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You bat!
While some people leave you with an impression, there are others who leave an impact, and impact is definitely mightier than impression. The sunny autumn morning at JW Marriot brought along the company of Jonty Rhodes, complementing the weather. As a man of much experience and calibre, as a cricketer, a traveller, and a businessperson, it is almost impossible to pick one aspect of his character, which best defines him.
We find one aspect of his disposition that sums him the best-humility. Business with pleasure For someone whose middle name is fitness, need not define his fascination with the same. And in Jonty's case, one can well imagine the seriousness with which he takes to his health and fitness regime as it reflects on his chiselled athletic body. Jonty has launched a line of health supplements and he is the director of Evolution Sports Nutrition. "Until 1996 World Cup, cricket teams would have at their disposal only a coach and a physiotherapist, who would assist in recovering. Since recovery is pivotal to gymming, one needs fuel that keeps you going before and after the work out," says Jonty. "Also, the daily diet cannot really provide one with the necessary supplements, thus came the Evolution Sports Nutrition," he adds. It's all about the game Jonty is a fitness trainer for the IPL team of Mumbai Indians and when asked to name a few Indian cricketers, who according to him are the fittest, he is honest and prompt. "Both Virat Kohli and Shikhar Dhawan are really fit. But I am mighty impressed with Suresh Raina's energy and will. He often reminds me of myself as I watch him playing and fielding especially. He never lets go without trying," he smiles. However, when it comes to expressing his views on match fixing, Jonty remains unruffled as he clarifies that he has never seen something of that sort in his life. "Like you, I have read about match fixing in the newspapers or watch about it on the television. Personally, I have never seen anything of this sort happening, at least in front of me. I feel cricketers take risk and sometimes it comes to a pass, and sometimes, it does not. As a spectator it is difficult to analyse what goes on in the field. For instance, many a times, the audience flashes mirror lights in your eyes too, and it's possible for a player to miss the catch," he explains. Gulmarg & gulab jamun Known for biking across India on his Royal Enfield, Jonty claims that India surprises him in many ways. "I did not know India as well when I was a player. I do travel a lot on my bike, even when I am in Mumbai, I drive to Lonavla on the weekends. Also, I enjoyed the snow boating at Gulmarg. However, what I fancy about India is that it is so diverse in terms of culture and traditions," he says while adding, "But one thing that surprises me about this country is its open spaces. As a player, I only got to see the crowd, but when I travelled, I discovered beautiful empty spaces, where I found much peace and quiet." Jonty also fancies Indian food. He says, "I am quite amazed by the variety Indian food offers. I am absolutely hooked to gulab jamuns," he smiles. When asked that which place in India he would like to settle in, he shares, "Mumbai is too crowed, so I would prefer Gulmarg!" Hockey or cricket Jonty happens to be one of the rare players who played both hockey and cricket. So which of the two does he likes the most? "I think that I was a better hockey player than a cricket player. While in hockey I was a star, I could only gain much recognition as a good fielder as a cricketer. Had things worked my way, I would have loved to play hockey, but it seems like cricket chose me." amarjot@tribunemail.com
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A soothing tone
Between the cause and the celebrity endorsing it, it's usually the celebrity who unintentionally walks away with all the limelight. The cause takes a backseat and the celebrity's personal resume gets highlighted. So when Satinder Sartaj walks in to promote the cause of cancer awareness, we expect the same, the singer talking about his old and new albums, latest works, his take on the Punjabi film industry and when he will become an active part of it…. However, for a change, cause takes over the celebrity this time.
