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Ganesha my muse
In its course of inspiring art and artists, mythology has defined itself traditionally and vividly as the standing proof of culture and tradition across the country, be it the murals of gods and goddesses at the Ajanta and Ellora caves in Maharashtra or the Aihole Temples of Karnataka.
Nevertheless, Ganesha remains one of the most popular muses of artists, even today. In our endeavour to find out what fascinates the artists about the Elephant God, we stumble upon some obvious features that define Ganesha, including his pot-round belly, the elephant's head, and the general disposition that make the cuddly and happy-go-lucky God, a low profile, yet significant God in the hierarchy of divinity. This Ganesh Chaturthi, we speak with some artists in and around Chandigarh to discover what influence the artists' interpretation of Ganesha as a muse. "I think it's about the physical form of Ganesha, which allows much experimentation. However, it depends largely on the artist's interpretation of his character too," says Sekhar Roy, a Bengali artist. "I prefer to paint him without the astras (weapons) in his hands and employ a vibrant palette of colours to do justice to his playful disposition," he shares. This is also his way to spread the message of saving the elephants. Meanwhile, Bijay Biswaal, who has often painted Ganesha, shares that it is purely for the liberation to experiment and explore different forms of creativity and thereby spirituality, he paints Ganesha. "I am really fond of painting Ganesha, with special emphasis on the colour palette. It's a spiritual experience to paint Ganesha. The deity for me is like the amalgam of all the elemental forces of nature," he shares. Known to have done a series on Shiva, city-based artist Ravinder Sharma paints Girja Suwan and Prakriti Putra, two of his paintings, which feature Ganesha in the lap of nature, nestled closely with his parents, Shiva and Parvati. "Everything about Ganesha is symbolic of his qualities. For instance, his face symbolises strength, and his sawari (conveyance) symbolises the importance of the smallest being in the eco-system. Also, the reason why I was prompted to paint Ganesha was essentially because his body and structure are in rhythm," he says. "The form of Ganesha is an amalgamation of real and ideal. The society who adores 'this form' sincerely recognises Him even by a small curve or point," he adds. Meanwhile, Viren Tanvar, a well-known city artist, shares that he has always been fascinated with the unusual roundness of Ganesha, which inspired him throughout. "I was influenced by the murals at Aihole caves and that's when I thought of painting Ganesha. I have experimented on his forms in different mediums, including oil on canvas and relief print," he shares. "Also, most of the people invest in the paintings of Ganesha. In fact, I remember that one of the bureaucrats in Delhi would give blank canvases to the artists asking them to paint an image of Ganesha. I think Ganesha artwork is famous mainly because of his reputation of being the mangalkaari and because he makes for an interesting figure," he adds. Also, Baani Sekhon, a city-based artist, shares, "Mostly my subject is deities from diverse segments. However, Lord Ganesha, one of the most influential mythological figures, has been my favourite. His distinctive, one of a kind, physical appearance fascinates the artist in me." She adds, "Stylizing his individualistic icons is a delight, each has a deep meaning making it even more interesting to illustrate. Also I like to use fresh and vibrant colours. Ganpati as a theme gives me the liberty to experiment with fusion of various colours and patterns." Among the other city artists, Satwant Singh, Kavita Singh and Narinderjeet Singh Maloya, who have captured Ganesha's form. From Kavita's metal plate Ganesha masks to Narinder's white marble sculpture, artists have explored Ganesha in its spiritual and physical form and it still stimulates their creativity. amarjot@tribunemail.com
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Knot worthy
Chandigarh boy Aparshakti Khurrana, an RJ and actor, is all set to get hitched this weekend. Expect a big fat Punjabi wedding. Aparshakti, well-known actor Ayushmaan Khurrana's brother, is a multifaceted guy just like his brother; has successful radio show in Delhi and two films in his kitty —Saat Uchakkey and Babbu Ki Jawani.
