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Master of spice
He dismisses all stereotypes that border along the lines of defining a chef and he maintains that it is ‘momentum’ that has kept him going. In Chandigarh to confer the Youth Technical Training Society (YTTS) with the Star Plus Nayi Soch Award, Vikas Khanna, who is presently judging the Season 2 of Masterchef India, felicitated the accomplishments of this NGO while applauding their social concerns.
While highlighting the significance of his signature cooking, Vikas shares some of his first-hand experiences, “I was very small when I started learning how to make chappatis and believed that it was due to the virtue of the rolling pin that I could make good rotis. However, one fine day, my brother chose to hide it and I complained to my grandmother. It was then that she gave me a lesson in life — the power lies not in one’s tools, but in the heart, head and determination.” The secret ingredient
Believe it or not, Vikas, reticent as he is, was nonplussed on being approached to judge the second season of Masterchef India. “Considering that Akshay Kumar was judging the first season of the show, I was a little apprehensive until the makers of the show convinced me of their fresh perspective, the nayi soch, as they would like to call it, which brought my twenty-four years of experience to the show,” shares Vikas. When asked about introducing the Junior Masterchef in India, he says, “I would put everything at stake to get it on air, but we still have a long way to go.” Vikas recollects the time when he would sell soda with channa-kulcha at Rs 20 per plate at cricket stadiums and talks about how time has changed, “My mother believed in me; that is the reason why I was offered to prepare the presidential dinner for Rs 20 lakhs. Recently, I attended Michelle Obama’s birthday party and she wanted me to teach her how to make keema curry,” he says. Flavour of words
Vikas has written a series of cookbooks and his recent endeavour is called, Return to the rivers. “The concept of the book traces the importance of water bodies because they propelled agriculture. The introduction of the book has been given by Dalai Lama and this is perhaps the last cookbook that he claims to endorse,” says Vikas. He just completed the book that he wrote along with his grandmother, who passed away last year. Preserving culture
Vikas believes in preserving the sanctity of his culture and this thought finds inspiration in the beliefs of his grandmother, who also inspired him and his love for cooking. “We should preserve the culture rather than preserving vegetables,” he quips. “For summer, I have always advocated one recipe—Panna, which is made out of raw mangoes.” When asked about his marriage plans, Vikas smiles, “Next year for sure! I have been given a deadline by my mother and as soon as I decide something, you will be the first to know.” amarjot@tribunemail.com
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Living life to the hilt
“If I were Neena Tiwana, wife of Harpal Tiwana, who had his own theatre group I would have dedicated a lifetime to theatre as well.” Now who else but Neena’s real sister Balinder Johal, the actor of many parts in foreign films, can say that? Vancouver-based Balinder, more recently seen in a cameo in Punjabi film Jatt and Juliet, has no qualms about accepting whatever comes her way.
Sure enough, Hollywood films do not have major roles for Indians. Often the filmmakers expect her to put on a heavy accent, but at the end of the day she is not only too happy with the money “nearly $1,500 a day” but also swears by their professionalism. She quips, “Imagine even for a part of five scenes they send me the whole script.” She is equally elated with her association with Canada-based director Deepa Mehta in whose film Heaven on Earth she slipped into the part of Preity Zinta’s tyrannical mother-in-law. She jokes, “If you had seen me in the film you would be scared of me.” On a serious note, she says euphemistically, “Deepa is an actor’s person, a director with a vision and a wonderful human being. Though I acted in her film way back in 2007, I continue to share a special bond with her.” Interestingly, in the same movie Balinder’s brother played her husband. Blasphemous? Indeed, initially even Balinder was aghast at the suggestion. But when Deepa persuaded her with the logic “you are playing mummy-papa not husband and wife”, she relented. Yet another acting foray she recalls with fondness is in the television serial Sanctuary. She reminisces how the role began as a two-day stint, but when the director asked her ‘can you run’ and she replied ‘like an old lady I sure can’ it soon fleshed into a meatier part. As a woman of wisdom, she also sailed into the hearts of Punjabi viewers in her insightful, educative yet comic take on a host of social concerns in and as Chachi ji. Aired on multi-cultural channel in Canada, it earned her a deep abiding respect among her community. With Punjabi culture a big entity in Canada she could easily have reigned over the small screen, but she always desired to be part of the bigger picture of the mainstream culture. So what if her parts are small, she has reached a point where directors like Kavi Raj are creating roles for her. Instead of fretting and fuming over what is not in her hands, she has no regrets over what could have been. “ I am happy”…. is the bottom-line with which she moves on….all set to be part of Jatt and Juliet’s sequel as well. The big picture is making her fly to Los Angeles where cameras will roll on her for yet another Hollywood film. Howsoever briefly, no one can take away her moment of glory at that point. In the twilight years of her satisfying journey, life for this grandmother is all about lights, camera…action! nonika@tribunemail.com
