Band-wagon rolls on
Music has forever been a balm for the soul and when it is rendered by bands comprising youngsters, one just needs to sit back and ease out. Here’s a quick check on Chandigarh’s best...
Amarjot Kaur

When it comes to exploring its young creative talent, especially in music, Chandigarh unknowingly sabotages its repute of being the artistically impotent town for the retired! Had it not been for the virtue of these young artists and their musical talent, the city hotels and lounges would not have gone beyond the ghazal singers, stationed at a cornered stage, making futile efforts to entertain the disinterested crowd.

The city is now bustling with the music-bar and pub culture that epitomises live music and musicians in a rather fashionable pursuit to increase their clientele. Needless to say, though Hari and Sukhmani propelled the culture, there are a number of bands that are preserving it. If you fancy live music, here is list of bands that will be nothing less than a treat for your ears.

Sweet serendipity They are: Just Ittefaq

Members on board: Jasleen Aulakh (vocalist), Rohit Joshi (lead guitarist), Goldie Naaz (percussionist) and Polly Saghera (lyricist)

Name game: "I just stumbled upon my mother's diary, the contents of which were a series of poems that she had written a long time back. We now use them as lyrics for our songs. Although this was the first coincidence, the second one came along when I was looking for someone to change my guitar strings and Rohit, who was passing by, helped me with the same. Since there were so many coincidences, we thought of naming our band Just Ittefaq," says Jasleen.

Their genre: A mix of folk, Sufi, country and earthy music.

Patent songs: Their original song titled Sapna that's based on the plight of a girl child and Paisa Paisa that talks about power and money.

What are they doing currently: Preparing to launch their album and the video of Paisa Paisa; Jasleen is also gearing up for her folk song in a Kabir Sadanand-directed film Project 36.

Play station: They are presently doing a lot of private gigs and we will be actively performing in Chandigarh during the launch of their album.

Roots and soil They are: Pratyaksh

Members on board: Capt Avtar Singh (production), Himanshu Sharma (percussionist), Ojas Saigal (bass guitarist), Anuj Bansal (lead vocals), Kunal S Kushwah (keyboard), Raveen Singh (drums), Dharamvir Sharma (guitarist), Mahir Chopra (cajon and sound manager) and Prithvi Parmar (guitarist).

Name game: "We wanted the listeners to connect to the roots of Hindi music so we wanted a name in our language that defines us. Pratyaksh means something that does not need any proof and this name best defines us," says Ojas.

Their Genre: Alternative/ rock fusion

Their patent songs: They have performed for NGO Navsankalp for social cause and recently released video song kyun kho gaya insaan in collaboration with Capt Avtar Singh on YouTube. The song is an anti-rape song.

What are they doing currently: Working on their next original composition.

Play station: Every Sunday at hotel Aloft, Zirakpur.

Sufi connect They are: Aayat

Members on board: Aman Suraj (voice and strings), Stanley (voice and strings), Goldie Naaz (percussionist and voice), Jonny (percussionist) and Willy (strings and flute).

Name game: "Aayat refers to the letters of holy scriptures and the word is of Islamic origin; because we do Sufi music, there was nothing more sacred than this name."

Their Genre: Sufi, rock, Indi-rock, jazz and Punjabi folk.

Patent songs: They cover a lot of Sufi and folk artists.

What are they doing currently: They are working on their song, 'Nai Zindagi'.

Play station: Catch them at Peddlers every Saturday.

Bundle of energy They are: Green Chorus

Members on board: Abhishek David (keyboard), Gurnazar (rhythm guitarist and vocalist), Gurkanwar (bass guitarist), Sahil (acoustic lead guitarist and vocalist), Dhupender (drums), Ravi (flute) and Amandeep (lead guitarist).

Name game: The word green suggests freshness that creates a good environment and chorus means group effort.

Their genre: They do not stick to one; they fuse a series of genres, including Punjabi folk and Sufi.

Patent songs: Among various songs that they have sung so far, Tu Si Kalli, Chup Raha Hai Chaand and Yaar Kathe are a cut above the rest.

What are they doing currently: They were chosen among the top eight bands in Channel V Launch Pad last year and this year, they are working on their original tracks.

Play station: You can catch them performing live at Satva, every Wednesday and at 10 Downing Street every Sunday.

