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The stuff dreams are made of
In the hectic pace of life when ambitions soar high and competitiveness rules, who’s got the time and luxury to sleep? Well, Sona Spa gives the option of a sleep-worker — as you work, the sleep-worker rests on your behalf and also dreams! Here is an interesting take on dreams coming from Makarand Deshpande’s latest film. Dreams have been a theme that he has been working on for more than two decades now. Sona Spa, a play written by Makarand, echoed in the audience and from there on he decided to turn it into a film. This actor, director, producer and theatre person’s reputation preceded him and in no time, he had the production house backing and none but Naseeruddin Shah to play Baba Dayanand! Turning a play into a film is no mean task, but Makarand is happy he could do it. In love with theatre, for the film he needed to discipline himself. “Films are a very effective medium, especially for the ‘mind’ stories. Only one cannot get creative each day of a film schedule; it is only theatre that gives you the option,” says Makarand, who emphasises how a director just cannot escape at any given point of time. Another high of making this film was directing Naseeruddin Shah. Working with him is a two-way process; something that keeps one on the edge always, reveals Makarand. “Naseer has his own way of working. He is quiet soon after getting the lines and does not like to be disturbed. Once he is out, he asks you what you want. Based on the input, he gives you three or four options and asks you to choose. He is also judging you at the same time. And, boy! He can create wonders with his voice. He can modulate that it so well that it can change the scene completely.” Quiz Makarand on his hair that give an eccentric touch to the characters he plays (remember Yuh hi chala chal in Swadesh?) and he laughs. “I have never taken acting in films as a career option, so never bothered about looks or hair. But I do assume that I get more offers because of my hair than my acting prowess.” Theatre remains Makarand’s first love and the coming weekend he is opening Jawab, a pantomime on women’s existence and if there are any answers to their plight, at the Prithvi Theatre in Mumbai. He has also signed another film with the same production house that backs Sona Spa called Putana. Sona Spa hits the screens on March 22. mona@tribunemail.com
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Time to learn How do you tackle a situation where you are thrown into a bunch of ‘unmotivated’ young children as a parent or teacher? Well, self-motivation is one of the keys to work out things in a positive manner! Marie Delaney, an educational psychotherapist, addressed the issue with school teachers at a workshop organised by the British Council in Chandigarh on Thursday. Two decades into the profession, Marie has worked extensively with school leavers, anxious parents and educators. ‘Unmotivated’ is a tag we associate with students. Marie offers the reasons and solutions. “Unmotivated is another tag that shows we are judging them. Maybe the child does not find learning of use or there is no positive environment to learn,” she offers. Herein comes handy Marie’s training in neuro-linguistic programming and educational psychotherapy. Currently based in Cork, Ireland, she deals with early school leavers while also conducting various workshops around the globe. One big challenge that she sees teachers facing is providing individual attention, but then there are ways to deal with that. “One needs to make students responsible for their own learning; not only it is more effective but also takes the pressure off the teacher.” Self-motivation is what Marie stresses on. As for her motivation, she banks on her friends who are working in different environments. ‘Awareness’ is what all of us need to develop better communication both inside and outside the classroom, in both personal and professional relationships. “I always take out time to sit back and reflect as well as meditate in this rushed up life.” If creative writing is her new hobby (she already has educational publications to her credit), she is also working on the emotional quotient, making her and those around value and enjoy life more. That so much makes sense in Ireland, which is reeling under fierce economic depression at the moment. Her first visit to India has been rushed; in and out of workshops and conferences, but Marie is happy. “It gives me a chance to engage with real teachers,” quips Marie, who finds her job as much a learning experience as teaching!
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Golden cut
A decade in the fashion industry sounds good for someone who already retails from as many as thirty-five boutiques spanning across France, Greece, Italy, Spain, Japan, Singapore, United Kingdom and the middle-eastern countries. Ever since she debuted on the national stage in the fledgling hi-five category in 2007, designer Pallavi Mohan literally took fashion as seriously as a fever! However, a day before the day two of ongoing Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week Autumn Winter 2013, she sticks to the philosophy of her label, Not So Serious.
