The Tribune, Chandigarh, India - The Tribune Lifestyle

	The art of science Prateek Sethi acknowledges that he was not good in studies. Today, as the host of a show FAQ, he helps many a student garner pearls of wisdom Amarjot Kaur While many stereotypes have sabotaged the reputation of television, which has often been trashed and ridiculed to the extent of being nicknamed as 'idiot box', one may least suspect its association with education. Well, of all that we have known about underestimation is that it has the capacity to give some unexpected hi-voltage surprises, one of which is Prateek Sethi, who hosts a show titled FAQ on Pogo. While he deconstructs science to engage young kids with functional and radical aspects of the subject, the significant benefit of his disposition that adds to the content of the show is his capacity to entertain with some wacky wisecracks! At Chitkara International School, Chandigarh, students were treated to an abundance of these on Monday as they learnt how to pierce a balloon without bursting it and the laws of friction, only with some interesting tools. Prateek Sethi comes across as someone really energetic. "There was never an active motivation to host a science show, since I was always a duffer plonked on the backseats of the classroom. But I guess that is the reason why I got down to doing this show," laughs Prateek. While he graduated to become an animation designer, Prateek has enough experience of working with kids. He has been doing so for a decade now - conducting shows, creating television promos for various channels, including Hungama, Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network, facilitating science-based workshops and now recently, creating videos for school education. "I love using the tools that facilitate easy understanding of various scientific laws. The laws will remain the same, only the methods of explaining them can always be manipulated and innovated," he says. As he shares that he is working on developing content for a couple of new kids-based shows, he says, "I love working with kids because as we grow, we learn how to perceive data rather than just receiving it without any filters. Kids are like sponges, they can absorb almost anything and that's why I love associating with them through infotainment." As he speaks of children, an intrinsic concern about the evolution of education system envelopes him and he breathes a sigh of relief as he shares that he has been witnessing a change in the methods of teaching, which he believes is for the better. "I have always had a great set of teachers, but a set of tools that would engage our minds was lacking. Now there is a free flow of knowledge with portals like YouTube and Vimeo, which is enhancing the contextual aspect of understanding the content," he says. He also makes a mention of his own company that provides creative services as far as communication is concerned. "Trip is my dream venture and our company is involved in providing communication designs and content. We are also working on free energy generators," he says. amarjot@tribunemail.com
	Par Excellence 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) (The column is being reprinted due to some confusion regarding the pictures earlier)
	Eye for detail Young photographer JoAn Thakkarwal's passion for her hobby reflects in every click she makes. No wonder her pictures convey a lot Poonam Bindra "Photography is a passion for me," opines young photographer JoAn Thakkarwal, who has taken her passion for photography to the next level. It is interesting to hear that as a toddler too she picked up the box camera and shot off a whole roll! She grew up clicking pictures for her friends as well as for her own self. "It was only after I entered an online competition floated by Vogue, Italy, where my picture of a parched tree was selected for their cover from among twenty lakh submissions, that I became really serious about my hobby. That's when my parents presented me with a DSLR," says this Ludhiana-based artist. Vogue named her picture Loan Of life . JoAn completely identifies with Elliot Erwit's words: "To me photography is an art of observation. It's about finding something interesting in an ordinary place…I've found it has little to do with the things you see and everything to do with the way you see them." Keeping her creativity intact, this enthusiastic young girl, who is a student of law at the Punjab University, is also the media secretary of NSUI and actively associated with the development of her ancestral village - Thakkarwal. Being an only child, JoAn feels that she has almost seen the world from an adult's point of view so she can associate with daily struggles of life more. "Till I can, I do not want to commercialise my hobby for one has to suppress one's creativity to be able to please the viewer. I click what I want to and comments of appreciation just nurture my soul" Recently part of an exhibition at Artmosphere gallery 'Divine Touch', JoAn is also getting together a collection of photographs for a solo exhibit.
