Daddy cool
This Father’s Day here’s getting a bit curious and finding out why mothers take the cake when it comes to celebrations…

Mona

Mere pass maa hai…probably remains the most dramatic and oft-quoted dialogue in Bollywood…but why are we talking of maa on Father's Day? There is a reason. While parents play more or less an equal role in bringing up children, somehow mothers take away the cake when it comes to celebrations. Even surveys point out that spending on Father's Day is considerably less (thirty per cent) than on Mother's Day. Is motherhood exaggerated in our real lives as well as reel lives? We explore.

"Of course, my father didn't go through the labour pain when I was born, my mother did. She will always be more special," we get a straight reply from a group of girls. We agree, a mother carries the child in the womb and plays a bigger role in the bringing up process, but a father's contribution as bread-winner or otherwise is no less. Harmi Arya, who has just finished her graduation, clears the air, "Traditionally in India, mothers focus on tending the child and fathers fulfill material needs. It continues way beyond childhood. Mothers are more attuned to a child's feelings and aspirations than fathers. No wonder kids respond more to mothers than their dads."

Twenty-year-old Akshat Arora considers it quite normal that mothers are idolized more than the fathers. "Children are closer to their mothers; I am way more open to her than my dad," says Akshat, who goes all out on Mother's Day buying her flowers, chocolates and taking her out for dinner. And on Father's Day…"Well, now that you have put it my head, I would surely do something."

Miss India finalist Mansi Grewal concedes that mothers get more importance than fathers, but points out that things are changing for good. "I don't mind admitting that I am little closer to my mother than my father, but I treat them with equal love and respect. I know it's not the same for everyone. I have seen that a mother's role does get exaggerated in many households," says Mansi, who takes out her dad for a nice dinner and doesn't forget to buy him a present every Father's Day. "I do the same for my mum too," she adds.

Sociologist Kiranpreet Kaur, chairperson, Department of Sociology, Panjab University, puts things in perspective, "Day celebrations are largely Western concepts well-accepted in India now. It is very true that a mother's role is highlighted more, but things are changing fast. Even men are warming up to tending kids and doing their bit on the home front. I see Father's Day as an equally important affair as Mother's Day in the coming times."

Screen shot
Bollywood has long upheld the stereotype of a doting maa all set to sacrifice for her child's sake and an authoritarian father against whom the young son or daughter rebels. Scriptwriter Sanjay Chauhan shares his take, "Motherhood has always been glorified in our culture be it our dharti as maa or the cow. Chanda is mama but who the father is nobody knows. Motherhood has been exalted to the level of God; mother is pious, can't do wrong and that is what is portrayed in cinema too. While a father can go wrong, a mother can't. In my movie Maine Gandhi Ko Nahin Mara, I tried to reverse that trend. The bond between the father, Anupam Kher, and daughter, Urmila Matondkar, is unique. The change has begun. Today fathers are more of friends unlike the previous generation, where a respectful distance was maintained. Today fathers are affectionate and giving. This change would be reflected on the screen too in the times to come."

mona@tribunemail.com

Gift a surprise
There is always a special token of love ready for your dear father. Choose from among the best…
Mona

He has given his time, energy and worldly possessions to you all these years…today is the day to reciprocate not all, but bit of what he has showered on you without expecting much back. So spare some time, make an effort and reach out for the most important man in your life this Father's Day. Here's our quick guide for those who were waiting till the last moment to make their Father's Day extra special.

Tech tale

With Connect's new app you can send your father a personalised e-card and it's just a click away! Log on to your Facebook page; go to http://goo.gl/ipJYw2 to get started. There are templates to choose from and space to write your own heartfelt message to your dad.

Natural care

Chocolates and wines make perfect presents for any occasion. If your dad is a chocoholic or lover of Bacchus, Godrej Nature's Basket gives you the option of customising one for your dad. Choose from the range available and you can also do it online. Or from any other store you fancy.

