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Lingual felicity
As he puts forth his creative pearls in thorough words, which he refers to as language of the 'main current', Vishwanath Prasad Tiwari, President, National Sahitya Akademi, unfolds a rather interesting dimension of Hindi as a language. A poet, writer and critic, Vishwanath, in a traditional dhoti and beige kurta, pauses every little while to arrange his thoughts and words. "Language is subject matter to change and since it is heavily influenced by society, which keeps evolving, it does the same," he says.
He refrains from making any candid statement about whether he likes the change has come about in Hindi as a language, "Change suggests progress and I believe that it is important, as also inevitable. If the change comes from a logical understanding of a phenomenon, it is for the good. But if it comes from imitation, it becomes what they call-fashion. Although English, as a language, is more acceptable in this era of globalisation, most people articulate their emotions more comfortably in their mother tongue." As he stresses on the functional relevance of a language, he establishes its connection with literature. "Literature takes notice of even those things that do not have a language of their own. For instance, when Valmiki writes about the death of a bird, which is regarded as the first shloka, it voices the feels of the bird, which cannot express itself in a language," he says. Vishwanath says language and literature has always been against fundamentalism. "Sahitya means the unification of two things-word and meaning, and word and world. So, it professes concern for the society and aims at bringing about a change for good," he says. Vishwanath, who has been honoured with the Vyas Sammann for his book Phir bhi kuch reh jayega in 2010, says he seeks inspiration from pain and suffering. "I seek inspiration from suffering of any kind and that translates into feelings, which later take the form of words," he says. As he talks about his future projects, he shares, "In this month, I will be releasing two books - one of which is a compilation of my daily dairy titled Din Rayen while the other one is a travelogue — Jo deekhta hai, jo dikhta nahi. Also, my autobiography titled Asti aur Bhawati (Being and Becoming) is being published and it will be out in six months." Vishwanath, who is also a critic, says, "The work of a critic, in many ways, is easy, but a critic is an ideologist. So, the toughest part about being a critic is to be objective and not let one's perspective be affected by ideology. One must review their subjects only with an eye on the content," he says. amarjot@tribunemaail.com
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Heart beats
What started as a friendly association has struck a chord with the viewers. Jasbir Jassi's Dhol is out and fetching a rousing response. The new album with five tracks celebrates the culture of Punjab a la Jassi style. The veteran singer, in Chandigarh, takes time out to chat up.
How did Dhol come about? I had almost given up Bhanga style when Sarina Jain insisted that I give her masala bhangra workout tunes, which have now been lapped up by health enthusiasts around the globe. I created a few keeping in mind how Americans would perceive the beats. Some of the songs stood out and we thought of taking them further. And here we are with Dhol; Sarina is very much part of it. How many songs are there in the album? There are five in all — Dhol, Nakhra, Aari aari, Patali patang and Gidhe vich. All lyrics are clean, minus any abuses, and celebrate rustic Punjabi flavour. The music is released with my own label JJ Music. How do you perceive Punjabi music scene today? I am embarrassed. The songs that are popular today are not only full of abuses, but also totally meaningless. What do Armani or Zara have to do in Punjabi songs? It's not like people just listen to our songs and eat our food! They want to know all about it. It gets pretty uncomfortable when someone asks the meaning of thesde lyrics from me. How do you intend to bring about a change? Everyone has the right to do what they like, but we can do good music and win audiences with it. I was discussing with Sardool Ji and Hans Ji that we also take things lying down — why not go aggressive with our music and make it popular? I am also working on Sufi and classical songs. Who do you like to listen to? I love listening to Shaukat Ali and Ghulam Ali Khan. With time my favourites keep changing. How about Bollywood? Are you singing any more songs for films? After Laung Da Lashkara, there was a barrage of songs that came my way. Some projects are on, but not many. Most of the songs that come my way have poor lyrics or horrible Punjabi grammar. Now I ask for the songs first, before I say yes. How about stage shows? What are the songs that you choose for them? I am doing lots of shows for festivals. I was at Cannes and International Film Festival of India, Goa. I do my popular songs and also some Sufi numbers. How was the response to Khushiyan? Do we see more of
you on screen? The movie did not do well in theatres, but many people saw it on DVDs and liked it. I thoroughly enjoyed doing the film. I will soon be seen with Gurdas Maan in a film. I took more than a year's training under NK Sharma Ji and am keen to do more films. How do you keep fit? Bhangra works the best for me. I like Sarina's style, it's fun and a good workout at the same time. What are your other interests? I am fascinated with photography. In fact, some of the shots in Dhol are done by me. What are you working on next? We will be out with our new single in a month's time. Now that I have a company of my own, I will be churning out more songs regularly. mona@tribunemail.com
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Fearless take
Women empowerment is one theme that's close to Vinita Sharma's heart. This artist from Chandigarh is troubled by the treatment the fairer sex is getting even today, but she is not the one to take things lying down. She expresses her concern through her canvas.