"The fact that a region in Punjab is known as the cancer belt makes the issue grave enough to concentrate on. Singing for a noble cause is celebrating art in the best possible way," comes from the singer, who was in Chandigarh to hold a concert to raise funds for Rani Breast Cancer Trust. Back from the extremely hectic tour in the US, where he performed at 17 concerts in 17 different cities in a span of two months, affiliated with a cause like this, he says, "Makes it worthwhile to return to the roots. Only when awareness would be created, more women would come forward to undergo the mammography test, the first step to detect cancer," adds Sartaj, who hasn't charged any money to perform at the concert. He was ably supported by Bittu Sandhu, the founder of the trust that was formed in the year 2010. With the funds collected, Bittu aims to buy a van equipped with mamography test machines. "If women from rural areas of the region can't reach us, we aim to reach out to them and conduct the tests. It's unfortunate that instead of undergoing treatment, women hide this disease," Bittu adds. Bittu suggests that women above the age of 18 should self examine themselves at least twice a month. She says, "Women above forty should undergo the test." Coming to self-examination, she says that is the easiest way to discover a lump, if there is any. Sartaj takes over, "While breastfeeding is known to be a preventive measure, it's important that children aren't deprived of mother's milk." Everything in a bid to make the cause take the centre-stage! ashima@tribunemail.com
Globe trotter
You could sense the reluctance in Satinder Sartaj to talk about anything else but cancer awareness. But known for his humility, he doesn't turn down any question. Sharing anecdotes from his US tour, he says that Punjabi might not be a part of the curriculum in the country, but it is taught in the gurudwaras there. "It is a pleasure to see how children are being educated about their rich culture and heritage." Next, on the cards is New Zealend and Austrailia tour in March next year, UK in April and Canada in May. With so much happening already, who has time for films? "I will act if I get a script worth it. But I am happy the way Punjabi film industry is blooming." So is everybody else!
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Let’s dance
Raquesh and Riddhi are a fun real life couple all set to sizzle on reality dance show Nach Baliye Season 6. They met on the sets of Maryada, a serial, fell in love and got married. Two and a half years later, they have finally found time together to dance but all's not easy!
"The rehearsals for the show are no less than an Army training camp," they echo. "Each day Raquesh squeezes sweat out of his shirt, so rigorous are the rehearsals," says Riddhi. If they are all praise for their choreographer who they feel plays an equally important part, they believe most other couples are professional dancers. Riddhi has been on Shiamak Davar's troupe and is passionate about dancing. "I have been out of practice, and lot has changed since then, but yes I am as passionate about dancing as ever."
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Look who’s back!
Height of arrogance, heights of modesty and even heights of jealously--now comedian actor Bhagwant Mann comes up with a new term, heights of piracy.
"People ask me where can they download the link to my album, and I tell them piracy tey aap karlo, odey lai tuhaanu meri lod hai." With everyone in splits already, Bhagwant Mann knows he has set the tempo. Out of sight for almost four years, the comedian shows glimpses of his the good ol' Bhagwant Mann. All is not lost, "Yes, I have been away for a while, busy in politics. This, however, hasn't affected my entertainment work. Whatever I do, I do it with complete honesty," he clears his stance. In Chandigarh to release his album Kulfi Garma Garam 2, he doesn't try to scuttle any question, no matter how direct it is. Politics and its various consequences and connotations? "I don't regret any decision of mine. In fact, I completely believe that whatever happened, happened for a reason and I am glad that it happened," says Mann coming to his USP- the apt, the bull's eye kind of satire. "This album has no political connection. I do satire which is topical and situational. It is never personal or meant to hurt anyone. I make a conscious effort that I update my satire regularly." Bhagwant will soon be seen in a comedy film Moga to Melbourne. Talking about Punjabi films, Bhagwant is surprised to see how every Punjabi film is a comedy. "The meaning of films in Punjab is comedy. However, I don't believe in following the popular path. The strength of a person lies in maintaining a stand." Comedy is no longer a simple task. It never was, but now it is no longer a simple business either. "There is so much competition in comedy. Forget about double meaning comedy, some people have become direct in their punches, which is not meant for family viewing," shares Bhagwant.
