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Feminine touch
The inspiration could trickle from the smallest of sources and yet could reflect in the strongest of ways. A bird, a building or even her own self; designer Mandira Wirk believes in putting varied things in the garments she creates. While the inspiration could be right from, "fabrics to colours to even a wall paper," what binds them all together is the underlying philosophy of feminism.
"I always believe that no matter what you wear or create, the feminity must come out," she shares, while in Chandigarh for the launch of her collection at Adaah Couture, House of Shri Gurudev. "I must be showcasing at least 130 to 140 pieces from my collections. In fact, my Delhi store is shut and the stocks have been routed here," she puts the emphasis on the place and takes the opportunity to bring in her strong roots in the region. "I was born in Jalandhar and keep coming back to the region. I am very deep-rooted in Punjab and try to reflect it often in my creations. Last time, I did a parandi in my collections."
Up next
While the former collections borrowed from the likes of exquisite architecture of Rajasthan, coming up is something she can literally call an extension of herself. "My next collection for the upcoming fashion week is titled Ombre, which means reflection is French." She adds, "I am my own inspiration for this collection because I'd often have people come to me and compliment on what I was wearing. So I thought why not put something that just reflects my philosophy and sensibilities." Translating her self onto final creations was rather easy than intricate. "Often the inspiration is the destination where you have been or the like, but this came very naturally to me because it's me."
Star showstoppers
Designers have often wanted celebrities to sport their creations, but whether they should do it on the day of reckoning has often been a moot point among the fashion fraternity. Esha Gupta, Malaika Arora Khan, Saif Ali Khan; it must have been a challenge to match the creations with the showstoppers. "I keep a few things in mind while deciding on the showstopper. Their personality must blend in with my style. They do take the limelight, but then Bollywood is big. The entire exercise should be justice done to the clothes as well as the wearer."
Warming up
Rahul Mishra's Woolmark win in Milan has given something to the industry to talk about. "We are so proud of him. We've always aped the West, but right now it's wonderful to see how they are getting excited about all things Indian — right from bindi to turbans to motifs."
Trendy summer
A query on the summer trends invites a much wanted distinction between trends and classics. "In summer, one can never go wrong with whites, pinks and peaches. They will always be in. Goes without saying, this season too, these colours will rule." She adds, "Apart from that a lot of pop colours will be in this season too. Look forward to certain shades of yellow, green and beiges." Point noted!
manpriya@tribunemail.com
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Blast from the past
There is certainly something compelling and substantial about theatre; perhaps the reason why television actors Mitali Nag and Ashok Kumar Banthia could never completely detach from this medium. They are in Chandigarh to stage the play Mohenjodaro at the Tagore Theatre along with writer-producer Akashaditya Lama and director Kulvinder Baksshish, who are all part of Mumbai-based theatre group Big Bang Theatres.
Akashaditya Lama, who has penned down as many as 3,000 television shows, thought of the script of Mohenjodaro when he was only 17. He shares, "I thought of scripting this play in 1992, during the time of the Ayodhya dispute. Born to a Bengali mother and a Tibetan father, I have always questioned the futility of drawing mental barriers based on caste, religion and region. So, this play is basically set in the Indus Valley civilisation era; no one has ever attempted a story like this. It is also about love, power and battles." Adds Kulvinder, the director, "This play is about power, war and love, but most of all it is a visual treat. We have included various forms of martial arts in this play, including Thang Ta of Manipur and Chhau dance of Odisha. So this makes it a total theatre, which has physical theatre, drama, music (parts of it has live music) and it's all very visually appealing." Justifying the title of the play, Akashaditya explains, "As there is no data about Mohenjodaro in writing and only two statues, one of a man with a full-grown beard and other of a dancing girl, I characterised them as the actors of my script." He adds, "While Mitali plays the role of Sugandha, the princess of Mohenjodaro, Ashok plays the role of her father, Kurav, a leader from Mohenjodaro. The story revolves around the love triangle between Sugandha, Inder (Aryan invader), played by me, and Akshat (Mohenjodaro warrier)." Ashok, who has been acting for as many as forty years, says, "This play has a language of its own and that defines it as a masterpiece. We have taken this play to several theatre festivals, including Kalidas Samaroah and Nadikar Theatre Festival. Also, what I like about the play is that I can appreciate it as an actor and audience." Mitali, who has acted in many television serials, including Afsar Bitiya and Khoobsurat, says, "Kulvinder got me to Big Bang Theatre group. The fact that there are no retakes in theatres challenges my capacity as an actor and perhaps that is why I keep coming back to
