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Free period
Sitting on the bank of a river, Siddartha asked his childhood friend Vasudeva to observe the ferryman who was taking people from one end of the shore to other. "This ferryman and the water teach so much," Siddhartha had said.
Mahesh Bhatt owes his understanding to UK Krishnamurthy, and someone like Salman Khan has often mentioned failures have been his guru, they've taught him lessons none could. On Teacher's Day, a cross section of people, well-known in their respective fields, talk about those who have given them the most important lessons in life… a story from an old granny, a book that changed everything, a person who touched their life in a special way, a teacher whom they would want to thank…
Simple philosophy: Akhil Kumar, boxing champion Life is about being in the moment and if one accepts this and tries to live up to the moment, it is bliss. This is what I have learnt from Swami Vivekananda. He is my guru, my eternal light and his teachings have changed my life for the better. I look up to his teachings as a mantra for simple and blissful living.
Confidence level: Umesh Kant, theatreperson Late BM Shah, an acting professor at National School of Drama told me once not to be overconfident in life. This is one teaching that has remained with me, a teaching that has helped me in all walks of life. Even today, when I get on the stage, I am always confident about my performance, but never overconfident. And you bet, it has always helped.
Granny's wisdom: Sippy Gill, singer actor Who hasn't learnt stories from their grandparents? The one that I learnt from mine was what you give is what you get back. In other words, what you sow, so shall you reap. Whether, it is my personal or professional life, this lesson from my grandmother has always helped me to be a better person. I see it as the biggest lesson of life, coming from my grandmother.
Being objective: Mannat Singh, singer actress
I learnt my singing professionally from late Jeevan Singh, who was a raagi in a gurudwara in Amritsar. As a person, it is Dakshh Ajit Singh, who has changed me for good. Ever since he has come to my life, I see things from a different perspective, he has taught me to detach oneself from a situation and view it objectively. So, the positive changes that I see in myself today are because of him. And, the other person who has left a deep impact on my understanding of life is Osho. The way I look at myself and life are to a great deal because of him.
Of choices and responsibilities: Gunbir Sidhu, producer
Whatever I am today, whatever I have been able to achieve is because of my father Kulbir Singh Sidhu, a retired IAS officer. He is a philosopher and a great bureaucrat, he reads holy books by understanding every word, he takes keen interest in creative arts like theatre. And the most important thing, he has always let me be, I had the freedom to make my choices. At the same time, I was also taught to take responsibility for it.
Life’s lessons: Gavie Chahal, actor There can be no bigger teacher than the people around and the circumstances. The circumstances that I have faced in life have shaped me today. To fall and to bounce back is something that I have learnt from situations that I saw myself in. But yes, I had for a brief period looked up to Madhumati ji. She is the one who polished me to some extent.
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Reel-y inspiring
Who: Aamir Khan in Taare Zameen Par What we loved?
The critics and the audiences gave a thumbs-up not just to Aamir Khan but the way he steps into the shoes of Nikumbh sir and help the eight-year-old Ishaan. Rather help his parents accept his dyslexia and implore his artistic skills. What we loved?
Yet another favourite. It wasn't just Shah Rukh Khan playing a guitar that rocked but the idea of having a teacher who not just acknowledges but encourages blooming romance in young lives. Music was just an added bonus. Who: Naseeruddin Shah
in Sir What we loved? This film inculcated a larger-than-life persona. There is so much that a teacher can be. Not just a tutor, but a friend, a mentor, philosopher. Naseeruddin Shah fitted into the title character perfectly in this film directed by Mahesh Bhatt. What we loved? Higher education professors 'so come like this' in real life. A professor we dreaded and loved to hate onscreen. The film perfectly portrays a slice of present education system riddled with sky-high expectations and ruthless competition, where professors come with idiosyncrasies and children co-exist in a cut throat environment. Who: Amitabh Bachchan
in Black What we loved? What is being taught here was not numbers, neither quantum mechanics nor applied physics. In question was the dark and dingy life of an eight-year-old deaf, mute and blind girl. The film beautifully showcases the relationship and significance of a teacher in the life of a special pupil. Who: Robin Williams in Dead Poets Society What we loved?
