Balancing fact
Manpriya Singh

Art always need not be laden with meanings and messages. Ambassador of Switzerland to India and Bhutan, Linus von Castelmur does not think so…

It's a city where the term French architect mechanically translates to Le Corbusier.

Where a discussion on architecture conjures up parallel images of landmarks in the city and where absolutely any mention of contemporary art and architecture is incomplete without the due spotlight on the origins of Chandigarh. Begin with Le Corbusier he did!

"I shall not talk about Corbusier and not even about what ambassadors talk about…I shall be presenting an imaginary exhibition of two Swiss artists who deserve to be mentioned to you," Ambassador of Switzerland to India and Bhutan, Linus von Castelmur, introduces the works of Swiss artists Peter Fischli and David Weiss. On an invitation by Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi, he takes over the lecture 'On the tipping point: Balance and precariousness as artistic strategy.'

A discussion on contemporary art can be perceived as thought provoking, stimulating, shocking, all, each or none of them. What it often fails to be perceived as is fun. "Their work is free from cynicism and sarcasm and is full of humour. After going through the slides, I'm sure everybody will be convinced that contemporary art can be fun."

There is a picture with subject as mundane as greasy sausages. When put together in different shapes and sizes, the overview is interesting and peculiar. Yet another presents Dr Hoffman on his first LSD trip, while on a cycle that's presented as a bike, courtesy he is high. The sight of a modern settlement, the picture of a rat and elephant put together when their size does match.

Peter Fischli was born in Zurich and David Weiss was also born in Zurich and together the artists collaborated as a duo for over thirty years. Their work has been executed in a variety of media, including sculpture, film, photography and books. A retrospective of their work was held at the Tate Modern, London and traveled to Kunsthaus Zurich and the Deichtorhallen, Hamburg. While David Weiss passed away in 2012, Peter Fischli works and lives in Zurich.

Shares Linus von Castelmur, "They are not brothers, neither lovers...It is amazing to see how they worked together in tandem, all the while producing subtle yet thought-provoking works," he shares as he moves from one slide to the other.

Peter Fischli and David Weiss’ work is free from cynicism and sarcasm and is full of humour. After going through the slides, I'm sure everybody will be convinced that contemporary art can be fun. — Linus von Castelmur

There is cosmo-analysis of the world by the artists. An orbit with intersecting rotations where Albert Einstein is as much at play as Christian Dior. "They showcase the energy of change and process of construction through deconstruction." How much of balance and equilibrium can be achieved by a zucchini, carrot and a kitchen instrument put together?

In some things, actual visuals exceed imagination. Like in some things experience exceeds expectations. For example, contemporary art can be fun.

manpriya@tribunemail.com

Song of the soil
Mona

If you have been floored by his looks and wit, wait till you read Vikas Khanna's latest offering Hymns from the Soil. This celebrity chef has much more to offer than just cuisines

This chef has made his profession glamorous from the word go! This Amritsar lad worked two decades in the kitchen, unknown to the world, before you spotted him as the Michelin starred Indian chef, host of MasterChef India or the man whose fan following cuts across nations.

In Chandigarh, on Friday, the crowd at JW Marriott gets floored by this handsome, witty and humble Chef who brings his mother in tow.

As he adjusts the microphone, Vikas proudly acknowledges to be a Punjabi with karari aawaj. "We come with inbuilt microphones without volume control," he laughs as the crowd joins him.

Coming to Chandigarh brings back loads of memories. He remembers when he would run from home to visit his 'intelligent', 'well behaved' brother studying in Punjab Engineering College. "Chandigarh seemed foreign then. My brother would give option of espresso coffee at Hotel Mountview or dinner at Sector 17 and I would go for the frothy coffee enjoying the green lawns. Little I did I know that one day I would be sipping coffee with a five star chef here."

