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Riding on the crest
They didn't follow the popular path and they are not here as a matter of fact. They had their days weaved in confusion, they had to date struggle for a while, they had to be patient…till one fine day they showed up with their work and we couldn't but help notice the spark in them.
Here is the new brigade of the Punjabi film industry — a director who has the charts roaring with his first hit, Amit Prasher of Tu Mera 22, Main Tera 22, actors who can make you laugh and fall in love at the same time, Roshan Prince and Harish, actress Wamiqa Gabbi, and a character artist who created a place in the crowd, Binnu Dhillon. Successfully, they are stretching their road to success in the Punjabi film industry that swells by the hour! Direct line "I want to explore different genres in Punjabi cinema. I would also want to work with established actors and newcomers, bringing in many different facets," says the director who is working on his next project, a Punjabi film that brings in Bollywood producer Kumar Mangat to Punjab as a producer. There are many firsts attached to the man and his works. He smiles, obviously aware of the fact. "Punjabi cinema is better viewed and presented than it ever was. Likewise, I would want to contribute by diversifying from the usual style of making films," says Amit. Actor prepared Production point Female lead Amidst the big names in her film, Wamiqa Gabbi managed to get the attention and of course applause of the Punjabi film fraternity and audiences. Her character Mini was much appreciated. This pretty actress will soon be seen in a Hindi film, Sixteen, where she plays one of the three leads. "Punjabi cinema is in a developing phase and everyone wants to present their film in the best possible manner. This means a lot of scope for actors as well as loads to experiment with," says Wamiqa. jasmine@tribunemail.com
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Voice of conviction
Art is not about projecting your own vision; it is rather about envisioning that of others. The ultimate pursuit lies in the endeavours that have some credence. Theatre and films are such forceful mediums that leave a profound impact on the audience, but are they portraying the reality?
"Youths are a powerhouse of energy and should not be misguided. Punjabi cinema these days is glorifying the wrong aspects of culture and further, stereotypes are being reinforced," says Sahib Singh, an eminent theatre personality who is known for writing and performing in outstanding plays. He deems that cinema has a mass appeal and wrong notions are grasped by the youth immediately, which is detrimental. He says, "The essence of the emotions should not be lost in commercialism. For instance, love is a pious feeling and supersedes friendship; then how can it be termed as Ladki Fasana." He intends to decode these fallacious depictions and challenge the trivial thinking. Sahib Singh has already acted in five films and is all set to play a minister in the movie OGJ, which is an out-and-out situational comedy set to release on March 8. "The film has an evident flavour to it; be it the acting or the dialogues. Most importantly, the film is family-oriented," says Sahib, who regards the obscene and vulgar content of movies as a big hindrance in the entertainment factor. So does he prioritise films over theatre? "Theatre has been a benchmark for me and I regard it as a commitment to improve society. My motto is Satyam Shivam Sundaram through, which I foresee truth and betterment of society." He believes that common man needs a voice to convey the disparities and theatre is the apt medium for it. He has already acted in 125 plays and even directed some of the masterpieces brilliantly. Singh's diligent work has been acclaimed and won him many awards. Sahib Singh's written plays have been compiled into books, six of which have already been published. He says, "It is always better to have something substantial and the kind of issues I address, be it communal harmony, female foeticide, corruption, plight of Indian farmers or others, documentation through books gives a long-lasting effect." And what's next on your agenda? "Shooting for Rangroot is in progress and another five Punjabi films are in the pipeline. Looking at the current scenario on the security of women, I am also working on a play titled Kehti Hai Ladhkiyan." Indeed, when it comes to art, talent is all that matters!
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Punjabi at heart
Having been ignored by the Punjabi film industry for long despite being Punjabi in origin, veteran actor Benjamin Gilani feels it is a great time for the industry here and he is open to doing films that are designed keeping his kind of acting genre in mind. Known for portraying Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru in the 1993 film Sardar, he has also acted in movies, including Hum Dum and Game. Gilani was in Patiala on the invitation of senior Punjabi actress Sunita Dhir.