Cocktail of sound They are: Swastik

Members on board: Rohit Joshi (lead guitarist and vocalist), Karan (vocalist), Pankaj Verma (bass guitar), Rishabh Kesar (rhythm guitar) and Parth Koser (drums).

Name game: "Swastik, according to Hindu mythology, symbolises prosperity and evokes sacred force, so we thought of naming our band the same," says Rohit.

Their genre: It's the mixed music that has a dash of alternative-Indi rock and Sufi folk.

Patent songs: While Kuch Bhi Karlo is a slow romantic track, Andhere Shaher is based on social issues like child labour, terrorism and sexual harassment.

What are they doing currently: They cleared the zonal round of Channel V Launch Pad in 2011 and won the first prize in IIT Thomso Show at IIT Roorki, and opened for The Indian Ocean. They are presently working on their album.

Play station: You can catch them at Satva, the lounge at Mainland China, every Friday.

Two of a kind They are: Saahil and Ipshita

Members on board: Saahil (acoustic lead guitarist) and Ipshita (vocalist). They are often accompanied by Goldie Naaz (percussionist) and Hipkarsh Channana (lead guitarist).

Name game: "We wanted to keep a simple and obvious name.”

Their genre: They call it a 'genre-less band'.

Patent songs: Their original songs Tu Kamini and Mai Raahi.

What are they doing currently: Compiling an album; the band has already showcased their talent at various music festivals, including The Frost Bite at Daranghati in 2012, among various others.

Play station: You can catch them live at Peddlers every Friday.

amarjot@tribunemail.com

Traditional ties
Artistes from Pro Rodopi Art Centre, Bulgaria, through their puppet shows like the Garbage for Plums, pay a rich tribute to their folklore…
Tanya Malhotra

Todorov Tetar (L) and Mintheva Desislava
CAUSE BOUND: Todorov Tetar (L) and Mintheva Desislava

A man goes door-to-door and offers plums in exchange of garbage; he is actually in search of a wife who is caring and sorted... confused? This is the story of the puppet show titled Garbage for Plums by Bulgarian artists.

Moral values

Based on Bulgarian folklore fairytale, this show is all about action and puppets. It takes us back to the roots of our tradition, to our forgotten values; where moral lessons were taught. "It's very logical; this is the best way to impart values to kids. While they may or may not understand the complexity behind them, they sure would never forget the lesson learnt. The almost mute fairytale communicates in a universal way," says Todorov Tetar, writer, director and producer.

Woman power

Actress Mintheva Desislava leads the stage all alone, exuding energy all the way. "You have to balance your act as you go about a solo performance. It is difficult, but a challenge to prove yourself professionally, which makes it very interesting," she says.

Act two

The artistes have performed in many countries like Germany, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Israel and Spain. Recently, they also performed in Delhi and won widespread appreciation. According to him, the Indian audience is very emotional and can analyse well.

Moving around

"We have heard so much about Chandigarh and now that we are here, we would love to go see the famous Rock Garden and walk around the city for a while," echo the artistes as they pack their bags, all geared up to explore.

Different take
Filmmaker Raj Kumar Gupta wants to explore new themes with every project...
Jasmine Singh

Out-of-the-box is the word…in business ventures, in creative fields and even in relationships. These are the same words that make filmmaker Raj Kumar Gupta think, act and make films that are different. From Aamir, No One Killed Jessica, and now Vidya Balan and Emraan Hashmi starrer Ghanchakkar, this director would walk and even run an extra mile to bring a fresh whiff to his films.

Says Raj Kumar Gupta, "As a director-writer I would want to explore areas that haven't been touched before; I would want to bring in a certain new element into my films." Raj has a knack of shooting and exploring subjects that make the audience sit up and notice. He only laughs in a measured fashion, "I would do that consciously, so that the subject looks fresh." The director feels he has to be convinced before he brings anything on screen.

"The characters, the situation and the sets should be convincing enough to translate them into a film." Ghanchakkar is a much talked about project; if news here and there is to be believed Vidya Balan took a long time to say yes? Again a measured laugh, "First and foremost, I wanted to explore a different genre; the process of writing was tiring, I was stuck to my computer for long. This seemed like a process that wouldn't end," adds the director. "As for Vidya, she did take time to say yes to the project. Had she said no, I wouldn't have gone ahead with it."