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Puppet pleasure
Since its inception in 2001, the Ishara International Puppet Theatre Festival has brought to India over 90 international puppetry companies and promoted numerous indigenous productions. Alongside Indian talent, countries that have participated include USA, Brazil, Belgium, Afghanistan, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Spain, Turkey, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Taiwan, Japan, Sweden, Norway, Israel, Ireland and Iran. Ishara has provided evocative and memorable entertainment and education for Indian audiences, which attracts puppeteers and enthusiasts from all over the world. The festival, produced by Teamwork Productions, focuses on both traditional and contemporary work from India as well as abroad, and is seen as an established platform to further multimedia arts. In 2013, the festival is delighted to celebrate its 11th anniversary with a wide and exciting range of performances. The festival has modern and traditional forms, ranging from rod, string and shadow puppets; to mixed performances with dance, theatre and music. — TNS On till April 16 at the Tagore Theatre, Chandigarh Some of the groups participating in the Ishara International Puppet Theatre Festival 2013
Country: Russia
Country: Israel
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Work and play
Kunal Khemu loves food and films. He recently travelled to Mauritius for Go, Goa, Gone and indulged himself in local delicacies. His other passion is films. He talks about his filmy journey, Soha Ali Khan and more. In marvellous Mauritius
We originally wanted to shoot this movie in Goa but it was raining when we landed there so we could not shoot. We had to find a place that resembled Goa and we landed in Mauritius. The weather was pleasant and perfect for shooting. The beaches had forests nearby. I enjoyed swimming and lounging on the beaches. Everyone in Mauritius speaks Hindi. Food I love
I am a glutton and I eat a lot, more than anyone else on most film sets. In Mauritius, the only authentic Mauritian food we got was faratas which was spicy aloo chutney curry rolled in a roti. One guy would come on a bike and give it to us. I like all sorts of food, I even like karela. I do not like bland and extra cheesy food. Supporting to solo
As a child actor, I always played supporting roles in movies which were bigger than me. It is only now that I am doing solo-hero films. I have done around ten films as an adult and some have been multi-starrers but I am glad I have been able to hold my own in them. I do not look for a particular type of film, I simply choose scripts and stories that have appeal to me. Cinema I watch
I am a film buff. I watch films from all over the world whether Korean, French, German, Italian or American. I do not watch romantic films too often but when I do, I follow it up with something light-hearted. I also watch American television series of different genres. I love watching action, thriller and comedies. Books vs movies
Soha Ali Khan is more into books and I am more into movies. She had not watched many Hindi films so I made her watch them because as a Hindi film actress, one needs to be aware and watch certain movies. She can finish a book in two hours but it takes me a month to read a book. She likes Poirot and British drama which I do not like much. So she watches them when I am away.
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In good company
Saqib Saleem considers himself very privileged and lucky to be working with Karan Johar, Rani Mukerji and Randeep Hooda. He has been a fan of his co-actors and director for a long time. He is part of the segment starring Rani Mukerji. It looks like Rani's character is married to Randeep's character and has an affair with Saqib's character who is much younger than them. Big Rani fan
I am a big Rani Mukerji fan. I have seen Bunty Aur Babli ten times just for her. It gave me so much confidence to have worked with her and shared the frame with her. This movie will do wonders for me as it is only my third film. She is a different person once the camera rolls and she does it effortlessly. I am in awe of her. I aspire to be an actor like her. I do not know how many years it will take me to switch on and off like that for my characters. Friendly Randeep Hooda
He is a thorough gentleman. We have a few scenes together and he slaps me in them too. So after every slap, he would ask me if I was okay. That was so sweet and polite of him. He is very humble and friendly. Karan Johar rocks
I got a call from Shanoo Sharma for this movie and I had no choice but to say Yes! Karan Johar knows cinema and the pulse of audiences unlike anyone else. So why would I ever refuse. Moreover, this is a tribute to 100 years of cinema so I feel very lucky to be part of it.