it." amarjot@tribunemail.com
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Cat call
Poonam Bindra
"It is not we, but they who have adopted us," share Meeta and Maneesh Roy, as they talk fondly of Muffin and Sugar, their tom cats! Maneesh, who is an Air Force officer, and his wife are concerned about stray animals and it is a routine for them to pick up injured stray cats and dogs, nurse them and then release them. However, there was this little kitten that refused to go and it has stayed put since two years now. As she was feeling lonely, the couple picked up another little one from the street and since then Sugar and Muffin are the best of friends. "We were very apprehensive as to how Muffin would take to the little but to our amazement he almost adopted Sugar and both would cuddle together," says Meeta. It seems the adage 'fighting like cats and dogs' is not so true according to their experience. "We keep on getting stray dogs to treat them and these two have never shown any hostility towards them," says Muneesh. So they feel that it is no big deal keeping cats and dogs together as pets. "As cats are predators and dogs are scavengers, the cats are quite independent. There is no need to bathe them or take them for walks," she adds. Contrary to the belief that cats are not so loving, Muffin and Sugar seem to be quite attached to their masters and when the children, Raghav and Tanisha, came back from school, they are greeted by the duo with affection. Even in the family, they have their favourites-Muffin likes to cuddle up to Muneesh while Sugar likes it more with Meeta and the kids. Very fond of the regular cat food, Royal Canon, they also like to eat fish and chicken bones. Adept at grooming themselves, they have their litter box in which they go and ease themselves. "Since we are in a transferrable job, pets who move with us give the children a sense of stability," says Muneesh. Looking so regal, Muffin and Sugar sure complement the happy picture of the family.
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Adventure zone
If you feel like breaking the monotony, want to let some fresh air to hit your head hard, you can just drive down to the new Ramgarh Golf Range. A new property launched by The Fort Ramgarh, Castle Group, this place that just a few kilometers ahead of The Fort Ramgarh could throw in some change.
A new adventure destination, this Golf Range has little bit of everything. It is not strictly a hard-core adventurous getaway, but someone who wants to have a touch and go with some daring acts, this is the place. A Burma bridge, quad bikes, trampoline, zorbing ball…you might like to engage in one of the few activities. The place also encourages one to pursue some sports. A mini golf range, table tennis, table soccer, ball pot game, archery, shooting range, there is something for every one. Rajiv Chalana, general manager, The Fort Ramgarh, who is a sports enthusiast himself, would like to call this place as a sports destination that can be altered with adventure. "Ramgarh Golf Range is a place where one can relax and rejuvenate. An entertainment zone, it has so many activities to look forward to. It is a paradise for the sports enthusiasts." In case we forget to mention, after your game, you can dig into some relishing snacks.
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Just Beat it!
Groove with the likes of Sonu Nigam, Shweta-Shradha Pandit and many more this Sunday, March 2 at Parade Grounds, Sector 17, Chandigarh.
Be ready to groove away at the world's first and only Bollywood Electro Music Festival - Bollyboom which is being presented by Kingfisher Premium! Enjoy an evening filled with plenty of good times and jam to the exciting performances by Sonu Nigam, Gippy Grewal, Shweta & Shradha Pandit, DJ Lloyd and many more artistes. Top it all with the never-dry taps of Kingfisher beer and dance the evening
away! — TNS
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Leisure period
Come, step into the world of luxurious experience at JW Marriott Chandigarh at a special price of
Rs 9,500 (all inclusive) onwards till December 31. This undoubtedly, is the perfect leisure getaway you can ever get.
'The Exceptional Getaway & Incredible Stay' package offers guests breakfast and lunch/dinner for two at Café@JW with complimentary meals on the house for kids below 12 years. Guests can also avail a 20 per cent discount on food and soft beverage, spa and laundry. What's more? Guests have easy access to high speed internet as well.
