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Nothing theatrical
In Chandigarh, for a summer theatre workshop at Chitkara International School, he shuttles between addressing the media and interacting with children. "It's important to be talking in the language of the child. From the usual school experience, it takes some time to adjust and for the child to start speaking and being listened to. Unlike in school, in theatre everything comes from them — right from the script." He adds, "It's not just a matter of speech exercises, it's important to provide a platform without judgement."
Academic note
It's a journey to encourage students to be young artistes, in their own right. While the news that CBSE is initiating a pilot project in Delhi for high school theatre studies might be exciting, before that happens there's a lot that needs to be achieved. "That means we have to work out the syllabus, textbooks have to be written; it has to be made an examinable subject." What's preventing schools from taking theatre seriously is, "I don't know. Schools don't like it because it makes too much noise and the children enjoy themselves." Till the time, a whole new generation of theatre students and enthusiasts crops up and gives a new lift to the medium, there's a lot that needs to be put in place. "When people go to see a movie, they obviously buy tickets but when they want to come and watch a play, they expect to be given a pass." He adds, "Space is also one of the constraints that's preventing mass spread of theatre."
The man
Apart from shuttling between the two centres of Barry John Acting Studio, it's taking workshops and travelling. "It's not my first visit to Chandigarh. I've lost count as to how many times I've been here, sometimes en route Shimla for plays uphills," of which he has "fond memories." He adds, "Last time when I came here, I was in the Government College for Girls for a workshop about teaching drama and its importance." There is a lot else that he's lost count of; the number of his students that struck gold at the silver screen. Starting from Shah Rukh Khan, Mira Nair, Manoj Bajpai, Lillete Dubey, Kunal Kapoor to the recent Varun Dhawan and Sushant Singh Rajput. There are neither any tell-tale signs nor any words of warnings. "You just don't know who's going to make it big. You can't tell at all. A lot of people ask me if I knew that Shah Rukh Khan was going to make it big and I always say you never know." No matter how much we nudge, there's no giving in the names. "Whenever anybody asks me the question as to who is my favourite student, I always say that I don't know." Credit things to the commitment for the medium or four decades of experience in the industry, which he brushes aside as, "I'm fairly ancient." Yes, he's too much of a nautankiwala and aren't we happy about it?
manpriya@tribunemail.com
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The real touch
Disillusionment… at some stage in life, the word slips to the centrestage. While some dabble with it, some plunge into philosophical notes; a self-willed actor like Shilpa Shukla moves on when she finds it is like a pit-stop where she was able to find her strength. The Bindya Naayak of Chak De India is not bogged down by the requisites of stardom. All set for her release BA Pass, Shilpa talks about her characters in various films, which reflect her inner journey.
"People ask me where I was after Chak De. I did roles; what I realised is if I don't have my heart into them, it eventually shows," says Shilpa, who started her acting career with eminent theatre personality MK Raina. Shilpa makes a difference to each of her roles, she provides a depth to her character, which we could see, comes from her stint in theatre. She is not mincing words, "Theatre kills your ego, from painting posters to serving chai; after doing it all, it has made me receptive. I am like an empty container, ready to receive things; I am receptive to emotions, which have moulded my international journey," she quips. After the commercial hit of Chak De, Shilpa was expected to be everywhere. The fine actress has no qualms in sharing that it took her four years to sift the chaff out of the grain. "Here in Mumbai you know theatre merges with theatre. The biggest pressure is to either take a chance or go for money. Most of the times, directors don't know whether a particular actor would sell. I thought I would be more creatively exposed, which wasn't the case. Nevertheless, I feel I am doing fine with the things I do." Shilpa Shukla's upcoming film BA Pass directed by debutant director Ajay Bahl , won the best film Audience Choice Award at the South Asian Alternative Film Festival (SAAFF) in Paris, France. In 2012, the film was named the Best Film in Indian Competition at the 12th Osian's Cinefan Film Festival. "I have high hopes from the film. I was trying to draw inspiration realistically; though the character is imaginary," adds the actor who will also be seen in The Coffin Maker. There are no frills with Shilpa, she peels off every layer carefully. Even when Shilpa is selective about her roles, she will not rule out commercial success from her career-sheet. "There is no denying the fact that I need it, but I am in no race." Yet Shilpa is sure to hit the right place! jasmine@tribunemail.com
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Clubbing the best
Spare the peculiarity of expression with which we epitomise the eternal fashion appeal of the 'little black dress'-a perfect outfit for the evening. It's a classic and we can swear by its evergreen appeal, which will never let it fade out of fashion. The latest fashion trends allow much scope for experimentation though. The timeless tip is-don't overdo it! Dress circle
