Happy-go-lucky
Sonu Sood believes more in deeds than words. A true hard-worker, he is keenly looking forward to his upcoming movie Happy New Year
Jasmine Singh

He is happy…he feels new and this has definitely been a good year for him. Stylish without a tinge of extra effort, candid without any political crutches, actor Sonu Sood is every bit the person we have known except for the number of projects that keep adding weight to his kitty. In Chandigarh, talking about the new look that Godrej Interio gave to his house, Sonu sees dreams turn to reality, in real as well as reel life.

Home sweet home

I always wanted to make changes to my home in Moga, but for some reason or the other it did not materialise. And then my mother passed away and everything came to a standstill. Much later, I happened to watch the episodes of Godrej Interio's Upload and Transform. These people understand homes like no one else. They gave a completely new look to my home, something I wish I could have shown to my mother.

Happy times

Happy New Year is a project that I have always wanted to do. It has everything — dance, drama and action. When I got the film, I had some major date issues; I would be shooting for two films in one day. It was hectic but every bit was worth it. Happy New Year is a film where everyone has the same duration of role, right from Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone to everyone.

Dreams come true

I was into modelling and doing fashion shows, till I moved out to work in movies Down South. My friends and family members tell me that I have come far, and I know how hard I have worked for all this and how much effort I still have to put in. There is no harm in dreaming; in fact always have a dream, but don't forget to work towards it.

Punjabi by heart

I love my home town Moga; I love Punjab and everything about it. Naturally, I like Punjabi films as well. I wouldn't mind doing one if the script excites me.

Fit ‘n’ fine

Sonu gets compliments by the loads for his chiselled body. Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan have praised him for his well-toned body. "I indeed feel flattered, but health is something that has become a part of me now. This isn't something that I adopt for a film or a role. Keeping fit is a routine that is as important as eating and breathing. I like to work-out with my co-stars, I don't go out looking for a state-of-the-art gym; I work-out wherever I get a chance.

Co-stars are fun

I have had a great time working with the entire team of Happy New Year; I bonded well with everyone. We were family in the real sense — Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, Farah Khan, Abhisekh Bachchan, Boman Irani and Vivaan Shah; we had such fun playing tricks on each other, eating together, travelling and of course working.

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Seeds of rebellion
Clément Montfort, a French documentary filmmaker, rues the over-use of sterile seeds in his country through his first documentary, The Seeds War
Amarjot Kaur

Clément Montfort
Keen eye: Clément Montfort
Photo: Pradeep Tewari

Intense disposition, meaningful perspective... journalist and cinematographer by profession, Clément Montfort has already worked with channels like Arte, France 2, France 3 and France 5. In Chandigarh to screen his first documentary titled The Seeds War at Alliance Francaise, he shares notes about the film and more. Co-directed with his colleague, Stenka Quillet, The Seeds War essentially dissects the process of agricultural produce while questioning the relevance of seeds as a commodity or a vital resource to be shared for the benefit of humanity.

Clément begins his introductory note with a serious tone, "Before the World War II, the farmers would plant their own seeds and sometimes exchange them with other farmers. However, with the advent of industrialisation, the farmers have lost the right to plant their own seeds," he says. Clément explains the agricultural situation across India and France, which he believes have impacted the farmers in a huge way.

Clément rues the over use of sterile seeds in France, which restrict their re-use and the monoculture farming in India, which has increased the use of fertilisers and pesticides. "Firstly, in France, most of the framers lost their lives in the second World War. Due to it, companies started giving the remaining farmers a hybrid variety of seeds that promised a good yield, but the seeds of could not be used again. So the farmers had to buy seeds again from the catalogue," he says. Clément questions the liberty and rights of the French framers, who are not allowed to cultivate or grow a crop if the seeds aren't bought from the companies.

While talking about India and its agriculture, he points out the issue of BT Cotton and the monoculture, which deteriorates the quality of land and the farmers' financial condition in equal proportions. "I have shot this documentary across the cotton belt of India, where the framers were given BT Cotton, the produce of which was good only for a year and the next year, it landed them in losses as well as debts," he says. Clément makes a special mention of environmental activist Vandana Shiva, who has for long been fighting the war for seed independence and free distribution of seeds across Maharashtra.

