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Creative connect
Having performed at various festivals in India as well as abroad, Padma Shri Sumitra Guha has taken her art far and wide. The classical vocalist forms an immediate connect with the audience, which is more often than not left spellbound.
“Where there is a will, there is a way,” says the artiste, who is carrying the legacy of her mother forward. Although she started with Carnatic music, she shifted to the Hindustani style later. “I connected more with Hindustani style,” she says. “Albeit I was married to a Bengali businessman with no interest in music, my love for music has survived. He was supportive all through the journey though,” she quips. Sumitra has also performed and recorded with various musicians from the West. Her album Gondwana Dawn was recorded with a double Grammy award winner Robin Hogarth. “It is a fusion of Indian Classical and African Gospel Music. It made me realise that although separated by boundaries, human sentiments by and large remain the same. Some of the tracks in the album include the national anthem of South Africa as well as India, Kabir’s famous bhajan Mok kahan dhundhe re, Gandhiji’s Vaishnav jan, among others,” she shares. The album releases on April 30. Sumitra is hopeful about the coming times. “The younger generation has a lot of potential, all they need is the right kind of exposure,” says the vocalist who also imparts training to children from under-privileged sections of the society.
Dance floor
Bharatnatyam exponent Anne Chaymotty walks with pride and inspires many. A French National and a globally recognised dancer who later changed her name to Devayani, she has a lot of memories to share.
Why India and more importantly why Bharatnaytam...we wonder? “Maybe India chose me. I have always been in love with performing arts,” says this Padma Shri awardee. After tedious research, Bharatnatyam satisfied her creative streak, “Bharatnatyam inherits a spectrum of expressions, gestures and poses. Also, the choreographic patterns are endless.” How did the French artist connect to the mythological content? “I connected more to the expressions; my guru never explained anything to me. He just demonstrated and I understood; for instance, the shringar.” Apart from Bharatnatyam, she has attained perfection in the art of Abhinay, Karanas (sculpture poses), Kuchipudi dance and South-Indian classical music under the guidance of some distinguished names. She has also worked in many television shows and also bagged a movie. “I would not have gone in any other direction; financial constraints leave me with very little hope to experiment though.”Devayani also talks about the popularity of Bharatnatyam dance at the international level. “In Europe, the dance form has a greater recognition now. If you succeed in captivating the audience, you’re a hit!”
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First step, giant leap
Nishwan Bhullar…the name does not ring a bell immediately. Even if we drop a hint that the name is part of the Punjabi entertainment industry, it will still take time to scroll the list of Punjabi actors and singers till you finally get some information on the recent online pages. The Punjabi singer-actor from Rajasthan has played the lead in the National Award-winning Punjabi film Nabar, directed by Rajeev Sharma. He is obviously happy; he struggles with the right words to express but when he gets them, they make a lot of sense. Trained singer
Nishwan is a Punjabi singer whose first song on Bhagat Singh was appreciated by people. "My close friend happened to mention my name to the director of Nabar, Rajeev. We spoke; both approved of each other and this is how I got the film," he shares without adding any frills. Nishwan is not a trained actor, but the same doesn't hold true for music. "I am a trained singer; I learnt music for three-four years before I came out with my own track." Movie time
Nishwan hadn't expected that the movie he was making his debut with would win a national award. His reactions pretty much justify that! "When my friends called me to congratulate, I asked them to cross check it hundred times. I started getting congratulatory messages on Facebook, but I still wasn't sure. Finally, I did agree," says Nishwan. He feels Nabar is a movie with a message and a strong sensibility. Didn't we hear it was comedy all the way in Punjabi movies? "Every genre has its place, whether it is a comedy or a romantic movie. Nabar is a movie based on a sensitive subject and a national award means there are audiences who watch as well as appreciate this kind of cinema." jasmine@tribunemail.com
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Model demeanour
Of the many people that assist celebrities in staying longer under the limelight, a publicist is mandatory — someone who can push your case, someone who can fix interviews and someone who can ensure a long innings under the sun. Sultry beauty Nethra Raghuraman, the supermodel and actress conveniently chooses not to go with one — this is seriously not her cup of tea! Seen on Zoom Fashion Drill — Model Of The Honour as one of the mentors along with Alison Kanuga and Subi Samuel, Nethra reinvents herself in different roles, without a publicist though!
