On the first stage
The Ramlila is as old as tradition itself. And well-known actors, including Pran, Ravi Kissen, Mukesh Gautam and Sonu Sood, have once performed on this grand stage in their life… 
Jasmine Singh

Not many would know that legendary actor Pran played the role of Sita at a local staging of Ramlila. Bhojpuri super-star and Bollywood actor Ravi Kissen also played the role of Sita at local Ramlilas. Also the macho man of Bollywood from Punjab, Sonu Sood, made his first public appearance at the Ramlila in Moga!

All the hi-tech additions have definitely changed the face of Ramlila, but if you were to speak to the old, seasoned actors or theatre artists, they all share how most of them have slipped into those loud costumes, raised their sound to extreme decibels, looked at hints to remember the lines, smiled and even taken the liberty to wave at the audiences that had come to see them act in Ramlila. So much so that it is at the local level Ramlilas that many actors have actually started their career! We check out.

Bhojpuri blast
Ravi Kissen

He is the superstar of Bhojpuri cinema and he has done substantial roles in Bollywood as well; bring up the word Ramlila and the actor can't help going back in time. "I have literally started my acting career by playing Sita in Ramlila. I would invariably request the director to make me Sita because I wanted to understand women and especially the plight of Sita," he says. The actor definitely feels that much has changed in Ramlila these days. "It has become more state-of-the-art, but nevertheless it is still the ideal platform to act." 

Right act
Ashu Sharma & Vinod Sharma

If Ashu has done quite a bit of Bollywood films, Vinod is still popular in the theatre circuit and Punjabi films. Both had their first acting stint with Ramlila. Ashu played Hanuman and Vinod was part of the 'vanar sena'. Adds Vinod, "Performing whatever little role you are given in front of a swelling crowd is something big. It was in one of the acts in Ramlila that I realised I could raise my voice; I could gesticulate and yes I realised I could act."

Sing along
RJ Pankaj

He can make you laugh at the drop of a hat; his spontaneity has made him the most sought-after RJ. He started his singing career by performing at the Ramlila. "I sang Kya Hua Tera Wada and I still remember that I got a small token of appreciation for it, which I have kept with me till date," he shares. Pankaj did a lot of debates and gave singing performances during those short breaks in Ramlilas. "I would desperately wait for the Vanwas scene because the curtains would fall and I would get a chance to perform in the break." 

Building confidence
Mukesh Gautam

He is a known theatre artist, actor and director. Mukesh Gautam had not known that playing Ram at a local Ramlila would be such a confidence-building exercise and also allow him to see the actor in him. "Professional theatre is totally different from acting in Ramlila, of course, at the same time I think it was that role on stage, in front of so many people, that helped me to come out of my shell. Playing Ram was a prestigious thing then, which meant I had to put whatever I thought about acting on to the stage." 

Early start
Gabbar

He is the brain behind The Theatre Army; Gabbar, alumni of the department of theatre, made his first stage appearance in Ramlila. "As kids, we would first go around collecting money and then organising the Ramlila. I would direct and also act. In due course of time it became so popular that a local politician also paid a visit. However, the best part was that my father would be directing Ramlila in the opposite ground, so I was competiting with him," he smiles. Till date his village organises the Ramlila with much grandeur, the way he and his kid friends had started years back.

Old charm
Parvesh Sethi, vice-chairman, Chandigarh Sangeet Natak Akademi

He played the role of Hanuman for a long time in the Ramlila. Parvesh Sethi started acting in Ramlila during the 70s. "Those days the Ramlila actors were a dedicated lot and the audience religious, which is missing these days."

Parvesh Sethi looks at Ramlila as a form of Parsi theatre. "Like Parsi theatre it involves loud gestures, loud costumes and make-up; this is one of the best stages to build confidence." 

