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In the centre of her art
“I hate being photographed.”
Strange words from a woman who is the central subject of her own photograph-based performances. But then internationally- acclaimed performance artist Pushpamala N, who was in Chandigarh for the National Art Week, organised by Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi, loves this interplay of opposing forces, of fact and fiction, of humour and seriousness, of playfulness and cerebral.
Time and again she goes back to history and tradition, cinema and other forms of popular culture to borrow stereotypes, only to knock down archetypes. Challenging known notions of art, even of photography, her oeuvre defies labels and pigeonholes. Be it in her Mother India project (born out of her preoccupation with the idea of nation) or in the latest based on Ramayana, the reference points both anchor her works and move beyond to make original artistic statements. So as she picks up three women characters from Ramayana, namely Kakei, Sita and Surupnekha, violence she agrees is the recurring thread. While she admits to her work being largely political and social, she qualifies, “not in an NGOish way.” Actually this MFA in sculpture from MS University, Baroda had moved away from her prime muse sculptures for, “my work was becoming overtly political.” Back in nineties, facing an artistic crisis the present style of her work happened per chance when Mumbai-based gallery Lakeerian asked her to create something on cinema. Since fearless Nadia fascinated her, she wore similar costumes and pictures were taken. Thus was born the Phantom Lady series that she worked on for two years and which continues till date. Moving in a direction where few artists tread wasn’t easy. Till recently “everyone thought I had gone mad.” Indeed, performance art by then was a well established genre in the West but she didn’t gravitate towards it by way of imitation. She recalls at that point she hadn’t even seen works of artists like Cindy Sherman. Today she finds little similarity between her and Sherman for Sherman’s work is more psychological and surrealistic. But like other women performance artists in the world she does confess to being a feminist. Actually, she has been one since she was 13. Even though her artistic gaze invariably includes herself as the lead protagonist playing varying characters in part real part fantasy narratives, a narcissist she sure isn’t. Narcissism, anyway, she feels has little to do with women who are conditioned to please others. Of course, at this point in life where she has exhibited at prestigious museums in the world and has received honours like the National Award, gold medal at the Sixth New Delhi Triennale, the Charles Wallace Trust Fellowship and the Senior Fellowship Ministry of HRD, she works uncompromisingly, only to please herself. And to engage the audience which relates to her works differently in different parts of the country. No the West doesn’t understand her works better for they can often miss the cultural nuances. Since humour is an integral part of her works, in India there is always a danger of her work not being taken seriously. However, with a large body of work behind her, today it’s not visual artists alone who acknowledge her immense talent but also the world of theatre, cinema, anthropology and cultural studies. But then her “fictional narrative” is not just a collection of photographs but a visual performance that has many layers of theatre, culture and history. Besides, she may have bid adieu to sculptural forms but even today her works have a sculptural dimension and a feel. Amidst the carefully created backgrounds both real and unreal she places herself almost like a “living sculpture” adding drama and visual interest all the while making a larger point most emphatically.
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The legacy continues...
It takes exceptional amount of mettle and spirit to steer clear of the slapstick humour, and double meaning jokes. Comedy, either comes cheap or it doesn’t come easy. Late Jaspal Bhatti, wedded the satire and cinema, fabulously well and came up with his signature school of humour. “We need not protest with slogans, our way of fighting vulgarity and cheap comedy is to make a good, clean comedy,” shares Savita Bhatti, at a press conference to announce the next project by MAD Arts. She adds, “Our next project is titled Paaji in Trouble, whose script has been penned by Jaspal Bhatti.”