Right click

Nostalgia is a huge part of growing up. A scrapbook or photo album charting the journey of your relationship is certainly worth assembling. You can make it as long or short as you like and pick up a theme if you wish.

Home front

If your dad is too caught up in the rut of life, a surprise party with all his friends would be a good idea. You can do it provided you know who has been close to your father and if you have their contacts. Make reservations in a restaurant of his choice or give a personal touch by preparing your home for it.

Perfect timing

If you are in a mood to splurge, a TAG Heuer timepiece would be just perfect. TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre 5 Automatic - Steel & Rose Gold is an elegant model, using 18-carat rose gold. The H-shaped bracelet, the recognisable signature of the Carrera collection, is a delightful blend of gold and fine-brushed steel with meticulously polished edges on lateral rows.

Happy feet

Gift your father the best footwear from Egle & Louis Alberti. This collection is lined with premium leather and has single oak leather soles. The collection has a range of striking colours such as red, blue, white and also evergreen colours such as brown, tan; black in loafers, moccasins, formals, casuals and much more. The price range for Egle & Louis Alberti starts from Rs 8,590 and is available at exclusive showrooms and major retail shops in Sector 17, Chandigarh.

Spa time

Men are enjoying spas as much as their female counterparts today. Book a rejuvenating therapy for your father. Chandigarh offers a host of options right from Thai massage to sea treatments.

mona@tribunemail.com

Following a star
Chandigarh lad Naveen Arya, whose Govinda act got him into Entertainment Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega, believes reality shows are a big learning platform
Mona

Naveen Arya in the middle with his team
happy feet: Naveen Arya in the middle with his team

He is a true follower of filmstar Govinda; so much so that his Govinda 'act' has got him an entry in Entertainment Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega! Naveen Arya, self-taught choreographer, learnt dance while watching his favourite star on TV, YouTube and some workshops.

This 24-year-old choreographer from Chandigarh is fun loving and loves to leave a 'fun' impression wherever he goes. Having been through a couple of reality shows, Naveen isn't bothered too much about winning. "Reality shows are a great learning platform for me. Getting to know and interacting with industry biggies is another big plus," says Naveen, who loves to sing, mimic and act. His favourite choreographers remain Ganesh Acharya and Prabhu Deva. "I have also danced in films that have been shot in Chandigarh," he shares proudly.

So is it dancing or acting on the cards for him? "My aim is so much taller than my height. Even Govinda started as a choreographer to begin with and turned into a superstar. If only I could replicate that!" This BA part II student appeared on Entertainment Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega with another two team members Gaurav and Ankur from his hometown Chandigarh. They received a lot of appreciation ion the show from the judges. Together they are called Confuse Beats Crew. The name, he explains thus, "When we started performing and winning on stage, we were looking for a name. When we couldn't come up with anything, we used Confuse Beats Crew!"

Naveen credits his parents for letting him explore his talent, "They always asked me to follow my heart. Hopefully I would make them proud one day!"

A look within

Purple Mangoes, New Delhi, is holding a 'Let Yourself Go' theatre art workshop for adults and children in Chandigarh. The workshop is about taking a journey that enables one to look within — a process of finding one's inner self; the part that is without masks, identities and the walls we build around ourselves.

The workshop will empower participants to be comfortable and confident, to shed inhibitions, to be patient and understanding, to be able to have fun and see humour in various aspects of life. Through the art of theatre and clowning, one can rediscover inner qualities of openness, acceptance and spontaneity. It helps shed inhibitions and liberates, allowing the imagination to soar.

(At Guru Harkrishan Model School, Sector 38-D, Chandigarh, from June 14 to 17. The workshop is being offered in two batches - the first batch will be from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm and the second from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm). — TNS

Safe & sound
The latest model from the house of Volvo Car, XC90, will be protected by safety valves
Ashima Batish

Thomas Andersson
FAST LANE: Thomas Andersson

A beast of a car boasts of a beauty unparalleled in the automobile sector, but luxury and looks come second…Thomas Andersson, vice president, international, Volvo Cars, opens the first chapter of his experience of twenty years in the automobile industry. "Nothing precedes safety, be it in India or Sweden," he says.