The 52-minute documentary will be screened at Alliance Francaise in English on Tuesday from 6.30 pm onwards.

amarjot@tribunemail.com

Simply Sufi
Singer Kavita Seth was inspired by Sufi music during childhood. She puts the learning to good use now...
Mona

Some things are destined to be…just like Kavita Seth was destined to be a Sufi singer; only that she took a circuitous route to getting there. As the singer, made famous by Iktara (Wake Up Sid) and Tumhi ho bandhu (Cocktail), gears up for her album Trance with Khusrow's release, she is content that the years of work have paid off.

Born in Bareilly, Kavita's parents would take her to a dargah and listening to qawwalis there laid the foundation of the Sufi singer that's he was to become later in life. "Listening to qawwalis was such an enriching haunting; the poetry and melody was like a web," recalls Kavita.

Early marriage took Kavita to Delhi and soon she was blessed with two sons. It was then that she did her post-graduation in music and Hindi literature. "Ghazal concerts took me around the globe, but yet I felt like I was in search of something," says Kavita. Her search got over in the year 2000 at Jahan-e-Khusrau festival, New Delhi.

Singing with Abida Parveen, and listening to Sufis from across the world, she found her calling. "The artistes at that festival weren't singing for the audience. They were in their own zone, enjoying their experience and passing it on to those listening. I knew my calling there and then," says Kavita. Not only has she sung, but also read considerable Sufi writings.

Family zone

In fact, her latest album, Trance with Khusrow, is what she and her son Kanishk have worked on for four years. "He was barely 14 when we started with one song. He kept on revising, reviewing and working on it. One song followed another and the album released by Sony Music has 10 songs in total, out of which two are instrumental. "It was a monumental task," admits Kavita. "Sufi rock or fusion have been tried before and have worked, but blending Sufi with trance has never been done before," says Kavita, who had the major consideration to make sure that Khusrow's words got their due significance and were not lost in music. "I am pretty happy with the final outcome. Sufi lovers will get to know what trance is all about and trance lovers will get a taste of Sufi."

The album's first song, Aaj rang hai, has already been released. Although sung by Sufi stalwarts, Kavita did not play with the basic rhythm, but wasn't shy of lending her flavour. "When one is in creative zone, little one bothers about reception, comparisons. Ek mera bhi rang hai…"

In time, when most are happy doling out singles, Kavita agrees it took quite a bit of boldness to come out with an album. "We are happy Sony had faith in us and we are aiming at a global release.'

Strong voice

Playback singing is what Kavita started pretty late. Iktara got her recognition and awards; Tumhi ho bandhu was a massive hit. "I never thought my voice was suited for playback singing. I chose to do these songs because they were lyrically brilliant." Tumhi ho bandhu's success got her offers and offers but not many that she accepted. "In Bollywood films, there is little for a female singer to do today. All in all, it's just item songs that come in their share. Yes, I had plenty of offers for such numbers but that's not what I am comfortable with," Kavita puts the record straight.

Up next

She is now working on a project on Amrita Pritam, which will have live concerts and audio recordings. "Amrita Ji wrote such beautiful compositions but she is not sung much, maybe because her writings are bold." Maulana Rumi is what she aims to bring big time into India next. "I totally adore Rumi. He is one man who has given some 67,000 verses. That's a huge project that I am working on," she signs off.

mona@tribunemail.com

the ‘in’ side
Let’s go to the movies!
Plan a home theatre in a way that makes the experience worthwhile
Renu Soni

If we had the space, most of us would say yes to a dedicated home theatre. The sound and picture quality can be equally impressive as that of a multiplex. And food, I guess whatever we order mum to cook! But in order to experience those perfect few hours, initial planning of the home theatre is most essential.

Shape & size

A properly shaped room will dramatically improve the acoustics and help you get the most out of your sound system. The room width should be 1.6 times the height and the length should be 2.6 times the room height. The ideal space is 20 feet long and 13 feet wide.

Right location

A home theatre should be relatively isolated from the rest of the house. Good options include-a wing off the family room, closing in the open second-storey space such as a landing, or converting a spare bedroom that's at least 12 by 12 feet.