“There’s nothing much you can do a day before the fashion show. By this time, everything that ought to have been done is generally done,” she laughs and takes a breather, just a day before the event and moves on to other obligations. “I just keep myself cool and not get anxious. This is the time to invite all your friends as well as family.” Even amidst a five-day event and the entire fraternity, where being seen and written about, is the only way out, she doesn’t give into the fashion politics. “There are no front rows for my shows. Everybody who comes to my show, whether buyers, family, audience or friends, they are all important. I don’t believe in the front row concept.” To make things fresh, there’s no showstopper either. “I want my clothes to grab all the limelight and speak for themselves because that is what the event is all about — promoting fashion and letting the outfits take over.” Taking the cue, we let her collection All That Glitters Is Gold, do the talking. The collection, as the name suggests, is strongly influenced by the precious and lustrous metals. There is a whole structured look about the garments, in sync with the winter philosophy. “During summer, we all want to wear flowing, easy garments. But since this collection is for winter, so it’s very structured.” She adds, “We’ve used a lot of gold and there are fabrics like silk organza, silk jacquards.” As for the silhouettes, she adds, “There are pencil-fitted skirts, trousers, long dresses and quilted trousers.” The colours take a detour from the label’s characteristic “stylish and fun” philosophy. “This is for the first time that we’ve used such colours. They are all dark like navy blue, beige, maroon and black.” The designs mark a seminal shift from her previous playful collections. The first part of the show comprise daywear styles fashioned from silk organza and stingray texture crystal. She adds, “Sophisticated day dress with metallic yarn embroideries and sheet foiling are perfect against the cold weather.” Having studied art at the Camberwell College of Art and Design, London, and followed by a degree in Textile Design from the Chelsea College of Art and Design, fashion was waiting to happen. “I studied art and textile designing but never fashion.” It just happened and the rest is history. She adds, “When I compare the event to back then, the newer crop of designers is really talented. Their designs are quirky and edgy. Seeing their energy, you get a push,” she signs off. manpriya@tribunemail.com
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Get wowed
Are you getting the budget blues? Fear no more, KFC is here to help you out! Introducing the new KFC WOW menu, packed with offerings such as the potato krisper, krushers lime-soda, chicken shotz and twin soft serves for just Rs 25!
The potato krisper is a crispy potato patty with lots of veggies, topped with a tangy sauce and served up in a soft, warm bun. It's tangy, crispy awesomeness! Wash it down with the all new krusher lime soda. Also priced at Rs 25 are two more exciting offerings—the crunchy and juicy chicken shotz, and a double serve of the curvalicious KFC soft twirl. The KFC veg and non-veg meal combos at Rs 55 and Rs 69! —TNS
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TRENDSETTER
They say "Be not too early in fashion, nor too long out of it, nor any time in the extremes of it". So truly said! Turning around the trends to suit one's persona seems to be the sure-shot way to be noticed. With a very tall build, Gurmahar Aulakh, a medical student, finds it difficult to source apparel here.
Your sense of style? Any one who radiates a sense of awe can be termed as stylish. Otherwise, the proper selection of colours and suitability to the occasion is what I generally admire. Latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories… My Armani aviators and Adidas Porche shoes. Brand crazy or street pick-up? Can't do without brands and that too only foreign ones. Who would be your style icon? Tom Cruise for sure! Who do you think is the worst-dressed celebrity? Govinda. Which look would your prefer - sporty, chic or glamorous? Sporty would do for me. One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension… Wearing pants with glitter and bling. Your take on accessories? Accessories are nice, especially when you have to show your attitude and intimidate others around you! Given a choice which designer would you like to be dressed by? I am a die-hard Armani fan. What gives you a high on the confidence level? The belief that I am better and when I am wearing my favourite combination black with a touch of red, make me feel good and confident. — As told to Poonam Bindra
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Time to sleep tight
Dr Deepak Bhasin
It's not just the quantity of sleep that counts, but also the quality. To feel fully rested, your brain must go through five phases of sleep. In addition, you need to spend enough time in each phase. Anything that interrupts these phases contributes to your fatigue. Sleep is important, as you know. The lack of sleep makes it hard to function during the day. On the World Sleep Day, let's look at the factors that contribute to poor sleep include: Changes in inner clock Your body's circadian rhythm responds to light-dark cycles. When darkness falls, the brain's pineal gland secretes melatonin, which causes drowsiness. As we get older, this inner clock changes. For teenagers it is set to "late to bed, late to rise". After years of sleep experience, we are more likely to fall asleep at dusk and wake up at dawn. There are many times when your alarm clock and your inner clock simply don't correspond. For those who work at night, this becomes a chronic issue. It's