Energy 24/7
Looks, charisma …positivity, Anil Kapoor has all in abundance. Perhaps the reason why he is as eager about his upcoming television show 24 as a newcomer. In Chandigarh, he shares some secrets…

Ashima Batish

Shhh…the secret behind Anil Kapoor’s elixir of life is about to be leaked. He might reveal it anytime, providing us some relief from the dreaded thoughts of criss-crossing wrinkles and sagging skin. Looks like he too had a few drops before coming to Chandigarh on Monday to promote his show 24! His energy is unbeatable; his charisma enigmatic, the spirit to still work and achieve exemplary, as Anil Kapoor gets talking.

He is as excited about his work as a newcomer; partially because of 24, Indian adaptation of American series, a thriller and first-of-its-kind in India, and partially due to the simple fact — he has always been active and agile. After over three decades of a successful career in Bollywood, Anil takes the route to the small screen, “With a show that promises story, a lot of action…backed by emotions.”

On the big screen
He might have switched tracks to television, but that doesn’t mean we will not see Anil Kapoor on the silver screen. He will be seen essaying the role of Sikander in Raj Kumar Santoshi’s untitled next and playing the title role in Abhishek Sharma’s Sharma Ji ka Item Bomb.

Dream project

Before Anil Kapoor bought the rights for the show, he acted in the original version’s Season 8. He found the concept and format of the story narrated in 24 episodes very intriguing. “It is relevant for the Indian audience, as we too have suffered from terrorist attacks; we too are so vulnerable,” says the actor who plays the protagonist, Jai Singh Rathore, an ATU officer. The show has been adapted according to Indian sensibilities and is not a mere copy of the original. Thus it has its own screenplay writer, Rensil D’ Silva, and director Abhinay Deo of Delly Belly fame.

It also boasts of several other big names from the industry such as Shabana Azmi, Anupam Kher, Rahul Khanna, Richa Chadda, Anita Raj and Mandira Bedi. “Surprisingly, casting was the easiest part of it all. We were all eager to make a show with a difference, something that becomes a benchmark for Indian television.” The show 24, which will hit the small screen on October 4, is rightfully expected to fill the void created by sob stories and shoddily made thrillers. “Hopefully, this will trigger-off a trend wherein substance is preferred over similarity of content.” He says that 24 couldn’t have been transformed into a film in India, even if Bollywood is a more popular medium of entertainment, “Only 24 different episodes can do justice to it.”

Real effect

Anil’s aim with his character is to make it as memorable as the ones he has played in his films, be it of Munna, Nayak, Lakhan, Mr India or Prem Pratap Patialawale. But playing an ATU officer isn’t just about slipping into a bullet proof jacket and carrying a gun. “I started training for my character during the shooting of Shootout at Lokhandwala, in which I had to play a college student. I lost seven kilograms and stunned Sanjay Gupta with my leaner, fitter look.” He also undertook strength training; after all he had to play the Indian Jack Bauer. That’s not all, Anil says he started carrying a fake gun and wearing a lighter bullet-proof jacket. “To ensure that on the sets, carrying a gun comes naturally to me as an employee of ATU.” To deal with fiction as rationally as possible, he spent time with ATS officers, “It helped me get under the skin of my character.”

Happy world

Finally, Anil lets the cat out of the bag about ‘his young looks’. Besides regular exercise regime and planned diet, it’s positivity towards life. “I don’t feel insecure about other actors minting hundreds of crores at the box-office. I am happy in my own world, with my family; my time-to-time quests in Hollywood.” Rest, he says, is all in the genes. A Punjabi that he is, staying fit is not that big a deal! “My great-grandfather died in his 90s and my father passed away at 86 all because of the rich Punjabi diet! What matters the most is contentment with life and peace of mind. It is this that keeps one young and going.” Finally, his elixir of life revealed!

ashima@tribunemail.com

The correct focus
Documentary film-maker Sanjay Maharishi loves to do things differently. And the results are there for everyone to appreciate…
Manpriya Singh

Sanjay Maharishi
keen eye: Sanjay Maharishi

As a film-maker, he makes it a point to delve into the unobvious and bring forth the unknown. Documentary film-maker Sanjay Maharishi’s love affair with the camera began as a child when his father, veteran theatre personality Mohan Maharishi, gifted him one. It was only a matter of time when his passion for the instrument turned into a profession. “Commercial cinema has never interested me. I’ve worked in Bombay for three years but that’s not what I want to do. It’s a lot of headache and just not for me,” he shares, while in Chandigarh for the screening of his films as a part of the Chandigarh Creative Cinema Circle’s Sunday with Film Maker initiative.

