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On a sound note
In one's attempt to understand dance music, which struggles to define itself on the parameters of several sub-genres ranging from electronic, techno to house music, there is more than just its essence that's lost. In conversation with Hamza, the owner of Wind Horse Records, the first house music label of India, who recently launched his album, Gitano (the Spanish word for gypsy), we stand acquainted with several facets of commercial and underground dance music. While the album was released in February this year, Hamza has been touring the country only to culminate his promotional journey in Chandigarh, where he will perform at F Bar with Rajasthani folk artists, Jasu Khan and Latif Khan of Mangar community, on Wednesday.
Business of music While his label Wind Horse Records was established in 2009, Hamza only graduated in Economics at Boston, US, to become an investment banker, until he progressed to the final year wherein as part of a student exchange programme he left for Paris. There, Hamza was acquainted with a distant family friend, Neils Lan Doky, a jazz pianist. His influence was significant, for Doky was the one who fanned Hamza's g passion for music. "Neils had played for the Queen of Denmark and he was not a freelance musician. He was extraordinary and when a man like him asks you to settle for music, it's not merely a compliment but serious business," says Hamza, who later went to New York to study Music Business. The rest is, as they say, history. Tours & travel It is impossible to imagine more complete fusion with nature, universal world music and house beats than that of the gypsy. Perhaps that is why Hamza, who has travelled and lived around in three different continents, including South Asia, Europe and North America, came up with a music album that is seasoned with the flavour of his travels. Titled Gitano, Hamza explains that the album is a fusion of world music, which draws much influence from the roots of regional folk music of the cities and places that he has visited. "While I am savvy with my console and house music in particular, I like to fabricate the sound of my music with the tribal folk music," says Hamza. Commercially speaking Hamza, who draws influence from several funk music bands like Hilight Tribe, makes no pretence while expressing his disdain for commercial music, which he believes is completely formula-driven. "Most of the electronic dance music or commercial music that we get to hear today is formatted on a typical formula that builds up on a harsh bass line and is later structured with the vocals. Personally, I am not interested in that kind of music," he says. amarjot@tribunemail.com (To perform at F-Bar, Chandigarh, on Wednesday from 11pm to 1 am. Couple entry will be free till 10.30 pm)
Music matters “Disco music that started in the 70s was a four on the floor beat count and it was driven by live band performances. It was only when Frankie Knuckles, an American musician, introduced the electronic drum pad to discos in the early 90s that the dance music culture actually began. Later, when musicians discovered the sound of this synthesised drum pad, they started jamming at warehouses, where the underground music scene began. That was called the house music, as it also came from the warehouses."
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Method in madness!
Extraordinary talent in ordinary people makes for a risk-free reality show formula. The one where everybody gets to play themselves; no retakes, hardly any script, no dialogues to rehearse or briefs to follow. Precisely some of the things television actor Mona Singh is looking forward to in the fifth season of Sony Entertainment's show Entertainment Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega. As a hostess, there's a lot to contribute.
"The show is coming after two years and I am really looking forward to it. The judges are the same, but we have just finished shooting some of the episodes and they are all looking great. When the channel called me up with the offer, I was more than willing to be a part of it, especially because I get to be myself." An offer hard to get in the fiction-driven television industry! "I am not role playing at all, which was so refreshing. I am just being myself and people will get to see the real me. The only brief given to us was to be as mad as possible," she laughs. Different take As for the show, the audience will get to see acts ranging from heart-stopping bike gymnastics to an international act straight from France. Moving on, a fearless group of Khalsa girls perform death-defying stunts, enough to make the heart skip a beat. In one of the episodes, a father throws a knife at his daughter while there are also some unbelievable acts by exceptional three-year-old children and specially-abled people. When acting itself is a dream, the concept of dream role fades into oblivion. 'I don't have a dream role as such. Anything which is challenging enough and pulls me out of my comfort zone becomes a dream role. I have loved the repertoire or roles I have got to play so far, but I still believe in looking forward." Coming up is a significant role in a consequential film. "I have just finished shooting for a film titled Z Plus. In the film, I play the only protagonist." Punjabi turf As a Maharashtrian girl from a Sikh family, it is only a matter of right script for her to step into the mustard fields! In fact, her absence up till now comes as a surprise. "In fact, being a sardarni it is my father's dream to see me act in a Punjabi film. He would love to see me play a full-on Punjabi girl, dressed in a salwar kameez. There have been a couple of offers too, but I am just waiting for the right one. Err…but what about the language. She laughs, "Main badi changi Punjabi bol sakdi haan." Are the regional industry folks listening? manpriya@tribunemail.com (Every Monday to Thursday from 9 pm onwards)
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Laser power
Say goodbye to ugly
scars with advanced fractional laser!
