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To hell and back
Gerrari—apparently this is the most favoured word for all Punjabi singers. The word finds a generous mention in each song. This also happens to be most adorned word for all Punjabi. And as they say, once the gerrari gets stuck, there is no way it would move easily! Gerrari Offroaders' Club from Chandigarh is stuck on winning the first edition of the Rainforest Challenge India (RFC) to be held in Goa from August 8-14.
There 4x4 vehicles have been modified to meet the challenge, packed off to Goa, the off-roading techniques have been re-visited a number of times, and adrenaline is something they have stored in plenty. Adds Kabir, who takes the lead to speak since all the other members are busy with other nitty gritties of the challenge. "RFC is a competition which is on every off-roader's list. We all set to handle the challenge," he says. Since Kabir seems to be in love with the word challenge, we thought it is only fair to flip to the other side of the coin, marked risks. The smile returns. Kabir and his teammates have dealt with it each time they have 'purposely' taken their vehicle off the road. "Manuevering the vehicle is the challenge, driving through water, slush keeping in mind that we don't have all the time in the world is it." From the time Gerrari Offroaders came into being, they've participated in various competitions. Mahindra Off- roading challenge, OYA 4x4 Off-road challenge in addition to Pallar challenge. If you are thinking, steering a vehicle into slush is 'fun' (which it is in a way), there is more behind the vehicles. Prepping up a regular 4x4 to a modified form requires a stack of crisp motes. Kabir gives that I-know-what-you-mean look. "You are talking about sponsors, well, it is my mother and father who are footing the bill for me," he proudly shares as he is set to clear the 30 different and difficult stages that RFC throws open to them. Kabir along with five more team members including Gagan Sachdeva, Karan Bali, Gurmeet Virdi, Sachin Verma and Dushyant Khosla will be participating in the six-day event. Getting dirty was never so challenging before. jasmine@tribunemail.com
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Other side of the story
It is a make-believe journey whose key lies in imagination. Or, perhaps not. Children's author Anushka Ravishankar places integrity above all things. "Honesty is the most important thing while writing for children. The writer must tell the story honestly and that is what segregates a good story from a bad one. The moment you use the story to push hidden agendas, it loses its connectivity. Then there's one more thing, never talk down to children," she shares, while in Chandigarh, for an interactive workshop at Dikshant International School, Zirakpur. "More than what I like to say to them. I like to hear what they have to say. What are they reading at the moment or drawing etc." Traditional touch It's been a decade-and-a-half into writing for children with 25 titles and counting, a degree in mathematics notwithstanding. It all started with, simple observation in a bookstore. "We need to have books for Indian children." While a lot may have changed from back then, there are still a couple of flaws to be remedied. "The children's books are delegated to a corner in any bookstore…As for publishing industry, it is not they are not publishing enough but how do you market children's books," shares the author of Elephants Never Forget, Tiger on a Tree, among several others. Reading out It is not easy writing for what seem like little creatures. Innocent as they might be, intuitive they are too. In an environment increasingly governed by audio visual medium and technology, introducing the little ones to a literary world remains quite a challenge. "Parents have to be readers first. That is very important for children to be introduced to reading. At the age of one start reading out to them. They will not only enjoy the exercise but start associating reading as bonding time with parents," shares the author, who grew up on a regular dose of "Enid Blyton, Nancy Drew and Hardy Boys." While there's no dearth of International names to take in children's writing, that range from "David Almond to Hilary McKay," there are comparatively very few Indian authors who make the mark. "Among Indian authors, Archit Taneja, Devika Rangachari and Natasha Sharma, among others are quite promising." Pen pals Ideas and inspiration could come flying by or could be a collective thought out process of all things seen, heard, read, observed. "It takes imagination and curiosity to pick up things all around. Further it is a combination of all things collected in the head." Coming up is a project in collaboration with two Swedish authors. "There will be two of us from India, Vikram Ghosh and I and we will spend three days together to come up with four detective stories on the theme Magnifying Glass of Sherlock Holmes." We are sure it is going to be as transparent to a T. manpriya@tribunemail.com
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Why woman centric?
