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She wants to break free…
The Indian fashion circuit witnessed the advent of a change with Masaba Gupta's unconventional streak, reflected in the spectrum of her imagination, which she fearlessly employed to develop the quirky prints on contrasting colour- blocked fabrics. She started a trend, which did not only do its rounds on the ramps, but also appealed to the sensibilities of several fashion icons, including Shilpa Shetty, Sonam Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and the list continues.
In a conversation with the designer, on her short visit to Chandigarh, we learn about her new fashion collection, Icarus, at Satya Paul, her inspiration, commercialisation of fashion per say and her reaction to criticism.
Colour of creativity
Dressed in a black kurta that was diligently paired with white lowers and a printed scarf, Masaba begins to speak of her new collection, titled Icarus, which is a mythological bird. "I received a note from a friend with a mention of Icarus and that was all that it took to trigger my imagination," she says. "While most of the fashion designers worry themselves sick while anticipating the verdicts of the industry or people in general, I wanted to break free from that zone and fly high like the Icarus without being scared of falling," she smiles. As she doles out the contents of her collection, she shares that the collection is essentially a dramatic play of illusions in delusions. "This collection will feature illusions as motifs on colour-blocked fabrics. So, while you will see the hand with scissors cutting through the silhouette, it will only be an illusion. I fell upon the idea while watching the master ji cutting the fabric," she shares. "I wanted the prints to be more fluid and interactive with the garment, so we actually developed a print with water flowing from the tap!" she adds while confessing that it was a creatively challenging experience for her.
Power of eyes
That Masaba translates art into fashion like a magic show, there's more magic in her mind that provides her perspective with that edgy cut while making it look so fascinating. "When it comes to inspiration, I think the only thing that works for me is observing things. I am crazy that way," she breaks into laughter. "I was getting my bathroom renovated and I was really fascinated with the way the carpenters would mark their wooden planks and I thought I could incorporate that as a design. The key is to keep looking," she says.
Seriously non-serious
While she shoulders her responsibility to the trend-o-meter as a fashion designer, Masaba owes no concern whatsoever to the loudmouths that spell either criticism or sarcasm. "I don't take myself too seriously and I think people say stuff about me like she's got her parents to launch her and all because it irks them to see me achieve what I have at this age," she laughs. "However, I do consider criticism from people who matter, like Shefalee Vasudev. Also, most of the people who sit in the front row do not even know the difference between the French seam and a regular seam,” she smiles.
Regional value
Masaba has as many as four stores in the country, and is well aware of her prints being replicated. But she is happy about it as long as it does not eat into her market. In Chandigarh, her collection is available at Satya Paul, Sector 17. "I have many friends from Punjab and this region is quite savvy with trends, which I believe is a good thing," she says. However, to experiment with regional craft, like phulkari, Masaba insists that it be treated in an organic way.
Fashion and Bollywood
Though designers like Wendell Rodricks have vocally dispelled the idea of 'Bollywoodising' of fashion industry, Masaba feels that the involvement of Bollywood in fashion has only commercialised it. She says, "There is a showstopper for every fashion show and I really think that the showstopper must personify your idea of fashion and should go with the vibe."
Trend tips
"First, the neons are on their way out and the nudes are back," says Masaba while sharing with us some tips on fashion trends. "Also, wearing heavy clothes and jewellery which weigh you down are a complete no!" she signs off. amarjot@tribunemail.com
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Shades of grey
You may probably have seen Mohit Malik essay the role of an abusive husband, who relentlessly comes charging upon his wife with a belt in Zee TV's show, Doli Armaano Ki, where he plays Samrat.
