The Tribune, Chandigarh, India - The Tribune Lifestyle

	An Oriental affair The Golden Dragon Food Festival at The Taj brings the best of cuisine from Hong Kong to Chandigarh Ashima S Batish To explain the first two words of the Golden Dragon Food Festival, it is a menu tossed with the most popular dishes from Hong Kong. Although what is served on the plate looks so Chinese, at best Oriental, the chef at Black Lotus, The Taj, informs the palate only borrows influences from the Chinese cuisine. The Hong Kong cuisine has its own identity, which also boasts of a stamp of British cuisine, owing to the history of the city-state. The first example of the same is listed at the third spot on the menu, Truffle Edammame dumpling, which uses the very British ingredient, Truffle, to make the signature oriental appetiser - the dumpling. "The other not-so-apparent differences are that the cuisine is less spicy than the Chinese counterpart and the dumplings are sheerer," says the chef. The menu readied for the festival is quite comprehensive. It begins with the range of starters, followed by the main course, further divided into sub-heads of vegetarian, non-vegetarian, lamb, pork, poultry, duck and a combination of meals. Only the dessert section is slim. However, presenting an elaborate menu (a three-page menu just for the festival is pretty lengthy) is one thing and how the food tastes another. Beginning with the starters, which are served once we are done with the main course, they are a mix of average and better-than-average food! The pumpkin dumplings, as promised by the chef, are translucent and are a pleasant change from those with conventional stuffing of chicken or mushrooms. The crispy fried fish is succulent but it gives us a hint of the slack service - it is never served with fresh chilli soya, as is mentioned in the menu. The crunchy broccoli and cauliflower wild pepper tastes as good as the salt and pepper dishes you have been having anywhere in the city. Coming to the main course, fish is the winning dish on the menu. Cooked with mushrooms, tofu and soya, it's tender and fresh. The asparagus and broccoli cooked in golden garlic sauce is an equivalent for fish for vegetarians. You can also spot use of new ingredients, quite unheard of according to city standards. Water chestnut being the first and white fungus mushroom the other. There is also a three flavored vegetable hakka noodles and one can't actually spell the difference between them and the usual hakka noodles, only the former are a little high on spice. But as we said, service is an issue, desserts never made it to the table, despite the order placed well on time. Not a sweet note to end on! (On till June 29)
	green thumb Bite into the delicious litchi satish narula It's my favourite…litchi time! I am lured by the very sight of the fruit that is red with blush. But for God's sake, don't make the blush the colour of 'blood' seeing some of the reports in daily vernaculars where the death of a few children have been associated with litchi. Consider these news items as too premature and so far unfounded. Remember, a few months back flu had wrongly been associated with 'New Delhi'. It immensely affected our tourism. Litchi, rightly justifying its meaning as 'gift for loyal life', is a rich source of nutrients that suit the body during summer months. It is a rich source of vitamin C and consumption of even 8 to 10 fruits meets your body's one day requirement. Vitamin C gives strength to the body against diseases. Besides, litchi is an excellent source of copper, phosphorus (strengthens brittle bones) and potassium that are good for heart (normalises blood pressure and heart rate), and brain! Unlike many of the plant-based fruit and foods, the litchi is cholesterol free and is low in saturated fat as well as sodium. Litchi fruit is known to have flavonoids and other anti-cancer cell proliferation chemicals. These have impressive anti-breast cancer properties. Litchi has abundance of oligonol that is excellent anti-oxidant and prevents anti-influenza virus actions. Encephalopathy is explained by medical science as a brain fever caused by various kinds of virus, bacteria, fungi, toxic chemicals; condition of liver, brain, anoxia (short oxygen supply) or even excessive consumption of alcohol. There are more than 25 types of encephalopathy caused by similar number of mosquito species. Had this been understood, the litchi would not been associated 'exclusively' with this condition. At least the reporting could have waited till the laboratory reports were received and implication confirmed. It's like passing the verdict before the trial. Knowingly or unknowingly, such reports damage a flourishing industry. A reference in literature is found to associate hypoglycemia in undernourished children, but that is from a chemical extracted from the litchi seed. However, much needs to be done to pass the verdict on the fruit. Studies also suggest the involvement of bats that appear at the time of litchi harvesting to damage the fruit. But then it is also associated with mosquitoes that suck on bat blood, the carrier of many viral and bacterial diseases. Can we associate the disease with bats or paddy that is grown in water that supports mosquito life? Bats are known to damage guava and 'ber' too. Litchi cannot be isolated on this count. Reports in press also claim that it is being intentionally done by vested interests. If so, I would advise those doing so to take a fill of litchi fruit as it is an excellent source to cure heartburns and acidity! Do not fear this delicious, juicy, full of nutrition and glossy fleshed fruit. I take a fill of about half a kg fruit everyday besides a pick from the basket every now and then! (Narula is a Chandigarh-based horticulturist and landscapist)