Teaching English in the conformist 1950s to future doctors, lawyers, engineers was no mean feat. Only Robin Williams as the exceptionally inspiring John Keating could make them see value in verse and words. Who: Edward Olmos in Stand and Deliver What we loved?
If that is the way they teach calculus, then we are pretty much ready to learn. The film is the story of a high school teacher who successfully inspires his students at the brink of a dropout to learn calculus. The 1988 drama based on a true story fetched Edward a nomination for an Academy Award for best actor. A must watch. Who: Denzel Washington in The Great Debaters What we loved?
While it is the quintessential underdog-adversity-victory sort of movie, it is nevertheless really inspiring. Very inspiring. Denzel Washington is remarkable in this drama-based on a true story. A professor inspires students to form the school's first debate team, which goes onto challenge Harvard in the national championship. What we loved?
A thought provoking film where Julia Roberts doesn't just teach the history of art to girls at a conservative women's art college but also inspires them to seek more than marriage to eligible young men. Who: Sidney Poitier in To Sir, With Love What we loved?
Sidney Poitier beautifully essays the role of an engineer turned teacher who decides to teach rowdy students life's important lessons rather than pie charts and square roots.
manpriya@tribunemail.com
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Sizzling away
Made to resemble a Japanese tea house with windows and doors done in ornate wooden lattice, Plum Asian Bistro served Oriental food in the first year of opening its doors at Elante Mall, Chandigarh. To mark their first anniversary, they have rolled out an Indian buffet and Sizzler Festival.
With Indian food high on the demand list of its patrons, Plum, which has been serving Burmese, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Singaporean, Thai and Vietnamese fare, has introduced an Indian buffet. BBQ Buffet Tadka is typically Indian, menu card is shaped liked a truck, and has gol gappa and chaat for starters. The pre-set menu that's prepared fresh has a selection of six vegetarian and six non-vegetarian dishes. The rich main course comes with typical paneer lababdar, mix veg tawa masala, dal bukhara, subz birayani, kadahi chicken, mutton rogan josh, murg makhani and choice with Indian breads. But since its going to be a fresh preparation, one can customize it. You can pick up your choice of dal or selection of chicken, meat or fish. Ankit and Neha Juneja, co-owners, Plum, have also sizzler selection on offer. "People love the sizzler here. With weather taking a turn towards the winter, we thought sizzlers would be apt," says Neha. And they have an extensive collection — Crispy Fish Phuket Style Sizzler, Chicken Sizuan Sizzler, Chilly Chicken Sizzler, American Chopsuey Sizzler Veg and Non Veg, Tofu Mix Veg Sizzler in Hot Garlic Sauce. A BBQ-Buffet-Tadka is priced at Rs 800 for vegetarian and Rs 1,200 non-vegetarian. A meal for two at Sizzler Fiesta is around Rs 750. To mark their anniversary, there is an offer of two plus one on sizzlers and three plus one on buffet! (On till October 12) mona@tribunemail.com
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Taste & tell
The hospitality business is real tricky; especially if you're at the receiving end. Though the 'press' doesn't encounter many such instances during a press conference, this Thursday was rather fateful, as our servers were CITCO's Mountview Hotel, Sector 10.
