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Diplomatic dialogue
Not a single answer is politically incorrect. Every thought is weighed before sharing, opinions expressed don’t trespass the danger zone, so making a controversial statement is out of question. If each experience of life is a lesson to be learnt, then Jacky Bhagnani and Neha Sharma, the lead pair of the film, Youngistaan, has definitely grasped one for sure, how to be diplomatic and politically correct, always. Based on youth’s participation in politics, the film is about a 28-year-young Prime Minister, “Who is reluctant to take up the responsibility but once he owns it, he ensures to trigger the change,” shares Jacky, who was in Chandigarh on Friday, along with Neha, to promote the film.
Jacky dressed up fancily for his part in a bandhgala, a bright pink pocket-square adding colour to his attire while Neha looked strikingly beautiful in a navy blue short dress, who in the film is in a live-in relationship with Jacky. “Live-in relationship was a tricky angle to fit in the film, but we managed to do so. Also, youngsters are made to believe that in present times they have a role to play in making important decisions about the country but all that is a farce. Age is still considered a parameter to judge experience instead of intellect and exposure,” adds Jacky. For his role of a young politician, he watched videos and read literature about famous politicians from AB Vajpayee to Rajiv Gandhi to Barack Obama. His get-up in the film is said to be inspired from that of Rahul Gandhi, especially the white kurta-pyjama and stubble look like a direct lift but Jacky attributes that to chance and denies any similarity. That the film is releasing near the Lok Sabha elections, Jacky says is a sheer co-incidence again and on the same note, he is quick to clarify that it is an apolitical film, which doesn’t endorse the policies or agenda of any political party. He doesn’t share his views on the present political scenario, or his favourite contender for the post of PM, “Let the secret ballot be secret. But I hope the film inspires youth to vote. Also, selectively use the right to reject option but go out and vote. Sitting at home and cribbing about the flaws in the system will not help in any case, so why not exercise your power to select a deserving leader.” With one-point agenda of film promotion, the duo gives discussing their future projects a miss, “As on now, it is Youngistaan, and the rest will follow.”
On a positive note
There might be a one off Queen or Highway, but primarily, Bollywood is a male dominated industry, where the male protagonists walk off with the film. It hasn’t been a different story for Neha yet, but she has the time and age on her side. “I am considerably new and it is not fair to expect to get roles like Vidya Balan does. With more films and good performances, I am sure I will be recognised as a fine actor soon.” But beautiful she is, and even has Jacky Bhagnani rooting for her. “She posts a picture on Facebook and instantly gets two lakh likes, which I am sure Hrithik Roshan fails to manage in such less time.” He has a strong character in the film, but Neha too has a substantial part to boast of. “She is first an actor and then a beautiful Bollywood actress.” Neha says that the year has started off on a positive note for actresses and hopes that it would carry on. “Where in women oriented roles are written and actresses aren’t just used as props in the films,” she deviates from the politically correct stance for a change. ashima@tribunemail.com
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As funny as it gets
He behaves like any 26-year-old. There are no deep set thoughts weighing him down, nothing raking his grey cells, no quick impressions he wants to create. Actor Varun Dhawan would rather soak in the moment, go full throttle with comedy, talk to his 3am friend Ankit, eat at Nandos Elante or go and see the lake while he is shooting in Chandigarh.
With the beautiful actress with perfect pout and imperfect Hindi, Nargis Fakhri, the two seem to be in no-hurry to talk about their upcoming film Tu Mera Hero directed by David Dhawan. David Dhawan… and this is where the conversation begins and will most probably end. The one immediate word that erupts like a magic seed is expectations. Varun loses no time to remind us that he is talking like any 26-year-old. Point taken! “I have enjoyed working with my father thoroughly. I don’t know why but I was itching to do comedy and who is better than David Dhawan to do it? My father is 60 plus and has made more than 40 comedy films, he isn’t getting any younger, so I just wanted to do the film with him,” shares Varun who was anxious and excited at the same time about the film. So, was the actor kid treated like a prince on the sets, a practice Karan Johar conforms to? “The two are very different, weight wise for sure. Karan Johar mollycoddles his actors, my father doesn’t take care of his actors. He expects them to be thorough professional and say their dialogues right.” With two of his filmi colleagues from the movie Student Of The Year already two films down, which have been rated as success, does that put Varun in some kind of I-must-give-a hit mode? “Not at all. I am not scared, in fact I am doing a full on comedy film. I feel if an actor is accepted in the comedy genre then it is rather easy for him to do other stuff as well. Comedy is not easy though, it is only because of my father’s guidance that I could do full house comedy,” adds Varun who will be seen in two more projects, one a romantic film Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania and other which will be different. “I wouldn’t let myself be stereotyped,” he puts in almost instantly handing the mike to pretty Nargis, who is still in her Koffee With Karan mode. The lady has no plans of going anywhere, moving away from Bollywood. “I want to get better with time. My fan base has increased which gives me immense joy,” adds the actress who is wearing some sexy outfits in Main Tera Hero. “You will see a lot of me,” she crackles. This is one of her joke by the way in case you didn’t get it right!