Talking to upcoming actors in the Theatre and Television Department of the Punjabi University, Gilani says in the present scenario there is no divide between commercial and parallel cinema. "Anyone who feels that there is such a divide is not serious about the changes in the industry," he says. Benjamin adds that he once worked for a Punjabi film, but could not do so later due to the phase of terrorism. "I would have loved to do more Punjabi films and we had a full-fledged industry then, but the decade of terrorism kept many like me away," he says. Regarding a query by a theatre department student, that only youngsters with a family background in films or those who are rich stand a better chance to succeed, Benjamin says it is not exactly the case, "Such star kids might get an opportunity with ease, but for them to do well and get established is something that solely depends on talent." An alumnus of Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Benjamin Gilani laid the foundation of Motley Production, a Mumbai-based theatre group in 1977 along with Tom Alter and Naseeruddin Shah. "Tom was my classmate during our years at the FTII and later we got together with Shah to form a theatre company," he shares.
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500 and going strong!
Dipika Samson couldn't be happier. She is thrilled about the fact that her show Sasuraal Simar Ka has completed 500 episodes. She feels there is a lot more to go.
How does it feel to cross 500 episodes? There was a hope and prayer that the show crosses a milestone. Time flew by and we are here talking about crossing 500 episodes. It is unbelievable. Initially, the show took a while to get audiences' attention. The turning point was when Roli marries Sidhant. Why does the show have so much melodrama? I get to hear that, but yet we get good TRPs. So, there's an audience that still enjoys the melodrama and the story. Doing it sometimes becomes tedious, but when we see it we realise how well it translates on to the screen. Your character Simar cries so much, why? I don't know. Only thing I can say is that she's an emotional, sensitive person but strong at the same time. Crying takes a toll on my eyes at times, but if people like my work it is worth the effort. Who is fun on the sets? A lot of people, including technicians, my hair dressers, spot dada; we all do a lot of masti. All co-stars have loads of fun. What do you think of competition from Saraswati Chandra and Sapne Suhane Ladakpan Ke? It's not scary. I look at it as motivation to work harder.
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Aishwarya all for content
Aishwarya says, "There are rumours and yes while I am in talks with production houses and channels, but I haven't finalised anything yet. Regarding films, I think everybody is looking towards Bollywood and I would like to do films but it's not that I am rushing into it. If I get a good script, I would love to take up a film. Having said that, I also believe that it's not the medium but the quality of the work that matters. I want to do good work regardless of the medium. On TV, I wouldn't mind playing a bahu since most of our female leads are bahus but I don't want to just play a goody two shoes. There should be more layers to the character." Looks like quality is the king for Aishwarya.
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Gaga’s million dollar aquarium
Born This Way hit maker Lady Gaga, who is recovering from her hip surgery, has bought Japanese fish for her entertainment.
The 26-year-old got the fish shipped especially from Japan and got the aquarium set up close to her bed to entertain her as she recovers, reported a publication online.
"Gaga said she'd had a dream about the fish so she had her team set up a massive tank. The whole exercise cost over 40,000 pounds, which is a lot to most people but a small change for her," a source said. The singer was forced to cancel her US tour last month so she could undergo an operation to fix a tear in her right hip.
—PTI
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Asin to tie the knot?
Asin is said to have found her true love. She is in a long distance relationship with a US citizen and the news is that she will soon tie the knot and settle down in the US. The actress visits her beau in the US regularly to spend time with her boyfriend. The 27 year old actress has not yet signed any films as she has some other plans in mind.
It is heard that marriage preparations are already on. “Asin will not quit films but she will take up films only if she likes any script. The actress wants to do more challenging female oriented movies than moving around the male leads,” informs a source. She was last seen in Khiladi 786 with Akshay Kumar.
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Theme for a dream
We generally associate age with experience. And if you think experience is required to harness your talent, then hold that thought! She is 15, the age when most of us are confused with the choices offered to us and the decisions we have to make in life, but Asmita Garg surely knows what she wants.
