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Heart & soul
Yet another evening sky dissolves carelessly in the blue of the night, but the stars remain. It seems like the advent of an awakening, perhaps a stirring in the soul; nevertheless the realisation lingers…at the Government Museum and Art Gallery, Sector 10, as Navina Sundaram and Dayanita Singh decorate the grand National Art Week.
Portrait of a painter Navina Sundaram, who has worked as a political television editor-cum-reporter and a foreign correspondent for North German Radio and Television in Hamburg, contributed much to her capacity as a filmmaker while drafting an account of the life and work of Amrita Sher-Gil. The 37-minute film featured old photographs, diary entries, newspaper clippings, letters and anecdotes told to her by her mother and Sher-Gil’s sister, Indira. While the documentary was essentially narrated through Amrita’s old photographs, it gave much insight into canvas, the desiderata, which reconciled the baffling tiff between inspiration and execution of both idea as well as perspective. It showcased Amrita’s ability to season it with the most unconventional and controversial display of the stereotypical, which was synonymous with India, its tradition and culture. And she did that all with a mighty stroke of brush, while splashing the colours of her indigenous, strong disposition that was accentuated by her anti-conformist self. Love at first click Art photography has seen much connect with audiences across the globe, but what if it were to translate into a book of literature that elucidates upon a fine perspective weaved in a tale that defines all paradigms of creativity? Dayanita Singh begins to tell her tale of venturing upon a never-ending and much-enduring journey towards being a photographer while defining the intellectual proximity of her relationship with the lens, “My mother, when she was expecting me, found a few photographs of my father with his ex-girlfriends, ‘What a waste of photography,’ said she, before making a scrapbook about the same. Of course, she pasted a photograph of herself and my father on the last page,” smiles Dayanita. As her bond with photography was well-nurtured, Dayanita decided that she was irrevocably in love with the camera. The only prerequisite to pursue her passion was to grab hold of the next best opportunity that came her way. Behold the passes to Zakir Hussain’s concert and she was certain to frame the artist’s expressions, “The only problem was that I was not allowed to take photographs during the concert. So the organiser asked me to click Zakir at 6 am at his hotel while he was rehearsing,” she says. “Needless to say, I was excited, but wary of clicking a man in his hotel room. However, I did click him and must I mention the delight that rescued me from all the worry that concerned the cause,”
she laughs. With her wits in tune with her talent, Dayanita narrated excerpts from her journey of being a photojournalist and moving to New York thereafter, to master the art of photography. “I told my mother to spare the dowry for my passion—photography!” she laughs. She found inspiration from the works of Robert Frank, who gave her $10,000 to click family pictures. “Now those photographs hang at many homes across the world,” she says. When her most noted work, Myself Mona Ahmed, was published in The Times of London in 1989, she found a new direction as it started a long-term, career-altering project. Finally in 2001, her book titled Myself Mona Ahmed was published by Scalo, which covers thirteen years of photographing Mona, a eunuch, whom the photographer also sees as her friend. “The best part for me was that she (Mona) wrote the text for the book herself, dictated as e-mails to the publisher in Switzerland. So, she decided what was told and how, but as soon as other media houses approached her, she said it was all a lie and that they could pay her more money to get the true story,” says Dayanita. Her other works include Go Away Closer, Sent a Letter, The Blue Book and Dreamvilla, among others. “Also, ” says Dayanita “I still use films.” amarjot@tribunemail.com
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Telly-ing a tale
They sell dreams; they can beautifully and soulfully sell tears as well. They can alter your fashion statement, forcing you to refurbish the entire wardrobe. They can make you doubt your spouse; if they get nasty they can change the entire vaastu of your real-life relationships. They are the television actors, who live in the world of Gabriel Garcia Marquez and guess it is the audience who has to deal with their magic realism!
