Thread bare
Rihanna sent shock waves around the world with her see-through Swarovski dress. Was it a fashion faux pas or a bold statement? And where to draw the line when it comes to experimentation? Fashion pundits give their verdict
Ashima Batish

 Rihanna in Adam Selman’s creation So what was it-a fashion faux pas or a statement that will stay with fashion followers for a long, long time? Defining Rihanna's see-through, Swarovski laden, fish net dress by Adam Selman that she wore at the Council of Fashion Designers of America awards as experimental would be an understatement. It was sensational at best and scandalous at worst, yet it made the fashion industry across the world sit up, take notice, debate and discuss it endlessly.

Faux pas or not…. it remains a subjective term. Given the blurring boundaries between prêt and couture, casual and sportswear, summer and winter wear, men's and women's fashion, to demarcate fashion as right or wrong has become a complex exercise.

As Ritika of Gaurav and Ritika fashion designer duo says, "Experimental fashion is the way forward. When Lady Gaga wears an unusual outfit or Rihanna steps out in a nude dress, they predict the future of fashion." She doesn't count it as a fashion faux pas but a bold statement that would make fashion designers and celebrities experiment further with fashion. The only celebrity she blacklists from the list of fashion icons is Mallika Sherawat, "Because what she does is only to grab attention and not to make a fashion statement."

Mallika Sherawat And yet we see her year after year striving to make a fashion statement at the Cannes film festival. If there was ever a rule book on fashion, the festival would be the beginning chapter. It's the annual update on how the best of clothes can look out of place on the red carpet, how a clothes horse can fail to impress and how a written off celebrity can make a great comeback in the right clothes. "All you need to do to avoid a faux pas is to know your body type and wear clothes accordingly, what might suit one can look ridiculous on the other person," comes from Jyoti Sharma, a Delhi-based fashion designer. The second rule she lists is that the outfit must complement the occasion and the weather as well. The most beautiful lehenga, embellished with semi-precious stones and intricate work from a heavy weight of the fashion industry, can prove to be a disaster on a summer wedding. "Like you just can't wear the fashion's safest bet, little black dress, on a traditional function," she adds.

Getting fashion right or wrong depends on a lot of factors besides just the outfit in question. You can't ignore elements like make-up, shoes, accessories, hair-do…."In fact, we have seen celebrities making fashion blunders more with their make-up than their attire because that is something they don't pay equal attention to," says Rohit Verma, a fashion designer. An easy to follow tip, he gives is, wear the right silhouettes. "If your upper is flowing, wear a straight-line bottom that need not be necessarily fitted one. If the bottom is flared, cut down on the volume of the upper garment to avoid looking like a tent," he quips. He further suggests that loud make-up doesn't suit everyone and when in doubt, it's better to go for safe-subtle make-up.

In a country where the fashion industry itself is just 25 years young and where the clothes retail sector opened its gates to the international labels only after the liberalization policy in 1991, you can't expect people to invest it all in fashion, money or knowledge wise. "Getting fashion wrong is no crime. And there is no need to rush to learn fashion," says Vaishali S, who warns against following fashion blindly. She is confident that the next generation will define fashion trends in India. Where they might confidently sport blue Rihanna lipper!

ashima@tribunemail.com

Right choice

  • Never shy away from experimenting with fashion, but keep the occasion in mind
  • Consider silhouettes when you pick a garment. They must suit your body type. Body hugging clothes aren't for those who are heavier around the belly.
  • Wear loud make-up only at night. Wear it in the daytime only if you are confident it will suit you.
  • Your hair-do can make or mar your look. Pay as much attention to it as you give to your dress and make-up.
  • Never follow fashion blindly. And never forget that even those who swear by fashion get it wrong at times.

Sense & sensitivity
Punjabi film director Anurag Singh might be known for his hilarious Jatt & Juliet series but there is a serious side to him which will soon be revealed in his forthcoming project 1984 
Jasmine Singh

Kirron Kher with director Anurag Singh It was a feeling, an idea that he carried in his heart, and he made a conscious effort to store it in his mind. Punjabi filmmaker Anurag Singh remembers the assignment of his final year media arts class.

