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On a clean slate
She sure is a beauty with a purpose. Femina Miss India 2014 Koyal Rana takes her crown rather seriously and is all for bringing a positive change for everyone around. On her maiden visit to Chandigarh to inaugurate Cleopatra Bridal Lounge and Skin Laser Institute, New Sunny Enclave, Kharar, the chirpy girl opens up on journey she is enjoying every bit of.
What are the first impressions of City Beautiful? It's beautiful and so are the people here. Everyone around here is jolly good. And, I had heard a lot about food here, so the first thing I did was to eat. Chana kulche were just awesome. I also had a pampering spa at Cleoptara. It's been a great visit and a memorable one. What does it mean to be Miss India to you? It's definitely has changed my life. I am getting to see new cities, meeting people, attending parties which I wouldn't have been able to otherwise. It also comes with a responsibility to represent women of India. What were the highs and lows of the journey till reaching the crown? It was pretty smooth for me. It started when I was 15; I participated in Miss Teen, won it and went on to represent India at the international competition in Chicago. I didn't win there but I was so impressed by the girls. They were socially so active and doing so much for various causes. I too wanted to do my bit. When I came back home I started a foundation called Moksha and we have working relentlessly since then. It's been sometime that we won the Miss World crown. How are you preparing for it? There are certain parameters that we are judged on. I am working individually on them, my ramp walk and diction. I am working out too. And I also carry on with the idea to create awareness about cleanliness. With my foundation we are distributing soaps in orphanages and schools in backward areas and raising awareness on how hygiene can help fight waterborne diseases. Are beauty pageants stepping stone to Bollywood for you too? As of now, I am focusing on Miss World. If an opportunity comes my way that I can't say no to, I may. And, who would be that irresistible actor/director? Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Karan Johar are my favourite directors. Among actors Ranbir Kapoor is just awesome. Who have been your ideals? Aishwarya Rai and Sushmita Sen. How Sen has stood up to all that she believes in to the way she walks, talks and lights up the entire room as she walks in. I am a huge fan of her. What's Koyal in person like? My father is in a government job, mum a homemaker. I did schooling from Saint Thomas in Delhi. I have a younger brother and sister. I am into adventure sports, love river rafting and rock climbing. How do you keep fit? I eat healthy. Gym regularly not to lose weight but to stay fit. I eat loads of fruits and vegetables and drink plenty of water. What are the future plans? Apart from Miss World contest, I really want to be an entrepreneur. I might start something of my own, something innovative that can help me to serve people. mona@tribunemail.com
Monsoon makeover
Cleopatra has 11 outlets in Punjab and still counting. Richa Aggarwal, the woman behind the chain, stays true to the one liner she quotes, "Features are gifted, beauty is achieved. Body is gifted but wellness and figure achieved." Cleopatra Lounge that was inaugurated by Miss India Koyal Rana offers a bridal lounge and technology advanced skin care treatments. Soon to open her next in Ludhiana, Richa, who gave a monsoon makeover to Koyal, shares, "We take pride in helping people achieve beauty and wellness." About make-up in monsoon, she says, "To tackle sweating due to humidity, base is important. Silicon base works well. Lighter make-up with natural touch and shine is what you need. Play more with eyes this season."
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Dreaming cinema
In his attempt to experiment with realism, Sudhir Mishra has taken the bludgeon against the entertainment formula on which the Bollywood industry thrives. In the creative capacity of a director and screenwriter, he defined the new cult in the parameters of commercial-cum-parallel cinema with award-winning films like Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi, Is Raat Ki Subah Nahin, and Yeh Woh Manzil To Nahin.