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Voice of women
There is always a risk of turning a show addressing a social cause into a documentary, sapping it of the entertainment factor. A show like this might guarantee information and dig out startling facts but the viewership gets compromised with. "Thus, it is imperative to strike a balance between the two. When you can't glue in the audience to a show, all other efforts go down the drain," says a pragmatic Feroz Abbas Khan, who is very excited about his debut television venture, Main Kuch Bhi Kar Sakti Hun, is presented by Population Foundation of India, an NGO. As the title of the show suggests, it highlights women issues, from female foeticide to family planning but interspersed with a story.
Every story is backed by extensive research. The basic idea might be drawn from real life events but the presentation is engaging. "The show has been divided into four parts, each addressing a different women issue," informs Feroz, known for his theatre exploits. On what took him so long to enter the TV industry, he says it was the lack of a befitting opportunity. "I have always found television regressive. There is hardly a difference between the content telecast ten years back and now." Even Bollywood, he says, falter many a time. "The depiction of celebrations, birth of a grandson in a family is plain silly. Both mediums suffer from deep-rooted prejudices." But Main Kuch Bhi… is different. It deals with women rights but conveys the message in the form of a story, which is engaging and entertaining. Even the title is decided after a few brain storming sessions by the creative team, which definitely is apt for the theme. "It denotes women empowerment, it is a way of instilling confidence in women that they are capable of doing anything that a man can." While the show is expected to do well in rural areas, since it is being telecast on Doordarshan, it is the urban parts of the country that the show will have to battle against popular shows telecast on GECs. Optimist about the reach of the show, Feroz says that the show is socially relevant and will enjoy mass appeal. It will also be simultaneously broadcast on radio. "It's a sincere attempt to cross geographical, regional and language barriers." The show will be dubbed in different languages for non-Hindi speaking regions. "And finally it will be uploaded on Youtube," Feroz adds, once again hinting at the intentions behind making the series on women-centric issues, which sound so true, so genuine.
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Of whim, wit and words
A zero in creative writing class wasn't enough to discourage, nor was the fact that she had to fight her parents to pursue a translation degree. Having worked as a seamstress, an interpreter, a lawyer and a chef, further ensured that she was convinced of her true calling-- which was a world comprising words and books.
There is a reason why the Montreal based Kim
Thuy, calls herself an "accidental writer." "I was not even meant to go to Canada. Everything in my life has pretty much happened by accident…When I was balancing two kids with my restaurant business, I was left sleep deprived. Being slightly narcoleptic, I could even sleep at traffic lights. To avoid that I started taking notes on traffic lights," she shares, while in Chandigarh at Alliance Francaise for Soiree Litteraire 2014. She left Vietnam with her parents when she was ten-year-old.
Ru, her first novel, came about 2009 along with Governor General's Literary Award and the Grand Prix
RTL/lire 2010, among others. "Ru in French means a very small stream…To me, words have textures, smell and emotions. I love being around words. Therefore, I chose a story only to be able to do that." She adds, "It's a very simple story of a refugee who arrives in Canada." Coming up is yet another project which shall take concrete shape only once it is finished. "My writings change and evolve completely as I write. In my last venture, the main character was mother when I started but by the time I finished, it was the daughter." Intense affair
Even while studying medicine, his interest lay in poetry and screenplay. For Belgium born author Francois Emanuel, a background in psychiatry eventually translated onto in-depth writings. "At the soiree
litteraire, I'll be talking about my recent book, Love Sad Goddess, which is a compilation of three short stories. One of the story is based in
Goa." He adds, "It's a story of a man who is coming back to India and who had a short encounter with a woman whose address he doesn't have." Having produced 15 to 20 titles, since 1989, he has been writing novels that are often solemn, but sometimes lighter and that is characteristic of him. "I like to write about the subjects of love and death, which are sometimes intense and at other times just for comic pleasure." His novel La Passion Savinsen was awarded the Belgian literary award Prix Rossel in 1998, whereas La Question Humaine was translated into more than 15 languages, before being adapted into a film. When the love for writing is overpowering, the inspiration is never far behind, "I'm like a monk. I have to write every morning. It has to be curiosity, a desire to explore or to know the subject better. That is what entails me to write." Coming up is a story of homeless people in Europe. "They are not homeless by chance, they are homeless by choice. It is pretty much like the concept of sanyas in India…The book should be out in three to four years." It is a subject that invites our curiosity.