Frame & insulate

Insulation is most important here. Pay special attention to insulating the floor, ceiling, exterior and interior walls. Loosely packed glass wool can help keep the sound of movie explosions from careening the rest of your home. It won't block the noise completely, though. You'll need to add additional sound barriers after you pre-wire the room.

No windows

The fewer the windows the better; they are hard surfaces that reflect sound and admit light that can produce reflections on your viewing surface. Heavy curtains and shades help, but that means closing blinds or drapes every time you turn on your home theatre system. If you must, your best option is automated blackout window treatment to seal out light.

On the floor

Wall-to-wall carpet, with a new cushy pad underneath, absorbs ambient sound and contributes to cosiness. Alternatively, a large rug will also serve.

Wall decor

Regular plaster of Paris walls are a decent surface appropriate for home theatre walls. However, break up large flat surfaces with furniture or panelling. Don't add framed art with glass - it's too reflective of sound and light. Other options include acoustic wall panels designed specifically for home theatres. These are called 'sound absorption' panels, and they help modulate low and high frequencies, preventing echoes.

Colour palette

Paint your walls as dark as you can stand them or alternatively use custom dark fabric panels. These enhance style and sound quality. Bright colours reflect light that's especially distracting when there's a brightly lit scene on the screen. Stay away from gloss or semi-gloss sheens, choosing reflection-fighting eggshell or flat paint instead. Go with neutral browns, tans and olive. Stronger colours, such as red and blue, will give an odd cast to any ambient light and may affect the colours you see on your screen.

Speaker placement

A typical home theatre features 5.1 surround sound, meaning there are five full-range speakers and one low-range specialist, the woofer. You'll place three speakers and the woofer towards the front of the room, and the two remaining speakers on either side and slightly behind your viewing position. Keep speakers at least 20 inches from walls. The best sound for you may come only after experimenting with speaker placement.

Screen size

The temptation is to equate screen size with increased viewing pleasure, but there are limits. You want an immersive experience, but not a display so big you're swinging your head from side to side in an effort to take in all the action. You're looking for the right combination of display size and viewing angle. The best viewing height is to have the centre of the display screen at eye level.

Angle wise

Experts place the best viewing angle between 30 to 40 degrees. Meaning, if you would draw a triangle from the edges of the display to your nose, the angle of the apex (the angle that points at your head) would be 30 to 40 degrees. This allows you to take in all the action with minimal, comfortable eye movement.

Optimum distance

Ideal viewing angle can be expressed simply as distance, too, usually 1.5 to 2.5 times the diagonal width of your screen. That means you should sit no closer than 7.5 feet from a 60-inch-wide TV, and no more than 12.5 feet away. This formula works in reverse too. If you know your viewing distance - say it is 8 feet - then you can select an optimum display size. Eight feet is 96 inches. Divide by 2 (a nice round average of 1.5 and 2.5) and you'll get 48 inches. So a good HDTV display for your viewing distance would be about 48 inches wide (measured diagonally).

Movie memorabilia

Display shelves for movie memorabilia such as action figures and souvenirs will add to the ambience. Framed or laminated classic Hollywood/Bollywood posters on the walls make for a movie lobby mood but don't use glass as it has a hard surface and will only reflect the sound.

Last but not the least, don't forget the popcorn!

(Soni is a Chandigarh-based interior designer)

Of pain & reflection
Dr BK Pannu, who has come out with a compilation of poems in Urdu, Parwaz-e-Takhyan, opines regional languages should also be given due importance
Amarjot Kaur

Sometimes, creativity flourishes in adversity and lends an expression to the chaos within. Last year, Dr BK Pannu's husband, who was diagnosed with cancer, passed away; and for two months while he was shuttling between hospitals and treatments, Pannu's constant companion remained her worry, sadness and a pen, which translated her emotions into words on to a few sheets of paper. Little did she know that those couplets would form the content of her new book, Parwaz-e-Takhyan, a compilation of poems in Urdu.

