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Magic of words
“One of the reasons for writer’s block is when you try and push the material into a fixed format. It is like forcing a river in a particular direction. Something I did when I started with subject matter on my upcoming book on Guru Nanak,” she states the not-so-apparent. “I had a fixed idea about where my material was going to be and that was one of the problems I faced. Once I surrendered to the material, it fell in place.” Here on an invitation by Chandigarh Literary Society, the author and playwright shares a few thoughts on her upcoming book The Singing Guru—Legends of Guru Nanak. What was originally intended to be a collection of short stories became a long narrative. That was the call of the subject matter!
Historical take
The book on the legends of Guru Nanak re-imagines Nanak’s life and travels, weaving together facts, legends, fantastic folktales, myths and some of his most beautiful songs. The long narrative is interwoven with smaller stories linked together and are told from the point of view of the central character, Mardana. Historically, Mardana was Guru Nanak’s musical accompanist and travelling companion on their many journeys. “It is Guru Nanak as seen through the eyes of a human person, which is Mardana…once I realised that Mardana was going to be the central character, it became easy. It’s been a year-and-a-half since I’ve been working on the book.” Factual details are intermingled with fantasy to produce a symbolic portrait where humour and imagination underlie a profound spiritual narrative. The 65,000-word-long work interlinks history and narrative in an unquantifiable format. “I have used very short Janam Sakhis…these legends, fanstasy, mythology all point to some very important truths. Myth is one of the highest forms of truth - it makes these truths accessible to us. I have mixed all these elements.” She adds, “We all know that Guru Nanak founded Kartarpur, I have extended that fact to weave…all historical facts have been weaved to make one seamless whole. They are inextricably linked.”
Hands full
Born and raised in India, the current citizen of United States divides her time equally between the Himalayas and San Diego, California. As for her several plays that are being produced now, she laughs, “Plays and novels are like your children. One must leave them on their own; detach yourself from them and hope that they do well.” Apart from the five to six volumes that she plans to continue with after The Singing Guru. “I am working on a book, which is a fantasy for children of all ages titled Malini In Whirlwood. And a novel that is about a psychiatrist who returns from America and practices in India.” Like we said, it is hard to imagine a writer’s block! manpriya@tribunemail.com
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Playing for the house
Just in case the Bigg Boss 5 contestant still appears to be living in the shadows of the house she exit two seasons ago, she says “I’m over it. I’m long over the trauma of having been a contestant there. I’m mentally strong. But everybody saw the channel’s version and I needed to come out with my side of the story. I’m setting a lot of records straight in the song.” Well, once again, just in case, it appeared she’d be either taking names or calling names. “I’m way too mature to take potshots or call names.
It is only a matter of switching back to the house and the reality show. “What got to me the most was the fakeness of it all. Everybody is picking up fights or overacting most of the time because they want to be a part of the 45 minutes of footage…this fetches them one weeks of more salary.” Then there is a long-forgotten Bollywood film Dil Ka Rishta that released a decade back. “I don’t want to talk about the film. I want to talk about only my upcoming projects.” Coming up is The Pooja Misrra Show, the details of which she keeps to herself. “I’m not divulging anything at the moment. But it will be telecast with one of the leading channels.” Till her television stint resumes, there is also an upcoming film titled Hum Baja Bajaa Denge. “I play the role of an undercover cop and also have an item number in the climax…then there’s an upcoming men’s clothing collection in collaboration with a leading label, there are also offers from Punjabi films and some films Down South.” As for Bigg Boss, “Please do not think it is a cakewalk.” It hasn’t been for her. Even two years later!
