Model demeanour
Amarjot Kaur

Supermodel and actor Dipannita Sharma believes in working hard. She says it's the only way to rise in an industry that is extremely competitive...

She floors you with her sensitivity and power of silence, but what strikes the most about Dipannita Sharma's disposition is her honesty. Neither is it draped in fancy layers of pretence nor does she attempt to beautify it with words of wisdom. It is honesty in its purest form. In Chandigarh on Wednesday, Dipannita opens the conversation in a rather affable tone, "I am married to a Punjabi and most of his relatives are in Chandigarh. So, I came here to meet my family and friends. I was in Delhi to walk the ramp as a showstopper for Deepika Govind's collection at the 10th Anniversary of Trident Group."

Act right

As the conversation progresses, the first topic that we touch is the much-used term in Bollywood-'model-turned-actor'. She gives a prompt reply, "I do not really have any aversion to the term model-turned-actor, but I would not like to call myself that because I never really quit modelling ever. Ever since I started, I worked towards becoming a successful model and then acting came along. I took it up when I had already established myself as a supermodel."

In the current scenario, when people perceive modelling as a ladder to walk their way towards films, Dipannita says, "This has been an age-old phenomenon; we have had many successful models acting in films, including Zeenat Aman and Sangeeta Bijlani, but it is essential to establish oneself as a good model first." She adds, "Modelling offers many opportunities, including travel, and possibilities. So if somebody leaves modelling for a film and it flops, he or she would land up in the middle of nowhere. In such a case, it is important to have a Plan B."

Changing roles

With the appearance of models in films and actors on the ramp as showstoppers, the dividing line is fast disappearing. "I think this professional exchange was necessary to pacify the commercial frenzy. Although the good thing about this exchange is that with models getting into films, a lot of glamour has been added to Bollywood. But the drawback is that in this set-up, there is not much exclusiveness," says Dipannita.

Future perfect

She was last seen in the film Ladies vs Ricky Bhal and when puzzled on her future projects, Dipannita rubbishes all rumours about being part of Angrezi Mei Desi. "I am doing three films, two of which are thrillers, titled Pizza and Ikka Top. In Pizza, I will be playing an extended cameo with Arunoday Singh. Also, I am very excited for my other film, Take It Easy, which is a light hearted social drama. While in Ikka Top my role is ultra glamorous, I play the role of a middle-class mother in Take It Easy," she says while adding, "I would also want to try my hand at Punjabi cinema." Currently, Dipannita is also focusing on her yacht chartering business.

Fitness mantra

Fit as a fiddle, Dipannita admits that she has a very high metabolism rate and what worries her is the fear of losing more weight. "I do not quite like mechanical training or going to the gym. For me, fitness is all about wellness, for which I take up one activity every week. It could either be walking, swimming, dancing or Tai Chi. But the most important thing for me is my sleep and I do nothing at the cost of my ten-hour sleep."

Wrong take

While most of us who have watched the film Fashion consider it as a true reflection of the industry, courtesy the 'true-story' tag that went on to define it, Dipannita begs to differ. "I condemn the makers of the film Fashion. People who took to drugs could never carve a niche for themselves in this industry. Discipline is of paramount importance. I didn't go and watch the film in the theatre because it's a one-sided story, thereby a lie. My contemporaries and I neither smoke nor drink. Also, one does not have to go through the path (mentioned in the film) to become big. It was way too dramatised and one-sided."

amarjot@tribunemail.com

Social calling
Amarjot Kaur


SHOW TIME: Aamir Khan

For a man who due to his intellectual calibre is often called a 'perfectionist', it is difficult to settle for anything less. Aamir Khan, whose serial Satyamev Jayate is being telecast on Star Plus, talks through Airtel Talk 2 Aamir Khan about the show, his upcoming Bollywood ventures and more.

How is this season's edition of Satyamev Jayate different from the earlier one?