When it comes to clubbing, one needs to watch the kind of dresses one chooses. "While clubbing you cannot possibly choose something subtle, which you wear during the day. Night time calls for a little more glamour and shimmer so make sure that you wear glitter dresses at the club," says Priyanka Khosla, a city-based designer. Faux pas: "You can go terribly wrong with a dress if it is not fitted, but worse than that is when you show too much of skin. And there is only a fine line of difference between looking sexy and looking vulgar," says Priyanka Khosla. Flirty skirts
High-waist dresses are an instant hit this summer and if you pair this fitted skirt with a loose frilly top, you are certain to make a few men skip a heartbeat. Wondering how to go about carrying a skirt, let Mini Sondhi, a city-based designer, show you the way, "Embroidered short skirts look really well but these days long printed and plain skirts are a huge hit. Also, the frilly layered skirts have been around for quite some time and they do not look that bad either. If you want a casual look, team up the pleated long shirts with a nice sequined ganji and a thin belt. If you want a formal look, wear a broad belt." Faux pas: "I think one should avoid wearing skirts that are too short and if you are on the heavier side, especially bottom-heavy, go for asymmetrical dresses as they would take away unnecessary attention from your hips," opines Mini. Leg wise
If you have the perfect hour-glass figure and long legs, the best way to go flaunt it all is to wear a fitted top or a net lace shirt with a pair of skin-fit trousers. "Fitted trousers and high-waist jeggings are a good way to go if you have long legs and you are not in the mood to wear shorts. However, if you do like wearing shorts, wear low-waist denim shorts," says Swati Shrivastava. Faux pas: "The lounge shorts are a complete no. They are way too casual for clubs and if you are bottom-heavy, wear a pair of trousers that are not narrow on the end. Make sure that they are not low-waist and they start from the navel," shares Swati. Accessorise right
Keep accessories to the minimum. Button or hoop earrings are acceptable for the daytime look. For an evening, make one-piece - chandelier earrings or embellished purse - a key element to keep the rest of the accessories neutral. Hang on to you watch, you'll need it when it gets too late (we don't have clocks in the club); cartoon characters or day glow details are rather playful. Oh! It's a Swatch, even better! So, doll up and happy clubbing! amarjot@tribunemail.com
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Sporting an attitude
First thing you need to know about Jatesh Bassi is that he is a huge cricket fan. When he is not playing it, he loves watching it. Other that that, he loves travelling, exploring new places and cultures. He likes to style up with a dash of attitude. He loves to live every second of his life.
Your sense of style? Dress according to the occasion and be comfortable in whatever you're wearing. Latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories? I picked up a Salvatore Ferragamo belt some time ago. Brand crazy or street pick-up? Wouldn't call myself 'brand crazy'. I'd like to put it in a more subtle way, I appreciate brands. Who would be your style icon? Salman Khan, because his attitude is such that he can carry off anything and everything effortlessly. Who do you think is the worst-dressed celebrity? Vidya Balan. Which look would your prefer - sporty, chic or glamorous? Sporty. It's comfy yet cool. One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension… Deep v-necks for men. If you've got a humongous chest, I'm sure everyone will notice it anyway! Your take on accessories? To each his own. Wear it if you like it. Given a choice, which designer would you like to be dressed by? Manish Malhotra. What gives you a high on the confidence level? Success! It feels good when hard work in any sphere of life pays off. — As told to Tanya Malhotra
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Sweet & sour
Sugar, spice and everything nice make for a perfect platter! And when in the most authentic form, the food becomes all the more irresistible. The famous multi-cuisine food chain 'Sugar n Spice' from Gujarat made its first foray into North India while opening its 12th franchise restaurant at Hotel City Heart Residency, Sector 22, Chandigarh.
"I read it in a magazine, the very first food magazine that I purchased around twenty years ago, that sugar and spice add taste to your life. It stuck in my mind for good and that's when I came up with this name. I still have that magazine with me. Our funda is to serve good food to the customers while providing value for money," says Sandeep Dawar, managing director, 'Sugar n Spice' On the menu are kebabs, curries, biryanis and junk food along with the specialties like grilled fish, Amritsari fish fry, Peri Peri chicken et al. Then there are thalis that offer multiple flavours of a single cuisine to customers, for example in one Chinese platter there are noodles, Manchurian and spring rolls or in the Kebab platter there are five varieties of kebabs at an average price of Rs 160. Photographs of your favourite food items hang at every nook and corner, which add to the overall ambience. "We have different chefs for different cuisine to make sure we can serve authentic food," says Subhash Narang, managing director of Hotel City Heart. He adds, "We have a seating arrangement for fifty people at a time and if you're just shopping around and would like to stop for some scrumptious street food, the restaurant offers golgappe, chat papri, dahi bhalla, gujiya, aloo tikki and pav bhaji." For the next month, Sugar n Spice will be offering 50 per cent off on kebabs, curries, Chinese and fast food, and soon start with the home delivery service. So far, so good!
