Return of the romantics
Diljit Dosanjh and Neeru Bajwa are back with Jatt and Juliet 2. This time around, they play cops and hope the magic is replicated…
Manpriya Singh

The only thing they carry forward is the essence of the story, the camaraderie between the characters and the well-acclaimed title. Contrary to the great expectations, the cast of Jatt and Juliet Part 2, brushes aside any hope of a sequel and tags the second attempt as a franchisee, at the same time promising a fresh canvas. "It's a completely different film, the story is different, the setting is different," Diljit Dosanjh gives a heads up, during the promotion of the film at Chandigarh.

What retains nevertheless is the clash between our Punjabi Jatt and the Canadian Juliet. "Given my turbaned appearance, I myself think of what all roles can I play with conviction. The character of a turbaned Punjab Police officer is something I've wanted to play for a while now," he shares, while in an exceptionally interactive mood as he sits over lunch at Buzz and tosses up his platter full of different influences: lots of pasta and little bit of paneer. "Neeru Bajwa represents the Canadian police and in a way, we've spoken of the equality of genders in the movie."

There are as many as four songs in the movie that he's lent his voice to, something that he loves doing. "Music is me. I don't even fear competition because if acting doesn't click, there's always singing to go back to." Other than the roles that justify a turbaned avatar, "There is yet another character 
that I've always wanted to play, which I am going to be playing in my upcoming movie on the Punjab of 1984."

Speaking of the headgear, recently Bollywood has been replete with turbaned makeovers and the roles that demand them. "I don't know whether all these actors justify the turbaned roles or not, but they certainly don't know how to tie a turban well. Wish they call me to do the honours."

There's no objection to even coming up with a production house, "provided we tell him what name to keep."

There are two to three singles lined up in the coming year, he's just finished a world tour and is more than happy to be breathlessly busy. "When I started out in this industry all I asked for was that I may never have to sit idle. Now when things are rolling, I can't complain."

Something substantial

Prince with Vivek Oberoi happened long ago and now Neeru Bajwa refuses "to be just a decorative piece in the B-town or for that matter in any other film." As for the Pinky Moge Wali, "that was a mistake and what was told to me was not what was made." she refuses to mince words and shares how today, the script and the role stand significant; something that happened with Jatt and Juliet Part 2. "The makers had the script in place first and then they came up with the title. So we have substance in the movie."

With the movie, they are not trying to cash in on the title, only for the widest release ever.

"The movie is going to be released in Austria, Germany, Italy, Europe, Middle East countries and in the US." She adds, "My character in the movie is still strong, she's Canadian-born so the slang changes… I play a police officer so I had to do a little homework to fit into the role well."

Coming up is Naughty Jatts and as for the production house, "that's on backseat because I only want to make good films." She adds, "I can't have you guys asking me as to why did I make this?"

manpriya@tribunemail.com 

Tinsel Town Twinkle
Mona

This twenty-five-year-old has played Kabir (Yeh Ishq Haaye) and Hriday (Ghar Aaja Pardesi) but there are many more characters that Aryeman Bhatia intends to bring alive on screen! In Chandigarh, on Friday, this model and actor opened up on life, dreams and much more.

The beginning

I started modelling rather early in Delhi. Being Mr Central India paved the way for print ads and commercials. Encouraged, I headed to Mumbai. Trained under Neeraj Kabi, I worked in reality shows and telly soaps followed.

Real take

While modelling is all about looks, you need to know what you are good at in reality shows. I quite enjoyed bike stunts reality show Yamaha Dreamride for UTV Bindaas. I have learnt from my experience that initially it's challenging, but easy when you start living the character.

Role model

I get inspired by Aamir Khan. He does each film his way, takes his time in turning himself into the character and delivers every time. Ranbir Kapoor is one in my generation I look up to. His first Saawariya flopped but he did see his way up by experimenting with different kind of roles.

Dream girls

Kareena Kapoor and Katrina Kaif are the ultimate glamour girls. How Vidya Balan reached the top is legendary. Hers is another story that motivates countless dreamers who land in Mumbai everyday.