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Reading between the lines
There is a certain kind of deviation from the norm when it comes to Punjabi film industry; a sort of drift that marks the advent of a change that was more necessary than inevitable.
With a series of Punjabi comedy films that bombed at the box office, the makers are now venturing on an experimental turf. It seems that after the success of recently released Sutta
Naag, the producers and directors are now exploring short films inspired from a literary source. In conversation with the makers and actors of up and coming short Punjabi film,
Burf, we find out the change towards which the Punjabi film industry is now headed to. "The idea of coming up with a film that was based on a literary source came quite naturally because I am an avid reader and after a lot of discussions and pondering, we decided to make a meaningful film that sends across a message to the viewers," said Jatinder
Jeet, who penned the dialogues and screenplay of the film. The shooting of the film is slated to begin from Saturday onwards and it will be shot across the locals of Punjab and Himachal. Produced by Swarn Singh and directed by Shubh
Kraman, the film will feature Sukhi Bal and Gagan Gill in the lead roles, while Parmish Verma will be seen in the supporting lead as
Karan. While talking about the content of the film, which is based on the book, titled
Burf, written by Sukhjeet, Parmish, who was earlier seen in the film Kirpaan: The Sword of
Honour, says, "Burf is a very contemporary Punjabi film. All its characters are relatable and it has a very interesting storyline, which explores the solidarity of human relationships in testing times." His statement is backed by Gagan Gill, who plays the role of
Karan, "This film is about introspection. It is basically about how a couple gets stuck in a car while it's snowing heavily and how they deal with different circumstances on their journey.”
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Spot on humour!
Jasmine Singh You've read the warning and tucked that little piece of cloth in your pocket. We assure you, it would come handy. The movie has such a lavish, generous and healthy seasoning of laughter that you would need a handkerchief to wipe out those 'tears of joy'!
As they say, if you have the beginning right then half the job is done. Mr and Mrs 420 nailed it at the starting point of the story, with its screenplay and dialogues. The film though comes with a story that we probably have seen in bits and pieces in Bollywood and Hollywood both, nevertheless by giving it a Punjabi spin, the writer has given a fresh feel to it. A story of four friends caught up in a situation where the two have to dress up as women to hide their identity is actually hilarious. The movie has some real rib- cracking dialogues that will evoke laughter naturally. Ksshitij has done an okay job of giving a shape to the story and also to the diverse characters. Even when he loses the catch for a split second, like a good fielder and bowler he manages to get his foot back, almost immediately. The film has been shot in Punjab but what the director and art director could have done was, give a cleaner backdrop to the scenes. Visually the film might disappoint. A little cleaning up doesn't do any harm. We understand that the director was justifying the story, but the same could have been done by applying little paint on the walls of the house where the movie has been almost entirely shot! How about taking the actors out to more locations, and some beautiful ones as well. Ksshitij cannot be solely credited for the film for it the humour element was only possible because of seasoned actors Binnu Dhillon and Jaswinder Bhalla doing their job perfectly well. It is however, Binnu and Jaswinder Bhalla who walk away with a fat share of appreciation. Binnu dressed up as a woman looks 'repulsively cute'. The actor is amazing with punches, timed well. Same goes for Jaswinder Bhalla, who has handled every punch thrown at him. In fact, it is the two characters in the film that evoke laughter, the scenes where you need the handkerchief. Yuvraj Hans, besides looking dashing in kurta pyjamas, has done justice to his character. The choo sweet character gets a thumbs up. Coming to the debutants Babbal Rai and Jassi Gill. Oscillating between being a woman and man, Babbal has done a fine job. He reminds you of Aamir Khan in Bollywood film Baazi. Babbal with some expressions sure can see a great career in films. Jassi Gill as a singer has a huge fan following, he has sung peppy and soul-stirring tracks in the film. In the film he acts very much how he moves and talks in real life, something the audience might or might not enjoy. For they accept an actor to act! The three girls in the film have worn some wow designer suits, if only they could also take some wow Punjabi speaking lessons, it would add substance to their beauty. Surprisingly, the dialogue writer of the film Naresh Karthuria has done a funny role, getting it right at all the points. Some scenes in the film have been dragged for no use, a snappier scissor would have done the trick. However, Mr and Mrs 420 also comes with foot tapping, and romantic music. Lyrics by Kumaar have raised the bar of every song. Tere lai sung by Yuvraj Hans will stir something in your heart. jasmine@tribunemail.com