Having penned as many as six books, BK Pannu has many literary accomplishments to her credit, including the Sahitya Academy award for outstanding contribution in Literature and the Shaane-e-Adab award by the Indo-Pak Tanzeeme Ahsasaat. "It took me as many as two months to pen this book, but during that time I was going through a rough patch, the melancholy of which marks the undertone of the book," she says.

Pannu, who has also written two books in Punjabi shares that Urdu remains her favourite language of expression because of its sweetness. "Urdu is a very sweet language and it has a way of connecting with poetry," she says. In her book, Pannu lists a series of self-written nazms and ghazals along with a few nagmas or geet (songs). "When it comes to poetry, I seek a lot of inspiration from poets like Bahadur Shah Zafar, Faiz Ahmad Faiz and Ghalib," she shares.

As for the prevailing trend, which witnesses many young Indian authors picking up English as the language of expression, Pannu says, "I agree that the knowledge of English is important and quite significant too, but not at the cost of regional languages. In times as these, it is imperative that we give equal importance, if not more, to the regional languages as they are a part of our culture."

Doc Talk
Flaunt a gorgeous back
Dr Sukhdeep Kaur

With the festive season almost here, it is just about time to take out that gorgeous backless blouse from the closet that you had been saving for a special occasion. But before you decide to assemble your outfit, you need to ensure the 'back' that you are gearing up to flaunt, needs to look its perfect best!

Considering that the back is one of the most difficult parts of the body to reach, it often has accumulation of dead skin due to oils and pollution. These factors can make the skin look dull and rough. One of the best ways to ensure that your back is dullness-free is by exfoliating and scrubbing to get rid of the dead skin. Let go of the soap and pick up the loofah as well as shower gel that will help remove dead skin, leaving behind fresh skin that is soft and smooth. After the scrubbing, always moisturise for hydration. You can use creams that contain retinoic acid, lactic acid and glycolic acid. They contain exfoliating agents that help gently peel off the old skin, thereby allowing the regeneration of new one.

Acne/pimple breakouts: Back acne is troublesome to treat. Back pimples could be due to excessive dandruff in the scalp, oily skin or hormonal influences. This requires comprehensive treatment protocol from oral to local application of medicines under the care of a dermatologist.

Acne marks: This is a common problem where cosmetic procedures like body spa, Miami and Neostrata Peels are beneficial. Peels are purified fruit acids applied on the area for exfoliation of the skin and 5-6 peel sessions at an interval of 15 days are sufficient for removal of acne marks.

Chicken-pox scars: These are pits and depressions, which are remains of aggressive acne and chicken-pox breakout. Fractional laser session is best to treat the scars. Fractional Laser Resurfacing triggers the Collagen Neogenesis, which helps fill up the scars.

Pigmentation & tanning: Try salicylic acid and Jessner's Peel, which is also cost-effective. Q-swtiched Nd-YAG Laser is another option for quick treatment for marks, tanning and pigmentation.

Back hair removal: This festive season flaunt a silky, hair-less back with US FDA approved diode laser.

(Dr Sukhdeep is a Chandigarh-based dermatologist)

Flower power

Ferns N Petals (FNP), the largest retailer of flowers in India, has further strengthened its retail presence in Punjab with the launch of its first exquisite store in Mohali. Located in Phase VII, Sector 61, the shop is just like the company's other stores across the country. The company has established a network of 190 retail stores across India keeping in mind the rising demand in tier I and tier II cities.

Share Satbir Singh and Jatin, franchise onwers, Ferns N Petals, "It has been our constant endeavour to offer our devoted customers with unique floral designs and an unmatched shopping experience. We understand the aspirations of people in emerging markets. Today, Ferns N Petals delivers across 400 cities and towns across India and as many as 155 countries worldwide.

The floral boutiques of Ferns N Petals offer a vast variety of fresh flowers and unique arrangements; artificial and dry flowers, and an exclusive range of scented candles, candle stands, imported Italian glass vases, exclusive gift accessories with intricate carving, photo-frames, designer gift items, and more.

Soul satisfying

Oregano, the Italian eatery at JW Marriott, brings forth an eclectic dining experience as part of Soulful Saturdays, a new addition to the dining experience at Oregano. Soulful Saturdays is a weekly all-dayer of soul music, art, and soft rock played by renowned artistes. Discover the trattorian spirit of dining and satiate the gastronome in you with delicacies at JW Marriott's authentic Italian restaurant Oregano.