"It was a script on the '84 turmoil in Punjab. It was, however, a different story from the one I have written now," he says.

Years later, Anurag goes on to develop that same thought into a full-fledged film script, 1984, that releases all across the globe on June 27.

"This is a much more sensitive approach to the subject I touched long time back," he says. The film 1984 stars Kirron Kher and Diljit Dosanjh in 'not seen before' roles. But it is also an attempt completely new for the director. After making the rom-com Jatt & Juliet a brand, this is Anurag's first step into a territory that is sensitive, real and crucial. Careful with his research and knowledge in hand, Anurag recreates 1984.

1984…the subject falls in a totally different genre. What made you zero down on this subject?

As I have said before, this is a topic that has been in my mind for a long time. Even while I was doing other films, I had it in my mind and then eventually after a lot of research I finally developed it into a story, a film as you will see now.

Since the film is based on real life incidents, did you have to work much more than you did on your previous films?

I treat each film as my first film. 1984, of course, is a sensitive subject. I had to research extensively on it, which meant not only going through written documents, but also spending days meeting those affected families.

As a director did you take any creative liberty?

This is a sensitive topic and I could not twist and turn it according to my whims and fancies. Having said this, I want to add that this film has no political inclination or doesn't support any ideology; it is a sorry tale of events that affected many youngsters and families in Punjab.

Has this film changed you as a person and director?

Definitely. I have grown each day with this film. The stories those families had to share have left a deep impact on my heart and they will stay with me forever.

There is anything that you will take from this film?

The generosity of those families where we shot the film. I will take back all those tears, and those smiles.

Was Diljit Dosanjh and Kirron Kher your obvious choice?

I share a relationship with Diljit that goes beyond work. When I first narrated the story to him, he was in, right then and there. As for Kirron ji, I knew only she could do justice to that role. After I mailed her the story, I got a call from her that she was touched and would love to do the film.

Many other filmmakers are making films on the same subject?

I am so engrossed in my film that I didn't think about anything else. But yes, I am aware of this and all I can say is that the audience is sensitive and they will not accept anything that makes a mockery of the subject close to their lives.

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Of drizzle & dazzle
Gurvinder Singh

Dance, music and drizzle are an irresistible combo. Even though the monsoon is a month or so away from reaching the North, people are not letting the nature take its course and are revelling in their own rains and making the parties more fun.

"Such rain parties are absolutely wonderful," says Manisha, a student who can't stop smiling even though she is drenched from head to toe. "You get double the mazaa of enjoying the dance as well as the joy of rain," she adds. On top of that, it is an absolute bliss and the best way of beating the searing heat," she grins.

photos: himanshu mahajanA rain dance party organised at Lodhi Club recently saw people of all ages having fun. Ladies of the club say that it was one of the best ways to celebrate the summer. "Although I hate the summer, but this is the only season when you can truly enjoy a rain party. For the fun it provides in the form of rain dance parties, it's my thumbs up for the summer," says a lady from the club. "Come summer and we'll beat you with summer parties," she cheers.

"Although swimming in the summer is one of the best ways to beat the heat, summer rain party surpasses it all with dance, music, and the splashes of water," she says.

"Rains bring many reasons to cheer. But the rain parties are all the more fun," says Drishti, another youngster.

It is just like the fun during the Holi festival. "You don't want to get wet at first, but once you are drenched, it is time to get others to join in and dance to the tunes of music,” she says. Many say that rain parties rekindle their childhood joy. "I used to walk and play in the rain and had almost forgotten what a joy it was. But rain parties brought back the childlike fun. It is pure fun," giggles another lady singing Dancing in the Rain.

gyan zone
Beginning a stage
Amarjot Kaur

FUN TIME: Children enjoy at the theatre workshop The Department of Cultural Affairs UT, in association with Tagore Theatre Society, are holding a free of cost 20-day theatre workshops at seven centres across the city for children in the age group of 6 to 12.

"We have been organising these theatre workshops for the last three years. Initially, these workshops were only being held at the Tagore Theatre and the Community Centre of Sector 37 and 47. However, considering the growth in the participation, we have now organised this workshop across seven centres in the city," says Kuldeep Sharma, director, Tagore Theatre. While in the first two years the students were asked to pay Rs 500 for the refreshments, which were provided to them in the two-hour long daily workshops, now it is given free of cost.