Ghanchakkar shows Vidya in a typically loud Punjabi housewife avatar. Emraan Hashmi, on the other hand, plays a conman who has lost his memory. "It is a struggle with every movie; Aamir was not an easy battle, but yes things become less difficult after a certain time. This, however, doesn't take me away from the idea of executing a different subject," he says. Raj explores the chemistry between actors in a wonderful manner, "Vidya plays Emraan's wife in the film and I have only portrayed what a normal couple is like. I am sure the audience will love to watch these characters." Raj wrote the script for Barah Aana, but wasn't really happy at how it had finally shaped up. "It is as simple as this, if a director gets to work on a self-written script, then understanding and execution is easier," says Raj.

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Par Excellence
Joint effort
Squat to improve your golf
Jesse Grewal

The overhead deep squat is the most important exercise/test for golf fitness. The ability to perform this test requires good ankle movement (dorsi-flexion), ability to bend correctly from the knees and hips (flexion) as well as extension of the thoracic spine. which is the ability to pull your shoulders back and keep your chest extended. If there is a weakness in any of these areas you will not be able to perform this exercise. Therefore, it tests almost all the golf-specific muscles as well as joints and is the most important test.

To do a deep overhead squat take a bar/golf club and hold it directly over your head (picture 1). The hands should be positioned so that the elbows are at 90 degrees (picture 6). Then squat down keeping your back straight till the knees go past a 90 degree bended position (picture 2). Do not let the heels get off the ground. Do not let the back bend forward (picture 3). The knees should maintain their width (picture 7) and not go either outwards or inwards.

If your heels get off the ground it will be impossible for you to maintain your posture through the swing. You will tend to thrust your lower body towards the ball on the downswing which leads to the upper body getting up and losing the spine angle. This could be caused by tightness in the calves and/or lack of pelvic stability due to poor core muscles.

If the upper body bends forward it is a limitation of the thoracic spine to extend and immobile lat muscles. This would also cause the ‘C’ posture’. 

To improve the overhead deep squat, do an assisted squat. Either hold on to a bar/golf club placed vertically in front of you (picture 4) or use a swiss/foot ball placed behind your back (picture 5). If the core muscles are weak the bar helps in reducing the load and if the thoracic spine does not extend well the ball helps us not to bend forward as we have to keep the back erect to press against it.

(Grewal has coached several national champions and professionals apart from being coach of the Indian golf team for the Eisenhower Cup (World Cup) in 2008. He is currently the Director of National Golf Academy of India and CGA Hero Honda Golf Academy. If you have any queries get in touch with him at parexcellence@tribunemail.com)

Spring in step
The team at dance facilitation centre, Dance Dacha, packs a punch
Tanya Malhotra

Are you looking for some familiar faces who have trained over four thousand students in the last three-and-a-half years? If you are, the search ends here. “We have shifted our institute from Sector 18 to the premises of the British School, Sector 44, Chandigarh, for betterment,” says Jaskshan (Jasmeet Kaur Shan), the dance facilitator at Dance Dacha.

She adds, “The most famous concept that we have been using is the Dan-Yog technique for the morning classes, which is a mix of dance and yoga. It’s a five-day class that starts with Rumba for body conditioning and toning, Bhangra for self-expression, Bollywood stretching and relaxation; power yoga for high energy level and self-defense for core muscle training.”

Egyptian Belly Dancing is also very popular with them as well as the students who come to them. Jaskshan adds, “The tradition of belly dancing is magnificent and much beyond Shakira’s moves. It was earlier used as an exquisite dance for exercising. With Western influences, the form became more of entertainment than a health regime. We hope to bring the tradition back. We have received a great response and men love it too although they don’t like to go out and talk about it.”

Gurjot Shan, interior designer, talks about the ambience of the studio. She says, “Dance increases energy. While a blend of bright and neutral colours, we have made sure that it is soothing and welcoming. Also, we have used wooden flooring. Starting from Rs 1,600 onwards till Rs 2,500, the fee is also quite reasonable.”

Master Chef
Food goes festive !
Kandla Nijhowne

There's fast-food, and there is fast -food. One is sinfully rich and calories laden, quickly turned out at cafes and roadside carts ; the other fast-food is what "vrat" keepers consume during Navratraas and other festive times. We bring our fasting friends a refreshingly different version of a Swedish delicacy called Roesti. It can be made with sweet potatoes or the good old potato itself.