However, it required quite an effort from his end to pull off the role of an abusive husband, so much so, that the first time he was offered the role, he turned it down without giving it a second thought. In conversation with actor Mohit Malik, we are acquainted with the actor's take on acting in television with respect to the constant variable, TRPs and his journey of becoming an actor, which was quite like an accidental development. "I wanted to become a cricketer and was introduced to acting only when I was at Amity Business School, where I was pursuing my graduation. I did a couple of plays at the youth fests and got my portfolio clicked," he says. He modelled for quite some time, but just for the heck of it. His journey as an actor began only when he received a call from Mumbai to act in a serial Kya Hu Main that never went on air. While the television industry opened its doors for Mohit, the conservative nature of his family regarding the industry, roped his dreams with a long list of stereotypes and the already existing family business, which they wanted Mohit to be a part of. "I was only given one month to prove myself in Mumbai, because my brother was leaving for Mumbai to pursue his internship. I auditioned and was selected to play a part in Kya Hu Main, which never went on air," he says. Mohit has been in the industry for over nine years now. He has done several shows, including, Miilee, Nach Baliye 4, Banoo Main Teri Dulhann, Surya The Super Cop, Mann Kee Awaaz Pratigya and Suvreen Guggal—Topper Of The Year. However, Samrat, he feels is the toughest role he has ever played so far. "Playing Samrat was the most difficult part. First, because I am not even close to being anything like him and second, because this character has so many shades of grey to him," says he. While he turned down the offer earlier, he later took to playing Samrat with a little convincing from his wife. Considering the ease with which he plays the role, Mohit shares that he has never been trained in acting, and that he learns much of it by observing other actors, who also inspire him in many ways. "I am not a trained actor and that has landed me in quite a mess at times. However, I observe and learn from actors like Irrfan Khan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui," he says. While he is happy about the evolution of television that is now a platform for stars like Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan, he attempts to sound politically correct while talking about the shows being judged on the TRPs they garner. "As an actor, I feel that television is getting better as far as the content of shows is concerned. TRPs don't affect me as an actor, but when a show is good and it is pulled off because of the fall in TRPs, it does hurt and that is the ugly truth about television," he signs off. amarjot@tribunemail.com
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Traditional cut
Taj's in-house lifestyle store Taj Khazana brings Benarasi saris to the City Beautiful. Rich magenta and emeralds, orange and greens, purple and pinks; dresses in intricate silver and golden zari really catch the eye at the Taj shopping centre. Each piece here has a story to tell. Weaved by master craftsmen on handlooms, each sari is a piece of art. A 'banarasi sari' is a must in any trousseau and there are authentic ones to choose from here. Then there are restored saris that bring out the glory of the bygone era. Saris, both in silk and cotton, are replete with traditional motifs.
Dinesh from Taj Khazana shares, "Some of the saris take as many as six months to weave. This traditional art, almost on the verge of extinction, was revived by the Tata group. After adopting some villages, they provided the weavers basic amenities and help of designers." Apart from saris (that range from Rs 9,000 to Rs 80,000), there is a range of suits (Rs 5,000 onwards), dupattas and stoles to choose from. (On till August 30)
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Double fun, little trouble
Jasmine Singh If only someone could pass this message to Shakespeare that the popularity of his plays has now touched the Punjab border; not that we know how he would react if gets the news of his play Comedy Of Errors being turned into a Punjabi film after getting a Hindi version in Angoor. But, we are sure he wouldn't be totally disappointed. So, for once, a Punjabi film has managed to get inspired in the right way.