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Nothing ghaint about this one
Jasmine Singh
What's in a name! If only we had Shakespeare around, he would be amazed to know the answer. There is just about nothing in a name, and you would easily come to this conclusion when you come out after seeing a film called Myself Ghaint. Now, had the film's name been Myself Not Ghaint, Myself Stupid or Myself Useless or even Myself Super Ghaint…..it would still not do any good for the film. Akashdeep S Batth directs Myself Ghaint, his debut Punjabi film with a relatively new star cast, except for Gaurav Kakar, Dolly Sidhu, Maninder Velly, Aditi Govitrikar, Brownie Prashar and Deepak Sharma. Akashdeep, who is the youngest Punjabi film director (22-years-old), has also written the story and screenplay of the film. Now this is a different story that we didn't find either of the two things there, no story no plot! Myself Ghaint is a story of mistaken identity, but it was one big mistake to make the film. The film will not tickle any funny bone. It might just do some good to the lacrimal glands but! The film comes across as some disjointed parts of cardboard that comes free with a pack of Rasna! If you have all the time in the world, then you can dedicate some in understanding the film. Akashdeep is young, and he could have done much better than what he has delivered. Like for instance, the lead actress Simran (Dolly Sidhu) comes from a filthy rich family and is still going to work riding a scooty! At least, the director could have given her a Nano or a chauffer-driven car. The dialogues in Myself Ghaint are sad and sometimes lashed with double meaning punches. Apart from Ladakh, where a song is shot, all the locations where the film is shot look below average. More than once, the characters point towards the futility of their existence. Now, could the director explain which villain or bad guy sits in a godown with a mukat on his head! Grow up! Coming to the star cast, Gaurav Kakar is the hero of the film. He does whatever is given to him in an okay manner. Yes, had the director not given him useless shaiyari to spew every two minutes, it would have been a huge favour on the audience. Rest, you wouldn't want to know much about anyone. A complete waste in the film is Aditi Govitrikar. Remember this model? Only she 'herself' can answer what lured her to do the film. The music of the film is okay, in fact you hardly notice it is since you are thinking about one thing-that the name should be changed to Myself 'Stupid'. The one brownie point for Akashdeep is for making the effort!
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It pays to dream
Hawaa Hawaai
Motivating theme
I like the film very much and that is purely because of the message that there is to the film. It motivates us to dream, aspire and achieve and is definitely the kind of film that each and every one of us will be able to relate to. Nandita Mehta, student Inspiring tale
It's a nice film and more importantly, a brave attempt at exploring the lives of the so-called ordinary and underprivileged people. I like the way the makers have created a story that entertains as much as it inspires. Yashvi Baria, student Positive path
It's a lovely film and I think each one of us must watch it. This film has stirred me emotionally and what I like the most about it is the plot that details on the triumph-over-struggle, which strikes an instant connection with the audience. Saiyam Sharma, student Myself Ghaint
Directed and produced by Akashdeep Singh Batth and businessman, Gagandeep Singh, Myself Ghaint is a Punjabi comedy film. The film features Gaurav Kakkar and Dolly Sidhu playing the lead roles, Maninder Velly of Mausam fame and RJ Pak Pak Deepak. Flop show
I did not like the film at all. It's a sheer waste of time and money and I left the movie half way, so one can well imagine how bad it would possibly be. Neha Gupta, freelance photographer Bad choice
This film gave me a headache. It has no story, no plot, and absolutely nothing that works for it. It's not the kind of film that one would want to watch in the name of Punjabi comedy. Diksha Sharma, student — As told to Amarjot Kaur
Celebrate motherhood
Make this Mother's Day the most memorable one for your mother at The Lalit Chandigarh. The Lalit offers a lavish multi-cuisine Mother's Day brunch with live stations. A delectable display of brunch favourites with an emphasis on home style cooking and live music is sure to impress your mom. The mothers enjoy a 50 per cent discount on this special day on a table of four. The mothers can also get lucky and win gift vouchers to Rejuve-The Spa. Special Mother's Day themed cake is just the perfect gift for your mother. Her you can choose from a range of cakes on offer. — TNS
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Priyanka happy in her skin