She has turned an art director with the film Tara the Journey of love and Passion, a film that has won accolades at various film festivals. The film took her to villages and made her face realities that we think have vanished from the civilised society that we are members of today. "We have dedicated the film Tara to Nirbhaya. Sadly, despite the outrage the nation witnessed, the instances of reported rapes have only increased," says Vinita. She adds, "We have to raise a voice. If we can have 'no smoking' boards and advertisements everywhere, why can't we use every possible platform to spread the message for the safety and honour of women?" she questions. This girl, who has studied in Sacred Heart and completed Bachelor of Fine Arts course from Chandigarh, values her current city Mumbai for the autonomy and safety it offers to women. "There is so much to do when it comes to state of women in Northern India. Mumbai is safe for a common girl; she can pursue her dreams there." Her second film as art director titled Yahan Amina bikti hai also addresses the issue of women empowerment. "Women who come out winners from their struggle would always be my heroes. I take inspiration from Arvind Kejriwal, who was just an ordinary man and has become the strongest man in country in a span of one year," says Vinita, whose paintings have been commissioned by groups like Taj, DLF, Anand and Radisson Hotels.
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Choc-o-bloc
Today being the Chocolate Day, here's where you can dig into the sweet-bitter temptation in Chandigarh. Right from chocolate cookies, bouquets, cupcakes, there are a variety of flavours to choose from. Ever thought of gold or silver plated chocolates? Well, taking inspiration from erstwhile Nawabs, The Chocolate Company at phase 9, Mohali has gold and silver plated chocolates available at Rs 90 and Rs 15 a piece, respectively. The completely edible chocolates are in attractive designs. "We have chocolates in 15 different fruit flavours, our liquid-filled and liquor chocolates are also worth a check out," says Tarundeep Singh. Cute chocolate cup-cakes, cookie sticks, French tarts with red hearts, Monika's is doling out all these and more. "Cute and small treats are what we have specially created for the Valentine's week, our chocolate cakes being the staple," shares Monika. It gets a little extra special for chocolate lovers at Nik Bakers as you get free Belgian chocolates on the purchase of every Rs 500. "We have special designer packing for the day with a variety of chocolate delights," says Nikhil Mittal. Do check out their chocolate bombs with alcohol in it. If you want to spend the Chocolate Day with you loved one, Choko la at Elante is the place. Right from chocolate pizza, to fondue to five flavours of hot chocolate.
Body beautiful
DIY Chocolate Day
Don the apron and dole out this yummy treat for your loved one… Espresso hot chocolate For: 4 to 5 servings What you need
Method: Heat the milk in a saucepan on medium heat to just below the simmering point. Remove the pan from the heat and add the chocolates. When the chocolates are melted, add the sugar, vanilla extract, and espresso and whisk vigorously. Reheat gently and serve immediately. Courtesy: Choko la |
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Give in to the temptation
After successfully making all shapes of chocolates and supplying for marriages and functions, the husband and wife team Reena and Mukesh now has gone into customised items where the chocolate pieces have the initials of the family members or to whom it is being gifted. Youngster Tina finds chocolate making very romantic and has named her collection as Romeo Chocolates. Though basically a western concept, this sweet has found lot of flavour with the Indian palette. Manju Dewan, a known culinary expert, has also joined the band wagon and has launched her line of DavateBite chocolates which are completely egg-less and comes in 22 different
flavours.
