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Tale of two heroes
With Shaktimaan, Mukesh Khanna, managed to shed the overwhelming image of Bhisham Pitamaha-a feat that his contemporaries from the grand Indian mythology could not achieve. Years later, his association with the role and celebration continues. "It's true that you can't make everybody an actor. Talent has to be inborn but if you have it, there has to be the right guidance to groom it," he shares, while in Chandigarh to open his Shaktimaan Institute of Acting for Film and Television. Shaktimaan always He's probably accustomed to resuming conversations with queries on the fictional character. Especially so, with talks of Shaktimaan making a comeback. "Its popularity is still the same. Wherever I go, while touring the country, children and even grown-ups who have watched the serial, ask me about Shaktimaan and what are we planning to do with it." With already a ready market and a steady stream of viewers, it makes business sense to revive the loveable fictional character. "Shaktimaan was still undone. It's a story between good and bad and even with new character the essence will be the same. The only difference will be that we'll have today's technology blended into it." The details of the sequel are followed by the much expected revelation. He laughs, "Fortunately or unfortunately, I'll only be playing the character. Because nobody was ready to step into my shoes." There is the much needed promise of consistency and continuation. Classic & evergreen Classics cannot be recreated nor their magic repeated. There was one that we saw, know of and remember. After several Mahabharats surfacing on countless channels, only he draws the vivid images of Bhishama Pitamaha. He shares, "The makers of the original Mahabharat indulged in simple story telling with just the right amount of emphasis on costumes and props. Today, if you tattoo Draupadi or dress up characters in Roman inspired attire, then it should only be titled, Kyunki Greek Bhi Hindustani The." At times, sarcasm puts across what criticism can't. "They bring forward faces from daily soaps that fail to convincingly become Kunti or Gandhari or anybody for that matter." He adds, "Those days we had only one channel running it, today there are three hundred. That is also the point." To be noted. Future projects His hiatus from Indian television can almost be mistaken from hibernation. It's an era in the entertainment industry, when come back plans hog just as much of limelight as a debut. "As an actor, I want to do some films now. I have only been into production for the past fifteen to twenty years. People do come asking me to rejoin films or television, that's when you want to reconsider." A couple of projects are in the pipeline and so is the search for the right story. Even a Punjabi film could happen. "I even want to do a Punjabi film. We are selecting the right story." So long! manpriya@tribunemail.com
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Nothing to cry about
Jasmine Singh
Film: Ronde Saare Vyah Pichon Cast: Harish Verma, Neeru Bajwa, Jaswinder Bhalla, Navneet Nishan, Gugu Gill, Rana Ranbir, Rajpal Yadav, Phukraj Bhalla Rating: ** Whether you actually end up crying after marriage or not, you definitely wouldn't lose even one drop of the saline water while watching the Punjabi film RSVP (Ronde Saare Vyah Pichon). You might get emotional, but you wouldn't cry over the money spent on the ticket! Directed by Vijay K Arora, RSVP stars Harish Verma, Neeru Bajwa, Jaswinder Bhalla, Navneet Nishan, Gugu Gill and Phukraj Bhalla. Vijay K Arora opens his innings in the Punjabi film industry with the directorial debut RSVP. Since the story has also been written by him, the director has done justice to the film. Nothing in the film is over the top and nothing is underplayed. RSVP comes with a good concept that has been put together aesthetically. In most Punjabi films, it is the hero, who grabs the centre-stage, but in RSVP, it is the lead actress who pulls all the tricks. Pulling a heroine-centric film is surely applaudable. However, the plot is far too simple to understand. So, you know what will happen next, this doesn't interfere in the movie though. RSVP for the first time brings together the sensitive and versatile actor Harish Verma and the damsel who can make you laugh and cry at the same time, Neeru Bajwa. Both the actors have made for a nice pair, something that you would want to see once again. Harish Verma as Ranbir Singh gets under the skin of the character and lives it up to the hilt. Harish has definitely gone a notch ahead in proving that a non- singer actor can pull off a movie pretty well. Neeru Bajwa has also done justice to her role. The runaway bride has not gone overboard with her expressions. RSVP doesn't fall into a definite genre. It makes you laugh for a reason, and it makes you sad for a reason… There is no sugary romance in the film, but as they say love has no definition. Jaswinder Bhalla thankfully did not go out unleashing his punches. His pairing with Navneet Nishan is entertaining. Pukhraj Bhalla makes his debut with RSVP, and the boy definitely shows promise. If there is one part in the movie that you will enjoy thoroughly is Rajpal Yadav's role as a man from Uttar Pradesh, staying in Punjab. The typical accent mixed with Punjabi is great fun. Rana Ranbir comes in a blink and miss performance. Actor Gugu Gill is splendid to watch, we discover a slightly comic side to him as well. RSVP slows down in the second half dragging it a bit before the climax gives it some momentum. The film has some lovely, hummable tracks that you wouldn't mind playing on your Ipod. Aaibo, Channa Ve are some of the cracking numbers. So you have some good reasons to not to cry vyah pichon.