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Icy cool
An ice-cream brings back all the childhood memories - of love, of bliss and purity. And when it is served in an extravagant platter, it becomes all the more exciting. Vijay Sood, VP, Executive Director, General Mills India, at the launch of dessert brand Haagen-Dazs in Elante Mall, Chandigarh, on Wednesday, says, "Haagen-Dazs has won the hearts of connoisseurs in Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai and Bengaluru for the last three years. We hope to create the same magic here in Chandigarh." Behind the scenes
"We are very delighted to open the store in Chandigarh. I personally have stayed here for a long time and know that the city is accustomed to a lavish lifestyle. We are hoping to create an ambience that is really high-end. The brand connotes luxury, romance, intimacy and special moments. With the ample space and open walls, people here can relax while relishing a refreshing dessert," adds Vijay. The technique of using the purest and fresh ingredients began in New York in 1960. "We maintained the same philosophy while opening stores in fifty countries. With this amazing response, we hope to open more of them," says Vijay. While the models dressed in colourful dresses showcased the novel desserts, Vijay took us through the menu before halting at the Fondue, "This is my personal favourite. I just love the blend of ice-cream, pastry and fruit. Within the heart of this delicacy, we have the chocolate dipping." Chef talk
Chef Anthony David uncovers some exciting secrets about the sumptuous ice-creams, "Our menu says- 'Taste the world' and that's exactly what we bring to you; the best and the most wanted desserts from across the world. The consumer is our best critic. We let them decide what they want on the menu by tasting our desserts." It's an art
"It's much more than just ice-cream and for a chef, this is a blessing. We innovate every day and add new flavours. It's more like an art; every day it is a challenge, but I love it," says Anthony. Flavours like Dulce de Leche, Macadamia Nut Brittle and Strawberry Cheesecake add to the classy palate along with the innovations like Dazs Dolce and Crème Brulee.
Global village
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Act two
Wills Lifestyle, ITC's premium fashion brand, has launched its second exclusive store at Elante Mall, Chandigarh. Spread over 2,200 sq ft, the newly launched Wills Lifestyle store, will continue to provide customers in Chandigarh a truly international shopping experience.
Wills Lifestyle, the fashion destination, offers a tempting choice of Wills Signature designer wear, Wills Classic work wear, Wills Sport relaxed wear, Wills Clublife evening wear, fashion accessories, Essenza Di Wills fine fragrances and Fiama Di Wills bath and body care products. The refreshing new Spring Summer collection is now available at the store. The store offers a retailing ambience reflecting the most contemporary trends in store design, thereby creating a splendid backdrop for the premium offerings and providing a pleasurable shopping experience. Atul Chand, Divisional Chief Executive, ITC's Lifestyle Retailing, says, "We are delighted to open our new store in Chandigarh. This luxurious store will capture the increasing demand for the brand in the city." Wills Lifestyle ensembles are priced between Rs 1,499 - Rs 14,999. — TNS
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Tone Tonic
Vishal Thukral
Squat
Set your body in the correct position - feet about shoulder-width apart, shoulders down and away from your ears, and your chest open. If you are a beginner, you may choose to perform this move against a wall, or even with a chair - both of which are fine. Bend your knees and lower into a squat, keeping your knees in line with your toes, never allowing them to go past and also never allowing your knees to knock. Lower your body down as far as you can (but no lower than 90 degrees) and push into the heels of your feet to go back to the starting position. Lunge
Standing with your feet together, hold (one or two kg) dumbbells down at your sides with palms facing in toward your thighs. Take one big step forward with your right leg. Plant your right foot; slowly lower your left knee toward the floor, hovering it off the floor. Your right knee should be at a 90-degree angle, and your back straight. Press into your right foot, and push yourself back to the starting position. Repeat with your left leg. Single leg dead-lift
Stand on your right leg with your left leg behind you and in the air. Keeping your shoulders back and your back straight; hinge forward and reach your hands towards the ground. Return back up and repeat. Hold weights or a medicine ball for an added challenge. Hip-lift progression
This is an awesome way to relieve tension in your lower back. Lie on your back (preferably on exercise mat or a carpet) with your arms at your sides, knees bent and feet on the floor. Lift your hips toward the ceiling. Hold for one count and then lower back down. Repeat the lifts for 60 seconds, squeezing your glutes and hamstrings at the top of the range of motion. Diet tip
Avoid fried foods and any foods high in sugar, salt and fat. (Thukral is an aerobics fitness trainer)
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Under cyber attack
Summer retreat
Emraan Hashmi accommodates Sanjay Dutt
After Aamir Khan adjusted his dates for Sanjay Dutt for PK, it's now Emraan Hashmi who's doing the same for Ungli. Emraan Hashmi has agreed to losing one day of promoting his forthcoming Ek Thi Daayan. Hashmi has to complete shooting with Sanjay Dutt for Karan Johar's Ungli in Mumbai before Dutt surrenders. Emraan was supposed to be in Delhi on the 13th to promote Ek Thi Daayan at the Kingdom of Dreams but will be in Delhi on the 11th and 12th of April instead. Ek Thi Daayan releases worldwide on April 19.