	Hope sustains life A short film Ek Asha was released in Chandigarh on Friday. The film has been produced by Life Imaginers, written and directed by Shyam Juneja, and presented by Aashray, a NGO in Panchkula. The story of the film Ek Asha is about children begging. The lead character, Babloo, is a beggar whose father had left him when he was very young. His mother wanted Babloo to study, but the poor conditions of the family compel Babloo to become a beggar to earn their livelihood. One day while begging, he sees that the purse of a businessman has fallen out without his knowledge. Babloo picks it up and returns it to him. Seeing his honesty, the businessman offers to help Babloo with his studies by bearing all his expenses. Babloo is hesitant, but agrees to his offer. He is admitted to a school where he proves his brilliance and is made monitor of the class. After completing his graduation, he prepares for IAS examinations and tops the list. —TNS
	Master Chef Terrific Tofu Ranjan Dibya Tofu is the latest food that is grabbing attention because of its nutritive value and versatility, especially due to the Chinese cuisine, but somehow we in the north of the country are addicted to our cottage cheese — the wonderful paneer! Here is a recipe that will make you like Tofu and leave you asking for more. Steamed Tofu with Lemon Chilli Dressing Ingredients: 150 gm Tofu 10 gm Garlic, thinly sliced 5 gm Red Chilli, thinly sliced Half of lime, thinly sliced 1 Lemongrass stalk, beaten Coriander spring, for garnish Dressing: 2tsp lime juice 2tsp sugar 2tsp light soya 10 gm garlic, finely chopped 10 gm red chillies, finely chopped 10 gm coriander stalks, finely chopped Method: Make a bed of beaten lemongrass on a platter. Cut the Tofu into 2 cm thickness and then cut in the centre in the shape of a triangle. Place the Tofu pieces on the lemon grass bed. Sprinkle the garlic and red chillies on top of the Tofu and lime slices arranged after each tofu piece. Pour little of the dressing on the tofu and steam for five minutes. Serve hot with the remaining dressing garnished with coriander sprig. (Dibya is an executive chef) — As told to Poonam Bindra
	TROUBLE SHOOTER Instil confidence Simmi Waraich My 24-year-old daughter has self-esteem issues. Lately, she has become very conscious of her diet. What can I do to increase her self-confidence? Anita Khanna, Chandigarh Firstly, this may be just a passing phase. So instead of losing your cool, try and get involved. Ask her what diet she is following and what are the benefits she hopes to achieve. Get some diet charts for her, which are used by prominent people and are healthy. Make healthy food choices yourself and walk or exercise regularly. Be a role model for your own child. Make your daughter media literate. Watch television with her and discuss things. Don't raise her just to agree to people. Encourage her to speak up. Compliment her. Encourage her participation in different activities. Good self-esteem comes when one is given an audience, when one is allowed to speak their views out and make their own decisions. Many parents discuss whether we should be talking to girls about oral contraceptives as they are scared that with more and more boys as well as girls in relationships, unprotected sex may occur and be harmful. Is it okay to discuss such issues with girls? Kamalpreet Kaur, Patiala. Not only girls, it's useful to discuss such issues with boys too. After all, we are raising children as responsible citizens. One can discuss such issues through some incident that one may have heard of or some news in the papers or just tell the child that you wish to talk. One cannot just turn a blind eye and pretend it is not happening. It is useful to ask what they think about it. Of course, it helps if one has a good relationship. Discuss how oral contraceptives are available and a gynaecologist can be consulted. Also talk to boys about the use of condoms. Talk about how abstinence is something you and the family would strongly prefer, but that you feel it is important for the teenager to know everything so they can make an informed choice. Be open if they talk about boyfriends or girlfriends instead of teasing them or they may not talk to you anymore. (Waraich is a Chandigarh-based psychiatrist)
	STAR TRACK Nothing negative about Arjan This is your first negative role. What made you accept it? The whole idea of doing this one was to do something different. After playing positive roles in the past, I am bored of playing the good guy. I want to play different characters, so I thought this character would be nice to explore. Tell us about your character. I play a guy who is self-made. He is an orphan who has made it on his own. He is somebody who works very hard and everybody fears him, except Vidya Balan. He is always at loggerheads with Vidya. He tries to obstruct her path. He is also emotional and soft-hearted. He is someone you love to hate and hate to love. How was it working with Vidya Balan? This is our second film together but it's the first time when we will be seen together in the same frame. We did Mani Ratnam's film long back but we didn't have any scenes together. But