Mum’s the word

Chef Vikas Khanna always talks of his mother. This time around it's the mum Bindu Khanna who does the talking. "Vikas has been always industrious. Right from his childhood he has been creative too, whatever he made even if mitti ke khilone they would be class apart.” Bindu is happy that fame hasn't changed Vikas a wee bit, "More successful he gets, more humble he gets."

As much he is in love with this city as his hometown Amritsar. He is kind of proud people there love food. "Ask anyone either they are going to or coming from having kulche." While his restaurants keep him busy, writing is what he takes earnestly too. When he was asked a millionth time when was he bringing a vegetarian book, he thought 'it was time'. But he doesn't do cook books anymore, only cultural references. Hymns from the Soil is his labour of three years. "Theme here is mitti (soil). That's the source of our life and joy." His first vegetarian book is also by far his heaviest. It starts with a poem and ends with one too. It's combinations of cuisines here; as many recipes as endearing stories that only a guy from a small town can tell!

The magic wand in kitchen remains to be a mother's hand he vouches but happily shares KitchenAid's cordless blender that he would love to give to mums who need some assistance. His celeb fans are plenty. Vikas loves Michelle Obama and Oprah. "I share the same vision as these inspiring women about hunger in the world."

His next is going to be a book from Koovagam, a village in Tamil Nadu that holds India's biggest transgender festival. "See I can write about anything for everywhere there is food," he twinkles while posing with his fans for umpteenth photo clicks before his staff whisks him away to his next event!

mona@tribunemail.com

STAR TRACK
What’s cooking?


Innocent outing
: Lisa Haydon and Randeep Hooda

Actors Lisa Haydon and Randeep Hooda were spotted having dinner together at a suburban five-star hotel on Tuesday. Both are single and haven't worked together. However, Lisa Haydon vehemently denied the buzz that they are dating.

"What a joke! Randeep and I were introduced half an hr before this picture was taken at a work dinner organised by @blinglive with 2 management members present. Most surprised to see a paparazzi on our way out as there was no other event at the hotel that night....He was obviously tipped off, I certainly have my guesses! How disappointing! I do not "casually date" and if I did it, trust me...it would be somewhere a lot more private than where paparazzi are indiscriminately let through the front door (sic)," the 27-year-old model-turned-actress tweeted.

"And Peace to travelling to the suburbs for a "date". I live in breach candy and would make Mohammed come to the MoFo-ing mountain, of course randeep looks alarmed in the photos. We hardly know each other, you couldn't even call us "friends". I wouldn't bother usually clarifying.. but enough has been said in recent times about my personal life. Such rumours are distressing to many ppls lives. Respect appreciated!”

Karan’s launch pad

TV actor Karan Chhabra, who was seen in the popular show The Serial on Channel V, is all set to make his Bollywood debut alongside Tiger Shroff with Heropanti. Karan's character in the film is called Rocket Singh. The film releases this week. We catch up with Karan to tell us more...

Are you excited about your debut?

I am actually very nervous. It's like going for a board exam or maybe even tougher. I wonder how people would react after watching this film. We have given our cent per cent to the film and I really hope it does well.

What made you choose this film?

I liked the story, plus to work with the banner like Nadiawala is most people's dream. Moreover, my character is important as it is the second and closest to Tiger Shroff's character.

How was the experience shooting for the film?

We were like one big happy family on the sets. Since we are all mostly newcomers in the film, we had no pressure on the sets. We were all very cool and relaxed. Everybody was so supportive.

How is Tiger Shroff as a co-star?

He is an amazing person. He is really a genuine, down-to-each and hard-working guy. We were relaxed on the sets but we worked very hard for this film. I am still in touch with him. We are good friends.

A lot of TV actors prefer films over serials. Does the medium really matter for you?

To me, my work is worship. Everything else takes a back seat. It doesn't really matter what medium it is as long as I'm getting to do what I love, and that's acting.

What's next?

I am currently in the talk for a couple of projects. For both, a television show and a film. But I will have to wait and see before I can finally make an announcement.

