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Govinda ala re
Sometimes nothing makes sense…the stars are in the right position, but still something is amiss. Govinda, the name conjures a colourful image of an actor who has danced his way into the hearts of people. But on Thursday, after a day's wait at the launch of upcoming Punjabi movie Aapan Vehle, Chichi is lost in his own world — spiritual, religious and astrological!
Of course he smiles ear-to-ear, but we miss the glint in his eyes - courtesy his aviators. Talking about the dark glasses, the entire crew sported a pair! Aapan Vehle, which is an entertaining Punjabi film according to the director Sahil Mahala, brought to Chandigarh a battery of stars across two days of conferences — Shakti Kapoor, Upasna Singh, BN Sharma, Yuvraj and Navraj Hans, and Govinda. Govinda sure is a crowd-puller. Mobile cameras zoom-in with each shot; fans waiting patiently as he begins, "The world is moving into a beautiful phase, everything should be good." Govinda in a Punjabi movie is big news! "I have asked them to make a good movie and tell me where I can fit in," he says. Two bracelets in both his hands, the talk of stars and astrology; his desire to pay obeisance at Naina Devi… Govinda is surely on some higher plane! "Not really spiritual, but I believe in the blessings of god. Have you seen how a tree stands silently, bearing fruits for everyone," he takes a pause and never returns to the sentence! So, do we expect a Govinda kinda dance? "Yes I will be seen in a number and now with so many expectations it is scary; I really want to do well." He wants us to wait and watch till the film comes out, but he is clear about his pace in Bollywood. "I will be seen in three films out of which Kill Dill will be under my home production," says Govinda. So, is daddy Govinda launching his beautiful daughter Narmada? "Yes next year," he smiles. Before we call it a day, someone throws a compliment — 'Govinda you look good, lost a lot of weight also'. We thought he will fling away his glasses and show us that bright glint, but he doesn't. "I owe it all to my mother and now meri biwi jo khaney nai deyti," he laughs. The bad man We now shift the focus onto the bad man Shakti Kapoor. What did you expect…hold your horses, everything is safe! Even though his first Punjabi movie didn't fare well, Shakti has taken another step in this industry. Does it say a lot about the growing Punjabi industry? "I am a Punjabi so I had to do a film here. Besides, there is nothing like failure. I have worked in many languages and Punjabi is also happening," he adds. Aapan Vehle, the title of his film is pretty suggestive? "Do you think Om Puri or Akshay Kumar are vehle as they are working in Punjabi films as well; it is a title with a meaning," says Kapoor. Star power Aapan Vehle stars the two brothers Yuvraj and Navraj together for the first time. Interesting! What is more interesting is the bua from Comedy Nights with Kapil, Upasna Singh. She stars in the movie as well. "I didn't know Comedy Nights with Kapil would be such a big hit; it is now on the number two spot," says Upasna, who adds that she has learnt a lot from Shakti Kapoor. Read Bollywood film Loafer! "Women are conscious when they are doing comedy. They can't be so bold," she says. jasmine@tribunemail.com
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Portal presence
It’s a different angle given to the usual concept of virtual shopping that has made these twelve youngsters earn brownie points. While most of the online portals follow the ‘business to consumer’ model, their portal, agentsbids.com, also works on the ‘business to business’ programme. And now, it gets them 7,500 hits each day! A brainchild of Surjeet Singh, agentsbids.com was born out of a personal experience. “I wanted to go on a honeymoon and each portal I tried getting a deal from gave me a different figure. I was so disillusioned that I found it extremely difficult to trust any portal,”
Surjeet says.
