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Republic day Mona This Republic Day, here’s catching up with some prominent people to know what Fundamental Rights and Duties, as enshrined in the Constitution, mean to them...
With rights come responsibilities; we talk to some prominent people from different walks of life about rights and duties.
Educated views
For model Diana Hayden, it’s the right to basic education that holds supreme value. “Education sets the foundation of our life and we are in a better position to take care of not only ourselves but also those around and our country if we are independent. Education is the first step towards it.” As for duties, Hayden goes for ‘to uphold unity and integrity of the country’. “United we stand strong,” says the girl, who is busy writing her second book, attending events, doing voiceovers and much more.
Responsible ways
Equality matters
Free thought
As for duties, he goes for ‘to follow the noble ideals which inspired our national struggle for freedom’ and the one he tried to fulfil both in personal and professional life. His film Shaheed, inspired by the life story of Bhagat Singh, completes 50 years in 2014. That’s not just the only one; his other works Upkar and Purab Aur Paschim dealt with the national theme and quite successfully. It’s not that he lived the character just on screen, but while shooting for Shaheed in Punjab, long years ago, he got to know about Bhagat Singh’s mother being admitted to the hospital and refusing to take medication. The successful actor-director personally visited her.
Wide canvas
Artist Mahesh Prajapati isn’t happy with the notion that the Constitution is considered a book only to be revered. “The rights and duties given in the Constitution should be made part and parcel of our life,” he says. While he cherishes the Right to Expression most, he feels any artist is not above the Constitution. “While freedom is one, it comes with responsibility. There have been instances when our national emblem has been painted in negative light. I wouldn’t ever subscribe to it. There are millions of other themes; let there be sanctity of such issues,” says Prajapati. About duties, he says, “They are for the citizens to abide by, if not them who else will follow them. Right from following rules to fostering healthy bonds with those around, I try to follow them in my life.” mona@tribunemail.com
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Voice of freedom
Amarjot Kaur Music in many ways stands for free thought and when the occasion is the Republic Day, any tribute is more than welcome. Here's what bands from Chandigarh sing on social issues... They weaved a mosaic that defined the character of each era. While they knitted music and lyrics together, musicians across the globe questioned the dimensions of existing norms. Be it the Woodstock Festival in 1969 that signalled the end of war in Vietnam and established the mass theory of power to the people or Rage Against the Machine, which voiced viewpoints highly critical of the domestic as well as foreign policies of current and previous US governments. There are many other names in the list of revolutionary musicians, including Jim Morrison and The Muse. This Republic Day, bands from Chandigarh chronicle their views on social issues with music that hits but does not hurt!
Dark tale: Swastik the band Members: Parth Koser, Rishab Kesar, Karan Verma and Rohit Joshi Original song on social issues: Andhere Sheher The idea behind coming up with the song: "Andhere Sheher has been written by my younger brother; we did want to talk about social issues and address them to people. It touches different issues-terrorism, corruption, child labour, women harassment," says Rohit. One revolutionary musician who inspires them: Indian Ocean, especially the song called Bande, Zindagi se darte ho and Maya. YouTube link: youtube.com/swastiktheband Number of hits: Above 2,500.
Surprise package: Just Ittefaaq Members: Jasleen Aulakh (vocals and acoustic guitar), Rohit Joshi (guitar), Naaz (percussions), Polly Saghera (lyrics). Original song on social issues: Paisa Paisa and Mera Supna. The idea behind coming up with the song: "Paisa Paisa talks of depth of human consciousness and money is the only thing that matters. Mera sapna is a dream for having a safer and better place for women. My mother Polly Saghera has penned another song titled, Tamanna, which is about hope and how old people are being neglected," says Jasleen. One revolutionary musician who inspires them: John Lennon; he is a dreamer and that's why I like him. Youtube link: youtube.com/justittefaaq Number of hits: Approximately 6000.