In a league of her own

Deepika Padukone is in her peak form right now. Her films are having a great run at the box office and her popularity is at an all-time high. Recently, she has added another feather to her cap. The UEFA has invited her as a guest to watch this year's UEFA Champions League final in Lisbon, Portugal.

The final will take place on May 24. Deepika is very happy with this honour and expressed her excitement in a statement, "I am honoured to be UEFA's guest for the Champions League final in Lisbon. Looking forward to a competitive game of football with two of Europe's best teams."

The football fans in India who will be watching the game on Ten Action channel can expect to catch a glimpse of Bollywood's current reigning queen. The UEFA Champions League is telecast in more than 223 countries and has a global audience of more than four billion. This year's final will be played between two Spanish teams, the hugely popular Real Madrid and their fierce rivals, the dark horse Atletico Madrid. While there will be plenty of fireworks on the field, personalities like Deepika will ensure that there is a dash of glamour in the galleries.

Following mom’s footsteps

Prateik was last seen in Issaq which came and went. He is currently shooting for a Bengali film called Auroni Taukhon which will be dubbed in English too. He talks about movies and life.

At peace with dad

I have been around Mumbai only. I moved to a new place from my house in Carter Road. I have patched up with my father and his family. My father was never around when I was growing up. I always had to go to meet him. He was always busy. I still can't deal with the fact that my mother passed away so soon after my birth. My father talks about my mother and I listen to him.

Movies of choice

I have been choosy, trying to do the movies that my mother would have done. I know that she did a Bengali film and finally I have done one too.

Lost love

Our love fizzled out. We both wanted different things from life. She wanted a lot of space. We are not in touch but we will be cordial with each other if we meet in the future.

Meeting Amyra

The link-up happened because her real name is Amy. She is an attractive girl. I am not dating her. I feel like I am in love with every girl but they kick my butt...like Saif Ali Khan's character in Dil Chahta Hai.

In the race

Saif Ali Khan will be part of Race 3 which will go on the floors next year. Buzz is that Varun Dhawan might star in the film as well.

Trailing Cannes

Bollywood diva Aishwarya Rai Bachchan attended the amfAr gala along with her actor husband Abhishek Bachchan.

Dressed in a shimmery Armani Prive gown, the 40-year-old actress sported bold red-lips, turquoise eyes laden with multiple coats of mascara and wore her hair open with soft curls.

The makeup accentuated the gold in her stunning shimmering gown. Abhishek also looked dapper in black bandhgala jacket as he posed with his wife on the red carpet.

The amfAr gala was held at the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc at the French Riviera and attended by model Natasha Poly, Barbara Palvin, Bianca Balti, Lara Stone, Jane Fonda among others. Aishwarya has been a regular at Cannes thanks to her stint as the L'Oreal Paris brand ambassador. It is her 13th festival appearance. — PTI

And the role goes to...

Rumour has it that Kareena Kapoor has reportedly bagged a role in Ashutosh Gowariker's upcoming period drama. If all goes well, she will be paired opposite Hrithik Roshan. Apparently Priyanka Chopra was in the race for the role.

Parched India

Leena Yadav, who has directed films like Teen Patti and Shabd, is now working on a movie called Parched which is about the sexuality of women in rural India. It is produced by Ajay Devgn and Aseem Bajaj and international cinematographer Russell Carpenter is shooting it.

Milky way!

Yo Yo Honey Singh loves to drink milk. While shooting for a promo commercial recently, he had a glass of milk and then he went to a cowshed nearby the studio and ordered another jug of milk.

Life is beautiful
Jasmine Singh

You may not completely agree to it, but then you cannot deny that beauty also comes in two degrees, one is where beauty comes with an additional bonus of grey cells, and one that has no support from grey cells. Standing pretty and standing tall are the two beauties, Mehak Chahal of the Bigg Boss fame and Annie Sekhon, a TV actress, each falling in one of the categories. We leave this homework for you or you might get an answer towards the end!