"I have been singing from the age of five and music has always been my sole interest apart from my studies," she says. But at such a tender age, when books are more important than lyrics, how does she manage? She smiles, "It is all about maintaining the balance and your studies and passion can be pursued hand-in-hand." Now, that is lot of wisdom from a teenager! But one look at this sober young girl and you can see she is one powerhouse of talent. Asmita has lent her voice for the two tracks Jeejaji Jee Ayaan Nu and Desi Maal in the upcoming Punjabi flick OGJ, to be released on March 8. "I have been performing in Patiala, so when the producer Sandeep Dey was shooting here, I was approached to sing for the film," says Garg, on being asked whether she was auditioned for playback singing. Asmita has already sung in two albums namely, Ringa Ringa...The Crazy Girl in 2011 which is her Hindi solo and Aavo Ni Saiyyon in Punjabi. She has also lent her melodious voice in the title track of the legendary violinist, Surindra Singh's album Paisa Paisa, besides performing in stage shows. But was it difficult to put forth the expression to the world? Asmita divulges, "My parents have been extremely supportive when it comes to music." She is all set to carve a niche for herself in playback singing and idolises Sunidhi Chauhan. "Punjabi songs are just a medium to reach out to my audience, but I like singing in Hindi better and ultimately want to sing for Bollywood films," she says with a twinkle in her eye. She further plans to mesmerise with her devotional album which will be released soon. Indeed, when it comes to talent, age is no bar!
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Need for speed
It’s time for the wheels to get rolling, only this time on a new route and at a speeding pace. We are eagerly anticipating a new tale of history to be left behind the resonating roaring sound of the tyres rubbing against the metal road. If you are still nonplussed over the brief description of the 26th SJOBA Thunderbolt Sub-Himalayan Rally-2013, wait until we unravel the details over the same.
The 26th edition of this rally, which is recognised by the Federation of Motorsport Clubs of India (FMSCI), will include two major categories, including Challenge and Endurance Trial. While Challenge, the extreme category of the event, is all about the high speed, the Endurance Trial is based on the time-speed-distance (TSD) format and is regarded as a more sober version of rallying. While elucidating over the event, secretary of SJOBA, Shivam Garg, says, “The rally will kick-start on March 22 at the Sector 34 ground, Chandigarh on a special track where the participants will showcase their driving skills. On March 23, the rally will be flagged off from St John’s School and they will pass through six competitive stages on their way to Shimla for the overnight halt. On March 24, they will return to Chandigarh passing through an entirely new route.” Examining the safety standards that are made necessary for the participants, says SPS Ghai, Clarke-of-Course, “We have stationed a FIV (first intervention vehicle) at every five minute’s journey, so in case something goes wrong, we get a warning sign. Also, we have taken utmost care to trace the track, so that a hospital is maximum 30 minutes away from the route. Moreover, we have made it mandatory for every contestant to wear a headgear and the jeeps are modified with a cage-like structure to ensure safety.” The SJOBA also boasts of a nearly perfect wireless communication network set-up with in-house ham radio operators, who ensure that any kind of help is provided immediately to the participants. The SJOBA Thunderbolt Sub-Himalayan Open Rally carries a total prize money of Rs 2,50,000 and is open to jeeps, gypsies, cars and bikes. The rally will be held from March 22 to24, and entries are officially open. Entry forms can be downloaded from www.sjobarally.com. The last date for entries is March 19.
Super speedster
Jagmeet Gill, who is an emerging champion rallyist, explains how SJOBA rally has an edge over other rallies that he has participated in, “I am the youngest member of Team Maruti and I’ve been participating in this event since 2008. The racing standards at the SJOBA rally are indeed tough and challenging to even those who have been racing for years. It’s always fascinating to be part of something so grand.” Jagmeet bagged the first prize in the various rallies, including Monsoon Ride, Mugal Rally and Raid-de-Himalaya. He has also maintained the second position at the Desert Storm Rally for over four years now.