The latest model from the house of luxury cars is XC90. "In case the car ever topples, besides the usual air bags, it will be protected by safety valves." He says the seven-seater car is a next generation model, promising safety and comfort like never before. "To take our efforts forward, for this model, we have got the seats designed from orthopaedic surgeons."

Thomas, who started his career as a sales manager with Volvo, has stuck to the group for two decades. "The company has global presence. All this while, I have been quite a globe trotter all thanks to Volvo," he quips. So from Spain to Germany to Argentina to North America, he has had postings everywhere. India, he feels, is the emerging market, which will eventually prove to be bigger than the Western counterparts. The conclusion is made on the basis of the performance of competitor luxury brands. But then there is no denying the fact that there is intense competition and other brands are faring extremely well. "Our competitors have been in India for a decade now whereas we are recent entrants, but we are optimistic about capturing the market gradually."

The model, XC90, he says, is apt for Indian weather and traffic conditions. "In fact given the superior, ahead-of-time safety features, the car is a sensible buy in India." The brand has ensured that there is a stronger service network and parts distribution system to cement the bond with customers, which Thomas says matters the most.

ashima@tribunemail.com

Sweet hug!

With its inception in Ludhiana two years ago, hug! has quickly grown from a single dessert outlet to a full-blown dessert brand. And now it is making its presence felt in the City Beautiful as well.

They have also introduced the exciting 'Do It Yourself' service, which allows people to choose and mix their favourite flavours and add unlimited toppings. Another healthy dessert on the menu is Gelato, the Italian version of light and fat free ice-creams that are hugely popular. Recently hug! has expanded its menu to include authentic flavours of donuts and cupcakes. Along with these dessert options hug! also serves smoothies, coffees, shakes, waffles, crepes, muffins, pasta and potato snacks.

"The tremendously positive response that we have been receiving from people has encouraged us to constantly innovate and expand. We were happy to find a number of like-minded people to partner with us and expand the dessert revolution trend through the franchise. We are looking forward to serving the people of Chandigarh and are eagerly waiting for their response. In the coming year, we will be launching six more outlets in the Tricity," said Rishabh Oswal, CEO, hug! Foods Pvt. Ltd. — TNS

STAR TRACK
Filling in for Britney

Keira Knightley Actress Keira Knightley has revealed that she is often mistaken for Britney Spears and plays along and pretends to be the singer.

The 29-year-old Begin Again star has signed autographs pretending to be Spears, reported a website. "It has happened to me three times in LA. I was quite excited by that and definitely signed and had a picture," she said.

The British beauty said she has very little in common with the singer, 32, as she hates singing in public. "I like singing if I'm on my own in the shower or if I am really drunk, but I'm not a big fan of singing in front of people, which I didn't realise until I said yes to the movie and found myself singing in front of rather a lot of people," Knightley said. The actress said she is also often mistaken for other celebrities, including Kate Winslet and Natalie Portman. — PTI

Playing along: Keira Knightley

An honorary dame

Hollywood actress and UN special envoy Angelina Jolie has been given one of the highest accolades granted by the British establishment as she is made an honorary dame in the Queen's birthday honours.

The 39-year-old Oscar winner, who has spent much of this week co-chairing a London summit on war rape with foreign secretary William Hague, has become a dame commander of the order of St Michael and St George courtesy of the foreign office in recognition of her work on conflict sexual crime, reported a publication.

Jolie, in London with partner Brad Pitt, is co-founder with Hague of the Preventing Sexual Violence Initiative (PSVI) and was nominated in the diplomatic service and overseas birthday 2014 honours for services to UK foreign policy and the campaign to end war zone sexual violence. "To receive an honour related to foreign policy means a great deal to me as it is what I wish to dedicate my working life to. Working on PSVI and with survivors of rape is an honour in itself. I know that succeeding in our goals will take a lifetime and I am dedicated to it for all of mine," Jolie said. — PTI

Love birds in Barcelona

Virat Kohli flew to Barcelona in order to be with his lady love Anushka Sharma, who is there for the shooting of Dil Dhadakne Do. They were spotted by Bollywood fans in a hotel.