Dr Sukhdeep Kaur Scar scare The natural ageing process, combined with sun damage, stress and pollution destroys collagen, the main protein of connective tissue that keeps the skin plump and wrinkle free. Laser uses beams of light energy to bore tiny holes in the skin, which works to put the body natural collagen. production on fast forward resulting in a soft, smooth skin! Work process Carbon dioxide fractional laser causes pixel like or tiny dot like damage to the treated areas, leaving most of the surrounding skin intact. New collagen is produced via injury to the dermis resulting in remodelling, resurfacing and repair of the skin. Hence the scars or depressions are filled up resulting in a smooth, even skin tone. Fractional laser is a skin tightening and skin rejuvenation treatment in one. Hence, photo facials for glow and anti-aging are in vogue. You will have a smoother, healthier, younger looking skin. Results are seen soon after and continue to improve throughout coming months. Recovery time is short as minimal redness or swelling occurs which lasts for only a few days. Uses of fractional laser Acne/pimple scar Surgery/stitch scars Burn, chickenpox scars Open pores/uneven skin Stretch marks Deep wrinkles, ageing lines Face and neck tightening Skin lightening, glow Treatment protocol Laser scans the skin of the patient and tells us the skin type and moisture content. A local anaesthesia cream is applied 30 minutes before the laser to minimise the pain. Laser session takes 30 minutes followed by sunscreen application. Three sessions at four weeks interval are essential. Post treatment After a single session the skin visibly improves skin tone, texture and tightening of the skin. Immediately after laser redness, burning can be felt which is minimised by applying cold compresses. The skin is reformed and repaired and dead skin sheds off. Now you can flaunt a flawless skin with fractional laser! (Dr Kaur is a Chandigarh-based dermatologist) |
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Familiar cut
As expected, there is tilla, sequin, stone work, a lot of machine embroidery, and some hand embroidery on fabrics ranging from chiffon, georgette and silk in Priyanka Singh's collection at her newly launched studio in Chandigarh. But taking the well-trodden path is not the issue we are bothered about. In fact, there is nothing wrong with playing safe with standard fabrics and by and large using the same embellishments. Priyanka does exactly that but even then manages to score just about average with her designs.
She has tried to experiment with silhouettes, a brocade yoke is added to phulkari kalidar suit or different coloured kalis are stitched together but the end product is not very enticing. There are silk suits put on display in various colours but she hasn't been able to get the most basic embroidery right. You can spot the tag, Priyanka Singh, hanging from every creation, but the suit pieces are something you find at every retail shop. What she claims is designer wear by her, is merely some embroidered fabric stitched as suits. A saving grace is the silk suits with embroidery all over, it's intricate and beautiful. Her pricing is affordable, as compared to other designer stores in the city.
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Face of Punjab
Apang Sewa Sanstha, a registered charitable society for the welfare of the under-privileged and deprived children is organising an event titled Mutiar Punjab Di Te Gabroo Punjab Da 2014, which shall be produced in the form of talent hunting musical extravaganza. Poonam Sood and Bawa Verma will be judging the contestants.
