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Blazing blouse
Years back, the promoters of fusion fashion began their sojourn westward by Indianising the red carpet best bet — gowns. Alongside they carried Indian wear, saree and lehanga choli to give them a Western twist. The fusion part was more organic than forced, as the outcome was classy Anarkali gown, sensuous corset blouses. The choli or blouse was never again the humble garment with the hemline just above the navel!
At the recently concluded couture weeks — India Bridal Fashion Week and Delhi Couture Week - fashion designers invented several versions of choli and blouses; each gave Indian costumes a global appeal. We take a look at the experimental shapes and ask designers how the new blouses have been received by their clients. This season too, peplum has been a favourite silhouette with designers. In the beginning of the year, style critics contested that it has run out of fashion but little did they know then that from prêt, it will make its way to the couture collections as well. It added to the magnificence of the voluminous off-shoulder lehanga by Ritu Beri. The golden peplum looked ideal with maroon, making it a perfect choice for a bride. Even a Satya Paul's lehanga in yellow was paired with an off-shoulder peplum lace blouse. The fusion element was so strong that it would have easily passed for a gown if the model's midriff wasn't visible! While most of the designers make creations that flaunt the midriff, Rina Dhaka preferred to cover it with an extended panel of choli in one of her designs. "It was inspired from the shorter panel attached to the Rajasthani choli. The signature element was picked up and added length to hide the midriff that swells up after tying the lehanga string," says Rina about the bustier choli with a panel done in mirror-work and pop colours. A reason to alter the silhouette of choli is also to make the dupatta redundant. In a couple of designs presented at the couture week, it was seen attached to the choli itself. In Nikhil Shantanu's collection, To Die For, flowing, fluid lehangas were paired with cape-like uppers. The bandhgalas with a yoke had asymmetric hemlines and dupatta was amiss. "The change is meant to please the modern bride who doesn't want to be bogged down by the weight and work of her costume," Nikhil shares the reason behind the non-conformist design. If bandhagala was the designer duo's pick for their collection, Rohit Bal and Gaurav Gupta in their respective collections introduced the Victorian collars in blouses, which earlier left the cleavage half bare. Rohit's was a frilled little black collar, but Gaurav made sure the collar sides stood high and mighty to catch attention. Gaurav shares about the unusual design, "Victorian collars give us the much-needed break from deep-plunging necklines. They add drama to the costume. And if not the bride, we are sure it's worth a try for the bridesmaids." There are other names too such as Anju Modi, Anamika Khanna and Ashima Leena who added length to the choli, or the dupptta to it, or maybe just a few frills. But it is certainly not the same anymore. And if Tarun Tahilaini didn't add fabric to the choli, he did take out some to present something that was an ideal blend of a bra and blouse. Would you like to term it braouse? ashima@tribunemail.com
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Young notes
They promise to stir up emotions hidden deep within and transform the moments into memories, all with the power of their music. While we are yet to test that with the one-year-old Sufi-rock band Zikrr, they come all armed to test the waters. "Apart from other compositions, we will be performing a remix of Dil Se Re and blues version of Intehaa Ho Gayi. We've reworked the compositions and hope the listeners enjoy and appreciate it," shares Jatin Arora, the lead vocalist, in Chandigarh for a performance at Blue Blazer.
Deep poetry combined with some ganji music is how they'd like to describe the music that the seven-member band produces. The students of Delhi University came together through common friends and jamming sessions while learning music at a professional institute. "Now we meet twice a week and jam for four to six hours." While balancing studies with music is not a problem, the exams are! World of music
Sufi is the word for this Delhi-based seven-member band. Shares Rahul Simon, "We want the people to at least once delve into the sphere of Sufi music. It's beautiful and we want them to experience this beautiful genre through us." Coming ahead is a, yet untitled, album. manpriya@tribunemail.com
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Morphed muffins!
