|
|
|
|
|
A heady mix
Chic quotient
When we last met Raakesh Agarwval, he was done with his sabbatical and claimed to work each moment on his comeback collection at the IFW. He also promised that his collection would be sexier than ever and emphasised on the attribute time and again. On Wednesday, as he rolled out his collection, Seduce Not By Control, aptly titled, his creations explained what he meant. Combination of crystals, diamante, embellishments, leather, feathers, spike high boots and thigh high boots, gave shape to bondage fashion, with the sole aim to seduce fashion lovers to indulge in his designs.
All that drape
What looked like a derivative of her last year's collection, Kiran Uttam Ghosh's this year outing was rich in drapes but managed to score just average in terms of a novel idea. There were calf-length skirts, sheer wide net trousers and dresses with asymmetrical hemlines. She played with sheer, as the creations were done in net and textured georgettes. Antique and rose gold dominated the colour palette. But with drapes and layers, there is an added advantage; they make a design difficult to be replicated. How do you think it is possible with Tarun Tahiliani's creation for his show-stopper, Shilpa Shetty? The collection comprised dhoti and lungi drape inspired pants. Then there were tunics, gilets scarves, kurtas, vintage dresses and kaftans. Layers also were an element in Vineet Bahl's collection Utsav, strictly created from handloom. His cropped parallels have given a new twist to the plazzos. As the name suggests, the colour palette, includes just any you can think of-red, green yellow, orange, white, with only the black missing. ashima@tribunemail.com
|
|
Easy elegance
On the menu is everything that a chef can offer - continental, Indian, Thai, Italian, Lebanese, Chinese. “The products have been flown in from Dubai and Thailand to add variety to the menu,” says Nishant Kumar, whose resume boasts of working with Vivanta by Taj Coral Reef and Six Senses Resort and Spas, a seven-star in Maldives. He has brought in some interesting recipes in the form of Mushroom Cappuccino, a frothy take of the soup. “Continental and Italian cuisines will be our best sellers.” You must also try Thai Curry; it is perfectly cooked with all the flavours intact, though chicken curry is where they missed the point. Even when it comes to Italian, pasta was creamy, minus any vegetables, but it tastes how it ought to and the same goes for the thin crust smoked chicken pizza, which was fresh and tasted well. Ameena Bhaike, besides contributing to the interiors of the place, is the designated pastry chef of the restaurant. A masters in engineering, otherwise, she left her job to follow her passion and pursued a six-month course in Paris to learn baking. Her love for baking becomes apparent as she serves mango panna cotta, which is fresh from the setting and is a welcome change from the usual chocolate-based desserts. The desert menu also boasts of the unusual mango caviar, red wine caviar…something that has been made possible through molecular gastronomy. The eating joint is serving a comprehensive a la carte menu, a signature of restaurants, but has the seating arrangements typical of a lounge. “We didn’t want to go for the usual table chair concept. The idea was to introduce relaxed dining, the kitchen and lounge concept is new to the city and we are hopeful that it will be appreciated by food lovers,” says Preet.