Of competition & style
If I wasn't doing good work, I'd be worried about it. But never in my career have I had that moment to think 'Oh she's doing better work,' or 'I don't have the opportunities that she has.' I'm doing incredible work, I have phenomenal films and I'm doing multi-faceted things. I don't have the time or interest in other people's lives. I'm so busy with my own. From being slammed for your dressing sense to being regarded as a global fashion icon, you've come a long way. I was a kid, just 17, when I became the Miss World. I was expected to know everything about style, fashion and runways. Who knows that at 17? From wearing school uniforms, I was suddenly on a world platform. It took me time. Of course, the media expects a celebrity to be well turned out irrespective of the circumstance you may be in. I didn't know international designers or brands like Gucci or Guess when I came to Mumbai. I was a track pants and jeans kind of girl. Suddenly I was in gowns and sarees. I discovered what style is in the past four to five years. Harsh and judgmental industry
We are and I'm including myself in it though I try not to be judgmental. People living in glass houses shouldn't throw stones at others. We tend to do that in this business. People need to stop judging. Live and let live. Celebrate beauty and happiness. What makes you a good person is the fact that you can be happy for someone else. It shows that you are content with your life. No problem with KJo
We put our problems to rest more than a year ago. Our issues were petty and we both understood that. And it was great to be back on Koffee With Karan especially because Deepika's (Padukone) a friend. It's fun to be on a show, which puts you under a microscope and stresses you out. All in the family
(Laughs) Hmmm… the Chopra clan is all over Bollywood! When I started out I was 18, at least these girls are a little older. I've told them, 'do whatever you want; no one will mess with you'. I'm that protective wall for them. Proud of Pareeniti Chopra
I'm proud of her. She has tremendous talent. I just hope her choice of films is good. She's a smart girl. I hope she can be the actress she wants to be.
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Million dollar music
Walt Disney Records will release the original motion picture soundtrack for Disney's Million Dollar Arm digitally on May 13 and physically on May 19. The film will be released in the US on May 16. Featuring music composed and performed by two-time Academy Award-winning composer A R Rahman, the soundtrack includes collaborations with Australian hip-hop artiste Iggy Azalea, Grammy-nominated rapper Wale and Scottish singer-songwriter KT Tunstall. Described by Variety as a jubilant wall-to-wall song score, Rahman has created a powerful and driving sound that blends classic Indian styles and instruments with rap, rock and electronica delivering a celebratory soundscape to America's favourite sport.
"I'm excited to share with music fans some unusual collaborations with Iggy Azalea, Wale, and KT Tunstall on the music in Million Dollar Arm," said Academy Award-winning composer A. R. Rahman. "The soundtrack we created together truly captures the beautiful culture and energy behind the film-reminding us all how important it is to be open to new possibilities in life. The word Disney always brings a smile to me. I hope this soundtrack and movie stay blessed in many ways." A true artist who has redefined contemporary Indian music, Rahman is an icon in the world of cinematic scoring. Hailed by TIME magazine as the Mozart of Madras, Rahman has helped redefine contemporary Indian music. He has sold more than 150 million albums comprising of music from more than 100 film soundtracks and albums across over half a dozen languages, including landmark scores such as Roja, Bombay, Dil Se, Taal, Lagaan, Vandemataram and more recently, Jodhaa Akbar, Delhi 6, Slumdog Millionaire, 127 Hours, Couples Retreat and People Like Us to name a few. Overall, Rahman has won two Academy Awards, two Grammys, a Golden Globe and a BAFTA.
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Time for revenge
From the Kapoor clan
After Karisma, Kareena and Ranbir, it's now Raj Kapoor's daughter Reema Jain's son Armaan who is all set to make his debut in Bollywood with Lekar Hum Deewana Dil. The first trailer of the movie shows the journey of two friends played by Armaan Jain and Deeksha Seth, who decide to get married and then how their life changes post marriage. The movie is focused on youngsters and the consequences they have to face due to hasty decisions. While AR Rahman has composed the music, Imtiaz Ali's brother Arif Ali makes his directorial debut with the film. Lekar Hum Deewana Dil, which has been produced by Armaan's brother-in-law Saif Ali Khan, Dinesh Vijan and Sunil Lulla, releases on July 4.