Yet, he maintains that the art of filmmaking is the act of arrogance (in terms of one's creative calibre) and humility (to the medium in which one works) and the only significant influence on creativity manifests in one's passion and love for the medium. At the Leisure Valley-10 where he was the chief guest for the inauguration of My Dream Academy on Sunday, he etches a vivid sketch of the changing face of Indian cinema in reference to his creations and others. He lights up a flame that smoulders the one end of his cigarette and puffs it up hastily, as if to fuel the racing thoughts in his mind, but the first of his complaints is the fine he had to pay for smoking in public. However, that's not the first on his list of concerns, so he carelessly smokes another puff and begins, "In my opinion, Indian cinema is evolving in many ways, the first of which is the technological aspect which accounts for the experience of viewing while the other attends to the deliberation of the medium. The coming years will witness more regional filmmakers making a different kind of cinema from their own regions and not Mumbai." Perhaps, his statement spells the concerns of acting schools too while he confesses that he takes master classes at the FTII. Meanwhile, he also maintains that acting is a full-fledged study of not just being on screen but understanding its different aspects, including directing and scripting. "I always improvise while shooting a film and though I never revisit the film once I make it. However, I would only want to tamper with the structure of Is Raat Ki Subah Nahin," he says. Young & rooted As he talks about the evolution of Indian cinema, he credits the young filmmakers for their more accommodating disposition that stems from practicality. "Anurag Kashyap worked with me as an assistant director and though he says that I am his inspiration, I think he inspires me in more than one way," he shares. Sudhir maintains that the new generation of actors are more open to collaborations, one of which he is also a part of. "I am directing one of the seven parts of the film, Sins, where I deal with envy and I think the younger lot of directors have tremendous potential," he smiles. Politically sound That most of his films fall in the genre of a thinking man's cinema, especially the political thrillers, he confesses that he takes much inspiration from his grandfather, who was the former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. "Not all political films are about politics, but I take much inspiration from the first hand accounts of politics that I was acquainted with by my grandfather," he says. Also, he expresses his concern over his next venture that is a political thriller after which he decides to shoot before Pehle Aap Janab, that will feature Amitabh Bachchan. Known for exploring the inward journey in the form of narration in most of his films, Sudhir advocates for his genre of realistic cinema while adding that a story finds him and it is expressed in his distinct understanding of the story.
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Crystal clear
As if bling on the eyes and lips weren't enough, we have a new fashion accessory on the block - face crystals. While Hollywood celebs have been wearing the Indian bindi to accentuate their boho-chic fashion statement for years - as purists continue to debate the traditional bindi's 'abuse' as yet another fashion accessory - it is the trend of swanky, colourful face crystals that seem to be doing the rounds.
Luxury French brand Givenchy's Paris Fashion Week 2013 (September) featured models with crystal faces, literally. Designer Pat McGrath decked up his runway models with face crystals, baring not even a single micro-inch of their face's skin. Hollywood celebrities Katy Perry, Venessa Hudgens, Selena Gomez, Rachel Brice and Shakira have flaunted the Indian bindi with crystals for years. It is, however, one of the infamous Kardashian sisters - Khloe - who extended her crystal, courtesy a selfie with friends last year. Closer home, brides and their repertoire prefer adorning this trend for post-wedding receptions, says Shivani Goyal, owner of Odara makeup studio, Chandigarh. "Since wedding makeup is usually conventional and engagement functions call for subtler looks, new brides prefer experimenting with face crystals for their receptions. And, the trend is fairly new, since girls have become bolder in their fashion sense of late," adds Shivani. So, is it gaudy? Not always. "You don't have to steer clear of using face crystals at the behest of looking gaudy. Just a couple of crystal stickers on the side of the eye to complete your cat-eye look can add that classy touch to your look. Girls these days also prefer using them on their eyelashes or eyelids," says Shivani. For those looking to replicate the celeb fashion statement, options are aplenty. Find face crystal stickers or crystal bindis on amazon.com, crystalbodytattoos.com, shopbeachcombers.com, or just drop by at the nearest Swarovski store and you might get lucky!
