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Juliet rocks on!
She hereby hops onto greener pastures or at least the one that involve a lot of greens! With Fresh Air Movies, Punjabi film actress Neeru Bajwa brings forth her own production house with claims of 'infusing a breath of fresh air' into the Punjabi cinema. "I eat, live and breathe Punjabi cinema. This is a very special moment for me. I am turning a producer with this film and making it for all the Punjabis as well as my fans," she is all gratitude to all the right people, including the legendary Gurdaas Mann and the contemporary Diljit Dosanjh.
Post a couple of clichés come a couple of promises and while it may be too soon to announce the project, she is clear about some of the things. "I am not going to be in every film that I produce. I'm going to give new talent and everybody else a chance." As for the one that releases 27th of June, there is "no title yet." She adds, "The film will be shot in Australia and Punjab. It's going to be a musical extravaganza." With Gurdaas Mann and Diljit Dosanjh for a star cast, perhaps that's a given. Breath of fresh air, did she say? While the Punjabi cinema has crossed the proverbial miles, there are many more to go. "I think what's lacking in today's Punjabi cinema is professionalism, passion for film-making and respect for women." She adds, "My vision is to make good films. I want more and more girls to come and see films, want to portray them." Sounds like something!
Jatt unplugged
Meanwhile, Jatt and Juliet 2, though a sequel, is all set to begin on a fresh note. "It won't take on from where the movie ended but has a fresh concept," shares Diljit Dosanjh, on the other things that are in the pipeline. He adds, "I am taking care of the music of the film." Coming up is also a religious album around Baisakhi titled Sikh Volume 2. While the movies may keep happening, "singing remains his first love," he shares in monosyllabic but no uncertain terms. Laughs Neeru Bajwa, "He is a quiet person but when the action happens, it's like somebody different takes over."
Director's take
Last but not the least, the legendary singer-cum-actor makes for an inspiring presence, a dignified appearance and a quick exit! Post Sukhmani, the fans get to see him in Punjabiye Zubaane. Shares Manmeet Mann, the director, "It's a story about professors and students. Neeru Bajwa plays an assistant professor and Juhi Chawla may have a special appearance." While there's nothing against the current trends in Punjabi cinema, it's time to move onto experimental genres and some serious issues. She adds, "We have a lot of promising directors like Dheeraj Rattan and Jatinder Mauhar. We personally always try to give good cinema to the audience. Comedies are good but overdose of everything is bad." Hope there's an influx of some fresh air. manpriya@tribunemail.com
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Exalted expression
Attired in a coal black traditional ensemble, his salt pepper hair might betray his age, but Pandit Vishwa Mohan Bhatt despite decades of musical experience behind him still retains the enthusiasm and verve of a youngster. It's this exuberance that is his beacon of inspiration, which makes him give 26 concerts in a month around the globe!
In Chandigarh for a SPICMACAY concert at Kundan International School, the renowned Mohan Veena player is as always, humility personified. As children chase him with bits of paper for his exalted autograph, graciously he signs it all. But then modesty is a lesson he learnt from none other than his guru sitar maestro Pandit Ravi Shankar. He recalls the time spent with his illustrious guru and how his guru would never allow him to sit on the floor by his feet, but insist on his sitting next to him. He says with awe, evident in his voice, "Imagine a man of his stature could be so human, so loving and giving…he was without a doubt an embodiment of greatness and goodness." Today his absence has not left any void for, "he remains with me." Musically much that Bhatt imbibed from his great guru too guides him. Of course, creator of Mohan Veena, Bhatt has not remained his guru's disciple but gone on to carve a permanent niche for himself and his invention Mohan Veena. Indeed, he does wish more people would learn and play his instrument. But there are quite a few like Harry Manx, besides Pandit ji's own son Salil Bhatt, who have made him proud. Right now he is not taking on many disciples but in the jet age where technology has made everything a click away, his DVD 'How to learn Mohan Veena' has become very popular in the West. All set for a 22-city tour to the US, he swears by the commitment of organisers and listeners abroad. In India he rues the absence of serious listeners as well as lack of patronage. "If only corporates like Ambanis who spend millions on cricket would come forward, only if superstars like Big B step in and present classical programmes, perhaps things would change." Indeed, he doesn't shirk away the onus that rests on the shoulders of artists themselves. He understands the need for classical artists to dovetail their programme in deference to the tastes of listeners and adds, "Lecture demonstrations that are an integral part of SPICMACY programmes should be the format for concerts as well especially those that involve uninitiated listeners." For the layman's knowledge Pandit Vishwa Mohan Bhatt is not just another classical artist, but one who has redefined music at each step. Back in time in year 1994 he won the coveted Grammy along with Ry Cooder for the album A Meeting by The River. More recently, he has collaborated with his younger son Saurabh Bhatt for the music of film The Desire that has won New Jersey award for best score. Besides, he has played for many Bollywood directors like AR Rahman and Vishal Bhardwaj. "Each experience is like a new vista that opens new doors." Standing tall at a point in life where milestones and awards, including the prestigious Padma Shri and Sangeet Natak Akademy have dotted his journey, there is no hunger or ambition for more. Only a desire to create more and anew. No wonder yet another instrument totally electronic linked to computer yet adaptable to technical complexities of Indian classical music is already playing on his mind.