"We requested the Municipal Corporation of the city to give us their community centres to organise these workshops, wherein the pass-outs from the Department of Indian Theatre teach them theatre games, voice training, types and functions of lights; mikes, changing room, light and sound equipment, cyclorama and movements on stage," says Kuldeep.

The theatre workshops took off on June 5 at the Tagore Theatre and Community Centres of Sectors 38, 21, 37, 28, 47 and Mani Majra. Also, soon after the workshop gets over, the students are asked to express their views about it through a painting or written words, which will be exhibited in the basement of the Tagore Theatre. Moreover, the seven groups will perform a 15-minute play each at 6.30 pm on June 26, an event which is open to the parents and guests as well.

amarjot@tribunemail.com

CELEB POINT
Being human
Divya Dutta

Once I took my mother to meet her friend, who is a doctor. The first thing she said to me was, "It's an honour that you've come here despite your busy schedule to meet me." She looked very obliged and I wondered why? Why an actor is considered different from others? Does the screen persona surround us all the time? When aunty got up to make tea, my mother said, "You sit; Divya will make good tea for us." I could feel aunty was not comfortable and replied, "No no, Divya won't make chai"! And I said, "Why not aunty, I would love to."

It took her half an hour to not be conscious of me and treat me like her kid. She later said, "I can't believe a celebrity can be so humble." I wondered why stars were synonymous with attitude! Is humility mostly mistaken for weakness?

If you are a celebrity who treats everyone with an attitude, there's an awe that is created, but if you are humble, people are surprised.

Throwing tantrums works, trust me! But that's so not me! I love to be myself like any other normal person. Catering to guests at home, greeting neighbours with warm smiles, helping elders…I love to do it all. A fan once asked, "Mam does your star power decrease because you are so normal? I replied, "I am not here for star power. I am here to prove myself with work. I don't like a fake attitude." That's my world and you are most welcome to knock at my door. Trust me - the door shall be opened by the actor with a warm smile!

(Dutta is a Bollywood actor)

Master Chef
Pink is the drink
Neelu Kaura

Coloured mocktails served at functions, especially at weddings, look very tempting but taste very sweet, which is why they are so difficult to consume. So why not try mocktails with fresh ingredients and that too with watermelon, which is available with lovely pink insides! Here's a recipe for a colourful healthy drink. 

Pink Lady Mocktail

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups watermelon (squeezed and chilled).
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice.
  • 1/2 tbsp castor sugar.
  • Scoops of vanilla ice-cream/strawberry ice-cream.
  • A few melon balls.

Method:

  • Chop watermelon and keep it in refrigerator.
  • Squeeze the water-melon and take out juice from it with the help of muslin cloth. Keep it in a refrigerator for 1-2 hours.
  • Add sugar, lemon juice and a scoop of ice-cream in the juice.
  • Pour this in a mixer and churn it after adding crushed ice.
  • Now add one scoop of ice-cream and churn it again.
  • Pour in glasses and put strawberry ice-cream on top. Serve chilled.

(Kaura is a Ludhiana-based culinary expert)

(As told to Poonam Bindra)

Romantic reality

The Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi, in collaboration with Alliance Française Le Corbusier de Chandigarh, is organising the screening of three films, of approximately 30 minutes duration each, directed by Alain Jaubert. The films, based on three European masters — Delacroix (1798-1863), Ingres (1780-1867) and Courbet (1819-18770) — will be screened on June 22 from 6.00 pm onwards at the Auditorium of Government Museum and Art Gallaery, Sector 10 C, Chandigarh. Entry is free.

Thanks to the latest techniques in video animation, the secrets of the paintings are revealed and discovering art becomes an enjoyable adventure. — TNS

star track
From Aarohi to Ayesha
Shraddha Kapoor is excited about her latest flick Ek Villain which marks her singing debut in Bollywood

Shraddha Kapoor Shraddha Kapoor is lively and down-to-earth. She greets everyone and apologises for interviews that were cancelled last week due to her ill health and some confusion. She has already won us over! The pretty actress talks about Ek Villain and more.

