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FLASH FORWARD From low tea to distracted dining to ethnic touch, the food and beverage industry is looking ahead to a lot in 2014 Amarjot Kaur One of the very nicest things about life is the way we must regularly stop whatever it is we are doing and devote our attention to eating. - Luciano Pavarotti. Since food keeps evolving with every passing era, Sunny Ghaiee, director of sales and marketing, JW Marriot, Chandigarh, says the prominent trend that emerged in 2012-13 was the increasing number of city hotels and restaurants being rebranded, which assisted the eateries in proclaiming their territory while cutting through the bottlenecks of developing projects. This trend is clearly indicative of a maturing industry. Another trend that is here to stay is the increase in domestic travel and its positive effect on leisure hotel markets. The seasonality of these markets is seen undergoing a change with difference in the demand during peak and lean periods being bridged, owing to a reduced reliance on international tourist arrivals. Midwest movement "We are expecting to see more Midwestern style cooking in this true food movement, as more chefs discover and put their own twists into some traditional food that Mid-westerners have kept secret for all these years," says Chef Pallav of JW Marriot. In fact, chefs are beginning to focus on the ingredients available in the Midwest and doing interesting things with root vegetables, steaks and more. Gaurav of Ten Towns speaks volumes about how he suits the Midwestern food with the Indian palate, "We came up with the Syrian food festival last year and introduced dishes like Gojeh Farangi to the city folks. To make the Midwestern food taste more like the Indian palate, we substitute ingredients like Zatar and Sumac, which are not Indian spices, but they taste Indian," he says. Low tea For those who have more frequent small meals than three heavy meals a day, there is a quick pick-up meal that is called 'low tea'. "Low tea is a light meal or snack, usually served around 4 pm and often shared with guests. This 'extra' meal is considered a follow-up to brunch by some, since teatime recipes are often downsized brunch concepts. "The café buffet trend is certainly catching up with the masses and the reason for it is certainly the growing demand of value for money. We have started with the café buffet meal that starts at Rs 299 and a proper meal for Rs 399," says Gaurav of Ten Towns. Distracted dining Restaurants are beginning to put menu items into forms that accommodate the cell phone obsessed-so you can eat with one hand, while the other holds the phone. Sandwiches, wraps and small bites are all sticking to the menu and growing because they don't require two-fisted dining. Karandeep Singh, the owner of Bistro Flamme Bois and Basil and Beans says, "We have started up with the Rs 99 per product concept in Basil and Bean. Though initially we had a lot of students and youngsters coming up, later a lot of families also started coming up for dining. This concept caters to people of all sections of society and that works fine. Also people are getting diet-conscious as well as price-conscious, so one needs to give them value for money." Ethnic inspired Indian cuisine is under the trends scope. Think curry, coconut, ginger, garlic and more! "Initially, we were finding it a little difficult to stimulate people into eating fine Thai cuisine, which we specialise in. But after we started up with the ethnic Indian platter, the concept picked up. Also, we have started up with an in-house bar concept, where the bartender will be making the drinks according to the customer's choice," says Saurabh Aggarwal, COO, Lemongrass. Craft everything The packaging level is going to move beyond small batch production into something bigger. More interesting packaging is on the horizon. "We are offering many food festivals in the next four to five months. Helps us break the monotony of the menu. I focus on healthy eating," says Manish Pandey from Barbecue Nation. amarjot@tribunemail.com |
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Game on!
If you are looking for any change in Punjabi cinema, as of now we see none. The only change, if it can be termed one, is the title of the movies. Here is one, Game Of Love, a Punjabi film, a thriller that will change the game in Punjabi cinema!