As a mentor for the new show on Zoom, Nethra does her duty to guide and teach the participants, but the lanky beauty cannot help seeing the difference between then and now. “Zoom has given the contestants a chance, which is good. But definitely, I didn’t have it that easy,” says the model who came into modelling by chance. “The participants on the show know what they are in for unlike the time when I entered modelling without any know-how. Once I was in, I wanted to come out. These girls definitely have more exposure,” she says. This is not for the first time that Nethra is seen on television, she was in Fear Factor and an anchor for two other travel shows. In case you didn’t see her much…blame in on her, she does not have a publicist! Comparisons continue even as she does a good job of a mentor. “Anybody who is tall and has a good figure can make it into modelling; back then these two were the considerations but along with one had to also have an individual personality,” she adds. If the word is personality, Nethra definitely has built one for herself on her own terms. If you didn’t see her much after the Bollywood movie Bhopal Express, you know whom to blame! “Not the publicist,” she crackles. “I didn’t want to be an item girl or an actress; I never wanted to do roles of running around the trees, which I don’t relate to. I couldn’t bring myself to say haanji or naaji; I could have done that for anything meaningful. So, I chose to not be a part of the industry or do something I couldn’t relate to. Hindi film industry has expanded in a nice way, if there is something meaningful I would give it a shot. The long and short of it is to be in movies at the right time and in the right place.”
Award corner
On the show, only one male and one female contestant will stand a chance to win modelling contracts worth Rs 5 lakh each with Toabh, a wardrobe from Pepe Jeans, London, and bikes from Yamaha. These exceptionally promising models will also be a part of the special feature in Elle magazine.
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Ghastly affair
Aatma
Directed by Suparn Verma, Aatma is a psychological thriller. With Bipasha Basu and Nawazuddin Siddiqui in the lead roles, the movie centres on a mother's (Bipasha's) struggle to keep her daughter safe from the ghost of her father (Nawazuddin). Well shot! I liked the movie, though it is just a one-time watch. There are a few scenes which send shivers down your spine. In one scene, thin film of plastic sheets start appearing magically on the pandit's face and start suffocating him. I was scared out of my wits then. Pooja Sharma, student Giving goosebumps I liked Bipasha's acting in Raaz and I think she really acts well when it comes to essaying a role of a victim in a horror flick. In one of the scenes, Bipasha's friend asks her to keep sharp objects under her pillow as that would keep her nightmares at bay, but the next moment you see those knives, cutters and saws hovering in the air! So, you can imagine the kind of impact it created. Gayatri Mahajan, housewife
Rangrezz
Directed by Priyadarshan, Rangrezz features Jackky Bhagnani, Priya Anand, Rajpal Yadav and Amitosh Nagpal in the lead roles.
It is a Hindi remake of the Tamil film, Naadodigal. Rangrezz by definition describes someone dyeing clothes; but in the
film, Rishi Deshpande (Jackky Bhagnani) breathes colours into the lives of people. It is the story of this brave lad who puts the dignity of his loved ones before anything else and believes in adding value to other people's life. Because of Rishi's helpful nature, he and his friends end up in life threatening situation when they collectively help a friend to get married to the love of his life, in spite of the parents opposing to it. The climax involves terrific action sequences and thrill. Too many plots Though the film has a good plot, but unfortunately it is not executed well. There are too many parallel plots and unnecessary diversions, which cause much confusion. Also, the first half of
the film is extremely well but it loses its grip in the second half. Sakshi Gupta, student Overload of drama The film is a good blend of intelligence and drama but gets melodramatic at times. Also, I like the way Jackky has performed in the film, his role is adorable indeed. The film is a refreshing take on love stories. It’s definitely worth a watch. Sandeep Singh Gill, Golfer A story well told I liked the film for the
honesty with which the story has been projected. Though the film is just a one-time watch, but the themedoes have a lot of substance to it. Anil Chaudhary, businessman —
As told to Amarjot Kaur
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Playful moments
Ranbir Kapoor was absolutely naughty and playful at the launch of Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani. He went on stage and touched Karan Johar and Ayan Mukerji's feet, unbuttoned Ayan Mukerji's shirt to show off his 'six packs' and even did the Barfi! steps on stage. He tackled all the silly questions asked by the media with aplomb and had everyone in splits! He is also sporting a fake tattoo which reads Awara for the same film as they are still shooting it. The boy is something else.