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An apt advice
Jeeve Jawani is Gurpreet Singh Toor's latest offering to the younger generation in Punjab, which is under the cloud of drug addiction.
Having come across many who have been adversely affected by drug abuse in his career, Toor, AIG Intelligence, Ludhiana, felt this compelling need to share his impressions. The book begins with case studies — it talks about social issues that push youngsters to drugs, crimes caused by unemployment, events like weddings that force families to take loans or sell their land forcing them into penury et al. There are two chapters on women who bear the major brunt of drug abuse, as they have to earn for the entire family. It's not here that the book ends but its last chapters focus on solutions. From participating in games to hooking on to literature to generating sources of income, it focuses on rehabilitation. "Jeeve Jawani is the continuation of my earlier book Sambhalo Punjab," says Toor. While the earlier book talked of drug menace, this one is for the youth," says Toor. The book has been received very well. It's already into its second edition within five months of its publication. Surjit Memorial Sports Association has already booked 500 copies to be distributed amongst the youth at their month-end meet. Toor doesn't want to make tall claims but puts forward his point, "Anyone who reads my book, wouldn't take to drugs." He also believes that crime rate can be cut down drastically if only we can tackle drug menace. "China fought the opium war and got its society drug-free; things are more complicated in our country but there are ways," says Toor whose next book in the series will be on positive stories of people who fought the addiction and made a life worth emulating. "Today's lifestyles push youngsters towards drugs and crime. 'Gymming culture' perpetuates loneliness; way better are games that foster bonding and habits like reading that gainfully occupy the mind." (Published by Chetna Prakashan, the book is available for Rs 100) mona@tribunemail.com
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The world is his stage!
To be or not to be, to do what you love or love what you do, to speak out your mind or remain a detached onlooker and go with the flow!
As a group of young actors engage us in a series of intellectual banter, there comes a male voice from the background—what is more dangerous, the nuclear bomb or Ekta Kapoor? The one-liner warms us up, not just for the humour it contains but also for the familiarity of the voice. This is the voice which has become synonymous with alternative theatre. The voice of Parnab Mukjerjee, the theatre activist! Ekta Kapoor indeed! But, then, there are Ekta Kapoors in theatre too! So how does he propose to sustain the young ones' interest for no-frill, no glam, content-heavy alternative theatre as against the opulent, high-tech plays from the stables of mainstream theatre czars? "Simple. Make theatre a part of the curriculum. Theatre does not come with the tag 'extra-curricular'. If they are studying about nuclear energy then evolve a play based on Hiroshima. Let them question the system while remaining within the system," says the experienced dramatist who has worked with legendary theatre person Badal Sircar for 15 long years and maintained a close association with Punjab's own theatre activist Gursharan Singh. As he wraps up his 50-minute theatre presentation, titled Five Rivers, Five Thoughts, at the newly inaugurated amphitheater of Punjab Public School at Nabha, a play which is a tribute to two prominent signposts—centenary of Tagore's Nobel prize and centenary of Punjab's legendary actor Balraj Sahani, he throws a challenge at the teachers too—why a teacher cannot refer to the morning newspaper to discuss news related to his own subject? "Theatre does not have to be an isolated entity. Theatre can be a debate, it can be a question and it can be the process of finding an answer to that particular question." Going by this logic, a play is only the beginning, not a final product. "We present what we rehearse. And we talk for three hours and rehearse for one hour," he says. Parnab, who is a freelance media analyst, curator, a performance-consultant and director of Best of Kolkata Campus, has proved that a play can be staged anytime, anywhere. He's performed Shakespeare in a rickshaw on a busy street of Delhi and Tagore in an abandoned printing press, 50 feet below the ground. To bring awareness about alternative theatre among children, Parnab will be traveling in and around the region with his core group - 11 students from PPS. He will bring the play to select schools like Vivek High and Strawberry Fields in Chandigarh, too. "I want to take them to Gursharanji"s house. They should see how a house can inspire theatre," he says. Well, that's saying that one can stage a play anywhere but inspiration has to come from a solid source. parbina@tribunemail.com
