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No paisa vasool!
They know about it; they might not be saying it aloud — Punjabi film industry might soon hit that big iceberg, the one that sank the Titanic! Everyone on board can sense it — the actors, directors, comedians and most of all the producers. Thanks to the dwindling phase of Punjabi films, none of them have been well-received by the audience or the market. Nine out of ten films barely managed to recover one-third of the money invested on them! This has certainly made the producers sit up and take notice; this has certainly dissuaded them from investing in Punjabi films. With only a handful of producers repeating themselves, we wonder what happens next! Like singing, will the Punjabi actors now start investing their own money in films? Or will the filmmakers and actors lower their fee considering that nobody will pay the
crores?
Wait & watch
Last year, the Punjabi film industry saw an amazing number of businessmen and real estate tycoons turning producers. Now, for most of them, it is wait and watch! Himmat Singh, who along with his wife Brinder, produced RSVP, starring Neeru Bajwa and Harish Verma, is one among them. "The films are not doing well; there is no recovery from Punjabi films," he adds, hoping to make a film next year. "Not anytime soon though," he adds. Ditto for the producer of Sikander, Poonam Pawar, who doesn't see herself producing ever again! "The industry is totally unprofessional, people fleece money without giving the right details. A producer is shown rosy dreams, but the ground reality is always something else. And this reality only shows up in the end when the film falls flat totally."
Step by step
While we talk about producers losing their money, some with a heart and maybe some extra cash still feel everything is not lost. Rahulinder Singh, Sidhu who debuted as producer with Young Malang, with a multi-star cast starring Balli Riar, Yuvraj Hans and Vinaypal Buttar, feels that there is still scope for Punjabi films in the market. "The problem is with investors turning producers. Lack of knowledge and no clarity are the reasons why producers are losing faith." Rahulinder, who plans to make a Hindi and a Punjabi film very soon, with some of his cast from the previous Punjabi film Young Malang in mind, also stresses on the fact that there is big mafia in the distribution network. "Whatever the distributor says becomes the final word. We are never too sure about the figures," adds the producer, who is thinking of forming an association for new producers. "There should be some mechanism in place for this, which ensures professionalism in film producing."
Let's hope
Yes, there is no recovery from Punjabi films. Producer Anmol Kapoor, cardiologist from Calgary who made Patiala Dreamz, is shocked by what is shown on screen. "I thought I was cheated. I was told all kinds of positive things about the Punjabi film market, but the reality was totally
different. Should the producer be blamed for this? How would the producer know? Aren't they supposed to believe in the team?" he questions. Filmmakers probably have other reasons. Director Amit Prasher says the producers need to work with professional filmmakers. "I can only sustain in this industry with the help of a producer, so my job should be to make a good film and not take the guarantee for a hit or a flop," he shares, quoting that both the producers of his previous two films have repeated themselves. jasmine@tribunemail.com
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A social word
They say he is a poet of many moods. Well, they must know him very well. But, a man of his disposition could not possibly care for what 'they' say! He is just too busy looking for words, which frame the meaning of 'their' existence. Padma Shri Nida Fazli, in Chandigarh for Jashn-e-Haryana All India Mushaira, shares, "Shayri and words do not fall from the sky, they grow just like a tree. Just like trees need soil and water to grow, words draw power from society, culture and traditions. I have not known a word that exists independently of the society," says Faizli.