In love with music, Aparshakti is looking forward to make his friend his life partner. In a quick chat with us, he opens up on the love of his life… City connect She is a city girl. Aakriti is into accounts and works for Evalueserve in Gurgaon now. We met in Shiamak Davar's dance classes some years back here in Chandigarh. She moved to Delhi and I have been three too. It's only six seven months back that we started dating. I think two things are most significant while choosing life partner - you should be friends first and have the communication going. We do talk for hours. I thought it was time to take this relationship forward. Will you marry me? From friends to lovers, yes, I was the one who did the proposing part. The proposal was subtly filmy - it was in a lift, when we were out for dinner. It was an instant 'yes'. We had doubts on whether to get married this year or next, but luckily our families clicked and they were all for it, so here we are. Guest list Wedding is going to be a family affair. I am going to make papa mamma dance. Most probably they will groove to a Shammi Kapoor number, most likely Yeh chaand sa roshan chehra or Aaj kal tere mere pyar ke charche; bhaiya bhabhi have picked up a Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana number. I and Aakriti will have Ishq bulava from Hasee Toh Phasee to be our wedding number. Raghu Ram and Rajiv, my co-actors Karan Wahi and Rhea Chakroborty would too be part of the wedding. Shoojit Sircar and Rajkummar Rao may show up too, wish John Abraham and Ranvijay were here too but both are busy shooting. One thing for sure, music is going to be a big part of wedding for that's what comes naturally to me. mona@tribunemail.com
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Baking blokes!
What do two engineers do to break their ‘job cycle’? It'll take thousands of guesses before you reach the answer — ‘they open up a bakery together’! As odd as it sounds, two mechanical engineering graduates from PEC decided to do ‘something of their own’ and put their moms’ inspirations to use with Buddies Bakery, in Sector 46. With the likes of Uttam and Gobind being just around the corner, what's different about Buddies? Well, except for their delectable Cake Pops, the fact that it's young owners — Simranjit Singh and Saurabh Chopra — are delivering quality treats at competitive prices. Being a self-proclaimed foodie, Simranjit says, "We knew 46 isn't the kind of sector one would expect a quality baker in; that's the outlook we want to change. We are bringing in a lot that is different. Take our Cake Pops, for instance, or the Italian Biscotti or even the Red Velvet Cake."
And their pricing promises not to burn a hole in your pocket. Their most expensive cake, the Fresh Fruit Cake, is priced at just Rs 600 for a kilogram. "Good food doesn't have to be expensive. And, innovation isn't a prerogative of the rich," says Saurabh Chopra, who took inspiration from his mother's baking to delve into hospitality. Besides the usual cakes, mousses and Swiss rolls, savoury snacks such as Mushroom Corn Spiral Roll, Paneer Spiral Roll, Zinger Burger, American Toast etc are also worth a try at Buddies. somya@tribunemail.com
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The healing touch
…is what best-selling author and energy-healer Roxana Jones says about Healthy Living through Dosha Healing (Ayurveda), the recent book by Dr Sonica Krishan launched in Chandigarh on Friday. A story that addresses basic Ayurveda principles that come handy in day-to-day living is sure an amazing idea for a book when holistic living is the latest fad. The idea came to Sonica through a young NRI who was keen on knowing it all about Ayurveda. "I met this girl working in America and she shared how youngsters are too eager to embrace natural eating as well as living style. We exchanged numbers and kept in touch; she was keen to learn more and more about our traditional system…and so came the book," says Sonica. The book elaborates within the story the three basic prakritid (constitutions) —vata or air, pita or fire or kapha or phlegm — and how to self-heal. With four books to her credit already, Herbal Healers, Home Remedies, Healing through ayurveda herbs in your Kitchen Garden, Healing through Ayurveda - Tips on Dosha Understanding and Self-care; the latest one is kind of a sequel to the fourth one. "For healing we have to take care of our body, mind and spirit all together, and the book is a step in that direction," says Sonica, who has written extensively for various publications. Apart from Ayurveda, she has done advanced studies in yoga and naturopathy from Punjab University. Expect her next book to be either poetry or on spirituality! Healthy Living through Dosha Healing (Ayurveda) has been published by Partridge India. mona@tribunmail.com
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One for the bride
How can a weekend go by without a designer exhibition? The more, the merrier. A Million Dollar Affair presents Cocktail, a two-day wedding and lifestyle exhibition that puts together western-wear, bridal-wear, accessories, jewellery et al under one roof. In total, the event is expected to put together as many as 75 exhibitors showcasing fashion, jewellery and interiors.