A lesson in itself
Mithilesh Kumar Jha, a percussionist who accompanied Pandit Vishwa Mohan Bhatt during the SPICMACAY concert, shares that playing with great maestros like him and others like Ustad Amjad Ali Khan and Girija Devi is akin to a blessing and a lesson. Quality time
To the youth of today, Pandit Vishwa Mohan Bhatt's simple yet sterling advice is, "Spend at least half-an-hour with the eldest member of your family, the wisdom you will soak would be unparalleled." A grandfather himself he takes out as much quality time for his family as his busy musical itinerary would allow him.
nonika@tribunemail.com
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Health cycle
The wheel of time is turning a full circle and the good old bicycle is returning to the roads after decades! Not necessarily for commuting, but also as the new way to highlight your social status. The new machines are high-tech and well-equipped for modern day requirements. Equipped with multi-gears, disc brakes, lighter bodies and a host of features, the bicycles are getting back in the new avatar for this day and age.
Internationally branded bicycles such as Merida, Canondale, Ducati, Schwinn, Trek and Bianchi can be regularly spotted on the roads these days. From about Rs 20,000, these machines can cost up to lakhs. For the people passionate about cycling, nothing exceeds the love. “Although people have a choice for cool expensive cars, I have always been passionate about bicycles,” says Puneet, a businessman. “Not only do these keep you fit, the ones available in the market these days are endowed with many advanced features and look fantastic,” he says. “I ride bicycles every morning, and find cycling very invigorating,” says Harmeet Singh. “Rather than going to the gym and working out at the same place, I go to different places every morning, see the different hues and also keep fit,” he says. For some, it is a better means of commuting. “As the traffic in the city is rising, commuting on bicycles is much easier. As roads are getting increasingly choked with the onslaught of vehicles, bicycles really are a blessing at times,” says Sarabjit, a cycling enthusiast.
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Love on canvas
Love, in all its glory, stands best expressed in the heart's true desire to feel it and the intensity of its warmth came swarming through the work of the artists at After One's Own Heart, a painting exhibition organised by the Kadamb Arts at Hotel Aquamarine.