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Smart choice
The device behind the three is the same - Nokia Lumia 1020. With 41 megapixel sensor camera catches sharp pictures in different light settings. Not only that you can also shoot blur-free videos with stereo sound. With Diwali around the corner, it's raining offers. Nokia Lumia comes with an attractive one. Available in stores now Lumia 1020 gets you insurance for one year, you get access to some 3000 latest movies, ebooks, preferential treatment at Nokia Care outlets and the option to print images through Zoomin App. More? It's dual capture feature takes high resolution as well as less resolution pictures that are easy to be shared on social networking sites. It's Pro Zoom app lets you click picture first and zoom later! "Smartphone imaging takes another leap with Nokia Lumia 1020. It's easier to shoot, boosts creativity and makes it possible to edit and share picture with never before clarity," says Ravi Kunwar, director North, Nokia Limited. Priced at Rs 49,999 and in three colours yellow, white and black has multitude of features that makes it worth a check out. It's available on EMIs too and Nokia pays interest for you. Catch Diwali celebrations on your new camera, umm, phone…
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Creative line
From reprints to abstracts to landscapes, the 2nd edition of Ocher Art Fair aims to pack it all while bringing forward 30 artists and 136 art works. Shares Baani Sekhon, the curator, "We have tried to put forth artists from all over India. There are a lot of newcomers as well because going by our experience, they did well last time. We have artists from Rajasthan, Kerala, Bengal, Hyderabad, apart from city based artists." The pan India presence should make way for some observations and interpretations. She opines, "People generally prefer oils and acrylics because these don't need a glass. As far abstracts are concerned, there are a lot of buyers for them as well." Colour & form Some of the works are a deluge of colours, while others stand silent with monochromes. To begin with, there's Anand Shende's acrylic on canvas titled, Chaiwala and Childhood. The little kettle in the boy's hands speaks more than the bigger elements. He shares, "I wanted to give a very happy feel to the work. It speaks of enjoyment and celebration." Moving on, there's Manoj Das' Jeevan Tarang that catches the eye with its firm, assertive strokes and Satyajeet Shinde's series titled Chess. Shares Baani, "This has been requested by a lot of corporate buyers because of what it symbolises." The indomitable kind stands against several pawns. Parmesh Paul's works on the Benaras ghats appears as painstaking as promising. Moving on, Ramchandra' Pokale's depiction of a little girl in school uniform, titled Freedom, brings forward the nostalgia of childhood and carefree days. Panchgani-based artist, Swati Kale's water lilies bring the much needed and beautiful respite from symbolic art. Master strokes Those who'd rather have reprints than replicas, there're a whole lot of prints available of over 60 masterpieces, priced between Rs 2,000 to Rs 5,000. The biggest of names in the art share space on one wall. There's Vincent Van Gogh's Sunflowers, Claude Monet's Water Lilies, Degas' Ballerinas, Georges Seurat's pointillism, Gustav Klimt's decorative patterns, Paul Cezanne asymmetrical still life, Pierre Renoir's Paris themes, William Turner's seascapes, Alfred Sisley and Camille Pissarro's rural landscapes, Henri de Toulouse Lautrec's Vintage posters. Take your pick! manpriya@tribunemail.com On till October 20 at Sobha Singh Art Gallery, Punjab Kala Bhawan-16, Chandigarh.
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Blend with the best
Starting off as a traditional performer, Ustad Fazal Qureshi found new freedom as a percussionist when he started responding to and playing with musical influences from across the world. In 1987 Mynta (the music band for which he has been playing for the past over a decade) happened, and since then his music has found yet new means, languages and collaborators across the world.
