Grooming the bride
At the recent couture weeks, designers painted a very experimental picture of the brides. So are the ones in Chandigarh ready to follow the trend? We find out…
Manpriya Singh

Rohit Bal didn't think twice before putting forward his bride in white. The showstopper, Sonam Kapoor, walked off in the colour with the ease of a spirited bird rather than a grounded bride. Shane and Falguni Peacock worked out a rebellious bride in a black gown and a metallic belt. Neha Dhupia admitted to being the Gothic bride for the night and that's where she drew the line. "It took me not more than two minutes to wear it, but I wouldn't wear this dress on my wedding day as it wouldn't let me hug my loved ones because of the belt." Moving on, designer Ritu Beri too brushed aside taboos and painted a white picture.

At the recently concluded India Bridal Fashion Week, designers might have let the showstoppers walk all over the taboos but how far are we from replicating the ramp?

The experiments with wedding outfits might be subtle, but they are certain. Gone is the era when shade card refused to budge beyond pink or peach and the colour contrasts beyond red or green. Nevertheless, that's where we pull all the stops.

"Today, wherever the bride can dictate her own choice she wouldn't think twice before choosing an off white or a black for either a reception or any of the pre-wedding functions," Puneet Brar of SP Square states how the generations have evolved and also the thought process. Or shall we say the style quotient? "Besides the off-white gowns, I recall having done this outfit in Tiffany blue for a reception in California, where the floor-length Anarkali had an extremely deep back with just lace covering it. It was short from the front and long from the back; very experimental."

Not long ago, they'd associate the colour blue with either bruise or blues…certainly not wedding. At the India Bridal Fashion Week, several designers didn't spare a thought for the archetypal kundan set before coming out with bandhgalas. Even a peak winter wedding doesn't invite the covered neckline. "We might be eras away from experimenting with silhouettes and styles but as far as colours are concerned, we have started testing the waters," nods Divya Minocha, from Colourblind.

Speaking of the colours, there are many changes as well. It was only a while ago that the family would restrict the choice to shades of red and pink. "It's no more just one colour outfit that we make for the brides. There are base colours of red, pink and peach contrasted with bright yellow, neon orange, electric blue etc. It's no more just the traditional red combined the typical green," shares Sahiba J Singh, city-based designer. She adds, "For the wedding day, brides only opt for lehengas, Anarkalis or salwar kameez."

It was only about two years ago that we saw Kangana Ranaut sport a green on her wedding day in Tanu Weds Manu. While the colour didn't make the tailors across the country work overtime, it brought forward the idea of alternatives. "There is a huge difference that has crept in and only in the last two to three years," observes Puneet. She adds, "People have always come to me for bold colours. I have always done five to six colours in one outfit. It's just that only now the acceptability has seeped in." Slowly but steadily!

manpriya@tribunemail.com

No child’s play
An expert in the field of value education, Maya Gaitonde believes the best way to nurture values is by upholding them…
Mona

If you fall in the category of folks who are bothered about children not being rooted today, well, there are others who are trying to make a difference.

Maya Gaitonde is one inspiring figure in the field of value education. In Chandigarh, to conduct a seminar on life-skills at the Tribune Model School-29, she is the one to shares life's blessings with others. "I was fortunate in getting spiritual guidance," says Maya, secretary of Bala Mandir Kamaraj Trust, Chennai. She also spearheads Bala Mandir Research Trust. Today, internet is abuzz with 'democratic' parenting, if only we take time and pains to go back to our scriptures; we have it all and more. Maya, who works in tandem with students, teachers and parents, quotes our scripture that recommend lalawath (loving care) for children up to five years, tadawath (discipline) up to fifteen years and mithrawath (as a friend) beyond fifteen years.

Ask her on what ails our society where values are fast fading and she says, "We have lost faith in our strength. When we say aajkal ke bachche, they are following aajkal ke adults and the basic premise is that we need to live the life we expect our children to." It's time we move beyond giving our kids food, clothes, shelter and education. Values are rarely taught but caught, she insists, "Best way to nurture values is by upholding them. Children learn what they see. What we don't trust is our own strength," says Maya.

Parents, teachers and society play a significant role in shaping up a child's life vision and it is here that we, as parents and teachers, must take charge.