	star track Quiet celebrations Actor Dhanush, who turned 31 Monday, celebrated his birthday Sunday night here with family and very close friends. Dhanush, who has been shooting for R Balakrishnan's Shamitabh, flew down from Mumbai to spend time with his parents on the occasion. "Dhanush had come home to spend time with his parents and wife Aishwarya for his birthday. His wife threw him a surprise birthday party here last night and his close friends from the industry along with his family members were also present," a source close to the actor said. Tamil actors Silambarasan aka Simbu, Suriya, Amala Paul and Surabhi were part of Dhanush's birthday celebration. Dhanush's brother Selvaraghavan and sister-in-law Geethanjali Selvaraghavan were also present, besides others. "A 26-kg eggless cake was cut by Dhanush at the party to mark the success of his latest Tamil release Vella Illa Pattathari," the source added. — IANS
	Remembering a legend We take a look at life and times of Johnny Walker on his death anniversary that falls today. Badruddin Qazi aka Johnny Walker cast a magic spell among the masses with his simple, innocent, unadulterated humour providing comic relief in tense situations in the movies of the 50s and 60s. Badruddin Qazi started his career as an ordinary bus conductor in the BEST buses of Mumbai and regaled passengers with his antics. Fortune smiled upon him one day when he had actor Balraj Sahani as his passenger. Balraj was scripting dialogues for the film Baazi to be directed by Guru Dutt. Inspired by Badrudddin's antics, Balraj took him to Guru Dutt and asked him to introduce himself. Johnny Walker entered the cabin of Guru Dutt with the unsteady gait of a drunk, mouthing profanity. An irate Guru Dutt called upon the unit people to throw him out of the sets. But then Balraj Sahani intervened and the rest is history. Guru Dutt rechristened Badruddin Qazi as Johnny Walker after the famous scotch brand, as he was very impressed with his act of a drunk. Thus Johnny Walker became an integral part of many Guru Dutt films, like Aar Paar, Mr and Mrs 55, CID, Pyaasa, Kagaz Ki Phool, Chaudvin Ka Chand, Sahib Bibi Aur Gulam, etc. His impeccable diction, blended with wonderful performances, became a mesmerising combination which the audience lapped up with great excitement. His excellent sense of timing in delivering dialogues helped him give standout performances. Renowned filmmakers sought him out and characters were especially written for him. He brought his own class act in films like Baat Ek Raat Ki, Naya Daur, Duniya, Madhumati', Devdas, Aarop and more. Audiences clamoured to see more of him. The CID song Yeh Hai Bombay Meri Jaan is still the anthem for Mumbaikars. And who could forget the timeless Sar Jo Tera Chakraye in Guru Dutt's classic Pyaasa? His squeaky voice, wafer-thin moustache and wit added another dimension to this funny man. After a long successful innings, Johnny took a break from Bollywood. But he pleasantly surprised his fans when he returned to it for one last time in 1997 with Chachi 420.
	Lena has inspired aspiring actresses: Kerry Scandal' star Kerry Washington says she has created opportunities for actresses in Hollywood. The 37-year-old actress also feels Oprah Winfrey has been among the women celebrities who have inspired women, who aspire to act in Hollywood. "It's fun to hear that. There is a real circle of mutual respect. "There are more opportunities for women and part of that are people like Lena and Oprah creating those opportunities and having a community that believes our successes and can help rather than take away from each other," she said, when told that Dunham and Winfrey are her fans. "That's the truth, the more successful you are, the more you're able to inspire and create work for others. It's great when we live in a belief system. It works," she added. — PTI Opening up Kerry Washington has joined Twitter, but says that initially she was apprehensive about being on the social networking site. The 37-year-old has opened an account on Twitter to be able to interact with fans of her hit US TV series Scandal. "Yes. There is a real power in social media. The world has become a global community and that's very exciting. (But) I'm a very private person so I was nervous about it," she was quoted as saying. "I didn't know how to interact in this way without feeling like I was violating a sense of having a personal life, separate from work," she added. — IANS
	Reel versus real Kareena Kapoor and Salman Khan's next Bajrangi Bhaijaan is about a Brahmin girl and Muslim boy, but the former says that it has no correlation with her personal life. "The film is going on floors in October. It's a story of a Muslim guy and Brahmin girl. It's got nothing do with my personal life, but it's a beautiful human story," Kareena, who is married to Saif Ali Khan said. "I think it will be Salman's career's best film. It will have Salman in a completely different light altogether and it's a very special film. "It's special because Salman is producing it himself and I am honoured I am with him. I am lucky to work with all the Khans in all their home productions," added the actress who was last seen in the damp squib Gori Tere Pyaar Mein. Kabir Khan will wield the directorial baton for Bajrangi Bhaijaan. To be made under Salman Khan Ventures, it will be released on Eid next year. — IANS