this same lack of synchronicity that causes jet lag and "jet daze" when you fly across time zones. Bad influence Many foods and beverages contain hidden caffeine. The half-life of caffeine is 7.5 hours, so beware of that late-afternoon latte, which can perk you up well beyond bedtime. Wine with dinner may relax you, but it also interrupts the sleep cycle and causes midnight wakefulness. Cigarettes contain stimulants. Aside from long-term health damage and the possibility of burning down your house, smoking before bed or while in bed can cause a sleepless night. Body & sleep Menopausal woman are as likely as men to suffer from this disorder. Symptoms include snoring, gasping, pauses in breathing and brief awakenings. All of these interrupt the stages of sleep. Sleep apnea, which is the medical term for this disorder, is also correlated with high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and driving accidents. Nearly three quarters of women suffer from hot flashes during the first years of menopause. These may wake you up soaked in sweat. You may not even be aware of these sweats, but they do interrupt sleep and lead to exhaustion the next day. Periodic limb movement disorder is common as we get older. Your legs inadvertently jerk and kick, making you wake during the night. This is similar to "restless legs syndrome," where the legs also tingle and ache. Anything that causes pain can also interfere with sleep, as can chronic disease like arthritis, osteoporosis and heart disease. Another potential culprit is medication, including medications for asthma, attention-deficit disorder and depression. Help at hand The diagnosis of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is best made by a knowledgeable sleep medicine specialist who has an understanding of the individual's health issues. The diagnosis is usually based upon the person's medical history, physical examination and testing. (Dr Bhasin is a pulmonologist)
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star track
Kangna Ranaut came out of nowhere and took the industry by storm through her unconventional choice of roles, her uncanny sense of style and constant reinvention. She has a film up for release, I Love New Year with Sunny Deol. She talks about making a niche for herself and being a fashion chameleon…
Proud lineage I hail from Surajpur, a valley in Himachal Pradesh. My grandfather was an IAS officer who later became a minister for 15 years. The Ranaut has a very big name and reputation in Himachal Pradesh. I grew up in a protective environment but I had an adventurous and rebellious streak in me. I always had high self-esteem and left my house when my father slapped me. I was studying science but knew that was not for me. I was interested in culture and stuff like that and I could not tolerate anyone being sad or in pain. Self-made woman I went away to Delhi and stayed with my best friend Jaspreet for some time. I started modelling and joined the Asmita theatre group at the India Habitat Centre. It was not easy and I struggled for food and shelter. Then my father came after a month and wanted to give me Rs 50,000 to take care of myself but I was too proud to take it from him and that was a mistake on my part because it damaged my relationship with him. Today, my success is my own and he cannot find his contribution in it. We both are self-made people. Theatre person Arvind Gaur told me to go beyond theatre and he said that if I continued, I would wear simple clothes and bitch about film stars and be dissatisfied with everything. So that gave me the courage to move to Mumbai. An outsider's take Life was not easy for me even after the success of Gangster. For two years, I was considered a B-grade actress and had no films. I was not getting good parts. Star kids feel like Bollywood royalty and can make someone like me, a Jenny from the hill, feel like an outsider and that I do not deserve to be here. They feel they can make fun of us. Many big stars have tried to oust from posters and films. I have been a soft target and I have never sucked up to anyone. But Tanu Weds Manu changed my life and there has been no looking back for me after that. The National Award also did wonders for me. No marriage please! I like dating people who are self-made and intelligent. Most actors do not have the knowledge of the world around them. I need to date someone with whom I can have a conversation. I do not care about how famous people are. I will never get married because I do not believe two people should have a legal contract between them. I cannot even handle a full-time boyfriend. Forward march I have some great films coming up. Those are Bullet Raja, Queen, Shootout at Wadala, Revolver Rani, I Love New Year and Krrish 3. I want to be a director and a chef. I am in a secure space and have gifted my family members houses and given them security. I have lived life on my own terms and will continue to do so. I feel happy, complete and appreciated. Life is good!
Big break for Saqib
Saqib Saleem of Mujhse Fraandship Karoge and Mere Dad Ki Maruti is also playing a role in Karan Johar's movie for Bombay Talkies. The newcomer is more than pleased with his role. "Karan Johar asked me to be part of the film with Randeep Hooda and Rani Mukerji! I was more than happy to show up and be directed by him. It is such an honour to work with him at such a young age and so early in my career. He knows so much about movies and the pulse of the audience, but obviously!" he said.
Marriage no bar...
Girlie image
Designer Masaba Gupta unveiled the new, young Satya Paul girl as she debuted her collection for the brand on day one of the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week Autumn Winter 2013.