Chandigarh and ten other major cities of Punjab are listed for the audition of Punjabi Mutiar Te Punjabi Gabroo 2014. One week training for grooming the selected candidates shall be given by celebrities. Grand finale for crowning the Punjabi Mutair and Punjabi Gabroo 2014 will take place at Jalandhar. — TNS
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Hush-hush affair
Parvesh Rana I am a 27-year-old married woman. I have a strong feeling that my husband is seeing someone in his office. I have overheard him talking on the phone in a hushed voice. Do you think I should confront him directly? Manisha, Chandigarh I will not suggest you to confront him directly because there might be nothing. At the same time, if you have a doubt then you should check it as well. If you can find out something on your own without letting him know about it that would be okay. Otherwise hang on for a while and see how things move. I am an 18- year-old guy and I love riding bikes, but my brother-in-law is dead against this. He often tells my parents about it which leads to a rift back home. What should I do? Amit Prashar, Mohali I think you should talk to your brother-in-law, ask him why he is against this. Be polite in your conversation and let him say what he wants to. Thereafter talk to your folks and reason out something. You have to talk very patiently with everyone involved in this. Just don't walk away by saying it's my life! (Rana is a Bollywood actor and television anchor) |
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Sunny excited about Mastizade
Actress Sunny Leone's last film Ragini MMS 2 has given her good momentum and now she is looking forward to her next release Mastizaade which she believes will be her biggest film till date. The upcoming film which is being termed as a sex-comedy is the first directorial effort of Milap Zaveri who has the script of several hit films to his credit. It is being produced by Pritish Nandy Communications. Sunny says, "It's been fun for me to join the crew of Mastizaade. We want this project to be my biggest movie to date." Sunny will be playing a character called Laila Lele. She adds, "I am super happy about my character Laila Lele. Laila Lele' is racy, sexy and sharp. I hope my fans are ready for me and the cast to make them laugh throughout this film." The film is going to floors in August. |
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Sidharth surprises his mom
Sidharth Malhotra's mom is surprised after watching him in the teaser of Mohit Suri's upcoming film, Ek Villain with Aashiqui 2 girl, Shraddha
Kapoor. As far as the personality of Sidharth Malhotra goes, the young actor is extremely shy, down to earth and reserved.
And the teaser of Ek Villain shows him exactly the opposite of what he is in real life. After watching the teaser, the young actor's mom was in for a surprise. It was for the first time that she had seen this side of him. The young actor, who made his debut with Student of the Year, was seen in Hasee Toh Phasee next and in both the films, his romantic, lover boy image was well appreciated. However, the teaser of Ek Villain has showcased Sidharth Malhotra.in an all new avatar. For the first time, he will be seen playing a grungy, dark and intense role. Sidharth has transformed himself completely for this role. He spent a lot of time in the gym and pumped iron. When contacted, Sidharth shared, "I am essaying a very different role in Ek Villain. It is unlike what I have done previously. The teaser trailer has received positive feedback from all quarters and it is overwhelming. I am so happy that my mom is proud of me."
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A casual attitude
Yaami Gautam is a pretty girl with a fit body. She looks good on and off the screen and recently grabbed eyeballs in a sexy black number. She shares some style, beauty, and fashion tips.
Cool casuals Lately, I have been digging palazzo pants. When you team it up with a cool t-shirt and shrug, it can make you look very stylish. I even like long skirts and monochrome dresses, even those with floral prints. However, jeans-and-shirt is my all-time favourite. Comfort matters On a work-free day, you are mostly likely to find me in a night suit (laughs). On a more serious note, I would like to be dressed in a casual maxi dress or a pair of shorts with tank tops. Black is beautiful While dressing up for parties, I choose my outfits and accessories depending on what kind of an event it is. For an awards function, I would pick a formal to semi-formal outfit that exudes an Indo-Western look. But if it is a formal do, I would probably opt for a dress. Or, a little black dress (LBD). It can never fail you. Shine on I swear by the natural look. I have sensitive skin and prefer to keep the use of cosmetics to the minimum. However, since make-up is an intrinsic part of an actor's life, I ensure that I use only the best products. Before you hit the bed, I always take the make-up off and slap on some moisturiser.
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Swift decision
Country star Taylor Swift has been getting fashion advice from Lena Dunham and says she has great taste when it comes to style blogs and stores.
The 24-year-old I Knew You Were Trouble singer, who walked the ramp at the annual Victoria's Secret fashion show last year, has been picking up style tips from the Girls creator.
"For fashion inspiration Lena Dunham always has great websites and shops at great stores. She always tells me her newest obsession, whether it is a new website, a blog or a store, she's really good with that stuff. And Zooey Deschanel is one of the most fashionable people I know," Swift said. The singer is influenced by styles of past decades from the 50s and 60s through to the 90s and likes feminine clothing and classic pieces. "I like to wear pearl earrings, I like red lips. I figure if I stick to classics I won't have as many cringe-worthy moments looking back 25 years from now," she said. — PTI
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Mahesh Bhatt plays a Buddhist monk
Mahesh Bhatt, who is all set to make his acting debut with upcoming film Siddharth, has started shooting for it in
Manali. The 64-year-old director shared a picture of him from the sets on Twitter and said, "Stepping into the frame of silence. Mukul Misra's Siddhartha. Life is pain! Do not ask why it is so? It is so!"