Macho man
Sonu Sood

The actor made a macho statement in Dabangg; he flexes his muscles again for his upcoming role in Rambo Rajkumar. The one role that he clearly remembers till date is, "That of Laxman, which I played at a Ramlila in Moga, Punjab. The whole idea of wearing those bright costumes, going on stage and acting in front of my home crowd gave me 'I-am-the-star' feeling. Besides, I know it also gave my confidence a boost," he says.

jasmine@tribunemail.com

American flavour, Indian twist
Mona

Salads, subs, seekhs, sammies and pizzas —Quiznos is now open in 11 to take care of your food cravings! An American sub chain with as many as 18 outlets in India, Quiznos offers a variety of international favourites and Indian flavours as well.

Having got a rousing response for their first outlet at Aroma-22, this new place offers a wider menu. So those on diet can go for healthy salads. There are fast food, manchurians and pizzas and there are seekhs for those in love with Indian and others can choose options from soups, sammies and more!

Right on the geri route, this quick service restaurant has seating for 18 and a trained staff to dole out delicacies. There is Italian veggie, zesty grille hara bhara, tandoori chicken in subs; choice of veg Hawaiian, smoke chicken breast and more in salads, Punjabi chicken seekh, spicy angry seekh and Manhattan lemon seekh in steamed, healthy seekhs; from plain cheese to chicken chipotle in pizzas.

The best part-they have sub of the day offering both for veg and non-veg everyday. Even better, the food is priced very competitively. A nine inch pizza starts for Rs 125, sub of the day is priced at Rs 90 for veg and Rs 110 for non-veg, multi-grain sammi is for Rs 50 plus taxes.

"With 60 per cent of India's population below 30 years of age, the young India is demanding a wide variety of food options. Our aim is to bring them best quality food at affordable prices," says Jagjot Pangli, CEO, Terroni Foods.

They are looking forward to aggressively expand in the region. "The response we got at Aroma was so positive that here we are with our second outlet," says Jagjot who also has plans to start home delivery by next month.

mona@tribunemail.com

itsy bitsy
Tragedy averted

A regular day's shoot turned into a painful one for Chandni Bhagwanani, who plays the lead in the show Amita Ka Amit. On Monday, the actress was walking around the sets while talking on her phone when she tripped over some wires.

One of the set lights fell on her and she blacked out for a few minutes. The crew then had to rush her to hospital. "The doctor examined me and said I had some internal swelling but it wasn't serious and that I would recover soon," she said.

Dayashankar to enter Veera

Since the time it began, Star Plus' Veer Ki Ardaas-Veera has gripped the audiences with the touching tale of a brother and sister. The makers are leaving no stone unturned to ensure that this heartfelt story continues to add twists and keep the viewers hooked on to the show. The latest is the introduction of veteran film and theatre actor Dayashankar Pandey who was seen in films like Lagaan, Gangaajal, Swades and Rajneeti.

Dayashakar will be seen playing Surjit Singh, a strong character that will bring in a lot of drama and create an upheaval in Ratan's life. Surjit Singh has a motive behind his every move and will go to any extent to ensure he is successful in seeking his desired result. — HRM

gyan zone
Natural choice
Retired banker-turned artist Hemant Malhotra draws inspiration from nature 
Ashima Batish

His first painting is strictly meant for display. It has developed cracks after surviving for 35 years, but artist Hemant Malhotra is still not ready to part with it. Not that it is art at its best but the sentimental value attached to it overshadows the little commercial value it holds.

"I pulled down the curtain of my hostel room in Panjab University to use it as canvas," says Hemant Malhota, who put up his exhibition of works at Punjab Kala Bhawan.

A retired banker, his works can be primarily divided into two segments-when art was a mere hobby and now when it is a profession for him. "I started with making figurative art, all inspired by nature. Birds, flowers, trees became my subjects. But after so many years, now when I revisited my works, I developed a flair for the abstract genre." The source of inspiration, however, remains the same. His series of three artworks on trees in green, orange and golden depicting spring, winter and autumn is a treat to eyes. "The basic objective of art should be to please our eyes. I pick bright colours for the same purpose."

His medium is acrylic and oil on canvas but in-between one also finds the use of other material. For a painting titled, Bronze Man, he has drawn the abstract figure of a man using metal pipes. "I don't wish to restrict my art to certain material. I prefer being flexible, pick material that can give shape to my thoughts." Travelling across India has also helped me pick subjects for his work. "For example, I visited the dense rain forests ahead of Kullu. I painted it with green oil colours and it came out so beautifully. For an artist, there isn't a better inspiration than nature, ," says Hemant. And his painting substantiate that well.