Anushka Sharma has bought sprawling apartments in Badrinath Towers, Versova, sub-urban Mumbai. She bought the entire 20th floor a year ago. She is finally moving in. In between shoots and endorsements, she took out time to check out her place and stayed updated via phone calls and emails. Her parents will stay with her. She has bought a lot of artifacts from around the world to decorate her new place.
When action speaks louder…
Hero material
Vidyut Jammwal got a great response during Force and I felt he could carry a film on his shoulders in which he played the hero. Even though he was the villain in Force, everyone lauded his action skills, his physique and good looks. And so many actors like Shah Rukh Khan began their careers on a negative note. Now, Vidyut has to prove himself as a hero material. His action skills are exceptional and he has designed the stunts in the movie. We had professionals flown in from Africa to train him. He even has a romantic side which you will see in the movie. He has done all the stunts himself except for one jump. We even did a live event to prove and stand by our claims. All these videos can be seen on YouTube. I really believe in Vidyut. Even Akshay Kumaer saw the rushes and said that Vidyut is fantastic. We feel he will go far. The incredible and realistic action is the USP of this movie. It is a family entertainment
package. Right choice
We auditioned hundred girls for this role because we wanted a new girl who was right for the part opposite Vidyut. Pooja Chopra was the last one and she seemed just right. She is beautiful and has a good personality. She has proved herself during the Miss India contest. The reason we chose her is because she is a talented actress. And she and Vidyut look great together.
Promotional zeal
Hrithik Roshan has just wrapped up Krissh 3 and now taking a keen interest in the post-production work on the film. He is leaving no stone unturned and is personally supervising everything. The first promo is being cut at a studio in suburban Mumbai which is owned by Binny Padda. The studio has cut other trailers like that of Rockstar, Ghajini and Koi Mil Gaya, so Hrithik is supervising the cutting of the trailer because this trailer will make a crucial and
big impact. Hrithik is a perfectionist and is spending many hours during the day and night over there. A source says, "Anybody who goes there for their work is likely to bump into Hrithik at any time of the day and night. That is the level of how involved he is in the trailer process. He is overseeing every part of the trailer which will be launched a few months later because the film is heavy on special effects and lots of work has to
be done on it before its Diwali release. The film will not converted to 3D because the expense is too much, it is a long process and Indian 3D films like Joker have not set the cash registers ringing. So Rakesh and Hrithik Roshan do not feel the need to take the risk and will let their passion project sparkle in 2D. Anyway, there are too many special effects."
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Devgn’s Holi cameo
Adding a sprinkle of stardust to your Holi celebrations this year, Zee TV’s Sapne Suhane Ladakpan Ke brings you Ajay Devgn, Tamanna and Sajid Khan.
The Himmatwala trio will soon be seen at lead protagonist Rachana’s (Mahima Makwana) place on Holi. They will give her a few words of advice to deal with the Vihaan (Nikkhil Chaddha), who gatecrashes her Holi party. Ajay will tell Rachana that girls need to be strong and all it takes is Himmat! The lead of the show will invite the stars to partake in their Holi revelry. Mahima Makwana who plays Rachana said, “Because of his intimidating persona, we were a bit wary of Ajay Devgn. But he is very down-to-earth. My character’s interaction with him will encourage her to voice her thoughts and stand up against injustice." Stay tuned to Sapne Suhane Ladakpan Ke on Monday, March 25 at 7:30 pm for a Holi special called Holi Ladakpan Ki, only on Zee TV.
With dance reality show, Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, touted to be aired soon, the channel is working towards looping in stars. Buzz is that is that the makers have approached Drashti Dhami aka Madhubala and Sanaya Irani to contest in the show. Let's see if they agree to come on board.
Like mother like daughter
Famous for her comic roles, Supriya Pathak is happy to be playing a role that’s similar to her mother, Dina Pathak's role from the film Khoobsurat. She will play a strict saas in her new show Chanchan.
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Astro turf
ARIES: Ask yourself if it is time to give up for good or just give in for a few hours? Heartaches are forgotten as you get a new lease of life at work. You can expect visitors from overseas.
Tarot message: Use your instinct to get into the top circle of power. Lucky colour: White.