What came out post a few brainstorming sessions with friends was the idea of a portal that provided consumers with the best deal. “And that isn’t possible till you place all options from a particular field together. So, we brought all agents on a single platform and asked them to bid for deals.” It’s a win-win situation for all, but consumers do have claim to certain extra benefits. Explains team member Manpreet Khurana, “For a holiday plan or to purchase a property a consumer will not have to call up different travel agents or property dealers. All one needs to do is register on agentsbids.com and put up the requirements. The agents will bid, giving plenty of options to
customers.” It took the team one year to conceptualise and finalise the product. “Before even the trial run of the portal, we wanted to be sure that it’s not similar to existing portals that offer services in the field of travel, property, insurance, loan and holiday,” Surjeet adds. The team also made provision for protecting details of the customers. “We didn’t want agents to bother our customers with calls of offers.” Little wonder then, the portal featured at the 11th position globally among the top-100 start-ups identified by Mattermax, a website that evaluates standing of such ventures. As of now, the portal caters only to service users and agents in the tri-city, but gradually hopes to expand further. ashima@tribunemail.com
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Shining bright
For years, Roopa Vohra has been working towards reviving the old craft of handmade jewellery. In the pursuit, she has many a times designed for those who belong to the glamour industry but has never switched to their territory. She doesn't want to be referred as part-celebrity- part-jewellery-designer like her counterparts, who are socialites in their own right.
Roopa is happy to be known as the jewellery designer of India who revived theva and made it popular once again. She wants her designs to be seen on celebrities rather than she being spotted with them. "I am now working towards mainstreaming handmade kundan jewellery. They are popular already but stones are laser-cut, which steals the elegance of the jewellery," says Roopa, who will be in Chandigarh for her exhibition on September 13 at The Taj. This time, she is bringing to the city her Jhalak collection, the name derived from the Madhuri Dixit's appearances on the show Jhalak Dikhla Ja. "All the jewellery pieces she wore on the sets were my designs. It was the production house that approached me because they felt that my designs complimented her personality." Also a part of the collection will be samsonite jewellery, made from the African store samsonite. "Be it samsonites, emeralds or rubies, every stone is hand-cut so that their lustre is not compromised with." She promises an old-world charm and regal look in all her creations. When a lot of jewellery brands are coming out with minimalistic designs, she still votes for the statement pieces. "Jewellery has to be opulent; it has to be a connotation of luxury, it can't be just a few diamonds clustered for the heck of making an ornament." The collection will boast of many colours, courtesy the precious stones. "It is designed keeping in mind the modern-day bride,” she says. (On till September 14)
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A family of six
Poonam Bindra
The statement by cookery expert Veenu Dhanda, 'We always say that there are six members in the family', speaks volumes of the affection they have for their handsome canines. A golden Labrador, who answers to the impressive name of Simbha and the golden retriever aptly named Hero who seem to understand the statement. They both come and gracefully squat in the lobby for that is their designated area. Arsheya, the young daughter of the family tells us that these two-five-year- old Simbha and two-year-old Hero-- were the best buddies and rather they could be also called as soulmates. If one is unwell and not eating the other will also turn his face away from the food. They are quite content with each other's company and have a room of their own. Love me, love my dog "We look after them ourselves. We even trained them without a dog trainer' informs Veenu. As if to demonstrate their understanding skills, Arjun the younger one of the dog loving family, holds out a biscuit to Hero but also gives the command of "wait" and poor Hero though drools over it, does not move till he hears the order of "take". Initially fed on pedigree food for dogs the two now eat family food and really enjoy dal chawal and chicken biryani. Both of them love to take baths and only Simbha does not like water being splashed over his face. Keshav Dhanda, the patriarch of the family, gets amused when he sees his daughter using exclusive shampoos for them and even blow-drys their hair to make them glow. Yours faithfully "When I was unwell recently both of them would not move from my room. Hero was pawing me as if willing me to get up," informs Veenu on an emotional note. Veenu, who had no pets in her parental home, declares that this is one the best gifts she has got after coming into this family. These two clever canines can sniff out dog lovers and they maintain a cool distance with those who do not love dogs. As we see Hero frisking around and Simbha looking indulgently and the family glowing with a loving pride we know that we have come to a true dog lover's home.