As Fazli continues to pour out his disdain over the present socio-political scenario, he believes that the problems of the society have always been the focal concern of poets. He mentions quotes by Baba Farid, Guru Nanak, Tulsidas and even Mirza Ghalib as he substantiates his argument, "Politics, as was started by the Congressmen when the nation was just born, was all about Jan seva, whereas now it is all about Dhan seva. I am deeply harrowed by the current scenario, but I am happy with the change that the Delhi government witnessed this year. When sensationalism is the character of modern politics, one is harrowed with the brewing injustice and corruption; someone has to talk about it. When Nanak says Nanak dukhiya sab sansaar it connotes that the world was troubled even then." However, he believes that it is the presence of evil that makes the struggle for good more dramatic and for that, he quotes excerpts from the Mahabharata, John Milton's Paradise Lost and Mohamad Iqbal's Gabriel-e-Iblees. Fazli also laments the loss of meaning of words in today's time as he says, "Words are the foundation of social existence of humans because they are the only tools of communication. However, these days they don't reach people. There is a lot of population and the words can't travel to them." He adds, "In this corrupt world now, the meaning of decency has been lost. But as a poet one observes and like I said earlier, there is not a word that exists without it having a social relevance." Lingual love
Ana Dehalvi from Delhi, who has been reciting her poetic compositions since she was thirteen, says, "While most of the poets think and believe that they are in the service of Urdu, they forget that it is Urdu which is serving them." Ana has penned as many as four books. While two of them, titled Pehchaan and Mausam Peele Phoolon ka, have been awarded by the Sahitya Academy, her two books on Urdu — Uske Naam Ki Aadhi Zindagi and Rang-e-Ana — have been awarded by the Urdu Academy. Ana writes her ghazals and geets in Shingaar style, which is also what was used by Ghalib and Mir in their romantic poetry. "The mushairas these days are very commercial; poetry is now treated like a profession. I am glad that it is promoting Urdu language, which is one of the sweetest languages of the world," she shares. amarjot@tribunemail.com
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Brand bargain
Affordable luxury is what brand Swiss Military stands for. Established in 1984 in Switzerland, the brand has made its presence felt by doing exceptionally well in flight and online market. It is all set to enter multi-brand outlets in a big manner in February.
Swiss Military has diverse products, right
from cosmetics, footwear, leather goods to multi-utility items. Five years of its presence in the country, the brand has taken its own time in
entering the direct market, explains Anuj Sawney, MD, Swiss Military, "With such cultural diversity, we had to customise products. The market being so price sensitive, we had to walk the extra mile on that too." In the first phase, we go for Chandigarh and Delhi, where buyers are discerning and have high disposable incomes too. "We spread to different states in the second phase and will have pan-India presence by September." They are launching writing instruments, accessories, multi-utility tools, travel gears and leather goods to begin with while the rest will soon follow. "Our R&D team is constantly on its toes. Our new products are nine plug chargers that can charge any phone with USB port whether you are home, office, in car or flight. Then there is world alarm travel clock cum organiser torch that helps those who are constantly travelling." The price is going to be the catch with Swiss Military as their stylish looks, multi-utility and the established name helps them. mona@tribunemail.com
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Height of decoration
Renu Soni
Residents of the tri-city are becoming more experimental with their choice of internal architectural design, and a favourite feature of mine is the double height wall and its volume. For most of us, sacrificing the floor area is unthinkable. But for those who can afford this design attribute, it is well worth it and results in a home that feels far more spacious than its dimensions would suggest. Decorating a double height room or wall, however, can be a real cause for confusion. When highlighting such a feature, you need to take into account, factors such as scale, balance, window treatments and lighting. Whatever you decide to do, dividing the room into thirds, both vertically and horizontally, will help to achieve proper scale. Once these have been considered, you can opt for the most suitable interior design solution to maximise on your double height feature.
A double-height wall can present design challenges because of its atypical size, but done correctly, the design can be very dramatic and bold. (Soni is an interior decorator)
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Seal with a fish
"It's a fish found in the waters of Bay of Bengal. The British in Mumbai used to order it through mail or dak, as we say in Hindi. The name was gradually improvised and today is known as Bombay duck," goes on Aditya, we can't help but marvel at the tenderness and taste of the fish. Many such dishes find a mention in the menu of the Seafood Festival put up at the restaurant that boasts of 170 different dishes. "In this region of the country, food palate of people changes in tandem with the weather. This is the right time to enjoy seafood and the variety with us is not just limited to fish." So, in the menu, you will find soups, appetizers and main course from three different regions--South Coastal, Pan Asian and Indian. Aware of the fact that people in Chandigarh take their own sweet time to acquire the taste of 'foreign' cuisines, Aditya included the dishes that are very Punjabi, very North Indian. "Tawa fish, fish tikka and tandoori fish are all-time favourites of people here but this is an attempt to introduce them to new dishes." A wonderful way to do that is ordering a sampler, which serves six dishes on the platter in small portions. The sampler comprises baby pomfret, crabmeat, king fish, lobster, bhetki and Bombay duck. A must try is pomfret masala, a South Coastal dish and soft shell crabs as starters. The main course has Mangalore pomfret curry and Karavapillai pomfret curry. "I am confident that people who will try seafood here will come back for more." To acquire a new taste, you just need to try a couple of times.