In India, this is the first collection designed for an established design house by a designer from outside the family that started it. Satya Paul appointed 24-year-old Masaba, daughter of actress Neena Gupta, as Fashion Director late last year. "My collection represents the new SP (Satya Paul) girl — she
is fun, she is quirky. We are trying to reposition the brand and so now we are aiming for the young girls instead of women above the age of 30," said Masaba. The collection was divided into four parts — the first consisted of lipstick prints, the second part was ink blot on garments, the third section had abstract designs and the last part had telephone booth imprints. "The lipstick symbolises femininity, the abstract stands for basic way of life of a woman, the telephone booth stands for a constant wait and the ink drop for the various changes in a woman's life," Masaba said. Models sashayed down the runway in mini and maxi dresses, gowns, sarees teamed up with printed blouses, jackets, pallazo pant sarees, tunics, kaftans and trench dresses. The colour palate ranged from the designer's favourite neon, black, white, orange to a pop of pink here and there. Masaba also said that to get the mood of the collection, she herself remixed the songs that were being played. "I chose MIA's songs as she is my favourite. I also remixed the music and the video that was playing in the background." -—
PTI
Great going
Baz Luhrmann's adaptation of The Great Gatsby, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, is all set to premiere at the 66th Cannes Film Festival.
Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan, who plays a cameo in the film, confirmed the news and tweeted: '"The Great Gatsby" official opening film for Cannes Film festival, May 15th..come one come all..half blink and you miss role for me.' The 70-year-old Indian actor will also lend his voice for a soundtrack in the film. 'Baz Luhrmann just informs me about Cannes .. there is excitement all around .. Jazz y wanting to use my voice in sound track .. sure,' he added. 'Premier of 'TGG'in NYC on May 1st I think' as informed .. but to be confirmed .. I shall be there, you bet ..' he added further. The film also stars Hollywood actors like Tobey Maguire, Carey Mulligan, Joel Edgerton, Isla Fisher and Jason Clarke.
Lose to gain
Parineeti Chopra is going to lose 8 kg weight for her next movie in which she plays a glamourous role. Hmm… 8 kg will definitely make a difference and it will be a big achievement for her. She is really going to have to curb her pizza cravings.
Plane voice
Priyanka Chopra may or may not do playback singing but she might just lend her sexy voice to an animated character of a plane. The animated film titled Plane will be directed by The Simpsons' director Klay Hall. She is doing the English dubbing for sure.
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Nausheen unplugged
Nausheen Ali Sardar of Kkusum fame is one face that has stayed in the television industry for a long time. Here, we get up, close and personal with this very beautiful actress. Life to you is… Life is a school where we have come to learn. We keep giving tests over and over again. What we score is called karma. That's my theory. Love is… Love is an expression, which has to be selfless without expectations. Love does not have to be limited to a lover. Love has to be in the heart, a heart that loves everybody. It has to be 24 karat. Marriage is… Marriage is a piece of paper. Your first crush It was in school and he was my best friend in the ninth standard. Later, I grew taller than him (laughs). Your dream date Dream date would be on a yacht in the middle of the sea with my dream man. Your best childhood memory I still remember my sister gifting me a Yamaha keyboard. It meant a lot to me.
Flashback mode
Arjun will now focus on the past life of Arjun (Shaleen Malhotra). Hence viewers will get to see some flashback sequences. According to a source, the makers will depict the story of how once good friends Arjun and Rathore (Behzaad Khan) went separate ways. In the flashback, it will be shown that while Arjun and Rathore were at the Academy, training as ACPs, they were best of friends.
And, Arjun was not the person he is today. He was a simple, happy-go-lucky man. What's more, Arjun had fallen in love with Rathore's best friend Roshni (Samiksha Jug). Later, they also got married, but then he lost his dear wife. It will be said that Arjun's wife got murdered. Since then, wrapped in rage and vengeance, Arjun has been searching for the culprits. But on the road to avenge, Arjun lost many friends and loved ones, Rathore being one of them.
Making history
Moving on?
According to grapevine, actor Ronit Roy might quit the courtroom drama series Adaalat, in which he plays a lawyer. He is travelling to Thailand to shoot for a film for a month and will holiday later for a week. In such a case, the actor won't be available to shoot for the show. Is getting busy with Bollywood the reason for Ronit's decision or is it just a 'threat' to get a hike in his fee? Guess we will have to wait and watch.
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New Releases
Chills & thrills
Film: 3G Producers: Eros International, Next Gen Films Production Director: Shantanu Ray, Sheershak Anand Johnny Gaddar, Saath Khoon Maaf and David fame Neil Nitin Mukesh has 3G lined up for release on Friday. The movie, shot in Fiji Islands, is a perfect psychological thriller inter-woven with a love story. The buzz is that 3G is very different from a normal horror film where you see ghosts, haunted houses, spooky surroundings and sounds. Sonal Chauhan and Neil Nitin Mukesh have performed many underwater stunts and in one of the sequences they are shown surrounded by sea snakes. Sonal Chauhan has sung a romantic duet Kaise bataoon…' with ace vocalist KK.