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All stuffed up!
Manju Dewan Tacos have been a perennial favourite for their crisp taste and when they are combined with veggies they become wholesome and yummy. The beauty lies in the fact that the variety of vegetables that can be stuffed is large and we can experiment depending on what is available. Try this at home and enjoy the delight. Method:
Ingredients:
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Pulpy delight
After successful completion of many events like Googly, Rampuri, Oktoberfest, Kashmiri, Sizzler food festival and Kebab & Biryani Food Festival, Hometel is now organising Mango Bahar Food Festival. The promotion is being organised at All Day Dining
"Flavours" restaurant for both lunch and dinner. The beautiful ambience of the Flavours restaurant lends a perfect match to the multi-cuisine food offerings to its guest.
Come and savour the sweet, pulpy and fresh mangoes of the season the way you like it. —
TNS
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DP denies dating
Ranveer Singh From Om Shanti Om to Chennai Express, actress Deepika Padukone has come a long way. Deepika, who is currently shooting for Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Ram Leela, will be next in Chennai Express, opposite Shah Rukh Khan. She opens about her relationship with co-stars Shah Rukh Khan and Ranveer Singh. Read on. Sporty SRK
When we did Om Shanti Om, I was a newcomer, nervous and awkward. Today, I can speak to him much more freely. We share a friendly equation now. Shah Rukh is a sport. Unfortunately a lot of people don't get his sense of humour. Shooting with him is a breeze. He lightens the atmosphere and makes everything so easy. Added pressure
You know, unlike our other film together where there was a large cast, in Chennai Express there is an added pressure because it's a romantic comedy where the focus throughout is on Shah Rukh and me. For two actors to carry off a comedy on their shoulders is not easy. I am glad I've Shah Rukh in Chennai Express to make sure I don't flounder. Unnecessary hype
He is an amazing actor, he is very talented. It was a great experience working with him. He is a great co-star, a great person and nothing else. People create hype when the film is about to release. People should understand it is all about on-screen chemistry. I don't feel the need to go and clarify things to people.
Step up
New endeavour
More than friends…
It seems actress Amrita Puri, better known for her roles in Aisha and Kai Po Che, has been secretly dating Santino Morea who happens to be actor Dino Morea's brother. On many occasions and at many places the couple has been seen together. According to sources both Amrita and Santino were very good friends and love happened later. A source says, "Amrita is very guarded about her personal life." Just a few days ago, they were spotted at a Bandra coffee shop. An onlooker informs, "The two were behaving like a couple in love." However, when they were asked about their relationship status, they said they were just good friends." Santino Morea partners a restaurant business with his brother Dino Morea. He also owns a sub urban night club with actor Chunkey Pandey. He also tried his luck in movie direction. He assisted Karan Johar in his movie My Name Is Khan. As a teenager Santino got few modeling contracts. But his heart was in directing movies and that too in Hollywood.
Let them fly!
You'll soon see her magic again on the silver screen, but you've never seen her like this before: dressed in white attire to resemble a bird. Bollywood's sizzling hottie Adah Sharma peered through bars while locked up in a cage and holding a sign that reads, "Let Birds Fly Free. Don't Cage Them". Her point… birds were born to be free and that locking them in cages and denying them the opportunity to fly is cruel. "How would you feel if for no reason you were kidnapped from your home, stuffed into a box, transported far away only to live the rest of your days in a crammed up jail? Not being able to choose what you eat and who your partner is", says Adah. "Birds enjoy their freedom just as we do. If you really love birds don't cage them, buy a pair of binoculars and watch them spread their wings and reach for the sky." Sharma's performances in the Bollywood films 1920 and Phhir were acclaimed. Soon, she will be seen in Hum Hain Raahi Car Ke with Sanjay Dutt and Juhi
Chawla.
