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A single tune
Remember Alisha’s Made in India, Anaida’s Dil Bole Oova Oova, Sonu Nigam’s Deewana, Lucky Ali’s O Sanam, Instant Karma’s Dil Kya Kare and Silk Route’s Dooba Dooba Rehta Hoon? Where has independent music vanished? Gobbled up, weighed down, stashed away and buried by Bollywood?
The 1990's were considered the ‘golden period’ for independent music in India; singers Rabbi Shergill and Kailash Kher have been the only ones who have carried the baton forward to an extent. Says singer Rabbi Shergill, “Big business (read Bollywood) has taken over cultural resources. While earlier independent musicians would just submit their songs to the channels, today, particularly after 2007, music channels place emphasis on air time and sell it to the highest bidder. Now it has become very difficult for most of the independent musicians.” "My heart just goes out to a kid who has spent ten years learning music, but he cannot get to the next level or the national platform. Things won't change until technologies for dissemination of cultural products do not come within the reach of independent musicians," he adds. Much has to be blamed on the market as well. “Market dynamics have changed as sales of CDs have stopped. Online media are proliferating, so companies also do not invest much time in promoting independent music," opines singer Labh Janjua. Singer-actor Sarbjit Cheema reasons that piracy and internet downloads has hurt the music industry in a big manner, therefore independent music has also suffered. Ravinder Ranguwal, director of many music videos, believes that it has become very difficult for singers to promote themselves on national channels, as these have gone out of reach for them. “It is because of the predominance of Bollywood; potential talent is absorbed by the film industry. Another big factor has also been piracy and CDs going out of fashion,” he says. Of late, there has been a change in the Punjabi music industry as well, as some singers have turned to acting and shifted their focus from independent tracks. “The growing film industry has made a difference as only six or seven music albums were released last year. However, people wait for independent music albums, so I am doing that as well,” he says. “There might be some change in the offing, as a channel by MTV, dedicated to independent music, is about to be launched,” says Rabbi. In stark contrast, independent musicians are not doing too badly in Punjab. Is this because of the talent here or the audience is more receptive? Singer-actor Gippy Grewal believes that it is a combination of both. “Not only are the musicians creative, the audiences have also always supported Punjabi music.” gurvinder@tribunemail.com
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On a different pitch
Facing the camera after spending twelve years in the public eye as a cricketer and doing a reality show somewhere in-between, comes as naturally to him as spin bowling. Yet, you can sense the unease; its writ large on his face — there is something bothering him and that he is unsettled. “How difficult life can be; we cry about our mole hill of problems while people suffer from real issues,” says Harbhajan Singh, in Chandigarh for the shoot of Colors new reality show — Mission Sapne.
He switches back to his usual self after living the life of Ram Avtaar, a vendor, for a day, a task he has to perform being part of the show. The show required him to sell biscuits, exactly how Ram Avtaar does from morning to evening. The money that he will make, plus some additional amount, will financially aid Avtaar, who has to undergo a heart bypass surgery. Besides his wife suffers from cancer and he has to feed four children. “I agreed to be part of the reality show because this is the only way I can help a needy. Except for financial help, there isn’t much we can do about it.” When it comes to being a part of showbiz, the count now stands at two reality shows and a couple of films, including his recent outing in Bhaji in Problem. “And that is how I plan to let it be. I don’t want to do any reality shows, Punjabi or Hindi films. I have got just four or five more years of cricket in me, which I want to utilise.” Not that offers are not coming his way — from Punjabi to Hindi films, a lot of people have approached him, but he denies it each time. “It’s cricket that has changed my life for good. I enjoy IPL as well, but international cricket is what my aim still is.” While it’s the glitz and glamour he wants to stay away from, when it comes to generating sources of income he is open to several options. Like he has plans to start his own clothing label, B-3, where B obviously stands for Bhaji and 3 is his lucky number! He already has a sports label and provides for the sportswear of Punjab as well as Railway’s Ranji Trophy Teams. B-3, however, will be casual wear that he will soon launch. “Why should I promote other labels when I can have my own in the market? I am just using my name appropriately; I have earned it after a lot of hard work.” The same popularity is what makes him a public figure and make his personal life almost a public affair. “I don’t go around justifying my life or whom I am dating. I don’t seek details of people around me and that’s what I expect from them.” That is something not possible, so in that case, Harbhajan prefers to stay in his own small world and play cricket. That’s his real Mission Sapne! Keep the faith
It’s faith in god and his own ability that keeps him going. Harbhajan says the word ‘faith’ reminds him that he is destined to achieve a lot — the reason why he has faith tattooed on his hand. “It’s my faith in myself that I will be a part of cricket for some more years. Although I am not a part of the team as of now, I will come back.” Mission Sapne, the new reality show of Colors is about celebrities from Bollywood, television, sports and music world, living the life of a common man for a day. Salman Khan and Varun Dhawan are some of the prominent names to feature in the reality series. They will be seen driving a taxi, selling fish or working as a salesman.