— TNS
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Serious side of Kapil
Kapil Sharma is the darling of television today and his show has touched new heights. He has had his share of controversies too and is now making a film debut with
YRF. He talks about his show and clears some controversies. Weekly show
That's true. The original plan for Comedy Nights was a 26-episode run without a break after which we would evaluate our next step. The response was so overwhelming that we continued to roll. But having a bi-weekly show is too much of pressure. Besides being the host, I am the show's producer too and involved with every creative aspect of it. I can't let the quality fall. Now that I have signed a film, it will be difficult to devote so much time to the show. I have communicated my decision to the channel. I hope they understand and take a call. No problem with Sunil
I don't know who started this rumour that Sunil Grover and I had problems. In fact, he called me on Monday when he heard that I had a back problem. We still talk, and very warmly too. What more do I need to say to put this controversy to rest once and for all? The reason he left my show was because he was getting many attractive offers and decided to move on. Cent per cent desi
Mad in India lacks charm. It was promoted as Guthi's show, but it has far more characters than I have in my show. Sunil had a better platform with me. There was something special when we worked together. I even had a chat with him on this before he left. Problem zone
I have a back problem which tends to recur every six months. I had been shooting through the night and headed straight to the stadium for the Celebrity Cricket League. I needed a place to change. I was asking simply for the basic amenities. Then, my back pain aggravated and I was forced to leave. The next day the headlines were screaming,
'Kapil ne liya Salman se panga.' Baap re!
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I’ll take right advantage of the goodwill I’ve earned: Aamir
Actor-filmmaker Aamir Khan, who is geared up for the new season of his social issues-related TV show Satyamev
Jayate, says he wants to continue to take the right advantages of being a celebrity, who is so loved by his fans.
"If a celebrity does some work, there is more attention. But the audience is very sharp, they understand everything. Whatever goodwill I have earned over the years, I'll (always) take the right advantage of it. I hope many more celebrities do it...the more the better," Aamir said. The actor is tight-lipped about the topics that he will touch upon in the second season of Satyamev
Jayate, which goes on air Sunday with a simulcast in six languages across Star Plus, Star World, Star
Pravah, Star Vijay, Asianet, Star Utsav and Doordarshan. There will also be a deferred telecast on ETV
Telegu. Asked if he will raise the issue of a 23-year-old woman who was gang-raped in a moving bus by five men and a minor in the Capital, Aaamir said: "We don't discuss our topics. So I can't talk about it.
— IANS
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Yami supports Food for Soul campaign
There isn't enough food for everyone in the country and now actress Yami Gautam endorses Food for Soul campaign, which aims at feeding the underprivileged.
Initiated by online food ordering platform Foodpanda along with non-profit organisation Uday Foundation, the campaign encourages patrons to generously feed the lesser privileged.
Foodpanda patrons can log on to the website and make a donation to a listed food item like foodgrains, pulses, vegetable oil and biscuits. The portal will then forward the proceedings to the charitable institution, thus reaching out to many children. "The Food for Soul campaign sensitises us towards the fact that there are many who are not even fortunate enough to get a basic square meal a day. Through this campaign, Foodpanda.in reminds us to share the joy we feel on eating great food with the less privileged," Yami said. The campaign backs Uday Foundation's project Santushti, which runs a free food van to serve wholesome food to families of the underprivileged patients in ICUs of government hospitals. The van also feeds children who come from distant places to Delhi hospitals for treatment.
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A fresh face
Claire Castilino has recently made an entry into Sahara One's popular show Rishton Ke Bhanwar Main…Niyati, which is at a very interesting stage. She is playing an intense character called Sharmila. We catch up with Claire.