Birth of the villain

There is a lot of secrecy about the plot but I am loving the buzz. The music has done so well. This movie is different from what Siddharth, Mohit Suri, and I have done in the past. Mohit told me about this when he was writing it and one day he met me for a narration after Aashiqui 2 released. We sat on the floor as he likes that. I agreed to do the movie without even hearing the narration. I knew that it would be great and that he would make me work hard.

Vocal chord

Singing Galliyan just happened. Mohit has an amazing ear for music and he knew that I could sing as I had nagged him through Aashiqui 2 to let me sing. He asked me to just sing this female version one day and we recorded it the next day. I love the fact that it has become such a big hit. I have trained in music over the last few years. I can't compare the two albums of Aashiqui 2 and Ek Villain. The former is still popular and sounds fresh.

New addition

Mohit and I are very comfortable with each other as the two of us along with Aditya became great friends during Aashiqui 2. So, Siddharth Malhotra was the new guy. Of course, this film is very different for him too. He is one of the healthiest and disciplined people I know. I would eat so much junk on the sets but he would order healthy food and have green tea. I started following him a while later. He has a very unique sense of humour.

Being Ayesha

She is extremely lively and talkative to the point of being annoying. Aarohi from Aashiqui 2 was different as she was quiet and subdued. I even got to do my stunts on a harness and ride a Bullet.

Right choice

I was not nervous during the shooting of Aashiqui 2 because the film came out of nowhere and became a blockbuster. This time I have a lot of pressure on me for Ek Villain. I choose my scripts based on the director. I have Haider with Vishal Bhardwaj. I agreed to that film the minute I got it because it was Bhardwaj and I got to play Ophelia. I also grabbed ABCD 2 with both hands because I liked the first one.

Nathalia to make acting debut

The Brazilian actor of Indian origin Nathalia Kaur, who has only done item songs in two Hindi films (Department and Commando - A One Man Army), will make her first appearance as an actor in Bollywood. Nathalia was first seen as an item girl in Ram Gopal Verma's 2012 film Department. She will be seen opposite John Abraham in filmmaker Nishikant Kamat's next movie. Sources close to the maker tell us that John had liked Nathalia's past work (she had acted in South films) and that is why they cast her in the role. She will play a single mother in the film that is likely to be an action-drama. Confirming the news, Kamat says, 'We got Nathalia on board for the film.'

We have also come to know that the venture is apparently an official remake of a Hollywood film. The movie is likely to go on floors later this year.

No support for Preity

Preity Zinta, who has filed a case of molestation against her ex-beau Ness Wadia, didn't get much support from her friends in Bollywood. The case is getting uglier with the constant allegations and reactions. While Preity's fans are constantly supporting her, her film industry friends are tight-lipped on the issue. All three Khans, Salman, Shah Rukh and Saif are Preity's close friends, have opened about the issue.

At the launch of 'Kick' trailer, Salman Khan denied on commenting on the issue saying that this is not the right place to talk about. When the reporter explained that Preity is Salman's close friend and colleague, since they've worked together in numerous films, Salman repeated that she was at the wrong place. Then, he asked for the mike to be taken away from her. On the other hand Shah Rukh Khan at another event showed some concern towards the actress. He said, "It's a personal issue. It's an issue she has brought up and I assume it will be dealt legally. As a friend of hers, I will just talk to her."

Saif Ali Khan, who is Preity Zinta and Ness Wadia's mutual friend, also spoke out about the incident. "I am friends with both. I went to school with Ness and from what I know of him he is a gentleman. I am sad this has happened. I hope things are sorted out between them." He added, "Both are my friends. I want both of them to be happy." Let's hope that truth prevails.

Watch out for Ranbir!

Ranbir Kapoor has been asked to endorse a watch brand previously endorsed by a reigning star. The brand wants someone new and young. Ranbir has previously replaced this star in a cola brand.

Together dobaara

Ekta Kapoor and Milan Luthria will team up again after the failure of Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai Dobaara. It will most likely star Akshay Kumar.

Homeless Amit

Amit Sadh of Kai Po Che fame forgot to renew the lease on his flat and so he lost it. He is currently staying with a friend. He is busy shooting for Guddu Rangeela.

