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Line by line
When poetry, roots and heritage form a part of the inspiration, coming up with meaningful lyrics and beautiful renditions is not difficult. Rather, what's "difficult is to kill yourself and come up with something that is totally dedicated to the market and its trends," says Ravi Sheen, the singer, composer and co-music director for the National Award-winning Punjabi film Nabar. It is not the first instance of creativity giving way to commercial restraints, but he held his ground and waited for the things to fall in the right place.
"There was absolutely nothing difficult about giving music for Nabar. In fact, it's a proud moment to be associated with quality cinema," he shares, fresh on the high of yet another recognition for the movie at the Punjabi International Film Festival (PIFF) at Toronto. The film is a family drama that focuses on fly-by-night immigration operators who mislead the unwary youngsters by making promises to send them abroad. It is the story of a farmer from Punjab who takes up the vow to fight injustice meted out by illegal immigration agents, which led to his son's death. For him, it was more about getting into the skin of the serious cinema and lending music that enhanced the story-telling. "When anybody makes a song these days, they want to garner maximum attention of the audience in the first three minutes. That's the whole objective," shares the Chandigarh-based director. "For me, my theatrical background helps me imagine the situation, relate to characters and come up with lyrics." An endeavour that is a departure from today's music industry and its norms! "Today's music doesn't appeal much to me. First of all, the lyrics are killing the quality of music. My influences and icons are the likes of Jagjit Singh and Gurdaas Maan," shares the pass-out from SD College. Post a graduation in instrumental music, it was Department of Indian Theatre at Panjab University, "I started my career with a solo album in 2000 called Main Te Chand, followed by an acting stint in Mahiya. A first break as music director came with the movie Atu Khoji." As for Nabar, the film is slated for an international release in August. Coming up are two albums, of which one is a solo endeavour dedicated to the sacrifices of history's greatest icons. "There are eight songs and I have written, sung and composed all of them. The songs are dedicated to Kartar Singh Sarabha, Udham Singh and Shaheed Bhagat Singh. I would call it progressive singing."
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It’s time to dig
Satish Narula
When the sky is overcast and visibility is reduced, there is a sparkle in the eyes of the gardeners. The active period starts. There are many a thing to do; some need immediate attention and others need at least planning. Gardening is nothing but proper planning and timing and you get dividends. You must have thought of growing some fruit plants in your garden in the ensuing planting season. But did you know that you had to plan it at least a month in advance? First thing is to decide which fruit you want to have in your garden. If it is any of the evergreen fruit plants like that of citrus species (kinnow, lemon, sweet orange, sweet lime, lime etc) or guava, chicku etc, then July-August is the best time. For litchi we advise to wait till October when the weather sufficiently cools down. But the planting has not to be done just like that. And before the rains starts, this is the final call for making preparations. The plantation should be done only in properly made pits. Before digging the pit, go for the site selection. Irrespective of the species that you select, all the fruit trees need the sun for a good number of hours. So do not select a place that is shady. A pit with specific dimensions should be dug to plant fruit trees. It should be 3 ft deep with equal diameter. The top soil excavated from the upper half of the pit should be kept on one side. An equal quantity of well rotten farmyard manure should be mixed with this and pit should be refilled with this mixture. Do not forget to add 30 gm follidol 2 per cent powder per pit. Fill the pit about six inches above soil level. The soil will settle to ground level when once watered. This should be done before the actual planting. In case soil settles after planting, the plant bends and later in life may break under its own weight. Those who were working to lay a fresh lawn should hurry up to finish the task of preparation of soil. The pre-monsoon showers should be utilised to see the level of the soil. Wherever there is stagnation of water, it is sure sign of undulations. Correct the level by adding more soil. If not done, the water will stagnate at such sites and the grass will be brown or yellow forming patches. Those who had not exposed the soil to the summer sun should do so without wasting time. You may get once again a few days heat. In case you have already done that then the showers may initiate the growth in weeds that should immediately be pulled out with roots. (The author is a Chandigarh-based horticulturist)
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Leaf impression
"When it comes to art, I like experimenting," says Mukesh Kumar, who hails from Patna and is pursuing his masters in fine arts in Chandigarh.