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Creative strokes
She has an irrepressible urge to paint. Come what may, she'll paint. The media and the surface only become secondary. The cups, tea pots, buckets, trunk boxes, plates, thapi (for washing clothes), glass bottles—every object becomes her muse. Aneesha Modi, she calls herself K. Aneesha, says that she can't restrict herself. "All the walls of my home are painted," she says.
The inspiration came from her parents, who never stopped her from painting on the walls. "That urge remained, and there was never a hesitation to paint, on any surface," she says. She learnt to paint all by herself. "I love using bright and bold colours in my works. I love bringing everyday products to life with art and turn these objects into things to be cherished," she says. Most of her art is interesting pop art. There is this painting of Buddha with the texture of leaves in the background that catches our attention. "These are real leaves I have used in the painting. So this looks very different and unique," she says. Mythology inspired Amar Singh's paintings draw inspiration from history and mythology. In one of his paintings, he depicts the death of Alexander the Great. A globe lies between his feet, while his hands are clutched by a skeleton depicting his desire to rule the world, and a sage holds a bowl of bubbles depicting life is like a bubble, as he died young. Another of his paintings shows Vishwamitra holding the Apsara sent by gods to distract him, as he is consumed by lust. A tree in the background is shown to be uprooted, depicting all his efforts and pain, went waste after being taken over by lust. This retired school teacher started painting in school and encouragement to do so, came when his friends appreciated his first painting of Guru Nanak Dev ji. Since then, even during his work as a schoolteacher, the artist kept on painting and now he has lost count of the number of paintings he has made. Revisiting folk tales Jaswinder Kaur, who is a teacher at a college, takes out time to paint. She is working on a series to bring back the forgotten folk tales of Punjab. "Our heritage is so rich, but not many artists have tried to present it through paintings after Sobha Singh. So, I paintings to bring out the folk tales on canvas,” she says.
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Get fashionable
'Fashion Yatra', a lifestyle exhibition, got off to a stylish start at Hotel Shivalikview, Sector 17, Chandigarh. The grand expo which is a celebration of womanhood on the eve of Valentine's Day will be on till February 9.
Sneh Infuatries, Mrignany, Vini, Kamala Hussain, Flaunt, Jart Studio, Padamshree Export, Seo lengha, Zenzee Decor, Ribbon & Bows, Sai Collections, Rubru, Kimz, Shoeleaf, London Chiks & Blakes, Rahul Singh, Parv Enterprises, Zoyas, Phulkari, Magic Holidays, Tarun, Bellissimo have brought exclusive pret and home decor items. — TNS
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Off the road
Audi, the German luxury car manufacturer, is set to provide a unique and thrilling experience with Audi Q- drive 2014 in Chandigarh. The event will give Audi enthusiasts a unique off-roading experience with Audi's Q series famous for it's 'Quattro' capabilities.
The event is held annually across all the dealer locations in India giving Audi enthusiasts an opportunity to experience the superlative style, performance and quattro technology of Audi SUVs - Audi Q7, Audi Q5 and Audi
Q3. — TNS
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star track Rohit Shetty is the Blockbuster Man! He talks about hosting a new adventure-based television show, his family, friends, and movie plans. Debut as host
I have done television before but this time it's different as I will be hosting for the first time. Initially, I was apprehensive about doing it since actors like Akshay Kumar and Priyanka Chopra had hosted the earlier seasons while I am just a director, I didn't want to look like a misfit. But the different and entertaining format made me feel that I could do justice to it. Besides hosting, I am also designing the stunts and safety measures for the show. I am enjoying it thoroughly. It's a new adventure. The thrill factor is that in films there are retakes but in this reality show there is none. Also, don't forget that all the contestants are not stunt artistes (smiles). Trying a different genre I don't mind making films without action. But the problem is people will not come to the theatres to see such a film. They will even question as why I did it. In short, by doing such films, I am trying to fulfill my audiences' dream. Safety at home The problem with my seven-year-old son is that action is in his DNA (laughs). He does somersaults and I can't do anything about it. I don't want to stop him by instilling fear in him but I try to tell him that this is not his age to do it and he needs to get proper training for it. Personal fears My fears are on the emotional level. I fear losing a loved one. I get worried if my son comes late from school. Apart from that, there may be other fears which I haven't discovered yet but I will in course of time. Success with SRK People feel that success has changed my equations with stars. But that's not true at all. I feel that I have remained the same. After Chennai Express' success, what has changed is that I have found a dear friend in Shah Rukh Khan.
