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Resplendent Kangana
Queen hits the marquee in March and its protagonist is comfortable in her skin. Dressed in black and blue, perfect hairdo in place and golden black gloves catching the fancy of every woman present in the hall, Kangana looks effortless in her appearance and manner. How did the film happen? “Anurag Basu suggested my name to director Vikas Bahl.” When the director approached her for the protagonist’s role, Kangana was surprised. Here was a character that this fierce woman couldn’t relate to at all. A girl, who couldn’t stand up for herself, was busy pleasing others; at least to begin with — Kangana in real life is a complete opposite! “I wondered why Vikas would want me to play such a girl!” Kangana researched well, till she could be the girl her director wanted her to be. So is she a rebel? “Well, I am, but not without a cause. I feel it is quite all right to follow rules. At the same time, there is no harm in making your own.” So how has she managed to be on-off female actor to have a film all to herself in this male-centric industry? “I guess I am loved. There are many other female actors who act as well as I do or even better. I still wonder how I land up with these roles, my films work well when some better ones don’t and the amount of money I am offered is amazing.” For one, she has followed her heart. “I struggled like everyone else initially. With time, I have matured and am pretty comfortable in the place I am,” says Kangana flashing her ‘oh-so-beautiful’ smile. And it is not just about herself that she speaks. On being praised for her straight answers on a particular show, she credits the host. “It was she (Anupama Chopra) who asked me such amazing questions. I am not for shows that encourage bickering about co-stars,” says Kangana. Is the reference to the Karan Johar show? “I don’t watch many shows. I have been on Karan’s shows and he did not instigate me to talk negatively about anyone,” she puts the house back in order again. Back to Queen, “It is a travel story as the protagonist travels through Europe. There is an emotional story in it that you have to come and watch,” says our ‘queen’ not forgetting to put in many good words about PVR for the excellent experience they provide to cine-goers. And, she does mention loving Chandigarh and Mohali, for having studied here, and her roots that are in Himachal Pradesh. mona@tribunemail.com
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In the poetic lanes
He has named himself 'Shaad' — that's Urdu for 'happy'. His Punjabi name also has a similar meaning for Khushbir Singh Shaad's countenance, his diction, wide smiles, portly persona and rather unrestrained laughter, which all radiate happiness. The businessman always remained poet and ghazal writer, and then finally succumbed to the passion for poetry, giving up business at Lucknow. Currently based in Jalandhar, he is penning his poetry full-time.
The love for poetry that started in his teenage grew stronger as he went past his youth. The passion surged, the urge to dive deeper into poetry and have a deeper connect with the language made the poet in him learn the Urdu script at the ripe age of forty. And now he has as many as nine books of Urdu poetry to his name. Beneath his cheerful persona is a contemplating poet. There is no particular subject for a poet, he says, as he writes about all he experiences, observes and feels. Ghazal is his favourite literary form, for apart from touching various facets of life in a single ghazal, a single couplet is a complete form in itself, he says. Apart from his visits to mushairas in Pakistan and the US, he has visited several other countries. Says the jovial poet, "More people know me for poetry abroad rather than in India." His poetry has been lent a voice by singers as well. Rafakhat Ali Khan, Laila Ali, across the border, and Hariharan, Kavita Seth here have sung his lines. The title song of Mahesh Bhatt's film Dhokha also has a song based on his poetry. Some of his couplets are popular all over. "Yeh tera taaj nahi hai, Hamari Pagri hai, Yeh sar ke saath hi utregi," is one of his most popular couplets. Mahesh Bhatt has often been heard reciting the poet. "Kyu apni tarah jeene ka Andaaz chhod de, kya hai hamare paas is andaaz ke siva." Although he has been going to some of the mushairas, Shaad says poetry is deeper and not something direct. “It is the language of the heart and emotion; it takes time to be perceived at a deeper level. So mushairas don't serve the purpose for deeper, more contemplative poetry. Poetry at mushairas is meant for easier understanding, performance and getting immediate response from the audience. It is like fast food, for immediate consumption, so poetry gets subdued" says the poet. In India, the culture of mushairas is rising whereas in Pakistan it is lessening. He believes that true poetry is an expression of the heart. "A poet doesn't write to please. If others get impressed with his poetry, it's a bonus," he says. gurvinder@tribunemail.com
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Flying high
The Wright brothers definitely did something ‘right’ when they invented the first flying machine and like everything else, this flying machine evolved too. Now, aviation has become a part of the national security measures, a major medium of transportation, full-fledged career option and is a source of entertainment. The latest series on Discovery Turbo, The Aviators, takes you behind the scenes to reveal how airline pilots train, how planes are built and how ATC works. In conversation with Anthony Nalli, an acclaimed television presenter, producer and a commercial pilot, who is the driving force behind the series, we find out that aviation is all about passion.