Grand launch

Kick's trailer was launched at a cineplex in Bandra, suburban Mumbai with the cast of the film. The line that has caught on is: Mere baare mein jyaada sochna mat, mein dil main aata hu, samajh main nahi."

Back from holiday

After the success of Holiday with Akshay Kumar and AR Murugadoss, Sonakshi Sinha will team up with the director again for a woman-centric action film. Akshay Kumar will have an extended cameo in the movie.

Mithoon’s tribute 

Not many know that the Banjaara track from Ek Villain is actually composer Mithoon's tribute to director Mohit Suri. Though in the film it has been picturised on Sidharth Malhotra and Shraddha Kapoor, the track is reflective of an important phase in Suri's life when he decided to give up his bachelor existence and marry his long-time girlfriend, actress Udita Goswami. Mithoon, who has known Mohit for long, is believed to have penned the lyrics keeping the latter's sentiments in mind.

Mohit smiles, "Long back I had told Mithoon that I wanted to go home. I was tired of leading a crazy, gypsy-like existence. I wanted to settle down. He wrote Banjaara for me. The phrase Banjaare Ko Ghar in the track depicts finding love, finding a home."

A visit to remember

Music composer AR Rahman visited veteran actor Dilip Kumar with his wife last weekend. He tweeted: "We went to pay respects to the vintage king and queen of romance... It was beautiful... May God bless them... Learnt a lot about true love and commitment... Received a signed copy of Dilip saab's book... Looks really deep... Planning to read it this month."

chatter box
More the drama

Qubool Hai fans can rejoice as there's a big twist planned in the show. Rehaan will be revealed as Tanveer's illegitimate son while audiences will learn that Aahil reveres his step-mother, as he thinks she covered up for him as he killed his dad and she took the punishment for it.

Bold take

Rishina Kandhari will soon be seen doing some daredevil stunts in Shapath —Supercops vs Supervillains. The episode, which is based on Ninja assassins, will see Rishina taking a 1000 ft leap over a cliff under the tutelage of Allan Amin.

Rishina says, "I am a fitness freak. The very idea of learning martial arts for fifteen days was excellent. Not everyone makes so much effort; it was great fun. I was game for it. I performed the stunts myself although under guidance."

Second innings

Gauri Pradhan Gauri Pradhan is back on TV with a brand new show Meri Aashiqui Tumse Hi and is glad to be working again. She is playing a mom on a show, which hasn't dampened her enthusiasm at all. She tells us about it and more.

Why did you choose this role?

It was the right time to come back. Although there were some other offers, things didn't work out. Balaji is like a second home and everything worked out. The hours, money, role...so I guess it was meant to happen.

Did you miss acting?

I did a bit, but then I also had so much on my plate that I never felt that I wasn't doing anything.

What is happening with Kyunki Part 2?

I am not sure. It looks difficult now with Smriti Irani becoming the HRD minister. But whenever it does happen, I will be in it. Although right now there is no clarity about it.

Tell us about the role.

I play Falguni, who is the mother of two girls. She is strong, practical and from a rich Gujarati family.

What kind of rapport do you have with Ekta?

We are friendly, but not the best of friends. We have a good working relationship. She convinced me to take up this project.

back again: Gauri Pradhan

For love’s sake

At the recent Gold awards, Mohit Malik bagged the best negative lead award and he thanked his wife Adittie for being such a big support in his life. The speech brought tears to her eyes.

Sonali on telly

Sonali Bendre Sonali Bendre will be seen on TV yet again. This time as a judge in Zee Tv's Cinestars Ki Khoj. On the show, the participants will be judged for their acting skills. Dhoom 3 director Vijay Krishna Acharya too has been signed.

Big B’s show

Amitabh Bachchan is going all out to promote his debut fiction show Yudh, which will be aired on Sony. He will be at Mumbai Stock Exchange to promote the show. He plays a corporate real estate giant, who is struggling with health issues.

Friendly ties

Veebha Anand, who rose to fame with her role as Suguna in Balika Vadhu, will now be seen in a new show called Friendship Baazi, which will be aired on MTV soon. She will star in it along with another girl Niti Taylor and this youth drama will be about coming-of-age of friends.