Her session with teachers at the Tribune Model School was a wonderful insight on how we can incorporate 'values' in regular subjects — maths or science. Enlist friends' support, make kids aware on being sensitive to others around and focus on abilities rather than 'disabilities' are some lessons the kids must learn in the class. If you are interested in more, reach out for the series Living in Harmony that Maya has co-authored and has been published by Oxford University Press.

mona@tribunemail.com

Tip Time

With extensive experience in promoting positive parenting, Maya Gaitonde has some tips to share.

Children will be devoted to and love a dutiful parent.

Children will emulate the ethical values of the parent.

Children will venerate and respect a virtuous parent.

Children will be obedient if parents honour their word.

Give your children time.

Star Track
Promotional drive

YRF's Shuddh Desi Romance will soon be starting with the promotions. Sushant, who hails from Patna, has requested YRF to include his hometown for the same. Now, Parineeti Chopra too wants to follow suit and visit her hometown Ambala.

Sushant didn't get a chance to promote Kai Po Che at his hometown, but the actor doesn't want to miss a chance this time. Both the actors are very keen to promote their film in their respective hometowns. The city promotions will take place tentatively during second or third week of August.

The film has generated quite a lot of buzz in regards with its casting. Sushant and Parineeti share a strong chemistry. Besides, Vaani Kapoor, who will debut with SDR, also has created quite a stir. It's the first film which has been entirely set in a small town like Jaipur.

Shuddh Desi Romance is a fresh and very real love story. A romantic comedy that finally tells it like it is!

The spokesperson confirms the news and adds "Sushant and Parineeti both have been quite excited to promote Shuddh Desi Romance in their respective hometowns. Both are newcomers and full of energy. To have their film being promoted in their own hometown, it's a different feel altogether."

Winning the race

Farhan Akhtar has scaled new heights of excellence and success with Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. The movie is inching towards the Rs 100 crore mark and deservedly so! It has also been made tax-free. He talks about the impact the movie has made on his life and more.

Big success

The movie's success has given me a lot of confidence. I will continue to look out for movies and roles that are challenging. It has helped me break my urban mould and image because Milkha is a completely desi character. We never imagined that we would have such a big success but we hoped for the best and worked hard. I am so grateful for the acceptance the movie and Milkha Ji's approval.

Touching tale

There is something about Bhaag Milkha Bhaag that has touched people's hearts. BMB has appealed to all strata of society. Shah Rukh Khan called me and said, 'Apni picture hit ho gayi!' That was so touching!

Reel vs real

My problem as a kid was that I never followed up on anything. I was a vagabond at 17. The guy in Lakshya is quite similar to who I was because I would get excited about something and then lose interest in about two three weeks. While the change in me did not happen overnight, my life has come full circle with BMB. I had to give a commitment of time and hardwork no matter what. I had to dedicate myself to the movie and to my role.

Right inspiration

I was motivated by the right people during this movie. The presence of Yograj Singh Ji was amazing. He plays my coach in the movie and in real life, he is a cricket coach. He pushes and nurtures you. He does an amazing combination of pampering and torturing. He makes you give your hundred per cent.

Different roles

My first dream was to be an actor and in the process I became an actor, director, writer, producer and singer. I am enjoying everything I do and that is the best part. I am currently planning to act in an Excel production and doing live concerts. I will let life take me where it wants to.

Real inspiration

It seems that Nargis Fakhri's journalist character in Madras Cafe is based on journalist Anita Pratap. This is because Anita was the first scribe to interview slain LTTE chief Prabhakaran and in the movie, Nargis is shown interviewing a fictional character named Anna.

Manjhi to see light of the day

In a relief to the internationally acclaimed film-maker Ketan Mehta, the Patna civil court has dismissed the petition asking to stay the release of Ketan's film, Manjhi— The Mountain Man.

The court passed the verdict in favour of Ketan Mehta, who can now release his film. A much-relieved Ketan Mehta said, "It's an inspiring story with brilliant performances. In these cynical times it's a story of hope, a tribute to the triumph of human spirit. How can any one stop it from reaching out to the people?"