Skin deep
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Every obstacle a stepping stone
Punjabi film director Amitoj Mann has seen many debacles. But each time he has gone down, he has emerged stronger than before Jasmine Singh He is a sailor who takes his ship out when the wind is strong, mostly never favouring him, and the tides always too high! Invariably, his ship hits a rough surface and drowns. Miraculously, he is up again, repairs his sail; gets behind the wheel and out the ship out again into turbulent waters. For Punjabi film director Amitoj Mann, the sinking of his earlier projects has neither scared nor deterred him. He has never thought of going with the popular tide to be on the safer side. Seated along with the saccharine voice singer Harbhajan Mann, Amitoj only smiles on the mention of all his debacles. "What can I do? I only make films with my heart; I can't stop making them," shares the director, who with his lead actor Harbhajan and Sumeet Singh, managing director, Unisys Infosolutions, released the digital poster of his upcoming film, Gaddar The Traitor, in Chandigarh on Monday. Knowing where Amitoj comes from, this film would definitely not be the regular laughter riot. Dressed in a crisp blue pajama kurta, Amitoj is perturbed about one thing. "I often ask myself and people who approach me as to whether we are doing justice to the characters that we are portraying in Punjabi films? Are Punjabi films all about baley baley? We have so much to show, the real incidents that happened around us; the real sacrifices that martyrs made." There isn't much that Amitoj wants to talk about the film, but he definitely comes with a new genre. "It is not just a thriller; Gaddar is an emotional thriller, where you feel for the character. It is a film that the audience will take with them." Amitoj's recent film Haani was a different, entertaining film and he is hopeful about Gaddar as well. He lets a curve in the form of a smile appear on his face. "All my films have flopped, but what should I do! I feel that the saddest incidents make for a good subject always. I want to always say something that I have felt for." This might not always get good results on the box-office; Amitoj is, however, okay with it. No, he won't fall in the rut ever! "This isn't even situational laughter that we are seeing; I am okay with a laughter that comes from a film. At the same time, I feel we should be ready to bring in more to Punjabi cinema. A lot more needs to be discovered." He is undoubtedly one sailor who likes to bring his ship back to the anchor, only to set out again, this time to find Gaddar-the traitor! Man-o-Mann Birds of same feather flock together; the saying goes well for Amitoj and Harbhajan Mann. The singer-actor, like his director, has a flair for subjects that are different. Dressed immaculately in a formal suit coupled with two skin-deep dimples, Harbhajan is ready to talk about his project. "We made a lot of effort to bring Punjabi cinema where it is today; we faced a lot of hurdles so it can't be left like that only. I make a slight effort to do films that have content," he says, while calling Gaddar a film where his character is always living on the edge. Harbhajan, like Salman Khan, has launched many beauty queens in the Punjabi film industry. This time he is paired along with Miss India Australia. "She has done great work," adds the actor who moves to Karnal for the shooting of his next film. jasmine@tribunemail.com |
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Being different
He has a flair for love stories of a different kind; mostly it is a young boy falling in love with an elder girl. For some stories, he makes in the capacity of a producer, and some, in fact, an upcoming one, he would be directing. Mahendra Dhariwal, the producer of the upcoming film Monsoon Drops in at Chandigarh talking about his project, which of course is a love story.
Mahendra has produced films like Maa Tujhey Salaam, Nehley Pey Dehla and many more. "I like to make films on various subjects. Monsoon is a love story between a 17- year-old boy who is a Sikh and an elder married woman," he says. Monsoon is a Hindi film shot in the upper regions of Dalhousie. This, according to the producer is a middle budget film. "These days a producer cannot afford big stars in the film and also the subject of the film is far more important than the actors. I am making a big budget film with Sunny Deol, Preity Zinta and Arshad Warsi. I am also making a middle budget film," shares the producer, contradicting his own statement! As far as Monsoon is concerned, he might get it dubbed in Punjabi as well. "Since there is a Sikh boy in the film, I was thinking of getting it dubbed in Punjabi." From producing films to directing one, this money bag now wants to explore his creative side. "I am directing a film, Graduate, which is also a love story between a young boy and an elder woman. I am excited about the project."