Movie buff

I am a complete movie buff, if not two, a movie a day is a must. I am a compulsive Hollywood movie-watcher. My favourite director out there is one and only Steven Spielberg. I dream of working with him someday.

What next

I am aiming at films, they give one an opportunity not only to prove oneself but also reach out to a wider audience. I am also scouting for Punjabi movies that I am around for two weeks here (my family moved here two years back).

Family man

I am rather a quiet guy but am completely different on sets. When you do where your heart lies, the work becomes fun. I am into philosophical reading and write sometimes. I am grateful for the supportive family, who moved with me to Mumbai to help me during my initial years.

mona@tribunemail.com

Groovy kind of love

Raanjhanaa

Directed by Anand L Rai and written by Himanshu Sharma, Raanjhanaa is a Bollywood romantic film that has been produced by Krishika Lulla. The music of the film has been composed by double Academy Award winner, A R Rahman. The film features Tamil film actor Dhanush and Sonam Kapoor in the lead roles. While Dhanush plays the role of Kundan, who is passionate about his city, Banaras and Sonam Kapoor essays the role of Zoya. The film revolves around the story of a Kundan, who falls hopelessly in love with Zoya, who is child-like and unpredictable. However, Zoya falls in love with Abhay Deol, who essays the role of Akram, a confident university student, socialist and a budding politician.

Refreshing take

I like the storyline of the film, as it is quite a fresh take on the romantic genre. Also, Dhanush and Sonam have acted very well. It is definitely a one-time watch. The music of the film is very good too.

Nitish, student

Story that matters

I think the first half of the film was not as good as the second half, but the storyline is really nice. If you are a romantic at heart, you will surely love it. Abhay Deol looks amazing in the film. The star cast and the music add to the content of the film while making it worth the watch.

Urvashi Sharma, student

Music all the way

As much as I like the film, I think that the music adds to it rather abundantly. Moreover, the tracks are so in sync with the story. I like the idea and the storyline. It's a must watch. Also, Sonam Kapoor has given her best in this film. It willfor a good watch.

Nishant Goel, student

World War Z

Directed by Marc Forster, World War Z is an apocalyptic horror film. The screenplay of the film has been done by Matthew Michael Carnahan and it is based on the 2006 novel of the same name by Max Brooks. The film stars Brad Pitt as Gerry Lane, a retired UN employee who must travel the world to find a way to stop the zombie pandemic that is defeating armies and collapsing governments.

Story wise

The film revolves around the life of Gerry Lane, a United Nations employee, who traverses the world in a race against time to stop the zombie pandemic that is toppling armies and governments, and threatening to destroy humanity itself. The film has been depicted with utter genius, especially when it comes to the effects and action scenes.

Darpan Chadda, student

Action and more

I like the effects and its direction. The way they have shown the planetary chaos is brilliant. However, I did not quiet like the ending.

Svati Bhardwaj, student

--As told to Amarjot Kaur 

Grab a bite

The Subway restaurant chain, the leading global quick service restaurant chain, has launched its new restaurant in Sector 15 Panchkula. The new restaurant launch represents the growing popularity of the brand which had opened its milestone 350th outlet in India recently.

Speaking on the occasion, Chetan Arora, development agent, Subway India said, "Subway has aggressive growth plans for the northern region, in line with the brand's growth ambitions for the country as a whole. The brand is witnessing good traction across the country in view of its unique proposition of being a fresh and healthier alternative to traditional fast food."—TNS

punjabi scope
Students, politics…passion
Jasmine Singh

Here it comes, finally. No punches (we mean the laughter ones), no cracking funny dialogues, exploding left, right and centre and no must-have mush. The Punjabi movie Sikander puts a brake on the ongoing everyone-must-laugh-in-a-Punjabi-film scenario.

Directed by Jatinder Mauhar and produced by Poonam Pawar, the movie offers some food for thought. Starring Kartar Cheema, Gul Panag, Yaad Grewal, Raj Singh Jhinger and Nishwan Bhullar, Sikander is a movie based on student politics and how it affects the students; the state and what it eventually leads to.