Scion of the tabla gharana of India, he delights audiences across the world with his forte in classical music as well as an uncanny understanding of picking up and creating delightful experiences out of the strains and rhythms, he picks up from other cultures. In Jalandhar for a concert at the Lovely Professional University, the student audience had a peak into his rhythmic prowess. Excerpts from an interview on the sidelines of the concert: The roots of the tabla tradition in your family lie in Punjab. What difference, music wise, do you find in the Punjab of the past and that now. Do you think classical music in the region is still as alive? I visited Jalandhar about three to four years later this time. Because of my father's disciple Kulwinder Singh Ji, I get to visit Punjab when he calls. Be it his students, or the students who expressed a desire to learn music at the (Lovely Professional) university, I feel the propagation of the musical tradition or love for tabla itself, in the region, is profound. The tradition still continues to be encouraged which is very reassuring for me. Do you feel fusion somewhere deprives the listener of the purer form of a music tradition? To some extent I do agree that fusion concerts have become a fashion and people for whatever reasons-good or bad-are increasingly preferring them. But I think, in the hand of good musicians, this fusion goes a long way in presenting a perfect blend of styles or disciplines. Seasoned musicians are able to retain the sanctity of a classical tradition while giving a peak into other genres. It's in the hands of the musician to adapt and balance the two flavours well. As Ustad Zakir Hussan's younger brother, comparisons have always been inevitable. What do you think is the unique aspect which makes you stand out from him as a musician? In the beginning of my journey as a musician the comparisons with my elder brother were indeed there. But currently they are dying down. I have my own style and artistic personality as a percussionist - mixing the traditional and modern. So people identify me with my style. Except Indian percussion, which exotic percussion experience are you most fond of? I am very fond of the African instruments Djembe or Congo. Africans have a liberating way of playing with their music. I find that very attractive and I like their rhythms and percussion. Tell us about your experiences with Mynta and your upcoming projects with the band? When we started as band, we were still striving to get our foothold in the field of music but down the line we learnt to enhance our performances while identifying and using other musical influences. Mynta is more like a world music band than a fusion band. We began presenting interpretations of our African, Indian, Chinese and Swedish folk and other experiences which also had a lot to do with the places we visited. We are also trying to get in other musical styles in our fold. Next year we shall be having our tour in India in January and we are also working on an album. Ustad Qureshi's other plans include annual concert performance (held for the Ustad Allah Rakha Foundation) which might see a musical (fusion) meeting of both the brothers next year. Work on the concert series - Connecting Three Worlds - which is a treasure of Indian, Arabic, Jazz, Swedish, Rajasthani folk influences, is also on.
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Non-stop music
Dwelling on the idea of innovation and experimentation, DJ Bhanu and Satvinder Sonu of Speed Records have come up with their album The Best of Remix 2013 and DJ Hits Non-stop.
As we engage ourselves in an interesting conversation with DJ Bhanu, we are acquainted with the reasons that led to this project. "In the albums we have covered a lot of new Punjabi songs with the motive of prolonging their shelf life. Also, I am a retailer with the Speed Records, which implies that I do not have to purchase their copy rights or ask the singers to re-sing the songs," says Dj Bhanu. "The DJ Hits Non-stop contains almost all tracks that are produced under the banner of Speed Records. Each track is not more than 90 seconds," he adds. Talking about their future plans, Satvinder Sonu says, "We are planning to organise an event that will have DJ Bhanu and other singers, since we have a tie-up with as many as 60 singers. This event, Winter Heat, will be like the Sunburn festival. The only difference is that ours will have Punjabi songs." The record label is also planning on organising a 12-hour-long party. Satvinder is already in talks with LPU to conduct the same. "Our idea is not to anglicise the Punjabi music but add beats and loops to the persisting tracks. We have added a lot of dhol and tumbi as we do not want to tamper with the soul of the songs," he signs off. amarjot@tribunemail.com
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Sky is the limit!
Few decades back it meant a lot to carry your 'phone' in the pocket if you were born when landline connections were the only option. It's a given today! For Diwali Tata Sky has launched 'TV in your pocket now…
Their new app that can be downloaded on any Apply or android phone lets you enjoy TV anywhere and everywhere and all at Rs 60 per month. The offer is on for Tata Sky users, and only condition you need to have 3G connectivity. In Chandigarh to launch 'everywhere TV', Vikram Mehra CCO, That Sky Ltd, says, "Our surveys have shown that most people spend a lot of time in daily commute and with TV in your pocket can come handy." Not only you get access to channels that you have subscribed to at home, but also you can catch any shows that you have missed in previous five days plus video on demand and active music, you get to listen to different genres of music ghazals, amrit vani or romantic numbers without any ad break and, all comes at Rs 2 a day. "We have kept it very simple. Any Tata Sky user can register their mobile device with us, and call up to register, in real time we will get the service activated for you." They claim to have no processing fee, no hidden charges, no extra payments and you get TV wherever you wish.
