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An eventful journey
This man loves conceptualising fashion events… and each show of his has a fresh appeal. Probably this is what has kept him in business for 35 long years. Deepika Padukone, Anushka Sharma, John Abraham - name any star and Prasad sure has played his part in making them what they are today!
When Prasad Bidapa comes calling to Chandigarh on Friday evening, famous names are dropped in the conversation and certain amount of pride…and, why not...after all this choreographer, entrepreneur, image consultant, photographer, stylist is called India's fashion guru. "After finishing graphic design from the NID, Ahmedabad I started with advertising. In fact, the term event management got coined after I and others like me started this profession in the 70s," Prasad opens up the conversation. Times have certainly changed today and so has Prasad's stature. From requesting the beautiful girls and their fathers to make them part of a fashion show to getting aspiring models in thousands from different corners of the country, Prasad promises to change everything about you, "I can make you slim, clear your skin, make your hair gorgeous and groom, all I can't do is change your body type." Known to be the man, who has an eye for the next supermodel, he does admit that he too sometimes gets surprised. "All of us who knew Deepika Padukone from her starting days are surprised at the strides she has made. Anushka Sharma on the contrary had this 'shaan' of a superstar even at 13 when she joined me," reveals Prasad. Just like the Japanese who call their artistes 'national treasure', Prasad calls his girls 'treasure'. "Make Carole Gracias open the show and every model picks up the grace," says the man who takes pride in fact that India is the only country that has super models in their late 30s and even 40s, like Noyonika Chatterjee, Jesse Randhawa! Bollywood is sexist, he claims, "While actors can play the lead even up till their 60s, Preity, Bipasha, Aishwarya are all gone." he says. And, what about exploitation in the glamour world? "You get exploited anywhere if you are foolish," he answers straight, adding, "You only opt for reputed colleges and for modelling how can you trust anyone who promises you to make a model." He also holds grudge against Madhur Bhandarkar for portraying the fashion industry in a bad light, "I told Madhur that you have put all the news over the last 20 years in one film and this is not true representation of the fashion world." What it takes to be a model, we ask. "See height is essential for the runaway, beauty can be acquired. When Bipasha came from Kolkata she was quite an ordinary looking girl, a little raw and look how she has transformed." But the short people need not get disheartened. For TV has place for all sizes and shapes. "In fact, they like shorter actors for they fit in the frame easily." Prasad is proud that today India dictates the global fashion scene rather than following one. If the YSL show was totally India- inspired, so was last Chanel collection with maang tikkas in place. Zara introduced bright colours in their collection when they entered Indian market and now their colours are doing so well all over the globe. Women in Sweden are dressed in rani pink. We have truly arrived," he
exclaims! mona@tribunemail.com
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Beauty & the crowd
It was a classic case of more hype than could be handled. Eager beavers, curious cats, peeping toms…the crowds gather by the minute and everybody joins in to catch some of the star dust. An interaction with Dia Mirza at Elante Mall appears anything but feasible, courtesy the people shoving from left, right and centre and every possible direction. A photograph, an autograph, a glimpse…anything would do. A quote would've done for us! Alas, the introductory notes and pleasantries are lost in the din of the noise, the accompanying ruckus and the resultant chaos.