Among the participating labels are Ameeran by Ms Niharika, who is putting together bridal dhotis with kurtis. “Gotta Patti work on lightweight suits is also what I like to do,” she shares. Then there’s Closet Affair by Priyanka Ahuja. She shares, “My forte is light wedding wear. I feel that brides want to look good but at the same time be comfortable, that is why we are increasingly witnessing a trend where wedding trousseaus are becoming much lighter and ‘dressy’. Among other participating labels are Sutra, Divas Diseno and Panache. The Dressing Loft, yet another participating label, promises bodycon dresses, crop tops, midi skirts. The You by Simran assures Bollywood replicas. Just in case we left anything, there’s always the exhibition to go back to and browse. — TNS
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first-day-first show Directed by Omung Kumar and produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Mary Kom is an Indian biographical sports drama film based on the life of the Indian boxer Mary Kom. The film stars Priyanka Chopra in the lead and the story as well as screenplay has been written by Saiwyn Quadras. Rob Miller of ReelSports, the sports action director for Chak De India and Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, coordinated the sports action sequences for the film. Sunil Thapa, Darshan Kumaar, Shishir Sharma and Zachary Coffin also star in the movie.
Must watch Aakriti Bhalla, student Very interesting Jasjeet Singh, student Good mix Sushant Sharma, private company employee Sporty note Harman Singh, student (As told to Amarjot Kaur)
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star track
Homi Adajania's quirky comedy Finding Fanny has been selected for the Korean premiere at the prestigious Busan Film Festival - the biggest film festival in Asia. Being hailed as the movie to watch out for, Finding Fanny is set to release on September 12. Producer Dinesh Vijan says, "It feels great! Busan is fast emerging as one of the more serious and hugely respected international film festivals. It gives Finding Fanny a perfect exposure to a widespread international audience. One of the reasons we made this film was to release it internationally to include a non-Diaspora audience and this is an encouraging first step towards that." Director Homi Adajania adds, "It's pretty cool to be showcasing at the Busan International Film Festival because it is the top festival in all of Asia. Big names come to Busan and I know that last year they had an over 200-thousand strong audience come in from all over the world to watch the chosen films. So yes, it feels very good that Finding Fanny has been invited there." Deepika Padukone, who plays the character of Angie, says, "I know that the Busan International Film Festival is prestigious and is widely considered within the top 10 festivals in the world so having our film invited there is very exciting because it will reach a massive and varied international audience. It's an amazing moment for us and that too just before the release of the film. We thank Busan for bestowing this honour on us." Arjun Kapoor, who plays the character of Savio, says, "This is great news for the entire team of Finding Fanny. It's a moment of pride and joy that a prestigious film festival like Busan has given us such recognition." Finding Fanny is an off the wall, comical story about five oddballs who venture out to find Stefanie Fernandes (Fanny); in the process, they discover a strange sense of solace and love amongst each other, and end up seeing a point to their previously pointless lives. The film has been produced by Maddock Films and is being presented by Fox Star Studios.
Suzanne’s lips are sealed
Suzanne Khan and Hrithik Roshan are not longer a married couple. The couple announced their separation in December last year and the legal procedure has been completed. The alimony has been decided and the duo will legally get divorced in October this year. Suzanne has moved on in life with her two sons, Hrehaan and Hridhaan and she is playing a single mother to her two sons and totally involved into her interior deigning business.
Suzanne has dropped Roshan from her name and she is known as Khan now. She even doesn't want to talk about Hrithik in public or any talk show. She is going to be the first guest in Raveena Tandon's show, Simply Baatein to be aired soon. Before giving her nod to be a part of the show, she made it clear to the actress that no question should be asked about her ex-husband. In the show, Suzanne will mainly speak about designing. A source says, "She made it clear that there will be no questions related to Hrithik Roshan. Secondly, she wanted to be addressed as Sussanne Khan. She was willing to talk about her parents and children and of course, home because that's what the episode was all about."
Arjun set for a revolution
After working as an assistant director and associate producer on several films, Arjun Kapoor made his acting debut with Habib Faisal's romantic drama Ishaqzaade (2012). Since then there has been no looking back for him. In a quick chat, he talks about films and more...