When it is Smeep Kang, you can't help thinking about Carry On Jatta; the comparison is inevitable, but with DDT Smeep lifts himself from his laurels and rises up. The first twenty minutes are pretty slow, wherein you almost give up. But thereafter, the film picks pace and then it goes in the zip, zap and zoom manner! The film has no outlandish punches, they are subtle yet hilarious. You've read Comedy Of Errors or watched Angoor, no issues, DDT retains the basic plot by making very neat changes that don't interfere with the plot. The plot is now handed to the actors and they definitely increase the tempo of the script. The superstar of yesteryear Dharmendra is looking handsome and has delivered his shots well. Gippy Grewal, the actor-singer, has undoubtedly a great comic timing. In addition, Gippy in his leaner version is looking handsome. He can make you laugh with a straight face as well. Gurpreet Ghuggi deserves a round of applause for all the different situational punches. Both Gippy and Gurpreet created a laughter riot in Carry On Jatta; the two repeat the feat here as well. Poonam Dhillon is looking beautiful in whatever she has done. The two beauties Kulraj Randhawa and Minnisha Lamba look beautiful too, only that Kulraj scores a point in acting. As the film rolls, the director carefully connects all the errors created due to double identity, with the actors duly playing their part. Tera Mera Saath Ho and 26 Ban Gayi are the songs that one can fall in love with and foot-tap simultaneously. What keeps the trouble out of Double Di Trouble is the well-put-together climax. Yes, when the four (2 Dharmendras and 2 Gippys) come face to face, the camera hasn't justified the scene, but don't we say all is well that ends well! Double Di Trouble is far away from trouble.
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The peppy paneer!
Kandla Nijhowne
Curries, pakodas, bhurji, barbeque, even mithaai…the good old paneer morphs into countless avtaars across India, taking on the added tempering of every region. Loved by vegetarians in our country, paneer by itself has no distinct flavour. It lends itself easily to various masalas to enhance its taste. One such delightful dish is a kofta curry. These bite-sized dumplings can also be served as a crispy starter with a bowlful of chutney. While buying paneer, look for a fresh batch, which has a reasonably high fat content. It's the fat that will make the paneer soft and creamy in character. Keep in mind that paneer must not be overcooked or re-heated much. Excess heat will toughen the protein content, making the paneer leathery and hard. Method
Note: You can add 50 gms of mashed "khoya" to the kofta mixture to make them tastier. A more "mughlai" style gravy can be prepared by adding one of the following- cashew paste, hung yogurt or fresh cream to the bhuna
masala.
Ingredients
(Nijhowne is a Chandigarh-based culinary expert)
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Getting naughty
Directed by Kunal Deshmukh and produced by Siddharth Roy Kapur under UTV Motion Pictures, Raja Natwarlal, is a Bollywood crime-comedy film. The film features Emraan Hashmi in the title role, along with Humaima Malik, Paresh Rawal and Kay Kay Menon. Yuvan Shankar Raja has composed the music. One-time watch
I like the film for the sheer entertainment that it offers, but except that there is nothing more. Nevertheless, it makes for a decent one-time watch. Also, Emraan Hashmi is one of the reasons that make the film bearable. —
Ashita Baweja, student Over the top
It's an interesting film, only if it has not exceeded its time limit. Humaima Malik is an absolute disappointment and one catches her over-acting more than once in the film, which makes the scenes look over the top. — Vrinda Lekhi, student Good story
I really like the story of the film and Kay Kay Menon is a delight to watch. He is so effortless with his acting and the way Emraan manages to pull the film is commendable too. It's a decent watch in my opinion. —
Siddharth Sharma, businessperson (As told to Amarjot Kaur)
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Art with a difference
The lines are simple, colours loud; combining traditional with digital, George Freeman is out with his works called Time Machine. On at Alliance Française are George's tradigital art - caricatures sketched with hand, scanned on computer and coloured on computer too. And they tell a story.