How did you bag this role? People from the channel approached me for an audition and my name was shortlisted for the show. I initially thought it was a new show, but only later realised that it was for a new character in Niyati. You have done a show for Sahara One before as well. Are you being favoured by the channel? I have done Haunted Nights on Sahara One before. The channel provides you a family type set-up and cherishes your hardwork as well as dedication. And yes, they do favour talented actors. Therefore, all the actors also prefer the channel. What impressed you about the character of Sharmila? I did not know much about her earlier, but now I can say that she is a very simple, straight-forward girl. She has entered the house to help Ishwar and Niyati. The show is heading for interesting times. Niyati is a well-established show and all the characters have etched their presence of the audiences' mind fully. In such a scenario, how challenging is it to enter the show? It is indeed a big challenge because the show has already completed a hundred episodes. But my co-stars have been very supportive and helped me at each step. All of them are experienced artists. I am working really hard to become as popular as them. I am particularly working upon my facial expressions. Rest only time will tell. Will Sharmila turn into a negative character in the future? As of now she is simple, but in the future she will realise that Ishwar is a good match for her and also quite rich. Such a state of affairs makes her change her nature. In the future, she will be seen plotting how to turn Niyati out of the house. Do you like playing a character that has grey shades? Yes I do, as it gives you a lot of chance to experiment with your creativity. Playing a simple girl does not allow that sort of freedom. What other serials are you doing? As of now I am totally involved with this serial. It is a daily soap, so we have to work hard from the morning till night and get no time for anything else. Therefore, thinking of anything else is totally out of question. How did you enter the world of acting? I was into modeling, but a bit bored of it and wanted to do something else. So I took to acting. What kind of roles do you like? I really like doing comedy. I want to do a show like Comedy Circus or Comedy Nights With Kapil. Have you done any course in acting? No, I have not done any course. I have learnt acting from watching the movies of Sridevi! I am her big fan. — Dharam Pal
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Classic love tale
Last year, television witnessed the grandeur of cinema with a classic love story based on the iconic Gujarati novel—Saraswatichandra. The love story was brought out with opulence and splendour. Star Plus' viewers got to see a passionate and emotional love story wrapped in delightful production details, elaborate sets, charming colours, wonderful cinematography and well-directed story-telling. "What a journey it has been for one year. I couldn't have asked for a better role than Saraswatichandra. I am proud to be associated with the show and thank our viewers for showering us with so much love and affection. We will entertain you guys further," says an ecstatic Gautam Rode.
Proud parents
Shabbir Ahluwalia and Kanchi Kaul, who got married in 2011, will soon turn parents and the couple is very happy. While Kanchi is currently seen in Meri Bhabhi, Shabbir will soon be part of Ekta Kapoor's new TV show on
Zee. Grand return
Shakti Mohan, who is celebrating her return to Dil Dosti Dance on Channel V as Kria, recently completed three months on the show. Her fans were so thrilled by it that they began tweeting about it and soon it became a trend
too. Shifted base
Taapsee Pannu, who was the darling of the South film industry, has now shifted base to Mumbai from Chennai to focus on her Bollywood career. Her next release is
Runningshaadi.com Television actress Sara Khan makes her film debut in Total Siyappa in a supporting role. She says that she is not looking for a film career and does not want to be part of the rat race. She is busy with NGOs and her psychology career.
At peace: Sara Khan Variety is the spice
There are three films releasing on March 7 and they offer quite a variety. There is romantic comedy Total Siyappa, female centric film Gulabi Gang, and quirky romantic feminist comedy Queen. Impressive look
The promo of 2 States is out and it is pretty impressive. Alia Bhatt tweeted that she was 'engaged' and that sent the social media world into a tizzy! Of course she was talking about the movie launch. Meanwhile, the latest poster of the film features the entire cast. Here's a look. Voice
of stars
Sonakshi Sinha and Imran Khan are doing the voice overs for Rio 2 for the dubbed Hindi version of the sequel. They will dub for Jewel and Blu. Farah’s fish fetish
Filmmaker-choreographer Farah Khan has turned out to be a kitchen person! Diamonds and pearls might be the weakness of many, but this mother of triplets enjoys shopping for fish and pressure cookers. "Some women like jewellery shopping. I guess fish shopping is my thing. And oh ya pressure cookers," Farah posted on Twitter. She is tied up with shooting of Happy New Year, starring Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone. Manoj’s Taj darshan
Actor Manoj Bajpayee is pumped up about his first visit to Agra. He might be travelling to the city for work, but he is looking forward to tasting delicacies of the city and seeing Taj Mahal. "Mathura schedule is over. Unit shifting base to Agra. What's the famous food of Agra? Never been to Agra. Will see Taj for the first time," he tweeted Friday. He is shooting for Tevar.