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Bake your cake and eat it too
Manju Dewan
We can never have enough of cakes and that too the choclate ones. How often have we drooled over the dark creamy wonders which tempt us in the 'state of art' bakery joints? Why not bake a chocolate treat for the family members at home and then revel in the compliments by making this one following these easy steps…
Ingredients 200 gm flour ½ cup castor sugar 100 gm butter 1 cup chocolate syrup 1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking soda 200 gm Milkmaid 1 tsp vanilla essence 1 tsp honey 100 gm coke To garnish few chocolate peels 10-12 candies 4 tbsp melted chocolate 1 tsp orange decoration beads (Dewan is a Ludhiana-based — As told to Poonam Bindra Method
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Simply dosa
Pride KC Hotel and Spa, Panchkula is organising Dosa Festival at their multi-cuisine Restaurant, Water Court Café. The menu will offer 101 variety of dosas, which can be ordered on a la carte basis. Some of the noteworthy vegetarian varieties are pesarattu, made with green moong dal, rawa dosa, healthy low calorie dosa, Jain dosa, sweet dosa, cheese dosa and paneer dosa. The kids can also have their favourite varieties of pineapple dosa, banana dosa and papaya dosa. For non-vegetarians, you will find scrumptious egg dosa, chicken dosa, mutton dosa, mali chicken dosa, crab dosa, shrimp dosa to mention a few. Dosas are served with sambar, ginger chutney, mint chutney, sweet coconut chutney and spicy podies. —
TNS On till September 15.
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Star track
After getting critical appreciation for his work in Mujhse Fraandship Karoge, Mere Dad Ki Maruti and Bombay Talkies, Saqib Saleem is a part of a film being directed by Amole Gupte. He is Huma Qureshi’s brother but the two are so busy that they hardly meet even though they stay in the same flat in suburban Mumbai. He talks about making it in Bollywood and more.
By chance I’m an accidental actor. I would do nothing but play cricket before acting happened. One day, someone suggested that I try modelling and I said, ‘Why not’. One thing led to another and I ended up in a film (laughs). In all honesty, this is the first time I’ve received undivided appreciation. Nothing was planned as my career suddenly took off. For some serendipity In 2008, I told my dad that I wanted to move to Mumbai and stay independently for at least a year. Luckily enough, modelling led to advertisements, which further led to my meeting Shanoo Sharma (casting director). I’d be lying if I said that I haven’t been lucky. Yes, talent matters but I’m sure there are thousands of guys out there who are more talented and better-looking than me. It’s something I keep reminding myself everyday. There have been many events of serendipity in my life that have lead me to where I am today. Critics do matter People from the industry often say that they don’t take reviews seriously. Well, I do. I’ve read almost everything, even a small blog that was written about my performance in a film. I don’t bother with gossips but I can’t afford to not know what people think about my work. I need to stay connected with the audience. I like writing and expressing myself through words so it’s quite obvious that I’d like to read what others have to say. Unconventional choice People in this industry like an actor to have a set image because it’s convenient for them. I don’t believe in this formula as I feel that an actor should try everything under the sun. Adapting is what our job is all about! Besides, I’m not that guy I play in a movie. Look at Ryan Gosling or Ranbir Kapoor - the kind of films they are doing is what sets them apart from the rest. I also admire Leonardo DiCaprio for his choice of films. Like I said, they simply refuse to be typecast. On Partho Gupte Partho Gupte (of the Stanley Ka Dabba fame) is adorable as well as gifted. I’m playing his skating coach in our upcoming film. And from my experience of working with him on the sets, I can tell you that he’s the finest child actor we have right now in the industry. He won a National Award for Stanley Ka Dabba, which was his debut film and I won’t be surprised if he repeats it again with this one. At such a young age, he’s more than amazing.
The Box-office darling
Deepika Padukone is going places both personally and professionally. She has set yet another record after a trilogy of blockbusters. She is being paid a whopping Rs 6 crore to be the face of a soap brand. She is taking over from Katrina Kaif.
Meanwhile, Deepika Padukone might have to let go of the seventh installment of The Fast and The Furious, which she was selected for. This is because of date issues. She is currently shooting Happy New Year in Dubai and the makers of the Hollywood flick wanted her dates from September to January.
Aamir’s back in action
Aamir Khan was secretly away from Mumbai for a month. He didn’t inform anyone about his whereabouts or what he was up to. But now that he’s back, the cat is finally out of the bag. We got to know that he was in Australia to learn a particular form of dance and trained for nearly a month to dance for just a few minutes. That is why he is called Mr. Perfectionist!
Look that’s Sonakshi’s dad!
Veteran actor Shatrughan Sinha’s rather substantial ego took a knocking recently when a group of students didn’t know who he was.