In Chandigarh to promote their show, Drashti Dhami and Vivian D’Sena of Madhubala Ek Ishq Ek Junoon (On Colors TV) fame, pour their heart out. Love reel life They can make you fall in love at the drop of a hat. Smile Drashti and Vivian. “I think every story has to have a love angle and Madhubala is set-up in Mumbai, which explains the mush factor in it.” As for Vivian, who plays RK in Madhubala, a character has to believable. “As a character, I have to appear real so that people relate to it.” Road to Bollywood With television actors like Sushant Singh and Prachi Desai getting into films, the future looks bright. Vivian is so busy with television that he hardly gets time to pursue football, a sport he loves. “Two hours of travel and more than half-the-day on the sets, where do I get time for anything else? As for films, if something good comes up I wouldn’t mind.” The pretty looking Drashti, however, is content with what she is doing on television. “I wouldn’t be able to answer why I don’t want to leave television; I guess I am too content with it. If Sanjay Leela Bhansali offers a role, maybe I will take it up,” she says. Creatively yours They go by the written word, but they aren’t the dummies. Shares Vivian, whose name denotes victory, “I improvise on my dialogues. Sometimes I don’t agree to the unreal and exaggerated things, which I bring to the notice of the team,” he adds. As for the leading lady of Madhubala, “I get to play different characters. I played a Punjabi girl in Geet and now Madhubala is all about facing the challenges of love.” jasmine@tribunemail.com
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Two good!
It's a see-saw of prospects that the designer duo Parvesh Chauhan are flitting in between these days; either making festive couture pieces or pursuing a doctorate in fashion from Ireland or even exploring the options of entrepreneurship. From celebrating colours through clothes to collaborating on the venture Schengen Pathways, a step-by-step pathway available to people wishing to set up a business, reside, live, work, study abroad in a country of their choice, they have their hands full.
An endeavour that Parvesh clarifies, "is not a visa consultancy firm," while at a press conference in Chandigarh. "As designers too we'd like to explore various options and branch out into different fields." Adds Parvesh, "Whenever we are abroad or showcasing in different countries, we notice that a lot of Indians have migrated without proper documents and are being exploited. I belong to Patiala, so this is my way of giving back to my region." They view the joint venture as a progression rather than an isolated step. "They might be born designers, but they are fine entrepreneurs. You won't see them at any frivolous fashion dos. They are out to become doctors and be on the faculty in some of the top fashion schools," chips in their co-partner, John Cooke, director, European Education and Industry Collaborator. Fashion forward From paying attention to detail to retailing the finished products under a prêt label, designing remains a business endeavour; for instance an upcoming exhibition over the weekend at hometown Patiala, Celebration of Colours. Says Parvesh, 'This is for the first time that I'm doing an exhibition in Patiala. That's where we'll also announce the venture Schengen Pathways." He adds, "I've always used 'real shocking nice colours' of Punjab in my collections. So that way I've always been inspired by this region. Even my resort-wear collection has had such colours. Whatever will be showcased at the Maharani Club will be one-of-the-kind couture pieces." Laughs Jai, "We don't know how to do the 'understated'. People cannot repeat our clothes easily at functions because they are so festive and noticeable." The collection will comprise long Anarkalis, princess dresses, draped sarees et al. Business of fashion It's been a decade since the senior-junior duo has been together after passing out of NIIFT Mohali; shares Jai, "I passed out in 2002 and he was my super-senior. We haven't even collected our certificates as yet." While they may be abroad during the fashion week next month, every four months there is a collection added to their design house that comprises fifteen to twenty garments. "There are so many fashion weeks happening these days that it has actually weakened fashion. Fashion is used to promote everything else except fashion itself! In many cases, it gives coverage but not business." As for the ongoing PhD, laughs Parvesh, "My father always wanted me to become a doctor. So here I am. Twenty-five per cent of our work is done." manpriya@tribunemail.com
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Lyrical notes
An interaction with yesteryear singer Usha Mangeshkar is the equivalent of an opinion poll. Reality shows, item numbers, award ceremonies and remixed music…her take on things as well as the comparative analysis between the era gone by and the one that awaits us. "We should come a full circle soon. History repeats itself and so does fashion. Musical tastes stand on a similar footing," in the city to perform at the concert Old Melodies, she is all hopeful and positive. "If today's generation is exposed to old world melodies, they'll definitely take interest in it. The avenues of them being aware of good music and lyrics are very less."