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Stay away from their stupidity
Bewakoofiyaan
Bewakoofiyaan is a romantic comedy film directed by Nupur Asthana, written by Habib Faisal and produced by Aditya Chopra under the banner of Yash Raj Films. The film features Ayushmann Khurrana and Sonam Kapoor in lead roles. Nothing gripping
I did not like the film very much. Though the film is very contemporary and is knitted around a very modern-day couple, it fails to grip the viewer. I didn't like the storyline much. Sonal Sharma, student Saving grace I like the film because of Ayushmann Khurrana and he has really acted very well. However, Sonam Kapoor does nothing much in the film other that looking very good. It's a one-time watch and that too, if you are really getting bored and have nothing better to do! Tanuj Malhotra, student Just entertainment The film is neither too good, nor too bad. Honestly, I like the way they have treated the story, but then there was nothing more to the film other than the 'entertainment' factor. It's a funny film, but there are some major glitches and clichés too, so it generated a lukewarm response. Jasmeet Kaur, student --As told to Amarjot Kaur
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Holi dhamaka
Best Price modern wholesale stores owned and operated by Wal-Mart India Private Limited have announced Holi Dhamaka. From herbal and organic colours to a wide assortment of staples, including maida, sugar and cooking oils, Holi Dhamaka offers a diversified range of Holi merchandise for members. The Holi Dhamaka runs till March 17 at Best Price Modern Wholesale stores in Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Amritsar, Zirakpur and Bathinda,
Promoting a healthy way to play Holi, the stores offer herbal colours
prepared from flowers. Organic in nature, the glorious eco-friendly gulal is available in vibrant colours. The product range includes herbal gulal, water guns and Holi T-shirts. A wide assortment of staples, including maida, sugar and cooking oils, snacks, beverages, disposables and cleaners are also at great prices for members. Now , you can enjoy the festivalof colours with some exciting shopping packages. — TNS
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Sunny’s time
Poonam Bindra
Who has heard of a pet name for a pet? Well, the Kangs have kept two names for their handsome golden Labrador for formally he answers to the name Sergeant or Sarge and when there is need to shower more affection it is 'sunny boy'. "He actually recognises both the names," enthuses the fond owner, Dr Neeta Kang, a senior scientist at the Betty Cowen Research Centre. Since he was born in Amritsar, Neeta herself a Malaysian gal feels that he is like the typical exuberant 'Punjabi boy' and was very rowdy at first— "He would run off to the bushes and after doing some somersaults would come back charging and bang against us so strongly that it was difficult to keep one's balance and we had to teach him to slow down" Now six years old, Sarge was their fast companion when Dr Manjit Kang and Neeta came from the US. Though they both are very busy professionals they have made it a point that one of them has to be with him. As Neeta Shares "Once when we were in the US we left our beloved doggy in the kennel for ten days and we had to listen to the complaining whimper for a whole month so never again"! Very fond of veggies and fruits this 'sunny boy' is quite adverse to eating oranges and bananas so mostly he is fed one meal with proper dog food while the other is same as the family. In their set of acquaintances there are some people who are on sarge's 'not like' list so whenever they come maybe after few months also , he must growl at them and as Dr Kang who is responsible for taking him for his daily walk quips, " This is one mystery we have not been able to unravel" . Though sensitive and affectionate, Sarge is averse to taking a bath. So much so as Neeta shared with us, "Sometimes when he has hiccups all we have to mention is the word 'bath' and his hiccups stop"!
