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Twice the fun
The showman of Indian film industry started his career as a 'hero' in Punjabi movie Sherni way back in 1973, the lure of stardom later pulled him to Mumbai. Subhash Ghai's rise and fall has filled tabloids. And he sure makes news now, as he returns to Punjabi film industry after four decades!
Ghai's Mukta Arts produces the film Double Di Trouble. "Being a Punjabi, it's been my desire to make a Punjabi film for long…with the industry doing so well, here I am," says Ghai. It was Sameep Kang's idea that got Ghai on board. "We needed an able cast. Dharmendra fitted the bill. And, so did Gippy, both of them in double role." Ghai chose to do a comedy for he believes troubled by time audiences are looking for relief, which his film will provide. "I have done regional cinema, made films in Bengali and Marathi. Now we are committed to making one Punjabi film a year." Ghai has seen different eras of Indian cinema and he's all for change. "Our society is going through constant change and it is best to embrace it." So, do we see him in the frame in Double Di Trouble as well? Ghai is not certain, but his team is! mona@tribunemail.com Young voices
Gippy Grewal makes no bones about being on the seventh sky, landing a film with Dharmendra. "Growing up when I used to do a little acting people would say —’Tu ki Dharamendra ban jana hai! I am doing a film with him today and I can't explain how I feel." Gippy is in a double role romancing Minissha Lamba and Ragini Khanna. Minissha Lamba dazzles in a suit-salwar while playing a village belle. "I love each day of my work." Ragini Khanna is only too happy to come back to yet another Punjabi film, "It's another opportunity to learn more, which I am always keen on." Gurpreet Ghuggi is pleased at cinema veterans landing in the Punjabi industry, "It's going to be a golden period for our films," he proclaims. BN Sharma too is delighted to be in the company of Dharmendra and Ghai, "We felt stagnated, now is the time to learn." Film director Sameep Kang closes the deal, "Our team does comedies. It's our effort to do better than before."
Going strong
Running into his fifty-second year in the industry, Dharmendra's brood of admirers is only getting strong. When the huge Double Di Trouble cast shows up in Chandigarh on Wednesday, the suited-booted 'He Man' sure invites whistles. Lensmen go crazy clicking him; Dharmendra is at his humble, loving best. "I feel like I am home when in Punjab." He plays a lawyer, is in a double role and romances Poonam Dhillon! "Well, when you see us in this film, you will say this is romance." The veteran actor has been seen on screen constantly, writes poetry and has penned a script too. As for the future, Dharmendra is still raring to go, "I had a dream to make Mirza Sahiba with Bobby. Sadly, today's generation would not relate to it. Lots has changed…our culture is going down," his voice trails off. Do we see his sons too in Punjabi films? "Why not,"he says.
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Queenie size!
Whatever has happened in the past doesn't deter Queenie Singh's belief in the institution of marriage. In the fourth decade of her life and after two kids, she looks forward to marriage again; to live as a unit with someone who promises emotional security. "Love is important. Without love, any relationship loses meaning," says Queenie, who was in Chandigarh on Wednesday to showcase her collection, Jewels by Queenie, at Satya Paul, Sector 17.