Over to the lovely ladies, visiting INIFD-8 to celebrate the fashion institute's recognition by International Accreditation Organisation (IAO) certified by United States of America Department of State and District in Columbia. Dressed in the summer special clothes, both the ladies had their hair tied, their hair styling funda for the season. When it comes to fundas of life, both have a different stance though.

A different take: Annie Sekhon


(L-R) Mehak Chahal and Annie Sekhon. Photo: Manoj Mahajan

We'd seen her as Rinku from the tele serial Parvarrish and a couple of advertisements. The pretty face from Ludhiana moved to Mumbai a year and a half back, and now feels at home in the City of Dreams.

Wanted to be an actor

Silence… Hmm ..Yes, I think I always wanted to be an actress as far as I know.

TV and films

TV and films are two different mediums! In television you get a script 5 minutes before the take, so we don't get time to prepare. There is no experimentation, also we can't prepare when we are home, because it's time to sleep! In films, we see a lot of experimentation and creativity.

Most inspiring roles

Vidya Balan's in Kahaani and Alia Bhatt.

Punjabi cinema?

I think we need better Punjabi cinema. I have seen a lot of comedy, now I want to see something else. The women are just eye candies in Punjabi films. I need to see something different now. But, yes, Punjabi cinema has made a lot of progress so far, however we need something different.

Game for Punjabi films?

Totally, why not? But something different!

Dance or item number?

I love dancing!

Up next

I play the lead in an upcoming movie Bhangarh opposite Adeel Chaudhary.

Head on: Mehak Chahal

She doesn't shy away from calling a spade a spade. Headstrong attitude nevertheless warm, she made people sit up and listen to her during her stint in Bigg Boss season 5.

So far so good

I was back in Norway, launching my fashion line.

Signature style

I would never follow a style just because it's popular. I will only wear something that defines me, suits me and I feel good about.

Bigg changes

Bigg Boss was definitely a new thing. I discovered so much more about myself. My parents have always taught me to say what is right, but politely. I still feel if I hold on to something that is right, it will be proved towards the end.

Sing and dance

I love to dance, and we do item songs to be seen. All the same, sometimes a picture gets more publicity because of the item song than anything else. Were you able to make a decision?

First-day-first show
Nothing heroic

Heropanti

Produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and directed by Sabbir Khan, Heropanti is a Bollywood film. The film marks the debut of Tiger Shroff, son of Jackie Shroff, and Kriti Sanon in lead roles, featuring Sandeepa Dhar in a pivotal role. As many as 21 actors are making their debut in the film. The movie is the remake of a Telugu movie Parugu starring Allu Arjun and Sheela. The soundtrack for the movie has been composed by Sajid-Wajid.

Typical masala

It's a typical Bollywood masala film and has nothing more to it. I think Tiger Shroff looks pretty good and his action scenes are interesting as well. But I did not like the film so much.

Vanshika Sehgal, student

Mixed breed

I did not like the film very much since it is neither entirely a romantic film, nor an action film. In fact, the actions are quite over the top and unnecessary.

Amanbir Singh, agriculturist

Something promising

It's a one-time watch, but only if you like Bollywood masala films. As far as acting is concerned, for starters, Tiger and Kirti look promising. 

Suneet Kaur, student

Kochadaiiyaan

Kochadaiiyaan, which refers to the king with a long, curly mane, is a 2014 Indian Tamil motion capture 3D computer-animated period film directed by Soundarya R. Ashwin and written by KS Ravikumar. The film features Rajinikanth enacting and voicing three lead roles, whilst R Sarathkumar, Aadhi, Deepika Padukone, Shobana, Rukmini Vijayakumar, Jackie Shroff and Nassar enacting and voice supporting their respective characters. The film has cinematography handled by Rajiv Menon whereas the music and original score is composed by AR Rahman.