High pitch: Kalkii
Members: Suneet Rawat (vocals and acoustic guitar), Vyom Bhardvaj (drums), Gaurav Sharma (lead guitar), Abhinav Sharma (bass guitar), Harsimran Bhatia (guitarist) and Naveen K Kantiwal (manager). Original song on social issues: Bulandi. The idea behind coming up with the song: "This song was to inspire and motivate people and society. It talks of how people should work towards betterment of society," says Suneet. One revolutionary musician who inspires them: AR Rahman for Vande Matram Social link: Facebook.com/kalkiitheband Number of hits: "We have not yet launched the song on YouTube," says Naveen.
Echoing voices: The Local train
Members: Paras Thakur (guitarist), Ramit (bassist), Sahil Sarin (drums) and Raman Negi (vocalist). Original song on social issues: Ganja, Yeh Zindagi Hai. The idea behind coming up with the song: "Ganja is a song about our corrupt politicians and how they have robbed the country. Also, Yeh Zindagi Hai is a satire-laden song about materialistic people and how money rules the roost," says Paras. One revolutionary musician who inspires them: There are many bands that stand against the system, and we fancy Muse and Rage against machine the most. Youtube link: youtube.com/tltofficial Number of hits: The song has not been released yet officially, but it will be a part of our upcoming album, which will be released next month. However, you can find bootleg versions of these songs on YouTube, which have been recorded at several live shows perhaps," Paras says.
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Sweet & simple
Sweety Singh, who runs Sweety Singh Da Dhaba in Old Delhi, whips up some simple
and rustic Punjabi dishes
If you do something with devotion, you are bound be a success. Sweety Singh is one such example. This chef is simplicity personified and his food bears his stamp. His dhaba in Old Delhi is popular and he has been conducting Punjabi Food Festivals from the past 14 years. Sweety Singh Da Dhaba has its temporary address at Indi Spice, Park Plaza-17. Simple, basic flavour is Sweety's USP. He carries his masalas along as does his years of experience. His father started with selling sukhi dal, kari pakoda and kheer on his rehri in Old Delhi that later graduated to a dhaba. Harjinder Singh (before he became famous as Sweety Singh, his pet name) took the tradition forward. Punjabi food has registered its presence globally and with so many variations, the authenticity has been somewhere compromised. But right here, in Punjabi heartland, Sweety has brought in the rustic flavour for you. The basic ingredients he uses are onion and tomato, and special masalas which he prepares. "All kind of food is being served in the name of Punjabi food. New chefs use cashew, cream, colour and what not to make it appealing. I don't do that," says Sweety. He opts for no colour policy, the spices are traditional. So his kadi is khatti, saag a sumptuously salty and sweet mix and dal's flavour is original. "Spices should be able to enhance the flavour of food, not overshadow it." The festival has his signature dishes anari murg tikka, pindi chole and beetroot halwa. The vegetarian starters outdo the non- vegetarian ones. We are all for kurkuri chatni, paneer paratdar and machhi di seekh. The main course reminds us of village food. Beetroot Halwa is yummy. Having travelled across the globe, Sweety has showcased his skills at different countries. What irks him is that the young generation dismisses Indian cuisine as oily but overlooks the amount of cheese their favourite pizzas and pastas have. "Foreigners value our food more than we do. Whenever I am abroad, they want to learn about our ingredients, right from hing to lahsan, and their medicinal properties," says Sweety who just wants to spread his flavour all around! The food is at Rs 999 plus taxes per person for dinner and is on till February 2. mona@tribunemail.com
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She’s got the look
Chitrangda Singh is beautiful, sexy, and stylish. She talks about style, fashion, fitness, and more. Style files I am into comfortable dressing. You will find me mostly in jeans and tees. The maximum time I have taken to dress up for a party is about two hours with hair and make-up. But when time is at a premium, I dress up in 20 minutes. Fashion faux pas It feels good to be considered a fashion icon, but I have had my share of fashion faux pas. For an awards ceremony, I wore a sequined grey evening gown with grey sequin shoes and it looked terrible. Since that day, I swore to never match my outfit with my accessories. Fitness regime When not travelling, I work out four times a week. Right now, I am in love with kickboxing. It's