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Punjabi screen, changing contours?
A tweet from Bollywood filmmaker on the sensitivity of Punjabi film Punjab 1984 made all and sundry in Pollywood, and even those who have been watching it from a distance, think as well as talk about it. Punjab 1984, a film that captures a mother-son relationship in the turbulent times of 1984 tweaked the thought process of filmmakers and actors, who feel they have laughed enough and it is time to get down to business!
A few films in the recent past, including Nabar, Sikander and Jatt James Bond, have already tried to bring some changes in the existing laugh-a-riot format. The question that the industry is toying with is whether it is time to get over with comedies and experiment with fresh subjects. Scratch & win In the beginning of 2014, a much-awaited film starring Roshan Prince, Kirpaan, turned out to be an utter disaster. Even though the film came with a different subject, audiences dismissed it outright. Recently, a film that looked like a grab from many Bollywood films, Mundeyan Ton Bach key Rahi, starring Roshan Prince and Jassi Gill, met with the same fate. This one too came with a promise of being different. Director Manduip Singh, who directed Just U& Me, and is now ready with his next project Punjabiyan Da King, totally supports Pollywood experimenting with new subjects, "How long will we go on watching comedy?" The answer probably lies only with the audiences who have often got back to them, time and again. "The reason behind many good films with a different subject not doing well is that these have not been presented well. Only if the entire team can put together an idea, the film will become a success." Talking about a 'fair' execution, Amitoj Mann is one filmmaker who has always given something new through his films. Hawaayian, Hashar, Haani and now his new film that will release shortly, Gaddar- The Traitor, are indeed different. "I admit that all my films have been a flop, but I cannot fall in the rut. As a director my sensibilities don't allow me to tell a story that I am not convinced about. Also, I am not bothered about the business part of it." Sound of money Sikander, Nabar, or for that matter Kirpaan, or even a Romeo Ranjha represent different genres; none of them being a comedy for sure and so none of them created any noise on the box office. Does the word 'different' scare the Punjabi filmmakers then? At the end of the day, everyone likes the smell of money! Director Anurag Singh, who has changed the ball-game in Punjabi films, has never made a conscious effort to make comedy. "To me the subject is important; 1984 was an idea that not many producers were ready to buy. Everyone wants to secure their film; they can't take the risk of doing something that is not a comedy and repent later." And then there are producers like Manmord Sidhu and Poonam Pawar, who have supported films that others wouldn't touch. "This is a wrong conception that producers are not ready for subjects other than comedy. A director has to convince us and we are ready to buy," they echo. They, however, wouldn't talk much about the business part of it. Out of the 10 non-comedies, only one has a fair chance of doing well! Actors ready Although the audiences haven't accepted many non-comedies, there are films like Nav Bajwa-starrer Fateh or Dakssh Ajit-starrer Arsho that have done fairly well at the box-office. "It is too early to say that we need to experiment with subjects since Punjabi filmmakers have had a problem of going with the tide. They go after one subject and don't sit still till they have destroyed it completely. Punjab 1984 is a one-off example, but if in the coming times we see more such movies doing well, then it sure is a verdict," Manmord and Poonam share. So, we just wait and watch till another non-comic episode shakes our sensibilities and makes some noise at the box-office! jasmine@tribunemail.com
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An assault on creative freedom
Theatre has always stood for showing the mirror to society. However, over the weekend, the cancellation of Dharamraj.com, a play by Sangeeta Gupta at Tagore Theatre, Chandigarh has theatre fraternity up in arms. They speak their mind…
— Atamjit, playwright and theatre director It’s shameful
— Sangeeta Gupta, theatre director Where’s the freedom?
— Neelam Man Singh
Chowdhry, Theatre director Not acceptable
— Sahib Singh, playwright and director mona@tribunemail.com
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Living life Bigg size
Shweta Tiwari won all the hearts and the title of Big Boss 4. Nothing changed in her life after the reality show, but the perception of people has. "Earlier, people who used to know me as an actor, started calling me beti and felt closer to me," says Shweta. She looks a picture of grace as she flashes her smile.