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Aamir ventures on a year long project
Satisfied and successful at the same time; actor-filmmaker Aamir Khan has a lot to be grateful for Actor-filmmaker Aamir Khan, who turned 49 on Friday, is happy with the way his Bollywood career shaped up last year courtesy Dhoom 3. He has planned to dedicate all his time in 2014 to his social issue-based TV show Satyamev Jayate. Talking to reporters at his residence, where he celebrated his birthday, Aamir said, "Last year was great. I was happy with the success of Dhoom 3 and I was glad that all our hard work paid off. This year, I am dedicating all my time to Satyamev Jayate. Only Raju's Peekay will release towards the end, but there's no other film. So, my whole year is for the show." He said the show's telecast has been divided into three parts this time. Of the four episodes that were slated for March, two have already been aired. "We will return with a few episodes in July, and then we will come back with some episodes in a month towards the end of 2014," he said. During the second season, he has so far raised his voice against rape and police. When curious media persons asked him about the issues he will raise in the forthcoming episodes, he said, "We don't tell the issues." Recently, Aamir had to register a complaint with the Mumbai police in the wake of a defamatory campaign against him on a social networking website. Lamenting such defamatory acts, he said, "It makes me sad when people do good work and then people react this way. Such people are less in number, but they are trying to spread rumours about me via social media, where people spread any information anonymously. I feel sad. I am trying to do my bit, but I know our janata (people) knows the truth. They have been seeing me and my work for 25 years. They know what's right," he added. — IANS
Matters of money & more
Actor Ayushmann Khurrana, who is playing a bankrupt lover in rom-com Bewakoofiyaan, said the film took him to his earlier days when he had only Rs 10,000 as savings for marriage. The 29-year-old Vicky Donor star said he eventually overcame his financial troubles by finding fame in showbiz. "I have not struggled much in my career as my character (Mohit Chadhdha) in the film does. I did face rejections but was never bogged down. I only relate to the financial insecurity part of my character. I remember when I married Tahira, I only had Rs10,000 in my account. "But I don't relate to the joblessness. I rather feel I was always at the right place at the right time," Ayushmann said. The actor married his childhood sweetheart Tahira before entering Bollywood. Bewakoofiyaan, also starring Sonam Kapoor and veteran actor Rishi Kapoor in prominent roles, hit theatres on Friday. The love-story is set in the backdrop of recession. "I am not nervous but I have always been excited about my every release. I am getting good response because it's a quirky and edgy film. It's a young film. I think effects of recession are still there as people continue to get pink slips. There is a lot of unemployment in India due to the recession," Ayushmann said. Asked if Tahira has watched the film yet, he said, "She is in Chandigarh now. I am planning to fly down to Chandigarh by evening and we are going to watch it. But she has read the script." — PTI
Emma steals the show
Emma Watson made sure that all eyes were on her when she stepped out in a navy blue gown to attend the European premiere of her movie Noah in Berlin. The 23-year-old teamed the gown with Christian Louboutin heels for the event held at the Zoo Palast theatre, reports a website. The gown had a halter neck and a cutout detail at the back. — IANS
Left in the lurch
Akshay Kumar is going mad at Nargis Fakhri for not honouring her commitment towards the remake of Shaukeen. She opted out of the film due to a Hollywood project that has come her way.
Friends forever
Singers Sunidhi Chauhan and Hard Kaur are great friends. They have a lot to catch up on and talk about when they meet and they like clicking fun pictures together too.
Some quality time
Katrina Kaif has flown to Sri Lanka, to once again be with her beau Ranbir Kapoor who is shooting for Bombay Velvet. She has gone for a week this time.
Aditya’s dating spree
Aditya Roy Kapur has often been linked with Shraddha Kapoor but it seems that something is cooking between him and current Dawat-e-Ishq co-star Parineeti Chopra. As per rumours, they are dating each other.
An open secret
Bipasha Basu and Harman Baweja are likely to get married to each other by the end of the year. They have come out in the open and the families have also met
formally.
When everything is an issue
Ajay Devgn's film with Prabhudeva titled Action Jackson might get postponed due to schedule issues. Earlier, the film got into trouble over the title which was claimed by Warner Bros.
Mountain out of molehill
If the latest rumours are anything to go by, actor Salman Khan is planning to marry his rumoured girlfriend Iulia Vantur. However, his sister Arpita S Khan vehemently denied the reports and tweeted: "Bhai is not getting married." "He's old enough and wise enough to decide what he wants to do in his life, so what you and me want doesn't matter," she added. Well, fair
enough.