Sweet potato Pan Pizza

Ingredients
500 gm sweet potatoes or potato, peeled
1-2 green chillies, chopped
"Saindha namak" to taste
1 tbsp grated ginger
3 tbsp sabudana
2 tbsp ghee or oil

Optional additions:
100 gm paneer,crumbled
2-3 tbsp cashews or almonds
2 tbsp "raamdana"
2-3 tbsp chopped "makhaana"

Method
Grate potato (or sweet potato), squeeze out excess moisture.
Soak the sabudaana briefly, then add to the grated mixture along with ginger, chillies and seasoning.
Heat oil in a heavy frying pan.
Shape the mixture into a large mound. Place in the middle of the hot pan, and then flatten out so that it looks like pizza.
Cover and cook for 3-4 minutes or until the grated bits are firm and fused.
Use a wide spatula to flip over the "pizza" and cook further. The surface should look golden brown by the time it is done.
Remove carefully and cut into wedges.
Serve with chutney or a fruit-salsa as a side dish.

(Nijhowne is a Chandigarh-culinary expert)

TRENDSETTER
Cool & chic

Somebody who is making heads turn and has real panache when it comes to dressing is our trendsetter Rajani Muthal, a fashion designer.

Your sense of style

I love to mix and match; play with colours while keeping my look casual and simple.

The latest addition to your accessories

My new Tissot watch.

Brand crazy or street pick-ups

Totally a brand freak.

Who is your style icon

Priyanka Chopra.

Who do you think is the worst-dressed celebrity

Vidya Balan.

The look you prefer?

Chic.

One fashion trend that is beyond your comprehension

Boys wearing coloured jeans.

Your take on accessories

I just love to accessorise.

A designer you would like to be dressed by?

Valentino.

What gives your confidence a high?

When I am looking presentable enough, it makes me feel good.

—As told to Poonam Bindra

Dress up

Pump up your style with Trendy Divva's latest value range collection especially launched for the summers. The glamour wardrobe goes penny wise at Trendy Divva stores, to cater to the needs of every woman who wants to look like a diva.

Here you can find gorgeous array of trendy, chic, classy dresses, tops, skirts, pants for any occasion. Replace your little black dress with white knee length dress for summer parties. Sheer and floral are on top of the list for all shopaholics. Gurprit Singh Sawhney, promoter, Trendy Divva says, "As we are a customer oriented brand, we were getting the feedback from college going girls to start a pocket friendly range. So this summer we have launched our value range which includes everything, our design team has put in all the efforts to bring out the best quality at competitive prices." — TNS

Stylish spread
Tanya Malhotra

If you're done with the same old room and the clichéd bedcovers, its time to bring in some change and make your room all the more exciting with the revolutionised designs of bed sheets and covers in the market. And now that we are in summer, a blend of cool and classy is what we aim for. Here, Mango Spreads, the new furnishings and home decor brand in the circuit has all of this and much more to offer! Promising to be urbane, classy and elegant at the same time, the whole new collection of the brand has caught much attention!

A sneak peek

As we walk in the first thing that catches our eye is the gorgeous assortment of bed sheets with the fabric from Bombay Dying infused with embroidery and patch work. Also, its includes some very exquisite hand-painted block prints with the range starting from Rs 3500 going up to Rs 7000. Another set of the bed sheet displays use of net along with the mix of subtle colour combination of golden and white, silver and red and likewise. In this, every bedcover includes a set of five handpicked cushion covers to add to the splendor. This range starts from Rs 8000. Apart from that, the digital and net prints in quilts are available for Rs 7000 going up to Rs 9000. "Also we have introduced our latest collection of duvet covers and comforters which is a relatively new concept in Chandigarh," says Aavika Ganeriwala, Owner, Mango Spreads.

Classy make-over

Exhibiting the invigorating range of these products at the inauguration of Mango Spread, at Sector 5, Chandigarh, on Saturday, Aavika says, "While we have selected a premium texture of the fabrics, every piece is crafted marvellously." She is a graduate in Commerce and Management from Cass Business School in UK.

star track
Candid opinion

Rapper Nicki Minaj feels she is brutally honest to the talent show contestants because she cares deeply for them.

The 30-year-old singer, who is currently judging American Idol, is known for her harsh comments to the hopefuls in the show.