It's time someone mentioned the lyrics and the lyricists bore the brunt! "Lyrics these days are a little meaningless. For instance Chikni Chameli doesn't make sense to me, but the audience listens to it and likes it. We don't." Amidst a couple of tick offs, lies constructive criticism; for instance, reality shows. "For new singers, it's a great platform. At the end of the day, they may not get work in movies but they get a platform. There's no other way a common budding singer can make himself be heard by so many people." Amid the current lot, she says, "Shreya Ghoshal is very talented and holds promise." Overnight fame and crash courses notwithstanding, believers in the old school of thought would still go for a strong base and stronger values. "Base is very important. Some background and love for classical music should be there." And then she throws in some valuable personal trivia. "Our father would always tell us not to have cold water straight out of the refrigerator and also forbade us from having tamarind." Metaphorically, the four sisters represent the talented quartet in the music industry…howsoever successful the other trio may have been; it's time the questions on Lata Mangeshkar came rolling. But that's for another day! manpriya@tribunemail.com
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The foodies Jasmine Singh
Food….the word can create a galaxy of images. And one image that has become strongly associated with food is opulence! Indeed, food has definitely become opulent and so are the places serving it. The Pewter Room occupies a fancy corner in Sector-26. It is fancy that gets us started. So if your eyeballs take a nano second to adjust to the richness inside, just remind yourself that food just got really fancier. The Pewter Room which opened last year could intimidate you with luxury, but it is the food you came in for, didn’t you?
Inside outside We are talking about tastefully done interiors that for once can be a wee bit overpowering. People who travel and are fond of the word richness will settle in easily. With a seating capacity of 48 people, The Pewter Room has made a good usage of space. The place indeed has a fine blend of traditional and contemporary set up. The interiors have been done by Annu Bains, director TPR. Bring me the basket This fine dining restaurant serves a complimentary food basket on every table, which has an assortment of breads, dried tomato and two different kinds of dip. The view of the basket is pretty interesting, but it can be quite filling. This might affect and even delay your decision to order starters or the main course. Fancy food Perhaps it is the same set of starters that you find at every fine dining area; however this place scores on innovation by whipping up fancy-looking and tasty vegetarian and non- vegetarian starters. Duo of chaat (Rs 210) served in cocktail glasses looks and tastes interesting. Served in two different textured chaat, one served hot (palak patta chaat) and other served cold (dahi bhalla), it has the right amount of tangy flavours and a secret chaat masala! Bharwe mattar aur bhute ke kabab (Rs 210) is something you would have seen before, but here Chef Piyush does it differently. In the non-vegetarian section you might want to try murgh chuski (Rs 310). This will remind you of the chuski that you usually have in the summer. Murgh ke parche (Rs 290) and galauti kebab (Rs 390) are worth trying. Give it a thought Of the host of dishes on the menu, it is raan esphahan, a unique combination of various cooking methods imparting a characteristic flavour is what appeals to you. It is served boneless with flambeed in rum in a tandoor (for 590). Worth giving a try! Traditionally yours The names on the menu are pretty fancy, and that can be a deterrent while ordering. However, the chefs are more than willing to explain the dishes and its ingredients. Amritsari wadi aur chole ka pulao have the local flavour of wadis and chana, which are served with flavoured ghee and pomegranate and mint raita (Rs 320).