This season of Satyamev Jayate will have three editions around the year and we will feature five episodes in March. Also, we will be generating an opinion poll, wherein the viewers can vote on a toll-free number that will be telecast during the shows. We will take the majority's opinion to the government and ask them to consider the same. This year's edition of Satyamev Jayate will be more like a campaign.

While Anna Hazare has totally washed his hands off Kejriwal's side, what do you have to say about it?

I have only had a chance to meet Anna Hazare twice and I do not know him enough to comment on this. However, I think that it is important that we use our own judgement to see what is right or wrong.

What is the reason behind coming up with the second season of Satyamev Jayate?

It is to bring to the surface various issues and discuss them, in order to understand them and find a solution. Also, we want to bring a change in this nation.

Which is your next project in Bollywood?

My next film will be released in December, post Christmas, and it's titled Peekay. It has been directed by Raj Kumar Hirani, who I also worked with in Three Idiots.

Who are the other directors in the film industry that inspire you?

I like the work of Mehboob Khan, who directed the film Mother India. Also, the works of V Shanta Ram and Bimal Roy inspire me to a very great extent.

What is your take on the intimate kissing scenes, which have become a fad in the Indian cinema?

I think that comes with being an actor and if the story demands such scenes one can't help it. 

Studied sagacity
Mona

Justice K Kannan's latest book, Medicine and Law, takes up a host of issues that go way beyond medical negligence


WRITE CHOICE: Justice K Kannan PHOTO: Parvesh Chauhan

When others his age found thrill in pulp fiction, K Kannan studied Thomas Hardy in his father's rich library as a young student. This was the strong foundation that has led him to write on complex issues now. Medicine and Law is the latest offering by K Kannan, Judge, High Court of Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh.

It took seven years of persistent work for this book to be completed and published by Oxford University Press. While most of the medico-legal writers have focused on 'medical negligence', the realm has a wide reach that now encompasses cosmetic procedures, organ transplants, surrogacy and concept of designer babies. The book that starts right from medical education, moves on to ethics and consent, also looks into sex selection and medical termination of pregnancy, medical insurance as well cosmetic enhancement procedures.

"My last work focussed on Modi's Medical Jurisprudence, as he is the one who is considered the ultimate authority," says K Kannan who worked at length for Medicine and Law, a book aimed at students, research scholars, medical professionals, NGOs and law firms practising in the field.

K Kannan, who has written books on Accident and Compensation Loss, Wills and Succession, Landlord and Tenant, MLJ's Motor Vehicle Act and more, is all set for another book now.

Kannan, a third-generation lawyer from Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu, is against any form of discrimination — be it reservation issues in his home state or female foeticide in the Northern part of country where he has been posted since 2008. "Figures can't lie. The skewed sex ratio is an indicator of women not getting their fair share under the sun in Haryana," points out Kannan. He is a votary of men standing by women's side to get them equal rights. "Women won't get equality by shouting for it on the rooftops. Men have to believe in it, for most of the times they are the perpetrators of crime against women."

Justice Kannan advocates slow but sure procedures to protect interests of our people, be it foreigners buying a woman's womb for surrogacy or cosmetic procedures offering magic remedies.

Apart from interest in his field, reading and writing, Kannan is also into English literature, history and is a spiritual seeker.

His 608-page book — Medicine and Law — is priced at Rs 1,595.

mona@tribunemail.com

In the race
Manpriya Singh

Contemporary doesn't really cut it. If it's a classic, better and if it's a vintage, a notch better! At a vintage and classic car rally, the latest models humbly give way to the oldest makes. Any model from pre-Independence era draws absolute awe and admiration. Borrowing from the belated spirit of International Women's Day, santabanta.com organises a Women's Car Rally and a Vintage cum Classic Car Rally, a day later. Shares Gulpreet Aulakh, founder, Team Chandigarh Adventure Sports, "The fifth edition of this event would be professionally managed by us. In total, there will be as many as 100 to 115 cars participating in the two rallies."