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Putting — get the ball rolling
Jesse Grewal Good putting has three basic ingredients - to get the ball rolling as soon as it leaves the putter face, to start it on the intended line and have the correct speed. The ball could start rolling as soon as it leaves the putter or it could skid for the first few inches and in some cases it turns backwards or becomes airborne as it leaves the putter face. The skid, reverse rotation and being airborne like a chip are caused by backspin, which is due to either excessive loft on the putter at impact or a descending arc of the putting stroke. When a golfer tends to leave putts short of the hole the possibility of having backspin is the probable cause. A correctly hit putt should have top spin, which leads to the ball rolling as it leaves the face of the putter. Top spin is the result of two factors - a de-lofted putter face and an upward arc of the putting stroke. Most putters have 3-4 degrees of loft on them. Some could have more or less and the modern putters may have less than 3 degrees. The purpose of the loft is to get the ball out of its imprint in the grass on the green as the ball is sitting down in the grass and not on top of it. On very fast greens we could use a putter with lower loft.
At address we should have our hands forward so that the shaft of the putter leans slightly towards the hole(picture 1). Place a tee into the butt end of the grip. At address the tee should be closer to the lead arm (picture 2). During the backswing the wrists may cock very slightly bringing the tee closer to the lead arm (picture 3). There is nothing wrong with a little wrist action on the backswing as long as the shoulders are the dominant speed producers. The forward stroke should have no wrist action and the tee should remain closer to the lead arm throughout the stroke (picture 4). An incorrect stroke would have the trail hand exerting pressure or force, which flips the putter face upwards and increases the loft on the face at impact resulting in backspin. This incorrect action brings the tee closer to the trail arm (picture 5). The ball position and the position of the body in relation to the ball create the arc of the putting stroke. The centre of the body or sternum should be just behind the ball and the ball should be positioned just a little forward of centre to catch the ball on the upward arc of the putting stroke. This combined with a de-lofted putter face creates top spin leading to a correct roll of the ball on the green and more holed putts. (Grewal has coached several national champions and professionals apart from being coach of the Indian golf team for the Eisenhower Cup (World Cup) in 2008. He is currently the Director of National Golf Academy of India and CGA Hero Honda Golf Academy. If you have any queries get in touch with him at parexcellence@tribunemail.com) |
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In fashionable lanes
The purists from the fashion fraternity will nod their heads in unison to this one. Couture is not fashion. It is a celebration of aesthetics, imagination and inspiration. It is the endeavours of craftsmen and vision of designers all put together, and poured into fabrics as well as colours. Fashion Design Council of India proudly announces yet another edition of the upcoming India Couture Week 2014.
Even before the show schedule is out, it is speculation and who gets to play the closing and the opening designer are the obvious, introductory questions. Amidst the always-hyped opening and closing big shots, there are the promising names from the industry that run like Rina Dhaka, Anju Modi, Monisha Jaising, Varun Bahl, Rohit Bal, Manish Arora, Gaurav Gupta, and of course opening by Kolkata's fashion wonder Sabyasachi and Bollywood's poster boy Manish Malhotra. Thrown in are all the peripheral elements of glamour that are a regular at any fashion event. Think Bollywood, showstoppers and supermodels. Then there are the countless publicity props staged around the entire extravaganza. The six-day event starting on July 15 will see couturiers showcasing their collection not only through the runway but also fashion presentations, installations and previews. Apart from the ten shows or previews spread over the six-day fashion event, there will be one offsite and one outstation show. The closing show does not call it quits. The event has been extended by a day to include a show by Rimple and Harpreet Narula, and Sulakshna Couture. Then there is yet another closing show by a jewellery brand. There will be a couture collection in the form of installations by Anamika Khanna at Kolkata. (From July 15-20 at Taj Palace, New Delhi)
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Jungle lure