Dressed in a cream-maroon Indian suit, Shweta says whatever is shown on television, is what actually happens on the show. But living with the inmates teaches you many things. "One of the things I learnt there was that family is more important than anything else," says the actor. "We often tend to snub family members and don't give them enough time, but we go out of the way to show respect to others. Family is a huge support system," says the actor. She has a young daughter and a caring husband. Shweta says she married her husband Abhinav Kohli, whom she met on the sets of a television show, for his caring nature and his honesty. "He is very honest. He keeps his cool, is never in tension and is always smiling," she says. Abhinav is a Punjabi, who hails from Jalandhar. She says that she is enamoured with Punjab and loves coming to the state. "The people here are so warm, welcoming and hospitable," she says. Although she is not a foodie, but still never misses out on dal makhni and saag whenever she comes to Punjab. "Although I avoid having 'kali daal' whenever I am out, but I can't resist the scrumptious tastes of Punjab's food and flavours, which is unmatched," she says. Tight-lipped about her forthcoming television show, she says she is not doing any Bollywood movies, as of now.
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Monsoon munchies
Comfort food Take it from a chef who proved her mettle on national television — MasterChef India (Season 1) - and is now up to writing her first book, Back Home, Jyoti Arora. "Blame it on heavenly pairings or just tradition, but every state in India has one or the other particular monsoon food item," says Jyoti. "Rajasthan has Ghewar, Bengal has Balushai and Malpua; Punjabis used to have Messu (a mish-mash of Khajoor and Balushai), Gujarat has Chandrakala (Gujia), and now we Punjabis have Pooda and Kheer. There's nothing like an indulgent homely dessert to go with gossip and family during the monsoon," says Jyoti, almost reminiscent. For those of you looking to indulge this season, Jyoti Arora has shared with us a relatively healthy monsoon recipe. Gur De Gunae
Method: Make syrup with gur and water. Let it cool down. Now, put 50 ml oil in wheat flour and mix properly till it resembles bread crumbs. Add aniseed and kneed into a stiff dough with gur syrup. Heat oil in a wok (moderate-low temperature). Take small balls of the dough and roll it into a thick roti. Deep fry the roti in oil till it turns golden-brown and crisp. Serve only after it has cooled down. Expert speak Monsoon, for most of us, is incomplete without these indulgences. These, however, might sound the alarm for health aficionados. Fret not; we have an expert telling you how to go about tackling your monsoon cravings. "First and foremost, during monsoon, keep yourself hydrated at all times, as you lose a lot of essential minerals while sweating through the day," says Dr Madhu Arora, RD, chief dietician, GMCH 32, Chandigarh. She adds, "The biggest enemies of hydration in our everyday lives are chai and coffee. Not only do they add unnecessary calories to our diet - with sugar and milk - they also deplete our system of water. If you have to have tea or coffee, reduce your daily intake by half. The best option, however, is green tea with honey."
Immunity boosters
It's no secret that monsoon also breeds bacteria. Remember mom's warning against eating out during rains? Well, there's science behind that logic. But, avoiding eating-out isn't enough. Our bodies naturally become more susceptible to diseases and infections during this season. So, unless you want to call in sick at work every other day, here's some expert advice: "While fresh fruit juices from the market should be avoided at all costs, aamla juice is the way to go. Rich in vitamin C, aamla shields us from all sorts of infections that lead to cough and cold. For breakfast, opt for watermelon - it's 95% water and very high on
fibre. For dinner, go for homemade vegetable soups - they'll keep you healthy and hydrated while keeping you away from cold and flu. And the best snack for the monsoon? Our friendly neighborhood
'bhutta' (roasted corn) - it's very rich in antioxidants and fibre, and satiates your
crunchy-masala cravings with just the simple addition of lemon and chaat
masala," suggests Dr Arora. A little indulgence, though, never hurt anyone. Choose your
battles wisely!
somya@tribunemail.com
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Sauve & sporty
Being a celeb husband is a hard job, yet Raj Kundra is doing well. A British citizen, Raj had a successful business before Shilpa Shetty breezed into his life and offered a new lease of life. Well, there is a lot more to this suave man, all endearing except that smack of richness, including a best-seller. In Chandigarh on Monday to launch yet another tempting scheme by Satyug Gold, Raj all occupied about his son's first day at school, talks about life, business and, of course, his wife.