While Mahesh Bhatt will feature as a bald Buddhist monk, actor Shivam Bhargav will play the title role and Shazahn Padamsee his love interest and Mahesh Bhatt's daughter. Although the role seems more of a cameo, it is said to form an integral part of the film.
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Blooming love
Shahid Kapoor and Sonakshi Sinha are now managed by the same professional endorsements agency. Shahid advised Sonakshi to join his agency and she did that. Meanwhile, it seems they are throwing caution to the wind as their romance enters full bloom. They were spotted having dinner together with a couple of friends and then went to Shahid's new place in Juhu where they partied till the wee hours.
Hero of the pack Tiger Shroff's debut Heropanti is the biggest release of May this year and has the most positive buzz. Mastram, Manjunath, The XPose are among the other releases of May. None of the May releases have established stars and are mostly Indie-flicks.
Salman says yes to Shuddhi Apparently, Salman Khan has given his nod to Karan Johar's much delayed Shuddhi. The film has been turned down by the likes of Hrithik Roshan and Aamir Khan.
Deglamourised detective
Sushant Singh Rajput was spotted shooting for Dibakar Banerjee's Byomkesh Bakshi in Mumbai. He was dressed in a shirt, worn-out trousers, a sleeveless sweater and a muffler. The film is based on a fictional detective in Bengali literature.
Saif amuses Bebo Kareena Kapoor had a big laugh when she saw her husband Saif Ali Khan dressed like a woman in Humshakals. Saif Ali Khan goes the extra mile to tickle the funny bone of the audience.
Desi warriors Akshay Kumar and Siddharth Malhotra will star in Karan Johar's remake of Hollywood film The Warrior (Joel Edgerton and Tom Hardy) titled Warrior.
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Branching out
Young actor Srman Jain has turned producer. The actor, who is barely a few serials old in the industry, has shot eighty per cent of his first feature film in Marathi. He talks about destiny, his film and more. Why produce a film right now? The director of my show Adaalat, Rajeshji, and I were talking when he came up with this story idea; soon we decided to produce it. We spoke to people who joined in and things just fell into place. I wanted to produce but never thought it would happen so soon. Does this mean no acting jobs currently? Not at all; I am still doing Adaalat. Acting has given me strength and power to do things. I have learnt a lot on the job and realised I wanted to produce. Acting is the love of my life. I will produce more films, but continue acting. Why produce a Marathi film? We felt the concept we had would do well as a Marathi film. This is only the beginning. The story is about five kids, young and energetic and how their lives get changed when they take on the system. Did you cast Aishwarya Sakuja in the film, as she's your friend? That was one of the reason; we both did Saas Bina Sasuraal and good friendship apart, she is a talented actress and popular too...so why not? We developed this role especially for her. I wanted her in the film and I am glad she agreed to do it instantly. What's next — a film starring you in the lead? I wish. Hopefully in the next one; I do plan to make more films. |
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Ranvir firm as anchor
Life has come a full circle for Ranvir Shorey — he is back on television as an anchor. After much deliberation and contemplation, Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa has finally found its new anchor in Ranvir Shorey, who started his career as an anchor. He has a very cheeky sense of humour — something that is perfect for this show. Ranvir will sure forge a fresh equation with the judges and contestants. Ranvir Shorey is also a die-hard fan of the show's judge Madhuri Dixit-Nene. The two have previously worked together in Aaja Nachle and Ranvir is looking forward to interacting with her once more. He has also had a long association with the show's contestant Purab Kohli.
According to a source, "Looking at his fantastic comic timing during stressful situations in Khatron Ke Khiladi we thought Ranveer would be the best choice for Jhalak. The creative team is certain that he would do absolute justice to the show as an anchor. He shares an excellent camaraderie with all the contestants as well as the judges. When we approached him with the offer, he was equally excited to take up the project." The makers are also on the look-out for a female co-host this season. — HRM
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Recovering well
If you were wondering where Roop Durgapal aka Sanchi of Balika Vadhu had disappeared, well, she was unwell. The actress was suffering from chicken pox and is now better. She will soon join the shoot post being absent since two weeks.