As Akshay Kumar’s special co-star hogs the limelight in Entertainment, we take a look at some Bollywood films that featured animals in important roles Akshay Kumar has a very special co-star in the upcoming film, Entertainment. No, we are not talking about Tamannaah Bhatia, with whom he is teaming up for the first time, but a huge Golden Retriever. The dog, which will be seen with the Khiladi throughout, has an important role in the film. This is not the first time an animal has been given so much importance in film. Bollywood has had a unique relationship with the four-legged creatures. From playing cupid to saving the hero/heroine's life, animals have gone beyond just being pets in cinema. Here's taking a look at some of the most memorable roles played by canines, pigeons, tigers and elephants. Haathi Mere Saathi: This Rajesh Khanna-Tanuja film had an elephant, Ramu, taking the centre-stage. Not only did he regale kids with his antics, Ramu clinched the climax scene too! A super duper hit, Ramu had a lion's share in the success of the film and the song Chal Chal Mere Saathi, dedicated to the haathi, remains evergreen. Teri Meherbaniyan: This was one film that had a dog not only playing the lead role, but taking over completely after the hero dies! Jackie Shroff and Poonam Dhillon starred in the film, but their characters get killed midway by the villain. Moti, Jackie's pet, who witnesses the killing, decides to avenge his master's death. Maine Pyaar Kiya: Kabutar Jaa Jaa... this song from Maine Pyaar Kiya has the heroine Bhagyashree pleading with the pigeon to deliver a love letter to Salman Khan. Here the pigeon not only played Cupid to the lovers but was instrumental in bringing about a happy ending! Hum Aapke Hai Koun: If not for Tuffy, the cute pomerian dog, Madhuri Dixit and Salman Khan would never have got married in Hum Aapke Hai Koun! Yes, the dog plays a crucial role in bringing the lovers together. The film was a blockbuster and Tuffy with his designer goggles and outfits a big hit! Nagina: The song Main Teri Dushman... mein nagin tu saphera, which had Sridevi doing a snake dance in Nagina is the highlight of the film. Based on the theme of iccha nagin, where the snake is believed to shape-shift into a human, the film had Sridevi playing one! A blockbuster, it was hailed for Sridevi's performance and even had a sequel Nigaahen with her reprising the naagin role. Himmatwala: Ajay Devgn was a real himmatwala in this film as he bare-handedly fought a tiger, no less! When the heroine Tamannaah Bhatia unleashes a tiger to teach him a lesson, Ajay not only fights him but ends up saving her from its claws. Life of Pi: Completely based on the relationship between a tiger Richard Parker and a young boy Pi, who are stranded on a boat in the ocean, it was the highest grossing film of director Ang Lee. The tiger made the entire journey on the sea real! |
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I’m prepared for the long struggle ahead: Armaan
He's young, comes from a strong film family and is looking forward to make them all proud. Armaan Jain, whose debut movie, Lekar Hum Deewana Dil, opened to mixed reviews, says he's geared for the road ahead in tinsel town.
"My film Lekar Hum Deewana Dil is out. For a whole year my co-star Deeksha and my director Arif Ali sir have been living, breathing and sleeping with the film. After the film, there was all the excitement of the release. And now, there is that feeling of emptiness, which I can't describe," said the 23-year-old, who's raring to go. Looking back at the experience of shooting his maiden film, Armaan said: "Lekar Hum Deewana Dil would always be very special for me. I learnt so much while shooting for it. I evolved not just as an actor, but also as a human being." He even said working on the film broadened his mind. "Like Imtiaz sir (director Arif Ali's brother), Arif sir loves the Indian heartland. I visited places where locals had never stepped out of their home, never travelled in a train. The film exposed me to an entirely new area of existence, and a different way of living," he said. Armaan realises being the scion of the Kapoor family is both a blessing and a burden. "But I am prepared for the long struggle ahead," said the sorted young actor, who is Reema Jain's son. The second film is always more crucial than the first. Armaan is looking at his post-debut prospects very carefully. He has a vast network of advisers in the distinguished Kapoor family. And lest we forget, Armaan is also related to the Bachchans. Abhishek Bachchan's sister Shweta is married to Armaan's mother's sister's son. "Yes, I am blessed with a family that knows show business in and out. I have my uncles and cousins for advice and of course Saif (Ali Khan) sir, who is part of the family. I also have Abhishek bhaiyya, who is always there to guide me, and Shah Rukh (Khan) sir who is a close family friend. How much more support can I get?" — IANS
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Nation theory
Ajay Devgn, whose new film Singham Returns is releasing on Independence Day, says the action entertainer is dedicated to the nation.