|
|
Comical note
Directed by Jaswinder Singh, the film has also stars Razaak Khan and Shakti Kapoor along with BN Sharma and Jaswinder Bhalla. But we are mostly interested in the edu-com genre; Gaurav Bhalla, the screenplay and dialogue-writer of the film takes the onus to explain this newly coined term. “This is the first Punjabi film where we have used 31 proverbs,” he shares, thus explaining in short and extremely brief words as to what makes the film an educational comedy. Moving on to the lead pair — Navraj Hans and Keeya Khanna; the two actors play Raj and Simran in Punjabi ishtyle! Keeya jokes about it, “I would often tell Navraj that he is a desi Raj.” As for Raj, Navraj Hans, nothing can beat his positive attitude. Despite the string of flop of comedies that have scarred Punjabi cinema, he feels there is nothing to worry about. “I feel totally positive about my film as well as the film industry. If we keep talking about the flops, then who will make films and see them,” says this singer-actor. Navraj finds a lot of content in the film and he is also of the view that we should feel proud about Punjabi cinema. “Generally, when a Punjabi singer’s song releases in Bollywood, they tweet endlessly about it. I think, they should be equally proud of Punjabi films; we are no less than Bollywood,” he says with confidence in his eyes. It is a different story that the dark shades on his eyes wouldn’t let us see that confidence! Marriage Da Garriage boasts of a battery of actors from Bollywood, a USP that Gaurav Bhalla stumbled upon. “I have seen that the audience watches films for stars, even if the star hasn’t done anything. Our film has a lot of ‘stars’ to watch out for.” Laugh if off if you want! jasmine@tribunemail.com
|
|
|
Fair affair
The 70 exhibitors, showcasing at the exposition, proudly put their fashionable fabrics forward. There is a wide array of textiles to choose from in an even larger variety of prints and colours. Shares ASMA Shehzad Khan, CEO, Ask Designer, “We come here each year and the response of people has always been great, especially Chandigarh. Women like to pick up fabrics depending on the weather. For summer, our lawn cotton suits have been a hot favourite among women here.” There are palazzo pants, palazzos and embroidered motifs in every conceivable colour as well as shape on fabrics ranging from chiffon, georgette to cotton. Did we miss out the colours? If somebody’s looking for a scarlet, yes scarlet and not crimson, they are likely to find it. A long summer calls for colourful options in breathable fabrics - a prime factor that dictates the choice of clothing. “Women here pick up stuff according to the weather. Give them anything in chiffon, whether it embroidered, printed or dyed and that gets picked up instantly,” shares yet another exhibitor. “This is for the first time I’m exhibiting here though I’ve been to Amritsar and Ludhiana before. The response at Ludhiana was phenomenal. Women there are fond of bling and bright outfits,” opines Furqaan Afzal, while showcasing his collection comprising evening, semi-formal and bridal wear. As for Chandigarh, he observes, “From whatever little I’ve noticed, women like subtle colours and are slightly price conscious.” Howver, the Famous Pakistani Food Court is being highly missed. Opines Faisal Azeem, vice chairman, The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry, “Don’t know, but they haven’t allowed a food court this time, which is disappointing because our food is special and highly appreciated here.” (On till March 31, at Himachal Bhawan-28, Chandigarh) manpriya@tribunemail.com
|
|
|
A teller of tales
Among the many authors and illustrators that were part of her childhood, Ruskin Bond and illustrator Pulak Biswas have left indelible impressions on Srivi, who is a multifaceted artist, writer and illustrator today. Teaching children in innovative ways is what interests her. Currently pursuing her Masters in Arts in Education at Harvard Graduate School of Education, she is happy writing and organising workshops for kids. Her workshops with kids engage art in various forms; she even holds poetry workshops with children as small as five. “Working with the young is so interesting.” What Srivi is positive about is the multiple media to make the stories reach the children. “There is a variety of mediums vying for kids’ attention.” Having studied and taught in India and the US, ask her on how she compares the two education systems and she says, “There is this liberty of expression that’s there in the US and missing from many of our schools. However, both the countries can use a lot more of arts to make learning engaging for children.” mona@tribunemail.com Write note
Chatura Rao settled into writing after a maze of careers. Although Chatura wrote for adults like her, the Amie And The Chawl Of Colour was perceived differently by publishers. Since then she has written numerous bed-time, spooky stories, for kids. A documentary and a novel aimed at young adults are up next.