This Saturday, rock to the tunes of The Light Ear Band and revive your spirit in the Indie Rock performance, while you enjoy Italian tea with Chef Alessio Banchero, the new Italian Chef at Oregano. He brings along 18 years of experience in making authentic Italian dishes in five-star hotels and fine dining restaurants across the globe.

The Light Ear Band is a group of young individuals passionate about music. They like blending genres, playing and feeling music filled with intoxicating sounds that appeal to the masses. They are a hit amongst those who listen to alternative rock, classic rock and retro. A few of their past gigs include Rabbi Shergill Album Launch 2014, Kingfisher Ultra Fashion Week 2014, V India Fest Goa 2014 and New Year Eve @ Chandigarh Golf Club 2013. — TNS

star track
Super hard, super fun...

Lorde
Big chance: Lorde

There was great buzz in September of Lorde's new song for the latest movie in the Hunger Games series. The song titled Yellow Flicker Beat debuted on the Billboard Charts just a day back and shot straight to number 2 in a matter of few hours. The latest news however is that the talented singer and song-writer, Lorde has put together a dream team of musical artists such as Grace Jones, Duran Duran's Simon Le Bon, Diplo and Charli XCX for the film's complete soundtrack which will be released soon. Lorde's association with the movie starting back in 2013 with her cover version of the classic song Everybody Wants to Rule the World by Tears for Fears. However, the new single Yellow Flicker Beat is an original composition for which Lorde herself penned the lyrics.

Speaking about the first single, Lorde said in a statement, "Basically I wrote the song specifically for the movie, it wasn't something that I had to draft up previously. I re-read the books, and I just wanted to tap into everything that Katniss is feeling in that film and what's the crazy stuff that goes on. One of the things that happened in the book which to me felt like this crazy turning point was her best friend Peeta tries to kill her, he's been brainwashed and tries to strangle her. It just felt like something so irreparable and something that the characters couldn't turn back from. I just wanted to make something kind of dark and haunting."

Further expressing her emotions on being chosen to curate a soundtrack for the movie, Lorde said, "I got approached to curate the soundtrack a few months ago and I was like 'OK, this sounds super fun but super hard… which was pretty accurate. It's been a crazy process, super intense. No one gives some random 17 year old from New Zealand the opportunity to soundtrack a major motion picture… It's been very cool and I'm so glad that I've had the opportunity."

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie Pitt pays tribute to Jolie through T-shirt

Actor Brad Pitt paid tribute to his wife and actress Angelina Jolie with a handmade T-shirt. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button actor was spotted wearing a white T-shirt with a hand-drawn picture of Disney film's villain Maleficent on it. Jolie portrayed the character of the evil witch in the film with the same name, released this summer.

The 50-year-old actor wore the T-shirt when he was walking with his family at an airport in London Oct 9. — IANS





Dynamic duo: Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie

Look, who’s back!

Rock On fame Luke Kenny, who was then seen in films like Bombay Boys and Rise Of Zombie will now make a comeback in Bollywood after a long hiatus. The actor/ director has signed another Bollywood venture in which he will be seen in a grey shade character. Luke is currently working on his body for the same and will be seen doing some high octane stunts in the film. This is said to be a challenging character so far and will be seen in completely different avtar. After winning hearts by his heart warming role in Rock On This will be surely one film of Luke in which his role would be interesting enough to watch out for.

According to the source, "Luke has just signed a film. It will be an action drama and will Luke will be seen doing some high octane stunts for the first time. He is currently hitting gym for the same and has been working out really hard to build up his body in a perfect manner. Luke has never played such kind of role in his career and is excited about the same. It's a challenging role which has grey shades in it."

Kareena is a blessing in my life: Karisma Kapoor

Actress Karisma Kapoor says her actress sister Kareena is more like a friend to her than a sibling. The 40-year-old actress, who was last seen in 2012 supernatural thriller film Dangerous Ishq, said she and Kareena share a strong bond.