Directed by Rohit Shetty, the film is the sequel to the 2011 release Singham. Ajay reprises his role of Bajirao Singham. "Every year we celebrate Independence Day for the nation and Singham Returns is our tribute to the country," said the actor at the film's trailer launch. "If both common man and men in uniform would be like Singham, then the Independence Day celebrations will become more meaningful," he added. The action-drama also stars Kareena Kapoor and Amole Gupte. — IANS
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Fashion advice to Pitt
Bee Gees star Barry Gibb has warned Hollywood star Brad Pitt to trim his beard to prevent his looks from fading.
The 67-year-old music legend feels Pitt is damaging his facial muscles with his beard. "The beard pulls all your muscles down, so it's not so pretty if you shave. Every time I see Brad Pitt with that beard, I think 'better cut it before it is too late'," he said. Barry says he can speak on the after-effects of beards after sporting one for almost 40 years. --PTI
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Evelyn makes her singing debut!
The Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani actress, Evelyn Sharma is no stranger to the international entertainment scenario. After having started off as a model across the world, Evelyn made her debut in an American film before making her way into Bollywood.
Seems like this pretty lass is now all set again to make waves internationally, as she gears up for her debut as a singer! Unlike other Indian actors, Evelyn's song is not an Indie-Pop number; but a part of the alternative genre that is less commercial and more music. Always having been a shy singer, Evelyn was encouraged by her friends to consider singing commercially and it all came to place when she was approached by a renowned Indo-American rapper, Brooklyn Shanti, for his album. The song is called Something Beautiful. The album is slated for an August release and has been shot completely in New York. Evelyn says, "I am very excited, as singing is something I have always been passionate about. I would sing casually all the time but never imagined actually having to work on a collaboration for an international album. The whole experience of recording the song, shooting the music video was very exciting. Now I hope that when the song comes out in a few weeks people fall in love with it."
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Richa says no to sex comedy
Richa Chadha is a powerhouse of talent, who has established herself as one of the best actresses in the country owing it to just her acting abilities and versatility. Finally finding her groove in B-town, the actress is gearing up for the release of five of her films, some of which are much-awaited. And as the offers keep pouring in, there are certain ones that Richa is declining without any qualms. If sources are to be believed, there is a certain pattern, as recently Richa declined her third film offer that had Sunny Leone in it.
Quite a big project, it is said to be produced by Pritish Nandy and to be directed by Milap Zaveri titled Mastizaade, Richa wasn't keen on taking the project up because of its genre. After Ragini MMS 2, and Tina & Lolo, Richa has made it pretty evident this third time that she may be wary of Leone's ways. Commenting on this development, Richa said, "My team and I felt that I shouldn't be a part of a sex comedy at this point in time. I have all the respect for Sunny and the fact that this is the third project I have had to decline with Sunny in the star-cast is just a mere co-incidence".
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Salman’s blessings continues
Singer Palak Muchhal shares her excitement after completing a hat-trick with Salman Khan with Jumme Ki Raat and her association with the superstar.
Young and talented singer Palak Muchhal made her debut with Lapataa song in Ek Tha Tiger. She has lent her voice to a number of landmark songs like Chahu Main Ya Na and Meri Aashiqui from Aashiqui 2, Dhokhadhadi from R…Rajkumar and Photocopy in Jai Ho now has a reason to be happy. She has now completed her hat-trick with Salman khan. After singing songs like Lapataa and Photocopy, she has also given her voice to Jumme ki Raat from Kick along with Mika Singh. Commenting on her association with Salman Khan, Palak says "Salman sir is the one who introduced me to Bollywood, as he gave me my first break in his movie Ek Tha Tiger. From then on, there has been no turning back. Then, he got me to sing Photocopy in Jai Ho, and now Jumme Ki Raat in Kick. He keeps guiding me. If he would not have been there, I think my journey wouldn't have been so smooth. His blessings are always there in whatever I do."
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I miss PCD: Ashley
Singer Ashley Roberts misses the joy of performing as part of the Pussycat Dolls band.