Directed by Goppy Dhillon, the movie has an ensemble star cast and will be shot extensively in Himachal Pradesh, Chandigarh and Punjab. Goppy Dhillon, who has earlier directed Punjabi music videos, opens his innings here with Game Of Love. He has written the screenplay of the film and will be acting in it as well. "It is a thriller that will be treated in a professional manner. Goppy is hopeful that the subject will appeal to the audience." The movie, a wholesome entertainment, has a punch of comedy as well. "It is difficult to approach comedians these days, our film has comedy but it is not useless. It is a sensible comedy." The shooting of the film starts on January 11 and it will be released in June. The movie is expected to be made at a budget of Rs one-and-a-half crore. It stars Money Boparai and Jazz Kaur, among others. Singer Feroze Khan makes a special appearance in this film. jasmine@tribunemail.com
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Casually yours
These days with trendy clothes so easily available off the shelf, we can spot so many well-turned persons on the street but only some get the second glances. Dabbling in a combo of fashion and interior designing, Gagandeep Singh wants to be his own designer. Your sense of style… Well turned out casual formals really impress me. Even the judicious use of colours in a contrast denote a sense of style. Latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories… A Netaji type jacket from Jack and Jones. Brand crazy or street pick-up? Mostly I like to stick to brands. Who would be your style icon? Ranbir Kapoor should fit the slot for me. Who do you think is the worst dressed celebrity? Surprisingly it is Aamir Khan! Which look would your prefer - sporty, chic or glamorous? Glam would be proper. One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension? I will never wear baggy clothes even if those are in fashion! Your take on accessories? Only a classic watch. No chains and bracelets for me. Given a choice which designer would you like to be dressed by? Oh! I would always like to be my own designer What gives you a high on the confidence level? When I look different and unique and get compliments for it - good or bad--I feel more confident of myself. — As told to Poonam Bindra |
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Chilling point
Dr Vikas Sharma A lot of people in the region tend to shiver as the cold months of January and February arrive. This is because they have the tendency to develop the cold pain of chilblain in these months which affects their lifestyle. Exposure to cold water sometimes seems to play a triggering role. What causes chilblains? Chilblains occur from the exposure to cold temperatures followed by rapid re-warming. This results due to blood vessel shut-down. They occur several hours after exposure to the cold. Cold causes constriction of the small arteries and veins in the skin and quick or extreme dilation of blood vessels from rapid re-warming causing leakage of fluid from the blood vessels into the surrounding tissues, resulting in the symptoms of chilblains--painful inflammation, swelling and itching, red patches, ulcers or blisters on the affected areas of skin. Contributing factors A familial tendency Peripheral vascular disease due to diabetes, smoking, hyperlipidaemia Low body weight, or poor nutrition e.g. anorexia nervosa Hormonal changes. Chilblains can improve during pregnancy It is very important to rule out connective tissue disease. Clinically, patients present with recurrent painful, tender, erythematous-violaceous plaques on the distal extremities, especially the fingers and the toes. Pernio usually involves the hands, feet, ears and face in children, the legs and toes in women and the hands and fingers in men. Lesions are more common on the back and sides of the fingers and toes. Other exposed areas, such as the nose, face and ears, may also be affected. Heels, lower legs, fatty lumps, wrists in babies and thighs in horse riders are the other affected sites. Lesions may be accompanied by itching and a burning sensation and may be complicated by blister formation or ulceration. Horse-riding enthusiasts who wear tight clothing in cold weather may develop similar lesions on the thighs. Stop it Some people are more likely than others to experience chilblains, including those with poor circulation, high bad cholesterol, low blood pressure or people who are very sensitive to temperature changes. It is of paramount importance for people who are susceptible to chilblains, that when venturing out into cold weather, dress warmly and cover all exposed skin, especially the hands, feet, earlobes and nose that are especially vulnerable to chilblains. Keeping both the affected extremities and the core body dry and warm are essential in preventing pernio. Patients should wear thick socks and shoes. For perniosis of the hands, gloves are recommended. Clothing should be loose- fitting. Feet should always be kept dry as moisture enhances cold injury. Keep your surroundings comfortably warm. After cold exposure, re-warm skin gradually to avoid causing or worsening chilblains as rapid re-warming can be extremely harmful; do not use hot water bottles or sit too close to a heater, fire or other heat source. Exercise is a good way of minimising chilblains because it keeps the blood pumping around the body, but there are also certain nutritional strategies that can help to improve the circulation. Diet should be rich in such antioxidants as vitamins C, D and E, beta carotene and selenium by eating plenty of fresh fruits (blueberries, kiwi and citrus fruits). Because nicotine damages the lining of the blood vessels and decreases blood flow, thus further affecting poor circulation or chilblains - so for smokers another reason for giving up the bad habit! (Dr Sharma is a Chandigarh-based dermatologist) |
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Say it all
Sung by American duo, A Great Big World, the song, Say Something, was originally released in February, 2011 on band member Ian Axel's solo album called This Is the New Year, but went largely unnoticed until it was released as the second single on the band's debut studio album, Is There Anybody Out There? (2014). The single was re-recorded to feature vocals from American recording artist Christina Aguilera. Say Something is an Indie pop piano ballad about a break up, where the singers express humility, sadness and regret. The song received critical acclaim, being praised for its powerful lyrics, the emotional production and Aguilera's delicate vocals added to the mix. The song reached the top five on the US Billboard Hot 100 and Canadian Hot 100. A Great Big World and Aguilera also performed the song at the American Music Awards of 2013. Sound of music I think the best thing about the song is the way it adds up to its music credit with the sound of piano and Christina's voice, which really sounds very nice. Also, the lyrics of the song are very intense.Amarinder Singh, a commerce graduate Touchy note When I heard the song for the first time, I was really touched and more than that, the music of this track is very compelling. It's an intense song, and it keeps running in my mind all the time. Emotional ballad It is a relief to have Christina singing something that is not pop and actually being good at it? I like the way the lyrics, music and the sound blend in so beautifully. It is an emotional ballad and it sounds pretty good. Dev, student Ashish Nag, bank employee (As told to Amarjot Kaur) |
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Celebration time
As many as 200 people from Chandigarh, Panchkula and Mohali celebrated their birthday with Nikhil Mittal, founder and head chef of Nik Baker's at Nik Baker's Sector 35 outlet, recently. This event holds special significance for Nikhil who gets to interact with Nik Baker's loyal customers.