Lately, he’s been documenting theatre performances through his camera and thereby merging the stage and the silver screen. Precisely what he did In The Making Of a Tamasha—a film where he takes us through the nuts and bolts of Tamasha performers.

He adds. “Recently, I have delved into this genre. There are very less films on theatre and there is a lot that can be done. I have seen my father closely — how he would work and the things he would bring to the stage.”

Then there’s My Village is Theatre, My Name is Habib that was premiered at the Prithvi Theatre. The film focuses on the internationally acclaimed director Habib Tanvir. Before anybody jumps to conclusions, there’s a clarification. “It is not a biography. We shot the film when we were travelling along with them.”

In the film, the director and his actors talk of the life spent virtually on the road travelling the length and breadth of the country as well as abroad.

In the process, he ensures that the camera captures the very essence of the production and not just the body movement or dialogues of the actors. There is also the Travelling Documentary, an initiative in collaboration with United Nations. As for his ideas and inspiration, “I take things as they come; sometimes the ideas and subjects are right there and I go ahead.”

Coming up is a collaboration between theatre actors and circus artists. “It’s been shot in Kerala because that’s where circus is still popular. As a child, we have grown up watching circus. Now there is no circus for which television is to be blamed,” he laughs. The untitled film yet again delves beneath the surface and strides into an unchartered territory.

manpriya@tribunemail.com

Blending well
Ayushmann Khurrana and Yami Gautam, though not fashion conscious, are happy to walk for Vikram Phandis
Amarjot Kaur

Yami Gautam
Yami Gautam

The second day at the Blender's Pride Fashion tour demonstrated entropy as it tip-toed on the lines of expression and drama. While Wendell Rodricks brewed interesting western flavours to the event as he had Jesse Randhawa and Sandip Soparrkar sizzle the ramp with their dance moves, Vikram Phandis had Ayushmann Khurrana and Yami Gautam, draping much elegance to his traditional cult. We catch up with Ayushmann and Yami for a little conversation at the green room, just before the event.

"This is the second time I am walking the ramp for Vikram, who is also a very dear friend and I think he is extremely talented," begins Ayushmann. He adds, "I really like the way that he makes the bandhgala sherwanis." When it comes to personal style Ayushmann swears by the regular t-shirts and denims. He believes that most of the trends are rather radical. "I think fashion is all about mood and trends I believe have no logic, because most of the time they defy comfort," he avers.

Ayshmann Khurrana
Ayshmann Khurrana

So how easy is it for an actor to translate a designer's product into fashion? Ayushman replies, "Actors naturally are not ramp models since that requires one to have neutral expressions. But in the capacity of an actor one can translate the designer's creation an extension of his own personality that blends with the theme and story of the show."

Ayushmann's has released a new single, O Heeriye, a couple of weeks ago and presently he is shooting for his new films—Bewakoofiya under the Yash Raj banner and Bumbai Fairytale, which is a biopic. "I would like to do Punjabi cinema, but I think Hindi is a better option because you act better in the language you think in," he signs off.

Yami Gautam, all dressed up for the show, says, "This is the first time that I am walking the ramps as a showstopper for Vikram and I have always liked his collection." When it comes to her personal style, she says, "I was never the sort who was fed on fashion. I fancy floral print shirts and dresses. I believe comfort is very important and one must look presentable." On the work front, Yami says, "I just completed shooting for Aman ki Aasha opposite Ali Zaffar and Action Jackson that has been directed by Prabhu Deva," she signs off.

amarjot@tribunemail.com

It’s happening
From Iran, with love

The Chandigarh Sangeet Natak Akademi and Chandigarh Film Society are organising an Iranian Film Festival with the aim to understand and appreciate the diversity of cultures.