	Fawad had a khoobsurat experience with Sonam Pakistani actor Fawad Khan's experience of working in India was very good and he credits his Khoobsurat “co-star Sonam Kapoor for it. "She is a great person and I enjoyed working with her. The environment on the sets was very homely and I didn't face any problem at any stage," Fawad said in an interview. "I didn't face any problem in communicating with the people on the sets and a lot of credit goes to her (Sonam) for that," he added. Fawad would love to take Sonam on a tour of Pakistan, especially the Sind region that Sonam's family belongs to. "I have heard she is interested in the Sind region, so I can show her that area. Besides that, I can show her around Lahore the best as I belong to that city," Fawad said. "It would be a pleasure to show her around Pakistan. I think this is a good chance for us to connect as it is not often you get to visit the other's country," added the actor. Khoobsurat has been produced by Sonam's sister Rhea Kapoor and directed by Shashanka Ghosh. It also stars Kirron Kher and Ratna Pathak Shah and hits theatres Sep 19. Sonam has gone on record praising her current costar too. — IANS
	In the spotlight Singer Demi Lovato says she wants to date level-headed men because she feels an immature person cannot handle her emotional complexities. The 21-year-old Give Your Heart a Break hit maker says she will only allow herself to be in a relationship with someone who can help her manage her mental health. "I would be slightly overwhelming for somebody who is not at a level of maturity to support me mentally," said Lovato, who has battled drug and alcohol addiction and an eating disorder in the past. The former Disney star has had a couple of high-profile boyfriends in the past. She admits it is always a struggle when a romance comes to an end, but it's even harder when the relationship ends in the spotlight. — PTI
	Look, who’s jealous! Singer Justin Bieber is reportedly unhappy with on-and-off girlfriend Selena Gomez's new found friendship with Cara Delevingne. Bieber, 20, also called Delevingne, 21, to ask about what's going on between her and Gomez, 22, reported a publication. "Justin has called Cara on more than one occasion, wanting to know what's going on," an insider said, adding, that Bieber should not be worried about their closeness. "She's just having fun with a new pal," the insider said. — PTI
	chatter box Monsoon fashion, redefined Put your most fashionable foot forward this monsoon, so believe these TV actresses, who give tips on style for the season Bright hues: Rishina Kandhari "I prefer wearing shorts and synthetic tops, as they dry quickly in rains, with gum boots. I love fluorescent colours; any colour from the rainbow is my favourite! Use big, waterproof stylish bags in plastic, and instead of an umbrella, go for trench coats -- they are in and look very smart. Two must-haves I carry are a hand sanitiser and towel napkin to keep myself dry. My style statement for the monsoon is -- go short, go colourful!" Short & comfy: Shama Sikander "Shorts and t-shirts, as they are comfortable — you can enjoy rain without bothering about your clothes, especially since the market is now flooded with monsoon products such as cool shoes and clothes. I love wearing neon colours in the rain. I'll always carry my plastic bag, in which the most important things would be my phone and windsheeter. One must wear plastic slippers or shoes and carry an umbrella or a windsheeter with them on a rainy day." Hygiene conscious: Sneha Wagh "I avoid wearing jeans during the rainy season. I prefer fabrics in bright colours that dry quickly. Even ankle-length dresses look really cool. Always carry a charger and a sanitiser in your purse. Wash your feet and hands regularly for hygiene." Flat & fashionable: Shritama Mukherjee "I love to wear light colours in the monsoon, as it doesn't absorb too much of heat and is also soothing to the eyes. And, one should always wear flats in monsoons, because it's too muddy and heels might get dug in the ground, making it uncomfortable to walk. Light and vibrant colours like yellow, green, sky blue, baby pink and especially white are the colours of this season." Taking it light: Vahbbiz Dorabajee "Rains are so messy and murky! I would like to stick to lighter clothes shorts and t-shirts or dresses. During the rainy season, I always carry my umbrella. One must wear the right footwear that is rain proof."
	Sweating it out, together Actors Jay Soni and Rahul Raj Singh are gym buddies. When quizzed, Jay Soni says, "Rahul Raj Singh and I have been friends for a long time. We've been working out at the same gym for the past year. He is a fitness freak; so am I. We keep each other motivated. When you have someone pushing you, especially to pick up the weights, it surely helps. With him around, it's fun. I keep giving him tips too. My objective of gymming is to have a lean look and that's the objective of all actors these days, as lean looks good on-screen. We also discuss what to eat and what to avoid. At least five days a week we work out together and we work out for two hours at a stretch."