A large cake was especially made for the occasion. People who share their birthday with Nikhil on January 6 were invited to register and participate. The first 100 were given a 1 kg cake free (Chocolate truffle or Pineapple cake) and the rest were given fifty per cent off. — TNS
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Formally yours
This season John Players creates yet another style statement in its Autumn-Winter 2013 formal wear collection. It brings a new array of chiseled tailoring, contemporary knits and elegant patterns, infusing effortless grace and smartness in the formal and festive wardrobe of men.
The newest collection features a mix of classic patterns and contemporary checks in cotton fabric. Safari blazers along with double breasted options in graceful colours like blue, grey and purple will set your mood right for the winter. The collection is priced at Rs 799 onwards and is available at all flagship stores countrywide. — TNS
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Fudge and frolic!
Kandla Nijhowne When the winds get bitingly chilly and the days are dull and gray, it lifts one's spirits to chomp on comfort foods along with a steaming cuppa. I'm constantly scavenging for something that satisfies the tummy and tongue combined! A piece of fudge, creamy, yet crunchy is the West's answer to our chikki and gajjak. Homemade anything has the advantage that its hygiene levels are guaranteed and that you can tweak it to your personal preference. Keep the patience quantum high, because the constant stirring is important. On a high heat, the cocoa will scorch and turn bitter. This recipe uses condensed milk so it already cuts down the cooking and thickening time. Let me confess to my readers, I gobble down fudge with zero-guilt pangs. The weather is beastly cold, so obviously the body needs extra calories from within (read fudge) to keep warm! Method Lay out a piece of greaseproof paper onto a wide tray or thaali. Allow it to overhang a bit at the edges to simplify removing fudge later. Lightly grease it with butter. Use a heavy pan, heat the milk and sugar until the latter dissolves. Add cocoa, condensed milk, butter, honey and coffee if using. Cook on low heat till thickened. To check if the mixture is ready, drop a half a spoonful of the mixture into a glass of cold water. If it chills into a ball, it's ready. If it dissolves and breaks up, it needs more heat, stirring and patience! When the 'soft-ball' stage, as it is called is reached, add vanilla and nuts. Stir to combine, then spread the mix on to the waiting tray. Even out the surface with a spatula or blunt knife. When cooled, cut into squares and push into the eager, awaiting mouths, including your own! Note: You may use almonds, raisins or cashew nuts instead of walnuts. If your family doesn't like nuts, or if you want to make a lighter fudge, replace nuts with rice crispies. For added kiddy-appeal, crush some sugar sweets and scatter on the surface of the fudge before it has cooled completely. (Nijhowne is a Chandigarh-based culinary expert) Brazilian fudge Ingredients ½ tin condensed milk ½ cup milk 3 tbsp cocoa powder 175 gm grain sugar 60 gm butter 2 tbsp honey 50-70 gm chopped walnuts ½ tsp vanilla 1 tsp coffee powder (optional) |
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Creative reward
The Punjab Lalit Kala Akademi had invited entries for its annual art exhibition in the professional and student categories. As many as 291 works were received - 170 in the professional category and 121 in the student category.