Kunal to become Amitabh’s damaad
Here is some news that will break the hearts of many women. Actor Kunal Kapoor has got engaged to his long-time girlfriend, Naina Bachchan.
She is the daughter of Ajitabh Bachchan, brother of Amitabh Bachchan. The duo recently exchanged rings in a quiet ceremony comprising close friends and family members. Naina, who hails from Delhi, was an investment banker by profession before she quit and moved to Mumbai to be with her beau Kunal. They have been seeing each other for more than two years. Kunal was quoted telling the media that he's extremely happy. "Naina and I are together, and we are very happy and intend to keep it that way." Reportedly, the wedding date has also been decided.
Katrina, Ali Abbas patch up finally!
We all know how Ali Abbas Zafar has done a good job with Gunday and how the movie looks good even before it releases and all of that. But did you know that the original choice for the role of Priyanka Chopra was Katrina Kaif?
Apparently, Kat ditched Ali Abbas Zafar for Hrithik Roshan's Bang Bang. And naturally, Zafar, who was expecting her to say yes after becoming good friends with her after Meri Brother Ki Dulhan, was mighty disappointed. So much that the duo no longer had the same friendship that they once shared and Ali Abbas even started avoiding her at parties. But now, the duo has finally patched up, it seems. Katrina showed up at Zafar's birthday party that he threw recently. We hope that their friendship grows and blossoms.
On a writing spree
Ram-Leela writer duo Sidharth-Garima are writing a film for Neeraj Pandey which is based on national and social issues. They are also writing another one for Dinesh Vijan, who will make his directorial debut and yet another film which will star Saif Ali Khan.
Dolly’s designs for Haider
The costumes for Haider will be designed by Dolly Ahluwalia, who won a National Award last year for her turn in Vicky Donor. She has previously designed for Rockstar, Omkara and other films. The setting is Kashmir in the 1990s, so some outfits have been sourced while others have been created.
Chitrangda in a philosophical mood
Chitrangda Singh propagates the importance of education and supports the Shiksha campaign.
Importance of education There are different circumstances...not something that I would propagate or set as an example...education is extremely important. It's your buffer for the rest of your life. Sometimes, things happen and you don't get the time to do what you should do otherwise. It's not just the (acting) industry, you see a lot of industrialists too who give up education. Education opens the mind Education gives you another perspective and opens up your mind. You become intellectually stimulated. It motivates you to learn more and grow. And that is something you bring as an actor on screen as well. Teach by example You can teach by example. If parents are not sitting and watching TV all day or working on computers and go out and do something, kids will follow. We go fishing, sky diving, swimming or indulge in different kinds of sports.
Angry Arpita
Arpita Khan had ordered some furniture from a high-end brand as she is doing up Salman Khan's place. The furniture was worth lakhs of rupees. Not only was it not delivered on time but the company folks did not speak to her properly. She vented her ire on Twitter and has cancelled the order too.
Family guy
Arshad Warsi is shooting these days and he is always on the move. So, when he gets time, he likes to be at home and spend time with his wife and children instead of going out partying.
Maanayata undergoes surgery
Maanayata Dutt was operated for a non-malignant tumour and is now out of danger. She has been advised complete bed rest. She also had to cut her hair due to vitamin deficiency. Sanjay Dutt is out on parole to take care of her.
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chatter box
Playing the role of an angry young man, Ashish Sharma, who is seen as Rudura in Rangrasiya, has been garnering a lot of praise. The actor, who went to great lengths to get into the skin of the character, talks about his role and more.