Romantic films are by default woman- centric as a love story is incomplete without a heroine, she thinks. "Love stories are women-centric as you cannot have a love story without the female protagonist. Sometimes it is female protagonist who has a better role than the hero," she said. "Films made by legendary filmmakers like Raj Kapoor, Yash Chopra, Sanjay Leela Bhansali have strong female protagonists, but you don't call it women centric film. If you see a female doing a title role and the film does not have a strong A-list actor then the mindset is it is a women centric film. "The story has to be A-list. Content should be the king...it doesn't matter who is there in the film....When content is good then a film with newcomers also does well." Mardaani shows Rani in a never-before-seen avatar as she does some hardcore action and chases the bad guys. "I learned Israeli self-defence martial art form for girls. We have shown realistic action in the film rather than showing people flying here and there. People always wonder how a woman will do action. There is a prejudice like when a man fights so it is mind blowing but when a woman fights then they find it weak," Rani added. The film is centred around human trafficking. — PTI
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Opening Saif’s ex-files
According to the latest grapevine, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Preity Zinta will be playing Saif Ali Khan's ex-girlfriends in Raj and Krishna DK's next, Happy Ending. In the film, Saif is paired with Ileana D'Cruz.
Revealed a source close to the production, "The director duo was looking for actresses whose romantic camaraderie with Saif has clicked in the past. It was Saif who suggested Preity's name who has successfully paired with him twice in the past (Kal Ho Na Ho and Salaam Namaste)." The source adds that Saif personally called up Preity and asked her if she'd be interested in playing his ex-girlfriend. She laughed and agreed. "Her character is the anchor in Saif's life. He plays a successful author struggling with a writer's block," says the source. On the other hand Kareena, will also be seen playing a cameo in the film. She will play a dramatically different character. "She is more of an obsessive lover and her part is much smaller than Preity's," adds the source. When contacted, Krishna DK said, "Yes, Saif called Preity and it was sweet of her to agree. Bebo's inclusion was more of a spontaneous decision as she was with Saif in Los Angeles where we were shooting." The rom-com movie also stars Govinda, Ranvir Shorey and Kalki Koelchin. The film is being produced by Saif's production house IIIuminati Films. The film was shot in Ann Arbor and Michigan.
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Can’t take success for granted: Rohit
Filmmaker Rohit Shetty, who has delivered blockbusters galore in Bollywood and who is currently awaiting the release of Singham Returns, doesn't believe in taking success for granted and so continues to put in his "100 per cent" to his films.
The director of films like Golmaal series, Singham, Bol Bachchan and Chennai Express has a pulse of the audience's taste. Does that put an additional pressure on him to surpass the success of his previous films? "No, it is not about the pressure," Shetty said. "It is the approach that matters the most. You cannot take your success for granted. After Chennai Express, when we were writing Singham Returns, we knew the pressure.
Today, that is why I am not nervous. "See, I don't know the fate of the film and I can't boast of the business. But whether the film is a hit or a flop on Friday, my honesty will be there. When I sit with my team in my office, I would feel that 'Yes, we gave our 100 percent to the film'. The rest is up to the audience," he said. Singham Returns is releasing on August 15. — IANS
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Farhan reporting
Farhan Akhtar used to start his day two hours earlier than everyone else while he was shooting for Dil Dhadakne Do. Farhan had a multiple presence on the sets of DDD—as an actor, producer and a dialogue writer.
While Ritesh Sidhwani is a hands-on producer and was looking into all details, Farhan used to be available to ensure all ends are met. He used to start his day two hours before the call time to ensure everything is in place. They had a hectic shooting schedule and were working against the clock. While they were travelling from one port to another they had to ensure the shoot gets completed.
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From Holiday to Entertainment business
Bollywood star Akshay Kumar, who delivered a hit with Holiday: A Soldier Is Never Off Duty, says he enjoys doing a range of movies for his fans. But he loves comedy the most. He speaks about his next release Entertainment, working with newcomers and more.
Canine connection The last film I remember about the rapport between the hero and a canine was Teri Meherbaniyan with Jackie Shroff. In Entertainment, I think you'd have to be pretty cold-hearted not to feel for the man and dog relationship. Believe me, there are more dog lovers out there than there are action freaks. Fresh faces Why shouldn't I work with them? They deserve to be given a chance. I've always chosen to be instinctive rather than calculated. I think that's one of the nicest things about me. If all leading men worked with the same talented heroines, how would our industry ever grow? It's my duty to give back to this industry what was given to me. With love Whatever makes my fans' happy, I'm willing to do. They are incredible. They gave me so much praise for Holiday... and requested I do more cinema like this. But at the same time they said they couldn't wait for Entertainment to release! So, I think if I give them the best of both worlds, which I'm juggling to do now with my next three films, then by God's grace they'll be happy, and I'll feel worthy of their love and support. I am nothing without them. Satisfied soul I love my work, be it funny, serious, emotional, or useless. It makes me appreciate all I have done, good, bad or indifferent. I'm just glad I've done something.