Works of the following artists have been selected for awards:
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Salman sets the bar
Salman Khan is literally magnanimous. The promotional budget for Jai Ho was Rs 16 crore but Salman Khan suggested otherwise. He said that the budget should be no more than Rs six crore and the rest of the money should be distributed among the poor and the needy during city tours. He also asked cinemas to ensure that ticket prices do not skyrocket. How amazing is he!
Looking ahead
The 59th Filmfare awards this year will offer a glimpse into the future of Bollywood in a humorous way. "Every year we try to do better. This year we will take a light-hearted peek into the future of Bollywood; may be of 10-20 years. The awards this year are also about commemorating and paying tribute to unforgettable stars, films, songs, dialogue and celluloid memories," said Tarun Rai, CEO, Worldwide Media, publishers of Filmfare magazine. In tune with the futuristic theme, the award trophy has been digitally sculpted in 3-D. The trophy was unveiled by actress Priyanka Chopra who, along with Ranbir Kapoor, will be hosting the ceremony to be held on January 24 at Yash Raj Studios. — PTI
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A dream launch pad
There is a long list of people that Salman Khan has extended his helping hand to and help establish themselves in the film industry. The most talked about, of them, being Katrina Kaif.
During her initial years in the industry, she owes it all to the Khan for his support, connections, recommendations and advice. Just like that, this time it is Daisy Shah, the leading lady of his upcoming film Jai Ho. She will be groomed by the star Khan. Daisy Shah, who has shared screen space with Salman earlier as well but as a background dancer in his films, will be sharing screen space with him yet again but this time by starring opposite him. Just like Katrina Kaif did not have a filmy family background, even Daisy Shah does not have a filmy background. Salman has played an important role in shaping or aiding the careers of Arjun Kapoor, Hrithik Roshan, Sonakshi Sinha, Govinda, Zarine Khan, and others. The spokesperson of Jai Ho confirms the news and adds, "Daisy does not have a film background. Salman is launching her so he is also going to help her groom in the industry."
The hottest vegetarian
A poll conducted by PETA India (People for Ethical Treatment of Animals) has voted, Commando and Force actor, Vidyut Jamwal as the hottest vegetarian celebrity of the year. He is known for his fit physique and martial arts skills and has been a vegetarian for 11 years now. Each year, PETA conducts this survey. Last year, as many as hundred celebrities were nominated but only one earned the title of sexiest vegetarian celebrity of 2013. It was Kristen Bell. The winner was chosen based on several factors, including the vote count.
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Sonam, Anil make their first appearance
Sonam Kapoor, who recently returned to Mumbai from her vacations with friends in Goa, shot with father Anil Kapoor for Karan Johar's popular chat show Koffee With Karan.
This is probably the first time the two will be seen together on a television show. Sonam could not be a part of his father's debut TV show 24 due to a busy movie schedule. It is said that she will make an appearance in the next series. But for now, she will be having Koffee with her father on Koffee With Karan. Let's hope the father-daughter duo will spill some beans!
And life goes on
Hrithik Roshan is back to work post his separation from Susanne Roshan. He recently shot for a suiting brand, which he endorses and also launched a jewellery store in New Mumbai. He will resume shooting for Bang Bang this month.
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Madhuri’s all praise
Madhuri Dixit is excited about her new avatar in Dedh Ishqiya and she is all praise for Ishqiya's Vidya Balan. She said that she has always openly talked about Vidya's talent and loved her work in Parineeta, Ishqiya, The Dirty Picture and Kahaani.
When you say nothing at all
Huma Qureshi is keeping absolutely quiet when asked whether she is the reason behind Anurag Kashyap's split from actress Kalki Koechlin. She says that just because people have written about it, it doesn't become true.
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More than ‘just friends’
Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone may deny their romance but that does not change the circumstantial connotations. They both holidayed in New York together while Deepika's family stayed back in Maldives.
Weather plays spoilsportKatrina Kaif and Ranbir Kapoor were vacationing in New York and Katrina Kaif fell sick due to the intense cold in NYC. She stayed back in London to recuperate with her family, during the stopover, and will return to Mumbai later this week.
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High five
It is heartening to see shows survive a year and there are a few who have run successfully for five years. We take a look at them
Comic strain
Big show
Charming still
Strong hold
Thrilling action
Salman shines |
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Time for resolutions
With Rajan Shahi's new show Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya going on air on Zee TV, the cast seems quite excited to know the response of the viewers as well as the critics. Their collective energy and dedication has helped them create a bank of eight episodes already! Talking about their New Year resolutions, all of them in unison speak about how they are giving their best shot and trying hard to make this new show a huge success.
