Notes that matter
Nikhil Chinappa believes music should be a journey of discovery and shares how the actor in him is overshadowed by the soulful melody…
Manpriya Singh

Beat it: Nikhil Chinappa His crusade against the commercial genre is to bestow a sense of purpose on music and lend meaning to it, further than just entertainment. A new artiste you'd henceforth listen to, a track that could change your life or at least make your day, an untried genre that connects like no one else…Nikhil Chinappa likes his music beyond the obvious.

"There is a reason why you go to a club. If you had to listen to all the hit songs then they are already there in your I-pod or your car or your playlist. It is at places like these that you get to hear music that you don't normally hear," he shares at the Blue Blazer, Chandigarh, while kicking off his Submerge Dance Project with the property.

He adds, "There is no harm in listening to commercial songs, but just that one should also allow the DJ to take over. I believe that music should be a journey of discovery and a journey of joy." He plans on replicating the experience and taking the city crowds on a similar journey. "I'm going to be playing for two-and-a-half hours," and if the crowds get lucky and the time allows, that could stretch to another hour. It's a matter of connecting with the crowds and the audience. "It's a very give and take relationship…but a good DJ will be able to mould things in a way that please the crowds and still suit your style."

Pure joy

"House," is the genre that he'd put himself into if asked to compartmentalise. "My kind of music is very random, it's very joyful; it's something that encourages you to dance." Making the crowds loose themselves to music is what gives any performer an unparalleled sense of satisfaction. Among the countless popular gigs, the one that's truly stayed with him happened back in Manipal. "I specifically remember playing in a room. There were as many as eight hundred students who had just gotten over with exams a day before. I haven't seen that much of energy and joy. I must have played for five hours at a stretch." He adds, "Having said that, I also enjoy playing for nobody. Just digging your feet in the sand, watching the sun go down and playing for the sun and nobody else; it's like meditation."

Bollywood take

Every four to five months, a script comes his way, claiming to be different but just as clichéd. "I never say no. I like trying different things but I listen to the script and always excuse myself out." At the end of the day, movies like Shaitan and David, remain a stint or at best cameo. "Did you see me in David?" He laughs, "Acting is not something that comes naturally to me. I don't chase fame. The only reason I agreed to do Shaitan was because of Bejoy Nambiar and the fact that he himself said it's a very small role." As long as his passion is taken care of, the experimentation should keep happening. He's rather be behind the console and connect to crowds than be behind the camera and talk to a lens!

DJing…"Any day." Music…"Anytime."

manpriya@tribunemail.com

A young voice
Mona

sing along: Rahul Sharma Music is where Rahul Sharma saw his destiny from the very beginning. This weekend was his first stage show at the Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh!

The young singer has put in blood and sweat to learn his craft. "Right from my childhood, I noticed music and tried to sing," says Rahul. His parents put him under the guidance of Vinod Sood for initial training. At nineteen, he moved to Mumbai to learn under noted playback singer Suresh Wadekar.

"I was one of the lucky five who got to learn from Suresh Ji right in his house," says Rahul, who during the more than three years with him did riyaaz for as long as fourteen hours a day.

"Suresh Ji emphasised on the daily riyaaz; if you want to record in a studio it is a must."

Mumbai is a 'mad-bad' world and getting an entry into the film fraternity is not even easy for its established singers who call the shots there. Stage shows and reality shows are the options for the starters and Rahul has chosen the former. Right now on a break to learn some business tricks form his father, Rahul is itching to be back in Mumbai and live his dream of being a playback singer. "I am ready to face all the challenges and struggle to be the singer I want to be!"

mona@tribunemail.com

Sneak peek
Peek-a-boo dresses are the latest fad with fashionistas. They are bold, revealing and indeed make a strong fashion statement... 
Amarjot Kaur

 agnes monica in a sheer outfit 	REUTERS.. The latest trend that is making waves on the runway is certainly not for the faint-hearted. Peek-a-boo dresses are fast paving their way among the most scintillating and sexy attires. Mind you - do not mistake this trend for an occasional pelvic-line exposure, for these are only some sexy introductions in the form of daring cut-outs, midriff-bearing separates, up-to-there splits and sheer fabrics. No matter how stylish you are, this fad requires more than just 'boldness'; one false move can turn your stylish look into a rather immodest chase towards looking 'sexy'. If you are daring enough, involve a revealing cropped top into your ensemble, but remember to convey elegance while pulling this look off.