Story of legendary painter Vincent Van Gogh and George's — together they are painting; flying kites, the potato-eaters and more is waiting to delight any visitor. One-line comments give a peep into the works. There are incidents from both —19th Century Post-Impressionist painter's and George's life. Not for nothing it's called Time Machine. Incidentally, Vincent Van Gogh became a life-changer (like he has been in many artistes' lives) for George Immanuel (then), a class 10th student. A chance meeting with artist Baldev Gambhir in his hometown, Amritsar, introduced George to the painter with Dutch origin who has influenced art in big way. Facing hardships, George supported himself by working side by side. Masters in Fine Arts from Government College of Art, Chandigarh, George went back to his hometown soon. Rendered lonely, George began expressing what he always wanted to but lacked courage to. And so was born Time Machine, which narrates the story of an artiste's journey with another across time. The works dot the walls of the art gallery at Alliance Française. One enjoys the journey the two take together. Be it George's loss of his pet white rat or flying kites together, the works have them together. There are references to Van Gogh's famous paintings — The Potato Eaters, The Starry Night, Sunflowers and to the painter's tragic demise. "I felt a kind of empathy with Van Gogh. And together in this series, I tell a story of his and mine." George admits that it didn't come easy to him. "I had been doing commercial work for long, but I wanted to do something that reveals the artist in me." The loneliness that awaited him in his hometown, post his studies in Chandigarh, proved to be a blessing in disguise for him. "I sat, found myself and learnt to express my inner self." (On till September 11) mona@tribunemail.com
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Bips gets steamy again
Bipasha Basu will soon begin shooting for her horror flick Alone. The actress, who will play conjoined twins in the movie, recently gave the mahurat clap for the film. The Bengali bombshell, who hasn't done steamy scenes on the big screen in a while, is set to raise temperatures with Alone. She was last seen in a passionate scene in Raaz 3 opposite Emraan Hashmi. Now, it is Karan Singh Grover's turn to romance her in the supernatural thriller. The actress maintains that while Alone is a horror film, it is also a beautiful love story. She says people will once again see her in her sexy avatar. Considering the huge fan following she gained post Jism, this is going to be one flick everyone is looking forward to.
Fighting crime
Shah Rukh Khan is the latest celebrity to become the ambassador for Interpol's Turn Back Crime campaign. The social campaign has already garnered support from celebrities like Jackie Chan, Lionel Messi, Fernando Alonso Kimi Raikkonen and it is aimed at raising public awareness.
Wedding bells
Nikitin Dheer, who was last seen as the villain in Chennai Express, is getting married on September 3. His ladylove is Kratika Sengar whom he met through his father. It is a love-cum-arranged match. God bless them!
Together for a cause
Arch rivals Kareena Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra will be seen together in a UNICEF docu-drama that promotes the development of a girl child and women's education. Well, that's admirable!
House arrest
Minissha Lamba and Maryam Zakara are likely to be locked up inside the Bigg Boss house in the latest season. Minissha has no movies and Maryam is famous as an item girl and supporting actress. Mugdha gets a job!
Madhur Bhandarkar's previous heroine Mugdha Godse is playing an ambitious and opportunist corporate climber in a movie called Ishq Ne Crazy Kiya. She is meeting corporate head honchos to understand her role and pick up nuances for the same. Bobby jasoos?
Bobby Deol, who was last seen in Singh Saab The Great, is all set to do a television show. Apparently he has been approached for a limited edition show on the small screen in which he will play a slick detective. It will be his television debut and the character suits him. Kajol retaliates
Karan Johar and Kajol are not talking because of some alleged unsavoury remarks that Karan Johar made against her husband Ajay Devgn in the recent past. Kajol stood by her husband. She and Karan did not even greet each other at a recent fashion show by Manish Malhotra.
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Finding Dimple
Dimple Kapadia talks about her latest film Finding Fanny from the casting to the prosthetics and more. Forcing Homi Adajania
True, I am not his favourite artiste. I threatened him, saying that I'll write his name in the suicide note if he didn't remedy this right away. But seriously, I simply love him and his talent. He is fantabulous. I did a brilliant film with him called Being Cyrus, and since then I've been a fan. I think he brings out the best in me. Cocktail vs Finding Fanny
Homi narrated the film's story during the making of Cocktail and I told him that I'd rather do this film than that. After the success of Cocktail, I thought that he wouldn't come back to me. But I am glad he did—I got to work with stalwarts like Naseer saab and Pankaj Kapoor and talented youngsters such as Deepika (Padukone) and Arjun (Kapoor). I felt rusty among them, but Homi looked out for me. Career graph
It is a very interesting career phase now and I am getting some lovely offers. Sometimes I don't feel like working anymore and then suddenly a role like this comes along and I feel trapped. After doing a film like Finding Fanny, I definitely want to do more work but it has to be interesting. Rosie's look
Yes, we have even used a prosthetic since it was needed for the character that I play. Then again, it is not the first time that I have worn one in a film; that would be Rudaali (1992). Itdoesn't matter how you look, what matters is you look the character. Censor's scissors
I think that they wanted to see me in a bikini but since I had a skirt on, they decided to cut the scene.