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Tiger safari
Upcoming film Roar: Tigers Of The Sundarbans gives you a sneak peek into the world of the beautiful yet dangerous tigers of Sundarbans. The film takes the audience to a place where only a few men dare to enter.
The film has been shot in territories of Sunderbans in Bangladesh and India and is replete with larger-than-life sequences with man eaters leaping onto boats etc. Produced by Abis Rizvi and directed by Kamal Sadanah, the film features Abhinav Shukla, Himarsha V, Aadil Chahal, Aaran Choudhury, Ali Quli, Naura Fatehi, Pranay Dixit, Subrat Dutta and Virendra Singh Ghuman.
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Bromance in Bucharest
Arjun Kapoor is chilling in Bucharest in Romania with Ranveer Singh who is over there shooting for Dil Dhadakne Do. Arjun went after wrapping up Tevar. Ranveer said that he was admiring the beauty of Bucharest while 'baba' was admiring the beauties of Bucharest.
So much for vanity Kareena Kapoor Khan is becoming increasingly conscious of her appearance in pictures. All her photo-shoot and film pictures are sent to her for approval first and she only retains the best. We can assure her that she looks gorgeous all the time and is incapable of looking bad.
In love again Aditya Roy Kapur and Shraddha Kapoor, who were last seen together in Aashiqui 2, will be now seen together in Tigmanshu Dhulia's next film. It is going to be a love story set in contemporary times.
Pricey lady Rumour has it that actress Sonam Kapoor asked for Rs 5 crore when she was offered a film down South. She has become popular in South after Raanjhanaa. But the makers had to cancel the plan to cast her because of the huge amount she asked for.
When Shahid was grounded
Actor Shahid Kapoor had to do it all for his upcoming Haider. The actor not only went through strict regime and sacrificed his hair, but he also had to keep his look a secret for months. He avoided media for three months.
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Putting — start the ball on the intended line
Jesse Grewal
To get the face square at impact, we need a correctly aimed putter face at address. If the putter is open or closed at address there would be compensation at impact leading to inconsistency in the result. The face of the putter basically should remain square to the path through the putting stroke. As the path is an arc, the putter face would be opening on the backswing and closing after impact as the putter head travels inwards after impact. The relationship of the putter face to the path at impact influences the starting direction and the roll on the ball. An open face to the path makes the ball start to the right (for right-handed golfer) and the axis of the ball tilts to the right with the ball rolling with apparent side spin. The opposite is true for a closed face in relation to the path. The position of the putter face has approximately an 80% effect on the starting direction of the ball while the path's effect is approximately 20%. So if the face is 1 degree open the path would have to be 5 degrees left to compensate it to get the ball to start straight. Similarly, an off centre strike has a huge effect. If the ball is hit on the heel of the putter the putter face closes and the ball starts to the left. The opposite is true for a toe strike. There are numerous causes for an off centre strike. The primary ones are an incorrect set up, path of the putter and a stroke created by the small muscles in the hands. An incorrect set up leads to an unstable body and has an effect on the path of the putter too. An acute in to out path leads to heel strikes and an acute out to in path leads to toe strikes. More on the set up in next week's article. (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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Gown syndrome
Never mind the fact that the big daddy of fashion JJ Valaya spoke vehemently against the silhouette being done by Indian designers. She opines, "He spoke against saree gowns and lehenga gowns; all the fusion concoctions being done in the market. I think one should let a gown be a gown and a saree be a saree; ditto with lehenga. Why try and make a gown out of a lehenga or a saree?" As for the Indian-wear, she has just been testing waters.
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For the record
Adding to the array of already existing Punjabi music production companies, here's another record label that swears by its authenticity and merit to bring forth the hidden talent of Punjab. In conversation with Jacie Saini, Gurvinder Singh Happy and Bai Darshi, the owners of the company, Real Record, we stand acquainted with their prime concerns, one of which is exploring the region and discovering new talent. "Our main concern remains the singers in Punjab, who do not get the right platform to showcase their talent," says Jacie Saini, who claims to have edited and directed several Punjabi music videos.