|
|
|
Ileana ’s dream run
Best friends
Kareena and I chill out a lot together, go out for dinners and movies. We met on the sets of Happy Ending (her upcoming film with Saif Ali Khan) in LA and since then have bonded like long lost sisters. I am a regular, homely girl and so is she. Private corner
I maybe in love, but my private life stays that way. I don't make a big fuss about it because marriage is not important. I think it is overrated. I'd like a guy to remain committed to me, but not stay by my side just because he's married to me. Laughing out
I've laughed the hardest watching David Dhawan entertainers so when he called me to be a part in his next, I was ecstatic. My favourite film of David Dhawan is Biwi No. 1. More masala
I do not think that I will get stereotyped for masala movies. These are the films that audiences flock the theatres to watch and you want to win the box-office more than anything. I've always been fond of masala entertainers and my films Down South are a testimony to that. Fortunate break
I was fortunate that Barfi! happened to me. It was my The Dirty Picture and Kahaani! But such films don't come to you very often. Treading the Barfi! path would have typecast me as the 'arty type', a tag that I am not too comfortable with. Golden girl
Deepika Padukone is the only Bollywood star in recent times to feature on the cover of India Today magazine regularly, which is no mean feat. Deepika is also the biggest Bollywood celebrity on Facebook with 15 million followers or fans, more than any other Bollywood celebrity's official page. She has even chatted live with her fans from time to time. Moving on
The editor of Revolver Rani, Shan Mohammed has left the film mid-way due to non-payment of dues. The film is set to release on April 25 and the first cut is not ready, so the makers have roped-in veteran editor Aarti Bajaj to do the honours.
|
|
|
Focus matters
Actress Sarika has adviced her younger daughter Akshara Haasan to focus on her film debut with Dhanush, instead of her relationship with Tanuj Virwani who is Rati Agnihotri's son. Akshara is not listening to her mother and continues to spend time with her boyfriend.
parental guidance: Akshara with Sarika
Ranbir to play Sanjay Dutt?
If people of the film industry are to be believed, a biopic on the life of Sanjay Dutt, directed by Rajkumar Hirani, will soon take shape. The film, to be produced under the banner of Sanjay Dutt Productions, will have Ranbir Kapoor playing Dutt. According to an insider, the project got locked just last week, a few days before Sanjay Dutt's parole was to get over. Considering the life the experienced actor has led, this film promises to be one challenging role for the Kapoor boy. It is heard that Manyata and Sanjay wanted only Rajkumar Hirani to direct the film. As it is, Dutt and Hirani share an emotional bond and are very close to each other with them having worked together in Munnabhai M.B.B.S. and Lage Raho Munna Bhai. Hirani is currently busy with the post-production work of the Aamir Khan-starrer P.K, which also stars Sanjay Dutt. It is also being said that Hirani would take up helming the film once he finishes with P.K. Dutt, who was on an extended parole to attend to his ailing wife, went back to Yerawada jail last weekend.
|
|
|
Diving deep
Joining hands
Saif Ali Khan has reunited with the team of Excel Entertainment after more than a decade. Excel's Dil Chahta Hai redefined his career and image. He will play a suave lover in the upcoming film.
No comeback for Shilpa yet
While other Bollywood actress may be itching to get back on celluloid post their marriage, Shilpa Shetty doesn't seem to be in a great hurry to get back into the scheme of things as far as acting is concerned. Putting family first, Shilpa clarified, "I am still in touch with my fans through television. My son is very young and I don't want to leave him alone so soon. Maybe after one-and-a-half years, I will think of returning." The 38-year-old actress, who has now turned producer with Dishkiyaoon, added, "It's payback time. I have received so much love from the audience, so I think in should return it all through this film." Dishkiyaoon, starring Sunny Deol, Harman Baweja and Ayesha Khanna, will open on March 28.
Seeking blessings
Alvira Agnihotri, sister of Salman Khan and wife of Atul Agnihotri, visited the Golden Temple in Amritsar to pray for the success of the movie O Teri. The movie is a satire comedy starring Pulkit Samrat and Bilal Amrohi. Her sister Arpita Khan was also along with her.
|
|
|
Impressing Aamir
No, we are not talking about insanely popular rapper Yo Yo Honey Singh but a 7th standard student from Mumbai by the name of Honey Singh, who impressed Aamir Khan! Aamir Khan and Svati Chakravarty (co-director of Satyamev Jayate) on Sunday visited IIT Powai to see the episode with 1,500 students. It was a packed house and the discussion majorly revolved around how individually one could make a difference.