Learning experience I am a British citizen, who is totally Indian now. My father is from Ludhiana and mother from Delhi. When growing up in England, our friends went to Disneyland and we were packed off to India in the heat of June. We would face a tough time due to the weather, but learnt a lot. College drop-out I am a college drop-out. My father gave me six months to take a call. I was to join a family restaurant business or start something of my own. I backpacked to Nepal and started my first business of Pashmina shawls. I have delved into a lot more since then. I was into precious metals business based in Dubai, but now my wife wouldn't leave India. And I wouldn't leave her. Personal note I met Shilpa just after she had won Big Brother. My friend wanted her to be the face of his perfume brand and I knew her agent. "Maine socha dono ka bhala ho jayega, mera hi bhala ho gaya." Shilpa had come with her mother. I was swept by her simplicity. Life's never been the same. I was a hundred and five kilos at that time, pure fat; running after her has made me shed not only a few kilos but also muscles have replaced most of the fat. Viaan has made me totally a home person. We are not really page 3 people, but love spending time at home. Helping hand I have an inherent love for all sports. I love playing football; have invested in cricket, Super Fight League (SFL). Through SFL, I have rehabilitated boxers and wrestlers who were fighting on roads without proper nutrition as well as facilities. They have got a fresh lease of life. Karan Johar has asked for our fighters for his film Warrior. Priceless words Gold retail is our baby. Shilpa loves to design and feels that gold should be made affordable for everyone. Her latest range, which will hit the shelves this Friday, has ninety plus pieces from Rs 1,500 to Rs two lakh. Film production is her passion. We have learnt a lot from our very first dabba film Dishkiyaoon. As for acting, it is not for me. As it is, what leading stars earn for one film today I make in a month, so I wonder whether producers can afford me! Write manner My debut novel How Not to Make Money published by Random House made it to top 10 bestsellers. It's been bought by a reputed Hollywood producer to be turned into a film. There's more to come. Mera Gold Plan launched by Satyug Pvt Ltd gives you the option of buying gold at as less as Rs 1,000 a month. With gold kitties banned, this tempting offer lets you buy gold online, DD or cash and redeem it when you please. Backed by IDBI and Brinks, as safe-keepers of your gold, Raj Kundra claims to have no hidden cost and a transparent system. mona@tribunemail.com
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Go-getter Amarjot Kaur One has known progressiveness to induce a change that is relevant for evolution and acts as a catalyst for success. Perhaps, that validates its rarity and makes it unique. In our quest to celebrate the achievements of Paramveer Singh Bajwa, a 16-year-old Chandigarh lad who represented India in the Junior Davis Cup, we accidentally discover a rare characteristic-progressiveness. A student at DAV Model School, Sector 15, Paramveer is an exceptionally brilliant tennis player and has several trophies in his kitty, which he has won at competitions organised by the All-India Tennis Association, Asian Tennis Federation, and School Games Federation of India. "My father would make me play all games when I was a child, but I took to tennis because it is an individual sport," begins Paramveer. Motivational factor "My father has been a constant source of motivation, even though most of the parents think that sports is an extra-curricular activity. My father told to me that Federer was a normal person; so if he can play tennis even I can," says Paramveer who idolises both Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. "Roger Federer is my idol, but I love Nadal's attitude," he smiles. He also credits his success to the motivation he received from his coach, Guruvinder Sahota. "When I lose a match to someone, I cannot rest till I win; so that too is a source of motivation to me." Feathers in the cap Besides representing India in the Junior Davis Cup, where Paramveer won four out of five matches, he won Boys Under-16 National series held at Mumbai this year by All- India Tennis Association. "I have also been the quarter-finalist and semi-finalist for ITF Junior Singles and doubles that were held in Mumbai last year." Paramveer has played as many as 50 matches in the under-14 and under-16 categories and has won 20 of them while in others, he bagged the runners-up trophies. Flipside of being an achiever "There are not many flipsides, but one tends to miss out on studies. Even when we are travelling, we only go and play the match; come back to the hotel, recover and rest while the entire friend circle keeps thinking of what a blessed life it would be to travel the world for free," he laughs. "Also, we have to get up early in the morning and practice while everybody else enjoys their sleep." Words of wisdom "The best way to keep winning is to never get satisfied and harbour the hunger for more. Also, it's important to improve yourself and think progressively." amarjot@tribunemail.com
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She’s got the look!