"This time our focus is on Iranian Cinema. You must be aware that many international film festivals have honoured Iranian Cinema in the last two decades. Many internationally renowned filmmakers and film critics consider Iranian cinema as one of the world's most important artistic cinemas." says an insider.

The Akademi plans to hold series of activities related with the non-commercial cinema in the future.

Films screening schedule
Beloved Sky

(Aseman-e- Mahboub) - Directed by Dariush Mehrjui, the film is the winner of Best Director's Award at the 2011 Fajr Film Festival.

A doctor seemingly doomed by a brain tumor is thwarted in his suicide plan when an unscheduled sojourn in a village that time forgot changes his destiny. With a sure touch, Mehrjui infuses the story with magic realism and the sensibility of simpler times as a mysterious herbalist and a traumatised woman become key to unlocking the past and the future for a man resigned to having no tomorrow. A colorful ensemble cast, stunning landscapes, and more than a few glimpses of tasty Persian cuisine make this film a treat for the eyes.

October 4 at 6 pm

Here Without Me

Directed by Bahram Tavakoli, it won the

Best Film Award 2012 at London Iranian Film Festival in the UK (UKIFF), Montreal Film Festival, Hamburg International Film Festival, Cleveland International Film Festival (CIFF), Tiburon International Film Festival (TIFF), Shanghai International Film Festival in China.

A contemporary Iranian adaptation of Tennessee Williams' Glass Menagerie, Here Without Me recounts the story of a single mother working hard to find a match for her shy and lame-legged daughter, while her son dreams mostly of cinema and running away from family obligations.

October 5 at 6 pm

The Child and Angel

Director by M. Nqashzadhthyhknndgan, it won the Best Film Award at the 14th Schlingel International Film Festival, Germany and Iran's 23rd Hamedan International Film Festival.

A young girl named Fereshteh (angel) sees what may come in the following days. She is obliged to cross the war front to search for her brother. Fereshteh finds what she's already seen in her dream: Living in world of the dead; a becoming reward for an angel.

October 5 at 7:50 pm

So Far So Close

(Kheili door, kheili nazdik) -Directed by Reza Mirkarimi, the film won many awards at the 24th Fajr Film Festival. The film was also selected as Iran's representative for Best Foreign Language Film at the Oscars.

An arrogant neurologist must examine the meaning of his life when his son is diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour. His trek through the desert to catch up with his son's astronomy field trip leads him to encounter a number of seemingly ordinary people who challenge his views and values

October 6 at 6 pm

As Simple as That
(Be Hamin Sadegi)

The film is directed by Seyyed Reza Mir-Karimi.

Tahereh, a traditional middle-aged woman lives with her husband Amir and their two children in Tehran. She is a housewife who devotes her life to looking after her family but instead she gets little attention from her workaholic husband and her demanding children. Tahereh has almost no time for herself. She starts to think about leaving her family but she does not have the time to run away.

October 6 at 8:10 pm

At Tagore Theatre, Chandigarh

The Color of Paradise

(Rang-e khoda) Directed by Majid Majidi and nominated for an American Academy Award 2000, the film is based on Mohammad, a boy at Tehran's institute for the blind, who waits for his dad to pick him up for summer vacation. While waiting, he realises a baby bird has fallen from its nest, he chases away a cat, finds the bird, climbs a tree, and puts it back. His father finally comes and takes him to their village where his sisters and granny await. The lad is a loving student of nature and longs for village life with his family, but his father is ashamed of him……can anything bring father and son together?

October 4 at 7:45 pm

Veggie delight
This Vegetarian Day, Chef Hari brings fresher and super enticing flavours
Mona

Pure, serene ambience in white and light blue; clear, uncluttered space and a handful of scrumptious vegetarian delicacies, Virgin Courtyard-7 is celebrating the Vegetarian Day in style! Chef Hari has weaved magic with Italian delicacies. Italians known for using the freshest of ingredients has translated on to your plate. Right from the food presentation, taste, the food is wow and the twist of ingredients lends it newer tastes. Chef Hari who has worked at TGI Friday's, Olive Bar & Kitchen, Delhi; P&O Cruies, Southampton and with Michelin Star Chef Gianfranco Chiarini is all for healthy food and healthy lifestyle.