Lots of students asked a lot of relevant questions and the session went on for more than an hour. However, Aamir was most impressed by Honey Singh, a student merely in the 7th standard who is huge fan of the show SMJ and Aamir Khan. He asked Aamir what kind of difficulties the actor faced during the making of all the episodes. There were so many professors and students at the discussion, who had asked all kinds of question, but the only one who understood that it may not have been easy for the actor was a child from the 7th grade! In response Aamir said he didn't feel any pressure from political parties or the administration. But on and off, a few people did get upset when they revealed the truth about them. The actor was quite amazed by Honey's question to him. Satyamev Jayate wraps up this Sunday after yet another successful and impact-making season.
|
|
|
Together they can
The special sequence will have Sharda coming to the rescue of a young girl who gets molested by a gang of ruthless men. In the run to save the girl, Sharda will get attacked by the group of hooligans. But in the nick of time, Jackky will arrive to save Sharda and will applaud her for the courage shown. Talking about his experience about working with the talented actress Poonam Dhillion, Jackky says, "Ekk Nayee Pehchaan is one of my favourite shows as it conveys a very important message of Women Empowerment. It was a great experience working with Poonam. I was so awestruck by her that I feared I would miss my lines, but she made me feel really comfortable"
|
|
|
In the zombieland
Get ready to experience the blood thirsty zombies as Fox Traveller launches its brand new show The Walking Dead. The show is a terrifying and exhilarating story of a small group of survivors living in the aftermath of a zombie apocalypse. Based on a comic book series of the same name, the show is the story of a police officer, Rick Grimes, who wakes up from coma to find the world ravaged with zombies. Looking for his family, he and a group of survivors battle against the horrifying zombies in order to stay alive. With the coming in of the new show, Debarpita Banerjee, vice president-marketing, Fox International Channels said, "Fox Traveller believes in making any journey a lot of fun, which is why, we introduce a generous dose of experimentation and fun on FT-The Walking Dead. An international hit, we are confident that this series will be hugely appreciated here as well." The show starts on March 29.
|
|
|
Role with a difference
Laapataganj is a lively TV series, which shows daily life happenings in a small village. In a small town like Laapataganj, where people enjoy their daily lives sprinkled with sweet moments of laughter and happiness, an interesting character will make a grand entry. Vineet Raina aka Bajrang Bajpai is the latest addition to the show. Vineet said, "This is the first time I have got an opportunity to be a part of a successful show like Lapataganj, which shows different characters in real-life like situations. In contrast to all the other characters on the show, I will be playing a typical action loving cop with a streak of filmy romance in his mannerisms. It's a larger than life character. There is another twist to this character, which will be revealed as the show will progress."
For greener pastures
Manish Paul has apparently quit Sunil Grover's comedy show, Mad In India. He has signed another Bollywood film and so will be busy. However, rumours claim the makers wanted more of Sunil's comic character Chutki on the show. Let's see what new changes are in store in the show.
|
|
|
From crude to cute
Chandramukhi Chautala is an adept police officer fighting crime and solving cases in her own unique way. Kavita Kaushik, who plays the lead as Chandramukhi has always stated that she has a liking for Marathi culture. Incidentally, Kavita has got an opportunity to act as a Maharashtrian in an upcoming track of FIR, wherein she will be seen as 'Gangubai' in a traditional nine yard saree.
Kavita is really excited for this part and has done extensive research.
|
|
|
New Releases
Producer: Atul Agnihotri Trade pundits say, O Teri is a very real, very believable. Salman Khan's presence adds colour to this clean entertainer.
Dishkiyaoon
Producer: Shilpa Shetty, Raj Kundra, Eros International
Youngistaan
Producers: MSM Motion Pictures, Pooja Entertainment & Films Ltd., |
|
|
Astro Turf
ARIES: Minor pinpricks provoke you. Workers in the factories will cause a number of delays. Home life will cause some interference. Newly married will find home atmosphere tense. Tarot message: Empty promises are certain, therefore try to put your terms in writing. Lucky colour: Pomegranate red. Magic number: 32.