The beauty of the world of style today is that everybody wants to try his or her best. No longer do we depend on inherited beauty, which is the reason why many smart ones are garnering second glances. Simran Kalra, a student of design at the Pearl Academy, is one among them. Your sense of style Suitability to the occasion and choice of colours is what decides the style quotient for me. Latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories Two bags — a Pink Ferrari and a white Tommy Hilfiger. Brand crazy or street pick-up Since I am my own designer, I only pick up what suits me. Who is your style icon? Deepika Padukone. Who do you think is the worst dressed celebrity? Rakhi Sawant. Which look would you prefer - sporty, chic or glamorous? Chic. One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension All are good as long as these last. Your take on accessories My only important accessories are stilettos If given a choice, you would like to be dressed by which designer? Manish Malhotra. What gives you a high on the confidence level? Appreciation for my work and compliments from friends. (As told to Poonam Bindra)
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star track The peppy song Fashion Khatam Mujh Par is set against the backdrop of a small town wedding. Sung by Sajid-Wajid, the track has been choreographed by Remo D'Souza. As for Malaika in the track she is seen wearing a bright coloured ghagra-choli designed by Rick Roy. Dolly Ki Doli is produced by Arbaaz Khan and features Sonam Kapoor in the lead along with Rajkummar Rao and Pulkit Samrat. Directed by Abhishek Dogra the film is slated to release February 6.
Alia’s first love
Alia Bhatt, who has confirmed she has signed Vikas Bahl's Shaandar for a role with Shahid Kapoor, says she's a fan of the actor, whom she first fell in love with when she was all of 11.
"I'm a huge Shahid Kapoor fan. I must have been 11-year-old when I went to see Shahid in Ishq Vishk at Gaiety-Galaxy (in Mumbai). I've been a fan since then. He is a fabulous actor and from what I hear, a very supportive co-star," Alia said. Shahid is a generation removed from most of the co-stars Alia has worked with so far. Gently, she corrects that by saying: "You forget I've done Highway with Randeep Hooda. But yes, that apart, I've so far worked with actors my own age. So there was a natural comfort level with them. "But it's not like Shahid is any different from Varun Dhawan, Arjun Kapoor or Sidharth Malhotra. He is a very chilled-out guy. He has been around for so many years. I am sure he's a thorough professional. And I am really looking forward to working with him." The actress, who was recently seen in Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania, admits there is plenty on the plate. But she isn't allowed to speak about them all as yet. She is, however, excited about Shaandar. "I'm very excited. I loved his (Vikas Bahl's) Queen. And, I am really looking forward to what he does in the film with me," said the Highway actress. Shaandar is to be shot in an undisclosed part of England later this year. Bahl's last film, the much-lauded Queen had been shot in Paris, one of Alia's favourite cities where she got a chance to holiday recently. "I am very excited about this film. It's something I haven't done so far. I want to work with every major actor," she said. — IANS
What do Amit and Aamir share in common?
Well no, it's not a film, but a coach! There might still be time for Amit Sadh to get an opportunity to work with Aamir Khan who he looks up to, but for now, he is happy that he got a chance to be trained under Khan's acting coach— Prakash Bharadwaj. Not to forget, the actor has been a student of The Lee Strasberg Theatre And Film Institute, but when he got the chance to train under the master, for his dialect and acting Amit happily obliged. Amit's upcoming roles in his films require him to pick up a variety of dialects and his characters too are far different from one another, hence Amit has got Prakash on board to guide him and help him with his performances.
The first film they have worked together on is Guddu Rangeela. The actor is having a great time having acting lessons from the master himself. "I see him as my mentor," expressed an over-enthusiastic
Sadh.