Cut it out

"You can incorporate the peek-a-boo style into everyday wear, but the trick is to do it correctly. I think cropped tops with a high waist jeans is a good way to go," says Niksha Lulla, Mumbai-based fashion designer, while adding, "Look for shirts or blouses that employ cut-outs on the side and back because it won't reveal too much. Smaller peek-a-boo areas are preferable if you want your outfit to look classy. 

Even bralets are a good catch. However, stick to one peek-a-boo item of clothing. If your shirt is the trendy part, your bottoms shouldn't have cutouts."

Priyanka Khosla, a city-based designer, says, "Shirts that feature bare shoulders are a good way to ease into this fad. As for dresses, cut-outs on the side and back work well. 

However, you need to have the right body type to carry off keyholes. In my collection, I like keeping the cut-outs subtle and most importantly at the right place, preferably deep cut at the back. A keyhole cut-out is the easiest way to play the peek-a-boo dressing game."

 paz vega in a backless dressLook wise

"Peek-a-boo clothing with sheer or see-through materials may be transparent organza or even crochet fabric. It's important to wear the right undergarments when a top or dress is sheer. Camisoles and slips that match either your skin tone or the overlying garment will create an appropriate look," opines Niksha Lulla, providing a clear-cut dimension to the sheer dresses.

Office time

Considering the boldness involved in pulling off this trend, it makes one wonder if it is advisable to take this trend to the workplace. Now in all modesty, you cannot go overboard to look like someone assaulted your clothes with a pair of scissors, but there are a few cheat-sheet codes, which could pose for a great cover. Svati Shrivastava, a Delhi-based designer, says, "If you just can't resist trying this trend out at work, you can try wearing a shoulder-less blouse under a blazer. Once you are off the clock, feel free to lose the jacket. However, it's generally considered unprofessional to wear revealing clothes to work. This is best reserved for casual and weekend occasions."

 ashley tisdale (R) in a cutout dressHide & seek

It's adventurous. It lets you reveal your flat abs and toned thighs because, thanks to strategically placed windows, it offers suggestive glimpses of skin while still keeping you fully clothed. It's an illusionist approach that's unique and special-very now and very wow!

You actually must possess some daring-you aren't going to dash out to the store or throw one on for work. But to the right event, such as a nightclub or a dressy party, these look-at-me styles make a perfect statement. So pull on coordinating lingerie and play a bit of hide-and-seek.

amarjot@tribunemail.com

A creative journey
Jasmine Singh

 on screen: Arjun Mathur If there is one thing that doesn't come easy to this London born and bred actor Arjun Mathur, it is being politically correct. No mincing words, no saying something that makes for a lasting impression; take it or leave it, here I am! The actor in the recently released movie Ankur Arora Murder Case knows exactly what he is doing in films and he is certainly not here by chance!

"This is what I wanted to do, anything creative is what I yearn for," says Arjun seen in movies Luck By Chance and My Name is Khan earlier. Once it was settled what he wanted to do, Arjun worked towards his direction. There was no Bollywood godfather waiting to take him through the lanes of glamour. "I worked as an assistant in movies Kyun Ho Gaya Na, Mangal Pandey, Rang De Basanti and Bunty Aur Bubbly. That is how I came to know Aamir Khan. It was wonderful to be sharing the same frame with him in a recent advertisement. He is simply amazing. In fact, he signed my recommendation for an acting school that I had to attend abroad."