Your ambition is… To get my teeth into the skin of challenging characters which are complex to play on screen and make a name as an actor who can be dependable to the core, especially after I got a lot of accolades for my performance in 2 States. If not an actor, you would have been? A director, because I am infatuated with film-making. You had to put on a little more weight for your role in… Ishqzaade, because obviously I could not afford to look slim in front of Parineeti (laughs). You had to shed a lot of weight for your role in… Aurangzeb, because I played the son of an underworld goon like Jackie Shroff and wanted to take on his empire. What did you learn from your dad Boney Kapoor and mom Mona Kapoor? I learnt practically everything from both my dad and mom. I am just an extension of both of them. You do not want to either see the original version of any film or read the book because... I do not want to be influenced in any way by either the original film or the book from which the film is adapted. What's next? Right now, while Finding Fanny with Deepika and Dimple is being readied for release, Tevar is still being shot and I am also committed to do Revolution 2020.
Parting in peace
Saif Ali Khan and Dinesh Vijan were friends and professional partners at Illuminati Films and now they have split up professionally. Dinesh Vijan is running his own company Maddock Films and they might collaborate on films in the future under another banner altogether.
Professional differences Illuminati Films was founded in 2007 by Saif and Dinesh and their hits have been Love Aaj Kal and Cocktail along with the moderately successful Go Goa Gone. Agent Vinod and Lekar Hum Deewana Dil have tanked. Saif says that their last film together was Go Goa Gone, technically speaking. They have been thinking of working separately for a long time now. Amicable spilt Saif says that by splitting up, Dinesh can make the films he wants to and he can do the same. They can also collaborate with each other and new people. Saif clarifies that he will not star in home productions for a while. He clarifies that the split was amicable and the duo are still friends. Biopic on hold Saif says that the biopic on his father, Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi has been put on hold for a while because he needs a good and meticulous director for the difficult film. He may carry out the project in the future.
Clash of the Titans
Rumour has it that the first episodes of Salman Khan and Aamir Khan's reality shows will be aired on the same day. We hope not at the same time. Because both the Khans are a treat!
On sick leave
Amitabh Bachchan had to call off his shoot due to ill-health. He was shooting for Kaun Banega Crorepati and had to call it off due to fever. The shooting will resume on September 15.
Shruti Haasan has apparently turned down an offer of an item song in her father Kamal Haasan's Vishwaroopam 2. She is busy with Welcome Back at the moment and is looking for meaty roles.
For MJ’s sake
Tiger Shroff is a huge Michael Jackson fan. He is not a party person but he hosted a party on Michael Jackson's birthday which is August 29 at his place where he and his friends got together and heard his music and danced and stuff like that.
Lifted to new height
Actress Nimrat Kaur, who was seen in The Lunchbox, is now all set to romance Akshay Kumar in a commercial film titled Airlift. Directed by Raja Krishna Menon, the action flick revolves around a business tycoon who helps in the world's biggest human evacuation from Kuwait.
Tanisha’s new venture
Tanisha Mukerji is starting a production company with her mother Tanuja. They will make regional movies and Hindi movies that appeal to their sensibilities. The house will be called T Mukerji Films.
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chatter box Ankita Lokhande, who essays the lead role in Zee TV's Pavitra Rishta, is off work and is currently admitted to the hospital owing to an appendix operation. The actress had a bout of severe pain and was immediately admitted to a leading hospital in Andheri, where she is currently being treated and has been advised bed rest for ten days. Her absence for the next ten days has resulted in a major setback for the show in terms of shoot schedules and making episode banks. Given that Ankita is the female lead on the show and portrays a double role — Archana and Ankita. So, she is required for a majority of the scenes being shot. The current storyline also focuses on Ankita as she is seen fighting a battle to win over her daughter Aarushi, played by Angel. The makers are currently focusing on the alternative track of Pari and Naren where Pari's mother-in-law is trying to explain to Pari that if she is not careful with Naren and doesn't give him enough time, then Ankita will get closer to Naren and eventually snatch him forever. While everybody on the sets is wishing for Ankita to get well soon and return to the shoot as soon as possible, Angel, in particular, seems to be missing Ankita quite a lot. A little birdie from the sets informs that the two of them have really grown fond of each other in the little time that they have spent together. Ankita would mostly be seen spending her break time between shots with Angel on the sets, playing or drawing. We hope Ankita gets well soon and we get to see more of her on the show.
Smriti — the teacher
Mouni Roy, who is winning appreciation for Jhalak Dikhhla Ja, has high regards for her teacher. Ask her about her teacher in the entertainment industry and she says, "In the TV industry, the first person I learnt from was Smriti Irani who was my co-star. I was made wary of her in the beginning, but she turned out to be extremely kind and patient. I even borrowed books from her. I remember her showing me how to say my lines or where to take pauses.”