While exhibiting his works on Nature series at Art Portfolio, Mukesh explores creative spaces, which extend much respite to his creativity and adds a new dimension to his exploits. Though most of his work is inspired by nature, especially lotus leaves and water, Mukesh experiments with a spatula as he pains oil and acrylic on canvas. "I like experimenting with different mediums for which I use a spatula to create a low relief," says Mukesh. As you walk around the gallery, you may find the works on display to be a little too repetitive because of the subject, but Mukesh plays with shades and light to add much variation to his paintings. His attempt, however, finds justification in the painting where he plays with different shades of yellow to create an impression of the leaf's image, to which he tenders his signature low-relief touch. The paintings are priced between Rs 24,300 to Rs 54,000. Mukesh has been painting for over 8 years now and this is fourth solo exhibition in the city. He has also exhibited his work in Patna in several group and solo exhibitions. On till June 20. amarjot@tribunemail.com
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Of birthday and bouquets
Saif Ali Khan has got sun burnt for his role in Tigmanshu Dhulia’s Bullet Raja. He plays a raw gangster in the film. He was even mad at the organisers of his recent commercial shoot because they did not take proper permission for the landing of his helicopter, in Jaipur.
The casting ouch!
Aamir Khan was present with his mother at Jiah Khan’s prayer meeting and he broke down as he prayed for her. Also present were Deepika Padukone, Sanjay Khan, Atul Kasbekar, Suraj Panscholi and others.
Getting to know Richa Chadda
Theatrical traits
I come from a theatre background but I do not have the time to do theatre these days. I cannot lie so I have given up theatre for some time. I know there will come a time when I will be able to dictate terms to people and that's when I will give more time and attention to theatre because it deserves a lot of dedication. Skin friendly
The nation is obsessed with fair skin. It is not our fault if we have dark skin. People should aim for clear and healthy skin instead of fair skin. When I am abroad, I get appreciated for my darker skin tone because they are bored of their pale skin. Status update
I am single because which guy is going to deal with his girlfriend being in different cities every day? I will get married of course, and I am happy that it does not hamper the career of actresses anymore. Look at Kajol and Karisma, they are getting more endorsements than ever and Kareena and Vidya have their diaries full too.
Million dollar deal
Kate’s on good behaviour
Supermodel Kate Moss has reportedly been heavily detoxifying in Turkey, Bodrum, enjoying a week long programme which includes pilates, yoga and stretching sessions. Moss, 39, often pictured smoking or enjoying a glass of champagne, is said to be surviving on juice, fresh herbs and daily enemas as part of her health kick, reported a publication online. "Kate has detoxed here before and lost three-a-half kilos - she absolutely loved it. She really enjoys being healthy, eating clean and not drinking, and while the gym is not her natural calling, she does enjoy the odd spot of yoga. "Kate feels detoxed and reckons her skin looks much clearer already," a source said.
— PTI
Karan Johar praises Lunchbox
Filmmaker Karan Johar, who saw Ritesh Batra's The Lunchbox over the weekend, is all praise for the film.
"To feel happy and sad at the movies..to feel limited and elated at the movies..to learn and applaud a genius love story. LUNCHBOX made my day," he tweeted. "Irrfan is possibly the acting barometer of indian cinema....his silence screams...his every pause resonates...he is calibre personified... Nawazuddin Siddiqui..sheer and pure Genius..swiftly becoming the celluloid chameleon..portraying almost any character to perfection. And finally Nimrat Kaur is the soul of #LUNCHBOX...projecting marital angst...urban depression and longing for love like a legend actor....," he added. "Take a bow....Ritesh Batra....this box needs to travel...but the first stop must be ours!!! #LUNCHBOX....," he added further. The film is about a lunchbox sent by a housewife that is wrongly delivered to a stranger and how this starts a relationship via a daily exchange.