The blonde beauty is excited about her solo work, but says she longs for rocking on stage with her girl bandmates. When asked if she misses her group, she said: "Yeah, I do. I miss the girls and our special moments and being on stage with them. But I'm really excited, my second single is coming up and it's called 'Woman Up'. So that's really exciting," Roberts said. The 32-year-old has moved from the US to Britain and says living in London has given her more inspiration. "I think coming over to Britain has made me more inspired," she added. —IANS
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Yummy mummies
With multiple leaps in TV shows, actresses today end up playing mom to actors their age and at times older. We take a look at some of the actresses who are currently playing moms though are young themselves and not looking old at all on screen
Class act She has been part of Uttaran since its inception, but after few leaps she ended up being mom to 24-year-old Sreejita De. Rashmi, who is only a few years older than her, has managed to do a fabulous job.
Strong character She played the lead in Woh Rehne Waali Mehlon Ki for five long years but post marriage she went on a hiatus, only to return after almost a three-year gap. In Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya, Reena plays Bhavna Khandelwal, mother of three. Reena feels the strong character, which has a mystery to it, was the reason she chose the role.
After the break Gauri made her comeback with Meri Ashiqui Tumse Hi and has no qualms about playing mom, as she feels she will look like herself. She took a break of over four years to take care of her twins.
Big challenge Post the leap, Amrapali aka Tanveer in Qubool Hai got to play not only the mother of the hero but also a blind character. That was a real challenge. |
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Rocking chemistry
Television is known to be a medium, which is still not that bold. But actor Mrunal Jain and Tina Dutta — co-actors in Uttaran — are in news for doing a sexy photo-shoot! The shoot was inspired by last year's blockbuster film Ramleela.
Talking more about that, Tina says, "When Mrunal came to me with the idea, I liked it. We met the photographer Amit Khanna after that and decided a day for the shoot. The entire concept caught my attention because of its bold nature, something which you don't expect from the television fraternity." Tina also adds how she and Mrunal remembered Ranveer and Deepika's awesome chemistry in the film. Tina adds, "In my career, Mrunal is my seventh co-actor. He is sweet and a good friend too. We share a great bonding and while working in Uttaran, I got a great friend in Mrunal." On the other hand, Mrunal, who is a Gujarati, watched Ramleela four times. "I loved everything about Ramleela. Whether it's the chemistry between Ranveer and Deepika or the song picturised on them...everything was too good." So how did the idea of a shoot come about? "Tina plays my onscreen wife. People have not seen her in this avatar. So when I discussed this with Amit Khanna, he also supported my idea. This is how the decision was taken. Convincing Tina was the easiest job in this world. When I told her, she agreed without getting into the details." Tina also restricted her diet as she felt Mrunal is just perfect for this kind of photo-shoot. So what is this rocking chemistry between them? Mrunal says, "Actually after seeing these pictures, I wonder what people will say. I can only say Tina is very professional when it comes to work and off screen we are good friends. She loves food, which my wife and mother cooks.”
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Neil’s a real-life hero
Actor Neil Bhatt, currently seen in Diya Aur Baati, was recently caught up in a fire that happened on the sets of the show. We hear that Neil was extremely brave in helping as many people as possible on the sets.
Recalling the incident, Neil said, "The AC that blasted was right outside my make-up room. Only three people were in their respective make-up rooms — Deepika, one other character artist and me. I was on the phone sitting on my chair and suddenly heard the blast at around 7:15 pm. I was almost thrown off my chair." He added, "Deepika shouted that the ceiling was falling. I was worried that it might fall on me, so I stayed in but then thought I might be stranded in the rubble so I ran out. The moment we got out of the set there was complete chaos and total blackout. I went towards the rear end of the set, where a lot of people had gathered near the vent of the AC. The real heroes of the set were the spot, light and setting department. The only thing I could do was to help the injured and put them in the ambulance that had already arrived. The next thing that I thought was important was to get the belongings of the people, so I went back inside the set. I collected the stuff of some of my co-actors. Finally, we also did a head count and everybody was safe except the two AC repair personnel. One of them is recovering fast from the burns."
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Astro Turf
ARIES: 'Six of wands' brings a gracious and aesthetic influence in your life. You are likely to face interruptions while trying to stay on schedule. Singles should be cautious about new relationships.
Tarot message: Don't reveal your plans. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 27.
