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A grand cause
Growing up in Chandigarh as a young teen, many decades back, she was told not to laugh. 'Girls don't laugh', she was scolded by some considerate elder way too many times.
It's only much later that she found out that laughter is a symbol of satisfaction, freedom and prosperity long-denied to women folk.
Chaand Chazelle was not cowed down by people or circumstances though; her novel Girls Don't Laugh is on its way but it's her feature film Throw Of A Dice that's brought her to Chandigarh this time. The film, which was screened at Alliance Française-36 on Saturday, has for its theme, 'Our appearance should never provoke the ugly head of discrimination as the entire human race shares 99.9 per cent of genes." If Chaand suffered the brunt of being a female in her first sixteen years here in India, her life in London was no less challenging. She's embittered and that comes out in her speech. "My father was a doctor, my brother became one. I too wanted to be but was told sternly, 'Ladkiyon ko koi zaroorat nahi hai kaam karne ki, padhai karo, phir ghar basao." But she did not think so. "I never dreamt of a nice man that I will marry and get busy looking after home as well as family. I eventually fell in love, married and that loser scooted off when I was three months pregnant." The good part is that despite being challenged by tough situations, she's not blind to good and dares to raise her voice against everything bad. "Marriage doesn't bind people; it teaches no responsibility. You are what you are, there have been couples who have been together for four decades and have kids without being married," she says. Her experiences have found life in her stories and films. Naqaab Uthne Tak is a short story collection. Ek Sawal in this has a doctor asking another, 'If all the girl children are killed in the womb where will they find a womb to produce a boy?" Gender imbalance she believes leads to may ills, rape being one of them. "I had thought after the Delhi incident there would be no rape in India, guess I was quite wrong," says Chaand while sharing the statistics that there was a rape every 22 minutes in India. Throw Of A Dice has opened to a packed house, won critic's approval and awards; Chaand's next short film is about elderly and their life in the West. "Weather is harshly cold; there are no seats on bus stops, apartments are small in order to save energy to keep it warm. They are claustrophobic! That's the part of my film that I will shoot in coming February." England though is home for her as she has been there for four decades now. She admits there is world of difference today. "When I went, if one would converse in Hindi or Punjabi others would raise eyebrows. Things changed for the better as my son was growing up. One day he talked me on phone in his tuti futi Hindi; he got complimented, 'Great bro, you speak another language." Not like its all good now, "This year only a man questioned me on how dare I speak in Hindi to another woman; I raised hell till everyone in the locality was issued a letter that everyone has the right to speak in the language." But it's not just here that Chaand would want to stop. The draft for her next big film is ready; it is tentatively called Retrieving Kohinoor. So far, she's managed her creative pursuits from her own pocket (she sold her house to fund Throw Of A Dice), but she wants a financer to fund this one. She has plans to rope in a big name for that film. "Equal opportunities are what I advocate for everyone; no more, no less!" she says.
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Time to get serious!
All those asking when the Punjabi film industry will churn out a film that's not a comedy, Kirpaan—The Sword of Honour purports to be just that and much more!
Shot in Punjab, Mumbai and London, the film is an entertainer that touches on historical and cultural issues.
Amrik Gill, who has earlier written dialogues for films like Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Jeet, Yaadein Yaaran Naal Baharan and Tera Mera Ki Rishta, turns director with this film. "I have spent considerable time on the story. I wanted to make a film that inspires the youth. Time is right and the audience ready to watch a film like this and here we are." The film that aims to tread the middle path between commercial and art cinema stars Roshan Prince, Sameksha, Gurleen Chopra and Shivendra Mahal. "I took time saying yes to the film for I was not sure if I will be able to do justice to the role. The director's faith in me was a motivating factor," says Roshan Prince who's acted and sung in the film. "Usually we say about every film that it has a message; this one truly has and a significant one!" says Roshan. It is Chandigarh girl Sameksha's first Punjabi venture. She plays an ambitious girl aware of what she wants from life. "The characters are so beautifully etched that people would relate to them. I am very happy to have this film as my entry point into Punjabi cinema," says Sameksha. Gurleen along with her director has a word of praise for the producer Rajinder Pal Banwait, "There are very few production houses in the Punjabi film industry, which pay without asking. It only motivates the artistes." The shooting is complete; the poster has fierce-looking Roshan donning a pagri and holding a kirpan. "We must be in touch with our virasat. It's sad to see youngsters losing track; my film is an elder's advice to the younger generation. Ahsaas da rishta is a beautiful song," says Amrik Gill who has been student of Department of Indian Theatre, Punjab University and National School of Drama, Delhi, and a companion of Balwant Gargi. "There is an element of drama in my works," admits Amrik. "But it's not melodrama," he adds. The film, which will be released next year, has a clear message — learn from past mistakes and do not repeat them.
mona@tribunemail.com
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Madonna's hot properties!