Bringing to Chandigarh flavours from the streets of Chandni Chowk, Delhi, our hosts at Mountview were more than eager to talk about it; but, that's about it. They flaunt delicacies like Bedmi Sabzi, Patile Waale Channe Kulche, Haleem, Mutton Biryani, Galouti Kebab, Sitafal Ki Sabzi, Bharwa Tangdi Kebab et al on their menu. We would've liked to give our readers an insight into the taste and authenticity of the food, if only we would've been made to experience it! For the three-day food fest, the hotel has called on karigars from the lanes of Chandni Chowk to present for its customers live presentation of each preparation. Paranthas with standard stuffing —aloo, gobhi, dal, paneer and vegetable — have also been featured in the festival, besides desserts such as Stuffed Gulab Jamun, Ghee Jalebi and Firni Kuja. "The idea is to bring authentic flavours of Chandni Chowk's street food to Chandigarh," says Mountview Hotel's general manager, Jagan Bains. We're not sure if he is aware of the concept of 'food tasting' though! Chandni Chowk to Chandigarh is on at Rustles, Hotel Mountview, Sector 10, till September 7. Buffett is available for lunch and dinner at Rs 650 (including taxes). somya@tribunemail.com
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Tweetie pie
Preity Zinta "Now have a bunch of events to attend all over the US so will be travelling like crazy :p too much action in the month of September :D Ting !" - Yes, Preity. That's what actresses without work do, 'pretty up' events. Way to go! Shilpa Shetty "In Kerala fr an event, so picturesque, no wonder it's called gods own country:will jus post a pic" - We're hanging by a thread, Shilpa. 'Jus' post it already! Bipasha Basu "Good morning:Long day awaits! Butterflies in my stomach for 12 th sep #creature3d release!" - We understand, Bips. When releases are few and far apart, butterflies become inevitable. Hansika Motwani "Flying to tiruchi with @actor_jayamravi #Romeojuliet" - We're just glad you can still fly, Hansika. — Compiled by Somya Abrol
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star track
Sonam Kapoor was written off as a Barbie doll but she has proved her acting skills with movies like Raanjhanna and Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. She also has a razor-sharp tongue and she speaks her mind. She has taken centre-stage again in Khoobsoorat, produced by Anil Kapoor Films Company. Khoobsurat has Kapoor playing the misfit Dr Mili Chakravarty, a quirky physiotherapist practicing in a house of uptight royals. She talks about originality and more. Original choice Being an original is the reason I did this film. It's a Disney film for kids and I feel many young people today conform to what society thinks is the right thing. Personal victory I'm not rebellious. But I am who I am. I like to speak the way I speak and wear what I like to wear. In an industry where it's so easy to forget who you are, I consider this a personal victory. For example, some say that if I dress a certain way people will think I'm sexy and if I'm sexy then I'll be successful. But to me that's unnecessary. Because people only follow originals. See, if you look back and you have to learn from history, you see people who've been successful have always been... different. They've always had a certain idea of who they are. And it's not only about success, it's also about happiness. Growing up I studied in Singapore as a teenager. It's so easy to be a teenager in Singapore because you can make mistakes and still be safe. It's a safe city and you're stupid at that age. I wanted to get a tattoo at 15, pierce my tongue, pass out somewhere wasted. I did everything. Oh, I did every single thing! I was 17 when I graduated. Confusion and confession I was very confused at the point when Saawariya happened (in 2007)… I think Delhi-6, a year later, is when I knew that acting is what I wanted to do. But I was still a little confused. By Raanjhanaa, in 2013, I found some confidence in myself. I realised what drives me is to do things that are different. Raanjhanaa is an original story and Zoya is a character that had different shades. I could do something with the character. She is not, like, a loser... not like a commercial heroine wearing short sequined dresses and dancing around. Sense of achievement Working with Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra for Delhi-6 and then Bhaag Milkha Baag gave me a sense of true collaboration. I feel like I can be more of an artiste with him. Acting is an art and I want to be an artiste, desperately. I'm not somebody who is trying to act till 32, and be, like, the most successful person ever, then get married and stay off. I want to create people with my emotions and my body language.
Listen to the Qissa
After gaining major appreciation at film festivals around the world, the Irrfan Khan starrer Qissa, directed by Anup Singh is all set to release in India on September 26 under PVR Director's Rare. Set amidst the ethnic cleansing and general chaos that accompanied Partition in 1947, this sweeping drama tells the story of Umber Singh, a Sikh, attempting to forge a new life for his family while keeping their true identities a secret from their community.