Post the musical chairs between the inside and the outside and an attempt to sift out the irrelevant, there's an interaction. It's always a challenge to see her, guess both onscreen and off screen. "I am busy with multiple things. I'm running a film company, which I set up with the intention of making good cinema and not cast myself in. For the past one-and-a-half years, we've been working on some great scripts and have already started pre-production," she shares while cordoned off at a corner of the Body Shop store, a place she had come to inaugurate. She adds, "We start with one of the movies as soon as October and they all deal with different subjects. Every story is character driven and has a unique human interest value." New age cinema, "is not where she'd like to put her films under and restrict them." Other than the place that we are running out of, there's also the time. "I am not well, I have a bad stomach," she's all politeness but slightly perturbed, while still trying to sort out the confusion that generally crowds bring along. "Are you done? I can repeat but I can't speak loudly…One at a time." Someone quips about the 100 crore club. "It's the audience and the media that makes these clubs." There is a lot else she's forthcoming about, like the current crop of actresses. "I really admire Vidya Balan and among the next generation of upcoming stars, I'd peg a tie between Deepika Padukone and Sonakshi Sinha." It's a second visit to Chandigarh with promises of many more in the future. "I am anyway getting married to a Punjabi in the future, so can't avoid this region." As for Punjabi offers, "I haven't got any so far and I am open to them." Apart from the films, she's always had a strong connect with the causes and especially the environment. "We really need to improve our sense of sanitation. Why can't we sensitize people towards cleanliness…Along with awareness we also need strategic goals. If we don't wake up to nature, it will sooner rather than later destroy us." Even 12 years after she won the coveted Miss Asia Pacific, at least this beauty queen, continues to actually practice the speeches she once preached. manpriya@tribunemail.com
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John Lennon’s first car, home goes on sale
The first car and house bought by Beatles legend John Lennon are up for sale for a combined price of 14 million pounds. The blue Ferrari 330GT has not been driven in a long time, while, the Tudor mansion in Weybridge, Surrey, was home to Lennon and his first wife Cynthia between 1964 and 1968.
Less than a year after buying his house, Lennon passed his driving test and didn't have to go any further than his front door to pick his first car. Lennon strolled round the assortment of deluxe Aston Martins, Maseratis and Jaguars, before forking out 6,500 pounds for the Ferrari. — PTI
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Sunsational feeling
Restless… this is the word that comes nearest to describing Shailendra Singh, joint managing director, Percept Lt and the inceptor of Suburn Music Festival. It is with this restlessness that he starts his day at 5 in the morning, it is with this same streak he goes to break new grounds each time he takes up something new.
Now, with this 'attribute' he takes the most sought- after music festival a step further. In Chandigarh to announce the upcoming events regarding the Sunburn festival, Shailendra defines his profession in one single line, "To make people happy, this is what I do." He has already made Sunburn, a festival that was started to give people a complete musical experience, into a world famous property. He takes it further to something that has not been seen before. As he says, "Now is the time to take the festival to the fans, which is why we will be doing the 30 cities tour with Sunburn Reload. It is a tour that will feature an exhilarating mix of some of the best Indian and international talents with over 50 gigs planned across these 30 cities," adds the man who cannot let a moment go by without infusing life into it. Now, if you have been a fan of the Sunburn, but couldn't get a chance to hit the arenas, Sunburn Reload, which starts in Chandigarh at Blue Blazer, will do it for you. "We will be going to cities like Vadodara, Nagpur, Jaipur, Lucknow, Bhopal, Shillong, Ahmedabad, Pune, Indore, Chennai, Kolkata with the Reload. This for those who have the inclination and money to spend on a music festival but no time," adds Shailendra who has always taken into account that this festival is for the music fans. "Festival like this gives a chance to people to embrace different music, a chance to enjoy nature and unite different souls across the country. He wants to create a magic about things, his focus is always on creation and relationship of things, which is why you wouldn't find him sitting ideal for a nano second. "Most of my writing happens while I am traveling, there is so much time to do things and I want to make the most before I die," he quips. And guess what are the two things that he relies on-- gut feelings and a scientific approach. "This is how Sunburn started," he laughs. "Electronic dance music (EDM) was an unexplored genre and I picked it up. People have loved it thoroughly." This doesn't end here, his company Percept Pictures along with Viacom 18 and Phantom Films is making a movie Sunburn the Movie. "I see it being released towards November this year." No vices with Shailendra, it is glass of wine or champagne and a whole lot of ideas that keeps him charged up in life. A magical life and a musical journey is what the man has created for all those who sway at the Sunburn festivals. "The big thing for Chandigarh is that we will be organising one-day Sunburn festival along with Blue Blazer on October 20, keep your date empty," he laughs.