Queen of Pop Madonna has pocketed USD 8 million from the sale of her Beverley Hills mansion, which had been on the market for 10 months.
The 55-year-old singer purchased the 17,000 square foot house with her then-husband Guy Ritchie in 2003 for USD 12 million and sold it for USD 20 million, reported a publication online.
The new owner is a wealthy Wall Street banker, who was attracted by the privacy that the posh abode offers. The secluded property is shielded from the public thanks to a 500 foot tree-lined driveway, with the perimeter of the estate also surrounded by trees. The massive mansion boasts of 15 bathrooms, nine bedrooms and a two-storey dining room, as well as its own pool, cinema, tennis court and state-of-the-art gym. Meanwhile, Madonna is said to be on the hunt for a smaller Los Angeles pad to raise her children in. The mother-of-four— who has children Lourdes, Rocco, David and Mercy —also has properties in London and New York. Madonna also listed one of her New York apartments, shortly after putting the Beverley Hills mansion on the market, deciding she much preferred her triple-wide townhouse on the Upper East Side of the city.
— PTI
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Tom Cruise gets going
Cruise will play an American automotive designer Shelby, who teams with Ford executives to change the image of the brand and aims to compete in European car racing. The project is in the early development stages and the studio is hoping to finalise the script and begin shooting next year.
— PTI
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Lindsay is sober: Michael Lohan
Lindsay Lohan's father Michael Lohan has shot down reports suggesting that his daughter might be drinking again after the actress promised to stay sober.
The 27-Year-old Mean Girls star, who had sought rehab facility for her alcohol addiction, was recently photographed reaching out for a bottle of wine, reported a publication online.
"Oh my God. The story is ridiculous. First of all, I've never known Lindsay to ever, ever, ever have a glass of wine," Michael said. "I've seen and speak to Lindsay constantly and every time I do, she is of clear mind and by no means do I have any suspicion of her relapsing in any way," he added. The actress, who finished a court-ordered rehabilitation stint in July, had promised to stay sober in an interview with Oprah Winfrey.
— PTI
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Fatherhood has given me purpose: Kanye
"It's one thing for me to say that I want to do things to help the world, it's another thing to really have a family, to really understand what it means to be a dad. It gives you real perspective of the American dream, the world dream. The meaning of life to me is life itself, family," he said. The 36-year-old rapper is going gaga over his fiancée Kardashian too. "She gave me a beautiful daughter and she has an amazing, beautiful family, who are now also my family…She looks pretty good, too."
— PTI
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Splitsville for Orlando, Miranda
Actor Orlando Bloom and supermodel Miranda Kerr have announced the end of their marriage of three years.
The 36-year-old actor, who began dating Kerr, 30, in 2007, tied the knot with her in 2010. The couple have a son together and had been living separately for a few months, reported a publication online.
"In a joint statement, Orlando Bloom and Miranda Kerr have announced that they have been amicably separated for the past few months," a representative of Bloom said. "After six years together, they recently decided to formalise their separation. Despite this being the end of their marriage, they love, support and respect each other as both parents of their son and as family," he added. The pair's last public appearance was at the opening of Romeo and Juliet on Broadway on September 19.
— PTI
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The superhero bandwagon
"It is not like Krrish 3, it is something very different. It is going to be a fantasy film. It is going to be a trilogy which Ayan has just started writing. We share a great personal and professional relation," Ranbir said. This would be the third film of Ranbir and Ayan after Wake Up Sid and Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani. Both the films were hits at the box office. Ranbir is also looking at exploring himself by playing different roles in films. "My next film is titled Bombay Velvet. I am playing a boxer in the film. Then I am working on Imtiaz Ali's film and Ayan Mukherjee's superhero film. I will start this film by end of next year. I am trying to do different characters, like in Besharam I played a vulgar, road type tapori character," Ranbir said. He also expressed his desire to do an action movie.
— PTI
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Newbie actress Shraddha Kapoor is leaving no stone unturned for her upcoming film with Mohit Suri, tentatively titled The Villain, and is learning how to ride a bike for it.
Siddharth Malhotra and Shraddha have been paired opposite each other for the first time.
Both Siddharth and Shraddha tasted success with their last films Student of the Year and Aashiqui 2 respectively.
Shraddha is practicing how to ride a bike in the by-lanes of Mumbai's Juhu locality and has been a quick learner, sources said. She is even contemplating buying a bike given her enthralling experience, the source added.