"It was the concern towards the cause that made us go for this festival. Seventy five per cent of Indians today are unfit, and food plays a major part in it," says the chef. If soup is Roasted Tomato with Parmesan Pudding, starters are Ritual of Ricotta and Fried Gnocchi. We strongly recommend salads. Panzanella has fresh tomatoes tossed in cucumber, onion served with bread. To pick a pasta is not easy, but our choice of Cannelloni hits the nail. Wrapped in cylindrical pasta, stuffed with assortment of vegetables and ricotta with tomato saffron sauce is a delight. The taste of saffron with hint of basil makes you savour the flavour. Orange Panacotta, Italian cooked cream flavoured with orange and Banana pizza steal the show in desert section. Sweet basil water served with meals adds only to the rich gourmet experience. The event is supported by People for Animals. "Vegetarianism is a way of life. And, requirement of today," say its founder director Payal Sodhi. She shares the facts: a goat before it becomes a meal clears sixteen hectares of land. "Being vegetarian is healthy and economically, environmentally a more sustainable practice."

The special vegetarian meal is open for 10 days starting October 1. Meal for two will cost around Rs 1,200. Enjoy the scrumptious food and do your bit for the planet!

mona@tribunemail.com

Master Chef
So sweet!
Ranjan Dibya

We cannot do without appeasing our sweet tooth and then what is a good meal without a yummy dessert? But then what do we do about the monster called calorie? So a healthy alternative would be a less sweeten dish which pleases the senses as well is light on the sugar content. This is a fruit-cum-rice dessert which sure would be welcomed by any gourmand.

STEWED PEACH WITH SWEETENED STICKY RICE

Ingredients
For the stewed peach
120 gm canned peach
200 ml orange squash
50 gm sugar
2 cinnamon sticks
For the sweetened sticky rice
100 gm Thai sticky rice
100 ml coconut milk
50 gm sugar
Pinch of salt
5 gm tapioca flour
For garnish
Caramelized orange rind
Mint leaves

Method
Stew the peach in a syrup made with orange squash, sugar and cinnamon sticks for 15 minutes. Remove from fire and let it cool.
Soak the sticky rice in water for 6 hours and steam for 30 minutes till done. Make a sauce out of coconut milk, sugar and pinch of salt. Thicken will tapioca flour mixed in water.
Mix the cooked rice with half of the sweetened coconut milk. For the presentation mould the sticky rice in a plate and put a peach on top of the molded rice, Pour the sweetened coconut milk, garnish with mint leaves and caramelised orange rind.

(Dibya is a culinary expert)

--As told to Poonam Bindra

TRENDSETTER
Street smart

As someone has rightly said- The man makes the clothes, a handsome is what handsome does. This is what Karan Chopra believes in.

Your sense of style:

Simple and sober. Denims and a T-shirt work perfectly for me.

Latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories?

T-Shirts from Lacoste and a watch from Fossil.

Brand crazy or street pick-up?

It depends, if I like the thing, it can be from anywhere.

Who do you think is the worst dressed celebrity?

Chunky Pandey, he really needs a complete makeover.

Who would be your style icon?

Ranbir Kapoor. I like him for his versatility.

Which look would you prefer - sporty, chic or glamorous?

I would prefer sporty look as it makes me comfortable.

One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension…

Low waist jeans, I don't understand how women can walk in it.

Your take on accessories…

I love to wear classy watches and I have a good collection of footwear.

What gives you a high on the confidence level?

A little appreciation and a smile from others makes me feel confident.

— As told to Mona

Say bye to spills

Wrangler, the original outdoor denim brand, launches water repellent denims, Denims with a special treatment that makes it water repellent thus making it stylish yet comfortable. These denims repel everyday spills and stains and provide an additional level of comfort.