Big screen beckons Kushal Punjabi, who will soon be seen in Life OK's Hum Ne Li Hai... Shapath, is also gung-ho about doing a movie next. He has signed Prakash Jha's upcoming movie and tweeted saying, 'I am humbled, fortunate & lucky 2 share the same screen space as @swanandkirkire & @shilpashukl in Prakash jha's new film. I admired & learnt.'
Neil’s back Neil Bhatt whose role as Zakir in Diya Aur Baati Hum was quite appreciated will soon be back on the show. Apparently, the audiences loved him so much that the makers worked out a plan to bring his character back.
Mythical magic Ketaki Kadam, who got popularity with her role as Humaira in Zee's Qubool Hai, now will be seen in Mahabharat. She will play the role of Radha in the Krishna-Leela track, which will be on air soon. The young actor is excited to be part of a mythological show.
Cold comfort
While the heat is taking a toll on us all Karan Wahi is enjoying the cold weather in Shimla. The actor is shooting there for his next film Babbu Ki Jawani. He tweeted, 'Early morning shoots are always fun...though its freeezinnnggg in
shimlaaa.'
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The year ahead
If your birthday is May 14...
The coming period will prove to be quite successful for people born before 1980. 2014 will be good for those who are single. The young and eligible are likely to get married with the consent of their family. If in politics, you have a good future ahead. Positive colours: Green, Turquoise. Select days: Wednesday & Friday. Favourable numbers: 5, 6. Gems recommended: Emerald, Ruby. Charity on birthday: Donate copper utensils to the needy.
You share your birthday with Waheeda Rehman (May 14, 1938, Hyderabad), Bollywood actress who has received many awards throughout her career. She first made an appearance in the film C.I.D. (1956) for which she won the Filmfare Award for Best Actress.
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Astro Turf
ARIES: Self-employed and businessmen will feel like putting in a few hours to supervise property ventures. Conditions at home will be pleasant enough.
Do not speculate today.
Tarot message: Act for yourself and no one else. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 28. TAURUS: If there is work to be done and you feel like doing it, go right ahead. Household chores can be handled efficiently. Consider helping a relative with his or
her domestic needs. Tarot message: Focus on your goals. Lucky colour: Violet. Magic number: 36. GEMINI: Today's the day to do something for your pleasure. Do all in your power to get agreements settled with your co-workers.
A close rapport will develop between you and a colleague. Tarot message: Don't dismiss
the advice of youngsters. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 62. CANCER: Many of you have been working constantly towards achieving your ambitions. Teamwork is the keynote of the day. Older people can drum up certain problems for you. Tarot message: Retain the fruits
of your hardwork. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 56. LEO: The crowning fulfillment of achieving your goals and gaining recognition will arrive soon.
Stay focused on personal vision as you take the last steps to reach a journey's end. Tarot message: Put more efforts to achieve professional goals. Lucky colour: Bottle-green. Magic number: 59. VIRGO: Like a game of snakes and ladders, you should retrace your steps today. Get on with any job that you have in hand.
A secret love affair will bring added pleasure. Tarot message: It is no longer necessary to take risks. Lucky colour: Rust. Magic number: 44.
LIBRA: The 'Page of Swords' reveals it is a good time to tie all loose ends together
and take care of precious details with absolute perfection. You are in for a mixed day. Tarot message: Avoid situations that can turn nasty. Lucky colour: Blue. Magic number: 49. SCORPIO: Searching for a soul-mate? You will be able to make the right connection effortlessly, with the added assistance of intuition and trust. All in all, it will
be a stimulating day. Tarot message: Trust your heart and intuition. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 61. SAGITTARIUS: The doorway to profound knowledge and insight will open through a wise acquaintance. Love blossoms at the workplace. Little will be achieved by a show of force at this stage. Tarot message: Do not let anyone take advantage of you. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 31. CAPRICORN: This can be a day that starts calmly and uneventfully, lulling you into a false sense of security. Trusting people who
have just appeared on the scene will be a foolish move. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Grey. Magic number: 27. AQUARIUS: Minding your business is a good choice.
Live and let live is a good motto currently. If a task seems overwhelming, break it
down into smaller, simple steps. Tarot message: Strive for perfection at work. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 38. PISCES: Life seems full of contention at the moment and it is hard to get along with others. The postponement of a certain deal can cause anxiety. Love life will be quite intriguing. Tarot message: Don't be too certain about obtaining a clearance. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 40.
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