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Of tea & trousseau
Come October and it's raining lifestyle exhibitions. Some are looked forward to, others just about make a mark, while still some others are gone in a blink and later missed. For an exhibition under one roof, in the heart of Chandigarh, it packed in quite a lot-a handful of designers, a label catering specifically to linen, a tea tasting counter, a jewellery brand. The Posh Bazaar is an endeavour to stick to the philosophy of exclusivity. Shares Nalini Sibal, the curator, "We have been putting up exhibitions for several years now and each time, we try and get labels and designers that haven't exhibited in Chandigarh before." She refers to the tea tasting counter by a tea maker of Indian origin, Tea Of Life. "We Indians are so into tea, especially now with the influx of jasmine tea and Chinese tea. This is just a way of putting, there's something beyond too." Most of the labels came from the Capital, while catering to the city for the first time. Adds Nalini, "There are nine labels showcasing at the exhibition." There's Aarti Talwar from Delhi with colourful ensembles completely in sync with the festive season and wedding wear. She shares, "I started as a hobby about a decade ago and now retail out of three stores and also send across my collections for exhibitions across the country." For a trunk show by the label, the collections were as exquisite as expensive. There's Pintado by Nandini Sawhny a linen range. She shares, "We exclusively deal in linen and our designs are inspired by vintage art and botanical prints." There's also La Stella, the baking company by Kajal Goyal. Yet another corner had a spread of evening wear clutches, making up for any missing
bling.
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Magic of the hand
It's been a season of blending traditional crafts with contemporary silhouettes. Taking off from the legacy of hand-made work and trying to fit it into today's life-a cocktail party, a wedding reception, a summer day out! "We have clubbed chikankari work with zardosi, kundan and tarkashee work and come up with various wearable options,' shares Malik Sunny of Riwaaz Chikan Studio. The couture house from Lucknow and marketing unit of an NGO brings to Chandigarh a collection comprising as many as 400 to 450 pieces, all with a promise of hand-made work.
What the artisans of yore would weave in leisure finds a proud place in the current trends. There's a bridal range that incorporates delicately designed lehengas, heavy sarees, dupattas and heavy anarkalis, all on pure fabrics in white and all of which can be dyed to any colour. "Most of our initial work is done on white and later it is dyed according to the client's requirements." He shares, while pulling out a heavily done lehenga along with a dupatta, "It takes close to two years and five artisans to come up with a complete set. It costs only Rs 35,000, something for which the likes of Manish Malhotra will charge Rs 2 lakh." He adds, "All our work is done by rural workers, primarily women." While all the designing is done in-house, women artisans in and around Lucknow weave the embroidery on to the fabric. Apart from the chikankari, there's mokaish and fardi in stitched and unstitched fabrics on display. Also on exhibit are Anarkalis; dresses, sarees, lehengas, tunics, dupattas. He adds, "Chikankari has always been in but lately we have tried to incorporate it in unusual ways. For example, here is a chikan gown which is perfect as an evening wear." He alludes to the hitherto association of the fabric with daily-wear for summer. While the range starts from Rs 2,500, it goes up to Rs 35,000. Apart from the contemporary cuts and latest patterns, the embroidery has also been blended into paarsi, knot-work and even fabrics like the traditional Benarsi silk saree. (On till October 12 at SCO 70-72, Sector 17D, Chandigarh)
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American flavour, Indian twist
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.