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Hair we go!
Hair care
I keep my hair tied up in a pony tail or a bun. This prevents my hair from getting tangled. I use a mild daily wear serum on my hair which keeps it soft and tangle free. Also, I try and avoid using shampoos with chemicals. Natural conditioner I think oiling is the best thing that can happen to your hair. I use almond oil twice a week as it is a natural conditioner for hair. Diet wise A protein rich diet is the best. And natural sources are always a better source like sprouts, eggs and soy. Also, try and drink a lot of water. Style file Being an actress, I need to style my hair using heating irons and chemicals so the biggest problem I face is that of dry hair. Pollution, heat and unnatural hair practices like getting tongs done and using hair sprays is the main cause of dryness. A hot oil treatment is the best to cure both hair and scalp dryness. Also, I counter balance by the usage of natural home-made remedies. I believe the best secrets for hair are found in the kitchen. Home remedy Mix natural yogurt with lime and leave it on the scalp and hair for 30 minutes, then wash out with a mild shampoo. I believe doing this once a month is sure to keep your hair soft and glowing.
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Salman ridicules Ranbir!
Salman Khan apparently ridiculed Ranbir's latest movie Besharam on his show Bigg Boss 7. The incident took place on the reality show when Jaaved Jaffrey and Sharman Joshi came to promote their film War Chodd Na Yaar.
While they were talking about the box-office collections of their movies, Sharman reminded Salman that despite getting a three-star rating from critics, 3 Idiots became one of the biggest blockbusters of the year. Salman, on the other hand, told Sharman that his movies never get critic appreciation. Furthermore, Salman took a dig at Ranbir's latest film Besharam by joking that critics had initially given the Ranbir-starrer just one-a-half stars and later deducted that one star too. This comment raised several eyebrows. However, the makers of the show have decided not to air this portion. It is clear that Salman is not very fond of Ranbir. We wonder if it's because of Katrina? Only Salman Khan can speak his mind in Bollywood and get away with it! While talking about making chappatis with the contestants of his show Bigg Boss 7, there was a reference to the belan (rolling pin) and the 47-year-old actor remember Vidya Balan. Ouch!
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I want to be remembered for my roles…
Bollywood actor Raj Kumar Yadav will be next seen in a film called Shahid. The film is based on the life of the activist and lawyer Shahiz Azmi, who was shot dead in Mumbai in 2010. We caught up with Raj Kumar to talk about his role and more…
How did the movie happen? I was shooting for Wasseypur with Anurag Kashyap. That's when he and Mukesh Chhabra (the casting director) thought of me and soon I was narrated the story. I was moved by it and felt inspired. So I had to be a part of this film. Did you train for the role? Yes. I had to learn some gunfire. I also went to courts to examine lawyers and to see how they behave. I spent time with Shahid Azmi's family because they were our only source of information. Not much was known about him. I wanted to learn about him and act his part just as he was. Did you meet his entire family? Yes, I met his mom. She calls me Shahid. His nephew still calls me Chachu. I spent a lot of time with his younger brother Khalid who had given me most of the information about him and all I wanted to know. How difficult is to play a biopic character? More than difficult I think it is a responsibility because you know his family is still there. There are people who know him and will judge you. Also, I am sure people who don't know Shahid will remember me as him. So it's a huge responsibility. Has his family seen the film? His brother saw the film. He was more than happy. He said it was exactly the way he was. There were limited facilities on the sets but it was the passion and focus we were making the film with, rest just followed on its own. Also, some people who
knew Shahid and saw the film, came up to me and told that this is how he was in the court. What's next for you? Next is a film called Queen with Kangana Ranaut which will start in February and I am also doing a film with Vishesh Films. There are 2-3 other interesting projects. I want to do something which is strong and not just do it for the sake of it. I want to be remembered for my roles.