Arjun pretty much has his feet on the ground and head on his shoulders. For him films are like catharsis and he has a different way of approaching them. "Films are reflective of society, it is a medium to reach out to people though I am not in a hurry. I know I am not doing some great star kind of roles, whatever I am doing gives me satisfaction," shares the actor whose role in his recent release is being appreciated a lot.

TV commercials are something that Arjun has been appreciated for them every time. "I came to Mumbai; I had to survive in here, so I had to earn as well. Commercials give me that survival dough, besides it is fun to work in them." After Ankur Arora Murder Case, Arjun is taking time out to read scripts. Adds Arjun, "I understand my candidness can ruffle feathers, but it is better that way because we have become regressive and comfortable with everything around." Some birds are meant to chase their own sky as Richard Bach said; this one is doing the same! jasmine@tribunemail.com

GYAN ZONE
Time for art

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Each watch has been painstakingly designed, non-commercially produced; each timepiece is a work of art. Humbly priced too so that anyone can buy art and keep it. Price: ~2099

Moon & mood

Super moon is significant to human beings because it focuses attention on the moon, and nature in general. This time super moon will rise in the moon sign of Sagittarius and the sun sign of Cancer. So people belonging to these two signs specially must enjoy and celebrate on seeing it like a Karva Cauth ka chand or Poornima ka chaand on the eve of Sunday.

Astrologically the moon is associated with a person's emotional make-up, unconscious habits, rhythms, memories, moods and their ability to react and adapt to those around them. It is also associated with the maternal instincts or the urge to nurture, the home, the need for security and the past and childhood. On June 23, the moon will be closer to the earth. This super moon will appear about 14 per cent larger and 30 per cent brighter than a typical full moon.

— Madan Gupta Spatu

star track
B-town’s brand new friends!
While most of the girls may not be interested in making friends with their peers, here are some guys who have forged strong friendships

Not without my buddy

Ranbir Kapoor and Imtiaz Ali: Ranbir is friends with almost all his directors. He is friends with right from Imtiaz Ali to Ayan Mukerji to Anurag Basu. He bonded with Imtiaz while they prepared for Rockstar and they both advise each other and are absolutely non-judgmental about each other. They hang out regularly and are even making another film together. They are really close buddies who respect each other.

Personal to professional

Ranbir Kapoor and Anurag Basu: They became close while shooting for Barfi and have even started a production company together with their first film going on the floors later this year. The film is about a detective. They even want to make a biopic on Kishore Kumar.

The gadget guys

Ranveer Singh (L) & Arjun KapoorArjun Kapoor and Ranveer Singh: Anushka Sharma was the bone of contention between them. There was also the professional rivalry as they both are YRF boys. But the shooting of Gunday sorted out a lot of problems between them. They bond over working-out, gadgets and games and love for cinema. Arjun even sorted out a misunderstanding between Anushka and Ranveer.

Mutual admiration club

Deepika Padukone and John Abraham: Deepika bonded with John during Desi Boyz and they both share a similar background as they both started out as models. There is nothing fishy in their friendship, it is purely platonic. Deepika thinks that John is mature, sorted and reliable and John finds her grounded and sensible.

Of fashion and friendship

Sonam Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor Khan: The two vivacious women are not rivals as Kareena is much senior and in a league of her own. She does not feel threatened by Sonam Kapoor who totally adores her. They meet a few times a month and bond over food and fashion.

Deadly duo: Sonam Kapoor (top) & Kareena Kapoor 

Leading an adventurous life

Nargis Fakhri Nargis Fakhri's career is finally on track. She has three films coming up, brands love her and the magazine covers never stop rolling in. She talks about getting older, life in Bollywood and more.

My journey

I am very proud of the fact that I adapt easily. I am a flexible person who loves new challenges. I have immersed myself in Hindi culture learning the language, dance forms, and such. Everyday I learn something new and meet new people and life has been interesting so far. The day it becomes boring, I will find a new adventure.