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Sound of nature
Culture, when eloquently expressed, defines the character of a region and its people and when exchanged, it breaks the barriers of physical boundaries and propels an emotional undercurrent that capacitates both intellect and aesthetics. Though the Wednesday evening did not quite offer any refuge from either heat or humidity, it extended a delightful melange of art and culture, which blended rather seamlessly to celebrate the Canada Day and to bid farewell to the Consul General of Canada, Scot Slessor. While the event featured a special performance by Arctic throat singers from Canada, Kathy Kettler and Kendra Tagoona, it was attended by some of the most influential elites of the city, including Bikram Singh Majithia, NRI affairs minister, Punjab, who was the chief guest for the occasion. As the evening progressed, both Kathy and Kendra lit the stage with their talent. "Throat singing is the art of imitating different sounds in the environment," explained the artistes, who are given to preserving and sharing Inuit culture of Canada. As their performance began with 'humba' and proceeded to the sound of wind, seagulls, mosquitoes and a mix of five sounds of the river, which they called, 'sound of the river', it progressed to the ajaja song that was followed by some Inuit games. "We belong to the aboriginal art groups and the main purpose of these groups is to preserve their culture and tradition. While Kendra belongs to the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK), I belong to the Assembly of First Nations (AFN)," said Kathy, who learnt the art of throat singing from her sister 15 years ago and later taught it to Kendra. Kendra, who knows various dance forms, confessed that she was rather hesitant to learn throat singing at first. "Throat singing is not all about singing from the throat, there are a lot of breathing techniques involved too. Though we sing on one note, we mix many sounds alternatively. This kind of art requires a lot of synchronisation, uniformity, and practice, for which there is one leader and a follower in the group," shared Kendra, who also plays a drumming instrument, katajjaq. The Christian priests banned Iniut throat singing over 100 years ago, but it is experiencing a recent revival, especially among the younger generations. In India for the first time, both Kathy and Kendra are relishing the food and culture, "I love the food here, especially masala dosa, chikan tikka and poha," said Kathy, who was later interrupted by Kendra, who added, "I like the culture of India, especially the diverse religions and ideologies. Moreover, India has a lot of history and that is the most interesting part about it," she signed off. In the comfort zone
"Culturally, both India and Canada are in a very comfortable zone and in order to galvanise the cultural exchange, there needs to be a lot of involvement from the people. There is a lot to learn and that Canada lacks skilled labour, we lack technology and global progress, I believe, thrives on exchange, one just needs to trigger it off and then it is automatically followed by a chain reaction," said Bikram Singh Majithia, NRI affairs minister.
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The gadget girl
Instagram: I love taking pictures so I use Instagram a lot. A picture conveys much more than words. I love communicating through pictures and being in pictures. Twitter: I travel a lot due to my hectic schedule so I cannot read papers all the time or watch the news. Twitter helps me stay updated with what's happening around the world. I get to express my views too. It is fun. Eatminder: This is a very cool and useful application for people like me who have acidity. It reminds you to eat every two hours, no matter what you are doing. You feed in the time you ate your first meal and it will do the rest. Scrabble: I have to travel for a couple of hours in between shoots and during promotions so scrabble keeps my mind active and alert. I stay busy too and time flies. Kindle: It is not an application as such but it is so useful. My Kindle and iPad help me carry so many books when I am travelling and sometimes I go to five cities in one week. Between these two devices, I have 5000 books. I just love reading.
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Esha’s travel guide
Santorini, Greece I went swimming under the sulphur-infused waters of an active volcanic crater on the island of Nea Kemani in Greece. The experience was out of this world and thrilling. Vatican City There is a tour to help you explore the catacombs under the Vatican City. It is magical and you have to book it at least six months in advance. Cambodia I visited the Bayor Temple in Angkor in Cambodia. It has the faces of the kings carved in the temple stones and it is a monumental sight! Even parts of Lara Croft: Tomb Raider were shot there. I feel it is very flattering when people compare me to Angelina Jolie.