If you have had enough of chicken tikka and butter chicken, it's time to try out seafood. And Gourmet Nine is set to introduce you to an array of seafood dishes through its ongoing Seafood Festival
On till February 9
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Smart choice
Fashion as a profession was never so popular as it is now. Armed with professional degrees, young boys and girls are helping everybody to become trendy and smart. That is what young Sanmeet Kaur, a student of fashion designing at PIFT is trying to do whole heartedly.
Your sense of style… For me a judicious mix of brands and colour combinations along with the suitability factor denotes style. The latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories… A lemon coloured sweater from Madame. Brand crazy or street pick-up? Like to mix both to get the effect. Who is your style icon? Deepika Pandukone fits my frame of being ideally dressed. Who do you think is the worst-dressed celebrity? It may be surprising but I do not like Sonam Kapoor's way of dressing. Which look would your prefer-sporty, chic or glamorous? Glamorous it is. One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension… Too much of neon and fluorescent colours don't gel with me. Your take on accessories? A few accessories always look good. Especially bracelets and neck pieces. Given a choice which designer would you like to be dressed? Manish Malhotra would be my choice. What gives you a high on the confidence level? As usual we look for appreciation and praise and that's what makes my day and then naturally confidence steps in. — As told to Poonam Bindra
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A toast to the Horse
Chinese food is one of the finest and safest food options for any foodie. To mark the commencement of the Chinese New Year, Hotel Taj, Chandigarh, organised a Chinese Food Festival on Wednesday at its Chinese restaurant-Black Lotus. Never mind if you do not know how to eat with chopsticks, there's always fork and knife to the rescue. As we plunge into the flavours of the eastern delicacies, we are served a variety of starters, including crispy vegetables with Szechwan pepper, crispy chicken drumettes and honey glazed crispy chicken. All compliments to the chef. There are a burst of flavours in the chicken sweet and sour and lady finger is schezwan sauce, which are served with steamed rice and veg hakka noodles. So much for the main course! Chef Shi is one of the most experienced Chinese chefs not only in Chandigarh, but across India. He has experience of over 30 years to create and innovate new dishes. "It is the beginning of the 'Year of the Horse' according to the Chinese calendar. A specially prepared menu for the occasion includes traditional dishes like Shang dong roast chicken, Hong Kong style lamb, Beijing style hard shell chilli crab, corn with pine nuts, Shantung roast chicken, Ruyi chicken roll and fragrant duck rool," says Shi. (On till February 9)
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It’'s matter of heart
This Valentine's Day Tara Jewellers launches its leading international Hearts Embrace collection in India, with a patented diamond embrace design symbolising love, romance and eternity.
The exquisite collection has an assortment of heart shaped motif pendants, earrings, rings and solitaire rings, ranging from Rs 12,000 to Rs 52,000. Each piece has a unique design with two hearts embracing a sparkling diamond! Tara Jewels launched this collection in the United States in January 2013 in the stores of one of the largest specialty retail jeweler in the US. —
TNS
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Reel-life to real-life jodis
It happens all the time. People fall in love while doing movies and people who are in love do movies together. Here are some real life reel-life couples. 1.
Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan
Their jodi has not worked on screen. They started dating during Tashan, which flopped. They have done Kurbaan and Agent Vinod together and none of them worked. Thankfully, their marriage is working. 2.
Abhay Deol and Preeti Desai
The duo lives together in Mumbai and they will be seen together for the first time in One By Two which is Deol's home production. 3.
Shraddha Kapoor and Aditya Roy Kapur
Rumour mills are abuzz that the duo that had their first hit with Aashiqui 2 is seeing each other in real-life too for nearly a year. They make appearances together but have not announced their relationship as yet. 4.
Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif
Ranbir Kapoor was dating Deepika Padukone when they shot for Bachna Ae Haseeno and he conveniently began dating Katrina Kaif when they shot for Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani. They are still together though they have not come out with their relationship. 5.
Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone
They began dating during the shooting of Raam Leela and now it has been more than a year
for them. Their chemistry in Raam Leela was crackling but they prefer to keep audiences guessing on their
relationship status.
Break time
Aamir Khan is on a 10-day break to unwind and read scripts and will go to Europe for the same. We are not sure if Kiran and Azad will accompany him. The actor has been busy shooting for two movies and promotions and Satyamev Jayate Season 2 as well. Fan following
Prerna Maynil is Deepika Padukone's biggest fan and she has written many emails, letters and tweets to her. She was lucky to walk with her idol at the Filmfare
awards. Wedding bells for Rani
Rumour has it that Rani Mukerji and Aditya Chopra will tie the knot in Umaid Bhavan Palace in Jodhpur on Valentine's Day. Their friends and family have been invited already and preparations are on in full swing. So much
for a tan
Ranveer Singh and Arjun Kapoor had to do make-up for three hours to get the tanned look while shooting for Gunday, which made them look more realistic, in tune with the film Gunday set in Kolkata. Inner secrets
Believe it or not, expensive Victoria's Secret lingerie went missing from the sets of Ragini MMS 2 after Sunny Leone shot for her scenes wearing the same. Now, new lingerie has been ordered. Raageshwari Loomba gets married!
Indian pop singer and former VJ Raageshwari Loomba got married to a London based international law barrister Sudhanshu Swaroop on January 27 in Mumbai. Her friend and actress Pooja Bedi shared a picture of them together and tweeted: "With the gorgeous @Raageshwari1 at her wedding. An absolutely stunning bride and an evening too. Can't believe she is getting married. It's like a dream." Her bridal sari was designed by ace designer Neeta Lulla. After the celebrations, Raageshwari will be shifting to London.
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Grace-ful entry
Grace of Monaco starring Nicole Kidman has been selected to open the world renowned Cannes Film Festival on May 14. YRF Entertainment and Stone Angels produced the film.
The film will be screened in Cannes' Official Selection category and the opening ceremony will be broadcast to a number of participating cinemas. Directed by Olivier Dahan and produced by Uday Chopra, Pierre-Ange le Pogam and Arash Amel, who also wrote the screenplay, Grace Of Monaco will be released worldwide. The Weinstein Company will distribute the film in the US. An ecstatic Uday Chopra said about the thrilling news "I knew from the moment I read the wonderful script, penned by Arash Amel, that we had something special in Grace Of Monaco and watching Nicole bring that character to life only increased my excitement about the project. I guess today, after viewing the film, The Cannes Film Festival agrees with our belief in the movie and shares in our excitement. I feel proud that YRF Entertainment in its first release in Hollywood has managed to reach this milestone. My only regret is that my dad is not alive to see this happen." Grace Of Monaco tells the story of efforts by the late Princess Grace of Monaco (the former Grace Kelly, played by Nicole Kidman) to make peace between her adopted country and France. Grace, just 33 years old and having just given up an acting career to become Monaco's First Lady, maneuvered through a political minefield to resolve the situation, as detailed in the film. Among other projects, YRF Entertainment is also producing Arash Amel's follow-up to Grace Of Monaco. This is an adaptation of Chris Greenhalgh's Seducing Ingrid Bergman.
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Shilpa launches Ayesha Khanna
Shilpa Shetty Kundra has launched stylist Ayesha Khanna, a former YRF stylist, as the female lead in her film Dishkiyaoon opposite Harman Baweja. The actress has teamed up with Eros International for the project under her banner Essential Sports & Media Pvt Ltd.
Incidentally, Ayesha has earlier worked as a stylist in YRF's Band Baja Baraat and Ladies Vs Ricky Behl. Shilpa who spotted Ayesha for a stylist's job for her production, encouraged her to audition for her home production. At the audition, Ayesha was asked to audition for two scenes and to the amazement of the entire unit, she floored everyone present with her performance. Ayesha confirmed, "Being an actress was never part of my plan; Shilpa insisted that I audition and luckily for me the director Sanamjit Singh Talwar loved my act."