Travel junkie

I do not get to spend too much time in Mumbai because I am travelling all the time. I am a travel junkie so that is okay. I like Mumbai with its madness, warm people, culture, yummy food and so much more. It is so safe. India is such an alive and unpredictable country and I have been lucky to visit many different cities already. I like calling Mumbai home. Coming back here is a nice feeling.

Coping better

If I read all the gossip printed about me, I would be a very unhappy person. Earlier, I used to take everything seriously but now I have just learnt to ignore it. I know what is going on in my life and so do the people who matter to me. The media is also doing their job as people wanted to read about an actor's personal life. We get the raw deal at the end but I cope better now.

Mum’s the best teacher

Katy Perry Singer Katy Perry admits she has a problem in reading because her parents didn't send her to "great schools". But she credits her mother of being a great teacher. "I have a problem reading. I wasn't going to great schools, because my parents didn't believe in public education," said the 28-year-old.

"They wanted the education to be influenced by their religion, so I was going to these halfway education-slash-Christian schools that were like pop-up shop-style education," she added. However, Perry, who moved back to Santa Barbara in California with her parents at the age of 10, doesn't have any regrets. She credits her mother for bringing her up well.

"She went to a couple of girls' schools in Carmel and then went to Berkeley and studied abroad in Spain. She speaks French, she used to be a painter, but now she is just in the ministry. She used to be a reporter, actually. She wanted to be Barbara Walters," Perry said. — IANS

Director’s take

Vikramaditya Motwane Vikramaditya Motwane is back with Lootera after the critically acclaimed Udaan. He talks about casting stars in the movie, cinematic influences and more.

Casting stars

It is a commercial decision to cast established actors like Ranveer Singh and Sonakshi Sinha because I want my film to reach the bigger audience. The content has to be convincing and exciting for a star to come on board. Sonakshi and Ranveer fit into the characters well.

New identity

I assisted him during Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Devdas, His idea of cinema is grand, unique, majestic and celebratory. It has stayed with me. I do not want to emulate him. I want to carve my own identity and narrative style. Nobody can be a clone of someone else.

All support

Ekta has always been in touch with Phantom Films. One day she called Vikas Bahl and said that she wanted to be part of whatever we were doing. She has been very supportive. I considered her inputs and it has been a collaborative attempt.

Goof ups

I know that the trailer of Udaan was similar to Where The Wild Things Are and that was a goof-up because we were lazy. I take responsibility for that. But there are no similarities between Shikayatein and One Day's song, contrary to stories and rumours. Amit Trivedi is a talented composer and he is not stupid to lift songs. As long as we both know the truth, people can think what they want.

Audience verdict

I am nervous before the release of Lootera and I cannot deny that. I cannot do anything about it. I still have to finish technical bits like sound mixing and all that. We are trying to promote the film as extensively as possible. The rest is up to the audience.

Yoga is the way!

Britney Spears Singer Britney Spears loves indulging in yoga to keep her body and mind healthy. "I love my yoga! I'm doing a lot of yoga right now. It's like my go-to between all anxiety and everything," said Spears.

The 31-year-old was not always fond of yoga. "The first time I did yoga, I didn't like it at all. I think the key is finding a good teacher.

Someone you kind of connect with," she said. "If you do find that person, it doesn't feel like you're bored or impatient because I've been in tons of classes, where I'm so over it and I can't deal and want it to end, but I think if you find the right instructor, it does wonders for your body," she added. — IANS

Akshay Kumar hits a six!

Akshay Kumar Akshay Kumar created mass frenzy at Birmingham last week. The only Bollywood face seen at the historic India-Pakistan match in the UK, Akshay was the cynosure of all eyes when he descended on the stadium, accompanied by a non-industry friend from New York and Tanuj Garg, CEO, Balaji Motion Pictures.

The association of the forthcoming Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai Dobara with the ICC Champion's Trophy, is organised by Balaji.

"Akshay's character (Shoaib) is a cricket fanatic in the film, which explains why the producers decided to send him for this match. Even the opening shot of the film's trailer sees his character attending an India-Pakistan match. The India-Pakistan match was the best platform to garner visibility," says a source close to the film.