While the script may have been penned by the late legend, steps in son Jasraj Bhatti, the director. To begin with, there’s the trademark satire intact. Shares Jasraj, “It’s a comedy on how there’s a herd mentality in every field and how current trends reverse and fall back on you.” As of now, there’s a trouble with the title that’s the moot point. The stark similarity with Akshay Kumar’s and Gurpreet Ghuggi’s upcoming Bhajji in Problem. Shares Savita, “This title has been registered in Jaspal Bhatti’s name for the past four to five years. For the other makers, it is just a title. For us, it is an endeavour to complete his unfinished project. I hope Akshay Kumar changes the name as a mark of respect.” While it may be too early to even allude to the storyline, the cast or the music, there are a couple of things that remain certain for the makers. Shares Jasraj, “The roles are not specifically written with anyone in mind. If the role demands only then I’ll be a part of the film.” And then there’s a promise. “The film will release in a year’s time. There will also be Jaspal Sir in the movie. That I can’t reveal how.” The show must go on…
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From small screen to big
Irrfan khan
The talented and intense actor used to act in serials like Banegi Apni Baat, Star Bestsellers, Bharat Ek Khoj, Saare Jahan Se Achha and even directed some episodes for his shows. He has even done theatre and teleplays. India's most famous and bankable export's first film was Salaam Bombay in which he had a cameo. He did some more independent cinema like The Warrior, Road To Ladakh and Such a Long Journey which made his a popular face on the international film festival circuit. His big breakthrough came with Vishal Bhardwaj's Maqbool and there has been no looking back since.
We love seeing him on TV and we love him in movies. He does not care much about appearance or weight, does things his own way and yet rules the hearts of millions. He is the new, flamboyant Punjabi father as seen in movies like Student of The Year and the upcoming Mere Dad Ki Maruti. Moreover, he showed his sensitive side in Udaan.
He was the darling of television and still is. The extremely fit actor has excelled in movies like Udaan, Student of The Year and Midnight's Children which is quite an eclectic mix of movies. He will be seen next in Shootout at Wadala. He also runs a security agency and provides security to the stars. Shah Rukh Khan He started his acting career in theatre and the television serial Fauji which was very successful. He also acted in Circus and more. He then made the transition to movies with Hema Malini's Dil Aashna Hai and there has been no looking back since. He took up roles in Darr and Baazigar which were turned down by other actors and made them his own, earning wide acclaim for them. SRK is one of reigning superstars today and he came from nowhere. TV is yet to produce such a phenomenon again.
Till 2011, he was just a VJ and actor on television and acted in spoofs and shows on TV. Within a year, he has taken giant strides and become a popular singer and actor due to Vicky Donor. He has even swept awards in the debut acting category. He will be seen next in Nautanki Saala and YRF comedy with Sonam Kapoor. His future here is bright because he is talented and looks good too. He has also become a favourite host at award functions.
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Following in the footsteps of big sis
There is no hard and fast rule to beliefs and yet, people indulge in them. Producer Krishika Lulla and actor Tusshar Kapoor did exactly that for their forthcoming film, Bhajathe Raho. The film title was earlier spelt Bajate Raho. We all know how the Indian television’s czarina Ekta Kapoor doesn’t move an inch without consulting her astrologers, her brother has very recently inculcated the habit.
Tusshar suggested a numerologist to Krishika to consider changing the spelling of the title. “Krishika as a producer is very flexible and has always taken suggestions of all her cast and crew as and when she got one. Tusshar told her to consult a numerologist and Krishika indulged him. And that’s how the spelling of the title was changed from Bajate Raho to Bhajathe Raho,” said a source from the unit of the film. Bhajathe Raho will be co-produced by Eros International and Multi Screen Media (Sony Entertainment). Directed by Shashant Shah, the film went on floors recently in Delhi and stars actors Vinay Pathak, Ranvir Shorey, Tusshar Kapoor, Ravi Kissan, Dolly Ahluwalia and Kamlesh Gill. This comedy is set to entertain with a new style of comedy — "revenge comedy".
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Hard to please
Arshad Warsi is all set to play his famous character Circuit in upcoming Munna Bhai film. He talks about acting, movies and more…
Playing Jolly LLB I am loving the response to Jolly LLB. For the first time, I am being praised as an actor. I am grateful to God. I am grateful for my director Subhash Kapoor too because he dotes on his characters. This film is riding more on my shoulders than my previous films. I hope it does well. Author-backed roles I feel only Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Hrithik Roshan have roles written especially for them. Even my best roles like Circuit from Munna Bhai and Babban from Ishqiya were not written with me in mind but I made them my own. I am not pleased easily. I will not do a crappy film even if I am paid handsomely. I need a script that stimulates me creatively. On Boman Irani He is a friend and we have progressed in our career together. He is a fabulous actor and I respect him immensely. There is nothing he cannot do! In shots, we are professionals and maintain that space.