The first film to shoot under the Indian-German co-production treaty, Qissa is an international co-production between India, Germany, Netherlands and France. The film secured funding from the National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDC), the Dutch Film Fund, Eurimage and German funds Medienboard Berlin-Brandenburg and North Rhine Westphalia (NRW). The film stars Irrfan Khan, Tillotama Shome, Rasika Duggal and Tisca Chopra in pivotal roles.
Praise worthy
Mukesh and Nita Ambani watched Mardaani over the weekend and they loved it. They personally congratulated Rani Mukerji who is obviously becoming more and more elated by the day with Mardaani's all-round success. The movie is good the second time around as well.
Is Katrina avoiding Sallu?
Bollywood diva Katrina Kaif is no longer Salman Khan's family friend. Despite breaking-up, she maintained a cordial relationship with Salman's family over these years but now the equation has changed. She is no longer Salman's family friend and this Ganpati puja, she has skipped the Ganpati celebration of Salman's family.
Salman's sister Arpita brings home Ganpati idol every year and performs puja with full devotion and all the family members and friends actively take part in the celebration. This year too Salman's former friends like Sangeeta Bijlani, Elli Avram took part but Kat being in the town skipped the event. According to a close source, Katrina has been busy attending the promotional events of her forthcoming film, Bang Bang and so she did not turn up for the event. It is also known that she has attended filmmaker Karan Johar's Ganpati festival at his home with boyfriend and actor Ranbir Kapoor. Though separated Kat has been maintaining a cordial relationship with her alleged boyfriend and mentor Salman. Even today when in trouble, she look up to Salman for help rather than to seek help from Ranbir Kapoor. Recently, when she was involved in a tiff with Cine Costume and Make-up Artists' Association, she sought help from Sallu. Salman has continued to play Godfather for Katrina. He has launched her sister Isabel in Dr Cabbie.
Bhansali clears the air
Sanjay Leela Bhansali is all geared up and raring to go with Bajirao Mastani. He talks about casting and his equation with some people in the industry.
Salman Khan's advice about not throwing things
on the set… Salman has done a lot for me. He was, is and will always remain a close friend. I don't know if the feeling is reciprocated. If he has said this, he means it and still cares for me, deeply. Karan Johar's comment about his 'negativity' and 'darkness'... I've never understood why someone, who you think is a friend, would publicly talk ill about you. Karan and I have had great moments together. Bajirao Mastani vs Shuddhi… I had spoken to Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone about Bajirao Mastani during the post-production of Ram-Leela. As far as I knew, Hrithik (Roshan) and Kareena (Kapoor) were doing Shuddhi. I would never steal a friend's actors. I had my cast in place, so I didn't need anybody's permission. I've never had an ambition to become the most powerful man in the industry. I'm in the happiest phase of my life. I'm working more than 12 hours a day. Bajirao Mastani is looking exciting. I don't understand why anyone would say I've gone into darkness.
Bonding over brand
Anushka Sharma and Siddharth Malhotra recently shot for a coffee brand and are now seen in print and television ad for the same. They bonded well during the shooting. We wonder if their respective partners have anything to worry about.
Another biopic
After biopics on sportspersons like Milkha Singh and Mary Kom, now a film on hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand is in the pipeline. Manmohan Shetty's daughter Pooja Shetty has apparently bought the rights. Shah Rukh Khan was earlier reported to be playing the hockey legend. However, he doesn't have any dates.
Steamy encounter
Surveen Chawla of Hate Story 2 fame has appeared in another steamy video alongside Rajneish Duggal for Saawan Aya Hai which is a promotional song for Creature 3D. And guess what? Surveen had to make Rajneish comfortable during the shoot.
Super Nani scared of SRK?
The makers of Rekha-starrer Super Nani are yet to get her dates for the film's promotions. Interestingly, Super Nani will hit the theatres a day after Shah Rukh Khan's Happy New Year and the makers of the film are slightly worried as the promotions for HNY have already started and are in full swing.