Katrina Kaif lives in Bandra, suburban Mumbai. She has to train hard for Dhoom 3 and do some outdoor exercises so she has obtained special permission from the other authorities at Joggers' Park to train over there before anyone else arrived in the park. She trains for nearly five hours now.
Shahid's new Guru
Rough & tough
Small and simple
Former Friends’ star Jennifer Aniston’s first wedding to Brad Pitt was “stressful” and she did not enjoy it, according to her wedding planner.
Aniston tied the knot with the actor in 2000 in a lavish ceremony, but her wedding planner Kevin Lee admits the actress was uncomfortable with the over-the-top celebration. The 44-year-old, who is planning to tie the knot for the second time with fiance Justin Theroux, wants the ceremony to be very small and simple. “They won’t be blowing millions on an over-the-top wedding with hundreds of people they barely know. Brad wanted that when she married him, and she got caught up in having a huge day.“It was ultimately so stressful that she couldn’t really take time to enjoy it. So it’s going to be small and low-key so they feel relaxed,” Lee said.— PTI
Friends again
Harman Baweja and Priyanka Chopra have buried their past and moved on with their lives. They greeted each other warmly with a hug on the red carpet of an event in Vancouver. PC is still friends with his sister Rowena while Harman has been linked with Bipasha Basu.
Jay-Z to buy island in Bahamas
Rapper Jay-Z is reportedly planning to buy an island worth two million pounds in Bahamas for wife Beyonce Knowles. “Jay’s been looking for a private island for the family. He wants to turn it into his own Necker Island like Richard Branson,” says a source. This could also be a present for Knowles, whom he married in 2008. Together, they have daughter Blue Ivy. “He’s getting it partly to mark their fifth wedding anniversary but also, with Bey back in the spotlight, it’s getting impossible for them to do normal things such as go to the beach with Blue,” the source said. “A private island means they'll be able to have quality time with minimum staff and security," the source added. — IANS
Cruise at 50
Hollywood actor Tom Cruise, 50, says life always keeps throwing new challenges, and the right way to deal with it is to face it with a pitch of humour. He spoke about life while promoting for his new sci-fi movie Oblivion. "Life is a challenge. You are 50 and you think you have everything in order and suddenly it hits you — that's what life is all about," said Cruise. "Life is like a tragic comedy, you need a sense of humour," he added. — IANS
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Blame it on the grapevine!
Comic connect
Filmmaker Arbaaz Khan, who earlier said that he would not replace his brother Sohail Khan, has now signed the next season of Comedy Circus.
Aman returns
Aman Varma will make a comeback in the television industry with Life Ok’s show Shapath. He will essay the role of the new ACP as Milind Gunaji quit the show due to some date issues. Since Aman is a popular personality and has good acting skills, the makers of the show are expecting his return to be huge plus for the show.
Stirring commotion
Family affair
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Astro turf
ARIES: Enjoy a quiet morning and indulge in an artistic project. Let your imagination run free. You will face some minor difficulties at work. However, don’t worry and stay possitive.
Tarot message: Think wisely before you act. Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 33
TAURUS: Today you will find people generally hard to pin down. Do not bury disturbing emotions. Rather, work through them. This is a good day for recharging your batteries.
Tarot message: Think before taking any important decisions. Lucky colour: Peach.