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Dhak dhak…
Madhuri Dixit Nene is one woman who knows how to juggle different worlds successfully. Resurfacing in movies, she is having a good time on at television and her online dance school has got a fabulous response. To top it all, she looks as wonderful as ever.
Telly tale I am totally enjoying the Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 6; the celebs on the show are amazing, even more are the kids on the block. We have something for everyone on the show. Talking movies Yes, I will be on big screen very soon. Gulaab Gang is in the post-production stage, we will soon be promoting the film across the country. A few days of shoot are left for Dedh Ishqiya. Balancing act Balancing telly, films and home doesn't come easy. Prioritising and time management is the key. With kids in school, they are busy in their activities; so I can work through the week. Weekends are family time that we all look forward to. Web world It's been just two months that we launched dancewithmadhuri.com and got a huge response from all across the globe. We have the experts in different forms give lessons, right from Pandit Birju Maharaj to Remo to Terence Lewis. Dance along I am a huge fan of Bollywood dancing. My favourites are Vaijayanti Mala, Waheeda Rehman and Helen. I quite also like Kumkum especially in Madhuban Mein Radhika Nache Re. Face facts For looks, it's important to eat healthy, exercise well as well use the right products. With pollution taking its toll on the skin, I bank on Olay's products. It's newly reformulated Regenerist range powered with skin energising technology is very effective. The derivatives of olive oil in this microsculpting cream and serum increase penetration of anti ageing ingredients to make skin more hydrated and firm. Missing Denver Mumbai and Denver are both my homes now. Spending time mostly in Mumbai now, I do miss Denver; the hilly area, the Rocky Mountains and the very sense of space. And, also all the four seasons! Audience love I have been really fortunate to have the love and affection of the audiences. I hope this beautiful bond continues and grows! mona@tribunemail.com
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John Lennon’s first car, home goes on sale
The first car and house bought by Beatles legend John Lennon are up for sale for a combined price of 14 million pounds. The blue Ferrari 330GT has not been driven in a long time, while, the Tudor mansion in Weybridge, Surrey, was home to Lennon and his first wife Cynthia between 1964 and 1968.
Less than a year after buying his house, Lennon passed his driving test and didn't have to go any further than his front door to pick his first car, reported a publication. Lennon strolled round the assortment of deluxe Aston Martins, Maseratis and Jaguars, before forking out 6,500 pounds - around 110,000 pounds today —for the Ferrari. He did 20,000 miles in the classic Italian motor before selling it three years later in 1968, the same year he moved out of the house. Experts expect the classic, which boasts a 4-litre V12 engine and a top speed of 152mph, to go for 220,000 pounds when it goes under the hammer next month. — PTI
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New Releases
Vidya Balan and Emraan Hashmi Jodi will be once again seen in Ghanchakkar after The Dirty Picture. The film which has Rajesh Sharma and Namit Das is produced by Disney UTV and releases today all over. The real locations bring life to scenes. So apart from shooting on Mumbai streets, the director Raj Kumar Gupta also shot in the Mumbai's local trains as well. Vidya Balan essays the role of a Punjabi housewife. It has been a happy transition then, from the girl-next-door to a housewife in this film. The buzz is that Ghanchakkar is totally different from regular comedies. Or slapstick, it is a bit quirky. Yet it has got the mass connect. Singer Altaf Raja of the Hum Toh Thehre Pardesi fame makes a comeback to Bollywood with this most keenly awaited comedy. Watch interesting lead pair Vidya Balan-Emraan Hashmi in Ghanchakkar, an out-and-out masala entertainment. The Heat Laugh the blues away as Fox Star Studios brings for viewers a rib-tickling crime action comedy fiesta as their highly anticipated film The Heat releases today. The Sandra Bullock-Melissa McKarthy starrer is directed by Paul Fegg. The film has bawdy laughs and real emotional stakes. Catch Sandra Bullock-Melissa McKarthy in action and doing what they do best as the hilarious The Heat.