Together once more
Rumour has it that Katrina Kaif might star opposite Salman Khan in director Kabir Khan's next film. The two were last seen in Kabir's last film Ek Tha Tiger.
Sad ending
If the latest rumours are anything to go by, Vidyut Jammwal and Mona Singh's on-off relationship has finally come to an end.
Serial dater
Vir Das, who was last seen in Revolver Rani, is all set to play a serial dater in upcoming film Amit Sahni Ki List. The 34-year-old actor has as many as six films lined up in the next 15 months.
The wait is not over
The release of Rajinikanth - starrer Kochadaiiyaan has been pushed to May 23, due to technical issues.
A big debut
Oscar winning sound engineer Resul Pookutty, who is all set to make his debut as a director, has apparently approached Amitabh Bachchan for his first film. He is waiting for his confirmation.
Malaika to dance for Arbaaz
After roping in Saif Ali Khan for a cameo in his Sonam Kapoor-starrer Dolly Ki Doli, the buzz is that Arbaaz Khan now wants wife Malaika Arora Khan to do a dance number in the film. The song will be composed by Sajid-Wajid.
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Sidharth, Shraddha take the plunge
While Shraddha Kapoor is a trained diver in real life, Sidharth Malhotra is a die-hard water baby and looks forward to becoming a certified scuba diver soon. On hearing that he would be required to go underwater with Shraddha in Mauritius for the Galliyan song from Ek Villain, he took rigorous lessons in Mumbai before 'taking the plunge'.
So engrossed did the young stars get that they remained underwater for nearly seven hours and took just a few breaks. It took that long before director Mohit Suri decided that he was satisfied with the shot. Once the exhausted actors surfaced, they called it a day! Incidentally, no oxygen cylinders were connected to them. They were, instead, followed by French divers with oxygen supplies. The underwater scene has turned into a stunning romantic moment in the Galliyan track, which releases this week. Here's welcoming B-town's newest aquatic creatures!
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Spring in step
Dressed in a traditional navaari sari and jewellery, Roopal wowed everyone on the sets with her flawless moves. To make her look perfect and authentic, she even rehearsed prior to the shoot to get all the nuances of a Lavani correct. Dance being Roopal's forte, it didn't take her much time to pick up the steps and put up an amazing performance at the shoot. An excited Roopal says "I was so thrilled when I heard that I am supposed to perform a special Lavani act for the Mahasangam special episodes as I haven't attempted anything like this before. Being a folk song, it required additional preparations to get the apt body language as well as expressions and I had to put in extra efforts to get both these aspects right. Having a background in dance helped me pick up steps quickly. I love dancing and doing a Lavani was a fabulous opportunity for me to learn a new dance form."
Delhi calling
Life OK's Tumhari Pakhi is all set to go to Delhi. With veteran actress Anita Raj in the cast now, the crew is currently shooting in the capital, at Qutab Minar and Red Fort, for her entry sequences. The lead actors Iqbal Khan and Shraddha Arya will also shoot in Chandni Chowk soon.
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Crime & punishment
Gear up for a thrilling ride this weekend as Encounter showcases the story of undisputed don Mahesh Shetty. The action-packed episode will feature the versatile actor Mahesh Shetty and Kinshuk Mahajan in their best roles for the viewers. The local hafta collector from Sion, Mahesh Shetty's friendship with gang member Babu Rode turned sour when the latter killed his leader. This treachery by Babu made Mahesh form his own gang and thus began a decade-long rivalry between them. A year of hardwork and classic police investigation by inspector Vinod More leads to his encounter.
Commenting on the experience Mahesh Shetty said, "It was a great experience shooting for Encounter. I am essaying the role of a gangster named Mahesh Murthy, who is known as the master of disguise. Due to this quality of his, I got the chance to do many characters in just one role. The director is amazing, I have seen his work in the movie Bindi bazar Inc and he is really good. Working with Kinshuk was fun and I didn't feel it's my first time with him."