(On till October 13) 

the ‘in’ side
Bring Morocco home 
Sukhmani

mix and match: Moroccan decor is all about east and west fusion

Morocco's rich culture is reflected in its alluring interior design style, characterised by vibrant colours and exquisite furnishings. If you're looking to bring an exotic yet elegant feel to your home, you should consider the elegantly mysterious elements found in Moroccan style décor. From vibrant colours to intricately designed wood and mosaic products, this luxurious, dramatic, and exciting style is becoming increasingly popular in modern homes.

Morocco is like a crossroads between the east and west, north and south; Moroccan décor blends styles from France, Portugal and Spain from the northwest, with strong Mediterranean, African, Persian, and Islamic influences from the south and east. This results in a unique and inspirational style specific to Morocco.

Use of bold colours: Colours found in Moroccan interiors are often bright and warm, reflecting the climate and landscape in which they are found. Vibrant tangerine, sunshine yellow, exotic fuchsia, deep red, rich purple and brilliant turquoise. Alongside a cooler palette of brilliant white, cool metallic and dark wood. Blue is a prevalent colour in Moroccan interiors, evocative of the adjacent Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean. Shades of gold and yellow, found in the surrounding desert, are also frequently used. Rich reds and oranges that conjure images of African sunsets are the main highlighting colours.

Furniture: Morocco's distinctive furniture is known for its unparalleled artisanship and attention to detail. Sofas and tables are inviting and set low to the ground. You will often find elaborate wrought iron scroll work, mother of pearl inlay, ornately carved wood, richly hued upholstery, and intricate mosaic or terra cotta tile details in Moroccan furniture.

Lighting: Moroccan decor stresses on dim lighting created by lamps and pendants made from coloured glass cut metal and carved wood. I absolutely adore the Moroccan lanterns! Using candles in traditional lamps will add the romantic element of moving light to your décor.

Mirrors: Mirrors enhance the ambiance of a Moroccan interior by subtly reflecting light and adding adornment to walls. Look for mirrors with decorative wrought iron work, deeply carved wood, onion dome-shaped frames, and metal or jewel embellishments.

Fabrics: Fabrics are rich in colours with intricate textures and designs. Moroccan style is full of vivid patterns. A variety of tessellating shapes can be seen, often reflecting the architecture it's contained within. They use throw pillows and cushions in abundance and drape fabrics from furniture, window frames and even the ceilings. Mosquito netting over beds adds a mysterious touch, reminiscent of desert tents.

Mosaics: Intricate tile work is a hallmark feature of Moroccan design, found everywhere from floors to walls to tabletops. Traditional Moroccan tiling, consists of numerous small tiles grouped together to form vibrant geometric patterns. For an exotic touch, try installing Moroccan-inspired tile as a kitchen backsplash or across an entire floor to make a dramatic statement

Flooring: Floors of dark hardwood are covered with plush Persian rugs and stacked floor cushions to create the perfect base for a Moroccan style room. Ceramic tile is often used for flooring and gives a coolness much welcomed in the hot weather.

Plants: Moroccan décor is incomplete without small and large house plants and flowers. Placed in large, colourful pots or baskets, exotic plants such as banana trees or papyrus help to create an oasis-like feel in a Moroccan style home.

While traditional Moroccan interiors are often extravagant and full of intricate detail, modern interpretations of Moroccan classics are a great fit for contemporary homes.

(Sukhmani is a Chandigarh-based interior and landscape designer)

star track
Freida's fantasy

Freida Pinto is one of the most prominent Indian faces in Hollywood and she has come a long way since Slumdog Millionaire four years ago. She talks about fashion and Hollywood.

Favourite director

I am being biased but for me it has to be Danny Boyle...I owe everything to him and Slumdog Millionaire. I am here today because of him.

Fan-girl moment

Usually I am composed on the red carpet or wherever else. But meeting Leonardo DiCaprio for the first time was my big fan-girl moment.

