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Poll affair
Suddenly, the city so far defined by French architecture is making news for its four candidatures. By now, we know the issues they stand for, the promises they've made and the claims at stake. Perhaps, in the heat of election campaign what remains overshadowed is the other side of our to-be representative. What do they like, how do they arrive, what are their tastes in films, music, fashion and the like. After all, the people ought to know every bit of their elected leader. In brief conversation with 'the famous four' beyond the chaos of election crowds…
Wave of change: Gul Panag, AAP
Well, she is the girl who's got everything going for her —affiliation to a party that has redefined the struggle for The Lower House, a promise that political awakening holds and the youth that have come out in support with a vengeance. We've seen the Chandigarh girl Gul Panag ride a bike on her wedding, play all the frills onscreen and ride a cycle for election campaigning. No wonder then, getting through the otherwise accessible and media savvy Gul, has been next to impossible! Courtesy her busy schedule. Her father Lt Gen H.S Panag, shares, "All the other parties have former election experiences, which is not the case with Gul. She is personally looking after the planning and ideation, and is campaigning from morning to evening." It's a marked shift from a glamorous image to salwar kurtas, the trademark AAP topi and sans the make-up look. Whether a carefully worked out look or a natural progression, she has managed to convince us of the change. I like to unwind: By spending time with my family and my brother's pet Bruno. My energy drink: Chai. I'm a tea person and a cup of tea refreshes me instantly. My political icons:
Margaret Thatcher. One thing about me: I love to run around for one hour everyday but have been managing only half-an-hour for the past couple of weeks. These days, I've been sleeping for only four hours. In election mode: Jeans, boots and a comfortable kurta. I've always been more or less a jeans and a tee person. How I arrive: For elections, I'm using my husband's Mahindra Scorpio.
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Ameesha’s Desi Magic
Actor to producer It is a big challenge to be behind the camera because you have to look into everything but I am a passionate producer. I have all the space and freedom I need. That ends well I know that my film was supposed to have a May release but we have had delays due to my injury and bed-rest, then Kunal Goomer's father was critically ill and hospitalised, Zayed Khan had a ligament tear and he was immobile for a month. But it is okay and the film will release in August. Confident enough I am confident instead of being nervous. I felt the same when Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai released and I was written off because I was not a star kid and did not have a godfather but I am still around. I have done some good movies. Something for everyone There is a little bit of everything from action to comedy to romance to drama to suspense and even glamour along with a traditional Indian favour. I cannot talk about specifics right now. On the fashion front Manish Malhotra and I actually used my wardrobe in the movie. I had people who guarded my trunks and cases full of international designer wear. I have a walk-in closet at home and Manish calls it Ameesha Ka Boutique. The character of Sonia in the movie has a walk-in closet too and we used my clothes and accessories.
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Farhan is protective of girls
Farhan Akhtar is extremely protective of the girls in his team. He is concerned about their safety at all times.
His manager and hair stylist are both girls and Farhan has often spoken to them about not taking their safety lightly. He has even given instructions to his security and crew to have the girls ahead of him in the entourage while they are traveling. Farhan has been traveling extensively with his band Farhan Live across cities. In the recent past they have visited cities like Goa, Bangalore, Allahabad, Ranchi, Belgaum and Kolkata. The band has got a fantastic response and there are umpteen fans who assemble for these shows. His fans want to meet him for pictures and autographs, which creates a slight security hassle. Farhan's spokesperson confirms, "Farhan has personally briefed his team to ensure the security and safety of the girls in his team at all times. Farhan has always been concerned for the welfare and safety of the people who work for him."
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The update on Bajirao Mastani
Ranveer Singh has become a formidable name in Bollywood and he is spoilt for choice. He has chosen Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Bajirao Mastani over Karan Malhotra's Shuddhi. It was a tough decision but he managed taking it. While Bajirao has been cast, the casting is still open for Mastani. The contenders are Kareena Kapoor, Deepika Padukone and Katrina Kaif. Let us see who gets this one!
A blind replica
The first look of The Expose is out and it is so heavily inspired by The Great Gatsby. We don't like it at all. Himesh Reshammiya is no Leonardo DiCaprio and he should stick to singing and composing music.