“I know that sometimes when I speak in a really blunt way like I do, people take that as me not loving and caring about these people. But I really do, I feel like they’re family to me,” she said.

Nicki MinajMinaj said it does upset her when some of the contestants are eliminated. “I mean, when I see someone come from nothing, and their family just lost everything in Hurricane Katrina, and they had to rebuild ... I remember my own childhood, and I remember how many children are out there suffering now ... Burnell, not only did he have such a beautiful story, but he had such a unique voice and unique spirit. So yeah, those tears were real for Burnell.” — PTI
Right concern: Nicki Minaj

Emraan in for a change

Most of Emraan Hashmi’s films have received an ‘A’ certificate, making his movies fit only for adults’ viewing. However, some of his recent films, including the upcoming Ek Thi Daayan, got a U/A certification, and the actor feels it is a “welcome change”.

“Probably, this (Ek Thi Daayan) is my second or third film with U/A certificate, but it’s a welcome change,” Emraan said in an interview.

“It is said that with U/A certificate, the audience increases by 15 to 20 per cent. I am hoping that a larger audience embraces this film,” added the 34-year-old, who was tagged as Bollywood’s ‘serial kisser’ after locking lips with different actresses in various films.

In Ek Thi Daayan, a co-production by Ekta Kapoor and Vishal Bhardwaj, Emraan plays a magician, while the thriller also stars Kalki Koechlin, Konkona Sen Sharma and Huma Qureshi.

He hopes Ek Thi Daayan is also lapped up by the audience. “I just want to say that this film in many ways takes an extremely different step towards supernatural horror. I think it is a film that will grow, its a film that people will love for its story, for its content,” Emraan said.

Emraan HashmiHe said Ek Thi Daayan takes the supernatural and horror element into a new terrain. “Ek Thi Daayan is unlike what you have seen. There is no benchmark as such. I have done Raaz 3 last year (2012), and I think Ek Thi Daayan takes that further into a completely new terrain. I think it’s a nice film,” he added.

This is Emraan’s third collaboration with Balaji Motion Pictures, and the actor admits he has developed a very fruitful relationship with the banner. Directed by Kannan Iyer, Ek Thi Daayan releases April 19. — IANS
Magic man: Emraan Hashmi

Charting her own course

Discouragement and distrust are what producer Ekta Kapoor faced when she decided to make movies. But she took it with a pinch of salt and made a mark in filmdom by churning out hit movies on a wide range of topics — from underworld to supernatural thrillers — and proving naysayer wrong.

“When I did television, I was told that I cannot do movies and I won’t be able to understand the medium. People thought my movies will be all about jewellery and ‘saas-bahu’,” Ekta said in an interview.

In television world, she made an impressive beginning in 1995 with the comedy show Hum Paanch about a couple with five daughters. It turned out to be a huge success and changed the fortune of Ekta, then a plump 20-year-old who was carrying the legacy of being actor Jeetendra’s daughter.

After that, she produced over 70 shows under Balaji Telefilms, which is now a 19-year-old banner, and includes the long forgotten successful noon show Itihaas. She also made Koshish... Ek Aasha as well as Kyunkii... Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii, Kkusum ... Ek Aam Ladki Ki Kahani and Kasautii Zindagii Kay.

Balaji Telefilms also produced horror and supernatural shows for the small screen — Mano Ya Na Mano and Koi Aane Ko Hai, to name a few.

Thanks to her stupendous success, she was crowned the small screen’s czarina.

She replicated the same success with aplomb on the big screen by making hit feature films — underworld thriller Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai, Ragini MMS on a real life scandal and biopic The Dirty Picture — under her moviemaking banner Balaji Motion Pictures.

“Whenever you change your medium, you have to prove yourself again. One has to come out of the comfort zone again and again and again. My innings in films had a lot of struggle, but I enjoyed it,” said the 37-year-old.

She collaborated with Sanjay Gupta to co-produce Shootout At Lokhandwala and now the two are coming out with its prequel Shootout at Wadala. There is no dearth of content in her films.

Asked from where she takes her inspiration for stories, Ekta said: “People inspire me the most. I love talking to people and I love knowing about their lives. I always believe that there has to be some inspiration in whatever you do, but it does not have to be from people you personally know.”