Talking family She doesn't mince words, speaks her mind on every question put to her but at the same time is not opinionated. And she still gets flooded with compliments for her looks, style and personality from men! "That is how our society is changing, where a woman who has two children isn't considered a dead body walking around. But there is still a lot that needs to change. It is women who corrupt men; treat their sons as princes, who when grow up do not consider their wives as equals." Sparkling effect On her annual trip to Chandigarh, she brings jewellery that is sheer work of brilliance. Besides diamonds, there is ample use of colourful stones-emeralds, rubies, yellow diamonds and sapphires. "I come here at least once a year because I have loyal clients here, who love my creations." Yellow diamonds are a new entry in her collection. Against the popular notion, her jewellery is not exorbitantly priced and is pretty competitive. "People think my pieces are much costlier than what is available in the market only because my name is attached to it." Up next Besides her very successful jewellery business, she is now all set to open a finishing school in Mumbai, which gradually will have its branches all over India. Part of the syllabus will be image consultation, make-over, etiquettes et al. As for who is in the dire need of grooming, she asserts, "It's men definitely. They think grooming is a womanly thing and something that challenges their masculinity, but the fact is that since women are taught the rules of fine living from an early age, they fare better." Queniee is now also a proud owner of a double-storey jewellery store in Mumbai. She has a window at Dorchester Hotel and Jumeirah Carlton Hotel, five-star properties in London. "It's a misconception that only Indian women love jewellery. Abroad, women are as crazy about jewellery; I have clients who are from the Gulf, Russia and even Europe. Personal note While she swears by French and Italian labels, in India she loves to try creations by the Gen Next designers. "When they make a debut at a fashion week, they bring in freshness in their designs. But after a season, you can sense their commercial limitations; hence they make what will sell." She usually carries a Hermes bag but that doesn't make her a label-freak. "As for Indian designers, she likes creations by Rohit Bal, Tarun Tahiliani and Monisha Jaisingh. ashima@tribunemail.com
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Fine focus
Brand ambassadors seldom practice what they preach but when it is a cause that they are preaching, all that takes over is their endeavour to be associated with it. Singer Harf Cheema and actor Sameeksha Singh, in Chandigarh for the website launch of Beauty and Brains Welfare Trust, admit to not being tech savvy at all. While you might still find Sameeksha online, “googling on health and nutrition”, Harf Cheema couldn’t be more oblivious of technology. “Earlier I used to spend time on Facebook, be socially active but now I choose to concentrate on work,” he shares. With work on his mind, what takes most of the time of his day is the upcoming album. “It is titled Harf and has ten songs that have been sung and composed by me.” He adds, “I have roped-in as many as five music directors.” The soon-to-be-out album comprises tracks aimed at appealing to everyone. “It has all kinds of songs. You’ll find sad numbers, romantic songs and even dance tracks.” However, what personally appeals to him are the legends of Punjabi music industry like, “Gurdaas Maan and Kuldeep Manak. Gurdaas Maan gives some of the fabulous live performances. You have to see him to believe him. I personally love doing live shows because of the instant energy and feedback from the crowds.” He adds, “Among today’s generation of singers, I quite like Sharry Mann.” Hands full Despite a kitty full of movies, she makes it a point to take time out for the right things. “I am not really a tech-savvy girl but I do like to spend my free time on the Internet, googling on diet and nutrition.” This while it was taking time out for a charitable organisation dedicated for the empowerment of women and orphans — a “cause she believes in.” Besides a couple of more: “There is also lack of awareness among farmers and people; for example the incessant use of pesticides on the crops, much higher than permissible limits.” Apart from the Hindi film that goes on floors next month, there’s upcoming Kirpan and Fateh. “Fateh is a romantic action film where even the girl gets to perform some real stunts. I specially learnt martial arts for the film.” manpriya@tribunemail.com
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NET worthy
Kenny Shin, CEO, Star CJ Alive says, “Our probe reveals that despite the size being not big, affluence of those residing here makes Chandigarh a big market.” The channel has enjoyed a good response in four years of its launch. “Any item available in a mall, we have it all here,” says Mahesh Patel, from marketing division of Star CJ Alive. A-category brands right from Samsung in electronics to Satya Paul in sarees have made win credibility. What works to their credit is a unique range of products, great combo deals and price offers that are hard to find anywhere else online or offline. Get ready to buy cars, insurance and even homes next. They already do that in China and Korea! So a goodbye to traffic snarls and welcome to shopping from the comfort of your home. What say?
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Don’t sleep over it!
Prolonged sleep deprivation increases the risk of heart diseases, stroke, diabetes and obesity Dr Aditya Rattan Sleep is a restorative and renewal process for the body. A good night’s sleep is essential for the mood, motivation, memory, immunity, metabolism et al. The recommended sleep is 7-8 hours per night.