Definitely, nothing like what you have been seeing all this while! The screenplay of Sikander is packed together by Jatinder Mauhar and Daljeet Ami who have given a definite shape to the story, avoiding any loose ends. Jatinder, who is known to handle heavy topics, has done a great job with direction. He has made everyone, right from the actors and character artists, act. Sikander is the debut Punjabi movie for Gul Panag, and she definitely means business. She plays a strong-willed character of Beant Kaur, who decides to stand against her own lover and the system. How many women would do that?

This is where a trickle of can-this-happen comes to mind. The other thing that we keep asking ourself is why are there no more girls in the film. After all, girls are so much a part of student politics these days or aren't they?

The movie brings out a fine actor in Kartar Cheema, who plays Sikander in the movie. He slips in the role rather easily. For once, this is an actor (we don't remember the first one honestly) who will make you think whether to like him for his good looks or his intense acting. Kartar scores everywhere! He sure has a lot to look forward to for he can dabble with action and romance, and yes he can make you smile as well!

Another actor who looks like a healthy mix of many Bollywood villains, Yaad Grewal has played the perfect villain. He looks vicious and makes his character sound like it too. Surprisingly, he shows some rare comic timings as well.

Other actors, Raj Singh Jhinger, Jatin Sharma and Victor John are worth appreciating. The boys have played their roles as student leaders or followers to the hilt. In the middle of the politics, you realise you have missed out on one actor, Manav Vij. A fine actor wasted!

Sikander has some real hard dialogues equally distributed between all the characters and some good action thrown in judiciously. The film has well-fitted music. You wouldn't break into dance or balle balle every ten minutes, despite that you would like it especially the number Chandigarh hooter boley and Rabbi Sheirgill's Jugni. If you have seen enough laughter shows and you want to see something different and something substantial, Sikander can be your pick!

Film: Sikander  
Director: Jatinder Mauhar
Cast: Kartar Cheema, Gul Panag, Yaad Grewal, Raj Singh Jhinger, Victor John
Rating: ***

Change of action plan
Suniel Shetty has done it all — action, romance, comedy…the man now wants to settle into more realistic roles…
Jasmine Singh

Kitney action scenes hai…this apparently was the first question that actor Suniel Shetty used to ask before signing any film earlier, but now after a rich repertoire of successful films the questions have changed completely. Now the sole query is — 'is my role performance-oriented'. Suniel talks about the changed orientation!

He is an actor who respects time and the changes that come with time. "Ageing gracefully is the only thing that I know of. I usually do all my stunts myself, but now I think twice before doing deadly stunts. I know my body doesn't react the way it used to. And now I know any injury will take more time to heal than before," shares the actor, who is touring Punjab for his film Enemmy.

He comes back on screen after a long time, almost two-and-a-half years. "I went into a forced sabbatical. You need time to clear the mess, don't you?" Suniel is excited about the movie. It is not only plain action, Enemmy is much more to him. "Audiences will look for performance in the role. It is a great show put together."

Known for some hardcore action movies, Suniel has dabbled with all kinds of genres but he comes home with action. "I have played different kinds of characters and in different genres — with action I have Border, Hera Pheri for comedy and Dhadkan for romance. As an actor now, ask me to run around the trees, I wouldn't do that! I want to do roles that are realistic, at least go down well with my age."

Suniel Shetty is choosy about the roles now. "In Enemmy, I play a man my age with family and issues; something which isn't unbelievable. I look for depth in the roles and this is what I get in this movie."

The actor who has stayed away from controversies is not ready to put things on stake. "There are all kinds of beautiful women around, but I have a choice; whether I am ready to put my family, my work and everything at stake for this. Well, it isn't worth." His fitness routine has remained grilling always. "No bad habits and regular gym," he says.

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Rosy affair!
Model, emcee, dancer, anchor and actress, Rose Sardana has many a talent and she is making the most of them… 
Tanya Malhotra

For some fame is passed on as legacy while for others it's hard-earned. But for all, success comes with persistant hardwork. Rose Sardana likes to call it the work of destiny while she stands her ground as an anchor, emcee, a proficient dancer and a model. The enthusiasm in her voice and the confidence in her tone come from the experience she has gained over the years working towards her goal. And how it all started is nothing out of the ordinary!