Starring the rising star of India, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Manjhi-The Mountain Man is based on the life story of Dashrath Manjhi. Set in 1960, the movie portrays the inspiring real love story of this poor Shah Jahan. Over 22 years, with just a hammer and a chisel, he carved out a path through a mountain, in memory of his beloved wife who had fallen down while trying to cross it. He did it so that no one else would have to suffer her fate. Inspired by his story, ace director Ketan Mehta decided to make a film on it. The shooting for the film starring Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Radhika Apte was completed in October-November last year on the actual locations in the remote areas of Bihar. However, after the completion of the shooting, someone in Bihar brought a stay on the release of the film. Ketan Mehta argued that Dashrath Manjhi, though a very poor man, was also very famous for his incredible deed and was already a public figure. Thousand of articles have been written about him and dozens of documentary films have been made about him and all these informations are in public domain and there can be no copyright on information in public domain.

Manjhi—The Mountain Man is a co-production between Maya Movies Pvt Ltd and National Film Development Corporation. The movie is co-written and directed by Ketan Mehta and produced by Deepa Sahi and Nina Lath Gupta, with an impressive ensemble cast.

Wise choice!

Kangna Ranaut chose to attend the launch of Krishh 3 instead of her solo film directed by Vikas Bahl. She politely turned Bahl down because she had allotted her dates to Rakesh Roshan for the promotions of Krishh 3 which is the biggest film to release this Diwali and one of the biggest films of the year. 

All is not well

It seems that Vishal-Shekhar skipped a reality show to promote Chennai Express to show their displeasure to Shah Rukh Khan and Rohit Shetty for roping in Honey Singh to compose the Lungi track. They thought Honey was boasting about the deal and the tie-up. The duo felt they were kept in the dark and wanted to show that they were offended.

It’s time to say Bismillah

Saving the best for the last, Balaji is set to launch the final chartbuster from the forthcoming Once Upon A Time In Mumbai Dobaara.

Called Bismillah, the youth anthem which will feature in the film, has been picturised on Akshay Kumar, Imran Khan and Sonakshi Sinha. The club track will be unveiled next week, as part of the countdown to Eid. Recently shot on an elaborate Rs 3 crore set erected at Film City Bismillah promises to set the dance floor ablaze.

Ekta Kapoor says, "We rejected more than 20 songs till Bismillah happened. We knew we had a winner on hand. It is the track to celebrate the festive season."

Music honcho Bhushan Kumar adds, "The response to the music of Once Upon…. has been absolutely overwhelming and Bismillah will take the craze to a new level." 

Pushy sister

Sonam Kapoor's brother and Anil Kapoor's son did not want to become an actor because he is quite shy. He wanted to remain behind the camera but Sonam coaxed him to sign a movie directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra. Mehra approached Sonam to convince her brother because they share a great rapport with each other.

chatter box
Playing a Parsi

Delnaaz Irani is back on TV, in the role of a Parsi this time, in Jee Le Zara. She talks about her role, friends and need to do more films.

Are you are playing a Parsi in the upcoming show Jee Le Zara?

Yes; and the role is a glamorous one. I have played modern roles before, but this time it will be in a different look. Instead of kurtis and jeans, I will be wearing dresses. I play Sangeeta Ghosh's friend in the show.

You were recently doing a play as well. Is it a conscious decision to dabble in different mediums?

I try to take on projects that are interesting as their medium isn't a priority for me. I am equally excited about doing a television show, play or a film. I look forward to attempting new things and doing a play gives me a chance to interact with audiences directly.

Have you known her from before?

Yes, Sangeeta and I have known each other. We did a show called Zara Nach Le earlier. But through this show we will get to know each other better. I met her during the meetings recently and we hit it off well.

Who are your close friends?

I have many good friends in the industry, but some of them like Rupali Ganguly and Karisma Tanna are my close friends.

We heard Big Boss this year is planning to bring the old contestants back. Are you game?

Well, I haven't heard about it or been approached; so I don't know.

Off screen, close friends

Sparks might fly and they might spew venom at the sight of each other on screen, but they are the best of friends once the director yells 'Cut'! Ashwini Kalsekar and Paridhi Sharma, who are currently seen as the scheming Mahamanga and Jodha, respectively, on Zee TV's Jodha Akbar are doing an excellent job of keeping their camaraderie hidden from viewers. Once the cameras stop rolling, the two can be found walking in and out of each other's make-up rooms; talking, laughing and generally having a good time. When not shooting, Ashwini and Paridhi spend a lot of time in each other's company. The two are even known to have gone shopping together on one of their days off from the shoot. — HRM

Walk for a cause

In a steady move to realise her dreams in the entertainment industry, popular TV actor Hunar Ali walked for a cause that she closely identifies with — for BETI by Gitanjali — at the India International Jewellery Week (IIJW). BETI is an initiative that creates awareness and campaigns about issues like female foeticide, acid attacks and women empowerment. Humar Ali sported stunning outfits designed by Mohini.It was a 'show with a heart' where famous TV and film celebrities along with well-known corporate personalities walked the ramp for BETI.