On reaching the stadium in the morning, Akshay was ushered straight in to the ICC Hospitality Enclosure from where he saw the match. Those seated in the stadium and the millions watching the match on television were treated to multiple shots of Akshay enjoying the on-field 'war', as the cameras panned on him. On completion of the first forty overs, he was invited on the ground by Sanjay Manjrekar to talk about the keenly awaited sequel, releasing on August 15.

Being a cricket lover in real life as well, Akshay cut his holiday short by flying from New York to London just for the match. A private jet then flew him from London to Birmingham, where the match was held. 

Singer in making

Shruti Haasan Shruti Haasan is an accomplished singer and composer. During shooting for D-Day, she had a casual meeting with Shankar, Ehsaan and Loy and that resulted in a full-fledged recording session for her. She has sung a song in D-Day. She completed the song in just thirty minutes!

Huma loves stunts

Actress Huma Quereshi says she was given a choice between two roles in D-Day - one was an action-oriented part, and the other high on drama. She chose the one involving stunts. The film is directed by Nikhil Advani.

"Nikhil gave me choice and said one is going to be an emotional role and the other one is an action part. I said, of course, I want to do the action part," Huma said. "I am really thankful that he thought I could do it. If you get a choice (of a role), anybody would feel good about it," he added.

Huma said it was fun to be training under Hollywood stunt experts Tom Struthers and John Street. — IANS

chatter box
Vikas kisses Sonakshi 

You read it right! Vikas Sawant, a popular contestant from Mumbai on Star Plus' India's Dancing Superstar, is a lucky man. The talented dancer, who has already won the hearts of judge Riteish Deshmukh, Geeta Kapur and Ashley Lobo, now has Sonakshi Sinha as his fan. Vikas had an impact on Sonakshi when she came for the promotion of her upcoming movie Lootera along with Ranveer.

The actress was so delighted to see him perform that she went on the stage and shook-a-leg with the talented contestant. This is not all. Vikas even got an opportunity to kiss the actress on her cheeks. Sonakshi happily agreed to this request. The actress spoke highly about Vikas's talent and also wished him luck in the competition. Vikas who was on cloud nine said, "It was an award in it self when Sonakshi came on stage to talk about my performance. I am really lucky and blessed that an actress of such a high level has spoken volumes about my talent. I am really grateful to her." Catch Vikas Sawant and Sonakshi Sinha on India's Dancing Superstar this Saturday at 9 pm only on Star Plus!

Sanaya clears the air

Sanaya Irani Sanaya Irani's co-star Farhan Khan made statements that she was rude to him and that was one of the factors due to which he made his untimely exit from the show. We get Sanaya's version of this controversy.

Your ex co-star Farhan Khan has made some statements about your behaviour with him on the sets of Chhanchhan. Have these accusations made you angry?

I am not angry. It really doesn't matter to me. I have heard but not read what he has said. People on the sets have and they told me. I am not interested in any of it. Whatever he's been saying isn't really going to work for him.

Do you feel the pressure of TRP when you are the lead in a show?

I believe Chhanchhan has a lot going for it. And I don't have pressure of TRP and I just need to be happy in the show that I am working in. People will cast me for my acting skills not the TRP of my last show.

Once again your boyfriend Mohit Sehgal didn't get the lead part.

No one called Mohit regarding a replacement. I know he was called initially. But it doesn't matter. What matters is now I have a good co-star in Anuj Sachdev. I am sure Mohit will get something better.

What do you think of Anuj?

I am happy working with him. Farhan wasn't someone I could have a conversation with, so I was professional with him. And even on that level, he wasn't good at what he was doing, so it was becoming hard on everyone. Anuj is experienced and knows what he's doing.

You were approached for Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa but couldn't do it for date issues.

Yes, I was approached but I didn't want to do this year as my show had just started. I didn't want to be working 12 hours a day and then going for rehearsals.