Be proud of your curves: Huma
Bollywood actress Huma Qureshi, who walked the ramp as showstopper for designer-duo Rimple and Harpreet Narula on the last day, says that Indian women are blessed with "naturally beautiful curves" and they should not feel embarrassed about it.
Asked about how much pressure she faces every day as an actress to look slim and prefect, the voluptuous beauty said, "It's not just actresses but even the normal girl constantly tries to fit into the particular idea of beauty. They face the entire pressure of marriage madness where everyone tries to look prettier and forget what they actually are. "I agree that one should be fit and take care of one's body as there is no excuse to be unfit. But I feel that Indian women are naturally blessed with beautiful curves. Just because somebody has said that you need to be perfect, one should not kill herself to achieve that. Be proud of your curves." Huma also said that one should not try to modify their body just because someone else doesn't like the way you are. "Don't be embarrassed about your body. Yes, as an actress, if I have to play a model or wear something where I need to be super toned, I would obviously love to work towards that but that is the part of my job. But my real life is mine and this is how I look. So don't be apologetic about how you look," she said. The actress also recalled her childhood memories when she used to get teased by her schoolmates because of her body weight. "I was quite a chubby kid so I used to get teased by schoolmates because of my body weight," said Huma. The Gangs of Wasseypur fame actress looked like a true diva when she walked the ramp for Rimple and Harpreet in dull gold lehanga with antique zari detailing and a tulle trail. She completed the look with minimal jewellery and hair wide open. The designer duo presented a collection titled The Eternal Wanderlust, inspired by nomads and wanderers who used to abound in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (in Pakistan), the Thar and Sahara deserts, ancient Persia and Syria. The duo used hand crafted textures created by intricate fabric manipulation and crocheting, monogrammed coins, weaves of delicate tulles and gossamer silks. Also, there were tessellations inspired by Islamic Art that were juxtaposed with fine hand embroideries to veritably breathe life onto the surfaces of each ensemble. The silhouettes comprised of capes and robes, sheer billowy jackets and regal cloaks. Sharing her experience of walking on ramp for the designer-duo, Huma said, "I have done a shoot with them and I really like their bridal work. It's interesting to walk for them. Also since the fashion week was happening in Delhi so I thought why not. I always look for excuses to come back to Delhi." Also, spotted at the show was cricketer Virendra Sehwag accompanied by wife Aarti. — IANS
A glittering affair
While Chitrangada started the show in black voluminous Gauri and Nainika gown accessorising it well with statement neckpiece, Bipasha looked no less than a bride in designer Rohit Bal lehanga and matching jewellery. "Whenever I wear an Indian outfit, I make sure of accessorising it well with jewellery and today I am feeling like a queen. I started my career as a model and it's great to come back to Delhi again and walk on ramp. It was such a great welcome that I felt emotional, an excited Bipasha shared after the show. As the actress was looking no less than a bride, it was obvious for her to get bombarded with questions on wedding. Asked that whether she would like to adorn the similar heavy pieces on her wedding day, she said: "I would love to look like a Bengali bride and I don't mind if I get the chance to wear such beautiful looking pieces. After all, every bride wants to look her best on the most special day of her life." Chitrangada, on the other hand, took her inspiration from the famous Hollywood actress Marilyn Monroe when she walked down the ramp dancing and smiling. "Yes I tried to replicate her but it is not easy. Doing Marilyn is not easy for anyone. She was someone who has inspired many but I tried to give my best," she said. One of the highpoint of the show was live singing by Kamaal Khan who sung tracks including Afrin , Ishq Sufiana and Mein Tenu Samjhawan. — IANS
All praise for Punjab 1984
Bollywood actor Anupam Kher is so impressed with director Anurag Singh's Punjab 1984, a Punjabi film focusing on the ill effects of 1984-86 Punjab insurgency on social life, that he says it is worth going to the Oscars.