"She is my sister and we are very close. I think she is more of a friend to me than just a family member. We share a great bond and she is a blessing in my life," Karisma said in interview.

The Zubeidaa actress, who had a successful career in 90s' and 2000, says it has been a rare instance when two sisters have successfully worked in the same decade. "I think there has never been a precedence where two sisters in Bollywood have been successful working simultaneously as heroines in same decade or same generation. I think we have been lucky and fortunate to have had great careers," she said.

Though they share a close bond as sisters personally, Karisma says professionally they never interfere in each other's decision. Asked if she is worried that Kareena is rejecting many film offers after marriage, Karisma supported her sister.

"She is married and wants to pick and choose the work she is doing. It is completely her choice. She is been that kind of person. I think, right from her first film, she has done whatever she has wanted to do in her life, and I think that is the kind of person she is and we respect that."

Karisma, who went against her family to enter Bollywood, says she would never enforce anything on her children, Samiera and Kiaan, on what they want to be in life, including becoming an actor. "I am a kind of parent who will let them do whatever they want to do in life. Whether they want to be an actor or not be an actor. I would never enforce anything on them," she said — PTI

In search of true love

Rahul Khanna
New role: Rahul Khanna

Rahul Khanna, last seen in Love Aaj Kal as Deepika's suitor, will now be seen making a splash with his latest offering Fireflies where he plays a lead role in the movie along with Monica Dogra. After taking a hiatus for the good part of three years, Rahul will soon be seen in the movie set to release on October 31.

When asked what made him stay away from the silver screen for so long, Rahul said, "There's no particular reason. I guess that's just the way it turned out. I had been slated to be a part of a couple of movie projects in between which, unfortunately, didn't end up working out". The actor, known for making slightly unconventional choices in his career is now all set to reignite the love with the silver screen.

Fireflies is the story two estranged brothers, one who is a successful lawyer and the other who lives by the day. The film traces a tragic incident in the lives of these two and their journey to find true love. It delves into the complex dynamics of human relationships.

Getting real

Known for his unusual antics off late and making crazy headlines, Shia LaBeouf reportedly cut his own face for a scene in his upcoming war drama Fury. Starring alongside Brad Pitt, Shia's co-star Logan Lerman felt his cuts on his face weren't looking real enough. Known for his absolute craziness, Shia later walked up to his colleague and actually cut his face with a knife to make the bruise cut more real. In a recent interview, Logan told a publication, "We were in make-up and they were putting cuts on Shia and I said, 'Yeah, yeah, it looks good.' And Shia was like, 'No, it doesn't look real.' Then he walks out into the hallway and says, 'Hey man, wanna see something fun? Check this out...' and he takes out a knife and cuts his face. And for the whole movie he kept opening these cuts on his face. That's all real." It apparently didn't end there. This was followed up with his need to pull off an actual tooth from his mouth as it was a requirement of the character. Lerman said, ""I mean, he didn't do it himself, he did go to a dentist and asked them to pull his tooth out but yeah, what an odd request."

chatter box
To a dreamy beginning

Navi Bhangu with Ekta Kapoor (R)
Role call: Navi Bhangu with Ekta Kapoor (R)

Punjabi actor Navi Bhangu will be starring in Ekta Kapoor's latest show, Yeh Dil Sun Raha Hai, which starts from October 16, on Sony Pal. In a quick chat, he talks about his new show and more.

How do you feel about bagging an Ekta Kapoor show?

Honestly speaking, the feeling hasn't sunk in yet. I am walking on air because Ekta is someone whose shows I used to adore and enjoy watching, back home in Jalandhar. I did many shows after moving to Mumbai, nine years ago, but with this show, my dream has finally come true.

What is Yeh Dil Sun Raha Hai about?

The show is bound to strike a chord with many hearts. Set in Patna, the show tells the journey of Poorvi (Aparna Dixit), the daughter of a senior government employee and Arjun (me), the spoilt son of the local coal mafia. Initially, Poorvi and Arjun can't see eye to eye, but steadily get drawn towards each other and eventually, go on to combat all odds and family antagonism for their love. Unfortunately, both are destined to be apart. Yeh Dil Suna Raha Hai is thus the story of two star-crossed lovers and their journey of adoration and hatred.