There are many food items that you can miss out for other interesting ones. Home-made pasta with saffron sauce with squid and prawns or with vegetables (Rs 410 and 380 for veg and non-veg, respectively) can be a wee overrated. Sweet delight Here is a section you wouldn’t want to miss. This is one dessert you wouldn’t mind rushing into. The dish is called The flame. It is lichi ice cream mixed with nougat (nuts mixture), which are put together in a chocolate case and then the rasberry coulis is put on top which is flambéed with cointreau (orange-based liquor). jasmine@tribunemail.com
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IT’S HAPPENING Mona
Ajay Bhardwaj looks for things in life that bring a message of hope. This Delhi-based documentary maker is going to present his works at Chandigarh Creative Cinema Circle’s Sunday with the Filmmaker at Lala Lajpat Rai Bhawan-15. With roots in Punjab, Ajay, who has produced and directed a diverse range of television programmes, right from current affairs to election analysis to game shows to corporate films, started making documentaries in 1997 with Ek Minute Ka Maun. “When Chandrashekhar Prasad, former president of the Jawaharlal Nehru University Student’s Union, Delhi was killed in Bihar, I thought of documenting it. This film captures the anguish and protest by students of JNU following the daylight murder,” shares Ajay, who has been a product of the prestigious university. Working on different themes, largely bringing about the voice of the subaltern to the fore, Ajay ended up making a trilogy of films on Punjab. Visiting the recent history that he had been a part of while spending his summer vacations with his grandparents in rural Punjab, Ajay revisited the same to come up with the three tales Kitte Mil Ve Mahi, Rabba Hun Kee Kariye and Milange Babey Ratan De Mele Te. The first one explores the bond the Dalits and Sufism share, the second one documents testimonies of the violence that followed Partition. “Partition broke the Punjabis into Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs. Yet, it is the transcultural exchange that the last one explores,” says Ajay. Ajay will be in Chandigarh with his works for a screening that starts at 4 pm at Lala Lajpat Rai Bhawan-15.
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Blues no more
Soulmate We will first attempt to colour your mood with the shade of blue, it’s perhaps one of the most exquisite hues on the palette (no wonder it falls among the primary colour band). However, when decorated with the strings of guitar, it establishes an instant connect with music and soul. Soulmate is a Shillong-based Blues band, which came together in February 2003 playing their first concert at the ‘Roots Festival’ at the Water Sports Complex in Umiam. Since then the band has performed many concerts across India, Southeast Asia, Europe, the Middle-East and the USA. “If, we didn’t have the blues, there would be no other genre of music,” says Rudy Wallang (guitar/vocals/songwriter) while adding, “We have Tipriti Kharbangar on vocals and guitar. Also, there are several artistes on drums, bass and possibly other backup instruments, so Chandigarh is in for a good surprise,” he assures. “We were the only Blues band to represent the country (courtesy The Blues Club of India) at the 23rd International Blues Challenge organised by The Blues Foundation of America, in Memphis, Tennessee, USA, in 2007. Also, we have opened the concert for Buddy Guy and Carlos Santana and we were the semi-finalists and performed at The Rum Boogie Café (Blues Club of The Year) alongside 150 other bands and musicians from across the world,” says Rudy. Soulmate has released two albums titled, Shillong and Moving On. Multi-genre delight “I don’t have a typical genre, so I experiment with everything. For me it’s all about connecting with the masses,” says Harpreet, a Kurukshertea-based musician, who performs an acoustic set while juxtaposing it with a loop peddle and reverb, depending upon the song. Also, Harpreet has a bag full of original compositions and he, instead of limiting himself to a specific language, sings in English, Hindi and Punjabi. While detailing a blueprint of his genre, he defines his music influences, “I derive inspiration from my father, who would sing frequently, but never professionally. Also, I love the music of Sushmit Sen, Fready Mercury and Dave Mathews. However, I feel that it is very important to be trained in classical music before embarking on a professional music career.” Sheer ecstasy Paving his way into Bollywood, Akhil from the Delhi-based band Nasha, speaks volumes about his future plans as he expresses, “Nasha is all about Sufi music that is served to you on a contemporary platter so that you can connect with it. I started working on the band about three years ago, and it’s a delight to watch it come a long way.” He talks about his first album and justifies its title as he says, “Nasha was the first song that I wrote. These days I am working on some Bollywood projects in addition to a track that I wrote as a voice of protest against the Delhi gang-rape case. It’s called O re khuda.”