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Gauahar’s style guide
Since starting her career as a VJ and model, Gauahar Khan has come a long way. Her first break was in Yash Raj Films' Ranbir Kapoor
starrer, Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year and recently she won Bigg Boss 7. We catch up with her to find out more about her fashion ideologies, her favourite shopping destinations and what are we likely to find if we chance upon her beauty kit. Fashion first
I took part in a beauty contest as a teenager. My body structure has not changed and I can still fit into my teen frocks! I would like to have my own fashion line one day. Fashion for me means comfort. Just wearing stylish clothes doesn't make you fashionable. It's the attitude you carry from within that makes you stand out, not the clothes. I like to style myself most of the time. Shopping galore
I'm not an impulsive shopper at all. Other than for important occasions, there is no specific time when I like to shop. If I like something at first glance, I usually end up buying it. My favourite shopping destinations are London and New York. Must-have list
I think a great pair of denims, comfortable footwear, a few classy bags, a fine watch and a few nice tops are a must. Mix and match
I like to wear my watch most of the time. A good wrist watch and earrings can make even a simple dress look smart. Some people accessorise too much. Do not put on everything that you might have in your accessory collection. Match it according to your outfit. If you are wearing a good pair of earrings, keep your neck bare. It will look classy. Style
icons
Rekha is my style icon. I like the way she carries herself. Her choice of costumes and colours is amazing.
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Tabu refuses to play Priyanka’s mother
Tabu might have played mother to American Indian actor Kal Penn in the Mira Nair-directed Namesake but she is not too keen on playing Priyanka Chopra's mother in Zoya Akhtar's Dil Dhadakne Do. When Zoya approached Tabu to play Piggy Chops' mother, she straightway refused. The 42-year-old actress refused to play 31-year-old Priyanka Chopra's mother. "Tabu was approached to star in Zoya's film around five months ago but she turned down the role in the first meeting as she didn't think she suited the part. She is a star and has a wide repertoire of roles that have been appreciated by fans and critics alike," revealed a source.
Tabu has all the reasons to reject the role. She was recently seen playing Salman Khan's elder sister in Jai Ho and currently she is shooting Haider with Shahid Kapoor and she has also bagged another promising project, a Vikas Bahl's movie titled, Return Gift opposite Shahid
Kapoor.
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Holi-day memories
Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone says that Holi is one of her favourite festivals and she remembers the time when she was a kid and played colours with friends.
"Holi has been one of my favourite festivals since childhood. Playing Holi with my friends from my building after coming back from school is one of my favourite childhood Holi memories. Preparations for the festival would start at least a week before," Deepika said. The actress, who delivered four back-to-back hits Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Chennai Express, Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela and Race 2 in 2013, is currently shooting for Happy New Year. She is looking forward to celebrate the festival with the cast of the film this year. "This year I will be shooting for my film Happy New Year. It's a fun bunch and I'm sure celebrating Holi on the set will be a lot of fun," she said. Deepika, who is known for her beautiful skin, also keeps a check on her beauty regime around Holi. "During Holi, I am concerned about my hair the most. Applying a coconut-based hair oil acts as a protective layer for my hair against the colours and the summer heat. I tie my hair in a side braid or a messy pony tail. Also I make sure to keep myself hydrated," said the actress. "Playing Holi can be exhausting. When I return home, I like to pamper myself with a coconut based hair oil massage and a cup of hot coffee," she added. — IANS
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Grand wedding on Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya!