Confused tale

I didn't like the film at all. It's a very confusing film and even though it features the Rajnikanth, the film fails to grip the audience.

Yamini Lamba, freelancer web designer

Nothing much

It's a sheer waste of time and money. I didn't like the film at all. It's a sheer waste of time and money.

Karan Sachdeva, graphic designer

— As told to Amarjot Kaur

First-day-first show
Nothing heroic

Heropanti

Produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and directed by Sabbir Khan, Heropanti is a Bollywood film. The film marks the debut of Tiger Shroff, son of Jackie Shroff, and Kriti Sanon in lead roles, featuring Sandeepa Dhar in a pivotal role. As many as 21 actors are making their debut in the film. The movie is the remake of a Telugu movie Parugu starring Allu Arjun and Sheela. The soundtrack for the movie has been composed by Sajid-Wajid.

Typical masala

It's a typical Bollywood masala film and has nothing more to it. I think Tiger Shroff looks pretty good and his action scenes are interesting as well. But I did not like the film so much.

Vanshika Sehgal, student

Mixed breed

I did not like the film very much since it is neither entirely a romantic film, nor an action film. In fact, the actions are quite over the top and unnecessary.

Amanbir Singh, agriculturist

Something promising

It's a one-time watch, but only if you like Bollywood masala films. As far as acting is concerned, for starters, Tiger and Kirti look promising.

Suneet Kaur, student

Kochadaiiyaan

Kochadaiiyaan, which refers to the king with a long, curly mane, is a 2014 Indian Tamil motion capture 3D computer-animated period film directed by Soundarya R. Ashwin and written by KS Ravikumar. The film features Rajinikanth enacting and voicing three lead roles, whilst R Sarathkumar, Aadhi, Deepika Padukone, Shobana, Rukmini Vijayakumar, Jackie Shroff and Nassar enacting and voice supporting their respective characters. The film has cinematography handled by Rajiv Menon whereas the music and original score is composed by AR Rahman.

Confused tale

I didn't like the film at all. It's a very confusing film and even though it features the Rajnikanth, the film fails to grip the audience.

Yamini Lamba, freelancer web designer

Nothing much

It's a sheer waste of time and money. I didn't like the film at all.

Karan Sachdeva, graphic designer

— As told to Amarjot Kaur

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: You will be in the mood to meet people from different walks of life. Overseas visitor may be relaying on you in some way. A spiritual meeting can bring several interesting people together.

Tarot message: You shall prevent a lot of trouble by taking timely action. Lucky colour: Fuchsia.

Magic number: 46.

TAURUS: Indulging in idle talk and gossip with the neighbours will not satisfy. Check out the newspapers to find activities that appeal now. You may feel a bit scruffy and careless in the evening. Tarot message: Do not be in the rush to spend extravagantly

Lucky colour: Crimson.

Magic number: 58.

GEMINI: Beware! Someone may back-stab you. You will be surprised at the excellent reception you get. You are likely to have a lot a fun at work and enjoy a few pranks with co-workers. Tarot message: Don't reveal your plans to your competitors.

Lucky colour: Metallic Grey.

Magic number: 31.

CANCER: Do not become easily ruffled. Your personal and public life is likely to clash. Women: Do not argue over silly matters. A desire to beautify your space could find you at the paint store or you might visit an art gallery.

Tarot message: Feel good about yourself. Lucky colour: Bottle green

Magic number: 63.

LEO: You have achieved most of your short term objectives today. A good business day. Associates will be helpful. You will find the atmosphere at work congenial to make progress. Tarot message: You may encounter some difficulties regarding finances. Lucky colour: Yellow

Magic number: 27.

VIRGO: Your resources can be boosted. It is a good time to look at real estate. Whatever you set your mind on you can achieve now. Get up and get going. This need not be a difficult day. Tarot message: Take one step at a time and avoid being over-anxious.

Lucky colour: Ebony.

Magic number: 36.