Talking about their New Year resolutions, the female protagonist of the show, Kaanchi Singh aka Avni said, "I mostly make a New Year resolution only about my habits or my looks, but this year I have promised myself to give the best to my debut on small screen with Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya." Riding on the same thought, Mishkat Verma aka Raj said, "Rajan Shahi based his trust on me before anybody else and my resolution is to do a good job as the lead actor." Reena Kapur aka Bhavna added, "I am glad to be making a comeback with a show as grand as this. My New Year resolution is to make this show a huge success." Waseem Mushtaq aka Akshat is also proud to be a part of the show, "I am glad to be a part of a show with such an amazing star cast. My New Year resolution is to make it a success." — HRM
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Astro turf
ARIES: Get real about your daily routine and make it a happy one. Meetings and negotiation with potential contractors, employers, employees and consultants can be productive.
Tarot message: You find within yourself a fountainhead of will-power. Lucky colour: Orange.
Magic number: 47
TAURUS: Your card is 'the Magician', so you are not likely to be taken unaware by surprise happenings. It is probably a better period for working in familiar surroundings than for
travelling. Tarot message: At work, don't hold back anything from your employer.
Lucky colour: Metallic-grey. Magic number: 42 GEMINI: Drop whatever you had scheduled and dedicate yourself to the one you love most. Answer business correspondence and pay bills that have been long outstanding.
Tarot message: Share responsibility with others before continuing. Lucky
colour: Pink. Magic number: 35 CANCER: If you have recently taken on a new job or contract, make sure to negotiate and organise all the specific terms. A greater workload is likely to be placed upon your shoulders.
Tarot message: Don't take impulsive decisions in personal relationship. Lucky colour: Ebony.
Magic number: 40 LEO: Today is the test of knowhow and competence in your profession. Your performance is on public view and those in charge will be carefully watching your every move.
Tarot message: You gain by being practical; don't be emotional. Lucky
colour: Saffron. Magic number: 32 VIRGO: Sudden encounters with extraordinary characters leave a mark on your life. You are unlikely to forget such incidents quickly. Work and domestic duty follow a familiar pattern today.
Tarot message: Follow the practical path. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 25
LIBRA: Your lover will be insistent for your amorous attention. Employment affairs will be somewhat unsettled especially in the morning. Factory workers: expect no co-operation from labour. Tarot message: Do what is right and watch your best interests.
Lucky colour: Sky-blue. Magic number: 28 SCORPIO: Cash should be flowing into your account today. This abundance is not due to luck but all because of your hardwork. Long-term projects and contracts will be paying off handsomely.
Tarot message: Focus on professional changes. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 32 SAGITTARIUS: The run of good business continues. It is a case of making hay while the sun shines. Once you have decided on a certain course of action, stick to your guns.
Tarot message: Push to succeed and your efforts will pay off. Lucky
colour: Pink. Magic number: 40 CAPRICORN: Turn on the charm and the world's your oyster. Be sure to take full advantage of the good opportunity that comes your way. Singles are in luck and those with partners are back in the saddle. Tarot message: By applying yourself, you can build great success.
Lucky colour: Peacock-green. Magic number: 51 AQUARIUS: This is a day for workaholics, which is great if you love your job and want to establish a powerful momentum of productivity. Income can dwindle and expenses rise.
Tarot message: Focus on the better to mitigate the bitter. Lucky colour: Forest-green.
Magic number: 65 PISCES: Make efforts to apply for a job you really want. Do not neglect the daily grind by focusing all your attention on your partner. Do not let too many people know what you are planning.
Tarot message: Try to put your terms and conditions in writing. Lucky
colour: Peach. Magic number: 61
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The year ahead
If your birthday is January 8...
The year 2014 is going to bring a whole bunch of changes in your life and work. November will be a time when lack of boundaries, imagination, creativity and a desire to experience the pleasures of the moment can get the best of you. Positive colours: Black, Chocolate. Select days: Sunday, Tuesday. Favourable numbers: 1, 4, 9. Gems recommended: Blue Sapphire, Diamond and Emerald. Charity on birthday: Donate green fodder to cows; copper utensils to the needy or at any religious place today.
You share your birthday with Sagarika Ghatge (January 8, 1982, Kolhapur), daughter of Vijayendra Ghatge. She played the role of Preeti Sabharwal, a member of the Indian women's national hockey team, in the 2007 hit film Chak De India. She has also done photoshoots for various fashion magazines.
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