Attended by Punjabi singers, Bai Amarjit and Gurkirpal, Real Records also announced its first single, Kali Nagan, which will be released soon. "The song is about the drug menace in Punjab and we will be releasing it soon. Although we will be releasing singles mainly, we will also be aiming at releasing albums that feature collaborations of various artists," says Saini. — TNS
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F.I.R. turns eight
F.I.R. is a comical television series that shows lady inspector Chandramukhi Chautala and her adept team of police officers solving criminal cases with a funny twist. One of SAB TV's most loved comic series, F.I.R. completes a hugely successful stint of eight glorious years on television. This makes it one of the longest-running comedy shows in the history of Indian television industry. The show captivates its loyal audience with its different characters and their unique mannerisms. Chandramukhi's dashing style and fearless attitude coupled with Gopi's funny way of twisting English and Hindi has appealed to audiences across the length as well as breadth of the country. This popular TV series that started entertaining audiences in the year 2006 also recently underwent a format change to include a 'live audience' in the show. Kavita Kaushik, who plays Chandramukhi Chautala, said, "When I was first offered this show eight years ago, I was also getting offers for negative roles on other channels. However, I chose to go ahead with F.I.R as I had a strong belief in its innovative script. I did my role with gusto and enthusiasm. From the first episode till now, it has been an incredible journey and I have tasted success along with SAB TV. I thank the viewers from the bottom of my heart and am sure that they will continue to support us with their affection in the years to come. Added Gopi Bhalla aka Constable Gopinath Gandotra, "I can't believe that we have completed eight years. I feel blessed to be a part of the F.I.R. family and truly enjoy working with all my co-actors. Being a part of such a unique concept, I also got to experiment with my character and funny mannerisms that were liked by our viewers. We shall continue to entertain our audiences in the coming years."
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Break ke baad
Achint Kaur, who wowed the audiences in shows like Kittie Party, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii, is now back on television after a break of two-and-a-half years. Here she talks about her roles, new show and more.
Why did you choose this show? The role was interesting and not a negative one, which I have done enough in the past. I play the mother-in-law Durga Devi aka DD, who has hardened over the years struggling to reach the top and is condescending towards the middle class. She is strict and arrogant, but not negative. She rules the house like a man would. Tell us more about your character. I play a sophisticated south Mumbai lady. She's a jewellery magnate, has a razor-sharp mind and a tongue to match. She's a hard-as-nails; a tough nut to crack. Is your dressing style quite chic in the show? Yes. And I love the look. Thankfully, no typical saas look with heavy sarees and jewellery. It's fun. Why the long break from TV? I was busy with some films and have three plays on the floor currently. Moreover, I wasn't getting good roles, but same ones over and over again. This role is not only interesting but also very real. How is it working with Ravi Dubey and Nia Sharma? Both are very professional and I am having a good time with them. — HRM
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Sunny times for Daniel!
We saw adult star Sunny Leone enter Indian TV with the controversial reality show Bigg Boss 5 and now buzz is that her husband Daniel Weber might be doing the show too. He stars in the list of names along with Sunil Grover, among others. He is mulling over the offer.
Time to move on Iqbal Khan will not be part of Tumhari Paakhi anymore. He has quit the show and even tweeted about it saying, "Bye bye TP ... I'm not going to be there but I'm sure the new story line will be great. keep watching .well what can I say..I love you guys." Apparently Varun Badola will enter the show as the new lead.
Deeply involved
Mohit Malik recently got too involved in a scene and accidentally hit his co-star Harsh Vashisht on his face. While shooting a scene for his show Doli Armaanon Ki, Mohit was supposed to hit Harsh but he misjudged and ended up punching Harsh just above his eye. He has been feeling guilty over it as Harsh is a friend. Harsh is better now.
Why the fuss?
Siddhant Karnick, who is doing Life OK's Gustakh Dil, is surprised at the reaction his recent Airtel advertisement has garnered. He plays a character whose boss is his wife. She gives him tons of work and later goes home to cook for him. Once the ad was released, people reacted in many ways making the message controversial. Siddhant thinks the ad is cute and never thought it would become a talking point.
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The year ahead
If your birthday is August 6...
Number Six is the peace-lover; a stable and harmonious vibration. Ruled by Venus, you will be compassionate, family-loving, trustworthy and domesticated. Socially, a positive period commences today. You will find your social diary filled up and opportunity to meet with old friends arises now. Income will be high this year. A dip in energy, confidence and growth can be felt after December. Avoid starting major projects now. You may be prone to mood swings. Try to accept things as they are in order to avoid arguments with co-workers or superiors. Positive colours: White, Cream. Select days: Friday, Thursday. Favourable numbers: 5, 6. Gems recommended: Diamond, Emerald. Charity on birthday: Donate copper utensils at any religious place today.
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Astro Turf
ARIES: New attractions are likely to be serious. Do not hold back anything from your boss. Sportsmen: focus on exercise and diet. Talk to your counsellor before confronting your partner over joint resources.
Tarot message: Don't waste an opportunity by being rash or impulsive.
Lucky colour: Turquoise.