Starring Punjabi singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh, Pavan Malhotra and Kirron Kher, the film came out June 27 and has earned rave reviews from all quarters. Praising the film, Anupam tweeted: "Anurag Singh's Punjab-1984 is outstanding cinema. It is film worthy of going to Oscars. Take a bow the entire team.:)" Anupam also praised his actor-politician wife Kirron's performance in the movie. "Diljeet is BRILLIANT, so is Pawan Malhotra. Everyone is superb. But d Soul of d film is @KirronKherBJP.:)#Punjab1984," he wrote. — IANS
Poshter perfect
Life has come a full circle for Shreyas Talpade, who is all geared up for his upcoming release Poshter Boyz. Shreyas, who had earlier starred in Farah Khan's Om Shanti Om, had approached his friend Farah to do a special guest
appearance and she immediately agreed to be a part of it.
When Shreyas met the multi-talented director-actor on her set to explain the scene to her, she suggested that they shoot it right then and there. All agreed and DOP Mahesh Limaye who was shooting an ad-film with Farah at the
time readily agreed to helm the camera. Shreyas called the shot which was a single take. While Shreyas was leaving the set, his associate producer Hadi Abrar nudged
him saying 'Did you realize that you just directed Farah?' The shot, with Farah's impromptu improvisations, turned out to be good and has added great value to the film, prompting her to prod Shreyas to seriously look at direction in the future, as well. A visibly elated Shreyas thanked Farah for taking time out of her busy schedule to shoot for Poshter Boyz. Produced under Shreyas' own banner Affluence Movies Private Limited Poshter Boyz is all set to hit the silver screen on August 1.
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chatter box
Mona Wasu, who is seen in Amitabh Bachchan's debut fiction on TV, Yudh, is excited to be a part of the show. She returns to TV after Parichay; here she talks about her experience with Bachchan and more... How was the experience of working on Yudh? It was great, especially as I got to work with Amit ji and Anurag sir. Also, the character that I am portraying in this show is not like anything I have played before. What can you tell us about your character? I play a character called Mona, who is the head of media relations of Shanti Constructions, a company owned by Amit ji's character. She is independent and feisty. It's interesting to see how her personal life gets entangled with professional issues. How she has to make certain choices, which might not always be right. Yudh is one of the few shows to have finite episodes. What do you think of the concept on Indian TV? I love it and I am keeping my fingers crossed; I think it will be a good change for our audiences. I hope the show clicks with the audiences. How was the experience with Mr Bachchan? It was amazing and I am happy I got a chance to work with him. He's got a good sense of humour and amazing presence. He gives a lot of importance to rehearsals and works hard with the team. That way it was beautiful.
It’s Ramzan time for Nissar Khan
Actor Nissar Khan, who plays the warrior Drona in Swastik productions' Mahabharat, is having a tough time on the sets at Umargaun. Nissar, who also plays the investigative officer in popular series Crime Patrol, fasts during Ramzan.
He says, "Every year, I find myself in a tough situation during Ramzan, as I have difficult scenes to shoot. I am shooting in Umargaun now for Mahabharat and I stay in a hotel where I don't get any kind of food early morning when I do Sehri. So, every night I keep something in my room and I eat that next morning, but then the roti becomes so thick that you can hardly chew it. Even after Iftaar in the evening, I don't get proper food in the hotel, as it is not dinner time." Nissar adds, "The shooting schedule for Mahabharat is extremely tiring and tough, as the Kurukheshtra sequence is going on and I have to hop and jump a lot, and then, a few times, I am on a harness; when you jump and fall on the ground, you can hurt yourself. During Ramzan, you don't drink water and that exhausts you. I am extremely happy to be a part of Swastik, because they take good care of me; I don't face any problems. And when my cast and crew know that I am fasting, they take extra care of me."
High on aspirations
The good-looking Vishal Karwal is back on TV. After doing shows like Bhagyavidhata, Dwarkadheesh and Bigg Boss Season 6, he will now be seen in Rangrasiya. Vishal talks to us about the show and his character...