Kandla Nijhowne A healthy breakfast is one that pumps us up with nourishment and energy to last through the day, bringing with it, a happy feeling of fullness! Whenever possible, oily and rich foods should be substituted with wholewheat, bran, fresh fruit, protein and minimal quantities of fat. Muffins, unlike cup cakes are relatively low on sugars and fat, thus making them better for health. Muesli has become a popular 'all-in-one" wonder that gives us all we need, straight from a single jar! How about adding egg to it, so you get a protein-punch, and more nuts for energy, and wholewheat atta? What I'm getting at is that you combine all these wonder foods and bake these delightful muffins which will satisfy, as well as nourish the fussiest eater! Muesli muffins
* ½ cup mixed nuts (raisins & chopped almonds) * ½ - ¾ cup sugar * ¼ cup refined oil * 1¼ thick buttermilk (or lassi) * 1 cup atta * 1 tsp baking powder * ½ tsp soda * ½ tsp salt * 1 large egg Method * Combine the muesli, nuts, sugar and oil in a wide bowl. * Add buttermilk or lassi, then let the mixture stand for 30 minutes. * Sieve together the atta, baking powder, soda and salt. * Lightly beat the egg and add to the muesli mixture. * All at once, tip the sieved, dry ingredients onto the egg and muesli mixture. * Stir lightly till the components are all moist. * Fill up paper case up to ¾ th level with the mixture, leveling the top with a knife. * Bake at 190-200 degrees C for 14-20 minutes. * When risen and springy to touch, remove to a rack for cooling.
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All about Roshan
Rakesh Roshan talks about his upcoming Krrish 3, his son Hrithik, his fitness mantra and more… Making of Krrish 3
Fitness mantra Jeetendra is 70 and in the best shape. I must thank him for my physique. He is such a disciplinarian. For the last eight years, he has not touched a drop of alcohol. Of late, he has turned a vegetarian. And the best part is he will not touch carbohydrates. All of us in the group try our level best to emulate Jeetu, but we can't match his willpower. Yet, exercising and eating right has become a way Phase by phase I truly believe one should do what one is good at. I'm a filmmaker and I should only experiment with filmmaking. I don't want to be an exhibitor, distributor or start making television software. I don't want my mind to be diverted. Most actors have made the mistake of starting their production houses when they are at their peak. Producing films takes its toll on your face. Filmmaking is about failure and success. Most of the time, it is failure. When an actor's production faces some hassle, the stress shows on his face. So imagine, if he is shooting on some set and he gets a call saying, the film he is producing has an issue, it does affect him. I believe actors should do at least four films at a time when the going is good and venture into other aspects later, when they can concentrate on it. God has given an actor a face and physique, which he must use in front of the camera, at least in his youth. Hrithik the perfectionist Hrithik is a perfectionist. For him, 110 per cent is 100 per cent. For me, 90 per cent is 100 per cent. He sees everything minutely. After every shot, I look at him to find out if he is okay with it. He assisted me for five years and knows everything from screenplay to direction and editing. We understand each other well. So, when I am directing him, I know exactly how he will perform and accordingly, I place the camera. Hrithik is one of the finer actors we have. Having said that, I am equally charged about directing other actors. For example, Vivek Oberoi is the villain in my film and he showed the same level of discipline and passion as my son. Also, if there is a two-hero project, I'm game for it.
Bappi back in action
Neha Bhasin, who had earlier sung Dhunki from YRF's Mere Brother Ki Dulhan was roped in to be Priyanka's voice for this song. And when it came to the male voice for Ranveer Singh and Arjun Kapoor, both Ali and Sohail were very clear, "It had to be Bappi da". In contemporary times, his is perhaps the only voice that strikes a chord with all age groups. And the magic that he generates is something only he alone can do. Bappi da was thrilled to be a part of Gunday. He added some of his characteristic nuances to the song that were a rage in the 80s. "I'm very excited to be a part of this, I have worked with Sohail's father Sameer many years ago and now I'm working with his talented son. This song is a crowd puller.
Troubled star Lindsay Lohan has bounced back from her recent stint in rehab by partying with British boy band The Wanted. The Mean Girls star was released from a clinic in California at the end of last month after spending 90 days undergoing a court-ordered treatment programme, and she has now celebrated her new-found freedom with a night out in LA.