What kind of response have you got for the show? The response has been very overwhelming; everyone has just been praising the show. The way it has been shot, the kind of cinematography and direction — you don't see it much on television. The whole cast is superb; so serious, so experienced. When you work with these actors, they exude this energy that makes you perform better. How is your equation with Sanaya? It is good; we have a good rapport and can talk comfortably. We have a nice comfort level; she is very receptive, so it works. Did you work very hard to get into the character? Yes; it needed a lot of hardwork because of the kind of layers that Rudra has. I have not lived such a life, so I had to work hard on it. Doing action in a serial must be fun? Yes, I am enjoying myself with the stunts and action sequences. Guys always want to do action and I am having fun handling guns. What does your wife think of your role? She is thrilled for me, as the role has so much depth and scope for performance.
On a funny note
It was time for some gundaraj on Sony TV's Comedy Circus Ke Mahabali when Ranveer Singh and Arjun Kapoor made a special appearance to promote their upcoming flick Gunday. Ranveer, as always, was at his exuberant best while Arjun was a witty parallel. Together they giggled, boogied and mimicked the who's who of Bollywood leaving everyone in splits. Be it the signature pose of King Khan, the famous towel dance of Salman Khan or killer moves of Hrithik Roshan, all were under the scrutiny of these extremely talented men. Not to forget, versatile comedians Bharti Singh, Krushna Abhishek, Mantra, Sudesh and Rajeev Thakur of Comedy Circus Ke Mahabali also set the stage blazing. Ranveer Singh, who had been on this popular show earlier as well, couldn't wait to get on to the stage yet again and surprise not only the judges but the audiences too. Both were at their mischievous best when they put on a show and did an extremely sensuous poll dance with none other than - Bharti Singh! The showbiz continued with the Gunday duo matching garba steps with Poorvi Joshi and Mantra. Ranveer was elated to see Poorvi making a comeback on the show. Ranveer was in for a pleasant surprise when comedians Balraj and Rajeev mimicked his romantic scenes from his last movie. The duo left no stone unturned to ensure that they embarrass him to the core! Get ready to watch the rib-tickling acts with Gunday - Ranveer Singh and Arjun Kapoor — on Comedy Circus Ke Mahabali on February 9, 2014, at 10 pm only on Sony Entertainment Television.
Mutual consent
While in arranged marriages a couple comes together with the dreams of spending a happy life together, Ye Hai Mohabbatein will see Raman and Ishita coming together only to secure the future of five-year-old Ruhi. Raman (Karan Patel) wants to win his daughter's custody at any cost while Ishita (Divyanka Tripathi), who cannot have a child of her own, loves Ruhi immensely!
Although Raman & Ishita detest each other, their coming together may be the only way that Ruhi can get a complete family, making Raman's case stronger and giving Ishita a chance at motherhood. Can the common love for a child be enough to keep two people bound in a lifelong relationship? What if Ishita and Raman still lose Ruhi's custody to Shagun? Despite all these questions, the two individuals have taken this huge decision. Stay tuned as Raman and Ishita discover their relationship while they fight for Ruhi's custody on Ye Hai Mohabbatein, every Monday to Saturday at 11 pm only on Star Plus!
Playing the mentor
VJ-turned actor Keith Sequeira will be seen in a special appearance in Star Plus' Diya Aur Baati Hum. Keith will play the role of a cycle-trainer CP Roy, who will motivate Sandhya (played by Deepika Singh) to perform better at the police training academy.
Keith says, "It's a three-episode special appearance. I will push Sandhya, to perform better." Many actors, including Manoj Bajpayee, Jimmy Shergill and Rahul Bose were approached for the role.
Traditional touch
Television's diva Sangeeta Ghosh, who portrays the role of Saanchi in Sony Entertainment Television's romantic saga Kehta Hai Dil Jee Lee Zara, recently wore Marathi bridal attire on her show. Sangeeta simply loved her beautiful orange and green saree with a golden border.
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Astro turf
ARIES: Relax with your mate in the evening. Someone you are attracted to at work feels the same way. It is for you to make the first move. Eat wisely as you can suffer from digestive problems.