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Breathe life
Simmi Waraich
Narula, Chandigarh See, just like hypertension where the doctor decides what medication is needed, other techniques such as decreasing hostility in one's life, learning yoga, regular exercise are encouraged as these also help in reducing the blood pressure. Similarly, if depression is moderate or severe, medication is required. However, people who learn techniques like vipassana meditation and yoga and exercise regularly they are likely to come out of depression faster than others who take only medication. Basically it is a technique in which a person is made aware of ones body and mind through breathing techniques. For example, if you, for two minutes, practice focusing on your breath--just feeling the air going into your nose and lungs and then exhaling, it has an instant calming effect. One learns to accept the fact that at times, unpleasant thoughts will come and at times one will have neutral or happy thoughts. So one is taught to observe these thoughts without reacting to them, which leads to a break from the past. It is a way of being calm even when there is turmoil in ones life, an acceptance of the fact that at times our mind will take over and make us feel helpless. Regular meditation does lead to long-term changes in the brain. However, if someone has depression, it should be assessed if the person is able to go through the vipassana course and if the person is still severely ill, then medication should not be stopped as the depression may return in a more severe form. So the doctor should be consulted. I know many people who have benefited from the course and also some who have worsened because they stopped their medication. Even the Buddhists themselves have warned that one must be prepared for meditation- the mind must be brought under control slowly and one should not try to reach out for the higher states without proper training. We have heard of over-enthusiastic young men and women literally going out of their minds because they adopted the wrong attitudes towards meditation." For many, the 10-day course may be too exhausting and other ways of dealing with stress may be equally helpful. The thing is to identify what works. How do I control my fears? I started feeling anxious in social gatherings and in closed spaces and constantly feel a heavy sensation. I used to be a carefree person but am no longer so since last four years. I am a 25 year old girl and my family is supportive. Simran, Ludhiana The brain is still being studied by researchers. What is understood so far is that the brain has a rational thinking area which is the prefrontal cortex. It deals with planning, judgment, making evaluations etc. A more primitive part of the brain, the Limbic System deals with emotions. Usually they both work together in harmony but sometimes the emotional brain becomes more active and takes over the rational brain so a person is unable to control irrational fears and anxiety. Often this is due to a chemical imbalance. That is why medication like a mild antidepressant helps to check the chemical imbalance and restorers the harmony. Also, exercise helps to increase feel good chemicals in the body. CBt, ie Cognitive behaviour therapy can be useful but for that a contract has to be signed with the doctor as regular follow up is required for at least 3-4 months twice a week. (Waraich is a Chandigarh-based psychiatrist)
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Yesterday once more…
Divya Dutta
I was running cut to cut for this one, shooting all night for my film Traffic with Manoj Bajpayee and Prosenjit. I had to board an early morning flight to Chandigrh. Groggy and tired I sat in the flight and crashed, only to wake up at Chandigarh landing. As I got to the airport, warm smiles welcomed me. Yes, it’s been different after Bhaag Milkha Bhaag released. There's a special place for me in people’s hearts. Not that there wasn't earlier, but I must admit it has increased now. Warm welcome, people glancing with smiles, I sat in the car to go to Ludhiana where the fashion show was held. The beautiful road, greenery around, Punjabi music in the car, I could feel the warmth and fresh air of Punjab and I realised I so needed it. I decided to absorb each moment. I stopped by at a juice cart on the side of the road. There are many on the road this season. As children we definitely had fresh juice. I picked that moment from childhood and relived it. Same juice, same place, same me! I invited my very dear friends to come for the show. Getting dressed for the fashion show is quite a task and that beautiful royal outfit I wore was stunning but it was difficult to hold its weight. There was still time to walk the ramp, so I called my school friends to meet me in the room. That's the thing with school friends, time doesn't seem to have distanced you! You pick the threads from where you left them. They know you for who you are, who you were and it just brightened my heart and my smile accentuated as I walked the ramp amid the cheering crowd. That love and response was overwhelming, when you get it for looking good instead of your acting prowess. It feels different too, my little bit of anxiety vanished as I saw the cheering crowd and among them people I've known and loved. My own people! I had to fly back early morning to Mumbai to join the shooting. So, again an early morning for me. It was the first day of Navratras. I crossed the temple I visited as a child. I stopped by a minute..same temple, same ritual, same me..I impulsively decided to turn around to my college gate. Just sat there under the tree, same tree I used to study under! I now sat by myself..same place, same me..but the times have changed...and what you hold on to is memories, bonds, which never change. They never will. I sat in my car again, feeling the breeze on my face, memories revisiting me as I crossed the familiar places! Yes, times have changed but it’s the same place of my memories and the same me... (Dutta is a Bollywood actress)
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Natural choice
"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 divided into two segments—when art was a mere hobby and now when it is a profession. "I started with 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. So, I pick bright colours.” His medium is acrylic and oil on canvas but in-between one also finds the use of other material. For a 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 pick material that can give shape to my thoughts." (On till October 13)
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Forgotten fruit
satish narula
In fact, these nutrition-rich fruits were called poor man’s fruits. Now, due to almost no cultivation leading to inhibitive costs these have become a rich man’s fruits. As most of these fruits are grown sporadically in remote areas, the perishable nature of such fruits is also a deterrent for the growers. I am sure, most of the young generation has not even heard about phalsa, another fruit that we used to wait for during summer months.