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Suit yourself!
Fashion has a transparent way of claiming its territory, which may seem rather discriminating. You’d often wonder how the capitalist bourgeois, a class which stands well described in the Marxist’s ideology, has an easy access to all the famous brands and fabrics. Terrible as it already is for the middle strata of society, we wonder if there is any possible refuge from the melodrama over fashion and budget. It’s time to curtail capitalism, which is fast consuming the fashion industry and in pursuit to do the same, Anuwant Pahwa, has launched a brand new store—Vedic Belle, one of the pioneer brands of Samaira Textiles.
Boon to the handloom “We have stitched and unstitched garments that are available within the range of Rs 500 to 75,000. The reason behind providing handloom and superior quality merchandise at such low rates finds logic in the fact that we bring our products straight from the factory to the retail store in order to cut down on the cost. We have our mills at Surat and the weavers, who work with us, are making a running income by the virtue of this business,” Explains Anuwant, who is also the managing director of the store. It is indeed a small step towards revolutionising regional fashion industry, but a giant leap for the Indian handloom. Choose your pick The variety that the store encompasses is available at a range that fits easily within the wallet of a common man, especially the Anarkali suits, which are a raging fad among women. “The georgette Anarkali suits are available between the range of Rs 1,100 to 7,000 and the quality of these products is something that I can vouch for,” says Anuwant with an air of evident certainty. He further shells out some of the most magnificent fabrics, digital prints, embroidered nets, dyed georgettes, Pakistani suits, kaftans and crosia-knitted ankle-length pieces. “In our designs, the silhouettes are contemporary, but we like to bring in elements of Indian fashion through motifs or embroidery,” says Neeru Pahwa, Anuwant’s wife and co-director.
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Everybody’s cup of tea
The ever-perplexing quandary that is associated with the mystery of future intrigues the human mind and it is perhaps the same curiosity that instigates him or her to know what is unknown. Now, here’s an extension to your imagination that has translated into reality with its authentic Chinese flavour—the art of tasseography.
For those of you who have not seen the Harry Potter series yet, tasseography is the art of learning about the future through, hold your breadth, a cup of tea! “Symbols hold a lot of significance and signs are undoubtedly the signals that vaguely prompt at the future or what’s going to happen next. However, to my knowledge, I am the first in this region to pursue tasseography,” says Renu Mathur, who is also referred to as the shaman. After mastering tarot card reading, reiki and crystal reading from Dr Sylvia, a shaman based in the USA, Renu’s never-ending quest for knowledge intimated her with the age-old Chinese tradition of reading the symbols in the cup full of tea leaves. “The process includes looking through the symbols and patterns formed at the bottom of a ceramic bowl or cup. We brew tea leaves in a ceramic bowl and the person is then asked to drink the tea. Various patterns are formed in and around the bowl. These patterns unfold a series of symbols, which are studied and interpreted to find answers and solutions to one’s problems,” explains Renu. When questioned as to how the city would respond to something as new as tasseography, Renu shares, “I know that tasseography is a fairly new concept. However, I am sure that the authenticity of this medium will go a long way in its favour.”
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BEER hug!
Newly opened The Pint Room in Panchkula offers an exquisite journey into the world of beers… Tanya Malhotra Ingeniously preserving a supply of grains, our ancestors bestowed upon us a tradition of a crude fermented beverage. And so began gradually, a beer culture. Today, beer is a culture in itself. Adding to the culture is ‘The Pint Room’, which was launched in Sector-9, Panchkula, on Wednesday.
At the age of 49, Pradeep Gidwani, is in this business for more than two years now and has already set foot in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru. Why beer, we wonder? “Well, the answer is three-fold; my unbridled love for beer jelled with my proliferated passion and the desire for excellence. The question is why not?” he laughs. “We are definitely not a bar and we are not here to rock, we are here to chill! So bond over beer, the tradition must be kept alive!” The ice-cold beer off frosted taps being the major attraction, ‘The Pint Room’ offers a range from the legendary Trappist Ales, Japanese ‘dry’ beer, German wheat beer, Belgium Witbier, Stouts to European Lagers and Malts. With the range starting from a Rs 150 to Rs 800, the world of beers has just become more accessible! “We offer a wide range of finger food complementing the drinks,” says Pradeep.