Does your character have negative shades?

My character has grey shades because he is the spoilt son of a rich family and is arrogant. But, at heart, he is a good person. I prepared for my character with whatever the director and Ekta suggested.

How was it like working with Aparna Dixit?

She is a nice person, easy-going and always willing to help me with a scene by making me feel comfortable.

Who are the directors on your wish list?

All of them, actually, but it's my dream to work with Karan Johar and Aditya Chopra.

Sticking to principles

Actor Vivek Dahiya, who recently entered popular TV show Veera as Rajveer Thakur, talks about his role, career and more.

Rajveer Thakur
Soft at heart: Rajveer Thakur

How special is your role?

Rajveer is basically like a coconut, soft from inside and hard from outside. He is very idealistic and has zero tolerance towards crime. He is an orphan and holds that in his heart. Having a family is a big thing for him, since he misses it. He is a man of his principles.

Have you watched Veera before?

Yes, I did. My mother used to watch it regularly, so I did catch a glimpse of a few episodes. I'm not a daily soap person. But, one day she forcefully made me sit through the show. I really liked all the characters and the plot. It is different! It's nice to see the way they have brought out the culture for the viewers.

How is it working with Digangana Suryavanshi, Sneha Wagh and Shivin Narang?

They all are very sweet and we get along really well. There has been absolutely no pressure from anyone on the sets. All are very welcoming and warm. It's an ideal place to shoot.

What are your hobbies, other than acting?

In the current age of technology, I love surfing online, watching movies and documentaries. I am also a fitness freak and I love kick boxing. I also like to travel around.

How do you see yourself after five years?

I'm a very spontaneous person and I don't really have long-term plans. But in five years, I would like to see myself as a successful actor.

Watch and win!

Diwali is right around the corner and as families get together to celebrate the festival, Zee Cinema, the Hindi movie channel, is set to entertain its audiences with an exciting line-up of movies all season, through the Har Din Diwali film festival. Commencing on October 13, mega-hit movies will be aired every day at 8 pm on the channel to keep the festive spirits high, right till October 25.

Diwali is nothing without a bonanza offer and that's exactly what Zee Cinema has in its kitty for its viewers. And, in a bid to engage with its viewers, Zee Cinema will also be hosting an exciting contest this Diwali. From October 13 to 25, viewers who tune in to the channel during the Har Din Diwali film festival can win the chance to enter a lucky draw for a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh every day by answering two questions correctly.

Kick-starting the Har Din Diwali film festival is the recently released and one of the most popular Bollywood movies this year, Main Tera Hero, starring Varun Dhawan, Ileana D'Cruz and Nargis Fakhri. Besharam starring Ranbir Kapoor and girl-next-door Pallavi Sharda is next on the list to regale viewers this Diwali. With more such fun and lighthearted comedies blended with a twist of drama, romance and action, Zee Cinema is all set to spread the festive cheer and help cough up some laughs across families. The festival will also showcase movies such as Ramaiya Vastaviya, Himmatvala, Phata Poster Nikla Hero, Dhamaal, Holiday, Phir Hera Pheri, Race 2, Chennai Express and Enemmy.

Parineeti’s tribute to jawans

Parineeti Chopra
In action: Parineeti Chopra

Actress Parineeti Chopra recently shot for NDTV's special Jai Jawan at the Indo-Pak border in Rajasthan. Praising Indian soldiers, Parineeti tweeted: "What an honour to spend time with the jawans. It's been a life enriching experience for me and my team, we never realise the difficulties faced by the Indian army to keep us safe."

"Living in the desert and braving the heat, they live a grueling life away from their families just to keep all of us secure. Thank you brave soldiers, thank you NDTV. I will never forget this all my life. Truly humbled and overwhelmed," she added.

Jai Jawan is a show in which our country's best-known film stars visit some of these unsung heroes of the Indian Army.

Drawing to a close

After a two-year run, TV show Pyaar Ka Dard Hai...Meetha Meetha Pyara Pyara will be going off-air. The show is all set to end on November 1 and it will be replaced by Ashutosh Gowariker's upcoming show, Everest.