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The Year Ahead
If your birthday is October 17...
Positive colours: Dark blue, dark grey
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High-voltage drama
A huge drama is about to begin in Diya aur Baati Hum which will expose Meena’s all wrong-doings. She tries to save herself but is unable to do so. She gives Chavi’s jewellery back to her. Chavi knows that Meena has lost one of the earrings and asks her to pay for it. Meanwhile Sooraj and Sandhya find out that the jewellery bought by Bhabho is fake. Bhabho plans to sell her kamarbandh to buy new jewellery.
Role call: Samir Kocchar
Real take: Ratan Rajput
Dolly gets lucky
Confirming the news, she says, “I am playing Parvati's mother, I'm going to be dressed in the way South Indian women dress up. It is the first time ever that I am doing a mythological show. I watch Mahadev because Mohit played my son in Bhabhi. It’s nice to see him become so famous today. I am happy for him.”
On being asked how it feels to be still remembered for her role in Bhabhi, she says, “It used to come so many years ago and people still remember it, so it feels fantastic. Producer Nikhil Sinha has made Mohit Raina a star and audiences love this mythological show. Who doesn’t want to be a part of a hit show?
She is also producing a Punjabi film. "By March next year, things will hopefully fall in place," she adds.
A couple to be: Ravi Dubey and Sargun Mehta
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Astro Turf
ARIES: Your card suggests that extra money is likely to come from somewhere. You will start off in a confident, optimistic mood. Life is not likely to run according to plans. Personal dreams and hopes should be given priority.
Tarot message: Take time before reacting.
TAURUS: Stay focused on business because that’s what will pay dividends. Family members are co-operative. Romance could lead to turmoil and upheaval. Get more rest.
GEMINI: Reckless spending will be a cause for regret. No matter how tempting or urgent the purchase may be, think twice before pulling out your credit card or handing over the cash.
CANCER: You have sufficient funds but stick to window shopping. Arrangements you made to meet with friends can change at the last moment. Expect some chaos and mayhem at airports.
LEO: You will enjoy tidying up and sorting all your paper work into coherent order. Check your bank account. Romance will be happy. Try to be true to your feelings.
VIRGO: Do not bottle up emotions and become agitated. Plan some fun activities. Influential people will like your style. Health issues should be treated right away and not put off.
LIBRA: Your personal skills and style of working are likely to shine out and noticed. Pay attention to the financial matter that has been delayed. No special problems to deal with at home.
SCORPIO: Lots of secrets will be revealed. Stimulating and thought provoking ideas will be in abundance. Your partner might take you for a vacation. Business will be smooth enough.
SAGITTARIUS: It is a day when dreams will come true. If you believe in something with enough heart and hope, it might just happen. You are in a position to motivate others. Tarot message: You will not get away with wrong doings, so don't even try.
CAPRICORN: Health problems or chronic conditions show obvious signs of improvement. Your spouse is likely to be erratic. You might find that your work load has increased.
AQUARIUS: The card “The Page of Swords” reveals that you are noted for your resilience. Keep extra cash in hand to cope with additional expenses. Learn to love and appreciate people around you.
PISCES: It is important that you get expert advice to help you sort out your problems. Creative work is favoured over mundane routine jobs. |
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Three celebrities and their frames dot the hall — Imtiaz Ali with his picture frames, JJ Valaya with his designs and Chef Vikas Khanna, who has captured the true essence of spices!
Apart from a million other things, art is infinite. An ever lasting medium to never ending emotions. There's a sea of expressions to capture and countless feelings to give colour to. Some struggle to display the eternal truth of human life, others just want to escape into the utopian world of childhood memories.
Simi Garewal (October 17,1947,Delhi) usually wears white clothes on TV shows and at award ceremonies. She is popularly known as ‘The Lady in White’. She acted in Do Badan, Mera Naam Joker, also made a documentary called Living Legend Raj Kapoor. Her stars dont favour family life, but they propel fame.
Second shot
Not love actually
Dancing away to glory
A wedding in waiting