Ankita wants a hike

Ankita Sharma Buzz is that Ankita Sharma aka Nimrit of Life OK's Amrit Manthan is going to quit the show. Apparently she wants a hike in her pay and isn't getting good money. She has spoken to the makers who are pondering over the matter.


exit point: Ankita Sharma

Ghosh’s ghostly experience

Sayantani Ghosh Sayantani Ghosh recently got a fright when she had to shoot in a really old building. Perhaps it was a paranormal experience. While shooting, she felt someone's presence and when she turned around, there was no one. Though she gave the shot but the scary experience remains with her.

paranormal activity: Sayantani Ghosh

A new horizon

After doing the role of Phulwa, child actor Jannat Zubair Rahmani will now be seen in a new role. She will play the young Mehrunissa in a show based on the book The Twentieth Wife on Epic channel. After the village girl Phulwa to the modern girl in Haar Jeet, now it's time for Jannat to play a historical character.

Jannat Zubair Rahmani 

Prachee is back

Prachee Shah Prachee Shah Pandya of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thhi fame will soon be back on TV. She will be seen in Sphere Origin's new show on Star Plus. After a hiatus of two years she will play the role of actress Shrenu Parekh's mother.


Prachee Shah

Astro Turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Nine of Wards brings enjoyment and opportunity. Personal plans are likely to receive a severe setback. The day will be full of glamour and romance. Stay focused. Tarot message: Do not be bullied into accepting situations you dislike. Lucky colour: Royal blue Magic number: 41

TAURUS: You will have no problem getting along with family members. Romance is on the cards. Do not resist changes as it all works out for the best. Concentrate on your health. Tarot message: Do not jeopardize your long-term capital. Lucky colour: Crimson Magic number: 62

GEMINI: Business matters may not turn out to be as sorted as they appear to be. There can be obstacles and sudden demands on your time. Health needs attention. Tarot message: Balance and perspective will lead you out of problematic situations. Lucky colour: Pink Magic number: 57

CANCER: The King of Swords suggests that you need to make a sincere effort on the job because laziness will not be tolerated. Today you meet someone who sets your heart aflutter. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid delays. Lucky colour: Black Magic number: 26

LEO: Check the to-do list thoroughly and clear as many items as possible. Finance needs to be handled with care. Turn your attention to home and family. Tarot message: Learn to live with the outcome of your decision. Lucky colour: Brown Magic number: 63

VIRGO: Love affair will blossom, but do not go on the face value. Success comes only with hard work. Do not take any decision while making major deals. Be cautious while dealing with money. Tarot message: Focus on professional changes. Lucky colour: Ebony Magic number: 27

LIBRA: Health needs attention. Cut down on salt and increase liquid intake. Loved ones will be congenial. Today is a good day to deal in financial matters. 
Focus on family matters. Tarot message: Concentrate on what is truly important. Lucky colour: Sea green Magic number: 28

SCORPIO: Learn to be optimistic. This evening is ideal for serious discussion or a heart-to-heart conversation with your partner because Venus is very powerful today. Today is a good day for romance. Tarot message: Seek advice from different sources. Lucky colour: Metallic grey Magic number: 30

SAGITTARIUS: It is a good day to deal with accounts, so you may start anything important. Housewives should find ways to cut down on unnecessary expenditure. Tarot message: Do not get carried away by your initial success. Lucky colour: Ebony Magic number: 43

CAPRICORN: A hectic evening awaits you. Sign new documents after lunch. Health gives no tension at all. Watch out for potential arguments, especially if you are intoxicated. Tarot message: Be articulate to prevent people from making their own conclusions. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 55

AQUARIUS: After a busy period of seasonal celebration, you will be glad to kick back and take it easy. Frank discussion could clear the air. Go along with the wishes of your spouse. Tarot message: Do not let opposition faze you. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 57

PISCES: The overall situation improves today. You will get job satisfaction from creative work. Superiors will be co-operative and will offer you financial backing. Tarot message: Take one-step at a time and avoid being hurried or over anxious. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 37





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