Kareena needs career advice

Kareena Kapoor Khan recently turned down Durga Rani Singh and another film produced by Vidhu Vinod Chopra which is to be directed by Bejoy Nambiar. The film stars Farhan Akhtar and Amitabh Bachchan. We really wonder why Bebo is turning down such plum roles. She needs a career adviser before the offers run out.

A couple of differences

Dino Morea and Nandita Mahtani have been dating for a long time but Nandita does not want to get married again after her failed marriage to Sunjay Kapur, who is now getting divorced from Karisma Kapoor. Dino wants to settle down and have children.

An incredible proposal

Actress Mila Kunis has revealed that she cried when actor Ashton Kutcher proposed her and it was the best day of her life so far.

The 30-year-old former That 70s Show star said her relationship with Kutcher, 36, is different from all the ones she had in the past, reported a website. "I cried. I was a mess. Not to discredit any relationships in my past, but this relationship is different," she said.

"All of a sudden, it wasn't the same. And I was really proud of myself for acknowledging that," Kunis said, recalling the day Kutcher proposed her. Kunis said before Kutcher she could easily say no to people but he changed it all for her.

"I was really good at saying no. I decided I was just going to say yes to any opportunity that came, no matter how crazy. And it changed my life." — PTI

Of Bombay and Sri Lanka!
Anurag Kashyap is all set to screen Bombay Velvet for Mahinda Rajapaksa

Anurag Kashyap and the lead actors of Bombay Velvet, which has been shot in Sri Lanka, will host a special screening for the country's leader and his family.

Mumbai of the 1950s and 60s was painstakingly recreated in Sri Lanka for the shoot of Bombay Velvet. The film, which is based on author Gyan Prakash's book titled Mumbai Fables, chronicles the story of the city and how it became a metropolis.

The film-maker took everyone by surprise when he announced his decision to shoot in Sri Lanka. The film-maker explained that building sets in Mumbai would have proved to be a lot more expensive.

The neighbouring country played a gracious host, allotting a four-acre plot of land for the duration of the shoot. Now, as a thank-you gesture, Anurag and his team are preparing to host a screening of the film in Sri Lanka. "The event will be attended by President Mahinda Rajapaksa, among others. It will be held in November, a few days prior to the official release," says a source close to the production unit.

The shooting of the film took place at Ranminithenna Mahinda Rajapaksa National Tele Cinema Park, which was made in 2010 under the regime of President Rajapaksa to promote the local film industry. Bombay Velvet is the first foreign film to be shot there. The source adds, "In fact, even after shooting was wrapped up, park authorities requested that the makers let the set remain intact so it could be used as a tourist attraction."

Asin’s ironical situation

Asin has fallen sick while shooting for All Is Well in Shimla and that is quite ironical. She fell sick due to the cold and inclement weather in Shimla.

Yet another try

Arjan Bajwa has finally resurfaced! He has a role with grey shades in Vidya Balan starrer Bobby Jasoos. We hope that he gets his due.

Sunny Leone turns a princess

Sunny Leone After storming box-office with her erotic thriller Ragini MMS 2, Sunny Leone will be going in for a complete makeover in her forthcoming film. She will play a royal princess in her next film that is tentatively titled Leela. The film is a co-production among Bhushan Kumar, Ahmed Khan and Shaira Khan. Leela will be directed and written by Bobby Khan and is a 9-song musical. According to the makers, Sunny will be seen in a completely new avatar compared to her previous films. It is said to be a passionate love story, shot extensively in Rajasthan and London.





Changing colours:
Sunny Leone

Too much of a good thing

Aamir Khan pushed himself too hard while working out for Peekay. He pulled his muscle and has been advised strict bed rest.

chatter box
To pa, with love…

Once again, it's time to pamper your dad by gifting him something special. On Father’s Day, we ask these actors about their plans. Here's what they say...