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No honour in this one
Jasmine Singh
As for the rest of the film, we bet at least the producer would be shrieking aloud- Rubba Maaf Kareen ki main eh film banai! We bet Tom Alter and Gulshan Grover would be saying the same thing - Rubba Maaf Kareen ki asi is picture vich kam kareya! Coming to what a dishonour the team has done to a film that was based on such a sensitive topic - Punjabi film Honour Killing directed by Avtar Bhogal is an attempt that falls flat from the word go. A film based on honour killings has completely been destroyed from the first scene to the last. Despite the fact that the film is a conglomerate of the best actors - Tom Alter, Gulshan Grover, Prem Chopra, Jawed Sheikh, Zara Sheikh, Sandeep Singh - it still comes across as a childish attempt. This is like giving a Canon Mark 4 camera to a five-year-old and expecting him to get professional pictures! You will not get any sense of the subject till the first half of the film, as the director is busy focusing on either lip locks or some useless songs or heavy duty dialogues with diffused batteries. There is no detailing in the film, so much so that neither the story nor the director attempts to explain how Tom Alter speaks perfectly fine Punjabi while staying in London! The story, which has been written by the director Avtar Bhogal, could have been put to better use. If we are dealing with sensitive topics like this, at least we shouldn't make a mockery of them. Apart from Tom Alter all the actors have just delivered. In fact, Tom Alter is the only one who outshines in the film. Prem Chopra and Gulshan Grover have been wasted. The lead pair of the film lacks expressions, chemistry and acting talent. They inject slow poison into our minds. Uttam Singh is the music director of the film and some honourable names like Shreya Ghosal, Kunal Ganjawala, Roop Kumar Rathod have sung in the film. Despite this, the music is bad. jasmine@tribunemail.com
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Time for some action
At the music launch of Pollywood's action-thriller Jatt James Bond, one gets a feel that Punjabi cinema is all game for experimentation and Gippi Grewal, the lead actor, reaffirms one's faith in change. Produced by Fortune House Productions and Gurdeep Dhillon, the film features Zarine Khan along with Gurpreet Ghuggi and Vindu Dara Singh. "The film has been directed by Rohit Jugraj, who is a professional at action thrillers. I've been persuading him to work with me for a long time, but he was keeping busy with Sanjay Dutt's film. We were rather lucky to have roped him in now," shares Gippy while adding, "I am anyways a huge fan of action thrillers. So, this film promises entertainment and is very different from the other Punjabi films."
While Jatinder Shah is the music director of the film, the album comprises eight songs, which have been sung by Gippy Grewal, Arif Lohar, Sunidhi Chauhan and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan. A mention of Bollywood singers venturing into Punjabi cinema and Gippy says, "If you hear the song Chaandi di Dabbi, which has been sung by Sunidhi, you'll know how rustic her voice sounds. It's about a voice that fits effortlessly into a song and matches its quality." Sung by Gippy Grewal, the promotional track of the movie, Jattan Diya Tauran Ne, has the female vocals by Shipra Goel and Adrija Gupta. "The song has been written by Kumar, and I had a great time recording it," he says. With Diljit Dosanjh, Gippy says he on cordial terms and that he is like a 'brother' to him, so there arises no question of competition. The album features songs like Mainu Sohnya Afeem Vargi Nu, sung by Sunidhi Chauhan and Gippy Grewal, Kale Kale Rahan Raat Nu, Tere Mera Saath Ho and Rog Pyaar De Dilan Nu. Also, Arif Lohar has sung three songs, including Jis Tan Ny Lagdi Aye and Ek Jugni, Do Jugni, Teen, both written by SM Sadiq. Tu Meri Baby Doll Mein Tera Teddy Bear is another song that has been sung by Gippy. First take After Tulip Joshi, Ragini Khanna and Manisha Lamba, Zarine Khan forays into the