The new range of water repellent denim in new exciting washes, fits and sizes. These denims protect the wearer from moderate rain, snow and wet conditions. It helps one survive long rides on bikes and muddy slush from puddles. The denim is water repellent but not water proof and can be washed like any other denim. On ironing, the water repellency of this denim improves.

Experience these water repellent denims at a Wrangler store with an innovative window display that will get your adrenaline running. Key Wrangler stores also have a trial zone where you can test these denims for their water repellency.

So ride to your nearest Wrangler store and lay your hands on your favourite pair of Wrangler water repellent denims.

The water repellent denims are priced at Rs 2,995 onwards. — TNS

Best foot forward

Chandigarh based Creativatorss Event & Production organised a fashion show cum grand finale for North India's Next Top Models at Elante Mall. Earlier, the auditions to shortlist the models for the grand finale were held in Chandigarh, Ludhiana, Ambala, Kurukshetra and Patiala. The selected models were trained through various workshops and rehearsal.

The shortlisted 40 male and 20 female models took part in the grand finale. Abhinav Dhir from Ludhiana was adjusted the title winner in the male category, while Sabby Suri from Chandigarh got top position in the female category. Both were awarded Rs 50,000 cash prize each. Prashant Bhardwaj, director, Creativatorss Event & Production said that the winners would get chance to work as professional models with Creativatorss Event & Production in various work assignments like still shoot, print advertisement, video songs and TVC. — TNS

star track
Meet Sadhana Singh’s daughter Sheena

Sheena Shahabadi first shot into fame with Satish Kaushik’s Teree Sang as the unmarried teenage mother. She will soon be seen in latest thriller Raqt. Acting is in her genes. Her mother Sadhana Singh was the heroine of films like Nadia Ke Paar.Sheena Shahabadi

About her role, Sheena says, “My character in Raqt has varied shades. I play a girl who has been brought up by her aunt. This girl ends up developing a strange possessiveness for her mother and does not want anyone to get close to her. She will even not mind killing anyone if that is the only way to keep them away from her mother.”

Interestingly, it was her childhood dream to become an actress and her mother has been her constant support. “As a five-year-old kid, I had made up my mind that I wanted to be an actress. In fact, I started grooming myself when I was just 16-year-old. Of course, initially my parents were surprised that I was really serious about this profession. But it didn't take them much time to understand my passion for doing films. My mother supported me whole heartedly,” she adds.

Living dream: Sheena Shahabadi

Good to bad

Actor Sidharth Malhotra has wrapped up Karan Johar's production Hasee Toh Phasee and is now looking forward to playing the bad guy in Mohit Suri's The Villain.

"The film is over... we have just finished the whole film last week. So Hasee Toh Phasee is over. Now, I am ready to make people cry and get angry as The Villain starts soon," the 28-year-old said in an interview.

Hasee Toh Phasee, directed by Vinil Mathew, also stars Parineeti Chopra. It is slated for a Feb 7 release next year.

Sidharth believes Suri can bring out the bad in him. "I am getting into a new role, I will have a different look which we will get into next week. So very excited to start working with Mohit Suri. He is the best guy to bring out the bad in me," he said.

The actor, who made his Bollywood debut with Student of the Year, is also looking forward to a new look and character for The Villain.Sidharth Malhotra

"This look will change, we will try something new for The Villain. Mohit is known for styling his actors very well. He is very much into the look and different clothes. So, hopefully I will have a good character to play in The Villain," Sidharth said. The Villain is an Ekta Kapoor production and also stars Shraddha Kapoor and Riteish Deshmukh. — IANS

Changed track: Sidharth Malhotra

War saga

Actor Soha Ali Khan seems quite excited about her upcoming film War Chhod Naa Yaar, being promoted as India's first war comedy film, where she is playing the role of a war correspondent.

"This particular representation at border is unique. I always wanted to go to theSoha Ali Khan border and I was looking to get an opportunity to go to Kargil. Sharman Joshi and I went to Wagah Border when we were shooting for Rang De Basanti. I always had this imagination of going there after seeing Border, LOC and to know as to what happens there," she said.