Lessons on life
Siddhant Karnick

Pleasing my father and mother is the easiest thing. Two things I have learnt from my father is, you live just once, but if you live it right, once is enough and the second thing is to enjoy life. Work hard and play even harder. My father has never been the one to go after gifts. But I guess the best gift I can give him is to spend quality time with him. He has always pampered me.

Trips and tours
Veebha Anand

My father taught me that a human being can do anything if he or she wants it bad. My father admires nature a lot and he loves to own a farmhouse along with a number of animals... So I want to gift him an overseas trip with my mother.

My dad, my world!
Tina Dutta

My dad is everything to me; my world rotates around my dad. I will not do anything to hurt him. He has always been a strong pillar of support in my life. My father has been the biggest support when I started my career at the age of four and a half.

Adventurous pursuits
Vahbiz Dorabajee

My father is a calm and a cool person. But when he gets angry we have to run for our life. I remember, I lied once when I was small, and I can still remember his red eyes. My father is my backbone. He is a friend. We are animal lovers and adventurous people. I remember we played with tiger cubs and orangutans in the Bali Zoo.

Daddy’s day out!
Sneha Wagh

I have learnt to be humble and being fair from my father. I would want to gift him and my mom a holiday. We have been pampered a lot by our parents.

Wishing well
Ankit Gera

I have learnt to be a strong person and now I can handle situations with more patience. If given a chance, I will take him to a world tour on my own expense to pamper him. I would gift him more and more success of mine, which is the most special thing for him in the world.

On a shopping spree
Shritama Mukherjee

Two things that I've learnt from my dad is to be sincere always in everything and do your best all the time. He loves it when I gift him something specially apparels and footwear, so I would take him out for shopping.

Sing and dance along

Actor Eijaz Khan who has dabbled in films, television and theatre is all set for his first ever musical show titled Bollywood Dreams. It will be premiered in New Jersey on June 15.

Eijaz Khan says, "I have this opportunity to perform in a new musical, Bollywood Dreams, which is opening in New York. I play a struggling dancer whose dreams of being an actor are finally fulfilled. When I was in New York last time I met the producer who came up with this story. Frankly, I am doing this for the experience, I love travelling and this has given me an opportunity to start something new. As an actor, I keep getting offers to perform. The unique thing about this musical is that it portrays values. To have wider audience it will have English songs."

What’s on your plate!

Sharing food with another human being is an intimate act that should be engaged in lightly…and that's what celebrity Chef Shilarna Vaze (nee Chinu), a young and dynamic chef, did when she decided to change gears! With a degree in Political Science, she found her calling in food. She decided to enrol at the prestigious Diploma De Cuisine course at Le Cordon Bleu, Paris, one of the top-ranking culinary institutes in the world. She is back to share her great culinary learning.

A traveller, blogger and eco-food connoisseur, Chef Chinu, brings a fusion of recipes that break all the rules of the kitchen, push all the boundaries of flavour, and stimulate your palate like never before, in the popular show Sunny Side Up, from Monday June 16, at 8 pm, on FOODFOOD. What's more interesting is, as a special guest, she invites her buddy, beautiful actress Esha Deol (Chinu worked in Esha's first film Na Tum Jano Na Hum), who shares some little known secrets about her culinary skills, her mom Hema Malini's favourite recipe, her husband Bharat being a foodie and more… in Chinu's food heaven full of good food and great conversation. With a bit of music, art and humour thrown in, this show will be the perfect formula to relax while you eat!

Chef Chinu, who settled in Goa, worked for some of its finest kitchens — A Reverie and Sublime. While waiting to open a restaurant of her own, Chinu started a successful sushi delivery service, Ninja Sushi that further boosted her reputation as one of India's most adored chefs. As the host of the popular show, Sunny Side Up, she helps you stay energetic with a heady mix of sugar 'n' spice and dollops of happiness, sprinkled with expert tips … all served fresh, on a smoking hot platter!