The children were waiting outside Parliament House when Shatrughan Sinha stepped out. He smiled at them but the students showed no acknowledgment as they didn’t know who he was. Luckily, embarrassment was avoided by a teacher who excitedly sought Sinha’s autograph. The students were then educated that the Lok Sabha MP from Patna was actress Sonakshi Sinha’s dad. The proud father must have been happy by that connection. Nevertheless, to be not recognised by the present generation must have been quite a downer for him.
Seeking divine intervention
As lucky as it gets
Sonam Kapoor and Dhanush recently did a commercial together for a popular soap brand, cashing in on the success of Raanjhanna. Sonam was asked to allot dates at a short notice and was paid a whopping Rs 2 crore for the same! Isn’t she lucky!
Win some, lose some
Beauties
get going
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The right act
Sneha Wagh is loved for her role as Ratan in Veera. The actor, who did a splendid job in her earlier serial Jyoti, talks about her journey and passion for acting. While other actors are quitting the show due to the impending leap, you are staying on. Why?This role is substantial and I knew there would be a leap in the future when I took it on. So I have no problems. What attracted you to Ratan? She's real and like any other woman. She takes care of her family, kids, works to keep the kitchen fires burning, is a bit snappy but not over the top in dramatic moments or otherwise. You took a course in film-direction after Jyoti, right? Yes. I wanted to do something else in life other than television shows so I took up a course in film direction in the UK. It was educative and fun. I learnt a lot about filmmaking. It was good use of the break from TV shows. Will you be directing in the future? Who knows what's in store. But when I did that course I had no such agenda in mind. It was more of an interest than anything else. I am fine acting in front of the camera as of now. What do you like to do post work? Mostly I like to sleep, as we actors hardly get long breaks. Otherwise watching movies and lazying around at home is what I do in my free time.
Adventure nights
In its mission to offer distinct and enriching content for children, Discovery Kids presents 1001 Nights - an animated series that brings the most famous and charming tales of 1001 Arabian Nights to the screen. Bringing imagination to life is the famed storyteller Shahrzad, who narrates tales of genies, magic and fantasy.
Filled with exciting stories and unforgettable characters, 1001 NIGHTS will air everyday at 5 pm, starting September 15. The episodes will be repeat everyday at 8 pm on Discovery Kids. Rahul Johri, Senior Vice President and General Manager - South Asia, Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific, said, "Discovery Kids offers a perfect blend of entertainment and learning with its compelling content. 1001 NIGHTS is among the most famed collection of folk tales that will interest and entertain kids." While kids have heard of Sinbad, Aladdin, and Ali Baba, there are still 998 more stories to explore! 1001 NIGHTS brings out the best of these captivating tales through laughter, excitement and non-stop fast-paced action that keep viewers coming back for more. The series traces stories back to the 9th century from across Asia covering India, Persia, China and Baghdad. The magical series offers children an enjoyable way to satisfy their natural curiosity as each story unveils messages on harmonious living, generosity and patience. Episodes include The Tale of the Mountain and the Valley, The Broken Jewel, The Genie, The Fish, The Wolf and the Witch, Abu Kassim's Smelly Shoes and The Riddle of the Ruined Tomb. —
HRM
Good move
Big on tube
Vrinda Dawda made an impression with her debut on television in the show Perfect Bride. She was also in Dil Dosti Dance on Channel V. Recently, she saw her dreams of becoming a lead star materialise with Entertainment Hub's social thriller Haunted Nights-Kaun Hai Woh on Sahara One Television. We catch up.
How did Haunted Nights-Kaun Hai Woh happened? The production house Entertainment Hub was in search of a fresh cast. I auditioned for the negative lead and bagged the role. What is your equation with Vishal Gandhi and Jyotsna Chandola? Both are wonderful actors. We really learn from each other. What is the concept of this show? The plot is about the battle between good and evil. How far do you relate your character? There are some aspects of my characters that I cannot relate to. However, I have always believed that if you do your homework properly and study your characters well, you can find most of the traits in you. Is this role tailor-made for you? It is like the biggest challenge that I have had till date. I am playing Vishakha who is very possessive in nature and in love with Kunal. What can you tell us about the show? The show has a totally new concept and new star cast. The production has revamped its popular fiction horror show Haunted Nights. It airs on Sahara One TV. —
Dharam Pal
Fruits of labour
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The year ahead
If your birthday is September 13...