Punjabi industry with Jatt James Bond. Excited about this maiden venture, she shares, "When I ventured into Bollywood, it was along with superstar Salman Khan. In Pollywood too, I am working with a Punjabi superstar. I loved working in the film as I am the only girl." She adds, "I did have some trouble with the language and getting the diction right, but Gippy was very supportive." Up next While Gippy reveals that he shall soon be venturing into Bollywood with a film that is tentatively titled, Second Hand Husband, where he will be essaying the lead role, Zarine shares that her film, tentatively titled, Amar Must Die, will be out soon. amarjot@tribunemail.com
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Digging deep
Jal
Set in the Rann of Kutch, Jal is a Hindi film which is about an overconfident water diviner named Bakka, who tries to solve the drought problems in his village, but faces unforeseen circumstances when he tries to help a female ornithologist save flamingos. A different take I like experimental cinema and this one runs on the lines of environmental cinema, so it is very interesting. Saurabh Sehgal, private bank employee Totally gripping I like the plot of the film, but there is no doubt that there are a lot of dry moments in the film. Naveen Singh, Graphic designer Main Tera Hero
Directed by David Dhawan, Main Tera Hero is a Hindi romantic action-comedy film that stars Varun Dhawan, Ileana D'Cruz, and Nargis Fakhri in the lead roles. Total masala The film is a complete David Dhawan entertainment film that features the sense of humour typical of most of his films. Danish Sharma, Freelance web
designer Nothing new The plot of the film is something that Bollywood has been experimenting with for ages now. so there is not much freshness, except the humour quotient. Nitin Kharbanda, student Fun unlimited I like the film. It's a total paisa vasool, but make sure you watch it with your friends. Virsjeet Singh, Student (As told to Amarjot Kaur)
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Medium that matters
You seldom find this rich a variety of artwork under one roof. There are as many genres of visual art as possible, mix media, oil on canvas, acrylic on canvas, figurative art, semi-figurative art, abstract, landscape, and even photographs. A Joyful Journey, a group exhibition by ten artists at Sobha Singh Art Gallery is a place to be for art lovers seeking a visual treat. Each work is different from the other in terms of subject and similar to each other in terms of quality of art. Be it teacher Sikander Singh's work or those by his nine students. "Putting up an exhibition is the only way to judge art, where people walk in, find solace in art and express desire to carry one home," says Sikander, who runs an art academy in Chandigarh.
The best by his students is figurative art, where they have focused on human expressions, showing a range of emotions. In works, where you have straight, blank faces bereft of any expression, a lot is said by canyon like wrinkles on the face of an old women. Rajeev Gupta, a doctor by profession chose as simple a medium to vent out his creativity as pencil on paper. Each fold of the turban that his subject is wearing in the artwork is an evidence of his talent. Jagdeep Singh, a freelance artist found an interesting subject in a Nihang. "I wanted to play with colours on the canvas. Even for a portrait, I have used as many as 15 colours." For the same reason, he also picked cock fighting as the subject, where he used a deluge of colours to paint two cocks in action. "My favourite subject is rural Punjab and its signature elements. I plan to continue working on the same topic, though each time subject will differ." A bit of countryside is also shown in Sikander Singh's artwork. Photographs by Simerpreet Singh Riat are also a delight to watch. A school student lost in his own colourful world is pictured against a black and white backdrop. Rest of the works by Satwinder Singh, Ritka Kamboj, Vikas Kamboj, Sandeep Riat, Ankita Jangid, Ruhiashish Dhiman are equally intriguing and beautiful. On till April 6.