ashima@tribunemail.com
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A visionary approach
Everyone has the right to life. Why should the visually impaired be denied the thrill of a car ride? Bringing this joy is Round Table India Organisation which is organising the Blind Man Car Rally on February 2.
The first edition of this unique event had enthusiastic visually impaired navigators reading directions on Braille and equally enthusiastic volunteer drivers who drove around Chandigarh. "I was surprised to see the Institute of Blind children catching on the directions so quickly. In fact, they can read Braille faster than any of us would read a page," says Amit Jain, chairperson, Chandigarh Round Table. Round Table as an organisation that takes up causes and helps at grassroots levels directly. From building classrooms, providing water filter to a home for destitute in Sector 43; onions and potatoes to Old Age Home-15 when the prices were soaring, bags for school-goers to dental camps for village children, this organisation believes in action. "I was shocked when I realised that as much as 78 per cent of what I was donating to charity regularly was their administration cost. At Round Table, I know where I am putting my money and time," shares Amit. Joining him were Deepak Gupta and Atul Luther, all three of them businessmen who have taken out time not only be part of the upcoming rally but various initiatives. This unique car rally at Chandigarh is part of Round Table India's national event and is being done at 20 centres. Tablers (members of RTI) take pride in giving back to society. "It's not just the self satisfaction that we get but also have learnt better management of time, balancing business with social commitments and more," says Atul. Deepak loves the RTI for it gives not only him but also his family a chance to experience the joy of sharing life with underprivileged, but also grow in personal life. RTI is waiting for volunteers to enrol for the event so that coming February 2, more and more visually impaired children get a chance to try their navigation skills on roads! mona@tribunemail.com
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Silk route
The exhibition will showcase a trendy range which is being promoted by the Central Silk Board. All varieties of pure silk from across the country are available under one roof at reasonable rates. The exhibition will offer Benarasi brocades from Varanasi, the paithani designs from Yeola and Paithan, tie and dye weaves of Pochampally and Sonpur, the elaborate temples designs from Kancheepuram and Dharmavaramand the golden Muga silks of Assam. On till January 29. —
TNS
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Fiery taste
A barbecue is as close as you can get to playing with fire, some smoke and not getting burnt. Throw in some food, call friends over and it's the perfect way to celebrate the winter chill with sizzling platters.
There is an unusual activity at Barbeque Nation, as the chefs are gearing up for a live demonstration on how to barbeque and getting ready for an array of beginner's questions. "The best thing about barbecue is that it is one of the oldest methods of cooking. It is also the healthiest way you get your food as it lets the natural juices of the meat flow," shares Chef Shamsher Gill, the executive chef. While the method of cooking immediately conjures up the image of various meats, there's enough to make it favourable among vegetarians. Shares Chef Taranjot Singh, "Apart from the regular mushrooms, cheese and pineapple, there's guava, jackfruit, broccoli, zucchini and cucumber that adapts well to barbecue." Traditionally speaking, a barbecue is a slower method of cooking where the heat is imparted indirectly through the smoke of a wood fuelled fire. While a charcoal barbeque might be complicated to maintain, but it lends a smoky flavour every time you grill and the fact that it has the feel of some real fire. The practice might be getting popular by the day, nevertheless there's a lot that needs to be put in place for a perfect experience. Shares Shamsher Gill, "First thing is that charcoal should be properly burnt. The entire process needs patience. Only properly burnt charcoal lends the smoky flavour to the food. The marination too should be done properly. While red meat would need a lot of time, chicken is ready in two hours…A fruit doesn't require beyond 15 to 20 minutes."