energizing, great for sculpting and toning, and so much fun too. As far as beauty is concerned, I think it's all about feeling comfortable in your skin. Eye candy Many women don't realise the importance of well-shaped eyebrows. It frames the face and enhances your features. They should also master the smoky-eyes make-up for a glamorous and sensual look. Vanity-bag essentials Mumbai is very sunny and since I travel all day, I always carry my sunglasses. To keep my skin hydrated throughout the day, I carry a light moisturiser. The razor that I endorse is a must-have. I find waxing time-consuming and hair removal creams too messy. I never leave the house without an eyeliner as it defines my signature look. Finally, a perfume with musky fragrance completes the look. Attractive men I find Amitabh Bachchan, Akshay Kumar and Aamir Khan stylish. Personally, I like my man clean-shaven. A good shave makes him look attractive and smell good. If he's sporting a stubble, it looks like he has not had a bath. Grace of Monaco to open Cannes fest French director Olivier Dahan's Grace of Monaco is to open the next Festival de Cannes. The world preview will take place on May 14 in the Grand Théâtre Lumière of the Palais des Festivals, in the Official Selection category, Out of Competition. Grace of Monaco follows on from The Great Gatsby by Baz Luhrmann. The film portrays a period in the life of American actress Grace Kelly (played by Nicole Kidman) who became Princess Grace of Monaco when she married Prince Rainier III (Tim Roth) in 1956, in what was dubbed 'the marriage of the century'. An Oscar winner, she was already a huge film star, having worked with the very greatest (John Ford, Alfred Hitchcock, Fred Zinnemann) and acclaimed the world over. Six months later, amid occasional difficulties in fulfilling her role, she was invited back to Hollywood by Alfred Hitchcock. Big B to play a 30-year old After playing a 12-year old boy in R Balki's Paa, buzz is that Amitabh Bachchan will essay the role of a 30-year old man for the remake of the 1986 film Aakhri Raasta. While in the original, the seasoned actor had to wear layers of makeup to play the father's character; in this remake he will do the reverse by taking the help of prosthetics and makeup to look much younger; though he will maintain his current real-life image when playing the father's role. In Aakhri Raasta, Bachchan played a dual role that of a son and a father. He was ably supported by Sridevi and Jayaprada. Incidentally, Aakhri Raasta was a remake of the 1984 Tamil film Oru Kaidhiyin Diary that starred Kamal Haasan in a double role. If all goes right then the remake is going to be directed by Anthony D'Souza who had earlier helmed films like Blue and Boss. Khan vs Khan Illness and injury wait for no one. But is it a strange coincidence that Shah Rukh Khan suffered an accident just a day before Salman's Jai Ho released. Or, is there more to it than what meets the eye? When asked about the SRK's accident, Salman said: "This had to happen just before the release of Jai Ho? Don't blow this news out of proportion." "Unke jaan pe hamla nahi hua hai (There was no mortal attack). He has not lost his memory... He is fine, so concentrate on Jai Ho. We just found out that he is fine, so we are happy," Salman told reporters at the launch of brother-in-law Atul Agnihotri's film O Teri. Meanwhile, Shah Rukh Khan tweeted late on Thursday that he will undergo a few tests and may have sustained a few scars in the accident, but the tweet clearly meant that the King Khan is completely fine and in his best spirits. "Have a few tests to do & Insha Allah all will be good. Few scars maybe. Will show them off cos as they say there are no scars for happiness," Shah Rukh updated his fans. Interestingly, soon after there was another coincidence as Salman bumped into ex-girlfriend Katrina Kaif at Mehboob where he was addressing the media. Now whether the two shared a casual hug or a chat after their impromptu rendezvous will be revealed only by the eyewitnesses. PeeKay postponed The release of PeeKay has been pushed to December from June but Rajkumar Hirani had an hour long meeting with the entire team of PeeKay to talk about the next schedule of the movie on January 1. Party time Aditya Chopra and Yash Raj Films will organise a special party for the exhibitors of Dhoom 3, right from the single screen owners to the multiplex owners because the film is the biggest hit of 2013. We wonder if Aditya Chopra will step out to meet the guests. Dancing away to glory Preeti Desai plays a professional dancer in One By Two and she spent a year learning dance for the movie. She learnt jazz, hip- hop, and contemporary dance forms for the movie.