Pakistani actor Imran Abbas Naqvi may not be able to come to India for the promotions of the movie Creature 3D due to visa issues. Bipasha Basu has been promoting the film by herself so far. OOps: Imran Abbas Naqvi
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chatter box
Sophie Choudry, who recently got eliminated from Colors' Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, talks about her journey in the show, future plans and more.
How was your journey on the show? It was emotionally, physically as well as mentally challenging and definitely memorable! I'm extremely proud that I was the one contestant who tried not only a new dance style each week, but also a new look. I'm heartbroken that I was eliminated at this stage, but I'm proud of how I took risks and conducted myself on the show. I think I managed to win a lot of love and respect. Do you think if you had not injured yourself you would have reached the finale? My injury was devastating and much worse than people think. I don't like to create unnecessary drama, so I put up a brave front. I wept backstage and for the next two weeks, I was on injections and pain-killers. But I emerged stronger. My injury is not the reason for my not reaching the finals. I don't know the exact reasons! However, you will see what a tough fight I have given in the face-off and how brilliant my teen ka tadka act was. The judges called it a 30 act! I'm proud that even while leaving I made a mark. What was your best moment on the show? Every week that I was safe was a wow moment because it meant that audiences were voting, they wanted to see me on the show and were connecting with me. Who do you think deserves to win Jhalak this year? Everyone has worked hard. Ashish shoots all day and rehearses at night, which is never easy. He's lovely. Akshat is a little kid who has got this far only due to his hardwork. He has been the most consistent and deserves all the happiness. Punit and Mouni have always been the favourites, but since Gurmeet and Drashti have won it in the past, it would be nice if for a change a TV artist doesn't win this year. What's next now? I'm actually on my way to a film narration. One journey may have ended, but a beautiful one is about to begin. Any plans to do more reality shows? I said no to Jhalak for the past three years, not to mention every other reality show that was offered to me. It's not something I ever wanted to do but at least Jhalak gives you the chance to showcase your talent; you learn while on the show and I'm sure I have emerged a better dancer and a stronger person. — HRM
End of the game
If the latest rumours are anything to go by, television show Ekk Nayi Pehchaan, which started in December 2013, will go off air in a month. The show revolves around a saas-bahu relationship. Sound boring right? Well, we are not surprised with the ratings either!
At loggerheads
During the shoot of Madhubala - Ek Ishq Ek Junoon, Drashti Dhami and Vivian Dsena have often disagreed. Rumours have it that both lost it at the 'wrap' party. They allegedly said a lot of nasty things to each other.
Three cheers!
It is celebration time for the entire team of Shashi Sumeet Production's show Diya Aur Baati Hum on Star Plus as it completes three successful years. The show, which has maintained its leadership position, continues to draw support from viewers across the country and the globe. The cast and crew celebrated the achievement by cutting a cake on the sets. Sandhya (Deepika Singh) said, "I am so happy to be a part of such a wonderful team. I thank Sumeetji and Shashiji for giving me this great opportunity.”
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Mary Kom Producer: Viacom 18 Motion Pictures, Sanjay Leela Bhansali Produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Viacom 18 Motion Pictures, Mary Kom is the inspirational biopic of India's woman boxer who fought against all odds to participate in the Olympics and won the hearts of millions across the globe. Mary Kom is based on the true story of Mangte Chungneijang Mary Kom, India's first known female boxer. Priyanka Chopra essays the role of Mary Kom. This biography narrates the journey of an individual who at the peak of her boxing career gave it up to embrace the joys of motherhood. Mary Kom has been directed by debutant director Omung Kumar. The film's music has been composed by another debutant Shashi-Shivamm. The film also stars Sunil Thapa, Darshan Kumar, Rajni Basumatary, Zachari Coffin and Shishir Sharma. |
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Astro turf
ARIES: Your card ‘Six of wands’ bring a gracious and aesthetic influence in your life. You are likely to face several interruptions and disruptions, which will make it difficult for you to stay on schedule; so be careful
Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 27.