A different game altogether
After cricketer Ajay Jadeja and Leander Paes, boxer Vijender Singh is the next sport person to try his luck in Bollywood. The Olympic bronze medalist boxer is all set to make his Bollywood debut with the upcoming movie Fugli. The 27-year-old sport person was on a hunt for a good script for some time and then he met Akshay Kumar. They bonded over their passion for fitness and sports. The movie is backed by Akshay Kumar's production company Grazing Goat Pictures. Ashwini Yardi is the co-producer for this movie as he is the co-owner of Grazing Goat. The movie will be directed by Kabir Sadanand. Sadanand confirmed the news of Vijender being in the movie and said, "We have Vijender in our film. He was perfect for the role. He will go through acting workshops." The film is said to be a social thriller. "It is a social-thriller film with a strong message," Sadanand said. The shooting for the movie Fugli will begin in August this year. Kabir Sadanand, who has made films like Popcorn Khao Mast Ho Jao and Tum Milo Toh Sahi, is currently looking forward to his upcoming movie Golu Aur Pappua. Apart from his boxing game, Vijender Singh has also been known in the sports world for his good looks and his fitness. After he won the Olympic medal, he was signed for a number of endorsements.
Dream fulfilment
It's nice to see actor Randeep Hooda finally getting his due in commercial as well as critically acclaimed cinema. He has bought a high-end car as a gift for his dad. His father, Ranbeer Hooda is a simple man who has never aspired for any expensive gifts. But he had only one dream — to own a black luxury car with beige interiors. Now, Randeep has fulfilled his dream. And to make it more special, the gift will reach on his parents' wedding anniversary on June 17.
Desi star
Visitor on the sets
Actress Huma Qureshi found a hatke friend while she was shooting for her upcoming film in Rann of Kutch in Gujarat. The location was close to the area frequented by animals so they often had visitors on the set. Among them was an emu, whom the actress would often feed. Strangely, she became friends with the big bird. And whenever they dropped in, the unit members would tease Huma saying, "Your friend has come, Huma."
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Stephen King’s sci-fi drama
A 13-episode sci-fi drama from Steven Spielberg's Amblin Television based on Stephen King's best-selling novel of the same name, Under The Dome is all set to premiere exclusively in India on BIG CBS Love concurrent to the show's telecast in the US. What's more, the show's Indian premiere is a part of a global phenomenon as multiple countries are also ready to air show in the same week making it a true worldwide television event. Under The Dome is a 13-episode drama series which tells the story of residents in a small town which suddenly finds itself cut off from the world by a huge dome. The show will feature some well-known faces like Mike Vogel.
Are you ready for Jodha Akbar?
India's leading Hindi GEC, Zee TV, has joined hands with Ekta Kapoor of Balaji Telefilms to bring alive the epic romance of Jodha Akbar. The magnum opus historical will capture the royal couple's journey of love that, in fact, began with intense hatred. What started as a marriage based on political power-play evolved into something more meaningful as they went along. How Jodha's love softened the hard edges of his fierce personality and made him a kinder, more compassionate soul forms the crux of Zee TV's Jodha Akbar. To ensure authenticity in the presentation of India's history, Balaji Telefilms has conducted an in-depth research to verify all facts and figures, the chronology of events and the depiction of all its characters. Minute attention to detail on aspects such as the set, costumes, jewellery, dialects and diction, traditions and rituals has resulted in an extremely authentic re-creation of the royal lifestyles of Mughals & the Rajputs. About her latest show on the channel, Ekta says, "The story of Jodha and Akbar is an intriguing chapter from India's history. It speaks of love in the time of hate. It is relevant and relatable to present times as well. In India, historical shows are more incident-based. But we are looking at the human stories, characterizations that focus on inter-personal relationships how they think and communicate!" Stay tuned to the show on Zee TV every Monday to Friday at 8 pm.
I spy
Discovery Kids is all set to blow your mind off with the action packed episodes of a new show The Amazing Spiez. The show is about, Lee, Marc, Megan and Tony. Thought, they seem like any other ordinary teenagers attending Southdale Junior High School, the truth is that they are leading secret lives, crime-fighting as secret agents of WOOHP! And their parents don't know about it. Recruited by Jerry Lewis, founder and chief of the organisation, they team up to take on evil around the world. The spies detect clues, outsmart villains and protect the world with intelligence, creativity and teamwork. The Amazing Spiez aims to broaden the spectrum of learning for kids. The show will air every day at 1 pm from June 15.