Sallu shines The trailer of O Teri! was launched by Salman Khan with the cast and crew of the movie at a suburban multiplex. Haider clashes with Roy On September 12, actor Shahid Kapoor and Ranbir Kapoor will clash at the box office with Haider and Roy, respectively. These films will also clash with Anushka Sharma starrer NH 10. Now only time will tell who will rule. Premiere time Take a look at Salman Khan and Daisy Shah at the premiere of Jai Ho in Dubai. What on earth is she wearing?! She looks fat. Turn for producers After launching actors and directors, YRF will now launch producers. The first one is Maneesh Sharma who will produce Dum Laga Ke Haisha starring Ayushmann Khurrana.
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United we stand
We talk to some stars about being an Indian and how they celebrate the day...
Understand rights
I am proud to be an Indian and urge all my fellow citizens to understand their rights better and be more aware about the significance of the diversity of this country. I believe nothing stands stronger than understanding this.
Respect freedom
We all Indians should understand the importance of freedom and respect ours. We all should know our rights as citizens but at the same time it is very important to fulfill our duties too. Happy Republic Day!
saluting heroes
I am proud to be an Indian and want to salute all the freedom fighters who have fought for our nation's freedom.
Proud moment
Republic Day is the day when the Indian Constitution was formed. This is the day when we get to truly celebrate our freedom and remember the soldiers who sacrificed their lives for our nation. As a kid, I really loved watching the great parade and also the flag hoisting ceremony organised at my school. It was really a proud and patriotic moment to be a part of the celebrations.
Paying tributes
Republic Day for me is watching the national parade with my family. That's my way of paying a tribute to all those who have contributed in making this day possible for our nation.
Patriotic fervour
I am proud to be an Indian. As a kid, I remember being part of the school assembly, seeing the flag being hoisted and singing the National Anthem. I want to wish every Indian a very happy Republic Day! Jai hind!
Fond memories
I have very fond memories of all the Republic Day celebrations. In my school days, I remember all the kids had to assemble for the flag hoisting ceremony. We all were given these little flag badges that were supposed to be pinned up to our uniforms. It really brought a feeling of patriotism and unity when we sang the national anthem together in complete harmony.
Well begun
This 26th January 26, 2014, is special because there is a change in the air and we can all feel it. May New Delhi be only the beginning of a new and better India.
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Astro turf
ARIES: Chances are high for meeting a lovely companion. Couples can spend a delightful time in each other's company, appreciating all the strengths of the relationship.
Tarot message: If you are tempted to travel overseas, don't finance your own trip. Lucky colour: Sea Green. Magic number: 27. TAURUS: Early hours are definitely the best. If you are working try to get a special favour by 11.00 a.m. A bubbly mood in good company relieves the heaviness of pending duties and responsibilities. Tarot message: Put your terms and conditions in writing. Lucky colour: Rust. Magic number: 63. GEMINI: Put on your thinking cap. Learning processes and communication endeavours are highlighted. Changes made today will certainly appear to be best for the times to come. Tarot message: Be honest to your desires. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 27. CANCER: You will be free to operate as you feel is right. Relatives will do all they can to help. Speculation in property is not favoured. Legal matters can encounter red-tape and bureaucratic delay. Tarot message: Use your common sense. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 57. LEO: The atmosphere will not be conducive to achieving good results. Coming to angry words over personal differences will only be regretted. A run-in with an aggressive character can spoil the day. Tarot message: Don't allow your confidence to be dented. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 56. VIRGO: The pendulum of luck will not stop today. Health-wise rest is needed, otherwise fatigue will produce pessimism. Leave stress behind and enjoy yourself. Artistic and cultural experiences will be satisfying. Tarot message: A positive and caring attitude heals old wounds. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 51.