Sometimes, the elements of nature articulate all that love advocates and Kirti's paintings played brilliantly upon the shades of nature which were juxtaposed with everything that falls synonymous with love. Using acrylic on canvas as a medium, the Delhi-based artist exploited the reserves of nature, including changing seasons, the moon, which is known to evoke lunatic mood swings and the birds, which are indeed the ambassadors of love. Also Ganesh
Dey, a Kolkata-based artist, galvanised the idea of romance while plucking a few leaves from the mythological amorous intimacy between Radha and Krishna. The three paintings with a rather lucid interpretation of love was depicted in the works of Varuni
Sinha, who used thumb painting as a technique to weave rather beautiful mosaic of love. Art & women
An austere difference in ideation and execution of contemporary art was witnessed in the works of Aatiya
Kakkar, who drew the portraits of young women donned in bikinis. "My idea of romance is to celebrate womanhood and the strong individuality of character that it is marked with," says
Aatiya, a Delhi-based artist, who studied art at San Francisco Art Institute. "This is my first exhibition and I have made an attempt to depict an independent woman who is not bogged down by the shackles of pigeonholed traditions and cultures. Also, it is a protest that is dipped in the expression of boldness." However, the works of Parveen Saini stand aloof when it comes to technique and pattern. His paintings come across as a cocktail of vivid expression and a riot of robust colours that are typical of Indian culture. His paintings, Waiting and Dreaming Lady highlight the intense pattern work using acrylic on canvas. "I have attempted to showcase a woman and the roles she plays. If you look at her body, whatever she is dreaming or thinking about is splashed on her body. It's these little things about Indian woman that make her special in her own way," says
Saini, who is a lecturer of fine arts in DAV College, Muzaffarnagar. Though Saini has exhibited his works across the country, this is his first exhibition in the city.
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Signature touch
Talking of fashion, there are plenty of options for the young ones today. But the one who adapts theses styles to his or her own persona is the one who stands out. A student of Fashion and Design at INLD, Priyanka Kapoor sure knows what is good for her — Your sense of style? For me a stylish person should look individualistically unique and have a proper dressing sense, especially when it comes to the combination of colours. Latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories? My denim jeans from FCUK. Brand crazy or street pick-up? Totally a brand loving person. Who do you think is the worst dressed celebrity? Somehow I don't like Salman Khan's dressing sense. Which look would your prefer - sporty, chic or glamorous? Both sporty and glamorous. One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension… Weird hairstyles really bug me! Your take on accessories? I am madly in love with all kinds of watches. I am fond of neck pieces too. Given a choice which designer would you like to be dressed by? Manish Malhotra! What gives you a high on the confidence level? When I am dressed to my satisfaction and I am not at a loss for words, it makes me super confident! — As told to Poonam Bindra
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To your heart’s content
Ranjan Dibya February is the month of love as it heralds the romantic season of Spring. So we can match our cuisine to add to the romance around us. Here is a veggie heart-shaped delight that you can make easily at home. It's a deep fried vegetable kebab stuffed with mozzarella cheese. NARAM DIL KEBAB
Ingredients
Method In a pan, heat 1 tsp of oil. Add chopped ginger and green chilly. Sauté it. Add the green peas, potatoes, spinach, the seasonings and the spices. Stir it constantly. Remove from the fire and keep it aside. Bring it to the room temperature and make round balls out of it. Stuff the balls with mozzarella cheese. Make a batter using the maida and water and deep the balls into it. Coat it with cornflakes. Make a heart shape out of it and deep fry it. Arrange on a serving plate and serve hot with mint chutney or tomato ketchup. (Dibya is a visiting Goan chef)
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PC refuses to play a Salman fan?
According to the latest buzz, actress Priyanka Chopra was allegedly offered a role in Anurag Kashyap's short film that celebrates 100 year of Indian cinema. The role required her to play a Salman Khan fan but she refused it because of her friendship with Shah Rukh Khan. As a result, Anurag changed the script and moved on to make the short film with Amitabh Bachchan. However, the Gangs Of Wasseypur director rubbished the report and said that he wrote the script 14 years ago. "My script for Bombay Talkies was written 14 years ago and was always about Big B. Half the directors we have know it already," he said. In the mean time, filmmaker Karan Johar completed shooting for his short film with Rani Mukerji and Randeep Hooda for the same project. "Last day on my short film!!! Grateful to my crew and cast who have worked so hard to make this happen for me.... Never thought i would ever make a 20-25 minute film...as you all know brevity is far from my strength!! Cant wait to hang out with Zoya, Anurag and Dibaker during the release and promotions of Bombay Talkies....3rd May!!" he tweeted. Bombay Talkies, an ode to 100 years of Indian cinema, is a collection of short films directed by four prolific filmmakers—Zoya Akhtar, Dibakar Banerjee, Anurag Kashyap and Karan Johar.