— Dharam Pal
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Date with television
After the super success of his Punjabi film Jatts in Golmaal, Aarya Babbar is now getting many TV offers as well. But the actor whose work was noticed in Matru Ki Bijli Ka Mandola wants to focus on his next film Naughty Jatts. Television is achoice he doesn't rule out. "I love to host shows, if I get something really creative on TV I would definitely do it. I am not too sure about being part of the reality shows," the actor said. Aarya watches TV whenever he has time and he praises actors and directors who have enlarged the canvas of TV.
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Astro Turf
ARIES: Working with colleagues and gaining their support will lead to faster progress on assignments. You are good at getting people to express their opinions and keeping your own hidden. Tarot message: Don't build into accepting situations you dislike.
Lucky
colour: Aqua TAURUS: You're not undecided, just trying to understand what others around you are thinking so you can plan ahead. Avoid new debt or excess spending. Loved ones may not fully understand your needs. Tarot message: Take things one at a time instead of multi pronged attacks. Lucky colour: Sea Green Lucky number: 48 GEMINI: Do not overlook a chance meeting that may lead to future romance. Kick old habits and adopt a healthier life style with more time for meditation and relaxation. Tarot message: Watch your action at work and polish your public relation skills. Lucky
colour: Mauve CANCER: You are likely to find an ideal partner. Be bold to speak out what is in your mind. Professional success will blend with anxiety as changes are imminent. Delays can be expected today. Tarot message: Beware of depleting your energy or resources on others. Lucky
colour: Peach LEO: You will be able to enjoy interacting with people who share your views and thoughts. Your ability to communicate effectively will help you to enhance your reputation. Tarot message: Arrogance and pride will not be rewarded. Lucky colour: Chocolaty brown. Lucky number: 55 VIRGO: You find ways to express your creativity and emotion. Your personal interests are likely to be stagnant. This should be a pleasantly sociable day. Tarot message: At work, a setback would be followed by a rapid advance, so don't worry. Lucky
colour: Burgundy LIBRA: Today a long cherished dream may come true. A date with your lover will finally come up. Do not try any short cuts as they may misfire. Be understanding and keep in mind the likes and dislikes of your mate. Tarot message: Do not refuse offers without seeking the advice from someone else. Lucky colour: Sap green. Lucky number: 29 SCORPIO: Youngsters should be capable of entertaining themselves and they will be happiest left to their own pleasures. Complicated family issues require consideration. Tarot message: A dissatisfactory phase will need gentle handling rather than temperamental extremes. Lucky colour: Sky blue Lucky number: 44 SAGITTARIUS: Inception of new business venture is just on the cards. Minor jealousies are best addressed in the moment. Tonight plan creative distractions or group events. Tensions will be easily forgotten. Tarot message: Feel free to change your mind. Lucky colour: Pink Lucky number: 37 CAPRICORN: A close friend needs delicate advice concerning strained relationships or unexpected emotional triangles. Past disappointments provide valuable social wisdom. Tarot message: If you insist on leading a fast life, you may aggravate your
problems. Lucky colour: Maroon Lucky number: 54 AQUARIUS: This is a strong time for shared enjoyment with family. Tonight review financial records for forgotten payments. Tarot message: Trust your heart and intuition do not confuse yourself. Lucky color: Yellow Lucky number: 61 PISCES: This is an excellent time to adopt new routines, foster friendships or develop unique hobbies. Over the next few days a potential friend or lover may bring social drama into your life. Tarot message: Do not get tied down by any promise. Lucky colour: Orange Lucky number: 46
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Sonam Kapoor is quite technology savvy and familiar with the latest phone applications (known as Apps) in the market. She talks about her favourite ones and their utility in her life.
Esha Gupta is a gorgeous girl who loves travelling and has been lucky enough to do so because of her modeling assignments and now movies. She talks about her top three memorable holidays.
Ghanchakkar