— IANS
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ASTRO TURF
ARIES: Employment affairs will be somewhat unsettled, especially in the morning. Factory workers: expect no co-operation from labour. Home and family affairs will be most enjoyable.
Tarot message: Do what is right and watch your best interests. Lucky colour: Sky blue.
Magic number: 28.
TAURUS: Cash should be flowing into your account today. This abundance is not due to luck but all because of your hardwork. Long-term projects and contracts will be paying off handsomely.
Tarot message: Focus on professional changes. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 32. GEMINI: The run of good business continues. It is a case of making hay while the sun shines. Do not make the mistake of working late. Once you have decided on a certain course of action, stick to your guns. Tarot message: Push to succeed and your efforts will pay off. Lucky colour: Pink.
Magic number: 40. CANCER: Turn on the charm and the world's your oyster. Be sure to take full advantage of a good opportunity that comes your way. Singles are in luck and those with partners are back in saddle.
Tarot message: By applying yourself, you can build great success. Lucky colour: Green.
Magic number: 51. LEO: This day is built for workaholics, which is great if you love your job and want to establish a powerful momentum of productivity. Income can dwindle and expenses can rise.
Tarot message: Focus on the better to mitigate the bitter. Lucky colour: Forest-green.
Magic number: 65. VIRGO: Make the efforts to apply for a job you really want. Do not neglect the daily grind by focusing all your attention on your partner. Do not let too many people know what you are planning.
Tarot message: Put your terms and conditions in writing. Lucky colour: Peach.
Magic number: 61.
LIBRA: Get real about your daily routine and make it a happy one. Meetings with potential contractors, employers, employees and consultants can be productive.
Tarot message: You find within yourself a fountainhead of will-power. Lucky
colour: Orange. Magic number: 47. SCORPIO: Your card 'the Magician' says you are not likely to be taken unaware by surprise happenings. It is probably a better period for working in familiar surroundings than for
travelling. Tarot message: At work don't hold back anything from your employer.
Lucky colour: Metallic-grey. Magic number: 42. SAGITTARIUS: Spend this perfect day with your sweetheart. Drop whatever you had scheduled and dedicate yourself to the one you love most. Answer business correspondence and pay bills today. Tarot message: Share responsibility with others before continuing. Lucky colour: Pink.
Magic number: 35. CAPRICORN: If you have recently taken on a new job or contract make sure to negotiate and organise all the specific terms. Special skills and abilities
will not be noticed. Tarot message: Don't make impulsive decisions in personal relationship. Lucky colour: Ebony.
Magic number: 40. AQUARIUS: Today is a test of knowhow and competence in your profession. Your performance
is on public view and those in charge will be carefully watching your every move.
Tarot message: You gain by being practical; don't be emotional. Lucky
colour: Saffron. Magic number: 32. PISCES: Sudden encounters with extraordinary characters leave a mark on your life. You are unlikely to forget such incidents quickly. Work and domestic duty follow
a familiar pattern today. Tarot message: Be practical in your approach. Lucky
colour: Yellow. Magic number: 25.
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THE YEAR AHEAD
If your birthday is March 2...
This is not the year to dominate or do things that might start some trouble. Too much travel will put you in frenzy. Investment made will enhance your prosperity and financial security. Don't mix business with pleasure. Involve yourself in some charity work for mental peace. Personal relationships are sensitive and vulnerable. You need to remember that god helps those who help themselves. Those born after 1990 should tread gently when dealing with someone touchy and over-sensitive. Avoid any form of severity in your tone and act diplomatically. Do not ignore the importance of rest and relaxation. Positive colours: White, Cream, Silver. Select days: Sunday, Monday. Favourable numbers: 1, 2, 7. Gems recommended: Pearl, Moon Stone Charity on birthday: Donate halwa prepared in jiggery to the needy or at any religious place today.
You share your birthday with Rajeshwari Sachdev, who is known for her role in Shyam Benegal's film Sardari Begum for which she won the 1997 National Film Award. Her other films include Mammo and Welcome to Sajjanpur. Her stars do not forecast much success in the future.
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Sara not in the rat race