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Playing the host
Surbhi Jyoti, aka Sanam in Zee TV's Qubool Hai, will now join Meiyang Chang to host a show. She will be co-host of Zing TV's upcoming show Pyaar Tune Kya Kiya that will showcase love stories with a twist. Producer Vikas Gupta, who has made hit shows Gumrah, Yeh Hai Aashiqui and Webbed, brings yet another concept with this show.
Busy mom!
Neelu Vaghela aka Bhabho of Diya Aur Baati Hum is a mother of two kids in real life. Although she hardly gets enough time to spend with her kids due to her television shoots, she tries to take out time for them regularly and even have discussions on various topics. "We plan out annual holidays together, which is the only time I get to spend properly with my kids," says the busy mom.
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Epic proportions
Veteran writer Salim Khan, who is the creative consultant on Star Plus' Mahabharat, understands the epic and its characters better than anyone else in the entertainment business. A self-confessed admirer of the Mahabharat, the 78-year-old reveals that he learnt the art of giving that 'twist to the tale' from this ancient piece of literature. In a candid chat, he tells us why he feels his son, Salman Khan, is like the warrior Karan (from the epic).
What ideas have you taken from the Mahabharat? I've read the Mahabharat several times since I was young… not as a religious book, but for knowledge and I realised that in this epic, a lot of small twists have a big impact later —be it Bhishma's pledge or Yudhisthir announcing the death of Ashwatthama (where he doesn't mention that it was Ashwatthama the elephant and not Dronacharya's son by the same name). In many of my stories, I used similar twists that have a huge impact later; for instance, the coin in Sholay (1975). Why do you say Salman is like Karan's character? Just like Karan, Salman has a complex character. He is fighting from the wrong side…he is silent and has inner conflicts to battle. In fact, during the making of Karan Arjun (1995), Salman had a choice to play either Karan or Arjun. He asked me and I said Karan because Arjun might be a principled, disciplined man, but he doesn't have the shades that Karan does. Is it true that you are working for free? I am a consulting writer for the TV show Mahabharat. The show's producer, Siddharth Kumar Tewary offered me a good price, but I am not taking any money as I had firm faith in Siddharth and the channel. I've earned a lot of money in my life and I want to give back to society now. A lot of people from the industry come to me, saying that they are unable to write the climax of their films, so I guide them. |
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Astro Turf
ARIES: Chances are high for meeting a good companion. Couples can spend a delightful time in each other's company, appreciating all the strengths of the relationship. Tarot message: If you are tempted to travel overseas, don't waste money by financing the trip yourself.
Lucky colour: Sea-green. Magic number: 27.
TAURUS: Early hours are definitely the best. If you are working, try to get special favour by 11.00 am. A bubbly mood relieves the heaviness of pending duties and responsibilities. Tarot message: Empty promises are certain, therefore try to put your terms and conditions in writing. Lucky colour: Rust. Magic number: 63. GEMINI: Put on your thinking cap. Learning processes and communication endeavours are highlighted. Changes made today will certainly appear to
be for the best. Tarot message: Be honest to your desires. Lucky colour: Ebony.
Magic number: 27. CANCER: You will be free to operate as you feel is right. Relatives will do all they can to help. Speculation in property is not favoured. Legal matters can encounter red-tape.
Tarot message: Use common sense in day-to-day affairs. Lucky colour: Black.
Magic number: 57. LEO: The atmosphere will not be conducive to achieving good results. Coming to angry words over personal differences will only be regretted. A run-in with an aggressive character can spoil the day. Tarot message: Don't allow your confidence to be dented.
Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 56. VIRGO: The pendulum of luck will not stop today. Health-wise, rest is needed otherwise fatigue will produce pessimism. Leave stress, worries and cares behind;
just enjoy yourself. Tarot message: A positive and caring attitude heals old wounds.
Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 51.
LIBRA: The Knight of Wands promises you a high profile day. Expect to be on the receiving end of kindness and generosity from those who genuinely appreciate you. Tarot message: If you play your cards right, you'll avert
future difficulties. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 52. SCORPIO: Your card 'The Fool' reveals deception, delays and unhealthy conditions in your profession. Keep your wits
and you will come out for the better in a deal. Tarot message: Push to succeed and your efforts will pay off.