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Too hot?
Roopal Tyagi aka Gunjan in Zee's Sapne Suhane Ladakpan Ke was shooting for a skipping sequence for the fresher of the year contest in the show. She skipped more than two hundred times and felt dizzy as she couldn't handle the heat. Her co-actor Zohaib aka Rajiv helped her.
Comical visit
A still from Diya Aur Baati Hum
New twist to Qubool Hai
Comeback as a couple |
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The year ahead
If your birthday is March 7...
This isn't a good year to sign a contract or enter into a binding agreement. Your personal life will light up. This is a successful time for you; you will be able to show what you know. Think before you take important decisions. You will enjoy with the family. Things will be fine at work. You will be able to save more money. Good health is indicated. It is possible that you will want to pursue a career or lifestyle that is radically different from the one your family has chosen for you. Dominated by number 7 and the planet Neptune or Ketu, you possess strong determination and will-power to fight against any adverse conditions with courage and conviction, but you need to control your tendency to behave in an arrogant manner. Your grace and good taste can be what gets you to the next. Don't dwell on what you don't have, for you'll miss out on all the good things you're blessed with. You will gather knowledge and make long-lasting contacts. You will have a deep sense of satisfaction as you will be able to do something concrete. You will successfully negotiate a great deal with a reputed organisation. Negotiations will come to a happy ending. You should avoid major expenses in September. Wait for a better moment and for now just focus on saving. You will enjoy a romantic rendezvous with your spouse. Children will lend support and be co-operative. Those who are unmarried may meet their life partner. Meditation and yoga should be practiced for spiritual as well as physical gains. Some exhilarating news from your children will bring happiness later in the year. Your financial status will remain quite comfortable but may give you nightmares due to legal problems and litigations. Minor health problems will crop up. Do not let this hamper your enthusiasm. It is advisable that you keep calm and don't lose your temper over anything. You will find enough inner strength to deal with a possible sentimental disappointment and get over it. Mood: In need of careful balance.
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Astro Turf
ARIES: Get real about your daily routine and make it a happy one. Meetings and negotiations with potential contractors, employers, employees and consultants can be productive.
Tarot message: You find within yourself a fountainhead of will-power. TAURUS: Your card is the Magician, so you are not likely to be taken unawares. Pay grocery bills on time. It is probably a better period for working in familiar surroundings than for travelling. Tarot message: At work don't hold back anything from your employer. GEMINI: Spend this perfect day with your sweetheart. Drop whatever you had scheduled and dedicate yourself to the one you love the most. Exciting new contracts emerge from chance encounters. Tarot message: You must share responsibility with others. CANCER: If you have recently taken on a new job or contract, make sure you negotiate all the specific terms and conditions. A greater work load is likely to be placed upon your shoulders. Tarot message: Don't take impulsive decisions in personal relationship. LEO: Today is a test of competence in your profession. Your performance is on public view now. Do not pay too much attention towards gossip about loved ones. Tarot message: You gain by being practical; don't be emotional. VIRGO: Sudden encounters with extraordinary characters leave a mark on your life. You are unlikely to forget such incidents quickly. Work and domestic duty follow a familiar pattern today. Tarot message: Reap rich rewards by being practical. LIBRA: Employment affairs will be somewhat unsettled, especially in the morning. Home and family affairs will be most enjoyable when the time comes to relax and unwind.