finally, we got to share screen space in Bobby Jasoos. Regardless of her success and fame, Vidya is still the same. She is more like a friend to me than a co-star. It was great working with her and hopefully we will work again. Many television stars are opting for TV shows. Have you consciously stayed away from the medium? I know that television is a mass medium and it has a great following but it doesn't really interest me much. I can't do the same role in a daily soap for years. I'm a versatile actor who loves to explore. Having said that, I would love to host a show or judge. But so far, nothing of that sort has come my way. What's next for you? I am doing two films. One is a gangster- based film in Canada, it will be shot abroad. It isn't like regular Mumbai gangster movies so I'm looking forward to it. Other one is a love story which will be directed by an Indian-Canadian director. You've also signed a Punjabi film titled Himmat Singh? Yes, it is a cop drama with high action. The role really interested me. Fortunately, I did not have to train much as I am a black belt in Taekwondo. I have also choreographed the action scenes myself.
	When Richa Chadda was detained Richa Chadda was recently detained at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi on her way back to Mumbai. She was detained by airport officials for carrying suspicious powdery substance in her baggage. She was questioned for nearly two hours. A source says, "Richa wanted to meet her family and cater to a work commitment in Delhi last week. She has been following an Ayurvedic beauty and skin care routine. Instead of taking tablets, she prefers talc; on this trip too, she had carried the same in her bag." She has been interrogated by customs officials at the Delhi airport. "The officials thought that the beauty powder was a suspicious item. After a grueling session, where the actress was questioned for over two hours, Richa was allowed to fly out. This incident has shocked the actress as she didn't think she'd face any trouble due to the powder." Confirming the same, Richa Chadda said in a statement: "I am a big believer in Ayurveda and was recently carrying my Ayurvedic supplements to Mumbai. However, the security found the powders suspicious. I didn't want them to confiscate my Ayurvedic things because they are tough to procure… and are made for me personally by the ved." "I had to literally convince them for two hours that it's nothing wrong or suspicious at all. I know they are doing their job and hence I was more than willing to co-operate. Thankfully I didn't miss my flight," she added. High pressure Jacqueline Fernandez is honoured to be compared to Zeenat Aman by Salman Khan but the biggest compliment that she could ever get has also put a lot of pressure on her and she has very high standards to live up to now. Meeting point Katrina Kaif and Rekha will attend workshops for Fitoor shortly to prepare for their roles and they will get to know each other before the filming begins in September. They are so different from each other.
	Amit teams up with Navy band While film-maker Anurag Kashyap's Bombay Velvet, starring Ranbir Kapoor and Anushka Sharma, has already been hugely anticipated at it has been shot in a specially constructed studio in Sri Lanka, there's another interesting development with regards to the project. A feather to the cap has been added, as music of the film will also have the essence of the island country as music composer Amit Trivedi has decided to record a song with the Sri Lanka Navy Band. A source close to development says, "Amit wanted to record a track with live orchestra, and since they were shooting in Sri Lanka, he decided to include the Sri Lanka Navy Band. It was an impromptu decision to add this number to the album as most of the songs were already recorded." Anurag Kashyap and the production team of the movie have tried relentlessly to get permission from the authorities, and they were glad that they were Amit Trivedi permitted to record with the band a few days ago. Apparently, Amit will use the opportunity to the maximum by recording more than just a song. He will be travelling to Sri Lanka later in July to record the song. In fact, he will also dub some parts of the background score with the band. Bombay Velvet is will release in theatres on November 28.
	For a cup of tea! Vidya Balan, who will be seen playing the role of a detective in her next Bobby Jasoos, is currently covering an extensive promotion leg for the film. We now hear that Vidya, who will be visiting Baroda, Gujarat for the promotions has decided to also visit the tea stall which sold free tea during elections in support of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Modi started his journey from a tea stall years ago and has now reached the greatest of heights. So during marketing meetings, Vidya shared how she is keen to visit this particular tea stall which had become the talk of the town throughout the election campaign. Vidya will be visiting the stall to have a cup of tea. She has also said recently that she would like to do jasoosi on Narendra Modi and Amitabh Bachchan. Vidya Balan confirms the news and adds, "When the team told me that we are going to Baroda, my immediate reaction was I would like to go the stall. It has become one of the most popular destinations in Baroda." The versatile actress, Vidya Balan, who never ceases to surprise audiences, will be seen in 12 different looks in Bobby Jasoos.