When Karan stopped a funeral
Karan Johar's crew had to bear the brunt of mob fury for holding up a funeral procession near Bandra station for a shoot. Karan was shooting at Bandra station on Sunday for his short film celebrating 100 years of Indian cinema. As soon as the word spread that the filmmaker was in their midst along with Rani Mukerji and Randeep Hooda, a huge crowd started gathering. Cops were being called to get the situation in control. "While shooting, the director didn't realise that his unit was blocking the road to the cemetery nearby. A funeral procession was on its way and they were made to wait as a shot was being taken. The unit hands and the people in the procession indulged in verbal volleys," says an onlooker. The procession folk then decided to take things into their hands by first rounding up the production people and then Karan. It took the cops about two hours to quell the situation. Karan says, "Two groups in the crowd got into a scuffle. Things got ugly. However at the end of the day, we came up trumps. It was unfortunate but we managed to save the day."
Sonakshi Sinha asked for Rs 5 crore for a Telugu film opposite Mahesh Baby, which will be directed by Krish Jagarlamudi. Krish wanted Sonakshi to do this movie since Dabangg and was able to get in touch with her through Prabhudeva. She has signed the movie.
Shatrughan calls Rani a Chopra!
Sonam & her excess baggage
Known for her distinctive style, Sonam Kapoor has openly discussed her weighty issues. However, recently Sonam revealed some never-shared-before information with Big RJ Karisma Kapoor during her Big On Style segment on the afternoon women's show Big Memsaab. Sonam said stress of weight gain had started to reflect on her health and with a blood test confirming her worst fears, Sonam had no option but to shed weight. With her doctor's orders to lose weight, at the tender age of 16, Sonam decided to get healthy; she ate healthy, worked out and did yoga. It took a span of two years, but Sonam managed to shed the excess baggage and started her journey to become the Style Goddess that she is today.
Five tips
Bappi Lahiri has not been given the credit for the Naino Mein Sapne track of Himmatwala. Director Sajid Khan admits it was an error and will rectify it. The songs are already on air.
Surprise visit
family reunion: Maanayata and Sanjay Dutt
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Rohit Roy returns to TV
Zee TV's Hitler Didi will see a new track opening up with the entry of talented and versatile actor Rohit Roy. The actor who was earlier seen in Star Plus' Sajda Tere Pyaar Mein will play an intense lover, who has a past relationship with the protagonist, Indira (Rati Pandey). The character, Kabir Chaudhary happens to be an Army officer in Pakistan, a person who actually belongs to the Hindu minority in Pakistan. He jumps lot many hurdles and comes to India to meet Indira. We hear that Kabir might turn out to be Indira's husband (at the phase when she had lost her memory and was in Pakistan) and is desperate to get back to her. The guy has a great sense of humour and is a positive character. Rohit confirmed the news saying, "Yes, I am essaying a very nice role in Hitler Didi. There is a reason for me to take up this project. I wanted to break the myth that Rohit does not want to do anything on television.”
All in the family
Darshan Jariwala and Maya Alagh will soon be seen on Adaalat. They will be playing the role of KD Pathak aka Ronit Roy's parents. Manav Gohil too will be seen in a cameo as his brother. Looks like after many intriguing cases, there's a bit of a family dose in store.
A date with stars
Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster Returns' cast will be seen on Shapath promoting the film. In the particular episode, a story set in North India will be depicted. It will air on March 3, 2013.
Another job at hand
Stating the facts
The Tara Sharma Show— Ek Nayi Ma ka Safar-Season 2 will begin soon. At the show launch, Tara was accompanied by Rahul Bose and some of her friends along with their children. As the name suggests, The Tara Sharma Show - Ek Nayi Ma ka Safar - Season 2, is a realistic diary of Tara's experiences and adventures as a new mother. The show has an informal pattern and is often humorous as real experiences are recounted and demonstrated. Season 2 picks up where the finale of Season 1 ended with the birth of their younger son, Kai. Talking about her experience, Tara states "When I was pregnant and soon after our elder son, Zen was born, I realised that I wanted to get back to work but I didn't want to leave him also. So I racked my brains to think of what I could do and eventually came up with the concept of the show. Post the success of Season 1 we are thrilled to be back with Season 2." Season 2 highlights pertinent issues like the bond of siblings, the journey of bringing up a new born and toddler as well as travelling with kids to locations like London, Thailand and Cannes. The guest appearance of celebrities Konkona Sen Sharma, Maria
Goretti, Tusshar Kapoor, Vivek Oberoi, Jon Abraham and Madhu Sapre.