Mulberry, known by its vernacular name shehtoot, is another fruit now in oblivion. The wild kind of shehtoot, normally referred to as toot was a common sight in villages and even in cities at vacant spaces. Now, the very sight of this tree is a rarity leave alone the vacant spaces. The small fruit was hardly half an inch long whereas the long fruit that came in two colours white (Morus alba) and black (Morus nigra) are about two inches long and very sweet. The fruit is very perishable. The plant is propagated during winter months by cuttings. The tree that puts forth about eight to ten feet long twigs in a season is drastically pruned during the winter when it is dormant. The fruit is available during May-June and is borne on current season growth. The twigs are used to make baskets. The tree is also commercially used to rear silk worms. (To be concluded…) (Narula is a senior PAU horticulturist)
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A layered tale
War Chhod Na Yaar
Thinking cap I like the film. It has a satirical undertone that frames the plot, but it forces one to think. Also, I like the way the film deals with serious matter, that is war, in such a funny way. It's a good attempt by Bollywood. Trishna Sethi, student Must watch The concept of the film is very engaging. In fact, I think this film is the first of a kind. I really like the film and people should go and watch it at least once. Nikhil Sharma, student Little preachy It is a thought provoking film and it offers you intelligent humour, which is hard to find, especially in Bollywood films. However, towards the end, the film begins to fizz out and gets preachy. Nevertheless, I love the last scene, where the soldiers from across the border play antakshari, which is enough to indicate that armies are victims of government policies and wars are just reasons for human loss! Jasveen Kaur, student — As told to Amarjot Kaur
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Porcelain perfect
This is a step forward by the brand to strengthen its presence and bond within the Indian market. The outlet will offer a complete collection of sculptures as well as an extensive range of the Spirit of India Collection, namely as Lithophanes (Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha), Ram Darbar etc. Lladró has associated with Sant Ram Mangat Ram Jain Jewellers, one of the leading and established jewellery houses of Chandigarh; as their official partners to showcase the hand-crafted porcelain sculptures in the city. Says Rajan Jain, director, Sant Ram Mangat Ram Jain Jewellers, "Lladró has created a body of work that embraces 60 years of producing the world's most widely recognised artistic porcelain. We want to give the city residents a taste of legacy, tradition and the artistic marvel with the finest porcelain sculptures in the world.”— TNS
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It’s time to get smarter
The Unibody Elife E6 is powered with a lightning fast 1.5 GHz quad core processor which enables high performance as well as high efficiency at low power consumption. With a stunning 5.0" FHD LTPS screen at 441 PPi with gorilla glass class 3, this piece of art provides excellent screen clarity along with super smooth multi-touch interface with an Android jelly bean v4.2 with Amigo Interface Anil Sharma, managing director, UT electronics Pvt Ltd, said "It gives us immense pleasure to bring the much awaited Elife E6 to Chandigarh. We believe that life as it is very complicated, but your technology used doesn't have to be so and thus we created "Do More with Less". E6 by the virtue of its design, performance and features like guest mode, ignore incoming call without disconnecting call, live weather, motion sensing dialing, are sure to create a new benchmark. The sleek and stylish E6 comes with a sharp and astonishing 13 MP auto focus full HD rear camera made from 2nd generation BSI technology and 5 mega pixel front camera.—TNS
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Burying the hatchet
"Salman shooting on next floor .. meet up and enquire of his nerve ailment ... he is improving !!" he tweeted. "Chatting with Salman about his nerve problem .. he says he is recovering fast .. good !!" he added. Amitabh and Salman were last seen together five years ago in God Tussi Great Ho. They have worked together in films like Baghban and Baabul.