Do it like a pro
With the sauces in place and cutlery arranged, just when you are ready to grill like a pro, a couple of commandments for the perfect barbecue experience.
manpriya@tribunemail.com
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They mean business It was an afternoon session of exchange of ideas, solutions and challenges at Mont Blanc in Park Plaza when the Fab Forum from the Fabwomen foundation held a meet for the businesswomen of the town. Anchored and guided by Neha Singh, the editor of UK-based Fab Magazine and Nimrit Gill, the India representative, the participants had an intriguing blend of seasoned business women like Ripi Chhatwal from the beauty business and Vijay Dhingra from the house of cosmetics, Swastika from Cake Square, Mukata Sharma of the Idea showroom and Ballie Kler, a Nursery school owner and Sonu Gandhi, from a fashion house. Fab Women Foundation creates a support system for women entrepreneurs, which promotes the 'business' mindset. "We work to build sustainable business for women. It is our firm belief that challenging and changing existing mindset will increase individual success and collective influence of women in society," says Neha Singh. This open forum will also help women-led enterprises, female leaders in the public sector and in the corporate sectors. For the enterprising ladies this 'hand holding' initiative by the Fab Forum was rather intriguing and beneficial too. Harpreet from Ficsher's Furniture said, "Such forums can be useful for helping each other." Fab has also partnered with Reliance Capital as well as the National Entrepreneur Network and government agencies like MSME to help women to sustain and scale their business. Keeping the number of participants at thirty, Fab has held forums in 12 cities across India and two more are on the anvil. "We hope to make it a regular initiative," said Nimrit Gill.
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Guess work
Priyanka Chopra was recently in London where she interacted with her fans at the Guess store on Regent Street. At the event, Guess Loves Priyanka, the international recording artist, actress and global face of Guess, gave fans a sneak preview of her upcoming solo single I Can't Make You Love Me. In an exclusive chat, she speaks about her single, being a Guess girl and more… Getting betterI don't know how it's going to work. I like to do new things and I am very proud to be a Guess girl. Guess has always had these beautiful blonde women as their brand ambassadors and I am really happy that I am the first Guess girl of a different ethnicity. I always like to do things better than what I have done before. That is what I am aiming at. I just really enjoyed shooting the campaign which was shot by Bryan Adams. I haven't actually seen all these magazines featuring the campaign but of course, it feels nice. I don't know what Guess is planning for the UK market in terms of advertising as only they can answer that. Solo show
The single is called I Can't Make You Love Me. It's my first solo single and a cover of the same song by Bonnie Raitt. She is one of the people why I became a singer. My cover is really different because the original is a ballad and we have used dance music for my version of the song. When we were deciding on my next single, I really wanted I Can't Make You Love Me to be my first solo single. Screen presence
I recently finished filming the video of the song in LA which is directed by Jeff Nicholas and Jonathan Craven who recently directed Rihanna's music video What Now. They were amazing to work with. Exciting moments
I am really excited about hosting Filmfare with Ranbir Kapoor. There is a lot of pressure because high standards have been set by previous hosts like Shah Rukh, Saif, Ranbir and Imran. It's both scary and exciting for me. But the real fun lies in doing something that is challenging. So that's why I'm doing it.
Varun sells vegetables
Actor Varun Dhawan, who is all to set to launch the trailer of his next film Main Tera Hero, worked as a vegetable vendor in Mumbai's Crawford market. He also tweeted about the experience and wrote: "No no, it's just a thought guys I became a patiwala for a day and worked in Crawford market. It really moved me." "Forget movies and heroes the real heroes are these people who toil everyday to earn their bread and butter. It's really really difficult. I know I'm being too preachy so I'm going to shut up," he added.
Red alert
Kangna Ranaut visited red light areas in Amsterdam where she was shooting for Queen. She made friends there and they even knew who she was.
Canada visit
Emraan Hashmi has flown to Canada with his wife Parveen and son Ayan for further treatment for his son's tumour. He will be there for two to three weeks.
Sallu’s new muse
Salman Khan has a growing fondness for Jacqueline Fernandez and the two have been bonding over work outs and meals, even beyond the sets. Now, her career will go places as she has become the apple of his eye.
Gimme some action!
Abhishek Bachchan wants to act in an action film directed by ad-filmmaker Amit Sharma who has directed him in Idea commercials. He will produce the film under his home banner because few people want to risk working with Abhishek in a solo-hero film.
