|
|
|
|
|
Short cut to success
Here the Punjabi film industry is still cribbing about the need for better subjects and better directors while back in Amritsar, one man is being flooded with phone calls. Punjabi film director Navtej Sandhu had to struggle really hard to put together his short film Nooran and he had never thought it would see the light of the day. Today, he can’t believe his luck as the film has got an official entry in the Cannes Film Festival scheduled to take place this year.
This a great feat for the Punjabi film industry, as it gets ready to be recognised at the biggest film festival while rubbing shoulders with other movies from across the globe as well as our very own Bollywood. Navtej Sandhu, who makes his debut with Nooran, puts his phone on silent mode to share a moment with us! Nooran, a 30-minute short film, is inspired by renowned Punjabi writer Balwant Gargi’s story Rabbo Marasan. Navtej had read the story when he was studying in college. “I was immensely touched by it; I wanted to convert it into a movie then and there,” shares the director, who moved on to the next level wherein he had to find a producer for his film. He laughs, “It was much expected, I didn’t find anyone to fund my film. In this commercial age, nobody thought it was wise to invest in a short film.” The director was left with no choice. “I had to put in whatever money I had,” he says, now heaving a sigh of relief. As Nooran gets an official entry in Cannes, Navtej is all thankful to his team. “Sardar Sohi, who has written the screenplay with me and also acted in the film, along with Kul Sidhu, has done a great job.” The film has already been screened in Punjab, Dubai, New Zealand, Canada and Australia. It has also won the best film award at Mumbai and Delhi Film Festivals 2014. The movie is set in the 1960’s when there was a trend in Punjab villages of getting women for unmarried males by paying money. The movie starts by showing the struggle of women in a male-dominated society, but it takes a twist at the end when it shows money can buy a woman but not her emotions and love. Today, Navtej can feel good about his effort, but what if it wouldn’t have happened? “I did not make Nooran thinking of any award. Yes, I wanted it to make the rounds of film festivals. Also just because my film wasn’t getting funds, I couldn’t have just sat there and waited for someone to come for my help,” he shares. Navtej jokes about the fact that he might not be able to go to Cannes with his movie. “I managed to invest in this film; I don’t have that kind of budget to go to France now,” he says, picking up the silent cellphone by his side. He has so much thanking to do! jasmine@tribunemail.com
|
|
A story to tell
Life unfolds in strange ways or so they say. Absolutely true about our country’s leading experimental film-maker Amit Dutta. Decoding whatever intrigued him in his growing years, Amit enjoyed reading James Joyce. Watching films never was a significant part of his growing years, the nearest cinema hall being 45 kilometres away from his hometown, a small village near Jammu.
Call it chance or destiny, a friend gifted Amit a book in Bengali (confused by his surname). Not wanting to be rude, Amit accepted the gift he couldn’t read! It was in that book that the only few words that were in English introduced him to Film and Television Institute of India, Pune. “I was bewildered seeing the syllabus recommended for the first-year and second. Is there a place that teaches all this, I wondered,” recalls Amit, sitting on a bench at Government Museum and Art Gallery-10, where he is for the three-day Cinema and Art Festival, organised by the Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi, on Saturday afternoon. Along with his friends, Amit prepared to sit in the entrance test. Although he was prepared to take two-three attempts to crack it, he made it in first go. Thereafter began a new journey. “The more you are exposed to the world, the more is the urge to explore your roots,” says Amit. The relationship between art and history has been the theme for his films; Kangra miniature paintings occupying a significant part of it. “I had heard about Nainsukh in sayings, but couldn’t really decipher what, who, when and where,” admits Amit. But this master painter had to come alive hundreds of years later through this another son of soil! While exploring art history as a subject, Nainsukh’s reference came again and again — through his professor Suresh Chabria’s lecture or while reading Tagore. Still, Amit had no intentions of making a film on him. However, it was his professor who put him in touch with art historian Eberhard Fischer and the film Nainsukh came into being. “I took a tour with Dr Fischer to all the places where Nainsukh had a connection. We went from Guler, Nurpur to Jasrota, where he lived and worked. It is quite close to the place where I grew up. Interestingly, it took a foreigner to connect me to my roots. Suddenly, I could put meaning to the ruins that were part of my childhood.” Amit acknowledges the contribution of Eberhard Fischer and BN Goswami, who had done considerable work before he took on his project. The film, which premiered at the 67th Venice Film Festival, won accolades and awards at several major international festivals. Amit revisited the area with his film The Seventh Walk that is inspired from artist Paramjit Singh’s works. Amit is one private film-maker who doesn’t want his persona to interfere with the audience’s experience of his works. He fiercely guards his privacy and is far from the tribe of film-makers for whom their works mean material gratification. “It’s the experience that I want to pass on,” says Amit. Nature finds expression in his films; it’s the story of a man and nature that he yearns to tell next. mona@tribunemail.com
|
|
Fair & square
Even years down the line, Vanity Fair continues to draw crowds. For a serious buyer, it isn't a far off place and valet parking only an added advantage. However, for a window-shopper it is not exactly an easy navigation into small stalls while rubbing shoulders with over-zealous customers. Once inside, the heat, the dust and the crowds fade in comparison to the colours, fabrics and accessories. "There are as many as 150 stalls this time displaying their creations from all across the country. While there are labels from Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Jalandhar, Tricity, among several other places, Delhi and Mumbai remain our biggest exhibitors," says Priya Jagat, the organiser.