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Priyanka and her paranthas
Having built her physique to play the character of a national-level boxing champion, Priyanka Chopra is an inspiration for millions. While most of us believe that actresses starve themselves in order to attain the size zero figure, here is an example of a Bollywood actress who clearly breaks the convention.
Re-uniting with her Barfi Director on the sets of Zee TV's Cinestars Ki Khoj, Priyanka was glad to be judging the talent on the show alongside her mentor-Anurag Basu. While much has been said and written about their bonding and camaraderie since the time Priyanka and Basu did a movie together, the two did not leave a single chance to pull each other's leg. While everybody on the sets was surprised to see Priyanka eat continuously throughout the shoot, Basu said he'd experienced this side of PeeCee before! Sharing an anecdote from the sets of Barfi!, he said, "I remember one day, she had called for three parathas for breakfast and a 12-inch pizza and ended up gulping down all of it by herself at the shoot, not sharing a morsel with anybody." Adding further, he said, "Even if I drink water, it ends up turning into butter in my stomach. Wonder how none of what she eats shows up on Priyanka!" While the entire unit was shocked at the revelation, Priyanka burst out laughing. When the hosts of the show asked her about the secret behind her lean, trim figure, she said, "I believe that in order to stay fit and lose weight, one doesn't need to starve. One should eat in moderation throughout the day at short intervals. Moreover, I ensure that I burn it all by working out equally as much as I eat." Kudos girl, no wonder you're as fit and fabulous in every film!
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On the fit route
Actor Gunjan Utreja, who will be hosting a show titled Spirit Of India, is loving his new look as he keeps getting compliments. The actor has also lost weight recently and is looking leaner. He says, "Yes, I am leaner and fitter than before. There is no secret behind this. I am training four times a week; along with some good sporting activities like swimming and maintaining a healthy lifestyle." Gunjan is also growing his hair a bit. He adds, "For a long time I wanted to grow my hair and change the entire hairstyle. Luckily, I have been able to and more importantly, it's looking great. That's what I keep hearing all the time. I don't do things for others. I am happy with my new hairstyle. As a TV host I keep experimenting with my looks."
Eva out, Rukhsar in
Eva Grover who had signed on Rajan Shahi's Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya, as the mother of the lead character Raj, exited the show after few days of shoot. There are two versions of her exit. She claims she had a malaria relapse so though she shot for two days it affected her work, but the unit members claim she didn't give them enough time and threw tantrums. Soon Rukhsar was brought on board and the scenes were re-shot.
The Bigg delay!
Controversial show Colors' Bigg Boss 8 will soon be back on TV but instead of the date talked about earlier, September 20, buzz is that the show has been shifted to October. Although the promos are on air and the hype around the show starting to build, there is a delay. The show will air at 9 pm with TV shows Beintehaa being shifted from 9 pm to 11 pm and Rangrasiya wrapping up.
Parenthood calling
TV couple Karan Mehra and Nisha Rawal are on cloud nine. The couple who got married in 2012 is now expecting a baby. Grapevine suggests that the baby is due in February as she was recently spotted at a party with a visible baby bump.
New show for Mouni
Mouni Roy has been showing off her dancing skills on Colors' reality show Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, but now it seems she has impressed the top bosses on the channel too. Apparently, she has been signed on for a new show for the channel. Buzz is that it will be a big budget show and will see a grand launch post Bigg Boss.