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Fresh script wanted
Three years after the release and subsequent success of Wanted, producer Boney Kapoor has again decided to team up with director Prabhu Deva and Salman Khan for its sequel Wanted 2.
It is said that Kapoor has already sounded Salman of the project. And though Salman has agreed to do the film, his only pre-condition is that the second part of the franchise should be original. Accordingly, an original script is being penned. It is a well-known fact that Wanted was a remake of Puri Jagannath’s Telugu hit Pokiri, but Salman doesn’t want to touch South Indian remakes as of now. So, after Sajid Nadidwala’s Kick (a remake of a Telugu film) and Sohail Khan’s Mental (remake of Stalin), the Dabangg star doesn’t want to work in remakes any more. In fact, Sohail was keen to do a South Indian remake with Salman. No Entry too was a remake of the South Indian film. But its sequel No Entry Mein Entry is an original script. No remakes please: Salman Khan
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Colour therapy
Ashima Batish
What’s in A range of silhouettes. With the summer just around the corner, it’s time to experiment with cuts, drapes, fabrics and colours. Bodysuits should make an important addition to your wardrobe as they look stylish and are extremely comfortable to wear. Floral prints with a bit of sheer fabric added on the neck or sleeves will make for the best bet. Try graphic prints as well. Peplum tops with printed trousers is a great combination, a refreshing change from denims. What’s out Straight, simple cuts are not meant for the summer. Layering in any form is a faux pas, it shouldn’t look like you are still suffering from winter hangover. Stack all dark coloured clothes in your wardrobe and do not take them out before November. Colour count Stick to florescent colours, green, pink, orange; wear the ones that you were made to shun in winter. Wear white, it is going to be a favourite this season. Or, use it as a base for colourful prints. Party couture Wear a one-piece dress but don’t accessorise it with a lot of jewellery or a big bag. Minimalism is in fashion this season. Also, people tend to do a lot of colour co-ordination as in matching a red dress with red stilettos. Rather feel free to wear as many colours as you like. Leading in design We look upon Anamika Khanna for her vast experience and popularity in the industry. And we respect Sabyasachi for his experiment with traditional crafts. He is the true blue revivalist of Indian textiles. Dressed to the nines It’s Sonam Kapoor for sure! We don’t think she can ever go wrong when it comes to dressing up. On fashion industry Fashion industry is growing because people have started understanding the importance of dressing up well. People have started experimenting and the industry is respecting that by offering them new designs, new colour palettes and cuts. We are moving ahead and a few years from now, we hope a lot more designers will make their presence felt in the international fashion circuits as well.
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Spicy makeover
Ranjan Dibya It is a make-over age. So, when we give the everyday simple food a glamorous change, it does tickle the taste buds. Here we have beautified the humble papad with colourful and nutritious veggies to make a wholesome snack.
4 pieces of big papad 1 medium size carrot (shredded) 1/2 cup shredded cabbage ½ cup grated paneer 1 peeled and shredded onion 1 small shredded green capsicum 1 tbsp sunflower oil A pinch of turmeric powder A pinch of chat masala 1/2 tsp red chilly powder 1/2 tsp roasted cumin powder 1/2 tsp chopped garlic Salt to taste
Method
* In a pan, heat oil and sauté garlic. Add all the other vegetables, including the spices. Stir it consistently. Finally add the paneer till they are cooked. Fry till all the water from the vegetable is dehydrated. Remove from the fire and let this masala cool. *
Wet the papad, put the masala in centre and then roll the papad. Press both ends of the papad to protect the masala from spilling out and roll the papad over. *
Heat the oil and deep fry the papad roll till it is crispy. Remove it and drain the excess oil. Cut it in shapes of your choice and arrange them on a serving plate. *
You can serve with mint chutney or sweet chilly dip. (Dibya is a visiting Goan chef) — As told to Poonam Bindra
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Watch this melody
The digital show named XXX360 is an audio- visual show that uses illumination of lights reverberating with sound and mixes state-of-the -art multimedia. "The concept of creating images with music is different and with visuals to complement, it is easier to listen and understand music. It appeals more to the audience," says Serge de Laubier, French composer, who will be performing live and creating the spectacular effect at Alliance Francaise-36 on Thursday. He says about the technique, "I have designed an instrument called Meta instrument that uses a comprehensive software and has 54 sensors. The software named Metamalette interprets and digitalises the gestures of the musician." The concept is distinct and utilises joystick interaction that adds grandeur to the technique. "I like Sebastian Bach's magnum opus but will be using my own compositions in the show and I believe that doing something 'new' is always interesting." says Laubier, on being asked what kind of music he will bring into play in Chandigarh. But that's not all, when it comes to the 45-minute show...the images are cast in such a way that it transforms all walls, facades and other surfaces into the monumental video screens.