TAURUS: Your card "Four of Wands" promises an excellent day. Take a break from work. Do not feel guilty about taking time out to look after your well-being, both mental and physical. Focus on meditation. Tarot message: Delays are the only obstacle in your way to success. Lucky colour: Ebony.
Magic number: 42. GEMINI: Charm, diplomacy, respect and co-operation are far better attributes to employ in dealing with people if you want positive results. Job applications yield good results. You will feel unsettled. Tarot message: Do what is right and watch your best interests. Lucky colour: Pink.
Magic number: 65. CANCER: Your magnanimity can get the better of you when you offer to host a party at your place. Turn your attention to jobs that give you an opportunity to make the best use of your intellect. Tarot message: Don't be dismissive of advice from youth.
Lucky colour: Royal blue. Magic number: 36. LEO: Now is the time to distinguish clearly between wants and needs. Your desires seem to have no end but your bank account will dry up. You can look forward to hearing from a friend who can drop in anytime soon. Tarot message: Beware of depleting your energy or resources on others. Lucky colour: Cream. Magic number: 33. VIRGO: Stick to what you know and do best and you won't go wrong. Reason it out before matters spiral out of hand. Do not let too many people know what you are planning.
Tarot message: Versatility will bail you out of a situation. Lucky colour: Turquoise.
Magic number: 64. LIBRA: Doing overtime or dealing with a crisis are all possible reasons for being dragged back to the workplace. Make the best of your work. A chance encounter with an ex-flame may revive old memories. Tarot message: Do not lose your temper. Lucky colour: Saffron.
Magic number: 24. SCORPIO: Funds can be increased if extra effort is put in. You should give a serious thought to your business. Decisions that need to be made especially involving career should not be put off. Tarot message: Focus on the better to mitigate the bitter.
Lucky colour: Silver grey. Magic number: 54. SAGITTARIUS: Major domestic purchases can be made with confidence. Be patient. Students: You can be successful in your written tests. Love life suffers due to family problems. Be assured of abundance of fine food and drink.
Tarot message: Take limited risks with your capital. Lucky colour: Sea green. Magic number: 60. CAPRICORN: Put knowledge into practice or learn how to do something better. Working women: Be careful while dealing with the clients. Children may enjoy the company of their parents. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid the in-built delays that come your way. Lucky colour: Peacock green. Magic number: 29. AQUARIUS: Your card is Fortune, so this can be a good day on the financial front Women between the age group of 40-45 must take care of their health. Hostelers may enjoy on the campus. Sportsmen especially cricketers may win the game. Tarot message: Use careful judgment. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 61. PISCES: Schedule a group meeting today. They can be both productive and enjoyable. Selling big goals may seem unrealistic. If you shoot for what you really want, it just might happen. usinessmen: Tarot message: Work could pose certain minor difficulties but don't worry. Lucky colour: Rainbow pastels. Magic number: 55
|
|
|
The year ahead
If your birthday is March 28...
Your birth on the 28th day of March modifies your life-path by increasing your capability to function and succeed in the business world. You would be able to concentrate more on work. Efforts to earn financial gains will bring average results. There could be worries related to personal life. Take proper care of your diet, especially migraine patients, who should not miss their meal, otherwise it could give them stress. You are likely to earn through most unexpected sources. Make new friends but be careful in your selection. Good friends are like a treasure you always want to preserve. This is a wonderful year to negotiate with new clients. Do not try politics. Positive colours: Golden, red, brown, cream Select days: Sunday and Monday Favourable numbers: 1,4,2,7 Gems recommended: Yellow sapphire and red coral Charity on birthday: You may donate white edible items or dresses to needy.
You share your birthday with Akshaye Khanna (March 28, 1975, Mumbai) son of Vinod Khanna. He is known for his dimpled smile. Akshaye's stars are favourable in 2015.
|
|
| 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 | |
You get a better understanding of why fashion designers insist on re-introducing themselves as contemporary artists post a look at the collections presented on day one of Wills India Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2014. It was a heady mix of grace, aesthetics; elegance, art and fashion that took centrestage on the ramp this time, making 'fashion-for-the-heck-of-it' look so redundant. Models strutting down the ramp in Tarun Tahiliani's creations served as a prelude to what was impending - more fashion whipped with more art and the happy marriage between the two.