	Fitness freak Bipasha Basu takes her fitness icon tag very seriously. She inspired her hairstylist to work out and eat right. She encourages her mother to go for a jog every morning and her sister to work out. Support system Karisma Kapoor and her children were present on the sets and recording of Comedy Nights with Kapil featuring Armaan Jain. She was there to support her cousin. How sweet is that! The show, on the other hand, has got some bad publicity as audience members have complained about inhuman conditions that they have to undergo. The lucky few The new song titled Lucky Tu, Lucky Me from Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania is now on air. It is sung by Anushka Manchanda and Benny Dayal and shows Varun's Humpty trying to impress Alia's Kavya. Spanish holiday Neha Dhupia is enjoying her holiday in Spain and she has taken bags full of designer wear as she has posted pictures dressed in fancy clothes on her social media pages.
	chatter box Adaa turns positive! Adaa Khan, who was last seen in a major negative lead role in Amrit Manthan, is all set for a new show on an upcoming channel. She was also seen in shows like Savdhan India, Yeh Hai Aashiqui, Encounter and Fear Files. However, a source reveals that she was waiting for the right role. A source reveals, "In Behenein she had played a positive role but Amrit Manthan was completely a negative role. It's the kind of role she wanted. The role is of a Gujarati girl." Says Adaa Khan, "Yes I am doing a new show. I play a positive character. I can't disclose anything beyond that." In the game Recently, there was buzz about Ram Kapoor quitting his TV show Bade Acche Laggte Hain but as the reports about the show going off air have been doing the rounds since months, this seemed like a surprising decision. Now fresh news is that Ram, who is busy with his movies, will continue to shoot for the show for a few days in a month like he had been doing in the past.
	Undetected move The sets of Sony TV's Entertainment Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega (EKLKBK) came under the scrutiny of a certain jasoos! Now before you get those detective minds running, here's the scoop. The upcoming episode of EKLKBK will see the beautiful and talented actress Vidya Balan making an appearance to promote her upcoming movie Bobby Jasoos. Accompanying her will be the stunning producer of the movie Dia Mirza. A little jasoos of ours from the sets informed us that Vidya who is known for completely immersing herself into her character, shocked everyone when she came dressed as a boy and participated as a contestant. Oblivious of the truth, judges Anu and Farah couldn't recognise Vidya until she revealed her true identity. The pagalpanti reached new heights as Vidya entertained the audience with her shayari. That's not all! Vidya and Dia were seen having a gala time as they were left amazed by the showcase of talent on the show. They even shook a leg with the contestants on their movie songs.
	Right in the act Newcomer Radhika Madan is thrilled to have bagged a serial and it is none other than Ekta Kapoor's show. In an exclusive chat, she tells us more. How did you get this offer? Ekta (Kapoor) mam spotted me at the musical Jhumroo in Kingdom of Dreams in Delhi. I was performing there. I have taken training in dance for five years. I wanted to be a choreographer, but acting happened to me! How did you get interested in dance? My parents enrolled me into a dance class as a kid and soon I started enjoying it. I have learnt Jazz, Modern Ballet, Hip hop. I thought I would train more in New York and then try my luck in a reality show. I wanted to make a career in choreography and as a dancer, but now things have taken a turn and here I am acting. So how is acting in a show working out for you? I feel elated yet anxious at the same time to be making my television debut with Meri Aashiqui Tum Se Hi under the expert guidance of Ekta Kapoor and the Colors creative team. My character Ishaani is the perfect Indian girl who believes in love and all the good things in life and I am working really hard to get into the mould of her character. The experience of shooting for the show has been incredible so far and I hope that audiences support me. What kind of preparation was needed for this role? I had to get rid of the Punjabi accent that I have as Ishani is from a Gujarati family. I watch my co-actors who are experienced and even ask for advice when needed. — TNS
	Bad times Drasthi Dhami has been replaced on Jhalak Dikhlaa Jaa. She is sad that her stint ended abruptly on the reality show. She was brought on board after her victory last season. This has been a shock for her fans who have taken to twitter to support her. Enjoying the break Rati Pandey is enjoying her break from work. She was last seen in Zee TV's Hitler Didi, but is not rushing back to the small screen. Not often seen at events, she was recently spotted at the launch of a new show Baawre. She had come to wish the makers. Screen presence Suchitra Pillai who is looking fabulous and acting brilliantly as the mother-in-law in Beintehaa has now signed up for a Hollywood film. She will play a 70-year-old housekeeper in the horror flick The Other Side Of The Door. The film has been directed by British director Johannes Roberts.