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When Kareena met Anil Kapoor
Star fan: Kareena Kapoor Khan
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Aamir turns alien!
Apparently, Aamir Khan is playing an alien in Rajkumar Hirani's PeeKay. Photos of the actor dressed in bizarre and funny outfits have surfaced thereby leading to the speculation.
Meanwhile, a lot of secrecy is being maintained on the sets of PeeKay. One actor does not know about the character of the other. The unit is filming in Delhi and will move to Rajasthan for the next schedule as the weather and accessibility is better over there.
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Celebrating the bond of LOVE
Kumar reached to his fans through Twitter and wrote: "Each year of our marriage has been made beautiful by everybody who wish us through letters, phone calls and Internet. Saira and I will spend the day, in quiet acknowledgement of what we mean to each other, now more than ever Inshallah." Thanking his fans, he added: "Praying in gratitude for all that Allah has blessed us with his bounty and benevolence. A million thank you for your prayers."
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Till we meet again
Jacqueline starrer Roy (which also stars Ranbir Kapoor and Arjun Rampal) will release on June 20. The same day Sajid Khan's Humshakal releases.
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Onto the dance floor
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Getting to know Nimrat Kaur
I don't go out with random people. Once I went out on a date and our car broke down midway and the ordeal had just begun. We went to a restaurant and it was a vegetarian one. So, we went to this other cafe but couldn't get a table. Flustered and famished, we ended up at a chaat corner on Carter Road. Surprisingly, it turned out to be quite romantic! It ended on a rather sweet note, although it was one of those days when everything went wrong. UFO experience Once, while vacationing at my grandparent's house in Rajasthan, we were sleeping on the roof and I spotted an object hovering around in the sky. It was kind of a UFO! It totally spooked me out. I couldn't sleep for days after that. Love for cooking I love cooking and I can make real good rajma chawal. It is a time consuming process and only for the consumption of a select few (smiles). I can also make delicious mutton biryani, though I must confess that I have stolen the recipe from my mother. Dream destination I so want to go to Spain. Actually, Barcelona to be specific. I have a thing for art and architecture. I am so fascinated by it that I have read up almost everything I could find about the place. I am planning to visit the place this year. Love for theatre I was doing this play, written by Miro Gavran, called All About Women. He is a contemporary Croatian writer and I really admire his work. We had exchanged a few mails and now that I'll be going to his country in a few days, I'll finally get to meet him. I am pretty excited about this rendezvous!
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Beyonce and a bomb shelter!
The Halo hit maker made a video at Greenham Common near London, which is a former Royal Air Force (RAF) base and the alleged site of a nuclear accident back in 1958, reported a website. "Beyonce is shooting a music video for every track in her new album. The record has been delayed, so she wants to make a big splash when it eventually comes out. She wants to be in the UK with baby daughter Blue Ivy as Jay Z tours, so this was a good chance to shoot a video in the UK. It's an amazing location for a music video," a source said. Beyonce also recently completed her The Mrs Carter Show World Tour. — PTI
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An unusual offer for Miley
According to a letter obtained by the website, the company will give Cyrus full creative control at the work and even takes an aim at Sinead O'Connor who recently told Miley to stop selling herself and focus on her music. "This gives you a chance to show the world that you are not a little girl anymore and you won't bow to pressures of the likes of Sinead O'Connor, who is jealous of your success," the letter reads. Cyrus has been in the headlines for her steamy MTV VMA performance. — PTI
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Breaking the stereotypes
Actor Hugh Jackman, who was groomed as a child to conceal his emotions, feels that an affectionate man can also be masculine.
The 44-year-old actor, who grew up in Australia, had always believed that real men do not show their feelings. But when he came to Italy, he realised that being emotional does not challenge one's masculinity, reported a website. "Growing up in Australia, my opinion of masculinity is that you don't show your feelings. A real man doesn't cry. My father is classic English- emotionally shut down- although in the past 10 years, he seems to have cried at every family reunion," Jackman said. "The real measure of a man is to be you. It's alright to show emotion. After traveling to Italy, I've learnt that I prefer their way. Over there men can show emotion; they can be affectionate and still be masculine," he added. The actor is married to 57-year-old actress Deborra-Lee Furness, with whom he has two children, Oscar and Ava. — PTI
Shahid exits Milan Talkies
Shahid Kapoor has exited Milan Talkies, which was to be directed by Tigmanshu Dhulia. He likes the director but he does not like the way Balaji camp operates. The movie has no cast at the moment.