Vibrant hues Like always, some labels are making their presence felt for the first time, a lot many stood apart while others faded in comparison. Among the several, there was Plumtin from Ludhiana, which stood apart for its elegant yet vibrant collection of dupattas. Then there's the city-based label Couture by Mona Jawandha. Another city-based label Shell and Sanj, had detachable Peter Pan collars in various prints. Shares Pushpa, from Mumbai-based Kaayaa, "We come here each year. This time, we are displaying over 150 outfits." Traditional touch While some follow fashion blindly and like their things as contemporary as possible, there are others who'd like to go as traditional as it gets. There's Kapaas from Kolkata, with outfits in Kantha work, Aura from Jalandhar with cotton outfits. Arishi, an Ahmedabad-based label, brings all traditional work from Gujarat." Pop art A sudden pop of colour, quirky prints and kitsch seemed to be the toast of the season. There's the label Pink Champaigne with women's wear in bright hues and prints. First timers All Things Sundar, a label from Mumbai, brings totes, cluthes and bags, all with a splash of several colours at the same time. Ditto from Viviana from Delhi and Falgunsak by Davina from Delhi. At the entrance, She Shoo by Delhi, yet another label, which has always been there, is as crowded as the fair itself. Laughs Asif Merchnat, exhibitor from ANZ Designs, with its collection of footwear and bags, "I exhibit all over India. The demand and tastes of people depend on the place. In the north, I've noticed, the blingier, the better." A quotable quote! (On till March 23, 2014 at Whispering Willow, Zirakpur)
|
|
|
Wholesome experience
At the Kylin Experience, Elante Mall, Chandigarh, they believe in pampering their women clients. So, the restaurant organised hand massages, mini-facials and skincare consultation in association with L'occitane on Friday. "The idea behind organising this event is essentially to indulge our women clients, who we take special care of," shares Saurabh Khanijo, Ceo of Kylin Experience.
"We keep organising such fun-filled evenings over wine and oriental delicacies frequently. We will soon be organising Goddess nights every Friday, wherein the women can indulge in free drinks," he shares. Saurabh elaborates, "We have all kinds of oriental cuisines, straight from the diverse flavours from Thailand, Japan and China. Add to that an exotic selection of Sake and some adventurous Cocktails and we can see a winning menu taking shape," he shares. As the wine kept pouring in parallel proportion to the number of the fashionable elites, who walked in and indulged in hand massages, facials and skincare consultation.
|
|
|
A keen eye
Suresh Chabria opted for film appreciation at the Film and Television Institute of India, Pune, leaving behind his academic career — a decision he sure doesn't regret now. In Chandigarh for a three-day Cinema and Art Festival organised by Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi, Chabria's Film Appreciation Workshop was a hit on day one.
Suresh put loads of research in his much acclaimed book Light of Asia: Indian silent cinema, a period that he believes was small but significant. "That era defined genres - social, mythological, thriller, action, and established the star system too," says Suresh. The introduction of sound changed the foreign film loving category into lovers of Indian cinema in a short duration of two to three years. "But it was not the language that made the shift. It was music in our films that won the audience," Suresh points out. From the 1950s, which was called the golden era in our cinema, to the 60s and 70s, when the focus moved to crime films, Suresh talks eloquently on different eras of our cinema, "Most significant has been coming of multiplexes recently. Now not only mass productions but even eclectic films targeted at a certain audience do well." Today's100-crore club genre, which exploits star power, and hugely marketing-driven industry is not what interests Suresh. "If I have the energy and time, I would like to write a book on the decade of 1930s."
|
|
|
star track
Meanwhile, Ranveer Singh will be seen in his first ever endorsement commercial, which is for a condom brand. He is the first Indian male actor to do so and he feels that safe sex is a social cause too.
A birthday to remember
Kangana Ranaut threw a big birthday bash over the weekend and also celebrated the success of Queen. She has hiked her fee to Rs 3.5 to 4 crores per movie after Queen.
I versus myself!
Anushka Sharma now has two films releasing on the same day of Christmas 2014. These two are also the biggest releases of the year: PeeKay with Aamir Khan and Bombay Velvet with Ranbir Kapoor.
Katrina Kaif will have two films releasing on Gandhi Jayanti in 2014, which are Bang Bang with Hrithik Roshan and Phantom with Saif Ali Khan. She is trying to convince her director buddies to shift either of the film.
All eyes on Hollywood
Mallika Sherawat has bagged a role in American television series Hawaii-Five-O. She plays a Muslim woman whose son is kidnapped by the Taliban. She is trying hard to break into the Hollywood circuit by making small appearances here and there.