	Astro Turf P. Khurrana ARIES: You will be focused and alert. Working with colleagues and gaining their support will lead to faster progress on assignments. Don't make impulsive decisions regarding your finances. Tarot message: Don't accept situations you dislike. Lucky colour: Blue. Magic number: 63. TAURUS: Avoid new debt or excess spending. Loved ones will not fully understand your daily needs. Tonight rest and pamper your body. Minor muscle- aches can be troublesome. Tarot message: Take thing one at a time. Lucky colour: Sea-green. Magic number: 48. GEMINI: Do not overlook a chance meeting that may lead to future romance. Kick old habits and adopt a healthier lifestyle with more time for meditation as well as relaxation. Tarot message: Polish your public relation skills. Lucky colour: Mauve. Magic number: 43. CANCER: You are likely to find an ideal partner. Be bold to speak out what is in your mind. Professional success is likely. Delays can be expected today. A happy surprise awaits you. Tarot message: Beware of depleting your energy or resources on others. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 38. LEO: You will be able to enjoy interaction with people who share your views and thoughts. Your ability to communicate effectively will help you to enhance your reputation. Today loved ones will be more demanding. Tarot message: Arrogance will not be rewarded. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 55. VIRGO: You find ways to express your creativity and emotion. Your personal interests are likely to be stagnant. This should be a pleasantly sociable day. A Taurean person supports you through a difficult time. Tarot message: At work, a setback would be followed by a rapid advance. Lucky colour: Burgundy. Magic number: 49. LIBRA: Today a long cherished dream will come true. Do not try any shortcuts as they can misfire. Be understanding and keep in mind the likes as well as dislikes of your partner. Tarot message: Do not refuse offers without seeking advice. Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 29. SCORPIO: Youngsters should be capable of entertaining themselves and be happiest if left to their own pleasures. Don't be unnerved. Provide support and maintain a cheerful attitude. Tarot message: A dissatisfactory phase will need gentle handling. Lucky colour: Sky-blue. Magic number: 44. SAGITTARIUS: Inception of new business venture is just on the cards. Minor jealousies are best addressed in the moment. Tensions will be easily forgotten. You tend to be lazy and laid-back today. Tarot message: Feel free to change your mind. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 37. CAPRICORN: A close friend needs delicate advice concerning strained relationships or unexpected emotional triangles. Past disappointments and old memories will now provide valuable social wisdom. Tarot message: Don't insist on leading a fast life. Lucky colour: Maroon. Magic number: 54. AQUARIUS: This is a good time for enjoyment with the family. Tonight, review financial records for forgotten payments. The pressure and stress of the past days can take a toll on your health. Tarot message: Trust your heart and intuition. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 61. PISCES: Expect loved ones to propose new forms of entertainment or ask for greater involvement in your daily life. This is an excellent time to adopt new routines and foster friendships. Tarot message: Do not get tied down by any promises. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 46.
	The year ahead Madan Gupta Spatu If your birthday is June 22... You are capable of handling largescale undertakings, assuming great responsibility and working long hours. The number 4 is trustworthy, hard-working and helpful. They are ruled by Uranus (Rahu). This year, innovative ideas will generate money and professionally you will be successful. You are likely to get higher designation or a hike in your current salary. If you are in any creative field, this year will bring you much more success and recognition. However, health-related problems can cause discomfort. You should look twice at investment schemes that are presented to you. Do not let your relatives and friends manage your finances. Those born in or after 1980 will have new energy in projects they wish to undertake. Sudden financial gains will change your fate. Positive colours: All blue shades. Select days: Saturday. Favourable numbers: 2, 4, 8. Gems recommended: Gomed, Cat's Eye, Tiger Stone. Charity on birthday: Donate eatables at the marriage of a poor girl. You share your birthday with Anubhav Sinha (June 22, 1965, Allahabad), who is known for the film Cash (2007). His film Tathastu was highly acclaimed. Anubhav will do better behind the camera in 2015.