The struggle of work/life balance forces young professionals to trade-in their precious sleep time. Distracting factors like excessive use of gadgets also disturb sleep. Financial worries, longer working hours and availability of 24X7 TV channels further aggravate this problem. Active social life and late night parties disturb the sleep cycle and rhythm. Last but not the least uncomfortable beddings; clutter/noise/lighting in the bedroom can also affect the sleep cycle. What can be done: An afternoon nap can help in recovering from the bad effects of inadequate sleep. Such a ‘recovery sleep’ is important. Catching up on sleep during the weekend can be a good idea for busy professionals. Some of the big achievers like Albert Einstein, Margaret Thatcher and Bill Clinton had a firm belief in the afternoon ‘power nap’, a term coined by Winston Churchill. Tips for healthy sleep
* Use the bed and bedroom for sleep only. * Avoid electronic gadgets/ TV close to bedtime. *
Establish a regular bedtime routine and a regular sleep-wake schedule. *
Do not eat or drink too close to bedtime. * Create a sleep-promoting environment that is dark and comfortable. *
Avoid disturbing noises. * Consume less or no caffeine, particularly late in the day. *
Don’t exercise within three hours before bedtime. Developing and maintaining a healthy sleep cycle is the only way to overcome the effects of lack of sleep. (Dr Rattan is a Panchkula-based consultant cardiologist)
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Zareen gets candid
Comedy and romance I enjoy both the genres. With comedy, you have to be impromptu and need comic timing. With romance, you have to convince the audience that you are madly in love with the actor who may be a complete stranger to you. Creating magical moments can be quite awkward but that’s our job as an actor. Changes galore The industry is opening up to newcomers and directors are willing to take risks. When I made my debut, this wasn’t the case. People were not ready to experiment, one had to convince them about their ability. Right lessons One thing I have learnt is that one may have all the right connections, but you have to work hard to be a good actor. It’s the only thing that will get you through. You may be pretty and have a bunch of contacts but that will just get you your first break. If you cannot convince people of your talent then no one is interested in giving you a second look. A film is a huge investment and people will only invest in you if they think you have it in you. Fitness first We have erratic schedules that leave us with little time or energy for workouts. But the irony of the situation is that our profession demands us to look good all the time. Once I started working out, I became a regular at the gym. That commitment made a difference. I love my body now. I try doing different things. I switch between cardio, boot camp, dancing, weight-training and yoga. I am constantly challenging my body. Language barriers There isn’t much difference between Bollywood and other film industries. The toughest part is to get the language right. Apart from that, the craft and the passion is the same. In November, I will start shooting for my Punjabi debut film with Gippy
Grewal.
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Meghna’s negative mode
How different will your role in Gustakh Dil be from the character of Ammaji? My character Barkha in Gustakh Dil is opposite to that of Ammaji as she was traditional, while Barkha is today's woman who knows her position in society and is very dominating. She is scared of losing her family, which makes her rigid in many ways. Are you playing a negative role once again? Well, I would like to do other kind of roles as well. I also ensure that the roles I do have more than just a few qualities; they are complex and have multiple shades. So after Ammaji what kind of roles did you want? I wanted a role where I could give my best as an actor. If the role is not layered enough, it falls flat and there's no fun or challenge playing it. I am thankful to be getting roles with multiple shades and of all ages. You took a huge gap. What kept you away from serials? Yes. It's been almost a year I think but this break wasn't planned. After Laado I got offers, but nothing was interesting so I waited for a better role. I was busy too as I had fractured my hand, went to the interiors of Haryana to create awareness about education and then there was Jhalak. Now, this show interested me and I am also looking at some movie offers. Is there any kind of character you would like to play? I am hoping for a role that offers me something drastically different from my image. As for films, I am looking for layered roles that have a wider scope. — HRM
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Parting ways
It’s over: Avinash Sachdev
After her show Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hai ended, Krytle Dsouza seems to have been roped-in for season two of Sanskaar - Dharohar Apnon Ki. She will play a new character as Kishan's wife Bhoomi will soon die. The role was played by Shamim Mannan, who was later replaced by Kadambari
Kadam. Busy again: Krystle Dsouza
Happy to be lucky Diya Aur Bati Hum is one popular show in which every actor wants to work. Recently Harshali Zine, whom we have seen in shows like Do Hanso Ka Joda and Hitler Didi in the past, was seen in a cameo role of Tanvi. We called up Harshali to ask her about Anas and she admitted she has a huge crush on him.