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Say it with a rose!
A festival on a weekend, despite the ill-timed rain, is just about perfect.
And when it is the much-touted Rose Festival, it cannot get better!
The 41st edition of festival showcases 825 varieties of roses in a stretch of 42 acres. To top it up, there is music and the glam quotient. Starting with the King and Queen contest, the senior citizens blew off the stage with their fashion parade. “I am very fond of modelling and have bagged many prizes in the past with my husband Satish,” says sixty-five-year-old Ranjana Kapoor, a resident of Sector 37, Chandigarh. Rose Prince and Princess Competition was another treat with little kids dressed in traditional attires. Sonia Thakur, mother of twins, Akshobhya and Anandya, says “We remember our parents bringing us here when we were kids; we continue with the legacy. We are very proud to have got our children here.” Meanwhile, a giant cobra kite in the clouds enthralled the crowd. The 150-feet-long kite made from Chinese raw material was quite a crowd-puller. “The rain was a dampener, but we are in a high spirits as people have turned out in huge numbers,” says Jitender Pathak, a renowned international kite- flyer invited by the Chandigarh administration. “This is my first visit to Chandigarh and now I understand why it’s called the City Beautiful,” he adds. Let’s get back to the roses; from white, yellow, red to pink, there are many hues to soothe the spirit. To add to it are the exotic varieties of Dahlia, Namesia, Petunia, Dianthus, Kale and Geranium. Various arrangements with roses, fresh foliage, dry flowers and crafted bouquets as well as garlands added to the festive spirit. “It is the first time that we have come to the gala event and the colourful display is just awesome,” echo Aradhana Kumari and Priyanka Kumari, students, Government College for Girls, Sector-11, Chandigarh. And how can we forget to mention the Photography Competition? “The clicks were spontaneous, but have stolen the hearts of all the spectators,” says Jayshree, a resident of Sector-46, Chandigarh. While policemen took turns to maintain law and order, the cleanliness was appreciable. The second day of the Rose Festival concluded in all merriment with the presence of the famous comedian Rajiv Thakur. Nothing better than a hearty laugh to wind up affairs! Nothing better than a hearty laugh to wind up affairs! |
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green thumb 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 factor is developed in the plant, it may then be shifted to any spot for display. 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. Due to severe cold this time, many of the indoor plants have been damaged. Repair these by removing dead parts and then display, the judges will understand. They will know you have been a regular in attending to them. Do not make the mistake of throwing water all around to wash the paths just before the judges are supposed to visit. Let the visitors not look for dry areas for walking. Give them an opportunity to enjoy the look of your garden. 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.
(Narula is a senior PAU horticulturist)
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pet passion Poonam Bindra
“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! “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 milk for her. “There may be milk lying open in 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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star track Arjun Rampal is known for his well-toned body and his killer looks. The father-of-two is considered hot property even today and looks fitter than ever! He talks about how he maintains his physique. 1Working a sweat in the gym and eating right, keeps me in shape. It's all about what you put into your body, so try and eat as healthy as possible. Metabolism, whether fast or slow, makes all the difference too. 2Work out regularly and everyday or make a schedule that suits you. Spending an hour, everyday, on some sort of exercise is essential. We can all spare an hour a day for an exercise routine that appeals to us.
4It is fun to change your routine and regime of exercise because that way you do not burn out. I do lots of repetitions with weights and cardio and also change my routine every month. That makes working out challenging and interesting and you discover new muscles! 5If you cannot go to the gym, try something like dancing, swimming, running, cycling, volleyball, roller-blading, badminton, tennis, football, basketball, squash, etc. The options are endless.
David has become a cult film and the most loved part of it was Neil Nitin Mukesh's gangster story. The gangster, who was shot in black-and-white, is going to become a graphic novel and will be launched soon! We think that is pretty cool and trendy!