— PTI
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Baba Ramdev’s tips
WORD WISE: (L-R) Debina, Gurmeet and Baba Ramdev Some of the tips which Baba Ramdev shared with the jodi were, "The couples should follow three most important things to enhance their performance in the show. They should drink hot water in the morning, do Kapalbhati and Trikonasana. These are very important for the body and helps in building stamina. With the above three things anyone can face challenges and stay strong in the competition." He was also quick to point out, in his characteristic style, that for the Nach Baliye couples it is very important to look good on stage as, " iss profession mein joh achcha dikhta hain vahi bikta hai…aur usiki taareef hoti hai". Before leaving, he urged the couples to take up yoga and then wished them all the very best for the show. Gurmeet and Debina also invited Baba Ramdev to come on Nach Baliye stage in one of the episodes and share this knowledge with all the other couples as well. Baba Ramdev promised that he would definitely try to make it for one of the episodes. Will he actually come on the show? Let's wait and watch.
Century up!
Celebration time on the sets of Do Dil Ek Jaan The daily soap revolves around a Kashmiri girl Antara (Nikita Sharma) who moves to the big city Mumbai with her family and falls in love with a goon Raghu (Ayaz Ahmed). Having popularised the on-screen character Antara on the show, Nikita expressed her happiness on completion of 100 episodes. "Do Dil Ek Jaan has changed my life. I am really overwhelmed and thankful for the love and support I have received from my fans. The completion of a 100 episodes feels really special after all the hardwork we have put in. I feel we deserve the win," she said. Also known for the popular daily soap Madhubala, Nautanki Films founder Abhinav Shukla said "The tremendous response the show has received this early has come as a pleasant surprise for us. We are glad that the show has shaped up exactly the way we conceived it. The positive feedback received by the audience is really encouraging."
Dressed to perfection
What does fashion mean to you? Fashion is comfort for me; something that reflects my style and accentuates my body type. What kind of accessories do you wear? I like rings and purses. I don't buy much of necklaces or earrings as they get stuck in my hair. So I have deleted them from my wardrobe completely. Do you follow any brands? Not really, but I do have some outfits from brands like Zara, FCUK, Forever New, Dorthy Perkins. I also have some handbags of premium quality, including Gucci and Burberry. I have some twenty pieces. Some brand new and others over a year old. What was your most
expensive buy? Louis Vuitton bag in beige colour with a leather sheen; it's limited edition but not monogrammed. It's spacious and stylish, which goes with all dresses. I bought Louis Vuitton shoes too, which have their famous monogram but on the side. I don't like flashy things. What outfits are you comfortable in? One-piece dresses are the easiest as you don't have to think a lot. I also love shirts, denims and belts. What are the must-haves in your purse? A credit card, lip balm
and glares.
Kirti Nagpure, who stars in Sony Entertainment Television's newly launched show Desh ki beti Nandini, is excited to ride a Scooty in the serial. "I have never driven a two-wheeler in my life, so I was very much looking forward to it. In fact, my co-star Raafi Malik helped me a lot by giving some tips on how to create the right balance. It is tough initially but once you get the technique its fun. Now I keep riding it all over the set. Well, it seems our Nandini knows how to make the most of everything!
HAVING FUN: Kirti Nagpure
This weekend Sonu Nigam will be seen as the guest on the hit show Comedy Nights with Kapil. Sonu is a good friend of host Kapil Sharma and the latter wanted to shoot with him last month, but a fire destroyed the sets. However, finally when the show was shot, the two had a good time singing and talking about their lives.
At Home: Sonu Nigam on the sets of Comedy Nights With Kapil
Model-turned-actress Bruna Abdullah will now be seen in Nach Baliye 6. She was last seen in the adult comedy Grand Masti, but has never spoken about her relationships. But now she will be forthcoming about it.
SHOW TIME: Bruna Abdullah
Bipasha Basu advised Priyanka Chopra to wear flats while travelling to prevent knee and back problems later on. PC is grateful to the Bong bombshell for her advice and now wears flats while
travelling. Kind gesture: Bipasha Basu
Dramatic twist
Bade Achhe Lagte Hain on Sony Entertainment Television has won the hearts of millions of viewers. In an upcoming episode, there will be some drastic twist, where Priya's three daughters Pihu, Myrah and Pari will be seen going against her.
— HRM
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ASTRO TURF
ARIES: You will be under some stress this morning. Do not attempt to get new plans going. Work in seclusion from your own house if possible. Take the help of a Gemini person. Tarot message: Stabilise your financial situation by making investments in property.
Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 60
TAURUS: Argument with your spouse is possible in the afternoon. You will have to watch your temper if harmony is desired. Give a little more attention to the creative and spiritual side of your life now.
Tarot message: Over-optimism can lead to mistakes. Lucky colour: Crimson.
Magic number: 30 GEMINI: Be sure to take full advantage of the good opportunities that come your way. No arguments with elders please. You will get what you expect. Your moods can be up and down.
Tarot message: Do not overspend just to impress others. Lucky colour: Purple.