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End of the road?
Production and creative teams are working hard on the next story line but the channel feels the best option is to end with a bang. However, producer Nikhil Sinha claims these are baseless
rumours.
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A lot in the name
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A deal worth it
ON THE TOP: Kapil Sharma
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Astro Turf
ARIES: New business deals offered to you are worth considering. Artists get acclaim for their work. You will find yourself misunderstood and isolated. Tarot message: You are on the right track; don't allow others to interfere in your way.
Lucky colour: Lotus pink Lucky number: 27
TAURUS: Business and work opportunities are aplenty. Take one step at a time to climb the ladder of success. You make an important effort to resolve family issues. A business venture is gainful. Tarot message: Business problems must be solved without hurting anyone.
Lucky colour: Black Lucky number: 59 GEMINI: Focus on routine work and maintain a low profile. Overseas contracts are lucrative. An important project is likely to encounter hurdles. Tarot message: You should pursue your goals without a thought for the disapproval.
Lucky colour: Green Lucky number: 26 CANCER: Friends and close relatives refuse to come to your aid. Poetry and literary gatherings hold your interest today. Despite your best efforts and willingness to compromise, domestic life may remain disturbed. Tarot message: Your determination to succeed will pay dividends. Lucky colour: Blue
Lucky number: 48 LEO: Participation in a charitable activity is indicated today. Share market yields good profits after an uncertain phase. Tune in to your favourite music genre and unwind with the loved ones. Tarot message: Don't allow others to interfere in your personal matters. Lucky colour: Peach
Lucky number: 45 VIRGO: Finances need urgent sorting out today. A happy event celebrated at home is enjoyable and keeps you on your toes. Work related journeys will be tiring.
Tarot message: Lack of confidence or lack of caution can leave you in losses; so be confident.
Lucky colour: White Lucky number: 25
LIBRA: Thoughts of giving up midway are high. So weigh pros and cons wisely. Cancerian surprises you with a generous gift. Socialising will keep you busy.
Tarot message: Seek facts and research well before making any moves. Lucky
colour: Red Lucky number: 50 SCORPIO: There could be new career opportunities for you. Spending quality time with your partner will be a priority for you. There could be good news regarding a family member. Tarot message: Try to be active in catching financial opportunities.
Lucky colour: Grey Lucky number: 58 SAGITTARIUS: Mediation takes you deeper within. Health and physical energy is good but you need to take frequent breaks and watch out your diet and fitness routine. Don't make financial decisions in haste. Tarot message: Leave things open-ended for best results Lucky colour: Magenta
Lucky number: 51 CAPRICORN: There could be appreciation for your ideas from colleagues. If there are important meetings today, you need to be focused and prepared, as seniors and business associates will take a note of your ability. Tarot message: Don't read too much into ordinary situations. Lucky colour: Yellow
Lucky number: 34 AQUARIUS: A trip is on the cards. Your past efforts will start to show results. Spend some time mulling over your options and don't hesitate to discuss things with close associates.
Tarot message: Feel free to change your mind. Lucky colour: Forest green Lucky number: 39 PISCES: You will be in a cheerful frame of mind. Going out of your way to help colleagues or loved ones will earn you appreciation. Spending time with loved ones will be a priority.
Tarot message: Students need to fine tune their plans for higher education. Lucky colour: Pink
Lucky number: 57
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The year ahead
If your birthday is October 12...
Your birthday this year falls on the Maha Ashtmi day of auspicious Navratras. You need plenty of patience, confidence and a strong voice to ensure others take notice of you. The energy of 3 allows you to bounce back rapidly from setbacks, physical or mental. Good with words, you excel in writing, speaking, and possibly singing. Jupiter has made you realistic, dignified, idealistic, and committed towards your work. Don't take loans or get into debit and keep an eye on your bank balance. Positive Colors: Yellow, Tan Wheat Select Days: Tuesday ,Thursday, Sunday Favourable Numbers: 3,6,9 Gems Recommended: Yellow sapphire, sunahla, amber Charity on Birthday: You may observe Ashtmi fast. Distribute black grams and halwa at any religious place or langar.
will do well in the world of music.