"I am doing live reporting in the film for some time and interacting with Army officers. She meets Sharman Joshi, who is a good looking Army officer," Soha said. — PTI

Playing journalist: Soha Ali Khan

Rajjo ready to rock

Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Ram Leela was set to enjoy a solo release in the coming festive season. However, now Kangna Ranaut starrer Rajjo is too releasing on the same date. Director of Rajjo Vishwas Patil says, “I was waiting for an apt time to bring the film. Even though the main character Kangna (or Rajjo) plays a Mujrawali in the film, it isn't a somber or depressing film by any means”.

The release date of a film is a matter of importance and thought about at stretch. November 15 was decided as the release date for Rajjo, after a lot of brain storming.

Rajjo would incidentally be arriving just twelve days after the release of Krrish 3 (November 3) in which Kangna would be seen in an action role. The makers of Kangna Ranaut in Rajjo Rajjo says, “Once the final cut of the Rajjo was seen by people concerned, there was an added sense of confidence.". We will also get a chance to see two stunning actresses Kangna and Deepika playing title roles in their respective films.

About the film Kangna seems confident, she says "Rajjo is really close to my heart and I am glad it is being released this festive season. As for competition with other films, there would be one every week in any case. I am sure my producers are taking a good call and it comes from the trust and confidence they have in the product. I am particularly proud of the film and my work. The film is special and it will fetch audience of it's own. I strongly believe in director Vishwas Patil and music director Uttam Singh. Once you see the promos, which would be out very soon, you would know what I mean." There is no doubt that the actress has put in a tremendous about of hardwork into the film, lets hope in works in her favour.
Date clash: Kangna Ranaut in Rajjo

Press pressure

Zareen Khan Zareen Khan wasn't the conventional slim and trim Bollywood actress when she entered the film industry with Veer but now she seems to have lost a lot of weight. She says it's not for a film but for the media.

"No, it's not for any film. I have lost the weight for you all (media)...there was a lot of criticism from you all," Zareen told reporters at an event recently.

The actress had to go through a lot of criticism for her weight when she joined the film industry. However, she is said to have been switching between power yoga, cardio boot camp and weight training to get into shape. Last seen in Housefull 2, she will now soon be seen in director Remo D'Souza's next project, starring Rajeev Khandelwal. "I am also doing a Punjabi film," said Zareen. — IANS
On training: Zareen Khan

Katy Perry praises ‘genius’ John Mayer

Katy Perry Singer Katy Perry has praised her boyfriend John Mayer's "genius" mind. She also says she wants to donate his brain to science and figure out "how all these sparks work".

"He literally is a genius, as is evident from his song writing,” said Perry.

"I always tell him, 'Darling, you know I'm going to have to give your mind to science after you've passed, because we're going to have to understand how all these sparks work,'" she added. — IANS

in love: Katy Perry

Divya’s Oscar pitch

Actress Divya Dutta, seen in a key role in Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra's biopic Bhaag Milkha Bhaag feels the film deserved to be shortlisted as India's official entry to the Academy Awards this year.

Bhaag Milkha Bhaag is based on the life of former athlete Milkha Singh and featured Farhan Akhtar in the title role. It garnered huge acclaim from both the critics and the audience.

"I would like to say that there were many films that were shortlisted for it, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, The Lunchbox, Ship Of Theseus. I think we deserved but it didn't happen," Divya told reporters at an event.

But Divya is also happy for the Gujarati film The Good Road that has been chosen as India's entry for Oscars. — IANS

A slice of our past

Filmmaker Shyam Benegal is currently directing a unique, 10-part mini-series which showcases how the Indian Constitution was framed.

For over a month now, Studio No 5 at Film City in Goregaon, has become the Central Hall of the Parliament House, where the constitution drafting committee had its debates between 1946 and 1949. The studio has housed a replica of the Central Hall of that period and over 150 actors have gathered there to tell the story of the making of the Indian Constitution for a 10-part mini-series called Samvidhaan, directed by Shyam Benegal and produced by the Rajya Sabha. We caught up with the veteran filmmaker to talk about the series…

What made you agree to the project?