Matters of health
Of weddings and wows
Watch 13 lucky brides transform themselves into Cinderella as they prepare themselves for a new life. The show premiers on February 16 at 8.30 pm on NDTV Good Times.
Nandish Sandhu hosted a party to celebrate his wife Rashami Desai Sandhu's birthday and their wedding anniversary. Nandish welcomed his friends and family. Rashami looked lovely in a beige gown and was joined by Krutika Desai, Anju
Mahendroo, Narayani Shastri, Gulki Joshi and Gaurav Chopra. Sushant Singh Rajput entered with his girl friend Ankita
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Astro turf
ARIES: Your card "Eight of Wands" suggests that extra money is likely to arrive from somewhere. You will
start off in a confident, optimistic mood. Tarot message: Take time before reacting.
Lucky colour: Deep-red. Magic number: 40
TAURUS: There is breathing space now to get your act together and clear your mind. Focus on business because that is what will pay dividends. Family members are congenial and co-operative.
Tarot message: New offers
must be put on hold. Lucky colour: Creamy-white. GEMINI: Reckless spending will be a cause for regret. So no matter now tempting or urgent the purchase is, think twice before pulling out your credit card or handing over the cash.
Tarot message: Consolidate
your gains. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 52 CANCER: Although you have sufficient funds, stick to window shopping. Arrangements you made to meet with friends can change at the last moment. But don’t lose heart. Time to do yoga and meditation. Tarot message: Ignore minor official pinpricks.
Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 26 LEO: You will enjoy tidying up and sorting out all your paperwork into coherent order, which may involve paying bills or arranging for extra credit. Romance will be good.
Tarot message: Be positive; you can make things happen out of the most unlikely circumstances.
Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 32 VIRGO: Do not bottle up emotions and become agitated. Plan some fun and relaxation with loved ones; just leave stress behind. Influential people will like your style. So,
make the most of the day. Tarot message: Try to balance your budget. Lucky colour: Orange.
Magic number: 42
LIBRA: Your personal skills and style of working are likely to shine. A financial matter that has been delayed should be taken up.
There should be no special problems to deal with at home. Tarot message: Don't be dismissive of advice from youthful origin.
Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 28 SCORPIO: Lots of secrets and undercover scenarios can make for an interesting day. Stimulating and thought-provoking ideas will be
in abundance. Business will tick over smoothly. Tarot message: Avoid being hurried and over-anxious.
Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 64 SAGITTARIUS: Smile; it's a day when dreams come true. It may seem exaggerated, but if you believe in something with enough heart and hope, it just might happen. Tarot message: You will not get away with wrongdoings,
so don't even try. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 30 CAPRICORN: Career affairs can reach a triumphant climax. You are in an ideal job, doing what you have and showing the world just how capable you are. Your spouse is likely to be erratic. Tarot message: There are times in a relationship when it is wiser to be silent. Lucky colour: Silver-grey.
Magic number: 27 AQUARIUS: The card The Page of Swords reveals that you are noted for your resilience. Romance takes a turn for the better. Keep extra cash in hand to cope with additional expenses.
Tarot message: Spend time meeting experienced people. Lucky colour: Rainbow-pastels.
Magic number: 63 PISCES: You need more clarity and open-ness in financial or business matters. Creative work is favoured over mundane routine jobs. A romantic encounter is on the cards. Tarot message: Don't waste an opportunity by not exploiting a contact even if it is from your past. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 51
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The year ahead
If your birthday is February 15...