While the women's rally will see all the women drivers take to the wheels to display their competence, the Vintage and Classic car rally will ensure that the old world beauties are all displayed together by the ardent restorers and owners. One of the most interesting things of the event would be that the participants get to test their skills on TSD (time, speed and distance).

Shares Manveen Ghai, owner, of a black and yellow 1942 Morrison-8, "Even though it's a 1942 model, we haven't had this car for over seven decades with us. It has been bought from somebody." She adds, "Maintaining it is a very tough job because there are no spare parts available. But fortunately this a passion with several people now, so there are professionals who look after just the vintage cars."

(To be flagged off on Sunday, March 9th from Hotel Taj, Chandigarh)

manpriya@tribunemail.com

Vanity box
Left high and dry?
Make-up on dry skin needs extra care and attention

Manpriya Singh

It doesn't really matter what the reason; environmental damage, premature aging, harsh ingredients, seasonal changes or genetics. Once the skin is dry, the make-up routine becomes a rigmarole. Dry skin could be seasonal or a perennial problem, but flaky skin needs some extra care and attention. A few techniques here and a few essential products there is all it takes to let the make-up stay.

Celebrity make-up artist Bobbi Brown, popularly advocates the power of right moisturizer. "I believe that using the right moisturizer for your skin type makes a lot of difference. Those with dry skin can go for hydrating balm as the base." Dry skin, as is generally known and rarely practiced, requires some more prepping up before one starts putting on make-up. Prime your face. Primers take care of the flaws, wrinkles and dry skin. These days high definition cosmetic primers often take care of much more than that. They form a good base for the make-up and let it stay for hours at stretch.

Alternatively, recommends Savita Aneja, from a Chandigarh-based salon, "Use a water-based moisturizer and let it set in for good 10-15 minutes before you begin applying make-up. This also prevents the skin from becoming greasier and flakes from appearing on the skin." Once the hydration has set in, foundation ought to be applied with either a gentle brush or a damp sponge. She adds, "For sheer coverage, move the brush gently over your face in downward strokes." There are several other measures that ensure a flawless finish, for instance giving way to cream based products. Only stick to creamy eye shadows and blush. Powder based products often cake-up on dry skin, thereby causing flakes to appear after sometime. They can also draw attention to fine lines, creases and wrinkles.

Five-point agenda

1.If you don't need a lot of coverage, try a tinted moisturizer. It acts more like a sheer foundation and does not cause flakes to appear. However, tinted moisturizers should be replaced only with a foundation, not with a regular moisturizer.

2.Flaky skin is more visible on forehead, near the brow lines and around the eyes. Pay some extra attention to these problem areas and moisturize them well with aqua-based creams.

3.Try and carry a travel size hydrating toner or a make-up fixer. After a couple of hours, a few splashes on the face should prevent from the make-up flaking off.

4.While putting on make-up, don't drag the concealer or foundation onto your skin. Instead dab the products by using a damp blending sponge.

5.Something that should have come first; thereby obviating the need for any of the subsequent steps. Exfoliate. It remains the best and the most effective way to a glowing skin. Exfoliation rids the ski of dead cells, flakiness and clogged pores.

Master Chef
Apple quickie!
Kandla Nijhowne

Apples give us some wondrous winter delights, the best among them being apple pie! But baking one makes a novice nervous. There's a nagging fear of the pastry remaining undone, or worse still, getting burnt. When I was an uninitiated fool, I used to even worry about the apples sandwiched between two layers of rolled pastry. Once they went hiding out of sight, I never could fathom if they were cooking to the right tenderness or not. Readers, there is a bypass in the pie world by which you can get almost the same taste and texture as apple pie with half the effort and none of the nail-biting suspense. It's called the Apple Crisp. In a crisp, the pie structure is inverted upside down, omitting the pastry making headache altogether. Prepped fruit is sugared, flavoured and tossed into an oven proof dish. The crunchy texture is introduced as a top layer to the dish in the form of healthy oats, flour and butter. It's an easy way out. It's a lazy way out. But the taste is out of this world!