Taking it on

Buzz is that Kushal Tandon and Gauahar Khan were in Paris recently and there they got into an argument. This happened during a show of Moulin Rouge when a few guys on the next table were passing comments on some of the scantily clad girls. Gauahar objected to it when an argument broke out and soon Kushal too joined in.

Astro Turf
P. Khurrana

ARIES: The card 'The Devil' suggests that your relationship can be shaken and stirred. Start worrying about what can go wrong and problems will start to crop up. A temptation to overindulge might not be good. Tarot message: Don't forsake a new learning opportunity because of pride. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 56.

TAURUS: Follow a good routine of exercise and diet to make sure you're keeping up to the mark with health matters. Focus on the little thing that needs to be done and stick to routines. Tarot message: Plan your life better to avoid delays. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 27.

GEMINI: You can have accidents simply because you forget to look before you leap. Do be careful with your financial situation. Students: bury your nose in books. Be logical in your thoughts. Tarot message: Work can pose minor difficulties. Lucky colour: Rainbow-pastels. Magic number: 30.

CANCER: Flattery, charm and a willingness to be bold will bring success. You should have little trouble gaining from others. An evening event can test your nerves. Tarot message: Your determination to succeed will pay dividends. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 50.

LEO: This is a great day for socializing once you get going. You can get invited to a lavish event that makes you feel self-conscious. Don't worry about your clothes not being flashy enough. Tarot message: Learn to accept responsibility for yourself and others. Lucky colour: Silver-grey. Magic number: 44.

VIRGO: The card 'Ten of Pentacles' promises self-confidence, so trust your instincts today. Opportunities to socialize with all and sundry will put many choices in your path. Tarot message: Set events into motion. Lucky colour: Sea-green. Magic number: 35.

LIBRA: Your earning power can kick into high gear, so be on the lookout for money-making opportunities. An intimate connection with that special someone is worth pursuing no matter how difficult. Tarot message: Use your instinct to get into the top circle of power. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 46.

SCORPIO: A restless and irritable atmosphere can pervade in the morning. Avoid getting sidetracked or letting another person's bad mood sully your day. Follow through on unfinished projects. Tarot message: Don't dismiss the advice of youngsters. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 25.

SAGITTARIUS: Stick to your work and avoid new territory because this is not a day for making decisions. An imminent journey can put you in emotional turmoil but these are unfounded fears. Tarot message: Be articulate to prevent people from coming to their own conclusions. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 39.

CAPRICORN: An enthusiastic mood is encouraged by your card 'The World'. Nothing will seem too much and you are sure to help out those around you if you can. Do be careful not to over-commit yourself. Tarot message: Do not transact in uncertain matters. Lucky colour: Sky-blue. Magic number: 48.

AQUARIUS: Thoroughness will be your key to success. Studious persons will be preparing for an exam. Try to avoid getting caught up in conversations that divert you from your course. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Peacock-green. Magic number: 63.

PISCES: Conflict between your private and professional life can test your abilities. Strong views on politics or the environment might entice you to get up and speak at a public forum. Don't be shy. Tarot message: Emphasise on spiritual needs. Lucky colour: Metallic-grey. Magic number: 28.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is June 18...

Your birthday on the 18th day of the sixth month suggests that you are one who can work well with a group, but still remains someone who needs to maintain individual identity. The number 9 people have completed the Karmic circle and come off as people with loads of knowledge as well as experience. You are compassionate, tolerant, benevolent, charming and idealistic. Your biggest asset is your sense of humour but financial problems ruin your ability to think constructively.

Positive colours: Golden, Red, White.

Select days: Tuesday, Friday, Thursday.

Favourable numbers: 3, 6, 9.

Gems recommended: Red Coral, Yellow Sapphire.

Charity on birthday: Donate green vegetables to the needy.

You share your birthday with Daniel Futterman (June 18, 1967, Silver Spring, Maryland), who is an American Academy Award-nominated actor and screenwriter. He wrote the screenplay for the film Capote, for which he received an Academy Award nomination and an Independent Spirit Award, Boston Society of Film Critics Award, among others.





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