TAURUS: You draw 'Two of wands' to invoke mental power and intelligence required for achieving professional goals. Work will be smooth sailing. Do not become reckless. Just enjoy yourself.
Tarot message: Prevent trouble by taking timely action. Lucky colour: Red.
Magic number: 35. GEMINI: You are awakened and energized by the fiery 'Knight of Wands'. Your creative abilities will be at their peak and innovative ideas will gain recognition if you take care to present them properly.
Tarot message: Don't reveal your plan of action to anyone. Lucky colour: Peach.
Magic number: 27. CANCER: 'The Ace of Pentacles' leads to actualisation of personal and professional plans. You will be contemplating changes in your routine, but you need define what you actually want.
Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health. Lucky colour: Jade.
Magic number: 29. LEO: 'The Lovers' inspire you with love and creativity today. If you have spent time finalising the details of your pet projects, now is the time to take the initiative.
Tarot message: Make compromises outside and come to terms within yourself.
Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 46. VIRGO: 'Two of wands' suggests luck in speculation. You will be in an irritable mood and can react aggressively when faced with dissenting views. Chance encounters can lead to
Tarot message: Take one step at a time. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 55.
LIBRA: You draw 'The Ace of Wands', which puts you through a touching and transforming personal experience. Caring conversation and heart-to-heart talks flow easily.
Tarot message: Follow your chosen path. Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 26. SCORPIO: 'The Priestess' infuses pure and exalted influences in your life. Applying for a dream job? You might just get in with your track record and qualifications. Your love life will be good.
Tarot message: Do not expect too much from others. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 52. SAGITTARIUS: 'The Wheel of Fortune' spins in some good fortune. You will be unable to concentrate on tasks at work. Indecision about a situation can preoccupy your thoughts.
Tarot message: Lack of caution can leave you in losses. Lucky colour: Forest green.
Magic number: 43. CAPRICORN: Your card 'The Strength' gives you self-esteem and a good feeling about yourself today. Work will be smooth sailing and your ability to get things done will be appreciated by colleagues.
Tarot message: Don't take hasty decisions. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 41. AQUARIUS: Your card 'Judgment' is reversed, so be careful not to let public opinion go against you. You will be enthusiastic about developments at work, but listen to colleagues as they can help.
Tarot message: Try to accomplish longterm tasks. Lucky colour: Bottle green.
Magic number: 32. PISCES: 'The Magician' brings a day of change and mutation, whether you want it or not. You are bored of your routine and want to do something different. Spending quiet time alone will help you relax.
Tarot message: You will receive a useful tip at the stock exchange. Lucky
colour: Yellow. Magic number: 44.
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The year ahead
If your birthday is September 5...
Number 5 is an intellectual vibration. These are 'idea' people with a love for variety and the ability to adapt to most situations. Ruled by Mercury, you will be adaptable, freedom-loving, romantic, resourceful, witty, fun-loving, curious, flexible and accommodating; sometimes, non-committal, irresponsible and inconsistent. Promising news will fill you with happiness, making you hope for a promotion or some improvement in your career. Success will come your way during the second half of next year. Positive colours: Green, Turquoise. Select days: Wednesday, Friday. Favourable numbers: 5, 6. Gems recommended: Emerald, Ruby.
You share your birthday with Vidhu Vinod Chopra (September 5, 1956, Srinagar), who studied direction at the Film and Television Institute of India. Chopra has since then been involved with a number of acclaimed films, including Parinda and 1942: A Love Story.
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Dear teacher, there is so much we would like you to be. We'd want you to be as real as it gets and still as reel as these brilliant actors stepping into the classrooms. Inspiring, attractive, meaningful, strict but not so strict. All in the same period. Save for Cameron Diaz in Bad Teacher, they better make these celluloid classics compulsory for the teacher's orientation programme.
Who: Shah Rukh Khan in Mohabbatein 
Who: Boman Irani in
3 Idiots 
Who: Julia Roberts in Mona Lisa Smile 
Charity on birthday: Donate fruits to the needy.