Ekta had earned flak from critics for promoting regressive views through her saas-bahu TV sagas. “I did so many TV shows and I never thought that it would be possible that people won’t generalise the shows. In TV shows, you don’t have time for effects; you just have time for content. Now everyone is doing what I did,” she said proudly.

Ekta KapoorShe has a very simple mantra when it comes to taking criticism. “I take criticism very well, but I cannot take criticism that is put badly. You have to put it in the right way and then I will take it in the right way,” said Ekta, who continues to entertain TV audiences while courting the big screen.

Successful in both the mediums, Ekta feels fame should not stop one from pursuing passion and being creative. “Success is the ability to do the work that you want to do. If you can do that, then you are bloody successful. You can make a lot of money, but if that money will tie you down to creating more money, then there is probably no fun in it. Success is when you make money but also when you use that money to do what you always wanted to do,” she said.

She is currently looking forward to the release of the supernatural thriller Ek Thi Daayan, which she has co-produced with Vishal Bhardwaj. — IANS
Making a mark: Ekta Kapoor

Spicy Indian treat for Brangelina

Angelina Jolie arranged for spicy Indian delicacies like lamb bhuna, chicken korma and Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt chicken tikka to be made in London for her to fly home to fiancé Brad Pitt.

While on an official trip, Jolie arranged for a special consignment of the three dishes picked up from Pitt’s favourite curry house in Surrey. “Brad is back in America and has been longing for a decent curry. He really misses their Indian takeaway nights from when they lived in Surrey last year. Angelina arranged as a surprise for a load of it to be cooked and flash-freeze packed for her to fly home,” said a source.

“She sent her bodyguard Ray and eldest son Maddox to collect it and to stock up with more treats. They even got a load of Kingfisher and Cobra beer for Brad to wash it all down with,” the source added. — IANS
Special meal: Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt

Daddy’s darling

Newbie Shraddha Kapoor, daughter of actor Shakti Kapoor, says she did not like her father playing a villain in films.

“I used to shout at him for doing villain roles. I used to be sad about it (playing villain). But then my mother explained he is just acting,” Shraddha said in an interview. In the nineties, Shakti ventured into comic roles. “I loved him in comic roles. In real life he is very funny,” Shraddha said. — PTI

The fake inking

Ryan Gosling Notebook star Ryan Gosling regretted getting a fake face tattoo for new movie The Place Beyond The Pines.

Gosling, 32, who plays a bad boy who turns to crime to help support his baby, wanted to show his character’s questionable lifestyle choices through his tattoos.

“We (I and director Derek Cianfrance) wanted to make the tattoos look a mess, from someone who lived a life of not thinking things through and making bad decisions. When I went for the tattoo, I thought, this is stupid, this is dumb, I can’t do this,” Gosling said.

However, Cianfrance was unsympathetic and ordered Gosling to put up with the fake inking.

“And Derek was like ‘Well, that’s how most people feel about their face tattoos’. I didn’t even want to look at myself in the mirror. I felt like I knew what he (the character) was like. When I was holding Tony Pizza, the kid who plays our child, I just felt ashamed this person I created was his father,” he added. — PTI

Tattoo trauma: Ryan Gosling

Fatigue toughest part of parenthood: Matt Damon

Actor Matt Damon, who has three daughters, admits he enjoys fatherhood, but tackling sleeplessness is tough. Damon has daughters Isabella, six, Gia Zalava, four and Stella Zavala, two, with wife Luciana Barroso.

Matt Damon“Fatherhood is something I have always wanted to do. Although sleeplessness is the toughest part,” said Damon.

Although he is a family man and widely seen as likeable, the 42-year-old star isn’t sure why people actually like him so much. “Niceness is not something I set out to achieve by holding myself to a certain standard of behaviour. I don’t know why people like me. I am glad they do and I am glad they still go and see my movies,” he said. — IANS
Doting dad: Matt Damon

chatter box
Addicted to telly town

Pooja Banerjee, the beautiful Bengali lass from Nagpur, who rose to fame on the front burner of Roadies 8, is full of positive energy and it comes across in her full-throated laughter. She is currently playing the role of Rudrani in the show, Sai Baba, and she is seen in Gajendra Singh's first TV show, Ghar Aaja Pardesi that is telecast on Sahara One. Pooja is a national level swimmer, athlete, dancer, and choreographer. She talks to Life+Style about the show, her passions and more...

How do you feel after being a part of Ghar Aaja Pardesi?