Go-to designers

If I have an emergency or need to be rescued fashion-wise, I know that Burberry and Chanel will bail me out and it is an Indian designer, then Rohit and Rahul as they have always come to my rescue.

Hollywood after-parties

They are a lot of fun, they have great cocktails and fun music and there are a great bunch of people who get together over there. They are wild like any other parties and I am sure the Bollywood parties are wilder.

At the Oscars

If I am nominated ever for an Oscar, then I want my mother, father and sister to be sitting next to me. If I am just attending it, then I want to be sitting next to Jack Nicholson.

Out of range

Owning and maintaining a luxury car isn't an easy task and actor Salman Khan has learnt it hard way.

The 47-year-old actor took to Twitter to vent out against the makers of Range Rover as his car recently broke down.

"Meri bichari Range Rover ke hal kharab hai in last 1&1/2 yrs 9times brakepads hv failed 1bari pura suspension gaya or kal gadi he baith gayi. The company guys say its a heavy car so the break pads vil wear off hehehe toh bus truck aur train n planes ka rose badalte hongay kya. so kinda pissed with the attitude of the people at Range Rover they hv no concept of customer service," he tweeted.

"Kal raat ko jab gadi bandh padi had to take a rick home, really enjoyed the rickshaw ride : )" he added.

His sister Arpita Khan also slammed the luxury car brand and wrote: "Range Rover is supposed to be one of the best Suv's in the world but we disagree, Bhais car has been giving us so many issues. And the company has the most stupid explanation for why it keeps breaking down."

Commercial approach

Anushka Sharma danced for 12 or 13 hours in high heels for a commercial even though she had a sore ankle. She is a thorough professional and looks fabulous in the commercial.

Proud moments

Sohum Shah is very pleased and proud to be associated with Ship of Theseus because he has got appreciation from all quarters and he feels his grandchildren will be proud of him when they watch the movie.

Big Boss over films

While many, who agree to get locked up as inmates in the Big Boss house, hope for it to lead to work, Tanishaa Mukerji is one of the few who had to postpone her commitments due to the reality show.

Our source informs us, "Tanishaa was lucky that her commitments were not immediate. The second schedule of her Marathi film is pending and as soon as she comes out of the house, the film will complete its shooting schedules.

On the other hand, her play, The Verdict, is also supposed to travel internationally once she is back."

The source adds, "While nobody knew the reason earlier, the producers of both her film and play were extremely supportive in reworking her dates.

Tanishaa was also working on her second project as producer and had started her research as well for it."

Sunny becomes Bheem

Mahabharat, the first ever animated film made on the holy scripture, will have voice overs by big names from the film industry. the news is that Sunny Deol will be playing the role of Bheem in the animated film of Mahabharat.

Moreover, Sunny Deol feels that his animated character should also have biceps as huge as his own which is a 21 cm. This will only make the character look a lot similar to Sunny Deol in real life. A lot of Sunny’s attributes and mannerism's have also been added to this animated character to make sure that it appears precisely like Sunny.

Jayanti Lal Gada, producer of Mahabharat in animation format, says ''We are designing all our characters close to the real personality. Sunny is known for his biceps. So, we wanted Bheem to have the same dimensions.''

Kangna gets her place

Kangna Ranaut has bought an entire floor at a high-rise building in Bandra and has grand plans for her new pad. She currently shares an apartment with her parents in another area of suburban Mumbai.

Two much of jasoosi

Ranbir Kapoor wants to avoid a clash with Vidya Balan. His film is titled Jagga Jasoos and her film is titled Bobby Jasoos. Both films will release next year.

Back to Raj

Farhan Akhtar likes watching black and white movies. He has a huge collection of those and is a big fan of Raj Kapoor's movies...he loves his style of story-telling and the music in the movies.

Off to New York

Ranbir Kapoor has gone away to New York with his gal pal Katrina Kaif and best friend Ayan Mukerji (who is already there).

So he has escaped the Besharam backlash. He plans to buy an apartment there as he keeps going there often.

chatter box
Food for thought

Fox Traveller is now taking food reality to a whole new level. With the launch of their latest international show — The Taste — Fox Traveller is teaming up, for the first-time ever, with internationally acclaimed culinary geniuses — Anthony Bourdain, Nigella Lawson, Brian Malarkey and Ludo Lefebvre, who will get down to what truly matters, the way the food tastes!