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Much before the likes of Marvels Avengers blinded us with their special effects, there existed the original super hero of the Indian television. The nice guy who packed in a punch and also the moral values, differentiated between good and evil, indulged in innocent believable heroics rather than the corrupted super powers.
What is vipassana meditation? Can it help in depression?
It was my first ramp walk in Punjab as the show-stopper for Riyaz Gangji’s Libaas at the Punjab Fashion Week! I've walked the ramp for many designers but this was my first in Punjab.
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.
Last week we discussed some of the forgotten fruits like jamun and karonda. This week we have more to remind you of the good olden-golden days. That was the time when most of the nutritional deficiencies were taken care of by the consumption of seasonal fruits and vegetables and the supply was also ample with low costs.
The sour sweet berries with masala were a treat. Our parents also used to encourage us to eat the fruit as it had the power to thwart heat during summers. The phalsa sherbet was like a treat after we returned home from school. This fruit also vanished over a period of time as the ripening of the berries was not uniform on the bush and repeated picking costs a fortune. Those ‘die-hards’ still have a bush or two in their orchards or even in home gardens. The bush that grows up to six to eight feet in a season is cut at three feet from the ground each year. The propagation is done by cuttings in January or from seeds that are sown immediately after plucking the fruit that is available during summer months. The fruit is also a rich source of fiber, a must for keeping the stomach in order.
War Chhod Na Yaar is India's first war comedy movie directed and written by Faraz Haider, who has assisted Dibakar Banerjee on Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye! The film features Sharman Joshi, Soha Ali Khan, Jaaved Jaafer, Sanjai Mishra, Dalip Tahil and Mukul Dev in the lead roles. The treatment of the humour in War Chhod Na Yaar has many layers, mostly situational, sometimes spoofy, sometimes slapstick, sometimes tongue-in-cheek, and sometimes even over-the-top. 
Lladró, the Spanish luxury porcelain brand announces its entry into Chandigarh with the launch of its first retail corner at Sant Ram Mangat Ram Jain Jewellers, Sector 17, Chandigarh.
Gionee Smartphone following the grand success of its Elife Series in Chandigarh has announced the arrival OGS Smartphone Elife E6. The latest in the Elife series, the E6 is a stunning example of exquisite style and exemplary substance.
After Shah Rukh Khan, it's Amitabh Bachchan who hugged Salman Khan. Bachchan, who was shooting for his upcoming film Bhoothnath 2, recently met Salman who was shooting in the same building for Sohail Khan's next film Jai Ho. The film was previously titled Mental.
Kareena Kapoor Khan ran into Anil Kapoor at the Mumbai Airport and she complimented him on his youthful appearance. She also wanted to know his secret for remaining so fit. Anil could not help but blush all along.
In an industry where marriages don't last long, veteran actor Dilip Kumar and actress Saira Banu have supported each other through thick and thin. The two, who married in 1966, celebrated their 47th wedding anniversary on October 11.
Sajid Khan and former girlfriend Jacqueline Fernandez are set to have a face-off, at the box office, with each other.
Kangna Ranaut has not really danced in any of her films but her dancing skills were put to test in Rajjo. She has danced her way into the hearts of fans with Julmi re julmi. She looks sexy in the song too.
Random dates
Pop star Beyonce has filmed a new video in a bomb shelter at Greenham Common, Newbury, in the UK.
Singer-actress Miley Cyrus has been offered USD 1 million deal to direct an adult movie. The offer comes from an adult movie retailer who says that they are ready to pay a hefty amount for Cyrus' work behind the camera, reported a publication.
Buzz is that the popular show Mahadev might just end by December. The show that made Mohit Raina a household name has been battling with dip in ratings.
At a recent event Puja Bose aka Parvati from Devon Ke Dev Mahadev wanted to be called Puja Banerjee.It turned out that apparently Bose is her married name and she has got a divorce now. So she is back to her maiden surname.
Kapil Sharma is ruling the roost. After the superhit Comedy Nights With Kapil, now the comedian has got an offer to be part of reality show Nach Baliye. Apparently he has been approached for the show with his girlfriend Preeti Simoes. If he agrees, he will not only make his relationship public but also add a lot of weight to the show.
Ehsaan Noorani