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A friendly web
This girl doesn't like to plan much and loves to take challenges head on. Right from admitting being with Karan Kundra and being single now, Kritika is open to speak her mind. In Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali, on Thursday, Kritika took a while off to talk about her latest show and more… Surf smart I am a web addict myself. When I got to play host on MTV WEB2ED, I loved the idea. Not only I play myself, I get to present and narrate stories. As all of us are online most of the time as are our relationships; there are many a risks lurking just around the corner. There will be 13 episodes that tell terrifying tales of cyber crimes. Little bit of caution and you can save yourself a major hassle. Surf smart, stay safe is the mantra. Wide reach I had acting on my mind right from school, but it would have sounded silly had I said I wanted to be an actor at that time. But when I got the opportunity, I grabbed it. For television actors, recognition is immense. Right from a metro to the interiors, people relate to the characters you play. Working hours are too much though. Long shifts, no breaks - it does get overwhelming at times. Fresh ground People still call me Arohi or Dr Nidhi and I respond, but personally I want to move on from role to role. Yes, these were series that ran for decades and actors enjoyed unprecedented recognition but I want to challenge myself with newer roles. Fitness first Being on TV, there is a certain way you have to look. Exercise if a significant part of the lifestyle. Howsoever long or tiring shifts, I have always taken out time for the gym. I love to vary my workout - running, yoga, but gym works the best as you can always do it anytime, anywhere. Busy schedule I am not at all a TV person and anyhow, working in TV leaves little time to indulge in anything else. Now that I have taken a longish break, I have seen some stuff but mostly movies. I enjoyed Highway, Queen and Ankhon Dekhi lately. Deserved break I have worked for years together. So after my last show, I packed off to Europe with my friends. This was my first trip to Europe; I really enjoyed Amsterdam, Rome, Paris, London and Barcelona. Working hard Working in television, I haven't faced much trouble. Of course you need to be careful, but it's like you can be exploited in any field. As long you take caution, telly is as good or bad a place to work. Family person My parents are my best support system.My father is a dentist and mother nutritionist; they wanted me to be a doctor. mona@tribunemail.com
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Brand new avatar
Debina said, "Mayuri is one of my favourite on-screen personas. She is someone that I connect with. I am really excited to play a Western avatar of her, as it connects with the real me. Incidentally, this idea of westernising Mayuri came from me during a candid discussion with the creative team. I will be shown as a dance teacher and having learnt dance professionally, it also worked in my favour. I will also performing on a popular Bollywood track." Tune in to Chidiya Ghar to catch all the fun and comedy, from Monday to Friday at 9 pm only on SAB TV.
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Lively vibes
Mrunal Thakur can't stop grinning as she has bagged Ekta Kapoor's next — Kumkum Bhagya. Here she talks about it and much more.
How did the show happen? I had recently wrapped up my Marathi film shoot and wasn't really looking at doing another project soon, but my friends told me to give it a try. As the characters were great, I took it up. Doing a show produced by Ekta is superb. Being a TV actor, you get used to working non-stop and somehow I am glad I did so. What's your role in Kumkum Bhagya? I am playing Bulbul, the younger daughter in the family, who is full of life. She loves Abhi, who is a rockstar. She doesn't think twice before speaking. She's super mischievous and an apple of everyone's eye. How is it working with Sriti? We share a good bond, both on and off screen. She is lovely and very protective of me, especially when I play pranks on others in the team. I have learnt a lot of things from her. I remember as a teenager I used to watch the show Jyoti regularly. How is your rapport with Ekta Kapoor? She is a hardworking person. She makes sure she gives character sketches not only to her main lead actors, but all of them so that they can further convince the audience. Are you doing any films? I have a Marathi film Surajya, which has been directed by Santosh Manjrekar.
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Fun & frolic
Arjun Bijlani, who did a TV show recently that shut shop within months, will now be seen in an episodic on Bindaas' Yeh Hai Aashiqui. He will play the role of a person caught in a love triangle. He is excited about doing an episodic, which is his first.
Finding love Sucheta Khanna aka Indumati in SAB TV's Lapataganj can't be happier as she has found the love of her life. She is in love with her co-actor Abbas Khan. The couple hasn't decided on the wedding date, but will soon lock one.
Kapil’s angry! Kapil Sharma is angry that there are allegations that some members of the audience pay huge sums to be part of the show Comedy Nights With Kapil. He tweeted, "If anybody ask you for money to attend d live shoot of comedy nights..he is a fraud.. Its a free entry fr fans..1/2 v invite randomly via twitter n facebook.. anyone caught buying or selling passes.Will face legal action."
Shekhar’s back Shekhar Suman will now be seen on TV yet again on a news channel. He will host Aaj Tak's new election show Election Ooh La La at 9:30 pm. It will be a 30-episode series from Monday to Saturday and will be a satirical take on upcoming elections.
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The year ahead
If your birthday is April 5...
You're governed by the number 5 and Mercury under the Aries sign. You have a pleasant and vivacious personality. Your planning and methodical approach will please seniors. Exercise your questioning, critical and analytical abilities while simultaneously increasing your mental flexibility this year. You will be handsomely rewarded for you efficient and honest approach towards your career. The ability to judge the weaknesses of your opponents will be an asset. Do not let yourself be lazy and careless. Do not take rash decisions, especially when negotiating major financial deals. You need to relax and try to find happiness amongst close friends as well as family members. Be careful as falling in love can be slippery. Positive colours: Green, Turquoise, Blue. Select days: Wednesday, Friday. Favourable numbers: 5, 6. Gems recommended: Emerald, Ruby.