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Astro turf
ARIES: Shopkeepers will find the day quite hectic. Actors are feeling very positive and optimistic. Housewives: a day to improve your home appearance. TAURUS: Do not worry; discuss your plans with loved ones. In the evening children will be a source of happiness. If you are applying for a loan, get your application in now. GEMINI: A property deal gets concluded. Domestic issues come up for urgent consideration. Have no worries; your work is well under control. Make an effort to understand and accept your relationships. CANCER: It is a good day to try your luck in speculative deals. Those employed will be burdened with additional responsibility without incentive. Prioritise your plans and obligations. LEO: Pay heed to wise counsel. Do not intervene in the dispute of others. Housewives: stick to routine activities.
Those looking for a job will receive a suitable offer. VIRGO: Your card "The Chariot" brings a busy day ahead. Please keep a balance between work and rest. Students: do not become reckless. You should be careful about your health. LIBRA: Indecision can be crippling at the moment. Set aside time to get in touch with your thoughts and feelings, even if it is just for half-an-hour. It will allow you to understand your inner motives. SCORPIO: Today most of your time and attention should be centered on your personal life. Arguments with your spouse can become serious. Influential people will not be helpful. SAGITTARIUS: A real estate deal should be left alone for the time being. A cheerful morning for sportsmen. You will find
new opportunities opening up for you. CAPRICORN: Your personal plans will meet with some stiff opposition. You reputation can be on the line. Act impartially and avoid the pitfalls of guilt. AQUARIUS: Money-wise the day is slow. Friends may lose your confidence. Let your energy be turned towards artistic work. Your beloved will be in a
lively mood. PISCES: Go all out to improve your position at work. Students: new love relations can be formed on the campus. If you are relaxing at home, visit a local market and enjoy the sights and sounds. |
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Fukrey
Producer: Farhan Akhtar, Ritesh Sidhwani Director: Mrighdeep Singh Lamba Fukrey has already created a curiosity among the viewers due to its different title. Starring Pulkit Samrat, Manjot Singh, Ali Fazal, Richa Chadha, Visakha Singh and Priya Anand, Fukrey has been written and directed by Mrighdeep Singh Lamba, who had earlier directed Teen Thay Bhai. The film has been directed by Mrighdeep. Fukrey
has been produced by Farhan Aktgar, Ritesh Sidhwani's Excel Entertainment. This
banner had earlier made Dil Chahta Hai and Rock On !!. A coming of age comedy,
the film is centered around college life. Ram Sampath, the music director of
Khakhee, Delly Belly and Talaash, has given music with a Punjabi touch. There is
also a traditional Punjabi folk song Amarsariya… sung by Sona Mohapatra. Man Of Steel
Producer: Charles Roven, Christopher Nolan, Emma Thomas, Deborah Snyder Superman
returns with this action movie Man Of Steel. The film stars Henry Cavil,
Amy Adams, Laurence Fishburne, Diane Lane, Kevin Costner Michael Shannan,
Antje Traue. In this movie, Superman protects the Earth from evil
forces. He fights two surviving Kryptonians! Watch out for Henry Cavill
in Man Of Steel as superman!
Ankur Arora Murder Case
Producer: Vikram Bhatt Director: Suhail Tatari Vikram Bhatt's Ankur Arora Murder Case talks about deaths that occur on the surgical table due to medical negligence. The film is being touted as a perfect medical thriller. It stars Arjun Mathur and Visakha Singh in the lead roles. The cast also includes Kay Kay Menon, Tisca Chopra, Ashish Jain and Paoli Dam. The film has been shot in several film studios in Mumbai and some hospitals. It is based on a real-life incident. —
Dharam Pal
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Drama somehow finds its way into Barry John's school of thought, just as it has into his life; everything he does and who he is. "I'm too much of a nautankiwala," one of the reasons he's never considered films. "I've never enjoyed it. Just never felt comfortable with the medium." No wonder films never happened and theatre never suffered.
Yami Gautam seems to have struck gold after being signed opposite Ajay Devgn in his next film as she hasn't done a full-fledged masala film till now. But how did she bag the role? It's learnt that Prabhu was mighty impressed with the actress after he noticed her in the rushes of the Tamil film Tamilselvanum Thaniyar
Anjalum.
Despite coming from a musical family, actor Neil Nitin Mukesh chose acting. However, he's a good singer and has been playing the piano since his childhood. Neil, who is acting in Binoy Gandhi's upcoming film Paaidaar, has also composed five songs for the film. The film is still in its pre-production stage but Neil has already composed the tunes for the tracks and has even impressed the director with his skills.
Can you guess what Salman Khan's early morning breakfast is? Well, it's baasi rotis. The actor loves to savour rotis made the previous day along with chai. It's the first thing that he insists on having in the morning is chapatis and tea, even before he begins his morning ablutions.