Lucky number: 35
TAURUS: Close associates will turn to you for help and though this will add to your workload, it will increase your goodwill. This is a good time to start a self-improvement project.
Tarot message: This is no time to rest; action is needed. Lucky colour: Orange.
Lucky number: 48 GEMINI: Study all aspects of situation before making commitments. You will feel overwhelmed by the thought of finishing a hectic activity at work. Tarot message: Take new challenges in your stride and deal with them sensibly.
Lucky colour: Peach. Lucky number: 51 CANCER: Be clear in your interactions with colleagues as this willsave time. Friends or family members will depend on you for emotional support.
Tarot message: You must share responsibility with others before continuing.
Lucky colour: Ebony. Lucky number: 55 LEO: Prioritise your time to get maximum benefits. Share market speculations should be avoided today.
Tarot message: Extend your circle of friends, as people are your best bet against a hostile situation at work.
Lucky colour: Crimson. Lucky number: 60 VIRGO: It's best to go beyond your ego and ask for help when needed. A short romantic holiday is on the cards. You will travel some distance to bring a pending matter to completion. Tarot message: Concentrate on projects with reliable outcome.
Lucky colour: Saffron. Lucky number: 30
LIBRA: Study matters thoroughly before signing any new contracts. Do not lose your confidence. Love and romance are on the cards. Children will show a concern towards their younger siblings. Tarot message: Win the war with honesty, not by distorting facts. Lucky colour: Pink.
Lucky number: 27 SCORPIO: Today will be a great day for sportspersons. A family gathering at your house will bring bliss to the faces of the elders in the family. You manage business affairs with skill and capability.
Tarot message: Don’t be dismissive of advice from youthful origin. Lucky colour: Orange.
Lucky number: 61 SAGITTARIUS: A journey for business or a pilgrimage with your family is on the cards. Mental flexibility is a good idea for you. It will be an effort for you to comply, but it is good for all-round happiness.
Tarot message: Be practical. Lucky colour: Maroon. Lucky number: 25 CAPRICORN: You are on the edge of something grand. Even if you are a bit frightened at the magnitude of what's ahead, don't rush to the beginning; you'll know when to act. Tarot message: You need to cultivate understanding and humility.
Lucky colour: Golden Brown. Lucky number: 31 AQUARIUS: Make a firm resolve to let go and roll with the flow. Take a trip and connect with interesting new people.
The day indicates more expenditure, so take care. Tarot message: Be grateful for the gains coming your way.
Lucky colour: Yellow. Lucky number: 42 PISCES: The more you give, the more everyone will think you are marvellous. Remember, a healthy attitude will take you farther than overstated confidence.
Your feelings have deepened. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended.
Lucky colour: Silver-Grey. Lucky number: 63
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The year ahead
If your birthday is March 23...
Your feelings will be difficult to control. Therefore, take your time before taking important decisions. You'll take on all great work opportunities and do well. Someone will make an unexpected declaration of love and this will make you very happy, as you will finally be aware of this person's deep feelings for you. You're a lot more determined than people realise. That's because you project a calm, easygoing energy that is often mistaken for laziness. In truth, you are focused on fulfilling your potential. You are likely to get a high profile job so long as you keep plugging away behind the scenes. Don't tell anybody about your journey until the end is in sight. Keep your guards up; react immediately if you are reminded of the past. During the year you will achieve all your goals if you can concentrate on the present. Stay calm. Mood: Vulnerable at times. Compatible signs: Taurus, Scorpio. Lucky colours: Brown. Lucky days: Thursday and Sunday.
You share your birthday with Nicholle Tom (March 23, 1978), a famous actress, known for her role as Maggie Sheffield in The Nanny. She is the twin sister of actor David Tom. In 1992, Tom played the role of Scott Scanlon's sister, Sue, on Beverly Hills, 90210. Also, in 1992 and 1993, Tom played Ryce Newton in the successful family movies Beethoven and Beethoven's 2nd.
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Home coming
Vipul Shah is the producer of Commando which stars Vidyut Jammwal and newbie Pooja Chopra. It is positioned as a state-of-the-art action film which has elements of romance and masala with good music. The filmmaker talks about his latest offering.
Coming soon
Lucky numbers: 7, 14, 44, 57, 99.