LIBRA: Your card "Two of Pentacles" shine on love, money and sports. Stick to your schedule. Your conscience is likely to be pricked. Instead, open your mind to new things.

Tarot message: Remember never to fall for rash promises.

Lucky colour: Orange.

Magic number: 44.

SCORPIO: There is a promise of better things in the offing. It is simply up to you to take hold of opportunities and make them yours. Watch your step while dealing with superiors. Tarot message: Do as many courses as you can to get ahead of others. Lucky colour: Sea green.

Magic number: 51.

SAGITTARIUS: Your emotions can over-ride your good judgment in some situations. You need to grow into a happy and well-adjustable adult. You could be misreading the actions of loved ones. Your diet needs attention. Tarot message: Take things one at a time. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 65.

CAPRICORN: Not a favourable day for setting out on a long journey. You may have some worries that cause restlessness. Lovers: a romantic evening is ahead. Tarot message: Be articulate to prevent people from making their own conclusions.

Lucky colour: Purple.

Magic number: 52.

AQUARIUS: Good company is likely to figure prominently in today's activities. Women: Focus on a balanced diet. A Libra friend will be supportive.

Tarot message: Dare to accomplish those tasks which normally take up a lot of time.

Lucky colour: Peach.

Magic number: 32.

PISCES: This is not the right day to complete property deals. Get your priorities right. An offer to move up the corporate ladder may be within your grasp. You may have to make a long journey which will be successful. Tarot message: Avoid situations that may turn nasty. Lucky colour: Saffron.

Magic number: 28.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is May 24...

Your love life takes a destined turn this year. The desire for partnership could feel surprisingly overwhelming, turning your free-spirited ways upside down. If you're already committed, this could be a renaissance in your relationship where pleasure and romance become the essentials. Commitment is important in all areas of your life in 2014, and romance is no exception. The positive circumstances listed here won't necessarily fall into your lap. Positive colours: White, sea green, cream, Select days: Friday, Thursday & Tuesday Favourable numbers: 5,6

Gems recommended: Diamond & Emerald

Charity on birthday: You may donate utensils at a religious place today.

You share your birthday with Rajesh Roshan (May 24, 1955 ,Mumbai) son of Hindi film composer Roshan and younger brother of film director and actor Rakesh Roshan. He is also uncle of Hrithik Roshan. He will excel in music industry this year.

Chatter box
Stating the facts

This Friday Encounter brings to you yet another nail biting series which will showcase the crimes of Katta Shridhar gang that held Mumbai hostage to its acts of burglaries and highway robberies. The episode will feature talented actors Rohit Roy and Murli Sharma in never seen before characters. The episode will narrate the story of Katta Shridhar gang, the first ones to use country made revolvers 'Katta'.

The gang was known for its merciless killings of innocent people and at times not sparing the cops too. The daring move of Katta gang from road to bank robberies lead to the encounter of Katta Shridhar. Talking about the experience of portraying the character of Katta Shridhar, Murli Sharma stated, "I am essaying the role of a merciless gangster who is a very strong-minded and a meticulous leader. Katta Shridhar's character was very challenging and I have tried my best to be as realistic as possible. My experience of shooting for Encounter has been great as I have got to work with Rohit Roy after a long gap of 15 years." Commenting on his association with the show, Rohit Roy says, "I am essaying the role of a fearless police officer Milind Mandlik for whom work means business. This is the first time I am playing the role of a full-fledged police officer in a show. Talking about the experience of working for Encounter, it has been great and really special because the way it is shot is totally different from any television show. The team of Encounter was very amazing to work with, especially my co-actor Murli Sharma, as we are sharing screen after a gap of fifteen years. I am sure the audience will love to see us together in the show."

A tale of love

Aditya Redij will soon be back on TV. He was last seen in Junoon - Aisi Nafrat Toh Kaisa Ishq and recently in an episode on Encounter and has now signed a new show called Bandhan. The story is about a six-year old girl and her bond with an elephant.





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