Fun unlimited Film: Mere Dad Ki Maruti Producer: Ashish Patil Director: Ashima Chhibber With Jab Tak Hai Jaan scoring big at the box-office, Yash Raj banner is ready with its next release titled Mere Dad Ki Maruti, produced by Ashish Patil (Y films). This laughter riot is set against the backdrop of a loud Punjabi wedding in Chandigarh where a boy sneaks out with his father's fancy new car to impress his girlfriend and mayhems follows. The film casts famous television actor Ram Kapoor along with Saqib Saleem, who is actor Huma Qureshi's brother. This comedy marks the debut of MTV VJ Rhea in Bollywood.
Satire time Film: Jolly LLB Producer: Fox Star Studios Director: Subhash Kapoor Boman Irani and Arshad Warsi team up together for the fourth time after Munnabhai MBBS, Lage Raho Munnabhai and Hum Tum Aur Ghost in this movie. Jolly LLB is a satire on our judicial system. It is funny and realistic; a 'slice-of-life film'. It is a common man's story. Amrita Rao and Saurabh Shukla also star in this satire. — Dharam Pal
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Astro turf
ARIES: It will be quite an exciting day. Tying up all the loose ends will be your priority. Work will take up quite a bit of your time and attention. TAURUS:This day will bring a more meaningful internal change. Start by mending strained relationships with either a family member or a friend. GEMINI: The day begins on a positive note. Keep up with the changes in life to enjoy the element of newness and freshness. Don't stress yourself too much. Control your finances. CANCER: The day will be more challenging than usual. Your efficiency and organising skills will bring excellent results. Personal relationships will become stronger. LEO: Express yourself today. The presence of the Full Moon will help you communicate and articulate your feelings, fully and emotionally. Stick to your decisions. VIRGO: It is important to concentrate on your core beliefs, values and morals. LIBRA: You will be able to rely on your friends. Love life will be exciting. Keep your finances in order. Frankness and ability to state the truth are your strong points. SCORPIO: Believe in yourself and go with your instincts today. Your partner and you will be willing to adjust, co-operate and co-exist with love, joy and contentment. SAGITTARIUS: Some of you will get surprising news. Don't stress yourself too much. Take care of your health. Do not control your relationship. CAPRICORN: Health will cause minor problems, which will lead to discomfort. Relationships, marriage and friendships will be the highlight of the day.
Tarot message: Stay focused on work. AQUARIUS: This will be a day for love and romance. Communication will be vital in your personal and professional life, so pay attention to what you say and write. PISCES: The presence of Mercury will give you the strength to overcome distress. There will be a positive development at work and in personal life. Your finances will be strong. You share your birthday with actor Abhay Deol (March 15, 1976). Dev-D and Oye Lucky Oye fame Abhay is nephew of veteran actor Dharmendra and his cousins are Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol and Hema Malini's daughter Esha Deol. This year will establish him.
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The year ahead
If your birthday is March 15...
The number six and the Venus make you enthusiastic, loyal, charming, witty and helpful in nature. The sum of 2013 is also six coinciding with your basic number. You have a very sharp memory, and your grasping power is wonderful. Schedule meetings, brainstorming sessions and lunches with key parties. You will be attending some important meetings. You will devote time and money to a worthy cause. Bank balance will keep growing fast. Guard yourself from burn and cuts. Be careful to avoid serious problems. Mars and Venus in water signs give your love life some nourishment. You have a hole in your pocket and spend more than usual on trips, vacations, beauty treatments and clothes. However, things will go rather well for employees. In fact, you could do a little more spending than usual, without over-doing it. Sharing of ideas, emotions and resources will be your best part for this year. You will feel great as a lot of possibilities open up in front of you. Be patient for just a little while longer. You will be surprised at what you learn. Many questions will be answered. Do not give up on the puzzle that has been so frustrating. Now is not the time to walk away. There appears to be plenty to do and not too much time to get everything done. You can easily hold position of leadership and authority but you lose good opportunities due to your tendency to behave moody, stubborn and vindictive at times. So be careful. Students will perform well in academics and will be rewarded for their contribution towards extra-curricular activities. Listen to the needs of your friends. If you get involved in a 'home improvement project' with a relative, make sure you know what you are getting into first and accordingly work out a plan. Mood: Clear and quick witted Compatible signs: Sagittarius, Scorpio Lucky colours: Dark Yellow Lucky days: Wednesday and Saturday.
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