Sneha Wagh of Star Plus' Veera fame recently celebrated her birthday. Although she claims she doesn't like the hoopla on her birthday, the cast and crew of her show got cakes for her, which surprised her a lot and even made it special. B’DAY GIRL: Sneha Wagh
After much confusion, names being dropped and auditioning several actresses, producer Ekta Kapoor has finally got her new Pihu for Bade Achhe Lagte Hain. After Fenil Umrigar's exit, buzz was that Akshita Kapoor would replace her but now it is confirmed that Sonia Balani of Suvreen Guggal - Topper of The Year fame will play the daughter of Ram and Priya
Kapoor.
Actor John Abraham enjoys promoting his films on TV reality shows, but says he will never be a host on television. He is only interested in films for now and hasn't given television any thought although he admits that the reach of TV is much larger than films. On track: John Abraham
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The game is over
Why did you take part in Bigg Boss? I joined the show to make some new friends and face some new challenges in life. Mainly it was for a change. I wanted to do something different. Who were your friends in the house? I found a friend in Tanisha and after spending weeks with them, I also got to enjoy both heaven and hell with the contestants. How did it feel to exit the house? Bigg Boss has been a great experience and I really enjoyed staying in the house. I wanted to test myself but I don't think that I can ever be politically correct or manipulative. I have made some great friends here like Tanisha and that is what I am taking back home. Who do you dislike in the house? Gauahar and Sangram are pretentious. They have not presented their real self to the world.
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Glare-ing details
Describe your sense of style … Feeling comfortable and trendy in whatever I wear is the primary objective to dressing up. Keeping up with the latest fashion trends also helps in evolving one’s style. Latest addition in the wardrobe… There are two actually— a Gucci belt and a Superdry shirt. Brand freak or street smart? I’m an absolute brand freak. Branded stuff really helps boost my confidence. Choose one--sporty, glamorous or chic? I would any day choose a glamorous look. Your style icon… I quite like Honey Singh’s sense of dressing and his style. At times, he is classy and he is glamorous! Who’s the worst dressed celebrity around? I can’t think of any at the moment. I guess everyone has their own sense of style. One fashion trend you don’t understand… Guys wearing absolutely skin-tight jeans. It doesn’t flatter our shape and doesn’t look masculine. Moreover, neither do they look good nor are they comfortable. Your take on accessories... A person can’t be completely dressed without accessories. A nice watch and glares are must wear accessories for me. One thing that boosts your confidence? When you are feeling good about yourself and know that you’ve dressed appropriately for the occasion. Getting compliments about how I look further boosts my confidence to a great extent. You would love to be dressed up by…. Giorgio Armani for sure. He's simply the best designer we’ve had. (As told to Manpriya Singh)
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The year ahead
If your birthday is October 10...
The Sun makes you sovereign, intelligent, honest, imaginative and simple. Frequent travels are expected. You should not be carried away with the promises made by people as they can prove futile. It's difficult to make changes in your life right now. Be a self-starter in 2014. Hesitation can make you miss a magnificent opportunity. As for promotions at work, the opposition that you face will be very strong and organised. However, sometimes different viewpoints can spice things up. Positive colours: Golden, Red, Brown, White, Orange, Maroon
You share your birthday with famous Bollywood actress Rekha (Bhanurekha Ganesan October 10, 1954). Her portrayal of a classical courtesan in Umrao Jaan won her the National Film Award. Rekha has acted in over 190 films. Her strong Jupiter can lead to many accolades and
honours.
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Astro Turf
ARIES: You will be focused and alert. Working with colleagues and gaining their support will lead to faster progress on assignments. Don't make impulsive decisions regarding your finances.