Lohan reportedly attended The Wanted's show in Costa Mesa and pictures have emerged on Twitter showing her posing for fans' snaps with band member Max George, who she was previously rumoured to have dated. The pair continued the party in Los Angeles at the Mondrian West Hollywood hotel, and the bash sparked numerous noise complaints from fellow guests before it was shut down. — PTI
How Farhan looked like Milkha Singh
"Since this was a biopic, the biggest challenge was to make Farhan's hair look as close as possible to the real Milkha Singh's natural hairstyle. So we used hair extensions on Farhan to give his character a very authentic and genuine look," explains Nidhi. "Even though the film had a really intense shooting schedule, we all really had a blast on the sets. The whole unit gelled together as a family. I feel really lucky and blessed to be a part of such a great movie!" says Nidhi. Nidhi has also effortlessly crafted trendy hairstyles in a host of other movies, including Zindagi Milegi Na Dobara, Don 2, Zilla Ghaziabad in the past and is currently styling Farhan's hair for Shaadi Ke Side Effects.
Day to reckon with
We have loved the rugged and macho Randeep Hooda right from his Bollywood debut in Mira Nair's Monsoon Wedding, but Randeep's acting career goes back to the days when he worked in theatre and attended imagination and improvisation workshop conducted by Naseeruddin Shah at the National School of Drama in Delhi. After A Wednesday, Anjum Rizvi along with Channel F Entertainment's Aatef and K Asif bring yet another power-packed thriller John Day to be released on September 6 starring Naseeruddin Shah and Randeep Hooda in a never seen before avatar. Hooda says, "I have this history with Naseer bhai, I have been associated with theatre since the very beginning of my acting career and I am an active member of Naseeruddin Shah's Motley Theatre Troupe. Working with Naseer bhai in John Day gives me a different high altogether. He makes me want to do the best in every shot I've given in his presence on the sets." Randeep gathered accolades for his character in Murder 3 earlier this year. He claims, "I have done some scenes that I could never have imagined doing. I am sharing screen space with Naseer bhai which makes it all the more better and exciting." Randeep recalling his earlier days, mentions, "Naseer bhai supported me during my theatrical debut as a writer which was directed by Ratna ma'am herself. It is overwhelming working with your mentor." Hooda concludes, "In John Day, Naseer bhai has brought out the best in me."
Veena seeks blessings
Veena offered her prayers with flowers and a chaddar on her head. "I feel happy to visit Ajmer Sharif and get a chance to offer prayers," says Veena. "I seek blessings from Allah for me and my movie The City That Never Sleeps. I also pray for my family and someone special in my life. I am eagerly waiting for all my films to get released and hope for their grand success," she adds.
Meyer in the middle
Twilight author Stephanie Meyer is the connecting thread for Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart Actor Robert Pattinson and ex-girlfriend Kristen Stewart have been leaning on Twilight author Stephanie Meyer following their split.
The scribe called the former couple to check on them when news broke about the end of Pattinson and Stewart's relationship. "Stephenie Meyer has reached out to both Rob and K-Stew to make sure they're good after the breakup. She's kind of like a big sister to them and they love her, so she's been a perfect person to talk with," a source said. Pattinson recently reached out to Stewart and was spotted leaving her house in LA. "He stopped by on the weekend and they both spent some time together," the source added. — PTI
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Sing along
The unit members of Indian Idol Junior celebrated Eid with Imran Khan and Sonakshi Sinha on the sets of the show. The actors visited the sets of the reality show to promote their film Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai Dobara. Imran Khan and Sonakshi Sinha will be seen in the episode, which is based on qawali .All the contestants will be dressed in the signature qawali attire and will sing qawali songs.
In & out
Rumour has it that Sanaya Irani walked out of an Eid special episode after some rehearsals. Roopal Tyagi of Sapne Suhane fame stepped in and shot for the act in three hours flat.
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Astro turf
ARIES: Get real about your daily routine and make it a happy one. Meetings and negotiation with potential contractors, employers, employees and consultants can be productive. Tarot message: You find within yourself a fountainhead of will power.
Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 47 TAURUS: Pay grocery bills on time. It is probably a better period for working in familiar surroundings than for travelling. If you are worried about health you should consider alternative therapies as a cure. Tarot message: At work don't hold back anything from your employer. Lucky colour: Metallic grey. Magic number: 42 GEMINI: Spend this perfect day with your sweetheart. Drop whatever you had scheduled and dedicate yourself to the one you love the most. Answer business correspondence that have been long outstanding. Tarot message: You must share responsibility with others before continuing. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 35 CANCER: If you have recently taken on a new job or contract make sure to negotiate and organise all the specific terms and conditions. A greater work load is likely to be placed on your shoulders. Tarot message: Don't make impulsive decisions in personal relationship. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 40 LEO: Today is the test to know how competent you are in your profession. Those in charge, will be carefully watching your every move. Do not pay too much attention to gossip about loved ones. Judge all situations yourself. Tarot message: You gain by being practical. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 32 VIRGO: Sudden encounters with an extraordinary character leave a mark on your life. You are unlikely to forget such incidents quickly. Work & domestic duty follow a familiar pattern today. You will find it difficult to reach agreements with loved ones. Tarot message: Don't be emotional. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 25
LIBRA: Do your best to comply and satisfy your partner. Employment affairs may be somewhat unsettled especially in the morning. Home & family affairs will be most enjoyable when the time comes to relax and unwind. Tarot message: Do what is right. Lucky colour: Sky blue. SCORPIO: The cash should be flowing in your account today. This abundance is a result of your hard work. Long-term projects and contracts will pay off well. Mental work will be stimulating. Tarot message: You are advised to focus on professional changes. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 32 SAGITTARIUS: It is a case of making hay while the sum shines. Relationships move to closer intimacy. Do not make the mistake of working late. Once you have decided on a certain course of action stick to your guns. Tarot message: You have to push to succeed. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number:
40 CAPRICORN: Turn on the charm and the world's your oyster. Be sure to take full advantage of the good opportunity that comes your way. It is a perfect day to clean up the house. Enjoy an early dinner and go to bed. Tarot message: Work on yourself Lucky colour: Peacock green. Magic number: 51 AQUARIUS: Income may dwindle and expenses could rise. Do what you can to improve your mind. You will enjoy in the company of the person dearest to you. Do not mix friends and finance. Tarot message: Focus on the better to mitigate the bitter. Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 65 PISCES: Make an effort to apply for a job you really want. Do not neglect the daily grind by focusing all your attention on your partner. Do not let too many people in on what you are planning. Warmth and joy can flow to you in romance. Tarot message: Empty promises are certain. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 61
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* 1 cup muesli
Krrish 3 is one of the most extravagant and difficult films being made in India. There are a lot of special effects involved. And I am looking into everything, from merchandising to supervising the visual effects etc. We have given the VFX work to Shah Rukh Khan's company and the entire project will take 18 months to complete with a budget running into several crores. SRK's VFX studio is one of the finest in the country. Three hundred technicians are working on the effects.
YRF's Gunday starring Ranveer Singh and Arjun Kapoor, along with Priyanka Chopra and Irrfan Khan, in lead roles will see Bappi da in action! It's hard to imagine Hindi music of the 80's without Bappi Lahiri. Even harder to fathom pop music from Kolkata minus its beloved Bappi da. So, when director Ali Abbas Zafar decided to make a cabaret song for Gunday, set in Calcutta of the 80's, Bappi da was an inevitable choice. It brings together YRF and Bappi da for the very first time. "For months we were trying to come up with this cabaret song, but a good melody was eluding us," says Sohail Sen, the composer of Gunday. "It is meant to be Priyanka Chopra's introduction song in the film, it had to be special." Then one day, a melody fell into place. It was bang on. It's a number that combines jazz with brass and drums, something that was hugely popular in those days. With not too many days left for the shoot, the team got into action immediately.
With everyone talking about Farhan Akhtar's Milkha Singh look in the recently released super-hit biopic, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag what not many people know of is the genius behind Farhan's perfectly styled mane, b:blunt hairstylist Nidhi Chang. This young and upcoming hairstylist from India's premier hairdressing destination salon b:blunt worked painstakingly with her artistic team and director Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra to create the most natural Milkha Singh look for Farhan.
Randeep Hooda will be seen with the National award winner Naseeruddin Shah in Channel F Entertainment and Anjum Rizvi Film Co Production's upcoming thriller John Day.
After Akshay Kumar and Sonakshi Sinha, it was actress Veena Malik's turn to visit the famous religious shrine Ajmer Sharif in Rajasthan, to seek blessings for the success of her film, The City That Never Sleeps. Veena visited the Hazrat Khawaja Moinudding Hasan Chisty Dargah at Ajmer.