While in college as a student, she did part-time events and modelling assignment to earn some pocket money but how it all turned into a profession was fairly fascinating. However, from modelling to event coordination and then anchoring, the journey was rather a tough one. Her hardwork bore fruits when she was recognised by UTV Bindaas to host their show Bindaas Buddies. This exposure further gave wings to her ambition.

"I was fascinated by how effortlessly I was able to connect with the audience and how much I liked it. For the last two years, Rose has been emceeing all across Punjab, Delhi and Rajasthan, working with many prestigious brands. Apart from that, dancing is yet another forte. She is a trained dancer and has performed in many shows, also winning the dance reality show Aaja nach le on MH1.

Memorable moment: I was once hosting the same event all over Punjab. While it started from Ludhiana, by the time it reached Amritsar, the event was so popular that it looked like the entire city was in the mall. People appreciated my work and that was my biggest reward.

My guru: I have always looked up to one guru — god. He has given me the strength to never back out.

One person I will never forget: DJ Bhanu; he went out of the way to help me settle my career.

When not working I like to: Spend time with my family and work out at the gym.

Favourite spot in Chandigarh: Café Coffee Day, Sector 35.

Bollywood hit: Ranbir Kapoor, Deepika Padukone and Katrina Kaif.

Punjabi connect: Over the years, Punjab has evolved, blended and has developed a stylish culture. Artists like Punjabi MC, Bohemia, DJ Sanj, Juggy D and the recent hit Honey Singh have taken it up a notch.

Acting vs anchoring: My first love would always be anchoring/veejaying although I would love to move forward and become an actress in the future. In fact, I am doing a Punjabi Movie called Jee karda soon. Mumbai has always fascinated me and I would love to settle down there.

chatter box
On the trail of a tiger 

Yash Patnaik's heart-warming story about a brother-sister bond titled Veera- Ek Veer Ki Ardaas on Star Plus has been getting appreciation since the time it was launched in October last year. The show currently has an important sequence involving a tiger.

Wild chase: A still from Veera-Ek Veer Ki Ardaas.

On being asked whose idea it was to incorporate the tiger sequence, producer Yash Patnaik says, "After recreating the Rural Olympic extravaganza (in Amritsar) for Veera we wanted another event for Veera post IPL. That's the time our team along with the channel came up with the idea of introducing a tiger as a threat. It was a novel idea and a difficult task to take the entire unit to Thailand to shoot with the big cat. Everyone had the adrenaline rush with the thought of shooting with a tiger."

He adds, "Shooting with a tiger was a challenging task. In India we don't get permission to shoot with a tiger. I personally met half a dozen tiger trainers in Thailand, and over 80 tigers at places like Sriracha Tiger Park, Tiger Temple etc before zeroing on the wild cat Teeyayi for our shoot. We developed a detailed story board for the entire sequence which was shared with the tiger trainer 'Ken' in Thailand. Ken trained the tiger over one week to do the difficult sequences. We flew the entire unit from Mumbai. When we were all set to shoot weather played spoilt sport as it stared raining there. We had to find a large studio where shooting with a tiger was allowed."

"After much deliberation we found Montri Studios in Bangkok which allowed us to shoot with Teeyayi. The entire set was created there and finally we shot over a couple of days. It was a daunting task to shoot with a tiger. The entire unit was on extreme attention as the mood of the tiger could swing either ways when it sees so many unknown people around. We had few machans (higher platforms) in the floor for the crew to operate from as we were shooting with an unleashed tiger. Few cages were mounted for cameramen and Red Epic cameras for operation on the ground level. The trainers and support staff were brilliant. Our cameramen Sanjay Memane, Anil Katke and director Waseem Sabeer did a fabulous job. They were closest to the unleashed tiger. Finally we completed the most challenging shoot of our life," he adds further.