Classic apple crisp

  • ½ cup maida
  • ¼ grain sugar
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ¾ tsp ground cinnamon
  • A pinch of salt
  • 6 tbsp butter, chilled and cubed
  • 1/3 cup rolled oats
  • 1/3 cup chopped walnuts
  • 6 cups peeled, cored, apples cut into chunks
  • ½ cup raisins, preferably the purple ones
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 3 tbsp grain sugar

Method

  • Mix together the maida, 3 tbsp sugar, oats, spices and nuts.
  • Add the cubed chilled butter and blend together with just your fingertips. The mixture should look evenly crumbly.
  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C)
  • Place the apple chunks in a large bowl, along with the raisins and lemon zest. Toss with the lemon juice and sugar. Transfer to your prepared baking dish.
  • Spread the maida and oats topping evenly over 
    the apples.
  • Bake for approximately 30-40 minutes or until bubbly. The topping should look golden brown.
  • Remove from oven and place on a wire rack to cool for about 30 minutes before serving.

(Nijhowne is a Chandigarh-based culinary expert)

Doc Talk
Ever-youth formula
Dr Sukhdeep Kaur

Let's face it … No one wants to look their age, which is why anti-aging treatments and creams are a rage. There is a rush of such beauty products in the market and salons to entice the looks conscious customer. But then, which one to choose?

Here is a sneak view and some real facts to enlighten you.

Stem cells: These are the body cellular building blocks and have recently become a huge buzz word in field of skincare world. The cosmetic products use stem cells derived either from plants especially apples or synthesised with specialised peptides and enzymes. These when applied topically protect the skin from damage.

  • Stem cells are used extensively as anti-aging serums, creams and night creams.
  • Mesotherapy as anti-aging tool is applied over the skin with dermaroller or ultrasonic massage and works great for skin rejuvenation and reduction of fine lines.
  • The latest stem cell peel is a golden anti-aging tool .This procedure just takes 20 minutes and gives you remarkable results in just four sittings. This two step procedure involves application of a combination peel for 10 minutes followed by a stem cell serum, resulting in everlasting glowing skin!
  • Various hair fall problems are getting cured with the usage of special stem cells serums used over scalp with dermaroller. The usual sittings are six to get effective results. Stem cells naturally replenish the hair growth factors.
  • Stem cells also have a promising role in treating deep wounds, burn wounds and scars.

Metals: These days many metals and minerals are being used in beauty products like gold, silver and even diamond. The concern is about their safety. We find expensive gold, silver facials in Spa and Salon, but no scientific study on their safety and efficacy is established till date. An attractive name like gold facial tempts us to try out one, who knows you might get an allergic reaction and sudden flare up of acne , so beware.

Caviar (fish eggs): It has various rich, nutritive components like proteins, low glycemiccarbohydrates, essential fatty acids and neurotransmitter called DMAE. All these components provides a firm muscle tone. Hence caviar are rendered as natural face lift. Caviar facials and serums are a real treat for a dull, tired skin!

Marine algae: This is again a big name in cosmetic products. The therapeutic use of seawater, seaweed, algae, mud, sand is called Thalassotherapy. It is believed to tone, nourish, revitalize, moisturize the skin and improve blood circulation gifting you a younger, softer, supple baby like skin. Products with marine mud, algae regulate the skin serum and have anti aging and anti-inflammatory properties.

Exotic ingredients

Bird poops facials: Celebrity fans of the bird poop facials include Tom Cruise, Oprah and Victoria Beckham who raved about it. Bird poop facials use a powder made from excrement of the Uguisu bird. It can be useful in cleansing skin pores, whitening skin pigment of dark spots and discolourations from scars and sun spots, brightening skin tone, as well as healing and revitalising skin that has been damaged by aging.

(Dr Kaur is a dermatologist)

We are the world…
Amarjot Kaur

We, a group of women artists, celebrates Women's Day by painting women and their contribution to society

Sometimes, movement is more important than improvement and at the 11th annual art exhibition by We-a group of Indian contemporary women artists at Punjab Kala Bhawan, one witnesses a movement of a significant kind.