Tarot message: Take limited risks while speculating. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 55.
TAURUS: Today is an exciting day. Conquer your fear and take a chance to live reality. You can be worried about certain family issues and need time to sort things out. There can be delays in personal projects. Tarot message: Outline your goals ahead of time.
Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 28. GEMINI: 'The Queen of Pentacles' blesses you with the finest qualities today. Things happen quickly and you need to take sharp decisions. Be quick to catch opportunities. Children will be a source of joy. Tarot message: Don't accept situations you dislike.
Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 34. CANCER: There is good news on the cards. You will be in a relaxed and happy mood. If you need to make any personal decisions, go with your gut feel. Be wary of purchasing things online.
Tarot message: A bird in hand is worth more than two in the bush. Lucky
colour: Orange. Magic number: 36. LEO: The wisdom of 'The Hermit' inspires you to make new beginnings and move in a creative direction. Spending time with family will bring about a sense of peace and well-being.
Tarot message: Beware of depleting your energy or resources on others. Lucky colour: Green.
Magic number: 46. VIRGO: 'The Magician' conjures up some travel and business opportunities. Partnerships, business problems, past disappointments - all need your attention today. Stop waiting for the right time to attend to them.
Tarot message: Trust your heart and intuition. Lucky colour: Sky blue. Magic number: 54.
LIBRA: It is a good time to make a public speech or presentation. Business deals are on the boil, but still inconclusive. Work will progress satisfactorily. By the evening, you can be in an irritable mood. Tarot message: Avoid friction with business partners.
Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 62. SCORPIO: It looks like a very busy day ahead, but any indulgence of previous evening will be catching up with you. Your chances of success are better today than ever before. Don't depend on others. Tarot message: Be firm and stand your ground.
Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 59. SAGITTARIUS: Don't trust unreliable friends or relatives. Travelling will yield valuable information. Try breathing exercises for relaxation and some meditation to keep yourself calm as well as composed.
Tarot message: Don’t fall for rash promises. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 52. CAPRICORN: Today mixing with friends can be tricky business. If you don't want to be alone, choose a companion who is least likely to irritate you. Don't get involved in petty arguments with your mate or partner. Tarot message: Consolidate your gains.
Lucky colour: Grey. Magic number: 58. AQUARIUS: Passionate emotions are likely to accompany your actions and you will be more impulsive than usual. You will have a better chance of getting through odd jobs connected with home and family affairs today. Tarot message: Lack of confidence can leave you in losses. Lucky colour: Rust. Magic number: 45. PISCES: 'The Hanged Man' helps you move into a new and better situation. Spirituality beckons and you are inclined to finding out more. You will struggle to keep your temper in check today. Tarot message: Focus on your dream project.
Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 56
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The year ahead
If your birthday is February 9...
You will be given a salary hike or promotion. If you have your own business, you will receive priceless publicity in the media. You will try to make your family happy, but will get no credit for that. You will be misunderstood by the people around you and even your loved ones will fail in the task of understanding you. Risk related to money should be avoided at all costs. Keeping a positive approach toward life will help you dealing with the tough times in a better way. Students should continue putting their hundred per cent. Positive colours: Golden, Red, White, Yellow, Cream. Select days: Tuesday, Friday, Thursday. Favourable numbers: 3, 6, 9. Gems recommended: Red Coral, Yellow Sapphire.
You share your birthday with Amrita Singh (February 9, 1958, New Delhi), daughter of Shivinder Singh and Rukshana Sultana. She is the niece of Khushwant Singh. Amrita Singh gave up her career as an actress after she married Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan. Now she is divorced.
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If one has to zero down on the food of love, chocolates will win hands down. While the love birds (or love-less ones) gorge on chocolates year along, on this Valentine's week, chocolates gain extreme supremacy.
Out of all the divine food stuffs to appease the sweet-tooth, chocolate in its various forms has always turned out to be the winner. February 9 is commemorated as the Chocolate Day.
Charity on birthday: Donate wheat and gur to the needy or at any religious place today.