“The Aviators is back for a third season with fascinating stories. You will either love aviation or not think about it at all,” says Anthony, who calls aviation his passion. “My house was located near an airport and even when I was a child, I was really fascinated by the aeroplanes. My first job too was at the airport in a duty-free shop, when I was in my early teens,” he smiles. Regarding his best experience, he says, “It has to be the time when we were filming the Blue Angles of the US Navy; I was extremely overwhelmed to see them so closely.” Anthony shares that for him, to narrate stories about aviation is the best way to retrospect and improvise. “We make it a point to share the bad experiences as well, so that we analyse where we went wrong and how not to make those mistakes in the future,” he says. “Also the fundamentals of flying any plane are more or less the same, but one’s got to experience the moment when the plane takes off and pulls away from the ground. It’s a whole new world of possibilities and it really needs to be explored. I think everyone, in their lifetime, must try to fly a plane and experience the feeling. There’s nothing like it.” When asked about his dream flying machine, Anthony says, “It is Corsair and I have not yet got a chance to fly it, but I would love to someday!” amarjot@tribunemail.com
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Right moves
In Panchkula to talk about the International Salsa Festival, Terence owes every morsel of his existence to the dance. First things first — The Salsa International Festival! “Since I don’t have any academy here, I only do workshops that I enjoy conducting. Contestants selected through this event will get admitted to my training academy,” he says, opening the conversation on a hopeful note. Terence, who is known for his contemporary dance, is also a judge in reality dance show, Dance India Dance. And who doesn’t know the moves that he choreographed for Bollywood films Lagaan, Naach and recently Ram Leela—Goliyon Ki Ras Leela? “Dance works as a stress buster for me; it should flow in your system, only then can you feel it and move accordingly. First, I have to enjoy the day and then will the actors or anyone else,” says Terence, on how he choreographs the songs. jasmine@tribunemail.com
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That 70’s magic
Gunday is an action crime thriller film, written and directed by Ali Abbas Zafar and produced by Aditya Chopra. The film features Ranveer Singh and Arjun Kapoor in the lead roles while Priyanka Chopra and Irrfan Khan appear in supporting roles. The film starts off in the 1970s, with young Bikram and Bala, who live on the wrong side of the law, becoming gun carriers and coal bandits. Interesting bromance It's not a very bad film, but I did not like the plot of the story very much. However, the bromance between Arjun and Ranveer is pretty entertaining. Also, the dialogues of the film. It's a good one-time watch! It's fun I like the movie mainly because of Ranbeer Singh and Arjun Kapoor. They both look so stunning in their 70’s look with bell-bottoms! It's an entertaining Bollywood masala film that gives you all that it promises-entertainment! Full of spice I liked the film very much. It is very entertaining and I like the way both, Arjun Kapoor and Ranveer Singh have acted in the film. It's an entertaining masala movie. — As told to Amarjot Kaur
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A touch of Kashmir
Kandla Nijhowne If you are tired of eating the same old palak paneer made in the same old style, do it with a touch of Kashmir. I first sampled this flavourful dish at the Nageen Club in Srinagar and simply flipped for it. The combination is a killer. Chaman in Kashmiri is paneer. It's cooked with fresh methi leaves and often with some spinach too. Kashmiri chilli powder and dry ginger powder add the authentic Kashmiri touch. Crumbled paneer is also an interesting texture instead of the familiar cubed paneer. Try this Kashmiri version to surprise your family. I'm sure it will be at the top of your hit list! Hariyali paneer chaman