	Gautam wants to go to jail Actor Gautam Rode is all excited to go behind the bars at a local jail. While this may surprise many, the excitement is because the actor recently found out that he has a huge fan following amongst the inmates at jails in India. We hear that the prisoners eagerly wait for Gautam's show to come on air daily and it's become a ritual on weekdays for them to watch Gautam. When asked, the actor says, "A few months ago, a production person from my show told me about a visit he paid to a jail and how all the inmates there were asking him about me. He told me that I had admirers in the jail, who religiously watch my show. A few days later, a neighbour of mine, whose brother-in-law works in a jail, told him to speak to me and plan a visit. Honestly, I did not know that our jails also constituted of our audience. I am planning to visit a local jail soon."
	Astro Turf P. Khurrana ARIES: Shopkeepers will find the day quite hectic. Actors are feeling very positive and optimistic. Housewives: a day to improve your home appearance. An intense discussion can play on your mind. Tarot message: Well-wishers will give sound advice. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 30. TAURUS: Do not worry; discuss your plans with loved ones. In the evening, children will be a source of happiness and joy. A partnership is in the pipeline and looks set for success. Tarot message: Take limited risks. Lucky colour: Forest-green. Magic number: 57. GEMINI: Property deal gets concluded. Domestic issues come up for urgent consideration. Have no worries, your work is well under control. Make an effort to understand and accept your relationships. Tarot message: Health of an elderly member at home will need care. Lucky colour: Deep crimson. Magic number: 54. CANCER: Romantic life takes an upswing. It is a good day to try your luck in speculative deals. Those employed will be burdened with additional responsibility without incentive. Tarot message: Leave things open-ended for best results. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 33. LEO: Pay heed to wise counsel. Do not intervene in others' dispute. Housewives: stick to routine activities. Those looking for a job will receive suitable offer. Do not show indiscretion in love. Tarot message: Be creative to retain a grip over your business. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 59. VIRGO: Your card "The Chariot" brings a busy day ahead. Please maintain a balance between work and rest. Students: do not become reckless. You should be careful about well-being of your parents. Tarot message: Wait a while; everything will get sorted out on its own. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 47. LIBRA: A hidden relationship proves a headache. Indecision can be crippling at the moment. Set aside time to get in touch with your thoughts and feelings, even if it is just half-an-hour. Tarot message: You will get the help you need if you ask for it. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 37. SCORPIO: Today, most of your time and attention should be centered on your personal life. Arguments with your spouse can become serious. Influential people will not be helpful. Avoid speculation. Tarot message: Do not overspend just to impress others. Lucky colour: Golden. Magic number: 25. SAGITTARIUS: A real estate deal should be left alone for the time being. You will find new opportunities opening up for you. Maintain a low profile at a party. An attraction can throw you out of sync. Tarot message: Over-optimism can lead to mistakes. Lucky colour: Royal-blue. Magic number: 27. CAPRICORN: Your personal plans will meet with some stiff opposition. Act impartially and avoid the pitfalls of guilt. A step-child will not be well or can suffer from behavioural problems. Tarot message: You can stabilize your financial situation. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 63. AQUARIUS: Money-wise, the day is slow. Friends will lose your confidence. Let your energy be turned towards artistic work. Your beloved will be in a lively mood. Women: avoid impulsive buying. Tarot message: Avoid gossip session at the work-place. Lucky colour: Silver. Magic number: 26. PISCES: Go all out to improve your position at work. If you are relaxing at home, visit a local market and enjoy the sights and sounds. Record this personal journey of self-discovery. Tarot message: This is not a bad time to open up new doors. Lucky colour: Brown.Magic number: 54.
	The Year Ahead Madan Gupta Spatu If your birthday is July 29 Your birthday on the 29th adds a tone of idealism to your nature. You are imaginative and creative, but rather uncomfortable in the business world. You are very aware and sensitive, with outstanding intuitive skills and analytical abilities. The 29 reduces to 11, one of the master numbers, which often produces nervous tension. This is the birthday of the dreamer rather than the doer. You do, however, work very well with people. A difference of opinion will just be an opportunity in disguise. Get on the same page as your boss or other higher-ups; show your willingness to further the group goals and get moving. Look at this year as a chance to improve your dealings with people and creating a more harmonious atmosphere. Positive colours: Golden, Red, Brown. Select days: Sunday, Monday. Favourable numbers: 1,4,2,7. Gems recommended: Yellow Sapphire, Red Coral Charity on birthday: Donate saffron at a religious place You share your birthday with Richa Sharma (July 29, 1972, Faridabad), who is a versatile singer. She has cut out quite a few albums till date. Astrologically, her high pitch will remain her forte in the times to come.