It's always wonderful to work with big banners as you get to learn so much. Also, I had a great time being a part of the show and I am loving every bit of it.

How did you get the role of Rudrani?

I received a call from Saibaba Telefilms for auditions and screen test and the rest is history. I am glad to be portraying a character that every actor wants to do.

How is this show different from the others?

This one is Gajendra Singh's first fiction show on Television. The show has seasoned actors, including Vikram Gokhale, Smita Jaykar, Mahesh Thakur and Ruchi Savarn. Moreover, the making of the show is very different from the others.

What is your most memorable moment on the sets?

Of late, I received a compliment from my co-stars and producers and they said that I looked beautiful in all the scenes. That was my most memorable moment on the sets so far.

How was the outdoor shooting experience?

Varanasi is a mysterious and holistic town. It has its own persona and landscape. While shooting in Varanasi, I watched sadhus meditating on the ghats and it was a very different and beautiful experience.

How was it working with Vikram Gokhale and Smita Jayakar?

They are both seasoned and experienced actors and it was amazing to work with them.

What are your expectations from your character, Rudrani?

My character is layered with different emotions and situations. She is modern, confident and a very loving girl. I have great expectations from my character because it is very close to my heart.

Tell us something about the show

Pooja BanerjeeGhar Aaja Pardesi is a story of an Indian family from Varanasi. Going by the current track, Rudrani who has been staying in London with her parents comes to India in search for her grandfather and that's how she lands in Varanasi.

What do you think about Tellywood?

I think television industry is lovely. Once you are in it, you do not want to leave it.
— Dharam Pal
Great Expectations: Pooja Banerjee

Completing a full circle

Aamir Dalvi has abundantly talented and he has proved his worth in several shows, including Chhal Sheh Aur Maat and Gumrah. He is currently doing a show called, Hum Ne Li Hai... Shapath and with us, he shares his experiences and alternate plans about his career…

Why did you disappear after shooting a couple of shows?

Yes, post Chhal and Gumrah nothing great came my way. The TV industry changes a bit with every passing year. A while ago, you saw only newcomers, but now experienced actors are in demand. Therefore, I was waiting for a good opportunity.

You also have website?

Yes, I have a one on photography. While most people think that actors don't have to care about expenses, one needs to understand that television industry is very uncertain. So, it is best to have an alternate source of income.

How does it feel like working the show, Shapath, which has many outdoor shoots?

It is not easy because controlling the crowd while taking shots becomes very difficult. Also, one tends to get a little conscious or distracted while working withAamir Dalvi the crowd. However, you should not let that bother you. Moreover, its fun to get out of the studios and shoot in real locations.

You are perhaps one of the few actors who choose to play, both negative and positive roles. What makes you do that?

I choose my projects carefully because I want to surprise my audience. Playing black, white or grey characters is interesting if the script is written well.

Tell us something about your personal life…

I have a wife and two kids. My daughter's name is Rashu and my son's name is Abir. They are the centre of my universe and I am very happy with them.

Playing safe: Aamir Dalvi

Animation, action and adventure

Sachin Tendulkar's extraordinary talent has wooed the audience during the cricket matches and this time he is making his television debut in an animated avatar. Sachin confirms that he will be starring in a 3D CGI action, comedy and adventure animation series called Master Blasters, which is co-produced by Shemaroo Entertainment Ltd and Moonscoop LLC. He has been appointed by The Programme for International Training of Cricket Heroes (PITCH).

This is the first show of its kind in which an Indian cricketer will be seen in an animated avatar on international television. The show comprises 26 episodes and each episode will be 22 minute long. According to the story line, Sachin will head a training camp for the finest young cricket talents from around the world.

Sachin TendulkarInterestingly, in the show, the kids play a series of competitive matches in a high-tech cricket stadium, which looks like a spaceship that can actually fly and land anywhere in the world! Meanwhile, another cricket camp, headed by the envious cricket star Peter, is secretly determined to humiliate Sachin's protégés by any means possible! The show will feature Sachin as the central character along with twelve kids and a dog.

Sachin Tendulkar says, "I have always been fascinated with the world of animation and have enjoyed watching it with my children. The challenge for the production team will be to impart human values to the kids, while they continue to entertain them. It will indeed be a unique experience to see one's own rendition on the animated screen, performing larger than life actions that are much beyond the limitation of the real world!"
Concern for kids: Sachin Tendulkar

In happy space

She began her career with a show called Khamoshiyan and over time, Mrunal Thakur has gained a lot of experience. Though the show started with a bang, it ended soon enough. Mrunal is currently essaying another role in the show called Arjun and she shares her experiences with us.