There was no question of agreement as I wanted to do it. I was a member of Rajya Sabha for six years. We have such a fine constitution. The Constituent Assembly of India, which consisted of about 154 people, sat for two years, eleven months and seventeen days to draft the Constitution. However, the present generation isn’t aware of the various parameters of this marvelous constitution. So, it’s our effort to tell the story of how our founding fathers and mothers fought against all odds to give a democratic shape. It’s very important for the people of India.

Did you research a lot for the show?

Yes, it took almost a year and a half to do the research for the show and to get the details right. However, the set was made in just a month.

How has been the experience shooting for it so far?

We started shooting on August 15 and so far it’s been enjoyable. We will complete the shoot by the end of November and hopefully it will air next year. I felt it was a good idea to turn this into a series.

Do you think it will create awareness among the audience?Scene from series Samvidhaan

Certainly, that’s why we are making it! The show is a dramatisation and fictionalisation without losing the facts. The thought behind the project was to make it as entertaining as it will obviously be educative.

Will attract the young audience?

It depends on how creative we make it without losing facts or telling lies. We have done our best to do justice to it while also maintaining its historic authenticity and flavour.

The show will star actors like Sachin Khedekar, Dalip Tahil Ramani, Atul Tiwari, among others.

Scene from series Samvidhaan

chatter box
A peep into Rashtrapati Bhavan

On this year's commemorative Gandhi Jayanti celebrations on October 2, Discovery Channel presents to its discerning viewers an exclusive journey inside the majestic Rashtrapati Bhavan. The show titled Revealed: Rashtrapati Bhavan will be showcased only on Discovery Channel on October 2 at 9 pm with a special repeat at 11 pm.

Discovery Channel brings this amusing programme in sync with the pro-national sentiments rampant on Gandhi Jayanti. The programme captures the story of Rashtrapati Bhavan amazingly, right from its conception to its completion. The Rashtrapati Bhavan, amongst the largest presidential estates of the world, was the heart of the British plan for a new imperial capital. The show will showcase the history of this building on two parallels. One story follows the shift of capital and the efforts of Edwin Landseer Lutyens as the architect of this house while the other takes viewers through the sprawling palace and its magnificent rooms. Every element in the Rashtrapati Bhavan has evolved over the past eight decades where the building has witnessed the transition from an imperial occupation to being the home of the head of the largest democracy in the world.

The palatial residence is an extended expression of architect Edward Lutyen's passion and finesse. From the most spectacular room in the palace, Ashoka Hall, to the Dwaraka Suite now used for serving the state guests - this exclusive insight into the President's House answers a spectrum of questions on what lies behind the high gates. The programme also brings to light the design of the residence, the creative culinary quotient as well as the history and intense security.

A view of the Rashtrapati Bhavan
A view of the Rashtrapati Bhavan

Double dhamaka Giaa Maanek

Going by the ongoing trend of playing double roles in television shows, viewers will soon get to see one more actor playing a double role. Buzz is that Giaa Maanek will be playing a dual role in SAB TV's Jeannie Aur Juju. Giaa, who essays the character of Jeannie on the show, will be greeted by the evil Jeannie who will visit her from Jinland. As a matter of fact, she will be a source of trouble for Juju (Ali Asgar) and the original Jeannie because of the pranks she plays on them. As a repercussion of the chaos, Juju will again be seen meeting trouble. However, all will depend on how Jeannie faces the situation and puts an end to the chaos.

twin treat: Giaa Maanek

The lucky mascot

Anuj Sachdeva Anuj Sachdeva recently flew in his lucky mascot, his dadi, all the way from Delhi into Chandigarh for his film Haani's premiere. We hear that Anuj considers his 'dadi' to be lucky for him. "My dadi's support and blessings mean the world to me. She is one of the strongest pillars in my life,” says Anuj.

special guest: Anuj Sachdeva

Starry eyes

Model Asif Aslam is the latest to enter the reality show Bigg Boss 7. Having worked and walked in major fashion weeks all over the world, this Bangladeshi is looking to make a name among the audiences.