With as many as 50 paintings by 38 women artists from across the nation, We aims at celebrating the Women's Day, for which it has collaborated with the Punjab Arts Council.

While the subject of most of the artists' works border along the representation of women and their social, mental, and physical significance in society, there is an evident streak of individualism that is draped in the expression of art. In most of the paintings at the gallery, most of which are modern and contemporary, the artists have used female figures to intensify their idea of womanhood. Nevertheless, the exhibition showcases different colours of womanhood, one witnesses the portraits of Kiran Bedi by Nandini S Kamath and abstract contemporary and semi-figurative paintings by Sadhna Sangar, Ritu Mehra, Minal A Agre and Vandana Malhotra.

Also, at the exhibition, the romantic figurative contemporary work by Shivani Sehgal and Mehak Sehgal and wood cut on paper work by Prabhjot Kaur and Rajisthani folk portrait of a woman by Sonia is worth a watch. Moreover, Ashwini Bhole of Mumbai has been conferred with the winner award and a cash prize of Rs 15,000 for her monochromatic abstract painting, while the runners up award has been given to Jaya Namdeodaronde. "The journey from 'I' to 'we' is an arduous one and requires vision, social consciousness and a brave heart to embark on it, so that is the reason why we formed the group We. Also, since seventies, one can well say that women artists were in the margin for long years," shares Sadhna Sangar, the founder member of the group.

On till March 7

CELEB POINT
A city that enchants
Divya Dutta

The bird's eye view of Chandigarh is so delightful. It's a well-planned green beautiful city. Coming here for a new film added to the excitement. This trip has had a lot for me in store and I am not complaining at all!

After checking in, I took the opportunity of going to my favourite hub, Sector 17. The vibe, the popcorns, the hustle bustle and the shopping! And no, I didn't cover my face! There were people, admiring, smiling coming for pictures respectfully, not intrusive at all! It was in fact so much fun!

I touched base with my dearest friend Sonu Nigam, who also was in the city for a concert and he asked me to accompany him for the concert. What better pleasure than to hear his magical voice and the Chandigarh crowd cheering him!

The first day of shoot was awesome. Driving past the fields early morning, breathing the fresh air was so rejuvenating. After a fulfilling first day at shoot, I headed for the PTC awards where I met so many of the Punjabi fraternity. Dharamji asked about mom who ties him a rakhi and chatted with me for a while. Meeting Vivek Oberoi, Neil Nitin Mukesh, Mika Singh, Jazzy B and a lot of other friends just boosted my energy level. As I was about to leave as I had an early call time, Vivek's onerous act took me by surprise. He got down from the stage and gifted me a teddy. It was so endearing.

This time, it's been much more fun. Meeting friends, meeting strangers, working at your favourite place with people eager to help. Thanks Chandigarh for always making me smile and for those lovely people that you have.

(Dutta is a Bollywood actor)

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Love affairs will blossom, but do not go by face value. Dress in alluring fashion for maximum appeal. Success comes only with hardwork. Postpone decisions on major deals.

Tarot message: Focus on professional changes.

Lucky colour: Brown.

Magic number: 27.

TAURUS: The support and tips of an expert will help you master whatever subject you are committed to learning. You are not likely to be taken unawares by surprise happenings.

Tarot message: Concentrate on what is truly important.

Lucky colour: Green.

Magic number: 28.

GEMINI: Personal plans will have to be put aside again. Try your luck and reap the rewards. Learn to be optimistic. This evening is ideal for serious discussion or a heart-to-heart with your partner.

Tarot message: Do not refuse offers without seeking advice.

Lucky colour: Grey.

Magic number: 30.

CANCER: It is a good day for dealing with accounts than trying to start anything important. Time spent alone on reading and studying will not be wasted.

Tarot message: Do not get carried away by initial success.

Lucky colour: Ebony.

Magic number: 43.