Being born on the 13th day of September, your ruling planet Rahu fills you with a Take quick decisions to excel. Be mindful of your income and expenses to maintain financial stability. Act cautiously, learning to accept the ups and downs of life. You'll be able to stabilise your relationship and feel intense emotions. Positive colours: Dark-blue, Dark-grey Select days: Saturday, Sunday Favourable numbers: 2, 4, 8 Gems recommended: White Sapphire, Cat Eye Charity on birthday: Donate white sweets and clothes to the needy or at any religious place.
You share your birthday with Mahima Chaudhry (born Ritu Chaudhry on September 13,1973), who made her acting debut in the 1997 film Pardes for which she won the Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut. Her horoscope does not promise a good marital life or bright career after 2017.
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New releases
Horror Story
Director: Ayush Raina Producer: A.S.A. Films Vikram Bhatt's latest offering, Horror Story, has generated a lot of curiosity amid people. It promises to be the scariest film produced by Vikram Bhatt. TV actor Karan Kundra makes his silver screen debut with this film. The rest of the cast includes Hasan Zaidi, Ravish Desa, Nishant Malkani, Sheetal Singh, Radhika Menon and Nandini Vaid.
John Day Producers: K.Asif, Aatef A Khan, Anjum Rizvi Director: Ahisor Soloan John Day is an edge-of-the-seat thriller from the maker of A Wednesday. It stars Naseeruddin Shah, Randeep Hooda, Sheenaz Patel and Vipin Sharma. It is a thriller directed by Ahisor Soloman. The film has been produced by K. Asif, Anjum Rizvi and Aatef A. Khan. Music and background score is by Sandeep Chowta. — Dharam Pal
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Astro turf
ARIES: Be particularly wary if dealing with property matters. Get to bed earlier than is normal for you. Don't let dogmatism close your mind to varied possibilities. If an old friend needs you support, get together. Tarot message: Do not expect too much from others. TAURUS: Expensive plans will have to be held in check for the time being. An optimistic and compassionate frame of mind will create a passionate aura. Spiritual issues and quests can lead to some deep thinking. Tarot message: Do not swing away from your course. Lucky colour: Sea-green. Magic number: 26 GEMINI: You can have some difficulty controlling your emotions. Consider getting involved in charitable work. Agreements that have been dragging on for some time can be successfully negotiated. Tarot message: Avoid being hurried and over-anxious. CANCER: Plug away steadily in the background. This is not the time for grabbing centrestage. Consider your course of action seriously before jumping into anything new. Tarot message: Make
compromises outside and come to terms within yourself. LEO: Improvements will continue in the financial sphere. Business matters are fairly under control. Your moods can be up and down all day. A former friend can turn up at your doorstep and have some exciting stories to tell. VIRGO: No need to make any important move. Conditions are too weak at the moment to contemplate fresh operations. You should not be too critical of co-workers. Children can cause worry. LIBRA: An accident can occur if you don't keep your mind on the job. Be especially careful when using electricity equipment. A change of home or job is possible. SCORPIO: Do not give into lethargy. Emotional people can change their mind. Be serious about financial issues. Earnings can be increased if you try. Deception from opposite sex is on the cards. Tarot message: Don't reveal your plans to your competitors. Lucky
colour: Brown. SAGITTARIUS: An early morning disturbance is likely. Renovations or a redecorating project can progress well, especially if you have help from friends. Your energy level is soaring. CAPRICORN: The day is going to be rather slow; plan ahead. Take advantage of other people's experience. Family will be much better company than friends this evening. Focus on meditation or yoga. Tarot message: Dare to accomplish long-term tasks. AQUARIUS: Social affairs are not worthwhile today. There should be no special problems to deal with at home. Self-control and the determination to achieve put you in a promising situation at work. PISCES: This day will be marked for lack of activity. Business will tick over smoothly enough. Hobbies are occupying. Scholars: read a good book at bed-time. Avoid speculation. Do not exercise heavily. Tarot message: Lack of caution can leave you in losses. |
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