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Make sure you are doing your best. You could be in line for a promotion or recognition in the form of an award. Employment affairs are satisfactory. Your interest in overseas affairs is likely to stimulate. Tarot message: Rivalry would push you to do your best. Lucky colour: Baize. Magic number: 52

TAURUS: Friction in the workplace can slow down production and frazzle everyone's nerves. Words said in the heat of the moment may not be true expressions of real feelings. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Lotus pink. Magic number: 25

GEMINI: Feeling of love and strong impulses come together in an exciting but frivolous mix. Take it easy. It would be pointless to attempt to force the pace. Deal with routine jobs. Do not neglect a family matter. Tarot message: Play your cards close to your chest. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 40

CANCER: You are unlikely to get very far if trying to put new plans into operation. An illness could mean having to take the day off work. Putting energy into your domestic life can give you the lift you need. Tarot message: Take no chances. Lucky colour: Blonde. Magic number: 61

LEO: Sacrifices today can put you in a far better place in the future. Bring a breath of fresh air into your life by rearranging your environment. Go shopping for some interesting artwork to add ambiance to a room. Tarot message: You need to be creative. Lucky colour: Chocolate brown. Magic number: 24

VIRGO: Make an early start today and get to work as soon as possible. Not only will you impress the boss, but you will feel an immediate sense of achievement. Cash may not come smooth. Tarot message: A positive and caring attitude heals old wounds. Lucky colour: Citric blue. Magic number: 33

LIBRA: You can find it too easy to get bogged down in the daily grind and caught up in your natural ambition to get ahead. Problems of others may have to be attended to. Avoid going out tonight. Tarot message: A penny saved is a penny earned Lucky colour: Lush green. Magic number: 62

SCORPIO: A day of heavy spending. Patience and time are regiment to make progress. The advice of elders, professionals and people with greater experience than yours can make all the differences. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid inbuilt delays. Lucky colour: Pale yellow. Magic number: 59

SAGITTARIUS: Cheer up! Excitement and happiness is on the cards. An increasing income means more luxuries. Socialising and attending gala events can be costly. Just as well, this is an easy going day. Tarot message: Strive for perfection at work. Lucky colour: Blood red. Magic number: 63

CAPRICORN: Grinding through committee crowds and grid lock traffic will be annoying and frustrating. Make this a day about retreat and solo activity. Someone you meet today may give you a useful business tip. Tarot message: Involve yourself in a new project. Lucky colour: Golden yellow. Magic number: 57

AQUARIUS: Early in the day is most exciting. A real buzz in the air upon waking evokes fresh possibilities, yet even the longest journeys start with the first steps. Do not allow friends or family to distract you during study hours. Tarot message: Do not leave things up to chance. Lucky colour: Cream. Magic number: 50

PISCES: Finance and income are in the spotlight. Matters involving spending, saving and borrowing are all worth examining in debt. Be sure to grasp the opportunity that comes your way today. Tarot message: Don't be certain about obtaining a clearance. Lucky colour: Sea green. Magic number: 41

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is October 14...

Today when you wake up, you may remember deep and wonderful dreams. Remember to write them down so you can study them later on. They may help you resolve an issue that you've been working through. Ideas for bringing some of your hopes and dreams to fruition will most likely come from both friends and family members. You could turn a commitment outside of the home into a family affair. You should have a knack for making new friends. Attending a social event could provide the mental stimulation you need to feel fresh. Don't be afraid to introduce yourself to others. You'll run into trouble if you wear your heart on your sleeve. But this is remedied when you stick with those you trust. Watch out for those eager to go off on a power trip at your expense. Beware of being too demanding with your colleagues.

Positive colours: Green, turquoise, sea green and blue

Select days: Wednesday and Friday

Favourable numbers: 5, 6

Gems recommended: Emerald, Onyx and Ruby

Charity on birthday: Donate oranges to the poor.

You share your birthday with Parmeet Sethi [October 14, 1961, Amritsar], who married Archana Puran Singh, a film and TV actress. Besides Bollywood films, he also starred in Punjabi movie like Des Hoyaa Pardes. Parmeet will do better as a director in 2016.





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