Tell us about your character? I play a negative role of a military officer who is driven by revenge. He wants to kill Paro, as he believes she was the reason behind his brother's death. He is sweet in front of everyone, but has murderous intentions. Why did you choose to do
the show? I had not done TV for a long time, as I was busy shooting for my movie, 1920. I took it up because of producer Saurabh Tiwari, whom I have known since a while and I respect him. He is also into film production and has promised me a role in his next. Are you worried about doing a negative role? Not at all; I love experimenting. I have done varied roles in the past and I feel it's essential to do new things. You haven't done TV in a long time. Why? I was busy with my debut film, which is produced by Vikram Bhatt. We wrapped up the shoot recently. What else are you working on? I am enjoying doing films. I have another Punjabi film, Saanbh Laage Aape, in my kitty. My focus now is mainly on films.
Nisha...replaces Mahabharat on Star Plus
Star Plus' magnum opus, Mahabharat, is now coming to an end. Due to the show's increasing popularity, the channel had increased the number of episodes of the limited series. But now, finally the show is being replaced by Nisha Aur Uske Cousins, another show high on
family drama.
Although Mahabharat's followers are heartbroken that the epic saga is ending, they have something equally gripping to look forward to. Nisha Aur Uske Cousins is about seven cousins — Kirti, Dolly, Suketu, Jwala, Bunty, Umesh and the protagonist, Nisha. All the
characters have different traits and an individual personality, yet the bond of belonging to one family and having each other's back always keeps them together. The show brings the difficulty of living in joint families to the fore. Watch Nisha Aur Uske Cousins soon on Star Plus.
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Astro turf
ARIES: Relationships will be in the limelight today. There will be some conflicts due to stubbornness. Work hard to retain the integrity, sacredness and respect in your relationship.
Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 25.
TAURUS: Focus on your budget and planning a long-term savings strategy today. Don't let the monotony of work get to you;
there will be some interesting tasks later in the evening. Tarot message: Play your cards close to your chest.
Lucky colour: Red. Magic Number: 42. GEMINI: Love and romance will be the highlight today. The situation at home will be peaceful. In certain relationships, you will need to be extra- patient and not form hasty opinions.
Tarot message: Take no chances despite the assurance of people. Lucky
colour: Yellow. Magic number: 52. CANCER: "The queen of cups" says communication will continue to be vital today. There
will be some delays and postponements, especially, before the middle of the day.
Tarot message: Don't reveal your plan of action to anyone. Lucky colour: Royal-blue.
Magic number: 29. LEO: Work and professional endeavours will be the highlight today. Have faith in your abilities and everything will be possible. Relationships will deepen and become stronger.
Tarot message: Be creative to retain grip over your business. Lucky
colour: Crimson. Magic number: 33. VIRGO: Many of you can form new relationships and associations that will benefit you, personally and professionally. There can be some windfall towards the end of the day.
Tarot message: A positive attitude heals old wounds. Lucky colour: Yellow.
Magic number: 65.
LIBRA: Lovers, friends and partners will be quite aggressive and demanding, wanting to
know your whereabouts and the reasons for your behaviour. However, things will not be unpleasant. Tarot message: Plan your life better.
Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 60. SCORPIO: Your mental, physical and emotional
states will be in equilibrium and endow you with a sense of peace. Your confidence will be on a high.
Tarot message: Strive for perfection at work. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 36. SAGITTARIUS: There will be an increase in the flow of money. Emotions will be particularly sensitive and you can get hurt or angry a little too quickly.
Tarot message: Be sure of involving yourself as much as possible in a new project.
Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 50 CAPRICORN: The time is just right to put everything in perspective. Splurging should be avoided. Be on the guard against legal hassles. Housewives will be under a lot of pressure due to extra workload. Tarot message: Do not leave things to chance.
Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 57. AQUARIUS: There will be a flow of ideas, communication and emotions today. Therefore you will be able to come closer to your spouse or partner as well as other family members.
Tarot message: Don't be too certain about obtaining a clearance. Lucky colour: White.
Magic number: 63. PISCES: Businessmen can face some conflict of interest with partners. At home, you will have to help out a younger relation with some work and also, be supportive towards others.
Tarot message: Think more about long-term interests. Lucky colour:
Silver-grey. Magic number: 44.
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The year ahead
If your birthday is July 22...