Damsel in dilemma
Sonakshi Sinha's films will clash once again at the box office on June 6. The films are Action Jackson with Ajay Devgn and Holiday with Akshay Kumar. Which film will she choose to promote this time or will she be able to shift the date again? We wonder!
Lost and not found
The making of Gunday has been lost forever due to technical glitches and a chunk of the material is corrupt and cannot be viewed. The crew and cast held the making of video memories quite close to their hearts.
O teri! They have it
The makers of O Teri!, directed by Atul Agnihotri and Salman Khan, unanimously decided to use O Teri! as the film's title. Salman joked that they would have to take permission from Aamir Khan who uses this phrase all the time, in movies and in media events.
Love in vanity van
Lovebirds Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh were caught red handed recently inside Deepika's vanity van. The rumoured couple recently spent some quality time with each other in Deepika Padukone's vanity van. Ranveer who publicly expressed his feeling for Deepika was spotted entering his ladylove's vanity van at a recent award show held in Mumbai. Strangely, when the Gunday actor came out of the vanity van after 45 minutes, his costume was changed. Later, at the awards function when Deepika was asked to comment about her relationship with Ranveer, the actress denied dating the Ram Leela actor. She said, "Just because I am seen with someone doesn't mean I am in a relationship with him." Well, as you say Dips!
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Twice the mystery
The CID cops are ready to take you through a thrilling adrenaline-filled twin series set against the backdrop of the International Kite Flying Festival in Ahmedabad. Whether it is the Haute Couture lanes of Paris or the intricate jungles of Maharashtra or the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk, ACP Pradyuman and his team of cops have gone everywhere to hunt the criminals in their pledge to eradicate crime. Now, CID cops Shivaji Satam, Daya and Abhijeet with their team have landed all the way in the Kite Capital of Gujarat to shoot for a special Makar Sakranti twin episode series in Ahmedabad. The episode will feature a murder mystery woven around the backdrop of the famous International Kite flying festival in Ahmedabad. CID cops reach Ahmedabad in search of their missing officer Shreya and in this search, face another murder case. Ahmedabad police and the people support them in solving the case. To find out, tune into Makar Sankranti special episode of CID on January 24-25, 2014, at 10:00 pm only on Sony Entertainment Television.
Tanaaz is back
Tanaaz Irani will soon be seen on Deven Bhojani's comedy show Bh Se Bhade. She has been away from TV for a while and is excited to be back on the small screen. Tanaaz’s kids and her dance school in Dubai kept her busy all this while.
Bhagyashree on telly
If things fall into place, the Maine Pyaar Kiya heroine Bhagyashree might be seen on TV. She has been approached for 24 Frames next show on Star Plus, which is based on the hit international show Missing. Bhagyashree has been seen on TV in various shows
earlier.
Mohit’s SRK moment
Mohit Raina aka Mahadev of Nikhil Sinha's mythological show had his ‘first time’ experience of sharing the stage with the Baadshah of Romance, Shah Rukh Khan, at the Life Ok Screen Awards. Mohit was left awestruck by SRK's dedication and stage presence. Praising Shah Rukh, Mohit quipped, "It's an enriching experience to watch him work; he is the most perfect performer that I have witnessed till date. Shah Rukh Khan left no stone unturned in preparing for the show." When asked if he would like to try hosting in the future, he said, "Of course, it's very interesting and challenging to host a live event since there are no retakes; it takes a lot of time to rehearse for hosting. I don't have that kind of time right now due to Mahadev's hectic schedule, but I would do it sometime." — HRM
Replacement theory
After rumours that Sohail Khan might replace Arbaaz Khan on Comedy Circus, now buzz is that Shekhar Suman might step in. This decision came about after Sohail apparently went to Kapil Sharma’s show Comedy Nights with Kapil to promote his film Jai Ho, starring Salman Khan and Daisy Shah.
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Republic Day fervour
Patriotism will be the flavour in the upcoming episode of Boogie Woogie, as the contestants will be seen celebrating Republic Day on the show. The little dancing stars will be seen paying tribute to their real-life heroes and role models.