Lavish wedding costumes and heavy ornaments are not restricted only to the Rajshri movies. Our telly tube weddings celebrations are no less in matching up to the perfection and grandeur of big screen. They go to great lengths to make the bride and groom's wedding look exclusive for the viewers. Marriages in India are marked by a lot of customs and traditions that are religiously followed and in scripting these for television, there's an opportunity to make it a visual delight for audiences and set new fashion trends. In the ongoing track of the wedding sequence of Zee TV's Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya, Akshat (Waseem Mushtaq) and Arpita (Niketa Agrawal), some of the fabrics used for Arpita's elaborate lehenga have been brought directly from Jodhpur and other cities known for its handiwork that has lent it an authenticity. The costumes for the entire wedding track have been designed by renowned television stylist, Nikhat Mariyam Neerusha. The purse strings were let loose. The intricately designed lehenga made for the Khandelwal family's daughter-in-law Arpita costs approximately Rs 5 lakh and the entire outfit weighs 25 kg. The lehenga is the highlight of all the outfits created for the wedding sequence as it was crafted by the expert Jodhpuri workers and it took almost a month to make the bride's costume. Keeping in mind the Marwari culture, original gotta patti, zardozi and kashab work has been used on the lehenga making it as exquisite as possible! The lehenga and the falling dupatta make Arpita look like a royal princess, oozing out panache and poise. Neerusha says, "My philosophy is very simple-it has to be impressive and stylish. I love the Indian craftsmanship and prefer working with it any day. After doing a lot of research, I finally designed Arpita's bridal wear with a variety of fabrics to give it a rich and elegant look." She adds, "Indian weddings are bright events, filled with ritual and celebration, and unvaryingly checked with amazing ceremonies and spectacle, which is the reason they are the most watched on television across the world. An Indian wedding is an infusion of cultures, a celebration of family and friends, and a natural setting that can take anyone's breath away, especially the gorgeous Indian wedding dresses that add to the style of the whole function. It's a designers dream to put together such a collection like we've done for Arpita's wedding and I for one enjoyed it thoroughly." Actress Niketa Agrawal (Arpita) says, "This is definitely a dream wedding for me as red is my favourite colour and it is a coincidence that without knowing my favorite colour, Neerusha designed a splendid red outfit for me. I feel like a princess!" Actor Waseem Mushtaq (Akshat) echoed a similar sentiment. "All I can say is that this is going to be the visual spectacle for the audience."
Vivian makes a jump
Vivian Dsena, who is currently relaxing after his exit from Madhubala, has been apparently offered a film. The movie is produced by Ramesh Sippy, claim sources but the actor hasn't met the makers yet to consider the offer.
Happy birthday
Shantanu Maheshwari aka Swayam of Channel V's popular show Dil Dostii Dance couldn't contain his happiness on his birthday. He is reveling in the many special gifts especially from his fans.
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Following Katrina’s footsteps...
A lot has been said about Katrina Kaif and Nargis Fakhri taking Hindi lessons on the sets of their Bollywood capers. Following their footsteps is none other than the Indo-Canadian hottie Sunny Leone. Shooting for a special episode of Zee TV's Fear Files, Sunny was seen perfecting her dialogues by learning every bit of Hindi that she could while on the sets of the show. Taking help from the producer of the show and her team, Sunny ended up spending an hour after reaching the sets on time since she wanted to get her diction and accent right!
Looking stunning as ever in an LBD, Sunny was a through professional. Insisting that she wouldn't let the makers of the show dub her dialogues, she stayed on for longer and gave re-takes till the time she was happy with her dialogue delivery. Watching every scene on the monitor after a take, Sunny was so conscious about her Hindi that she insisted on having some time alone in her vanity van to rehearse her lines in front of a mirror before she could face the camera. Her dedication towards her work and that too, for a brief promotional appearance for her film Ragini MMS surprised the cast and crew of Fear Files! Before Sunny, Katrina Kaif and Nargis Fakhri have managed to carve a niche for themselves in Bollywood only after spending hours and hours with their language coach and Hindi diction classes. It sure looks like Sunny is following suit and getting her act together for a serious shot at acting. Has the sensuous diva just about managed or done extraordinarily well with her Hindi prowess? You'll have to watch the episode of Fear Files to find out! For more, watch the Sunny Leone special Fear Files on 16th March at 10:30 PM, Only on Zee TV!
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Star verdict
Anupama Chopra brings you the four most popular villains of Hindi Cinema together-Prem Chopra, Prakash Raj, Gulshan Grover and Ronit Roy as part of the third edition of The Front Row Dialogues-Villains' Special.
These men known for their wicked laughter and scary persona have given the audience nightmares. Anupama Chopra talks to them about what it takes to be a great villain. The actors will share their views on the changing equations of villainy in Bollywood, battling negative stereotypes in real life and why villains in Hindi cinema laugh so much. Now, watch the most popular villains of Bollywood talk about what it takes to be truly evil in the movies on Sunday, March 16 at 8.30 pm on Star Plus.
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The year ahead
If your birthday is March 15...