You will have to make changes at the work front to turn the events in your favour. Financial matters will bring limited gains. There will be good bonding among family members. It will be a moderate year for health. Smile - it is best antidote for all your problems. Pending issues become murkier and expenses cloud your mind. Make sure you have approval of others before you make changes to your home environment. Romance and socialising will rule your mind despite pending jobs. Some pressure at work and home will make you short-tempered. Explore new investment opportunities that come your way, but commit yourself only after you have studied the viability of these projects. A friend will seek your advice to sort out his personal problems. If you feel that you can handle important jobs without the assistance of others, then you are highly mistaken. You spend a lot of time focusing on your partner. Do some of the things that make you feel good; a little pampering will make you feel special. Your partner has been showering a lot of attention on you. The year 2013 forecasts that you will be blamed for the things that you didn't even do, but the major issue is that even you will blame yourself! Being generous is good but it is better for you to look at the brighter side of the events that take place. This year is going to be positive from the love, career and money front. You will be blessed with love in 2013, even if you have been deprived of it in earlier years. Avoid little fights and argument; enjoy the fascinating journey of love. Due to the pressure of work you will feel stressed throughout the year. There are chances that you will start a new business and get some profit related to foreign countries. Avoid taking too many risks, as it will lead to some sort of loss. Mood: A bit annoyed. Compatible signs: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn. Lucky colours: Blanched Almond, Black. Lucky days: Friday. Lucky numbers: 8, 14, 24, 48, 88.
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New releases
Film: Murder 3
Producer: Mukesh Bhatt Director: Vishesh Bhatt The year 2013 too will see a line up of sequels hitting the screens. First among these sequels is Murder 3 produced by Vishesh Films. Set for February 15 release Murder 3 marks the directorial debut of Vishesh Bhatt son of veteran producer Mukesh Bhatt. Murder' had Mallika sherawat in the lead role Murder 2 starred Jacqueline Fernandez and now Murder 3 has Aditi Rao hydari who plays the female lead opposite Randeep Hooda. Pakistani actress Sara Loren also stars in this film which is an adaptation of the 2011 Spanish film La Cara Oculta, directed by Andres Bair. Murder 3 is expected to strike gold at the box-office. Film: Jayanta Bhai Ki Love Story Producer: Kumar Taurani Director: Vinyl Markan Shot at different locations in Mumbai the film stars Vivek Oberoi and Neha Sharma. Neha Sharma plays a middle class girl who falls in love with a gangster played by Vivek Oberoi. Jayanta Bhai Ki Love Story marks the directorial debut of Vinny Markan. The canvas of Hindi films is undergoing a change with the new breed of directors making different kind of cinema. —
Dharam Pal
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Big deal
Yes, you read that right. At a recent function to unveil a statue of Yash Chopra, Shatrughan Sinha praised the filmmaker and his family and mentioned Rani Chopra instead of Rani Mukerji. So are they already married? Rani and the audience members had a good laugh at this.
No credit
It has been five years since Maanayata and Sanjay Dutt tied the knot. He is shooting in Rajasthan, so his wife flew to the location with their two children to surprise him. He was very happy with their visit and overwhelmed with joy.
Vindu Dara Singh has acted in movies and television serials but now he has turned a producer too. He has teamed up with Sunil Agnihotri for producing Savdhan India for Life Ok television Channel. "It is fun to make such
programmes, which help to bring out the evil in society. How women in the society are ill-treated needs to be shown," said Vindu Dara Singh.
Karan Tacker suffered from food poisoning three weeks ago but his health hasn't got any better as he had to shoot non-stop for his show. He adds, "For the last three weeks I have not gone to gym also and lost 3kgs. I have been travelling a lot and also ate unhealthy food. Weather change also has added fuel to fire I guess. I am eating very carefully now."
The wedding makeover show Band Baajaa Bride is back with an all new season packed with beautiful brides, dashing bridegrooms, radiant smiles and the tear jerking stories. The emotional dramas, makeovers, exquisite
jewellery, hosts Ambika and Bharat and of course designer Sabyasachi will make the show really special. 
It's the time to disco
You share your birthday with Shoma Anand, (February 16, 1958, Mumbai), who is active in Bollywood films since 1976. She was the heroine in Jagir and Coolie during the 80s. From the late 1990s to present, she has played minor and supporting roles as a doctor, sister or wife, in films like Hungama, Kyaa Kool Hai Hum and Kal Ho Naa Ho. She also starred in the TV soap Bhabhi, the hugely successful sitcom Hum Paanch and Shararat. Her stars indicate a long association with the small screen.