What is your role in the detective show, Arjun?

I play the role of a journalist, Sakshi Anand, who helps the ETF team. Besides the new look, I am excited about the character that I play because it is different and fun. Sakshi is an intelligent girl who adds humour to the show that primarily focuses on the serious concerns of the ETF team.

How was your experience while working with Khamoshiyan different from Arjun?

My character in Arjun is entirely different from the one that I play in Khamoshiyan. The character that I play in Arjun is exactly how I am in real life!

How did you feel when Khamoshiyan, the show you made your debut on television with, ended so abruptly?

Mrunal ThakurThe fate of a show depends on the audience and the creative team. When Khamoshiyan went off air, I felt bad because I was really attached to it. Nevertheless, everything comes to an end. I am happy with the response that the show Arjun is getting from the audience.

What do you think of the TV industry now as opposed to when you joined?

Over the years, I have learnt that nothing is permanent. You may have a show today and tomorrow you might not. I think all depends on the amount of opportunities you get.

What's next in store for you?

Presently, I am focusing on Arjun. Also, I am doing a play with Manoj Varma in Dubai called Do Phool Char Maali.
Busy bee: Mrunal Thakur

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: You draw "Two of cups". Relationships will be in the limelight today. There will be some conflicts due to stubbornness, ego and pride. Work hard to retain the integrity and purity of your relationship. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Ebony. Lucky number: 25

TAURUS: Focusing on your budget and planning a long-term savings strategy will be the highlighted. Don't let the monotony of work get to you. Take care of your health. Tarot message: Play your cards fairly. Lucky colour: Red. Lucky number: 42

GEMINI: Love and romance will be in your mind today. Situation at home will be peaceful and calm. Do not form hasty opinions. Your future plans will seem realistic and achievable. Tarot message: Take no chances despite the assurance of people. Lucky colour: Yellow. Lucky number: 52

CANCER: "The queen of cups" says that communication will continue to be rather vital today. There will be some delays and postponements, but do not stress yourself too much. Tarot message: Don't reveal your plan of action to anyone. Lucky colour: Royal Blue. Lucky number: 29

LEO: Work and professional endeavors will be the highlighted. Relationships will become stronger along with your financial position. Do not let the festive season take its toll, either on your budget or on your wellbeing. Tarot message: Have faith in your abilities. Lucky colour: Crimson. Lucky number: 33

VIRGO: New relationships and associations will benefit you, personally and professionally. Finances will be strong. An improvement in your health will give you an additional buoyancy. Tarot message: A positive and caring attitude heals old wounds. Lucky colour : Pale yellow. Lucky number: 65

LIBRA: Lovers, friends and partners will be quite aggressive and demanding. However, you will be able to deal with this easily. Stay alert and focused at work to keep up with the developments. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid the inbuilt delays. Lucky colour: Green. Lucky number: 60

SCORPIO: Your mental, physical and emotional state will endow you with a sense of peace and calmness. You will be open to taking on more challenges and responsibilities at work with your confidence. Tarot message: Strive for perfection at work. Lucky colour : Golden-brown. Lucky number: 36

SAGITTARIUS: The flow on money would continue. You will be particularly sensitive. Professionally, you will be able to come up with some creative ideas that will be well-received. Tarot message: Involve yourself as much as possible in new project. Lucky colour: Crimson. Lucky number: 50

CAPRICORN: The time is just right to put everything in perspective and remove the element of chaos and confusion. Be on the guard against legal aggravations and errors due to retro gradation of Mercury. Tarot message: Do not leave things to chance. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Lucky number: 57

AQUARIUS: You will be able to come closer to your loved ones with the flow of ideas, communication and emotions today. You diligence will help you earn the respect of your co-workers. Tarot message: Do not avoid any complicated matter. Lucky colour: White. Lucky number: 63

PISCES: Businessmen will face some conflict of interest with partners. Support your family members. Its time you restore your sense of balance and harmony. Avoid investing in risky ventures. Tarot message: You need to think more about long term interests. Lucky colour: Grey. Lucky number: 4





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