Why did you join Bigg Boss?

Asif AslamMentally I am prepared to go into the house. It is a big show and is a big opportunity to reach out to the masses. My agenda is to make a place in the hearts of the people of India.

What do you think of the contestants in the current show?

I have seen them. Some people are playing for the team while others are using their negativity. It is a challenge for the contestants to work with each other.

Who do you like the most currently?

I like everyone equally.

What is your background?

I started my career in Australia and did shoots for a famous magazine. Then I did fashion weeks in Japan and Bangladesh as well. I was born and brought up in Bangladesh, but was invited to model in India.

How long do you expect to be in the house?

For as long as it takes. — HRM
Asif Aslam

Voice over

Christina Aguilera and Cee Lo Green are back to the signature red swivel chairs for the fifth and latest season of the Emmy-winning vocal talent competition show, The Voice. The Voice Season 5 will reunite the original team of celebrity musician coaches — Adam Levine, Christina Aguilera, Blake Shelton and Cee Lo Green—that started it all.

The reunion promises to bring back the amazing chemistry, including the 'bro-mance' - among Adam Levine and Blake Shelton, in addition to America's most exciting new singing talents.

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Get real about your daily routine and make it a happy one. Meetings and negotiations 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: It is probably a better period for working in familiar surroundings than for travelling. If worried about health, you should consider alternative therapies as an additional aid to healing. 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 sweet-heart. Drop whatever you had scheduled and dedicate yourself to the one you love most. Answer business correspondence and pay bills. 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 upon your shoulders. Tarot message: Don't make impulsive decisions. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 40

LEO: Today is a test of your competence. Your performance is on public view and those in charge will be carefully watching every move you make. The day favours those of you treading unfamiliar ground. Tarot message: You gain by being practical; don't be emotional. 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 and domestic duty follow a familiar pattern today. Tarot message: A practical approach is best. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 25

LIBRA: Your lover will be craving attention whether you are in the mood or not. Employment affairs will be somewhat unsettled, especially in the morning. Home and family affairs will be most enjoyable. Tarot message: Do what is right and watch your best interests. Lucky colour: Sky-blue. Magic number: 28

SCORPIO: Cash should be flowing into your account today. This abundance is not due to luck, but all because of your hardwork. Long-term projects and contracts can be paying off handsomely. Tarot message: Focus on professional changes. Lucky colour: Deep-red. Magic number: 32

SAGITTARIUS: The run of good business continues. It is a case of making hay when the sun shines. 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: Be sure to take full advantage of a good opportunity that comes your way. Singles are in luck and those with partners are back in the saddle. It is a perfect day for a clean-up around the house. Tarot message: Apply yourself better to succeed. Lucky colour: Peacock-green. Magic number: 51

AQUARIUS: This is a day for workaholics, which is great if you love your job. Income can dwindle and expenses rise. Do what you can to improve your mental health. Friends and finance will not mix. Tarot message: Focus on the better to mitigate the bitter. Lucky colour: Forest-green. Magic number: 65

PISCES: Make efforts 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 know what you are planning. Tarot message: Empty promises are certain; put your terms and conditions in writing. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 61

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is October 1...

Remember the old saying: 'If life gives you lemons, make lemonade'. You need to be prepared to handle unexpected trends in finances. Take care of increasing expenses. Health will be normal. Benefits at work will increase your confidence. You are realistic, distinguished and intelligent; you possess a high intelligence quotient. You need to deal with situations more efficiently. Pursuing a course of study will be fulfilling.

An emotional situation needs attention, especially if it involves elders. Financially, this will be a favourable period.

Positive colours: Golden, Red, Brown, Cream.

Select days: Sunday, Monday

Favourable numbers: 1, 4, 2, 7

Gems recommended: Ruby, Red Coral

Charity on birthday: Donate saffron-coloured clothes to saints.Shraddha Nigam

You share your birthday with Shraddha Nigam (October 1, 1979), who became very popular after her debut serial Choodiyan. She then played the role of a detective in popular serial Krishna Arjun along with Hussain Kuwajerwala. The stars do not support her career in the glamour world.





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