Tarot message: Do what
is right and watch your best interests. SCORPIO: Cash should be flowing into your account today. This abundance is not due to luck but all because of your hardwork. Long-term projects and contracts will be paying. Mental work will be stimulating. Tarot message: Focus on professional changes. SAGITTARIUS: The run of good business continues. It is a case of making hay while the sun shines. Once you have decided on a certain course of action, stick to your guns. Tarot message: You have to push to succeed and your efforts will pay off. CAPRICORN: Be sure to take full advantage of the good opportunity that comes your way. Singles are in luck and those with partners are back in the saddle. It is a perfect day for a clean-up operations. Tarot message: By applying yourself you can achieve success. AQUARIUS: It is a day for workaholics, which is great if you love your job. Income will dwindle and expenses can rise. Try to improve your state of mind. Enjoyment lies in the company of the person dearest to you. Tarot message: Focus on better to mitigate the bitter. PISCES: Apply for a job you really want. Do not neglect the daily grind by focusing all attention on your partner. Do not let too many people know what you are planning. Club and social activities are not favoured. Tarot message: Put your terms and conditions in writing. |
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Except for his family, nobody thought he would go so far with his passion and dream. Amit Prasher is the director of the blockbuster Punjabi film Tu Mera 22 Main Tera 22, which launched Yo Yo Honey Singh as an actor. Amit has numerous plans up his sleeves. 
Those who saw Tinka jatt in Yaar Anmulle couldn't help applauding his comic timing. As for Punjabi film actor Harish, acting is much more than comedy. With a theatre background, Harish likes shifting gears as and when possible. "I have worked a lot with Late Gursharan Singh, so I feel I have a lot of theatre and acting in my soul. People told me I had a fabulous comic timing in Yaar Anmulle and Burrahh; at the same time I know people cried with my character as well," shares Harish, who will be seen in Daddy Cool, Munde Fool, Vyah 70 km and an untitled film this year.
Punjabi cinema is testing different waters, actors who want to move away from the regular, script-writers who want to offer something new and line producers who ensure they get the best of untapped locations for shooting. Gabbar from Chandigarh began his work with West Is West and Teen Thay Bhai, is now associated with the best Punjabi films. "As the cinema is growing, so are the demands. A film is no longer about a few actors or fight sequences, it incorporates many other things, including the sets, locations et al," adds Gabbar, who is all set to produce his first Punjabi film under the banner, Theatre Army Films, along with HB Productions. 
The media circuit is buzzing with the news that Aishwarya Sakhuja is going the Bollywood way and she is also simultaneously taking up new shows.
If the latest buzz is to be believed, southern sensation Asin Thottumkal, who made it big in Bollywood after conquering South, is going to tie the knot soon. It should be noted that four out of six movies in which she has acted, has crossed the 100 crore club. The Ghajini star, for a long time, has not signed any film and is currently keeping a low profile.
Pradeep Gidwani, a beer enthusiast, who has launched various fine beers in India, is the man behind the show. “I have been in the industry for more than twenty-five years. While most of the drinking population likes hard liquor, I hope to bring in a revolution. To start with, familiarising the city with an assortment of beers is a mission I have undertaken,” he says. 
Sanjay Mishra, who plays Puttan Pal in Ashok Pandey's film Saare Jahaan Se Mehnga, visited the sets of Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah
Chashmah. Sanjay, known for his comic roles in films, had a hilarious interaction with television world's comical actors Dilip Joshi and Disha Wakani. As usual, Disha aka Daya Ben could not resist playing Garba when Sanjay Mishra started singing the satirical song on mehngai, while Dilip Joshi changed to tune into a bhajan. The film is a hilarious and a satirical take on mehngai (inflation), through the eyes of a middle class family from a small city in North Indian.
The Saas Bahu competition
You share your birthday with Anupam Kher (March 7, 1955, Shimla), who has appeared in nearly 450 films and 100 plays and is running an acting school. Although he made his acting debut in Aagman yet he came into limelight with Saaransh. Anupam Kher is married to fellow actress Kirron Kher; his step-son is actor Sikander Kher. The number 7 makes Anupam highly creative, affectionate, trustworthy and emotional person. The year 2014 will belong to him.