A leaf from the past
The tumultuous relationship between Rihanna and Chris Brown has inspired a new episode of crime-based TV show Law & Order: SVU.
Ex-lovers can write songs about me: Taylor
Country star, Taylor Swift, has insisted that she is alright with her musician ex-boyfriend writing songs about her.
The 23-year-old I Knew You Were Trouble singer, who has dated a string of stars
Box office theory
Ayushmann Khurrana has given Farah Khan the ultimate snub by turning down her Happy New Year. Earlier, John Abraham and Dev Patel turned down the film. Khurrana turned it down because he does not want to do
multi-starrers.
Ameesha Patel has given many hit films down South and she is the highest paid actress in the Telugu film industry. With her long hair and fair skin, she is a darling of the industry and the masses. She will take up another project depending on the dates available as she has to shoot for Desi Magic and Bhaiyyaji Superhit.
Midas touch: Ameesha Patel
Salman Khan and Sunny Deol will lock horns on Eid, which is most likely to fall on the eighth of August this year. Salman Khan has the remake of Chiranjeevi's Stalin releasing and Sunny Deol will be seen in Bhaiyyaji
Superhit.
Sonam Kapoor can drive an SUV but she learnt how to ride a bike only for Aanand L Rai's Raanjhana. Aanand L Rai provided her with a scooter with extra wheels. He was really concerned about the safety of his leading actress, as last time Kangna Ranaut fell off the bike and received injuries.
Clean cut: Sonam Kapoor
Tigmanshu Dhulia and Irrfan Khan were childhood friends anyway and now they bond over the PTA meetings of their children in school. Their kids are friends too. And the promotions of Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster Returns, further gives them ample time to spend with each other.
The cast and crew of Prakash Jha's Chakravyuh got together in Ajay Devgn's hotel room, in Bhopal, to watch the telecast of the Filmfare awards. The awards show was co-hosted by Saif Ali Khan and Shah Rukh Khan. They had a blast and chuckled and cheered all along! Nice bonding!
Playing a mentor
Hollywood star Angelina Jolie has reportedly chosen to mentor young actress Elle Fanning. The 37-year-old Tomb Raider star and Fanning apparently struck up a friendship while working together on the sets of new movie Maleficent, reported a website. "They became firm friends on the sets of Maleficent and Angelina has decided to take Elle under the wing. In this film, Elle really comes into her own, and they are looking for another project to develop together," a source said. Jolie recently gifted a raunchy coffee table book to partner Brad Pitt this Valentine's Day. — PTI
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chatter box 
Two weeks after returning to the reality show Nach Baliye, Rahul Mahajan and Dimpy have once again been eliminated. Dimpy mentioned on the show that Rahul did the show because of her interest. Rahul stayed on the show due to his comic timing. MOVING ON: Rahul Mahajan and Dimpy
Friends forever!
Former Bigg Boss contestants Payal Rohtagi and Sambhavna Seth have buried the hatchet as they shot together for Ram Kapoor's show Welcome-Baazi Mehmaan Nawaazi Ki. The episode will also feature TV actor Aryan Vaid and Delnaaz Irani.
Payal shared a picture of them together. — HRM
What an act!
With thousands of mischievous kids landing up at the auditions of Zee TV's India's Best Dramebaaz with their own unique creative ideas, judges Sonali Bendre, Anurag Basu and Vivek Oberoi are often left stumped, speechless or simply in fits of laughter.
While in Mumbai, Ameet Tiwari walked on the stage with an extra stomach! It turned out that the kid had come to the auditions dressed up as Peturam. After his cute act, which charmed the judges, the show's in-house peturam Anurag Basu couldn't resist going on the stage to have a 'tummy wrestle' with the little kid.