Lucky colour: Forest-green. Magic number: 50. SAGITTARIUS: You may have to check your plans. Improve your health by paying more attention to diet. Today you should be able to surprise the boss by showing the adaptable side of your nature.
Tarot message: Draw on your inner energies. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 27. CAPRICORN: Today money can come from unexpected sources. Parents will find that this is a good time for dealing with youngsters. Crazy suggestions for entertainment can intrigue.
Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Peach.
Magic number: 29. AQUARIUS: Deal with all outstanding communication as certain people are sure to be waiting to hear from you. Detachment does not mean indifference. An early warning of a health problem is a blessing in disguise. Tarot message: Follow your own path. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 64. PISCES: Today fear of loss of reputation or slander can grip you. Be courageous about a new investment opportunity. Housewives will develop interest in social activities.
Tarot message: Your efforts will gain momentum. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 48.
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The Year Ahead
If your birthday is May 10...
This will not be a good year to implement ambitious plans or expand your business. If you are earning through a fixed and steady income, you are likely to do fine. However, if you earn through commissions, sales or investments, your earnings will be poor. So, it will be vital for you to limit your expenditure and prioritise your spending. This is a period ripe with opportunity for attracting others, for turning on the charm and for receiving positive feedback from partners or love interests. You will always be aware of the emotional undercurrents within the family. You have an outstanding ability to see and to understand how people relate to each other. Travel abroad is also likely. Positive colours: Golden, Red, Brown. Select days: Sunday, Monday. Favourable numbers: 1, 4, 2, 7. Gems recommended: Yellow Sapphire, Red Coral. Charity on birthday: Donate utensils to the needy or at any religious place today.
You share your birthday with actress Hrishitaa Bhatt (May 10, 1981), who debuted in films Asoka opposite Shahrukh Khan. She got acclaim for her roles in films like Ab Tak Chhappan and Jigyaasa. According to her horoscope, the number 10 will make her excel in this field.
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A wide repertoire of literary pursuits suggests anything but a writer’s block. Pretty much! Her several plays, prose and novels include classics from mystic India in Ganesha Goes To Lunch to Rumi’s Tales from The Silk Road. Moving on to a series of thematically linked love poems titled As A Fountain In A Garden or the critically acknowledged full length plays Hamlet’s Father, Kepler Dreams, among others. Seems like there have been no writer’s block ever for US-based author Kamla K Kapur!
She’s out with a single dedicated to all the people who ensured she had a longer innings at a reality show, “which I think has been the most difficult for me than any other contestant in any of the seasons.” At times controversial and at times contradictory, VJ, actor, designer and lately a singer, Pooja Misrra, has always had to set a lot of records straight.
I have not done any of that in my song. In fact, I have just dedicated it to all my fans and well-wishers who voted for me,” she shares of her recent track Spare Me. “It is a peppy, catchy number. I’d call it a club song on the lines of hip hop genre.” She adds, “It was such a liberating experience for me because all the emotions were bottled up inside me. The single is just a reaction to all the negativity that was around me.” 
Myself Ghaint
Directed by Amole Gupte and produced by Fox Star Studios, the film, Hawaa Hawaai features Partho Gupte and Saqib Saleem. The film is a commercial entertainer, and a tribute to people who dare to dream. Saqib Saleem plays the role of a skating coach in the film.
Priyanka Chopra has been around for a while. She has transformed in the last decade and is an acclaimed actor to reckon with, a singer, a sex goddess, and a fashion icon. She is always pushing the envelope with her versatility. She talks about sustaining herself in the industry, her family members in Bollywood and more.
Actress Yami Gautam has been signed opposite Varun Dhawan in director Sriram Raghavan's next film which is going to be a revenge drama.
Roopal Tyagi's passion for dance came to the fore recently when she performed a Lavani dance for her show Sapne Suhane Ladakpan Ke. It was part of a five-day long Mahasangam with Zee TV's other show Ek Muthi Aasmaan.