Just one spoon is all that the judges get to make a decision. There are no second helpings and no second chances. And what makes it even more unique is that the one chance is also blindfolded. So, there is no margin for error.

Talking about India and the show's concept Anthony Bourdain said, "At the end of it, all you need is a spoonful to realise whether you are in love with a dish or not. And this is exactly what we did on The Taste." Sharing his delightful experience of working with Nigella Lawson, Anthony added, "Nigella is full of surprises. She's really kind but can be brutal at the same time and a couple of times she has been pretty unforgiving on the show."

Sharing her experience Nigella Lawson said, "The whole concept of the show is really new and thrilling. I love the fact that the show truly celebrates taste, after all it's all about the taste!" She added, "I am a home cook and I feel it's necessary to champion their cause as it is home cooking that keeps the human race alive."

The Taste will air every Friday at 9 pm starting October 18, 2013, only on FOX Traveller.

Let the fun begin!

Television actor Harsh Vashishth, who was seen in Veera, now will be seen in the upcoming family comedy on Disney Channel India, Oye Jassie. Having appeared on television in various avatars, Harsh will now be seen as a successful star director, Rahul Malhotra, in Oye Jassie.

He plays a father to four naughty yet delightful kids Ayesha, Rocky, Subu and Tia, who keep the atmosphere in the Malhotra household filled with fun. 

Dayashankar to enter Veera

Since the time it began, Star Plus' Veer Ki Ardaas-Veera has gripped the audiences with the touching tale of a brother and sister. The makers are leaving no stone unturned to ensure that this heartfelt story continues to add twists and keep the viewers hooked on to the show. The latest is the introduction of veteran film and theatre actor Dayashankar Pandey who was seen in films like Lagaan, Gangaajal, Swades and Rajneeti.

Dayashakar will be seen playing Surjit Singh, a strong character that will bring in a lot of drama and create an upheaval in Ratan's life. Surjit Singh has a motive behind his every move and will go to any extent to ensure he is successful in seeking his desired result. Surjit Singh's character is very promising with many layers.

Tragedy averted

A regular day's shoot turned into a painful one for Chandni Bhagwanani, who plays the lead in the show Amita Ka Amit. On Monday, the actress was on a break between shoot and walking around the sets while talking on her phone when she tripped over some wires.

One of the set lights fell on Chandni and the actress blacked out for a few minutes. The crew then had to rush her to hospital. "The doctor examined me and said I had some internal swelling but it wasn't serious and that I would recover soon," said Chandni.

"It was all very sudden, but the crew really helped me. My co-star Nishad panicked and rushed to get an ice-block and some medicines for me". Apart from her little accident, Chandni says she's having a great time on the show and feels blessed that the audience has accepted her in the part. 

New Releases
War Chhod Na Yaar

Producer: AOPL Entertainment Pvt Ltd.,

Director: Faraz Haider

Sharman Joshi plays an Army officer in a message-oriented war comedy War Chhod Na Yaar, which releases today. The film is about a war with the neighbouring country. This one is Sharman's first release post Ferrari Ki Sawari in June 2012. In trade circles it is touted as a war comedy, a first-of-its-kind take on what happens along the Indo-Pak border.

Shot mostly at Pithraser village (Bikaner) near the Indo-Pak border, War Chood Na Yaar has been directed by debutant Faraz Haider. Soha Ali Khan and Javed Jaffery play important characters. 