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Back on telly
Anuj Sachdev is following in the footsteps of Farhan Khan, the main lead in Sony’s Chhanchhan. After he quit the show Phir Subah Hogi, he is back with this television show. We catch up.
How did you get Chhanchhan? I was offered the project and I took it up. I saw the promos and felt the show has potential. I didn’t check TRPs as they can’t decide if you have the talent or not. How do feel about replacing Farhan Khan? That wasn’t my call so what can I say? How can I compare? Probably he might do better in life after this. What do you think of Sanaya Irani who is your co-star in the show? I think we will look good on screen. She is a lovely person and a good actor. My old friend Barun Sobti worked with her, so I had met her earlier. What did you do post Phir Subah Hogi? I was occupied with films. I have a Punjabi film, which will release in September, and a Hindi film that will come next year. But when I got this offer, I spoke to the production guys who agreed to be flexible with my schedule. They are good people so I took it on. Doing films and television seems to be the new norm? Yes, maybe it is. This show won’t harm my career. Nowadays, there isn’t much difference between doing television and films. Many people are doing it.
It’s time to play
Producer Suhana Sinha (wife of producer Nikhil Sinha) and actor Amit Tandon have jointly opened Play Around, an indoor play centre for children in Mumbai. A happy child is a healthy child is the philosophy behind the centre. Suhana Sinha says, “I wanted to do something for children. I had observed play centres abroad so I wanted to open one here. Our fraternity friends turned up to wish on our big day of opening and it was such a good feeling to see kids having fun. The feedback was fantastic.” Amit Tandon adds, “I have worked on it religiously for the last one year and I am happy that finally this dream has become a reality to give children of Mumbai their very own place to enjoy, relax and play. We have done our best to offer them and parents everything under one roof and am amazed and overwhelmed at the response we have received." Many celebrities attended. Producer Nikhil Sinha was seen engrossed in long conversation with Mohit Raina. Gautam Rode had turned up directly from his hectic shoot to attend the event. Mouni Roy was seen at her cheerful best and she was seen on the slide too. Avinash Wadhawan was seen on the slide alongside producer Nikhil Sinha. Ashita Dhwan was seen checking out all the rides along with her little ones. Iqbal Khan was the first one to arrive with wife
and daughter. Mohit Raina made head turns as soon as he entered. Many fans had clicked pictures with him. Mohit was seen in a very cheerful mood.Sadhil Kapoor who plays Ganesha was seen enjoying to the hilt. Designer Neerusha and Kamya Punjabi were seen having a good time.
Makers of Uttaran are in talks with Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hai actress Niaa Sharma for a new show on Zee TV. While her show will soon end, this one will be about two families with Rajasthan in the backdrop.
Horror flick for Nishant
Mouni bereaved
Mouni Roy, who is busy doing Life Ok’s Junoon-Aisi Nafrat Toh Kaisa
Ishq, is bereaved. Her father passed away a few days ago. She has left to be with her family and will be a on a break for a few days.
Salman Khan has renewed his contract with Colors and will be hosting Bigg Boss season 7. He will be shooting a promo for the show next month and the reality show will go on air in September.
Believing in dreams
In the upcoming episodes of Diya Aur Baati Hum, Sooraj gets dejected about the second matka breaking. Later, however, he realises that Sandhya must be in pain too and hence motivates her that they’ll save the third matka. On the DSP’s advice, Sooraj subscribes to newspapers and magazines to help sandhya in her studies, for which bhabho fires Sooraj. Sandhya feels she is shaking up the relationship of Bhabho and Sooraj and gets into a dilemma; on one hand Sooraj is supportive and on the other hand Bhabho is upset – due to Sandhya’s Dream. Whose wishes should she follow? Will Sooraj be able to make her believe in her dreams again?