Method
Note: Sugar is added to the dish to neutralise the bitterness of methi. Cream adds richness and a velvety texture. Both are optional. (Nijhowne is a Chandigarh-based culinary expert)
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Jodi makers
While talking about the pre-requisites of participating in the competition, Kapil Sharma, chief operating officer of the company, says, "This year the contest will be conducted for young couples in the age group of 25 years to 35 years, they can be married couples, unmarried couples or even friends or brothers or brothers and sisters for that matter." He adds, "The contest will be spreading across the key cities of Punjab, including Jalandhar, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Bhatinda, Patiala and tri-city. In these towns, interested couples will be selected from each city, depending on their performance from local rounds. They will perform in the second round to compete against finalists in each city for a slot in the grand finale." Meanwhile, Prem Ojha, shares, "Couples can participate in these cities at auditions to be held at housing societies, shopping malls, clubs and offices on weekends, starting on February 15. The couples will be judged on the basis of their compatibility, unique talent and confidence. Two couples will be selected from each audition round through on-ground activities by a panel of judges for the next round. People interested can register online at www.connectzone.in/superjodi. —TNS
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Screen presence
LG Electronics has showcased revolution that created waves in the world and is here to take India by surprise. Setting a new milestone in the evolution of the smart screen, LG has announced the arrival of world's first LG Curved OLED TV, the 55EA9800.
The industry's very first curved screen LG 55" Curved OLED TV features a path breaking ergonomic design with full Cinema 3D support, cinematic experience and proprietary WRGB technology. The incredibly thin display has a gentle inward flex design, removing the problem of screen-edge visual distortion and detail loss. Lokendra Lal, regional manager (Group Punjab & Haryana), LG India, said, "We are proud to present LG Curved OLED TV. India is a strategic market for LG and we are the first company to launch the curved OLED TV in this market. The unique and immersive curved design will provide consumers with an ultimate viewing experience. We have initiated a wave of groundbreaking innovation for the industry and also created a milestone for ourselves." —TNS
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Retail therapy
Firing squad
Saif Ali Khan has fired his manager Zahid Khan after the two had an argument. He had warned him previously but fired him earlier this week. Zahid also manages Kareena Kapoor Khan’s work. Sonakshi Sinha also fired him recently.
House of fame
Phoolghat in Kolkata is the place where a lot of portions of Gunday were shot, especially at a house which has now been named Bikram Bala Sadan and will be opened as a tourist attraction after the film releases.
Bonding over food
The entire team of Humshakals bonded over food. The actors got home-cooked and healthy food for the cast members and they took turns so that everybody got to try different cuisines.
Winner all the way
Vidyut Jamwal won the Umeed ka Naya Chehra award at Zee Cine Awards for his role in Commando. He is the only action hero and action choreographer who has carved a niche for himself.
Game point
Dhoom 3: The Game has crossed 10 million downloads in just three months of its release. It was released exclusively for Windows 8 and is now available on other platforms too.
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I think critics should chill: Divya
Actress Divya Khosla Kumar, who recently debuted as a director with youth film Yaariyan, is excited about the success of her film. In an exclusive interview, she talks about the success, bad reviews and more...