Just hype, no fizz

After the hype over the intimate scene in Star Plus' Saraswatichandra between Gautam Rode and Jennifer Winget, the scene didn't deliver as was expected. And now the buzz is that Jennifer was reluctant to shoot an intimate scene as apparently her husband Karan Singh Grover wasn't too comfortable with her physical contact with Gautam for the serial. The show isn't doing that well and this built-up of romance was supposed to be a high point to lure the viewers.

Nothing intimate: Jennifer Winget

Hiten in Hongkong

Hiten Tejwani has gone to Hongkong with his family and has taken a break from his hectic schedule. This trip has been possible only after Kya Huva went off air and has allowed Hiten a breather from his schedule.

Work comes first

Sara Khan has been working hard despite being unwell. She is busy shooting Life Ok's Junoon though she is suffering from cold and high fever. As there is no bank of episodes, she has to shoot non-stop and hasn't asked for a day off.

Eesha mends her ways

Eesha Kansara aka bhabhi in Meri Bhabhi apparently forgot to shut the taps in her house a couple of times and when she returned her house was flooded with water. Now, she has decided to ensure she checks all taps before leaving. 

All that jazz!

This weekend on Star Plus' India's Dancing Superstar will have multiple surprises. Handsome Ranvir Singh and glamorous Sonakshi Sinha will be seen grooving to a romantic number on the show from their upcoming movie Lootera. The duo that came on the show for the movie promotion had a whale of time with the judges and contestants. 

Shake a leg: Ranveer Singh and Sonakshi Sinha

D-maniax who are popular for their slow motion dance planned a surprise for their favourite actress Sonakshi Sinha. The beautiful actress who was extremely impressed by the sweet gesture and the extreme talent showed by the contestants gave a standing ovation. No matter how much the contestants tried to woo the guests the show belonged to Akshay Pal. 

The talented dancer who hails from Indore gave a breathtaking performance on an instrumental version of popular song, Soniyo that left the judges and the contestants with goose bumps. Ranveer, who loved the performance, went up on the stage and confessed to all that Akshay's performance had made him his fan for life. This is not all. 

This weekend will mark the beginning of the first elimination round on the dance reality show. While all the contestants have pulled up their dancing socks, only the best ones will make it forward in the competition. Who will be that first contestant to leave the IDS set? 

Catch India's Dancing Superstar this weekend at 9 pm on Star Plus.

Did Shraddha say no to Abhishek Bachchan?

According to the latest buzz, Aashiqui 2 star Shraddha Kapoor has turned down a project opposite Abhishek Bachchan. Instead, she signed a film starring newcomer Siddharth Malhotra. However, Shraddha Kapoor denied the buzz and said that she would love to work with Abhishek if she gets an opportunity. "I must clarify that there is no truth in this. I would absolutely love to work with Abhishek Bachchan given the opportunity," she said.

"Where is the question of me deciding to work with my co-stars? It's upon my director to decide the cast," she added.

I must clarify that there is no truth in this. I would absolutely love to work with Abhishek Bachchan given the opportunity

Problems in paradise

It seems that all is not well between Anurag Kashyap and Kalki Koechlin. Kalki is spending most of her time in Bangalore and Anurag is busy with directing Bombay Velvet. They arrive separately at events and rumour has it that they are on the verge of breaking up.

Different paths: Kalki Koechlin and Anurag Kashyap

Sooraj gets support

Many children of Bollywood veterans like Danny Denzongpa's son and Shashi Ranjan's daughter Anushka are siding Aditya Panscholi's son Sooraj. They say they have known him since school days and even met his previous girlfriends and nobody has ever complained about him. We just hope this gets sorted really soon.

Big deal

Vaani Kapoor met Aditya Chopra a year ago and he was impressed with her so he gave her a three-film deal. It was YRF casting officials who spotted her in Delhi first. She is doing Shuddh Desi Romance. Vanni has been asked to keep a low profile till YRF officially launches her to the media.

Launch pad: Vaani Kapoor

All new low

Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Salman Khan's equation has reached a new low. Salman wanted the rights of South film Kanchana but Bhansali acquired it for nearly three crore. Salman wanted the movie for Sohail Khan to remake.