Stay tuned to Chef Chinu's Kitchen Rhapsody in Sunny Side Up starting Monday June 16, at 8.00 pm, only on FOODFOOD.

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Try to reduce the amount of cash you spend on groceries. New attractions are likely to be serious. Do not hold back anything from your boss. Sportsmen: Focus on exercise and diet. Tarot message: Don't waste an opportunity by being rash. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 44.

TAURUS: Check all the figures related to jointly held funds. Women: do not go in for idle gossip. Your friends and support network are backing you at the moment. A new project will get a go-ahead. Tarot message: Keep your eyes on the future. Lucky colour: Fiery red. Magic number: 28.

GEMINI: This is a hazardous day for speculation. Pace yourself, since your energy levels can be low. Take some time out for meditation to disengage from the thoughts that keep churning over the past. Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of your health. Lucky colour: Lotus pink. Magic number: 33.

CANCER: Get all of your affairs in a better order. Avoid careless spending. This is not the time for delegating responsibility. Problems can be resolved without any major stress. Travel to different places and take up studies in a subject that inspire you. Tarot message: Be positive. Lucky colour: Peacock blue. Magic number: 36.

LEO: Good day for negotiating contracts. Seek publicity for business plans. Women: beware of deception. As the day progresses, things will be sorted out if you are willing to be honest. Tarot message: Do not be in a rush to spend extravagantly. Be Lucky colour: Silver grey. Magic number: 54.

VIRGO: Your card "The Magician" smiles on health. Useful day for discussing long-term plans. A telephone call or a friend gives pleasure in the evening. Some of you might be busy packing for a journey. Tarot message: Spend time meeting experienced people. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 37.

LIBRA: The Queen of Swords reveals that new love attractions are likely to be serious. Life at home is much easier to cope with. Businessmen: spend your spare time in the company of your loved ones. Tarot message: Be positive. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 56.

SCORPIO: A day of mixed luck. Students: expect extra pocket money. Any projects connected with study, travel and cultural pursuits will be satisfying. You have the ability to work hard. Tarot message: Don't try to end all the deadlocks at one go. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 25

SAGITTARIUS: Your expectations could cause a problem. Try not to depend on anybody else to help you achieve your goals right now. Legal matters could take an expected turn. Tarot message: Do not let trivial problems haunt you. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 28

CAPRICORN: A relative may behave in a rather unpredictable way. Set your priorities. Early morning surprises can turn into afternoon achievements. Just enjoy the food, the company and your environment. Tarot message: Capitalise on your strength and do not trust others. Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 32.

AQUARIUS: Put more effort into completing unfinished work. Your health could be worrying you a little, so it would be wise to see a health professional for the best treatment. Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health. Lucky colour: Cherry red. Magic number: 43.

PISCES: Emotionally you could be easily disturbed. This could be a time of sweeping changes. This is also a positive time for business partnerships. Emotional contact with a friend could be informative. Tarot message: Lack of persistence can be disastrous in business matters. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 47

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is June 15...

You have strong attachments to your home and family. You make for an excellent parent or teacher. Use your power of discretion when in love. Defer new projects and expenses. If you run from a situation- it will follow you in the worst possible way. You might find that you have a good luck next year. Be careful around machinery, heat, sharp objects and electricity between October to December. January to March 2013 is a good time to initiate repairs or renovation or even acquisition of property. September is not a favourable time for receiving long distance visitors. You would also do well to monitor your household spending.

Positive colours: White, sea green, cream, light blue and rose

Select days: Friday, Thursday & Tuesday

Favourable numbers: 5,6

Gems recommended: Diamond & Emerald

Charity on birthday: Donate wheat flour, jaggery and copper utensils to poor.

You share your birthday with Helen Hunt (full name Helen Elizabeth Hunt) who was born on June 15, 1963 in Los Angeles, California, USA. She is a famous American actress. She won American Comedy Awards and an Oscar.





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