Return of the king
The buzz is that Kya Aap Paanchvi Paas Se Tez Hain will soon return on the small screen. Instead of Star Plus, it will now be shown on Life OK and the makers have approached the host of
the first season Shah Rukh Khan for the same. However, he is yet to revert. TELLY time: Shah Rukh Khan
Good going
The actor is on cloud nine as he has recently bagged an international project, Sher Singh Rana's, The End of Bandit Queen. The movie is based on the real life of Sher Singh Rana, the man who was accused of assassinating Bandit Queen, Phoolan
Devi.
After her hit show on Star Plus Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon, Sanaya Irani is in demand. Many makers are in talks with her for a new show. Apparently, she is in talks for a show on Star Plus, Life Ok and Sony.
As per the source, hit reality show Indian Idol will return to television but in a new avatar. Instead of grown ups it will have kids as participants. Music directors Vishal and Shekhar will judge the show and a third judge is still to be finalised. It will be on air in April on Sony. |
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Astro turf
ARIES: Avoid getting involved with demanding social issues. Minor pinpricks will provoke you today. Factory workers will cause a number of delays at work. Tarot message: Empty promises are certain, therefore try to put your terms and conditions in writing. Lucky colour: Pomegranate red.
Magic number: 32
TAURUS: Your card Four of Wands promises an excellent day. Fatigue? Monotony? Take a break. Do not feel guilty about taking time out to look after your well-being, both mental and physical.
Tarot message: Delays are the only obstacle in your way to success. Lucky
colour: Ebony. Magic number: 42 GEMINI: Charm, diplomacy, respect and cooperation are far better attributes to employ in dealing with people if you want positive results. Tendencies for manipulation or revenge should be controlled. Tarot message: Do what is right and watch your best interests.
Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 65 CANCER: Be prepared for multiple invitations to social events. Turn your attention to jobs that gives you an opportunity to make the best use of your intellect. Tarot message: Don't be dismissive of advice from youthful origin. Lucky colour: Royal blue.
Magic number: 36 LEO: Doing a spell of overtime or catching up with work at home will help you pay the bills. Now is the time to distinguish clearly between your wants and needs. Tarot message: Beware of depleting your energy or resources on others. Lucky colour: Cream.
Magic number: 33 VIRGO: A healthy competitive instinct can be harnessed for greater accomplishment. Stick to what you know and do your best. There may be trouble brewing in the family. Tarot message: Versatility and a quicksilver mind will bail you out of a situation.
Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 64
LIBRA: An urgent demand or dealing with a crisis are possible reasons for being dragged back to the workplace today. Make the best of it by doing what must be done quickly and effectively. Tarot message: You find within yourself a fountainhead of a will power.
Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 24 SCORPIO: Give a serious thought to your business today. Decisions that need to be made regarding your career should not be put off. There is a danger of some minor injury. Tarot message: Focus on the better to mitigate the bitter.
Lucky colour: Silver grey. Magic number: 54 SAGITTARIUS: A major domestic purchase can be made with confidence. Be patient, even though you want it immediately. Students: you can be successful in your written tests. Love life suffers due to family problems. Tarot message: Take limited risks with your capital. Lucky colour: Sea green.
Magic number: 60 CAPRICORN: Put your knowledge into practice or learn how to do something better. Working women: be careful while dealing with clients. Children will enjoy the company of their parents. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid the in-built delays that come your way. Lucky colour: Peacock green.
Magic number: 29 AQUARIUS: Your card is Fortune, so this will be a good day on the financial front. Try your luck at a range of speculative possibilities. Women between the age group of 40-45: take care of your health. Tarot message: Use careful judgment in handling issues involving property. Lucky colour: White.
Magic number: 61 PISCES: Schedule a group meeting today. They can be both productive and enjoyable. Selling big goals seems unrealistic. If you aim for what you really want, it just might happen. Tarot message: Yet work could pose certain minor difficulties but don't worry.
Lucky colour: Rainbow pastels. Magic number: 55
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The year ahead
If your birthday is February 24...