In the upcoming episodes of Yeh Rishta Kya Kahlata Hai, Akshara feels a little odd to find Ankit at the tailor shop. Later, Chikki sneaks out of the Mehendi function to meet Ankit, but she starts doubting her chat friend’s identity. She wonders if Ankit is behind all this and Akshara helps her find out. |
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Astro turf
ARIES: Now is the time to try your luck in speculative deals. Those employed will be burdened with additional responsibility without incentive. Domestic compulsions will make your life uneasy. TAURUS: Social events will be a positive stimulus for you. At trip out of town is on the cards and will take you away from your lover. Look for the answers to your dilemmas within you. GEMINI: This is a perfect time to start practicing independence and letting go. Planning for investment? Push extra cash into safe scheme. Students: check your account on campus. CANCER: Think twice before you start spending your cash on a whim. You will meet an interesting person today. Teenagers: love stars twinkle. An Aquarian friend is supportive. LEO: You need to honour yourself first and foremost. Your plans for the day can be changed by others. An opportunity to work unsupervised will enhance your performance and lead to promotion. VIRGO: A most tiring day if you have to work. Be willing to change your behaviour. Women: emotionally you will be feeling rather insecure. Romantic luck will boost your spirits. LIBRA: Inspiration is kicking around in your brain today. An issue that is at the back of your mind should be addressed. Love life sparkles. Health is fine. SCORPIO: Friendly vibes and thoughts of romance bode well for singles in the dating game. You will be in a mood to find fault with people who are dear to you; curb this habit. SAGITTARIUS: No matter how much you love your partner, do not compromise things that are important to you. Relationships are based on give and take, so make sure you go both the ways. CAPRICORN: With an unbiased perspective, you can stand to
make quite a decent profit in the longer term. Relatives will be sensitive and difficult to get
along with. AQUARIUS: Gossip at the workplace can cause unexpected problems. If you work in an area where there are language barriers, be extra-careful of misunderstandings. Take what is useful and discard the rest. PISCES: Think wisely before you start spending your extra
cash, as there may be a surprise around the next corner. Politicians draw flak. Do not
avoid responsibility. |
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Sonam Kapoor celebrated her birthday in London on June 9. She stayed away from the action at her home where there were lots of wishes and bouquets from Bollywood. She wanted a special birthday, away from all this. The team of Raanjhanaa wished her too.
Working up a tan
Imtiaz Ali is definitely casting Ranbir Kapoor in his next film. As for the heroine, he is yet to choose between Alia Bhatt and Deepika Padukone. He has to choose between going ahead with the already hit pair of Ranbir and Deepika and giving the audience a fresh pair comprising Ranbir and Alia. Meanwhile, Katrina Kaif is sending Imtiaz feelers but he isn’t falling for it. Clever guy!
Sorry state of mind
Richa Chadda made her debut, in Oye Lucky Lucky Oye, a few years ago and resurfaced to much acclaim and success in the Gangs of Wasseypur series. Her next release is Fukrey, in which she plays a gangster named Bholi Punjaban. She also has a role in Raam Leela. So far, she has already worked with sought after directors. She talks about acting, being single and more.
Yaami Gautam has struck gold by bagging Prabhudeva’s upcoming Hindi film and becoming one of the three heroines opposite Ajay Devgn. Prabhudeva was impressed by her work in the Tamil film Tamilselvanum Thaniyar Anjalum. While the second heroine is Sonakshi Sinha, the third one is still not confirmed.
Niaa in a new show
Nishant Malkani who quit Ram Milaye Jodi on Zee for debut in Bollywood has now signed another film. He has done two other films apparently, which are complete but not released yet. He now has bagged filmmaker Vikram Bhatt's horror film, which also stars Karan
Kundra.
Salman’s Bigg!
More drama