LEO: This is an opportune day for those taking examinations. Socially, a hectic evening lies ahead.

Sign new documents after lunch. Health gives no tension at all.

Tarot message: Be articulate.

Lucky colour: Yellow.

Magic number: 55.

VIRGO: After a busy period of seasonal celebration, you will be glad to kick back and take it easy. A frank discussion can clear the air. Go along with the wishes of your spouse.

Tarot message: Do not let opposition faze you.

Lucky colour: Red.

Magic number: 57.

LIBRA: Your overall situation should improve. Students will get much job satisfaction from creative work. Superiors will be co-operative, offering you moral as well as financial backing.

Tarot message: Avoid being hurried and over-anxious.

Lucky colour: Brown.

Magic number: 37.

SCORPIO: The card 'Nine of Wards' can make this a day of enjoyment and opportunity. Personal plans are likely to receive a severe setback. Serious quarrels are likely at home. Tarot message: Don't be bullied into accepting situations you dislike.

Lucky colour: Royal-blue.

Magic number: 41.

SAGITTARIUS: You will have no problem getting along with members of the family. Routine attendance at groups or meetings can be re-scheduled. Do not resist changes. Tarot message: Take limited risks.

Lucky colour: Crimson.

Magic number: 62.

CAPRICORN: Watch out for the unexpected. Business matters will not turn out to be as straightforward as they first appear. Discuss important moves with influential people. Tarot message: Balance and perspective will lead you out of a problematic situation.

Lucky colour: Pink.

Magic number: 57.

AQUARIUS: 'The King of Swords' suggests that laziness, incompetence and inadequate performance will not be tolerated by bosses, clients or customers.

Tarot message: Plan your life better to avoid delays.

Lucky colour: Black.

Magic number: 26.

PISCES: Thoroughly check the 'to-do' list and clear as many items as possible. You will be surprised how good you feel once a day's work is completed. Handle cash carefully.

Tarot message: Make a deciding choice and then live with the outcome.

Lucky colour: Brown.

Magic number: 63.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is March 6...

Ruled by number 6 and the planet Venus, you are lord of a pleasant personality, sharp memory and very fond of worldly pleasures. Better understanding and rapport among family members will make you happy. Health needs care. Love life can be controversial. Businessmen and professionals will have a comfortable year. Those in service will find April moving smoothly. Politicians will muster courage to brave the odds in the second half of March. September is good for starting new ventures. Projects that have been slow till now will gain momentum.

Positive colours: White, Cream, Blue.

Select days: Friday, Thursday, Tuesday.

Favourable numbers: 5, 6.

Gems recommended: Diamond, Emerald.

Charity on birthday: Donate yellow edible items to the needy or at any religious place today.

You share your birthday with Gurusha Kapoor (March 6, Mumbai), a niece of Annu Kapoor who started her career with Doordarshan serials. She also starred in Guddu Dhanoa's movie Raja Leelai with Tabbu. Due to Saturn's position, she will continue in the field for a long time.

chatter box
Dream come true

We have often heard of actors taking a liking to sports, but have you seen an actor kiss the ground of a cricket stadium for the sheer love and passion for the game? Yes, you heard it right! Nakuul Mehta, who plays the role of Aditya in Star Plus' popular show Pyar Ka Dard Hai, seems to be really excited these days. Well, he has two reasons. One being that the lead pair, Adi and Pankhuri, has been shooting in the exotic lands of Australia for their honeymoon and second, Nakuul finally had the chance to visit the Melbourne Cricket Stadium.

The actor is extremely passionate about the game and had visited all the major cricket stadiums in the world except Melbourne. When Nakuul was informed that the shoot location for one of the episodes will be Melbourne, he couldn't wait to have a glimpse. In his excitement, Nakuul requested the stadium authorities to allow him a lap of the stadium's main ground. Not only was Nakuul thrilled about the positive response, the actor actually kissed the ground. When asked about his experience Nakuul said, "We are shooting at some of the best locations in Australia. But, the Melbourne shoot will truly be the most memorable one for me. I have been a die-hard cricket fan since my childhood and have visited all the major stadiums in the world. The only one remaining was Melbourne stadium. I'm so grateful to the channel for giving me this opportunity I always dreamt of."