The number 6 and Venus, makes you enthusiastic, loyal, charming, witty and helpful in nature. Mars and Venus give your love life some nourishment. Among intimate friends, some surprisingly openhearted conversations are indicated. You have a hole in your pocket and spend more than usual on trips, vacations, beauty treatments, and clothes. Be patient. This year there will be a rise in your expenses making it difficult for you to save. A fun gathering is on the cards. You can easily hold position of leadership and authority. Students will perform well in academics and will be rewarded for their contribution towards extra curricular activities. Listen to the needs of friends quickly. If you get involved in a 'home improvement project' with a relative, make sure you know what you are getting into first and make/put conditions upon your involvement. Positive colours: White, sea green, light blue and rose Select days: Friday, Thursday, and Tuesday Favourable numbers: 5 and 6 Gems recommended: Diamond and Emerald
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Astro turf
ARIES: You may be unable to make up your mind about an important decision, spend some time mulling over your options and do not hesitate to discuss things with close associates.
Tarot message: Avoid confrontation and making personal remarks. Lucky colour: White.
Magic Number: 37.
TAURUS: You feel exhausted and decide to take time off from hectic schedule. Spending time with loved ones will be a priority.
Issues about money matters may be on your mind. Tarot message: Focus on professional changes.
Lucky colour: Peach. Magic Number: 31 GEMINI: You could be in a tense and restless mood and may feel agitated about certain matters concerning your career or personal life. Don't give in to uncertainties as this is a just a temporary phase.
Tarot message: Do not delegate your tasks to anyone, do it yourself. Lucky colour: Saffron.
Magic Number: 29 CANCER: Try to tune into today's influences, which will restore amiable humour. Focus on health, diet and exercise. Business can be carried out successfully. Drive carefully. Defer trip.
Tarot message: You need to act for yourself and for no one else. Lucky colour: Lotus pink.
Magic Number: 65. LEO: Avoid a Scorpio, who will drag you down with cautious advice. You will learn from practical experience. There is a blossoming of consciousness and the fragrance all around you. Tarot message: Allow a sick situation blow over before starting afresh.
Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic Number: 27. VIRGO: It's important not to let them get at you too much. Just knuckle down to doing what is true for you. Don't ramp on over sensitive corns. Let today's influences bounce up your optimism. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid delays.
Lucky colour: Silver grey. Magic Number: 42.
LIBRA: Your anger will tend to aggravate a problem. Just proceed slowly and cautiously, double-check everything. Don't let feelings of inadequacy hold you back. Yoga and swimming are great fitness routine for you. Tarot message: Avoid gossip sessions.
Lucky colour: Brown. Magic Number: 63. SCORPIO: You can achieve quite a lot once you get going. Never trust a stranger. Socially, you may have some problems with a loved one, however, it would not be too serious.
Tarot message: You need to be creative if you want to retain your grip over your business.
Lucky colour: Fuchsia. Magic Number: 60. SAGITTARIUS: Work will progress smoothly. You will be in the mood to socialise and meet new people while widening your social circle. Your hectic schedule may leave you feeling tired, so take proper rest. Tarot message: Arrogance and pride will not be rewarded.
Lucky colour: Violet. Magic Number: 27. CAPRICORN: Be extra careful if you are signing any paper, as there could be more to the situation than meets the eye. Socializing will keep you busy. There could be new career opportunities due to your past efforts. Tarot message: Do not try to end all the deadlocks at one go.
Lucky colour: Metallic grey. Magic Number: 39. AQUARIUS: Health and physical energy is good but you need to take frequent breaks and watch out your diet and fitness routine. Travel plans for business or pleasure are possible. Monetary gains are indicated.
Tarot message: Delays are the only obstacle in your way to success. Lucky colour: Deep red.
Magic Number: 40. PISCES: If there are important meetings today, you need to be focused and prepared as seniors and business associates will take note of your ability to handle last minute changes. Your love life will be good. Tarot message: Act righteously and do your duty on time.
Lucky colour: Navy blue. Magic Number: 61.
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Directed by Ksshitij
Chaudhary, Mr and Mrs 420 brings the much-done-to-death humour back. The film serves as the debut ground for two singers, Babbal Rai and Jassi Gill. It also stars Binnu
Dhillon, Jaswinder Bhalla, Yuvraj Hans, Naresh Kathuria, Avantika Hundal, Swati Kapoor and Shruti Sodhi in the lead role. The story and screenplay of the film is written by Sameep Kang, the director who gave a Punjabi cult film Carry On
Jatta. The dialogues dripping in humour come from Naresh kathuria. 
You share your birthday with actor Abhay Deol (March 15, 1976) today. Dev-D and Oye Lucky Oye fame Abhay is nephew of veteran actor, Dharmendra, and his cousins are Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol and Hema Malini's daughter Esha Deol. This year will establish him as a promising hero.