Magic number: 44. TAURUS: Check all figures related to jointly held funds. Women: do not go in for idle gossip. A new project can get a go-ahead and engage your attention single-mindedly. A female colleague can push your buttons. Tarot message: Keep your eyes on the future. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 28. GEMINI: This is a very hazardous day for speculation. Pace yourself, since your energy levels can be low. Take some time out for meditation to disengage from the thoughts that keep churning over the past. Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 33. CANCER: Get all of
your affairs in better order. Avoid careless spending. This is not the time for
delegating responsibility. Problems can be resolved without any major stress on you. Tarot message: Be positive. Lucky colour: Blue. Magic number: 36. LEO: It is a good day for negotiating contracts. Seek publicity for business plans. Stars favour import and export. You are unlikely to get much chance to relax this evening. Women: beware of deception. Tarot message: Do not be in the rush to spend extravagantly. Be Lucky colour: Silver-grey. Magic number: 54. VIRGO: Your card 'The Magician' casts a smile on health. It is a useful day for discussing long-term plans. A telephone call or a friend gives pleasure in the evening. Your energy levels are at a peak. Tarot message: Spend time meeting experienced people. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 37.
LIBRA: The 'Queen of Swords' reveals that new love attractions are likely to be serious. Life at home is much easier to cope with.
Tarot message: You can make things happen out of the most unlikely circumstances. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 56. SCORPIO: It is a day of mixed luck. Students: expect extra pocket money. Any projects connected with study, travel and cultural pursuits will be very satisfying. Tarot message: Don't try to end all the deadlocks at one go. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 25. SAGITTARIUS: Businessmen: avoid making any important moves. A new romance is in the offing. Your expectations can lead you down the garden path. Tarot message: Do not let trivial problems haunt you. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 28. CAPRICORN: A relative can behave in a rather unpredictable manner. Set your priorities. Early morning surprises can turn into afternoon achievements. Tarot message: Capitalise
on your strength. Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 32. AQUARIUS: Put more effort
into completing unfinished work. Your health can be worrying you a little, so take
proper care. Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health. Lucky colour: Cherry-red. Magic number: 43. PISCES: A sudden improvement in your fortune is indicated. Workmates will be rather aggressive. Tarot message: Lack of persistence can be disastrous in business matters. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 47.
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Three teams of two each from this club will take their vehicles off the road; drag it through the slush, mud, water and dirt track to only fall in line. Kabir Waraich, one of the founder members of the club, has been quizzed on the rally almost everyday in the last one week. But he doesn't mind going through the drill again. "I feel excited talking about the rainforest challenge, after all this is the one thing which is on our minds 24x7," he smiles pretty much to himself. This is one challenge, Gerrari Offroaders, a popular off- roading club, geared up to take on. 
The one thing that these off-roaders rely the most on at this point of time is winching. "A technique by which we manage to pull out the vehicle when it gets stuck. This is a team work, requires coordination and yes, a cool mind that can think without going off road," he laughs out aloud probably imagining different possibilities. 
It is a world of animals and fairies, jungles and castles, gnomes and dwarfs, elves and clowns. Hopping onto the world of children's stories requires imagination. Where the tiger could piggy back ride to a class room and be back in his den. Where the grass and clouds could switch places and rabbits and carrots could exchange colours.
Bollywood actress Rani Mukerji thinks one should stop categorising films as male and female centric.
"I think this term woman-centric is a bit strange because we don't call normal films male-centric. I think we should stop calling a film as male or female centric, it should be a good or a bad film," Rani said at the promotional event of her upcoming film Mardaani.
As mentioned in the previous article, good putting has three basic ingredients - getting the ball rolling as soon as possible on the intended line with the correct speed. Getting the ball to start on the intended line depends on the position of the face at impact, the path of the putter and the centeredness of strike. The position of the face and the centeredness of strike are more important as compared to the path.
There's blue, orange, green, red, white, pink and of course black. And why not? We need all the colours to suit every occasion and body type. Gowns might not be an Indian silhouette, but they suit the Indian body type just fine. "Indian women are heavy on the bosom and at the bottom, and these areas are not hidden very well in jeans or skirts. Gowns easily hide all the body flaws, which is why I promote them," shares designer Priyanka Khosla, while showcasing all the possible types displayed on racks. "I started with gowns because the ones already available in the market were not up to the mark…we have bridal gowns with trails, semi-formal gowns that are as wearable as a maxi, there are some with all the different cuts for the kitties."
You share your birthday with Vishal Bhardwaj (August 6, 1960, Bijnor), a screenwriter and music composer, considered as one of India's leading film-makers. Vishal’s number 6 (Venus) is enough to establish him in filmdom like any big showman of the industry.