TAURUS: You draw 'Two of wands' to invoke mental power
and intelligence to achieve professional goals. Work will be smooth sailing and your analysis of rent projects will be appreciated.
Tarot message: Prevent trouble by taking timely action. Lucky colour: Deep red.
Magic number: 35. GEMINI: Your creative abilities will be at their peak and your innovative ideas will gain recognition if you take care to present them properly. Romantic relationships can benefit from honest communication.
Tarot message: Don't reveal your plans. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 27. CANCER: 'The Ace of Pentacles' leads to actualisation of personal and professional plans. You may be restless and could be contemplating making changes to your routine. You could lose your temper. Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health.
Lucky colour: Jade. Magic number: 29. LEO: If you have spent time finalising the details of your projects, now is the time to take the initiative and implement your plans.
Tarot message: Make compromises outside and come to terms within yourself.
Lucky colour: Golden yellow. Magic number: 46. VIRGO: 'Two of wands' spins in speculation of luck. You may be in an irritable mood and could react aggressively when faced with dissenting views. Chance encounters could lead to interesting opportunities.
Tarot message: Take one step at a time. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 55. LIBRA: You draw 'The Ace of Wands', which puts you through a touching and transforming personal experience. Caring conversation and heart-to-heart talks flow easily.
Tarot message: Do not sway from the course you have charted. Lucky
colour: Sea green. Magic number: 26. SCORPIO: 'The Priestess' infuses pure and exalted influences in your life. Applying for a dream job? You might just get in with your track record and qualifications. Networking could lead to new opportunities. Tarot message: Do not expect too much.
Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 52. SAGITTARIUS: 'The Wheel of Fortune' spins in emotional abundance. You may be unable to concentrate on your tasks at work. Indecision about a particular situation may preoccupy your thoughts. Tarot message: Lack of confidence can leave you in losses.
Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 43. CAPRICORN: You card 'The Strength' gives you self-esteem and a good feeling about yourself today. Work will be smooth-sailing and your ability to get things done will be appreciated by colleagues.
Tarot message: Don't make hasty decisions. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 41. AQUARIUS: Do not to let public opinion go against you. You will be enthusiastic about developments at work, but take the time to listen to colleagues, as they can help you fine-tune your plans.
Tarot message: Accomplish tasks that take up time. Lucky colour: Bottle green.
Magic number: 32. PISCES: The card of 'The Magician' brings a day of change and mutation, whether you want it or not. You may be feeling irritable and restless and could lose your temper very fast.
Tarot message: You will receive a useful tip at the stock exchange. Lucky
colour: Yellow. Magic number: 44
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The Year Ahead
If your birthday is July 15...
A boss will appreciate your frankness and form decisions about you, causing some envy amongst colleagues. An unstable period due to your negative opinion of those in your midst - this could lead to friction with your beloved. Mounting expenses may force you to save money. Much analysis is required on the personal front. Pay attention to health, as there are possibilities of back pain. You may have to overcome tough situations on the career front. Be more flexible and helpful to a superior's request. Be timely in order to avoid your duties. You'll be able to rekindle your feelings and passion for your beloved and will be sweet and gentle towards him or her. Evaluate every single aspect of the situation. Good year for some recreation and entertainment. Those born after 1970 will have to revise their set of values in the area of business and welfare. Avoid risky activities, because it's possible to have an accident. You may be tempted to dig up some old issues, but why waste your time going over the past when the present is so full of promise. Positive colours: White, sea green, cream, light blue and rose Select days: Friday, Thursday and Tuesday Favourable numbers: 5, 6 Gems recommended: Diamond and emerald Charity on birthday: Donate saffron coloured edible items to the needy or any religious place/langar/community kitchen.
You share your birthday with Sulbha Arya [July 15], who started her career on Doordarshan with Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi and went on to do Filmi Chakkar, Hip Hip Hurray, Lifeline, Hum Pardesi Ho Gaye, Piya Ka Ghar, Khel Khel Main, Arzoo, Yes Boss, Kal Ho Na Ho, et al. According to her stars, she will remain active in both films and TV.
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