Denying rumours
Minissha Lamba took to Twitter to deny rumours about her participation in reality show Bigg Boss 8. 'Bigg boss??? Me??? hahahhaa rumours rumours,' she wrote. Lamba is currently seen in Dharmendra's Double Di Trouble.
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Astro turf
ARIES: Be particularly wary if dealing with property matters. Get to bed earlier than is normal for you. Don't let dogmatism close your mind to varied possibilities. If an old friend needs you support, lend it. Tarot message: Do not expect too much from others.
Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 52.
TAURUS: Expensive plans will have to be held in check for the time being. An optimistic and compassionate turn of mind will create a passionate aura. Spiritual issues and quests can lead to some deep thinking.
Tarot message: Follow your chosen path. Lucky colour: Sea green. Magic number: 26. GEMINI: You might have some difficulty controlling your emotions. Consider getting involved in charitable work. Agreements that have been dragging on for some time can be successfully negotiated. Tarot message: Avoid being hurried.
Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 55. CANCER: Plug away steadily in the background. Try to improve your overall financial situation. Consider your course of action seriously before jumping into anything new. Tarot message: Make compromises outside and come to terms within yourself.
Lucky colour: Yellow.
Magic number: 46. LEO: There will be an improvement in finances. Business matters are fairly well under control. Overstrain can effect health. Your moods can be up and down all day. A former friend might turn up on your doorstep.
Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health. Lucky colour: Jade. Magic number: 29. VIRGO: No need to make any important move. Conditions are too weak at the moment to contemplate fresh operations. You should not be too critical of co-workers. Children can cause worry. Tarot message: Don't reveal your plan of action to anyone.
Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 27.
LIBRA: Aim at teamwork today. An accident can occur if you don't keep your mind on the job. Be especially careful when using electrical machinery. A change
of home or job is possible. Tarot message: Prevent trouble by taking timely action.
Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 35. SCORPIO: Do not give into lethargy. Emotional people can change their mind. Earnings can be increased if you try. Deception from opposite sex is on the cards. Do not add to your debts.
Tarot message: Don't reveal your plans to your competitors. Lucky colour: Ebony.
Magic number: 27. SAGITTARIUS: An early morning disturbance can wake you up a lot sooner than usual. Renovations can progress well, especially if you have help from friends. Your energy level will be high. Tarot message: You will receive a useful tip at the stock exchange. Lucky colour: Yellow.
Magic number: 44. CAPRICORN: The day is going to be rather slow; plan ahead. Take advantage of other people's experience. Family will be much better company than friends this evening. Focus on meditation or yoga. Tarot message: Try to accomplish long-term tasks.
Lucky colour: Bottle green. Magic number: 32. AQUARIUS: A financial matter that has been delayed should move forward now. Social activities will not be worth attending.
There should be no special problems to deal with at home. Tarot message: Don't take
hasty decisions. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 41. PISCES: This day will be marked by only lack of activity. Business will tick over smoothly enough. Hobbies are occupying. Scholars: read a good book at bed-time. Avoid speculation. Do not exercise too much. Tarot message: Lack of caution can leave you in losses.
Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 43.
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The year ahead
If your birthday is September 6...
Number 6 is a peace-loving, stable and harmonious vibration. Ruled by Venus, you will be compassionate, stable, family-loving and trustworthy. If you are in a good relationship, you can expect to make an important decision about living together or purchasing a house together. Through your positive attitude you will achieve success in new projects. There will be moderate gains through property, vehicle or jewellery. This is the year of great fortune and prosperity. You can reach your objectives. Positive colours: White, Cream. Select days: Friday, Thursday. Favourable numbers: 5, 6. Gems recommended: Diamond, Emerald.
You share your birthday with Rakesh Roshan (September 6, Mumbai), known for directing films with the title always beginning with
the letter ‘K’. He directed his son in Koi... Mil Gaya (2003), and its sequel, the science fiction superhero film Krrish. Rakesh will continue to shine in production till 2018.
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'I recommend this amazing story to anyone who wants to live happily ever after.'
Telling it in a story has sure made her job interesting. As for the plot, three friends get together after nine years to go on a holiday. With their lives not really going smooth with various maladies — physical, emotional and professional — they seek help of Dr Ayur Wizard. 
Charity on birthday: Donate utensils to the needy.