Out came jackets, dresses, body suits and gowns in colours that were in tandem with the theme; black in majority, followed by beige and golden. If Raakesh used Western silhouettes to elaborate on his intentions behind making clothes, Anupamma Dayal stuck to ethnic cuts. But both designers unintentionally shared the same concept of highlighting the sex appeal of their creations. Plunging necklines of blouses made for the floor length bottom wear, lehangas or even sarees. Titled Kama, the collection was inspired by the Kamasutra, written in 400 BC. Anupama hadn't just alluded to the physical aspects, but also encompassed the emotions. The colour palette was bright; from red to green to yellow to orange. Glitter was added to by zardosi, gotta patti, pearl embroidery; meant for the pre or post wedding ceremonies, the fabrics used for the designs were brocade, chanderi and tangail.
The lamps used are certainly not a discovery by any standards. You can spot them at all the flea markets or hung randomly outside houses, at least they haven’t qualified ever for the décor that defines class and elegance. But that’s creating magic all about—picking up regular stuff to make the unusual. In this case, the interior decorators Preet Thind and Ameena Bhakiye assembled lamps in blue, red, green, yellow… and made a chandelier out of these, something that welcomes you as you enter Rustic Door. It’s only the name and a door placed in the basement made of mirrors, where the rustic part of the newly opened restaurant in Sector 10, Chandigarh, ends. Rest is all uber chic but aesthetically done; the interiors of the place outscore the food by decimal points though.
You’ve heard about situational comedy, you’ve heard about slapstick comedy and you’ve heard about dark comedy. Punjabi film Marriage Da Garriage brings you an altogether different kind of comedy —educational comedy! Now, this can happen only in a Punjabi film. Starring Navraj Hans and Keeya Khanna, the film introduces a new genre for Pollywood — edu-com! Okay; you are allowed to laugh here.
After Bollywood, which is the next best thing to promote peace between the neighbouring rivals? Fashion knows no boundaries, only bargains! If people-to-people contact between the two countries is anything to go by, there is love lost between the two countries. The 6th edition of Made In Pakistan, put together by the Confederation of Indian Industries, opens to large receptive crowds that were more than ready to welcome traders from across the border!
Her story of life is simple. When at kindergarten, little Srivi would hurry home to play ‘teacher’ to her set of dolls and by class one, she knew she would be one. Srini Kalyan is in city for the Chandigarh Children’s Literature Festival.
While she writes both for children and adults, her Mahadeva and other stories, A Pearl, A costly pearl! and Hanuman’s Adventures in the Nether World are amongst the 40 books that she authored; numerous others she has illustrated even for NCERT. Her writings have won her honours. Whether aimed at the young or adults, you see a philosophical touch, use of metaphors and interwoven layers in her works. “Most of my works are grounded in Indian aesthetics.” 
Ileana D'Cruz made an impressive debut in Barfi! and has gone on to do potboilers like Phata Poster Nikla Hero and Main Tera Hero. She is also part of Saali Kutti and Happy Endings. She talks about movies and more.
Shraddha Kapoor is an adventure sports freak and has been approached by Kochi-based Scuba Divers to be their brand ambassador. Shraddha is a trained and certified Scuba diver.
It will be a double bonanza for the fans of Sony Entertainment Television's Ekk Nayi Pehchaan, a show which stands up for women empowerment. Sharda, the lead protagonist will be seen fighting against the exploitation of women and in this fight of hers she will be accompanied by Jackky Bhagnani, who will be seen promoting his film Youngistaan, in which he essays the role of a young politician.
The world we knew is gone. An epidemic of apocalyptic proportions has swept the globe causing the dead to rise and feed on the living. In a matter of months society has crumbled. The world is ruled by the dead and staying alive is the only thing that matters. Does this send a chill down your spine?