LIBRA: The 'Knight of Wands' promises you a high-profile day. Expect to be on the receiving
end of kindness and generosity from those who genuinely appreciate you. Give way to
minor issues. Tarot message: Play your cards right. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 52. SCORPIO: Your card "the Fool" reveals deception, delays and unhealthy conditions in your profession. Keep your wits and you will come out for the better in a deal. Tarot message: You have to push to succeed and your efforts will pay off. Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 50. SAGITTARIUS: You will have to check your plans. Improve your health by paying more attention to diet. Today you will be able to surprise the boss by showing the adaptable side of your nature. Tarot message: Draw on your
inner energies. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 27. CAPRICORN: Today money may come from unexpected sources. Parents will find this a good time for dealing with youngsters. A positive mood can quickly turn to negative vibes. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 29. AQUARIUS: Deal with all outstanding communication as certain people are sure waiting to hear from you. An early warning of a health problem is a blessing in disguise. Tarot message: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 64. PISCES: Today fear of loss of reputation or slander can grip you. Be courageous about a new investment opportunity. Housewives will develop interest in social activities. Tarot message: Your efforts will gain momentum if your listen to experienced people. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 48
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The year ahead
If your birthday is January 26...
The year commences on a positive note. Beware of saying anything malicious to anyone. Monetary gains in the form of shares and dividends are assured. Working women will find 2014 a bit strenuous. It is necessary to devote some time to maintain your health. Something will make you feel dissatisfied and pessimistic, but the stars are benevolent. Do not trust your instinct, try to stay cautious. Something will make you feel dissatisfied and pessimistic, but the stars are benevolent and suggest rewards are on the way. Do not trust your instinct; try to stay cautious. Positive colours: Black, Chocolate. Select days: Sunday, Tuesday. Favourable numbers: 1, 4, 8. Gems recommended: Blue Sapphire, Diamond, Emerald. Charity on birthday: Donate wheat or gur to the needy or at any religious place today.
You share your birthday with Maria Goretti (January 26, 1972, Goa), who was a popular MTV VJ before she married actor Arshad Warsi. She hosts a TV show, Do It Sweet, on the NDTV Good Times channel. She made an appearance with her son Zeke in the film Salaam Namaste, which also starred her husband.
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Rich touch
The 17th Silk Mark Expo at Kisan Bhawan presents 54 exhibitors from 12 states. Eminent painter and environmentalist Neenu Vij inaugurated the exhibition..
A free silk testing counter, set up by the students of University Institute of Fashion Technology & Vocational Courses (PU), is another attraction of the expo, where consumers can get their silk stuff tested for purity. K S Menon, CEO, Silk Mark Organisation of India (SMOI), says, "In order to enhance the credibility of Silk Mark, a series of Silk Mark Expos are being organised in the country. These have proved a powerful tool for the generic promotion of pure silk. The Kancheepuram sarees, Banarasi brocades and Tanchui sarees, the ornamental Balucheri sarees of West Bengal, the Ikkat and tie and dye sarees of Pochampally and Orissa, the crepes, chiffons and georgettes are some of the famous varieties produced in India." On till January 29
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Here comes the January 26th, the historic date that gave us our Constitution. While the parade in the national capital showcases the ability of our armed forces and is a peep into our cultural heritage, it’s also a day to reflect if we are being responsible citizens of the biggest democracy in the world. 
For senior IAS officer Vipul Mittra, Right to Freedom is the most valuable. “Although it comes with reasonable restrictions for a bureaucrat, I use it fully in expressing my creativity through fiction,” says Mittra. ‘To protect and improve the natural environment’ is what Mittra considers of utmost important as far as our duties go. “While bringing up children we emphasise on respecting elders and respecting religions, but we sometimes overlook being responsible for our nation. I try to do it all the time and also put youngsters on that path,” says Mittra.
For eminent theatre-person Balwant Thakur, it’s the Right of Equality before law that is the most significant. “It’s the rarest of the right that people have got anywhere on earth. If there is a violation, one can knock the court’s door,” he says. As for duties, it’s ‘to promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood amongst all people of India’; he abides by it in letter and spirit. Hailing from Jammu and Kashmir, his productions, including Hum Hai Na, promote unity in diversity. “I have visited as many as 80 countries, but take pride in being an Indian.”
Manoj Kumar, the patriotic hero of the silver screen, considers Right to Freedom as the most significant one granted to us by the Constitution, but rues that the government has failed to make it happen. “All rights enshrined in the constitution are of utmost value. I cherish the Right to Freedom, but sadly it remains on paper only,” says the veteran actor.
“When she saw me, she said, ‘it feels my son has come to me again’,” says Manoj Kumar who gave the money he received from the National Film Awards for best feature film that Shaheed won to Bhagat Singh’s family.