Watch your favourite couple romance in the beautiful locales of Australia in Pyar Ka Dard Hai.

Beat the stress

Cartoon Network is all set to help kids face exam fever. Throughout March, kids will be treated to fun contests, new movies and entertaining stunts. Student and superhero Kris, from Roll No. 21, will bring loads of prizes to keep kids entertained during weekdays. Kris will be dishing out easy exam tips, presented by Kokuyo Camlin, to help his fellow classmates keep a calm head during stressful situations. Kids can get a refreshing dose of adventure, fantasy and laughter with movies from 24-27 March at 1pm. The 'Thanda Dimaag' contest will run every Monday to Thursday at 1pm throughout the month and the kids can win prizes like i-Pads, schoolbags etc. An entertaining special, Horrid Henry: I Hate Exams will be telecast on Saturday, March 15, at 12 pm.

Juhi on small screen

Actress Juhi Chawla, who was last seen judging the third season of Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, is all set to return to small screen. She will be appearing in the Indian adaption of popular American series ER. She will play an important role. The show follows the inner life of the emergency room (ER) of fictional County General Hospital in Chicago, Illinois, and various critical issues faced by the room's physicians and staff. — HRM

Motherhood calling

Buzz is that Kanchi Kaul, who is expecting a baby, might quit her TV show - Star Plus' Meri Bhabhi. She is four months pregnant and might get replaced on the show.

Wishing well

Ajaz Khan, who was the bone of contention between love birds Gauahar Khan and Kushal Tandon in Bigg Boss 7 recently, said he wants to see them get married and have kids. The trio will once again be seen in Khatron Ke Khiladi 5.

Making up

After reports that Kapil Sharma didn't want Sunny Leone on his comedy show, now she will be seen promoting her film Ragini MMS 2 on the show. Ekta Kapoor too will join them.

Star track
Angry, young Arjun

Arjun Kapoor talks about Alia Bhatt, his upcoming movie, the angry image, family and more

Fiery image

Amitji (Amitabh Bachchan) was the quintessential angry young man while Anil chachu (Anil Kapoor) was the jhakaas young man. It's too early for me to be bound to an image, I should be playing different characters. Thankfully, I play a bespectacled Punjabi boy in my next film. I can connect with Krish's attachment to his family, especially his mother and more. I explode on screen but otherwise I keep the anger inside me.

Nothing romantic

Alia Bhatt is a friend and there is no romance between us. Everything is just hype for the movie. Right now we both are angry with each other because I have not seen Highway and she has not seen Gunday. Unless we both see our respective movies, a squabble will ensue.

The book

I'm not much of a reader, 2 States is still there on my mother's bookshelf and my nani's read it too, but I've decided I won't till the film releases. I resisted reading it because I wanted the film to be a journey of self discovery. I have not discussed the book or movie with my family. I don't discuss my movies with them because I want them to be surprised.

Missing mom

I do miss my mother, but I know she resides in me and I reflect her in every step I take and she is watching me and helping me. I don't know if it is about making peace (with Sridevi). I love my father and she's a part of his life. Besides I've been brought up to be respectful and decent to people.

Bromance with Ranveer

He is my buddy and our bromance is real. We are also doing Finding Fanny Fernandez in which he has a cameo. The film is about Deepika and me. If I cared about getting the heroine in the end, I would not have done Gunday.

Captivating couple

A party thrown by a leading Indian television channel recently saw the attendance of the much-talked-about couple Armaan Kohli and Tanishaa Mukerji. The duo was seen together making a public appearance for the very first time, since television show, Bigg Boss 7.