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Right moves
Recently, during the shoot of SAB Ke Satrangi Parivaar Awards, Chidhiya Ghar family was supposed to shoot for an introductory dance act on Hum Toh Aise Hain Bhaiya. Like any other award function, the rehearsals were in full swings. Incidentally, no one from Chidiya Ghar, except Shubhangi Atre Poorey aka Koel, could turn up for the rehearsals due to busy shoot schedules. So like an ideal bahu of the family, Shubhangi took the responsibility of learning all the dance steps and teaching them to other members of the family. Shubhangi, who was present for all her practice schedules, made sure not to miss out on any steps or acts. A source informs that Shubhangi was seen teaching the final dance steps to her co-actors at the backstage just minutes before the live act began. She is passionate towards dancing and happily took up the charge to train her co-actors. The performance was applauded by all. Says Shubhangi, "I was enjoying my dance and very happy to be a part of SAB Ke Satrangi Parivaar Awards. I wanted my Chidiya Ghar family to give their best performance and enjoy themselves. It was a challenge to train my co-actors at the last minute. In the end, all of them danced exceptionally well and I enjoyed playing the part of a choreographer for the moment." SAB Ke Satrangi Parivaar Awards will premiere on SAB TV on Friday, January 31, 2014.
Political game
Sony Entertainment Television's popular show Desh ki Beti Nandini has seen some dramatic twists and turns. The central character Nandini has touched everyone's heart. Coming from a non-political background, Nandini got married into a political family and now will be seen in a completely new avatar - that of a politician. After being impressed by Nandini, the all women members of the Pooran Rashtra Prapti decided to vote for her as their next president. After much deliberation, Gayatri Devi will be seen announcing Nandini as the new president of their political party. Dressed in a sari and a simple blouse, Nandini will take over the reins of the party and start writing a new chapter in her life.
Proud son
Buzz is that Sudeep Sahir, who was last seen in Main Lakshmi Tere Aangann Ki and was doing a film,
is now being cast in Jaya Bachchan's TV show. He has been approached to play one of the sons
on the show called Vasundhara. Vishal Singh of Dekh Bhai Dekh fame, Urvashi Dholakia and Aasiya Kazi are the other actors in the show.
Aanchal enters
Priyal Gor, who plays Radha in Life OK's Ek Boond Ishq, has quit the show due to date issues. Now Aanchal Munjal might replace her. Radha's character is important to the show as she was supposedly raped by Mrutyunjay (Viraf Patel).
Kareena inspired!
Nazea Hasan is featuring as Karan's wife in Siddharth Kumar Tewary's Mahabharat. The pretty and innocent looking actress, who had debuted with the character of princess Jasmine in Alladin on Zee TV, says, "I was going through the promos of Mahabharat and the grandeur appealed to me. I wanted to be a part of such a beautiful serial." Nazea realised that she wanted to be a full-time actress when she debuted as a lead in her first show. Nazea is excited about the role as it is her first mythological show. She adds, "I love my make-up and look in the show. She plays a very intelligent but absolutely innocent role of a village girl." My look is inspired by Kareena Kapoor's look in Asoka."
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Post the show
In a sudden decision of a leap in Madhubala, Vivian Dsena found himself out of the show. Vivian talks about his exit, the show and his character
RK.
How tough will it be for you to not be part of this show? Madhubala is in my blood and it would be tough to let it go so soon. RK will remain close to my heart. It's the best role I have played to date. I will always be thankful to the producers Abhinav
Shukla, Saurabh Tiwari as well as Colors. They thought I fit the bill and they cast me. What has this phase taught you? Acting; earlier I actually thought I couldn't act at all. Acting today has become a passion. I got the chance to bring out the actor in me. High drama, romance and action were good motivator in this show. You have quit the show as you didn't want to play dad. What if tomorrow you have to play dad on another show? I will think about it when that day comes. I wouldn't have been able to convince the audience that I am a father of a 25-year-old. Are you open to reality shows? Let's leave it to the future. I am going for a one-month break where I will spend time with the family in my hometown - Mumbai and
Pune. I wasn't able to do so in the last one-and-a-half years due to this show. Later, will see what happens. Are you looking at films? I can't predict the future. Let's see. I will leave it to my destiny. Films are a big leap and no actor would say no to films. After doing a daily soap which is hectic, I need to relax a bit before I take on or even think of what to do next. There is buzz that Karanvir Bohra will play the lead post the leap. Is it true? I don't think that is true. — HRM
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Astro turf
ARIES: The self-employed and business owners will feel like putting in a few hours to supervise property ventures. Conditions at home will be pleasant enough. Do not speculate.