Being born on the 22nd, you are capable of handling large scale undertakings, assuming great responsibility and working long and hard towards their completion. Often, especially in the early part of life, there is rigidity or stubbornness, and a tendency to repress feelings. Being an idealistic, you work for the greater good with a good deal of inner strength and charisma. You are aware and intuitive. You are subject to a good deal of nervous tension. Relations with your spouse may get strained due to your over involvement at office work, so, divide time accordingly. Problems could arise at home, but avoid criticising your mate over small issues. You need to put your intelligence and influence to sort matters out at work. Positive colours: Dark blue, dark grey, pale turquoise and gold Select days: Saturday Favourable numbers: 2, 4 and 8 Gems recommended: Gomed, cats eye and tiger stone Charity on birthday: Donate sindoor or saffron or oranges to a religious place
You share your birthday with Rakhi Vijiyan, who is best known as Sweetie of Hum Paanch. Due to Rahu's influence in her horoscope, her career graph is bumpy like her married life.
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I don't know if the play is against Hinduism or not, but the protests certainly are. Hinduism is not just a religion but culture and has an edge over others for it has flexibility. We should at least have the tolerance to watch the play. It's like destroying our own fabric of existence. As much as I gather, the play is a satire against a class of sadhus and sants. If it's against Krishna or an identifiable figure, I can understand the uproar, but it's against a class which is already under the scanner. In a very progressive city like Chandigarh, if it's happening, I wonder if we have the right to call ourselves an advanced democracy. A sad day for theatre and us.
I have been associated with theatre for 22 years. I had only heard that once for a play Baba Bolta Hai, Tagore main taale lage the. It's a first time for us. We were called by the Administration around three and informed that the play has been suspended. We were not even allowed to remain inside Tagore Theatre to apologise to our audiences; we were told there is threat to life. It's matter of shame that administration got scared of a crowd. There is absolutely nothing objectionable in the play. A theatre person has strength within. I have survived this long not for nothing. We are working against a particular thought- process and would continue to do so. They threatened me 'ghar jala denge, gadi ko aag laga dengen'; do whatever. New gadi will come, will live elsewhere, but I will stand by my belief. I am not scared of death threat, everyone's time is fixed. I will stand by my work, my creative liberty. We will hold silent protest and meet the Administration again to give us our fair due.
It's utterly shocking. And, completely bizarre in a city like Chandigarh. The theme that this play deals with has been dealt in hundreds of plays. We read so frequently of so-called god men being accused and arrested for rape and what not. And, what does theatre do if not mirror the reality or society? That finishes here. We have seen it happening in literature and painting, and now theatre. As an artiste, it makes one question whether we live in democracy or a country where the Constitution promises freedom of expression. 
We artistes do hold the responsibility not to hurt the sentiments of any segment of society. But at any cost, the creative freedom mustn't be curbed. Not letting the play be staged is not acceptable. If you don't agree with it, use art to answer it. We live in a democracy. One must let the play be staged and if there are issues debate it with the director.
Just a whiff of rain is enough to pop images of pakoras and meetha poora in your head. And before you know it, there's a fire beneath that waiting wok of refined oil. While the monsoon calls for endless cups of the dear 'chai' and innumerable brews of the beloved coffee, experts believe eating healthy in this particular season is the trickiest. History, however, has evidence of even our ancestors throwing caution to the winds and gorging on oil-laden sweet treats!
But, if the heart wants what the heart wants, then we happen to have a solution for that too! "Why go for the unhealthy medium of frying your favourite food items? Take French fries, for instance. Try slicing potatoes and roasting them in the oven instead. Just sprinkle some rock salt and pepper when done, and you're good to go! Not half as many calories! Or, opt for namkeen, roasted dalia for tea-time snack. Ditch maida-based items like matthi and
samosas."
A live performance by singer Kamaal Khan on popular Bollywood tracks, décor reflecting the golden period and actresses Bipasha Basu and Chitrangada Singh walking the ramp in true diva style, the grand finale by Shree Raj Mahal Jewellers as a part of India Couture Week 2014, turned out to be a complete Bollywood affair.