The special episode will showcase a variety of dancing styles, from Malkhamb to lavni to Western to contemporary. Harmi will be seen dedicating her performance to Lord Krishna while Mohammed Mumtaz will perform on Aainak pehne, dedicating his act to the father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi. Aryan’s performance on the song Bande Hain hum uske dedicated to the Indian soldiers will earn appreciation while Smrity’s act dedicated to her father will make everyone emotional. Sagar’s mother will be so moved by his performance that she will be seen joining her son on stage. This heart-warming moment will leave all the judges and hosts teary-eyed. Watch Republic Day special episode on January 25, 2014, at 8:30 pm only on Sony Entertainment Television.
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The year ahead
If your birthday is January 24...
On this birthday, look back at your past; you can even be inspired to return to a hobby you abandoned as a child. Things are good and getting better in 2014. Be willing to sacrifice your pride or take a risk in order to escape unhealthy circumstances. Until you see with your heart and assert your independence, you will remain burdened by your own unrealistic expectations. Women born after 1970 will participate in a cultural programme or organise a social function before April. You need to be self-reliant at work instead of depending on those who seem to have been making false promises to get a favour or financial assistance. Positive colours: White, Sea Green, Cream, Light Blue. Select days: Friday, Thursday & Tuesday. Favourable numbers: 5, 6. Gems recommended: Diamond, Quartz. Charity on birthday: Donate utensils to the needy or at any religious place today.
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Astro turf
ARIES: Ask yourself if it is time to give up for good or just give in for a few hours. Heartaches of the past are forgotten. You can expect visitors or a communication from overseas to be positive. TAURUS:Close associates can turn to you for help and though this will add to your workload, helping them will increase your goodwill. This is a good time to start a self-improvement project. GEMINI: A residence or office can be redecorated to infuse fresh energy. Try and study all aspects of the situation before making any commitments. Accidental benefits are indicated. CANCER: Be clear and precise in your interactions with colleagues as this will enable you save time. Friends or family members will be depending on you for emotional support. LEO: Prioritise play and personal time. Planetary energies draw your attention to family and home. A gift or a surprise awaits you in the evening. Share market and speculations should be avoided today. VIRGO:Your life is busy and tiring. It's best to go beyond ego and ask for help as well as support. Your efforts will put you in line for satisfying gains. A short romantic holiday will add excitement. LIBRA: Thoroughly study matters before signing any contracts today. Unexpected distraction will keep the work lagging for accountants. Try not to lose your confidence. SCORPIO: It is a great day for sportspersons. A family gathering at your house will bring bliss and overall joy. You manage business affairs with skill and capability. SAGITTARIUS: A journey for business or pilgrimage is on the cards. Listen to your intuition for the right answer. Mental flexibility is surely a good idea for you. It can be an effort for you to comply, but is worth all-round happiness. CAPRICORN: You are on the edge of something grand and can feel it right to the bottom of your feet. On the home front, there will be the impact of all this on your family life. AQUARIUS: Make a firm resolve to let go and roll with the flow. Take a trip and connect with interesting new people. Forget routine chores and duck out if you feel an order is coming your way. PISCES: Just try to have fun without pinning close mates down. The more you give, the more everyone will respect you. A healthy attitude will take you farther than over-confidence. |
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NEW RELEASE
Film: Jai Ho Producers: Sohail Khan, Eros International
Director: Sohail Khan
Salman Khan-starrer Jai Ho, which is releasing today, is a remake of the hit South Indian film Stalin (2006). This movie has been produced by Eros International and Sohail Khan, who has also directed this film. It is being touted as one of Salman’s most anticipated films, where he plays a crusader. His mantra is very simple - help as many people. Jai Ho also stars newbie Daisy Shah, Tabu, Om Puri, Danny Denzongpa, Nadira Babbar. Genelia Deshmukh appears in a cameo. Big Boss 6 hottie Sana Khan also stars in this movie. With Sohail Khan helming this project, much is being expected from the movie. — Dharam Pal
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Silk Mark Vanya Silk Expo 2014 by Silk Mark Organisation of India, an initiative of Central Silk Board, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, is being organised in Chandigarh. The expo-cum-sale, designed to present the various diversified products developed by the research institutes of Central Silk Board is on at Kisan Bhawan.
You share your birthday with Riya Sen (January 24 ,1982, Kolkata), who hails from a family of actors, including her mother Moon Moon Sen and sister Raima Sen. She has appeared in music videos, television commercials, fashion shows and on magazine covers. Due to Rahu’s dominance in her stars, she will remain mired in controversies.