With Jupiter blessing all your personal financial endeavours for several months to come, this is the perfect time to start a home business. Working on behalf of your partner will strengthen your relationship. You will easily be able to give your personal opinion on a tricky subject. People around you will appreciate your understanding, especially if you remain moderate. A stubborn attitude would not make you sound convincing. You're quite innovative and creative; working as part of a team will be rewarding. You especially enjoy bantering with the dreamy idealists. While you admire their vision, you never fail to insist on finding a practical use for ideas. Together, you can develop a product or service that is both useful and enjoyable. You'll be very excited by a situation that is stimulating from the intellectual point of view. Some investments can also go awry and unexpected expenses can crop up. It is the opportune time to search for innovative ways of doing business; anything you begin now is likely to be profitable. You will also find new opportunities for extra work, which will help to juice up your bank account. Past mistakes or unethical actions, particularly those dealing with monetary indiscretions, can come back to haunt you now. Areas or relationships in which you have misused authority and control can cause distress. Your shrewdness about delayed gratification stands you in good stead. You face strong opposition against your approach and will waste energy if you do what is being expecting. Matters related to love or career will prosper. However, your family can let you down. You are moving ahead in your career and must focus on it completely. You will attain respect and fame due to the new steps that you are going to take. You are an understanding person, which will help your relationships. Your sources of income will increase, which means the year is positive in this regard. Monetary investments are not advisable. Mood: Upset till March. Compatible signs: Pisces, Aquarius, Leo. Lucky colours: Brown. Lucky days: Sunday. Lucky numbers: 2, 12, 19, 22, 29.
You share your birthday with Pooja Bhatt (February 24, 1972, Mumbai), the daughter of director Mahesh Bhatt. Pooja made her acting debut with Daddy in 1989 at the age of seventeen. Her well-known films during the 1990s included Sadak (1991), Junoon (1992), Dil Hai Ki Manta Nahin (1991), Tamanna (1996), a super-hit and multi-starrer Border (1997) and Zakhm (1998). Her most notable film though was Chaahat (1996) where she starred alongside Shah Rukh Khan, Naseeruddin Shah and Anupam Kher.
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No love lost 
Here’s a set of musicians attempting to recap the tale of the Bagpiper who managed to hypnotise the mice out of the town by the sheer potency of his musical genius. Only this time, the musicians at Bella Vista are planning to drive away the worries and boredom away, instead of the mice. Spare the exaggeration that follows with the description of their talent, but had the words been enough, would we ever need music?
On-the-spot painting competition
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.
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. 
3Fitness is not about bulging muscles. I do not lift heavy weights because I do not want bulging muscles. I prefer light weights and more repetitions. 
The show has released a promotional video for its upcoming episode titled Funny Valentine, which tells the story of a singer who was beaten by her hip-hop star boyfriend and yet remains inexplicably drawn to him, reported a publication. Though the episode is not officially based on the singers' relationship, it tells us a story that seems to have been inspired by the 2009 episode in their lives, when Brown physically assaulted Rihanna. The episode takes the NBC series back to its "ripped from the headlines" roots. The show has a major twist in the end to avoid the parallel being drawn between the celebrity couple and the fictional episode. It shows that the male star, who resembles Chris, is murdered. — PTI
including One Direction heartthrob Harry Styles, John Mayer and Jake Gyllenhaal, is well known for pouring her heartbreak into the lyrics of her songs, reported a magazine. "If I'm going to write songs about my exes, they can write songs about me. That's how it works. I'm not going to complain about it. I'm not going to sit there and say, 'I'm the only one who can write songs about this relationship.' It's fair game," Swift said. The singer's latest chart-topping album, Red, is largely thought to feature songs about Jarhead actor Gyllenhaal, 32, while I knew You Were Trouble is about her first split from Styles. — PTI
Seth and Rohtagi were last seen together during the second season of reality show Bigg Boss where they locked horns and had an ugly fight on screen. However, things seem to have changed and for better.
Popularly known for his role in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, television and movie actor Aman Verma has done a fairly good job on the Indian television. In the initial days of his career he essayed varied yet incredible roles and was also known for his energetic anchoring in a number of reality shows.