Magic number: 36 CANCER: Keep your spirits up and put forward a cheerful face. Look at the stocks and saving certificates you hold. Creativity shines. Students: enjoy cheerful moments on the campus.
Tarot message: Don't waste an opportunity by being rash or impulsive. Lucky colour: Black.
Magic number: 55 LEO: The card "Two of cups" promises many opportunities on the financial front. If working on a commission basis, you will be able to increase your earnings. Old people will have a comfortable night. Tarot message: You will get the help you need if you ask for it.
Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 32 VIRGO: A tricky day if you are hoping for spectacular results. It will be best to keep new ideas under wraps. Housewives: protect yourself against accidents while cooking. Tarot message: Wait a while; everything will get
sorted out on its own. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 40
LIBRA: A secret meeting with influential people will go off well. Today your boss can promise a salary increase. This bodes well for financial matters and makes it a good day to seek a loan or other financial support.
Tarot message: Be creative. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 52 SCORPIO: "The queen of cups" opens the door for a new
job offer. Avoid making partnership deals. Lovers: a good day for introducing your beloved to your parents.
Tarot message: Leave things
open-ended for best results. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 58 SAGITTARIUS: A fine day for starting something new. Businessmen: you can make a secret deal or alliance that can be very lucrative. Discussion behind closed doors can work out very well. Tarot message: Prepare yourself for a mental battle.
Lucky colour: Sea green. Magic number: 42 CAPRICORN: Your card "Ten of pentacles'' reveals that plans that you have for saving are likely to meet with approval. Be careful, as you are likely to jump the gun and live to regret your actions.
Tarot message: Health of an elderly member at home will need care. Lucky
colour: Deep red. Magic number: 26 AQUARIUS: Your card "The lovers" suggests new attractions are likely to be serious. Do not try to make money the easy way. Romance is highlighted. The second half day favours social work. Tarot message: Open new doors that can lead to a lucrative direction. Lucky colour: Turquoise.
Magic number: 62 PISCES: Do not make snap decisions. Mutually held funds must not be disturbed without your consent. The demands of your ego are not likely to be very strong; therefore you will be more sensitive to the world around you.
Tarot message: Avoid gossip session at work place. Lucky colour: Blue. Magic number: 44
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THE YEAR AHEAD
If your birthday is October 27...
Mars being your ruling planet, you are disciplined, to the point and punctual. Some of you may start an exciting relationship. A proposal will come from a known source and on a silver platter. Letter or mail you wrote recently will get a job done. A close relationship will blossom in an enriching and rewarding way. There could also be more money on the horizon. Pay more attention to your health and general well-being. You will enjoy a great romantic life this year. Positive colours: Red, White, Yellow and Cream. Select days: Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday. Favourable numbers: 3, 6, 9. Charity on birthday: Donate copper vessels, warm clothes, blankets and wheat to the poor.
You share your birthday with Anuradha Paudwal (October 27, 1954), who has been one of the leading playback singers in Bollywood. She has also sung popular bhajans. The negative combination of Rahu-Venus brought a storm in her married life. However, she will continue for a long time in the music world.
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Hollywood star Tom Cruise and director Joseph Kosinski are reportedly in talks to reunite after Oblivion for another film Go Like Hell. The 51-year-old star and the Tron Helmer are currently negotiating with Fox studios for Go Like Hell, which is based on AJ Baime's book by the same name, reported a publication.
Rapper Kanye West claims that becoming a father to North has changed the meaning of his life and given him perspective.
The New Slaves rapper, who got engaged to girlfriend Kim Kardashian this week, said his four-month-old daughter has made him a stronger person and given him a reason to live, reported a website.
Actor Ranbir Kapoor is excited to do a superhero film with director-friend Ayan Mukherjee but clarifies that it is not on the lines of Krrish 3.
Ranbir will play a superhero in the yet-untitled project, making him the next actor after Hrithik Roshan and Shah Rukh Khan to essay the character with superpowers on celluloid.
Gurmeet and Debina, one of the jodis of Nach Baliye 6, were pleasantly surprised when they bumped into Baba Ramdev! The couple was travelling to Khajuraho and Baba Ramdev happened to be on the same flight as them. He gave some very useful health tips to them, which he said will give them an upper hand by improving their performance in the dance reality show.
Popular television show Do Dil Ek Jaan has successfully completed 100 episodes. Having commenced early this June, the television series is already the number one show on Star India's Life OK. To commemorate the occasion, the entire cast and crew along with producers Abhinav Shukla and Saurabh Tewari of Nautanki Films celebrated on the set.
Be it in her personal life or various roles, actress Sukirti Kandpal is known for her dressing sense. She talks to us about her fashion and style statement.
Roller coaster ride
Sonu meets Kapil
Bruna on show
Bipasha’s pearls of wisdom
Gems recommended: Red coral, Yellow sapphire.