Tarot message: Don't accept situations you dislike. TAURUS: You're not undecided, just trying to understand what others around you are thinking so that you can plan ahead. Avoid new debt or excess spending. Minor muscle-aches can bother you. Tarot message: Take things one at a time instead of multi-pronged attacks. GEMINI: Kick old habits and adopt a healthier lifestyle with more time for meditation and relaxation. Today you will be quite amazed to find yourself taking on a more ambitious role. Tarot message: Watch your actions at work and polish your public relation skills. Lucky colour: Mauve. CANCER: You are likely to find an ideal partner. Be bold to speak out what is in your mind. Delays can be expected today. Relax; things will clear up and you will find that they are progressing well by the evening. Tarot message: Beware of depleting your energy or resources on others. LEO: You will be able to enjoy interaction with people who share your views and thoughts. Your ability to communicate effectively will help you enhance your reputation. Trust your intuition. Tarot message: Arrogance will not be rewarded. VIRGO: You find ways to express your creativity and emotion. Your personal interests are likely to be stagnant. This should be a pleasantly sociable day. A Taurean person supports you through a difficult time. Tarot message: At work, a setback will be followed by rapid advance. LIBRA: Today a long-cherished dream can come true. Be understanding and keep in mind the likes and dislikes of your mate. A surprise phone call can put you back in touch with a long-lost friend.
Tarot message: Do not refuse offers without seeking advice. SCORPIO: Youngsters should be capable of entertaining themselves and they will be happiest left to their own pleasures. Complicated family issues or repeated social patterns require consideration. Tarot message: A dissatisfactory phase will need gentle handling. SAGITTARIUS: A new business venture is on the cards. Minor jealousies are best addressed in the moment. Tonight, plan creative distractions or group events. Tensions will be easily forgotten. Tarot message: Feel free to
change your mind. CAPRICORN: A close friend needs advice concerning strained relationships. Past disappointments and old memories will now provide valuable social wisdom. Tarot message: If you insist on leading a fast life, you can aggravate your problems. AQUARIUS: This is a good time for shared enjoyment with family. Tonight, review financial records for forgotten payments. Avoid acting as a mediator and wait for obvious cues from loved ones. Beware of over-indulgence in food. Tarot message: Trust your heart and intuition. PISCES: Expect loved ones to propose new forms of entertainment or ask for greater involvement in your daily life. This is an excellent time to adopt new routines, foster friendships or develop unique hobbies. Tarot message: Do not get tied down by any promises. Lucky colour: Orange. Lucky number: 46
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Shopping is what Chandigarh folks love. What’s more, home shopping is popular in this region too! A survey conducted by Star CJ Alive, India’s largest home shopping channel, puts Chandigarh as one of the largest market for home shopping in India. Mobiles top the list along with other big ticket items; LCDs, dinner sets, and surprisingly sarees!
Shortened sleep duration is defined as less than six hours of sleep and is associated with a number of physical as well and emotional disturbances. A new lifestyle disorder — chronic sleep deprivation is on the rise, especially in the metropolitan cities. Prolonged sleep deprivation increases the risk of suffering from heart diseases, stroke and other conditions such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes and obesity. Researchers describe the trend of late nights and early mornings as a ticking time bomb. People deprived of sleep have been found to perform badly in tests of driving ability and hand-eye coordination. Lack of sleep impacts the balance of hormones in the body and sleep deprivation affects alertness, concentration as well as memory. 
She made her debut opposite Salman Khan in Veer and even gained weight for the same but life has not been easy for Zareen Khan. She sparkled for a while with the Character Dheela song from Ready. She talks about surviving in the industry, learning how to act and much more.
After the powerful role of Ammaji in Naa Aana Is Des Meri Laado, Meghna Malik tried her hand at dancing in Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa. Now she is back on telly with another negative role. She talks about it and the roles she wants to play.
Buzz is that love birds Avinash Sachdev and Rubina Dilaik, who met and fell in love on the sets of Chhoti Bahu, have called off their relationship. The couple were having issues since a while and Rubina even went on holidays alone, which sparked-off further rumours. Their family is apparently trying to sort things out.
Role call 
Celebration time
Pihu finally there!
No telly for John
After staying in the house for three weeks, Anita Advani bid farewell to the Bigg Boss house and its contestants. Her exit not only came as shock for her but also for the other inmates, especially Tanisha and Armaan, who were fond of her. Anita talks about this experience.
Every person has a sense of style in his own right. Yet, there are only a few who’d attract the second glances, who have the power to make the camera go zoom on them. It could be the tousled hair or it could be torn jeans. Our this week’s face in the crowd Karanveer
Arora, 17, believes in flaunting his style.
Gems Recommended: Ruby, Yellow Sapphire, Rose Quart