Baat Ban Gayee

Producer: Megha Aggarwal, Syed Asif Jah

Director: Shuja Ali

Baat Ban Gayee does not use any kind of double meaning jokes to make viewers laugh. The story is funny yet emotional; it is a romantic comedy and a complete family entertainer. The movie stars Ali Fazal, Anisa, Amrita Raichand, Razzak Khan and Akshay Singh. — Dharam Pal

Dream come true

Puja Banerjee aka Parvati of Devon Ka Dev Mahadev is thrilled with her new-found opportunity. She has shot for two videos with actor Govinda for his album titled Gori Tere Naina. Puja Banerjee says, "It was a dream come true for me to shoot music videos with Govindaji who is the great entertainer, a great dancer as also one of my favourite actor. It has been a fantastic experience" 

Astro Turf
p Khurrana

ARIES: There can be several disruptions, which can leave you feeling irritated and on-the-edge. Do not lose temper with loved ones. Spending time with your partner should be a priority today. Tarot message: Use your instinct to get into the top circle of power. Lucky colour: Royal-blue. Lucky number: 27

TAURUS: Joint ventures or a partnership with a close friend has the making of a profitable alliance in the longer run. Your beloved or mate will go all out to make it up to you for past digressions. Tarot message: Plan your life better. Lucky colour: Brown. Lucky number: 40

GEMINI: Whatever plans you have for today are likely to undergo a change whether you like it or not. Minor tensions at home will be overcome with tact and understanding. Tarot message: Settle the past before starting afresh. Lucky colour: Cream. Lucky number: 47

CANCER: Hardwork will certainly get rewarded. Put behind the unpleasant events of the past and look forward to a nice day. Genuine appreciation and understanding will come your way. Tarot message: Lack of confidence or caution can leave you in losses. Lucky colour: Parrot-green. Lucky number: 48

LEO: Meetings and talks will go off very well. Be patient and consider all factors before making a decision. An advance payment will materialise. Tarot message: Listen carefully to words of wisdom even if you do not relish them. Lucky colour: Crimson. Lucky number: 38

VIRGO: Financial gains are assured. Those employed can look forward to a promotion with additional benefits. To maintain peace at home make extra efforts. Tarot message: Restore ties with business people you have been out of touch with. Lucky colour: Deep-red. Lucky number: 28

LIBRA: This is a good time for some kind of a financial gain. A promotion is also likely at work. Spare some extra time at home. An advance payment is also likely to materialise. Tarot message: Make an effort to boost your income. Lucky colour: Off-white. Lucky number: 55

SCORPIO: You will strike a good bargain that will get you immediate benefits. Concentrate on your routine work. Personal relationships are disappointing. Don't let them bother you. Tarot message: Avoid being hurried and over-anxious. Lucky colour: Orange. Lucky number: 46

SAGITTARIUS: Try to remain calm and give your version of the situation. There are times in a relationship when it is wiser to be silent. Take the plunge and implement new plans. Tarot message: Watch your actions at work. Lucky colour: Florescent-green. Lucky number: 45

CAPRICORN: You will be discussing expansion plans but try to resolve disputes amicably. Keep your mind open to ideas. You will be concerned about your beloved who has not been keeping well. Tarot message: Don't be afraid to lend a helping hand to others. Lucky colour: Brown. Lucky number: 41

AQUARIUS: Do not get tied down by any promises, especially regarding money matters. Someone will borrow money and not return it at all. Do not criticise a family member. Tarot message: Try to accomplish long-term tasks. Lucky colour: Violet. Lucky number: 51

PISCES: Be assertive where the situation demands. Stability and inner strength is what you are looking for and you will find Taurean lovers helpful in your journey. Tarot message: Tread familiar ground in your career. Lucky colour: Golden. Lucky number: 30

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is October 11...

The Moon makes you creative, friendly and simple. The year 2014 will be full of good opportunities. The stars will bring useful news and audacious work projects. Problems of ear, nose and throat might arise this year, so you need periodic medical check-ups and take medicines without any negligence. Do not risk money in the stock market or real estate this year. You can plan to build a new house or renovate the old one. Efforts for future will bring results. There will be a good atmosphere at work.

Positive colours: Sea-green, Cream

Select days: Sunday, Monday

Favourable numbers: 1, 2, 4, 7

Gems recommended: Opal, Pearl, Aquamarine

Charity on birthday: Observe a fast; donate milk at any religious place.

You share your birthday with Amitabh Bachchan (October 11, 1942, Allahabad), who needs no introduction. While Mercury has bestowed oration skills, Saturn has made him rich and famous. The 72nd year commencing today will bring more laurels for him and he will reach the zenith of Bollywood.