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Coming soon Usha Mangeshkar shot to fame way back in 1955 when she sang a duet with her older sister Lata Mangeshkar for the movie Azaad on the Travancore sisters, Sai and Subbulaxmi. It was a sister act and the song Aplam Chaplam Chaplai Re… became an instant hit and is evergreen still. Besides singing hundreds of Marathi and Gujarati film songs, Usha created a record with the title song of the religious film Jai Santoshi Ma (1975), Main to Arati Uratoon Re, which earned her a Filmfare award nomination. The city audience will get a chance to be face to face with the singer on February 22 at Tagore Theatre for a musical extravaganza called Old Melodies, organised by the legendary Mukesh Musical Arts and Cultural Society (LEMACS). According to ML Singla, president, LEMACS: “The concert will a tribute to the renowned Bollywood singers and music maestros like Mukesh, Mohammad Rafi, Talat Mehmood, Jagjit Singh, Mahender Kapoor, Salil chaudhary, SD Burman, Madan Mohan, Shankar-Jaikishan, Hans Rja Behl, Ghulam Muhanmmad, C.Ramchandra, Chitragupt, Hemant Kumar and others.” Amateur singers not only from the tricity but also from Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Uttaranchal will be performing at the event. — TNS
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Furry & fiery
Poonam Bindra
“Two kittens just strayed into our house one-and-half years ago and adopted us as their family. We lost one to a viral infection but Kit Kat alias Chutki( for she answers to both names) is my lovable companion at all times” tells us the owner . Love me, love my Kit Kat Very fond of chicken and vegetable Pedigree food Chutki has an extra craze for egg and the moment she smells it she goes berserk. Otherwise it is only a small quota of the kitchen but she will never go near it,” says Jasbir, a lecturer and Harshim’s mom. She adds, “She will eat only in her plate and when she is hungry she will sit near her bowl patiently.” We were also told that recently when she injured her paw, her self-preservation instincts came to the fore and she held her paw out in front of the heater till it was healed. Another very intriguing trait of this beautiful feline creature was that she loves watching TV and protests when it is shut down! Maybe she feels it is a companion. “I have no worry when Harshim is alone as Chutki gives her good company,” says Jasbir. Yours faithfully A little wary of new people in the house, she usually runs to her owners to warn them against strangers. She is very sharp to pick up sounds from a distance. As a kitten they had to save her from the dogs but now she goes out to ease herself and for that they have made a small swing door of her size in the gate so that she can go and come on her own. But as Harshim says, “She just goes out for a few minutes and then comes back.” Though scared of water, Chutki seems to be very fond of playing with a tennis ball and hanging threads. Her joy knows no bounds while she gets to play with a thread reel as it unravels. This little one sure has a special place in this household.