How do you feel about the success of your film? I am very happy. I had put a lot of hard work in the film. Everybody puts hard-work in their film but I am glad that I could connect to the audience. I think as a filmmaker, it is the biggest achievement that I could connect to the youth as they were my target audience. Keeping their taste and lifestyle in mind, I had made this film especially for today's youth. Did you expect the film to do even better? When I started working on this film, I knew it in the back of my head that this film would do well at the box-office. I knew what I was doing. Considering the fact that the film includes no brand name or big stars, I think we have done exceedingly well. Moreover, critics were not appreciative towards our film. Still our film, which was made with a small budget, collected over Rs 40 crores at the box-office. It has done better than Dedh Ishqiya. I am very happy with the response. What do you think worked in your favour? There are many factors. We had entirely new faces and the story was fresh. The music was good too and there was a whole buzz going on ever since we realised the trailer. Also the fact that it was T-series second home production after Aashiqui 2. Some movie critics didn't really like your film. Do you have any message for them? I don't think critics go for entertainment. If they did, they wouldn't give bad ratings to entertaining films. But the audience has a mind of their own. Most movies that are made in Bollywood are masala films. But maybe critics have a responsibility as they look for a message or want to study art. However, the audience likes to relax. They want to forget about their worries and watch movies that entertain them. I think critics should chill out. Do you find it challenging to be a female director in a male dominated industry or have you not been affected by that? Honestly speaking, I haven't really been affected by that. In fact, I had many male fans writing to me and pointing out that some people didn't appreciate the film because I am a female. I don't think it really matters. Most of my crew members were male and I have been very comfortable working with them all. I never felt that I was a female or they were male. But I would love to see more female directors getting in commercial cinema. Have you considered getting back to acting? I have been asked this question many times. But honestly speaking, I have no plans of getting back to acting now. I am creatively satisfied with what I am doing. Who are the actors you would like to work with? There are many actors I would like to work with. But I don't know if we will get to work together. To me, my script is my biggest star. If my script demands, I would be more than happy to cast them in my film. For instance, I love Amitabh Bachchan's acting. Priyanka Chopra and Ranbir Kapoor are some of talented people we have in Bollywood. What's next for you? I am currently brainstorming on my film. As soon as it's over, I will start casting for it and begin hunting for locations. I hope it will go on floors soon.
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Dutta to play a psychologist
She bagged accolades for Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. Now, Divya Dutta will be seen in a totally new avatar in Balaji’s forthcoming Ragini MMS-2.
In a brief but important part, Dutta plays a sexy psychologist who returns from the US to India to resolve the mysterious case of Ragini. Sunny and Divya shot together for four days and became good friends. So, much so that Sunny paid her a compliment that she was too sexy to be playing When Divya was offered the role, she accepted it because she had never featured in a film of a HORREX (horror and sex) genre and because the original (released in 2010) had scored well at the box office.
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The fun just grows!
check mate: A still from Comedy Nights With Kapil
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Right moves
Akshat Singh, 8, who danced his way to the semi-finals of India's Got Talent, has been invited to be part of The Ellen DeGeneres Show in the US. Apparently, an international news channel put up a clip of his dance moves and that drew the attention of Ellen's team.
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Rap ‘n’ roll
Alok Nath, who became a trend on Twitter recently, has come up with a video celebrating the concept of Valentine's Day. He will be seen rapping with girls dancing around him in a spoof video. Seems like he has taken the whole Babuji jokes in the right spirit!
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Astro turf
ARIES: Be true to your ideals. Monetary issues can dictate what you need to concentrate on. A secret arrangement comes to light. Public meeting: think before you speak. It is a good day for speculation.
Tarot message: Forget the past and start afresh. Lucky colour: Olive. Magic number: 58.
TAURUS: The simple things in life will bring joy today. Do not take on too much, but enjoy working through your chores one by one. A health issue can worry you. Don't procrastinate in getting a diagnosis. Tarot message: Trust your heart and intuition.
Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 46. GEMINI: A tough day; be alert, aware and dynamic. Postpone work that requires concentration and physical effort. Step back and take several deep breaths before you say something you will regret.
Tarot message: You need to act for yourself and for no one else. Lucky
colour: Ivory. Magic number: 36. CANCER: It is a satisfactory day for working mothers. You will have difficulty getting along with associates. Think twice before giving in. Money matters can take a turn for the better.
Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health. Lucky colour: Lavender.
Magic number: 55. LEO: The outcome of a lawsuit can be postponed due to matters out of your hands. You should not hesitate to shop around for a better deal. Those employed will be given special assignment with handsome incentives. Tarot message: Bury an old quarrel and move on.
Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 32. VIRGO: If you don't expect the day to run smoothly, prepare yourself. If you are travelling, give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination. It is not a day for property deals or legal proceedings.