Magic number: 51 GEMINI: Your card “the Sword” signifies formation of lasting relationships with new people. Stick to your regular job to boost your finances. Stay optimistic and don’t let anything topple your energy.
Tarot message: Be patient. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 34 CANCER: Concentrate on your career path and the business at hand. Be flexible. Look at a problem from a different angle to find a better solution. Your popularity is an asset to you.
Tarot message: Do not neglect your home and family. Lucky colour: Rainbow.
Magic number: 39 LEO: Today attention revolves around your property and family. Your determination and thoroughness will ensure success. A heavy workload will put you off early, but as the day progresses your confidence will return.
Tarot message: Stay optimistic. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 27 VIRGO: Hobbies will give you much satisfaction. Confidence will rise. Business negotiations will give you a chance to shine. Put your ideas forward and enjoy the positive response.
Tarot message: Focus on your goals. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 45
LIBRA: A fortunate day for romance. Think about your long term goals. Do not try to influence others. A very friendly vibe makes it easy to discuss subjects that are usually avoided. Tarot message: Try to be active in encashing financial opportunities.
Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 47 SCORPIO: Do not be afraid to get things off your chest. Frank discussion will clear the air. Do not be too demanding with loved ones. A pay raise will boost your confidence and give you a sense of security. Tarot message: Do not leave things to chance.
Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 32 SAGITTARIUS: The day will become rather sensitive for marital relationship. Give more attention to your health. Do not stress yourself too much. Appointments and meetings will fill up your day.Tarot message: Use your judgments to take a firm decision.
Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 29 CAPRICORN: Partners may or may not agree with your plans. Do not put your finances on stake. Be realistic in any business negotiations or plans. A childhood dream will be close to becoming a reality. Tarot message: Keep a positive outlook towards life.
Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 42 AQUARIUS: Hopes will boost your confidence. This is a relaxing day for older people. Patience and hard work will pay off well. Focus on leadership and inspiration. Loved ones will be supportive. Tarot message: Do not stress yourself too much, relax a little. Lucky colour: Purple.
Magic number: 61 PISCES: Surprising events will make you reconsider a few decisions that you recently undertook. Home renovations will require more finances than what you planned for. Involve yourself in new projects.
Tarot message: Stay focused. Lucky colour: Burgundy. Magic number: 58
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For most women, the lower body particularly hips are the main area of concern. Here we have four quick and easy routines that you can perform at home, to achieve a sculpted gluteus.
Kangna Ranaut's email account has been hacked into and she has no access to it. She came to know when her friends called her and asked her why she was not replying to them. So now she has informed everyone she knows that her account has been hacked into. Poor girl!
Every second person in Bollywood is going on a holiday to beat the summer heat. Nargis Fakhri is off to New York and Los Angeles for a holiday to meet her mother and friends. She will return and complete shooting for Madras Cafe with John Abraham. Actress Sonam Kapoor and Karan Johar are also in New York for vacations!
Early bird
Shahid Kapoor has a new dance teacher and it is none other than Prabhu Deva, director of Rambo Rajkumar. He feels he can learn many new techniques from him and will dance in a new way in the movie. Shahid has many choreographer friends in the industry. Prabhu and Shahid have mutual respect and admiration for each other.
Minissha Lamba has so far played the girl next door. She will play a rough and tough undercover agent in her next film opposite Nawazuddin Siddiqui. She has even lost weight for the role. She has been watching Hollywood mystery and action movies to pick up tips and nuances of playing a secret agent.
The rumour mills claim that Tina Dutta is planning to quit her show Uttaran in which she essays the double role of Ichcha and her daughter, Meethi. However, Tina refuted the rumours. —HRM
In the upcoming episode of Saath Nibhana Saathiya, Koki punishes Gopi and though Rashi tries to instigate Ahem against Koki, she fails in her endeavour. Meanwhile, Ahem refuses to take Koki’s anger and he stands up for Gopi. Also, Rashi and Urmi manage to widen the gap between Koki and Gopi, which makes Koki feel miserable.
Though unlike other actors, Rohit Roy’s birthday celebrations were bereft of over-the-top pomp and show, the gifts that he received were indeed exceptionally fancy. Rohit celebrated his birthday with his family and received a champagne bottle from his brother Ronit, while his brother-in-law, Sharman Joshi, gifted him a Terre D’Hermes perfume.