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Groom your garden
Satish Narula
This phenomenon is common now. The winter this year is still continuing and the flowering is delayed. It may be a disappointment for those who participate in the gardening competitions but in general, the plants are gradually putting forth vegetative growth. This will prove good for those gardeners who are only looking forward to have a good display, all for themselves. However, those who had planted winter annuals early this season may get at least some parts of the garden blooming and that will give them an edge over others. Clever gardeners had placed their pots on the roof tops to get maximum sunshine. Their pots are also ready with good flowering. Once the flowering takes place, it may then be shifted to any spot. Those who participate in the gardening competition know that flowers and lawn play a big role in presenting the garden. But then there are other factors too. Keep the walking areas clean and without hindrances. Remove the diseased or insect-eaten pots away from the gaze of judges. Remember one thing, a gardener may get away with a prize in the cut flower section by displaying the blooms bought from market but in garden competition, it is the actual look of the garden that is on display. One could develop some curiosity features like miniature garden effects, display of statues, creation of a small water pond with aquatic plants etc. Such features make the gardens complete and leave a lasting impression. While participating in the cut flower section, make sure you follow the rule book. Any deviation may invite disqualification. Also try not to display un-natural blooms like ‘green’ gladiolus as dyed blooms are not considered by the judges. Display the exhibits in such a manner that they face the judges. While leaving the arena, make sure there is enough water in the vase as some of the blooms sag fast. Also, make sure the vase is stable as mostly in case of blooms like dahlia, gladiolus, stock etceteras, the heavy head makes the vase unstable and there is breakage of blooms. (Narula is a senior PAU horticulturist)
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Limited Edition
Why did you opt to judge this show? I love kids and judging them for their talent seemed like a good idea. Their raw talent can be honed for the future. I did have a difference of opinion with other judges about doing mimicry, but you'll see that later on the show. Does the show aim at making child actors? Not necessarily. Acting in front of the camera needs a lot of confidence and kids on the show will also gain lot of experience, besides winning the competition. It will also teach them about how to deal with people, which will help them in their future. Earlier you produced and directed TV show Love Story. Will you produce more TV shows? I would love to, but I don't have a good story. Also, TV shows demand lot of time and for now, I am focusing on making ads and movies. What do you think of the current TV scenario? The only show that will work now is the one that is different from the others. Though the setting of the shows is different, but the storyline of every show is more or less the same. There is much scope for new stories and content. It's high time we changed the content of the story, rather than its look or style. Do you think Bollywood needs more child actors? Yes, there's always scope but the sad part is that we aren't making films for children.
Punjab calling
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The year ahead
If your birthday is February 21...
This year gives mixed results in matters related to heart. The start of the year, however, will create some differences between you and your partner. The second half of the year will be favourable; it will give you peace of mind in issues related to love. Horoscope 2013 predicts that you will get the love and affection of an old friend. You will also go on a pilgrimage. Your thoughts will be taken negatively by your beloved and family members; therefore you will need to safeguard your relationships. Keep yourself available only for the people you truly trust. You will face some situations where your friends will ditch you. There will be difficulties at your workplace too. Astrology 2013 is advising you to observe everything and evaluate all the aspects before taking up any task related to your career or money. If you are a student then it is advisable to check out all the details of the institution accurately. As 2013 is not looking very positive for you, you should avoid taking any kind of risk that will involve heavy investment of money but small business will prove profitable. An intense encounter will occur with a workmate in July. Emotions and issues that have been brewing beneath the surface for quite some time will come to the surface, possibly in a very disruptive way. All of your relationships intensify and you need to be aware of your tendency to act in a rather compulsive, demanding way towards others. Neptune awakens a sense of higher responsibility often causing guilt, worry, anxieties or delusions. Errors made in haste, speaking too forcefully, sharp words spoken on impulse, or accidents occurring due to restlessness and impatience are all possible. It is never too late to get a reality check. Take care of your chores before you have to be told to do so! Mood: Clear and enthusiastic Compatible signs: Aries, Aquarius, Libra Lucky colours: Violet, Salmon Lucky days: Saturday. Lucky numbers: 2, 10, 11, 14, 95
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Astro Turf
ARIES: This is an important day for your career. An unexpected guest will gate-crash. A romantic mood will colour even the toughest situation with a rosy hue.
Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid the in-built delays that come your way. TAURUS: The Ace of Pentacles will kickstart your day with energy and confidence. People are drawn to you; but do not trust them. This evening friends can disrupt your domestic bliss. Tarot message: Be prepared to make a compromise. GEMINI: This is a great day to get your ideas down on paper and start planning your next project. Do not allow people to invade your space. Anything that can be carried out in secrecy has more chance to win. Tarot message: Do not move in too many directions at the same time. CANCER: This is a perfect time for initiating a new personal project. Family matters can keep you busy in the evening. Your boss will be keeping an eye on your progress. Tarot message: Listen to your voice of wisdom. LEO: The Queen of Swords suggests a spotlight on fashion, appearance and charm. Do not allow feelings of frustration to take over. Newly married: adjustment takes time. Tarot message: Learn a lesson from your past mistakes. VIRGO: Five of Swords reveals physical activity and pleasure. Do not be extravagant and cut down on spending. Loved ones will not be helpful. Playing a sport will add a balance to your daily routine. Tarot message: Think before you open your mouth. LIBRA: It's time to begin new projects. Write a proposal or do anything that requires a starting point. Enjoy this evening with your spouse. Tarot message: Fitness routines and healthy diets are prescribed for your well being. SCORPIO: Confusion over priorities can cause havoc at work-place. Not a sensitive day for financial matters. Do not interfere in other's affairs. Keep your mind off the past. Tarot message: Remember perseverance is the key to success. SAGITTARIUS: A career switch will mean having to move out of state or going overseas. Business matters are well under control. Lose yourself in romance this evening. Tarot message: Don’t deplete your energy or resources on others. CAPRICORN: By the end of the day, you will be proud of what you have achieved. Long term investments may mature. Women: work burden increases. A Capricornian friend seeks help. Tarot message: Be honest to your desires. AQUARIUS: A special person in your life may seem aloof. Let him or her know that you care. Students: light reading will keep you busy today. Health problem can be satisfactorily treated. Tarot message: Arrogance and pride will not be rewarded. PISCES: Take this time to expand your social circle and developing new talents. You may be introduced to new people who are destined to become good friends. Tarot message: Versatility and a quicksilver mind will bail you out of a situation. |
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Making films
Ram Kapoor 
Ronit Roy
Ayushmann Khurrana 
Designer-duo Hemant and Nandita’s spring summer collection Kaleidology is about colours. Floral prints dominate their collection and one can clearly make out hibiscus, roses and tulips on white base. So, when it comes to giving fashion tips for the season, they suggest colours and prints again. Even their next collection is an extension of this one.
Vegetable chatpata papad roll
Music can make a difference...and when music is combined with images, you can indeed listen to the images and watch music...Puce Muse is all set to put forth a spectacular show that will amalgamate electronic music with visual graphics and create an explosion of creativity!
“Chutki!Chutki” calls out young Harshim and who do we see gliding into the room? A small ball of fur with all the feline grace. She halts, sensing the presence of strangers and then looks questioningly with big green eyes at her owner. As she settles down with a soft purring noise with Harshim, she becomes more relaxed and starts licking and cleaning her paws!
The changing weather has not only confused gardeners but plants too. The repeated climatic fluctuations have partially affected the flowering factor. The plants are putting up blooms but with no certainty. The flower shows are held on scheduled dates, but the die-hard participants are scared. Is my garden the only one without flowers? Apparently, it is not.
Life OK is bringing out its popular mythological saga Devon Ke Dev…Mahadev on limited edition DVDs. A refreshing narration, compelling storyline and brilliant graphics, which challenged the set norms in the mythological genre, helped fuel the demand for the show that traces Mahadev's journey of transformation from being a hermit to an ideal husband and a loving father. Starring Mohit Raina (Mahadev) and Sonarika Bhaduria (Parvati), the show, in its year-long run, has created ripples on Indian television. The limited edition set is a collection of 10 DVDs with 30 hours of re-edited and re-packaged content with English subtitles.
Exit time
On a Break
Artistic surprise
The return of Basu
A comic cut
Deepal Shaw (February21, 1986, Mumbai) began her career as a model, released her first album Baby Doll in 2004. She followed up her strong debut with Baby Doll Chapter 2, featuring many hit remixes such as Kabhi Aar Kabhi Paar and Rangeela Re. She made her acting debut in Mahesh Bhatt's controversial Kalyug, opposite Emraan Hashmi and fellow-newcomer Kunal
Khemu.