Harshad is back
Harshad Chopra, who has been away from television for a while now, has signed up a new show. He will be seen in Humsafar on Sony essaying a Muslim character. The show is produced by 4 Lions Films banner producers of Qubool Hai.
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The year ahead
If your birthday is August 30...
Your birthday on August 30 shows dream of artistic expression; writing, painting, music. You will freely express your inner feeling and enjoy life more. You also dream of being more popular, likable and appreciated. Strong in your opinions, you always tend to think you are on the right side of an issue. The influence for this year is about emotional security, love and happiness. Finance and career are always important to you. When God closes a door, he always opens a window. Your window will open in December. Follow a diet of low calorie food and take herbal teas. Try not to worry too much about a minor psychosomatic disorder. Positive colours: Golden, Red. Select days: Sunday, Monday. Favourable numbers: 1, 4, 2, 7. Gems recommended: Yellow Sapphire, Ruby. Charity on birthday: Donate utensils to the needy.
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Astro turf
ARIES: You will be under some stress this morning. Do not attempt to get new plans going. Take the help of Gemini person. Stock brokers take a back seat. Work behind the scenes. TAURUS: Argument with your spouse is possible in the afternoon. You will have to watch your temper if harmony is desired. Give a little more attention to the creative and spiritual side of your life now. Tarot message: Over-optimism can lead to mistakes. GEMINI: Be sure to take full advantage of the good opportunities coming your way. No arguments with elders please. You will get what you expect. Your moods can be up and down. CANCER: Keep your spirits up putting forward a cheerful face. Look at stocks and saving certificates you hold. Creativity shines. Students: enjoy cheerful moments on the campus. LEO: The card 'Two of cups' promises many opportunities on the financial front. If working on a commission basis, you will be able to increase your earnings. Old people will have a comfortable night. Tarot message: You will get the help you need if you ask for it. VIRGO: A tricky day if you are hoping for spectacular results. It will be best to keep new ideas under wraps. Housewives: protect yourself against accident while cooking. LIBRA: A secret meeting with influential people will go off particularly well. Today your boss can promise a salary increase in the near future. This bodes well on the financial front. SCORPIO: "The queen of cups" opens the door for a new job offer. Do not become excitable. Avoid making partnership deals. Lovers: it is a good day for introducing your beloved to your parents. SAGITTARIUS: It is a fine day for starting something new. Businessmen: you can make a secret deal or alliance that can be very lucrative. A discussion behind closed door can work out very well. CAPRICORN: Your card "Ten of pentacles'' reveals that you plans that you have for saving are likely to meet with approval. Be careful, as you are likely to jump the gun and live to regret your actions. AQUARIUS: Do not try to make money the easy way. Romance is highlighted. The second half day favours social work. Women drivers: follow all safety rules. Tarot message: Open new doors that lead you in a more lucrative direction. PISCES: Do not take snap decisions today. The demands of your ego are not likely to be so strong, which gives you more sensitivity towards the world around you. Tarot message: Avoid a gossip session at the work-place. |
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Directed by Smeep Kang, credited for directing the cult film Carry On Jatta, Double Di Trouble, which is a Mukta Arts production (read Subash Ghai), has the best names of Punjabi film industry and a superstar from Bollywood, all in double the action and fun. Dharmendra, Gippy Grewal, Gurpreet Ghuggi, Poonam Dhillon, Kulraj Randhawa, Minnisha Lamba, BN Sharma, Karamjit Anmol, Rana Jung Bahadur and Avtar Gill. 
You share your birthday with Shobha Khote (August 30), who is a famous movie personality. Viju Khote (Sholay fame) is her brother. Her daughter too is in serials. Seema and Chhoti Behen are some of her famous movies. Shobha is still active in serials and stage shows, and will this way till she lives.