As time moves on

Television's most-loved kid Pihu is all set to bid adieu to the show Bade Acche Lagte Hain, which is going for a nine-year leap. That means Pihu will say goodbye and pave way for the grown-up Pihu. Amrita Mukherjee, who made a special place in the hearts of the audience by playing Ram and Priya's daughter Pihu, has already given her last shot. The unconventional love story of Ram and Priya will continue to entertain with new twists and turns, where the protagonist Ram and Priya will shower love on their 16-year-old teenage daughter Pihu. What is left to be seen is will the new grown up Pihu be able to create the same magic that little Pihu created so effortlessly?

Food for thought

Rumours are that Masterchef India judge Vikas Khanna is dating Top Chef judge Padma Lakshmi. Not only do they stay in the US, but also have a career revolving around food. Padma was supposed to attend Vikas' book release as a chief guest, but didn't come due to these rumours, claim sources. 

Astro turf 
P. Khurrana

ARIES: Your spouse can complain of back-ache. Unexpected money can arrive. Deal with paperwork that has been building up. It is time to slow down and recharge your batteries. Tarot message: Involve yourself in a new project. 
Lucky colour: Peach.

Magic number: 52

TAURUS: Postpone work that requires concentration and physical efforts. Be diligent about sticking to your diet or exercise routine today; you need to pay attention to your health. Tarot message: Let things run their course. 
Lucky colour: Saffron.

Magic number: 50

GEMINI: A neighbour can gossip, but lend an ear and hear something interesting that might turn out to be invaluable information. Tarot message: Avoid the tendency to criticise or judge others too harshly. 
Lucky colour: Peacock-green. Magic number: 35

CANCER: A restless night's sleep can result in irritability. Try not to bite if goaded. A love affair can go wrong. Anxiety can be at an 
all-time high.

Tarot message: Avoid situations that can turn nasty.

Lucky colour: Mauve.

Magic number: 27

LEO: You should not do anything that damages your reputation. It will be difficult to avoid conflict between home life and employment affairs. It will be best to deal with minor issues. Tarot message: Focus on professional changes.

Lucky colour: Black.

Magic number: 32

VIRGO: Romance is your fortetoday. Everybody will love you and grievances will disappear. Love on the home-front will renew your hopes. Keep your mind on business at hand. Tarot message: Do not lend money to strangers.

Lucky colour: Crimson.

Magic number: 57

LIBRA: Confidence and good feelings are in abundance. Don't listen to other people as they can have hidden agendas. Plans for a business merger will be successful.

Tarot message: Do not leave things to chance. 
Lucky colour: White.

Magic number: 39

SCORPIO: New contracts are likely to prove valuable. Communicating with people at a distance should be helpful. Be on your toes to take advantage of the opportunities. Tarot message: Strive for perfection at work. 
Lucky colour: Yellow. 
Magic number: 64

SAGITTARIUS: You will not be able to stick to a schedule. Do not 
rush jobs that require careful handling. It will be best to 
do one thing at a time.

Tarot message: Take no chances despite the assurance of people.

Lucky colour: Orange.

Magic number: 33

CAPRICORN: Do not project yourself too far into the future. A new career, overseas travel, a change of relationship or a residential move are all possibilities. Tarot message: 
Allow a sick situation to blow over before starting afresh.

Lucky colour: Blue.

Magic number: 40

AQUARIUS: Today you will get money from an unexpected source. Important business matters can be handled carefully. Students: fun in the campus foreseen. Tarot message: Be honest to your desires.

Lucky colour: Green.

Magic number: 31

PISCES: A house or office move is unlikely. In public meetings, control your temper. Your private life can be disturbed as the Moon shines its light on your public life.

Tarot message: Avoid being hurried and over-anxious. 
Lucky colour: Golden-Brown. 
Magic number: 60





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