With Rapunzel-like lustrous locks, Tanishaa was seen gracing the red carpet in an Urvashi Kaur dress. It seems like Indian designers are her favourite, with the stylish diva being seen in various stunning creations by our desi designers. The lovely earthy hues in the floor-length dress and the flowing yet curve accentuating fit, made the star look uber feminine.

Standing tall beside the actress was a handsome Armaan Kohli, dressed in an all black Mapxencars suit by designer duo Riddhi & Siddhi.

A rather masculine Armaan with Tanishaa's contrasting softness captured everyone's attention at the event.

Ishq Brandy in Oscar library

The script of Punjabi film Ishq Brandy has been chosen for the Academy of Motion Pictures Library. The film, which released last month and received audience appreciation, has now been approached to be a part of the prestigious library. It will be included in the library, acting as a permanent reference to cinema students. We catch up with scriptwriter Rupinder Inderjit to talk about the film...

How do you feel?

It feels great. I didn't really believe it initially because Ishq Brady isn't a mainstream film. It's a fun Punjabi flick and Oscar library is indeed an achievement. Moreover, I definitely feel more confident now. It has given me a confidence boost.

Do you think it will help promote Punjabi cinema?

Certainly. Most Punjabi filmmakers aren't touching Punjabi literature. Most Punjabi films are mindless comedies and we need to change that.

How was the response to the film?

We got good reviews. The response has been great too. People are loving the film. I am thankful to the director Amit Prasher who just understood the story and did his job so well. Also, my producers were very supportive.

What's next for you?

I'm currently doing my next Punjabi film. It is going to be a love story.

Ajay Devgn, a star with no attitude: Yaami

Vicky Donor actress Yaami Gautam, who is sharing screen space with senior actor Ajay Devgn in Action Jackson, says he may be a star but he works without giving any attitude.

"The shooting for Action Jackson is still going on and I had a great experience shooting with Ajay Devgn. He is a huge star, but at the same time he is also a great actor," Yaami said.

"He works very quietly, he is very professional and humble. Despite being a star, he doesn't have any attitude. He is very down to earth," she added.

Action Jackson features Sonakshi Sinha as the lead with Ajay. Won't Yaami be sidelined? She said: "I am in this film for some reason. Whenever you see the film, you will not question why I did the film."

Meanwhile, Yaami is busy promoting her next film Total Siyappa. She says she did this film only because she liked the script.

She says "it's an entertaining film."

Directed by E. Niwas, Total Siyapaa features Ali Zafar with Yaami. — IANS

Progressive steps

Sonam Kapoor says that she is proud of the work her contemporaries, Deepika Padukone and Anushka Sharma, are doing and the success they have achieved. The latter also do profit-sharing and that is definitely progressive.

Surprise package

Ranveer Singh is excited to work with Zoya Akhtar on Dil Dhadakne Do. He says, "I'm super excited to work with Zoya as I believe she's one of the most talented directors in the industry. Moreover, it's a part that really pushes me as an actor and gives me a chance to showcase an aspect of my performance that will surprise my fans."

Endoscopy for SRK

Shah Rukh Khan may not undergo surgery for his injury on the sets of Happy New Year but he will undergo endoscopy for sure. He has resumed work long back but will not be able to shoot action scenes for another month.

Minissha finds Mr Right

Minissha Lamba has been out of the limelight for a while. She has been dating Trilogy (a high-end club in Juhu, suburban Mumbai)'s owner Ryan Tham for the past six months and marriage is on the cards too. We are so happy for her!

Lukewarm response

Last week's release Shaadi Ke Side Effects saw a poor opening on the first day. The collections improved over the weekend, but that will not help much due to the film's poor reviews.

Mythical creature

Vikram Bhatt's next 3D film is about a creature and it is not a dinosaur but a Brahmarkshas, straight from Indian scriptures. The film stars Bipasha Basu and is the launch vehicle for Pakistani actor Imran Abbas Naqvi.

No film for Chitrangada

Chitrangda Singh is busy with endorsements but she has not got films on the anvil after the debacles of Inkaar and I, Me Aur Main.





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