Tarot message: Do not be in the rush to spend extravagantly. Lucky
colour: Red. Magic number: 45. LIBRA: A friend will need your support and you will need to put off an engagement to help him or her through a period of heartache or anguish. Romance can become rather disturbing. No pain no gain.
Tarot message: Do not leave things to chance. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 25. SCORPIO: Do not be concerned about your business deals. They probably won't be finalised right away. Should a friend ask you for a loan, be cautious. Do not speculate today.
Tarot message: Don't get embroiled in long-term ventures. Lucky colour: Orange.
Magic number: 30. SAGITTARIUS: Politicians or bureaucrats are in the limelight. Today there are good opportunities to increase your earnings. Keep your celebrations moderate. Bankers will give you the benefit of their advice.
Tarot message: Follow your path. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 63. CAPRICORN: Strange undercurrents at home can give rise to all sorts of drama. 'The Night Princess' reveals a fairly active morning for the children. Students: park your vehicle carefully and obey traffic rules. Tarot message: Handle your projects carefully.
Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 27. AQUARIUS: You definitely do not appreciate a friend's interference. A neighbour has some gossip to divulge to you. Make sure you really want to hear secrets about someone. Health will give no worry to you. Tarot message: Polish your public relations skills.
Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 57. PISCES: Do not fear bad luck. This is a fortunate day for married lovers. Working women: take proper care of your child's health. A re-union or welcome home party will be fun.
Tarot message: Don't let opposition scare you. Lucky colour: Lime green.
Magic number: 31.
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The year ahead
If your birthday is February 15...
The year 2014 will broaden your horizons. The emphasis is on long distance travel; if you've been hiding at home, this is the year to get packing as unprecedented adventure awaits you. Life is sure to take you on some important journeys.You will also get a chance to expand your business and this will help increase your earnings. Positive colours: White, Sea green, Cream, Light blue. Select days: Friday, Thursday, Tuesday. Favourable numbers: 5, 6. Gems recommended: Diamond, Emerald, Lapis Lazuli Charity on birthday: Donate utensils to the needy or at any religious place today.
You share your birthday with Randhir Kapoor (February 15, 1947, Mumbai), who is the eldest son of Raj Kapoor. His brothers are Rishi Kapoor and RajivKapoor. His wife is actress Babita; his daughters are current stars Karisma Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor. He will shine as a producer in 2015.
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For one, she’s always perfectly turned up. Also, she does not shy away from making her own choices. Kangana Ranaut arrived perfectly poised for the opening of PVR, touted as the largest multiplex of Punjab, at Mohali, on Friday. Queen’s promos followed PVR’s, as Kangana kept cool — the standee was fixed at the last moment, shutterbugs clicked her every move and journalists asked some comfortable as also some ‘not-so-comfortable’ questions.
There is some harmony in the way he moves, talks and even laughs; this is pretty much expected from the stylish choreographer Terence Lewis. He doesn’t break into a dance move at the drop of a hat, but he definitely has all the answers ready, which sway and move the way he wants them to, in quite a contemporary format.
1 cup cubed paneer
As relationships are all about connecting, Videocon Telecom and Connect Broadband announced the Videocon Connect Super Jodi, the mega contest on Friday. "This will be a two-month long event and it will open the doors for all contestants who are willing to showcase their talent, and thereby giving a chance to win an all-paid luxurious and exotic foreign trip," says Prem Ojha, vice-president of the company.
Sridevi and her elder daughter Janhvi bond over fashion. They were spotted shopping together at a popular mall in suburban Mumbai, making the best of sale season!
After eyeing a lot of men, Bua of Comedy Nights With Kapil has finally found her soulmate. All she ever wanted to do was to find a 'phupha' for Kapil and this weekend her Prince Charming is none other than ace comedian Razzak Khan. Portraying the role of a 'Golden Bhai', he will be seen falling head over heels in love with Bua. Wanting to make her his own, he bribes Kapil so that he approves of the marriage. Well, looks like Bua will never have to say 'Kaun hai Yeh Aadmi' ever again after this weekend!