Tarot message: You need to act for yourself. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 28.
TAURUS: If there is work to be done and you feel like doing it, go right ahead. House work and chores can be handled efficiently. Consider helping a relative with his or her domestic needs.
Tarot message: Focus on your goals. Lucky colour: Violet. Magic number: 36. GEMINI: Today's do something for your pleasure. Do all in your power to get agreements settled with your co-workers. A close rapport may be developing between you and a colleague.
Tarot message: Don't dismiss the advice of youngsters. Lucky colour: Orange.
Magic number: 62. CANCER: Dreaming big? This is the first step in creating success. Many of you have been working constantly for an ambitious
career. Teamwork is the keynote of the day. Tarot message: Retain the fruits of your
hardwork. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 56. LEO: The crowning fulfillment of achieving your goals and gaining recognition will arrive soon. Stay focused on personal vision as you take the last steps to reach a journey's end.
Tarot message: Convert your efforts into decisive action. Lucky colour: Green.
Magic number: 59. VIRGO: Like in a game of snakes and ladders, you should step back and retrace your steps. Get on
with any job that is at hands. A secret love affair will bring you added pleasure.
Tarot message: It is no longer necessary to take risks. Lucky colour: Rust.
Magic number: 44.
LIBRA: The Page of Swords reveals a good time to tie all loose ends together and take care of precious details with absolute perfection. You are in for a
mixed day. Tarot message: Avoid situations that can turn nasty. Lucky colour: Blue.
Magic number: 49. SCORPIO: Searching for a soul-mate? You will be able to make right connections effortlessly, with the added assistance of a dash of intuition and trust.
Tarot message: Trust your heart and intuition. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 61. SAGITTARIUS: The doorway to profound knowledge and insight will open through a wise acquaintance. Love blossoms at the workplace. Little will be achieved by a show of force.
Tarot message: Do not let anyone take advantage of you. Lucky colour: Brown.
Magic number: 31. CAPRICORN: This can be a day that starts calmly and uneventfully, lulling you into a false sense of security. Trusting people who have just appeared on the scene is a foolish move.
Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Grey.
Magic number: 27. AQUARIUS: Minding your business is a good choice. Live and let live is a good motto currently. If a task seems overwhelming, break it down into smaller, simple steps.
Tarot message: Strive for perfection at work. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 38. PISCES: Life seems full of contention at the moment and it is hard to get along with others. The postponement of a certain deal can cause anxiety. Housewives: a good day for buying a piece of jewellery. Tarot message: Don't be too certain about obtaining a clearance. Lucky colour: Purple.
Magic number: 40.
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The year ahead
If your birthday is January 30...
Remain optimistic concerning relationships in your life. Your sense of humour will help you in keeping happy. Life doesn't always run smoothly and this may be one of those small bumps in the road. Make the most of the situation. Put a little romance in your life and spend quality time with a special someone. This year is going to be very fruitful for growth in career. Benefits are expected from your associates. You will gain profits from trade as well as foreign travel. Health ailments might shake up your peace of mind. You should not take risks during this time and speculations should also be avoided. Positive colours: Yellow, Cream, Purple, Red. Select days: Thursday, Tuesday. Favourable numbers: 3, 6, 9. Gems recommended: Onyx Charity on birthday: Donate yellow edible items to the needy, handicapped or at any religious place today.
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Bombay duck can be such a misleading name for a dish. It's neither found in the city, nor is it a duck. The interesting bit of history about the dish is provided by Aditya Prabhu of Gourmet Nine, as that Bombay duck gets served.
As long as there's pasta and Chinese food in the world, I'm okay." — Michael Chang
As we speak with Chef Shi Yuan, he says, "To celebrate the Chinese New Year this year at Black Lotus, I have made a special menu from the all time popular Schezwan and Cantonese region of China." 
You share your birthday with Christian Bale (January 30, 1980), who won over 30 Best Supporting Actor awards and the British Actor of the Year Award for his role in the 2010 film, The Fighter. His roles as serial killer Patrick Bateman and Trevor Reznik earned him critical acclaim.