You share your birthday with Hayley Atwell (April 5, 1982, London), who is a famous actress. She began her career in 2005 with TV serial Whatever Love Means.
She has later done more serials, including Mansfield Park, Fear of Fanny and The Line of Beauty.
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Astro Turf
ARIES: Be particularly wary if dealing with property matters. Don't let dogmatism close your mind to varied possibilities. If an old friend needs your support, get together and listen to his or her problem.
Tarot message: Do not expect too much from others. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 52. TAURUS: Hold expensive plans in check for the time being. An optimistic and compassionate turn of mind is likely. Spiritual issues and quests can lead to some deep thinking. Tarot message: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far. Lucky colour: Sea-green. Magic number: 26. GEMINI: You will have some difficulty in controlling your emotions. Agreements that have been dragging on for some time can be successfully negotiated. Tarot message: Take one step at a time and avoid being over-anxious. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 55. CANCER: Plug away steadily in the background. This is not the time for grabbing centrestage. Consider your course of action seriously before jumping into anything new. Tarot message: Make compromises outside and come to terms within yourself. Lucky colour: Golden. Magic number: 46. LEO: Improvements will continue in the financial picture. Business matters are fairly well under control. Overstrain can effect health. Your moods can be up and down all day. A former friend can turn up on your doorstep. Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health. Lucky colour: Jade. Magic number: 29. VIRGO: No need to make any important move today. Conditions are too weak at the moment to contemplate fresh operations. You should not be too critical of co-workers. Children can cause worry. Tarot message: Don't reveal your plan of action to anyone. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 27.
LIBRA: The affairs of a close companion are favoured today. Aim at teamwork. An accident can occur if you don't keep your mind on the job. Be especially careful when using electrical appliances. Tarot message: Prevent trouble
by taking timely action. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 35. SCORPIO: Do not give into lethargy. Emotional people can change their mind. Take the financial picture seriously. Earnings can be increased if you try. Deception from opposite sex is on the cards. Tarot message: Don't reveal your plans to your competitors. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 27. SAGITTARIUS: An early morning disturbance can get you up a lot sooner than usual, which will give you a chance to catch up with some housework. Your energy level will be soaring. Tarot message: You will receive a useful tip at the stock exchange. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 44. CAPRICORN: The day is going to be rather slow; plan ahead. Take advantage of other people's experience. Family will be much better company than friends this evening. Focus on meditation or yoga. Tarot message: Try to accomplish long-term tasks. Lucky colour: Bottle-green. Magic number: 32. AQUARIUS: A financial matter that has been delayed should move forward now. Social activities that are offered will not be worth attending. There should be no special problems to deal with at home. Tarot message: Don't take hasty decisions. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 41. PISCES: This day will be marked only for lack of activity. However, business will tick over smoothly enough. You will finally feel that your self-esteem is rising. Tarot message: Lack of confidence or caution can leave you in losses. Lucky colour: Forest-green. Magic number: 43.
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Ameesha Patel's maiden production Desi Magic will release in August 2014. She talks about her dream venture.
Every Punjabi, whether or not it delivers, at least boasts of bringing in something new to the screen each time - a cliché that will also be registered with the Oscar library! Now if you look at the much-talked about Punjabi film Honour Killing, Rubba Maaf Kareen, it has brought in two new things - one, for the first time, a Punjabi film brings in lip lock scenes and two, once again for the first time, it shows a bikini-clad woman! Even though for both the daring tasks they have used a 'firang' character, Linda, who plays Tom Alter's daughter, the film has pushed the envelope and look where!
Kritika Kamra has always wanted to do 'everything'. Strong in academics, she chose to study fashion at NIFT. Picked to act on small screen right outside her college, Kritika followed where work took her - to Mumbai and chose to stay! With parents based in MP, Kritika, who spent a major part of her growing up years in DPS, New Delhi, calls Mumbai her home now.
Chidiya Ghar is the story of a fun-loving family. Mayuri, played by Debina Bonnerjee, suggested to the creative team to change her avatar in the series in a bid to add an element of fun. After mutual discussions, it was decided to westernise Debina's look in the series, which would offer a fresh appeal to her character.
Charity on birthday: Donate utensils to the needy or at any religious place today.