Priyanka on a roll
Priyanka Chopra may be cast as Kashibai, which is an important role in Bajirao-Mastani. The character is the wife of Bajirao. The movie will roll in 2015.
|
|
|
chatter box Love knows no boundaries. And like a bruised tiger, an injured heart evokes the strongest of feelings. Currently in Bade Achhe Lagte Hain, Pihu (Sonia Balani) is facing the same kind of problem, having come to know the fact that her husband Sammy (Lavin Gothi) does not love her and still pines for his ex girlfriend Suhani (Ekta Kaul). Blaming her mother Priya (Sakshi Tanwar) for her problems, Pihu will now decide to separate Priya from Ram (Ram Kapoor). Pihu will realise that her parents love each other a lot and that Priya is still deeply and madly in love with Ram. And this fact will further infuriate Pihu. Thinking that her mother has spoilt her life, she will also decide to pay her in the same coin. Pihu will confront Ram and ask him to stay away from Priya as she has been using black magic to keep their lives in disarray.
|
|
|
Astro turf
ARIES: Sacrifices made today can put you in a far better place for the future. A real estate transaction should not be started. Sudden travel can disturb certain plans.
A long-awaited issue finally gets settled. Tarot message: Focus on monetary aspects.
Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 60.
TAURUS: 'The Moon' reveals that you can stretch your relationship a bit too far. Speak your mind to your beloved to clear any misunderstanding. Property deals get concluded. Tarot message: Don't be too certain about obtaining a clearance.
Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 42. GEMINI: It is a day to forget worries of work. Talk to superiors and see what they can offer. Romance is likely to occupy your mind. Uncooperative family members will throw a spanner in your life. Tarot message: You need to take things slowly.
Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 62. CANCER: Today you will be in an enthusiastic frame of mind. Matters connected with the state or government agency will go through smoothly. Loss through speculation is on the cards.
Tarot message: Change the status quo both at work and in relationships. Lucky colour: Grey.
Magic number: 29. LEO: Try to get some time for yourself today. Relax and be a little more tolerant.
You will be in a mood to find fault with people who are dear to you; curb this habit.
Tarot message: Follow your instinct. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 30. VIRGO: Teamwork is the keynote of the day. Home life will be pleasant. Older people may
drum up certain problem. Check your car before you set out for a long journey.
Tarot message: Draw on your inner energies. Lucky colour: Rusty. Magic number: 64. LIBRA: Life is not always a bed of roses. Relatives will be sensitive and difficult to get along with.
Do not get involved in any land deal. Emotions have to be controlled. No pain no gain.
Tarot message: A confrontation needs to be managed with care. Lucky
colour: Royal-blue. Magic number: 59. SCORPIO: Let a project take its time. You will be happy in the company of friends. Handle property matters carefully. Some of you can suffer from finances insecurity, but it will be a temporary phase. Tarot message: Be sure you don't play tricks on yourself. Lucky colour: Crimson.
Magic number: 41. SAGITTARIUS: Relax; there is no work pressure at all. Friends will be easy-going and willing to fall in
love with your plans. Property matters are highlighted. A romantic alliance is likely.
Tarot message: Do not let anyone take advantage of you. Lucky colour: Burgundy.
Magic number: 46. CAPRICORN: It is the best day to get things done by people in power. You will get an opportunity to become the member of an important club. Family affairs
run along smoothly. Tarot message: Be determined and increase your self-confidence.
Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 25. AQUARIUS: Love relations bubble with excitement.
Making a spontaneous trip can fill the need for variety. Students will get down to their tasks and creative hobbies.
Tarot message: Win the war with honesty, not by distorting facts. Lucky
colour: Cream. Magic number: 27. PISCES: Tendencies for manipulation or revenge should be controlled and contained. Believe in your own worth. Political bosses: danger looms large over the head. It is a right day for investment in property. Tarot message: Trust
your heart and intuition. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 43.
|
|
|
The year ahead
If your birthday is March 23...
Ruled by number 5 and planet Mercury, you are practical, energetic, trustworthy and intuitive. You are highly popular in your group because you are witty and intelligent. You'll be loquacious and a superior will be pleased by the way you express yourself. It is a good time for career growth. Getting a high profile job or attaining master status will happen so long as you keep plugging away behind the scenes. Don't tell anybody about your journey until the end is in sight. During the year, you will achieve all your goals if you can concentrate on the present. Stay calm. Positive colours: Green, Turquoise, Green, Blue. Select days: Wednesday, Friday. Favourable numbers: 5, 6. Charity on birthday: Donate wheat and gur to the needy.
You share your birthday with Nicholle Tom (March 23, 1978), who is an American actress best known for her roles as Ryce Newton in Beethoven (1992), Beethoven's 2nd (1993), Beethoven (1994-1995) and as Maggie Sheffield on The Nanny.
|
|
| HOME PAGE | |
Punjab | Haryana | Jammu & Kashmir |
Himachal Pradesh | Regional Briefs |
Nation | Opinions | | Business | Sports | World | Letters | Chandigarh | Ludhiana | Delhi | | Calendar | Weather | Archive | Subscribe | E-mail | |
Shuddhi is most likely to star Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh in the lead roles after Hrithik Roshan and Kareena Kapoor Khan left the movie. The casting will be finalised soon.
Gems recommended: Emerald, Ruby.