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Roar uproar
It's rare to see a team so passionate about their project. Six actors of the upcoming film Roar—Tigers of the Sundarbans are all enthused as their mega-project gets set for the big screen this month end. In Chandigarh, on Tuesday, the cast got together to promote the film that marks the Bollywood debut of Abhinav Shukla, Varindar Singh Ghuman, Nora Fatehi, Aaran Chaudhary, Aadil Chahal and Himarsha Venketsamy.
Set in the Sundarbans, the story takes its peg from the conflict between humans and tigers. Part lifted from a bedtime story, part from pieces of real news, it's a commercial action thriller. With Kamal Sadanah behind the story and camera, the film catches the majestic animal in all its glory. Abhinav Shukla graduates from the small screen to big with this film, "Sometimes we underestimate the power of nature. Whether we are able to hunt or get hunted, who all come out of the Sundarbans alive is what you should look out for." Giving him company is Varindar Singh Ghuman, the bodybuilder from the region who is managing both the careers simultaneously. "You get to see me fighting two tigers in the climax," says this avid Arnold Schwarzenegger fan. Varinder had to do all his stunts for it's not easy to find a body double for this beefed up actor who competes for Mr Olympia! Then there is Aadil Chahal, an engineer from Hisar, who lives his father's dream (to be an actor) with Roar. Says another member of the team Aaran Chaudhary, an ex-mariner and Gladrags Manhunt Winner 2010, "I have been on duty in 23 countries and been in war zone. Roar was a super adventure and we are very proud of the way the film has turned out." Giving the boys company are two glamorous girls Nora, a model from Canada, who plays a commando in Roar, and Himarsha, another South-Indian model from South Africa, who plays a track-finder working for the wildlife channels. The film that aims at an international release has used latest technology and spent hugely on VFX effects. "Often people say that why don't we make films like in Hollywood? With Roar, we actually have made one," says Aaran. Shot at a budget of Rs 40-50 crore, a Helicam has been used for the first time in India to take expansive shots of the beauty of Sunderbans. The background score comes from Oscar winner Resul Pookutty. No effort has been spared to make the film as authentic as possible. "Apart from having top action director from Bollywood, we were given real commando training by the experts in the field," pitches in Nora. Although the film releases right after the big-budgeted Happy New Year, the team has high hopes. "We were just aiming at pan-India release but after the initial reception we got at Cannes — the biggest film market — we decided to go for a worldwide release," says Himarsha. "Tiger is a universal hero. Roar is as much India's film as China's or Japan's," echoes the team that is eagerly awaiting October 31 release. mona@tribunemail.com
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Character calling
At times, all it takes to go further in life is to just go with the flow. Mudit Nayar believes in doing just that. Which is why, "It has neither been too easy nor too difficult for him to be able to make it to arclights." A journey that started for the Allahabad boy after graduation in commerce, "After my graduation, I was all set to join my father's business when he only encouraged me to give acting a try." The shift to Mumbai happened, followed by Barry John's acting classes and the rest is proverbial history.
Currently seen in an episode of Yeh Hai Aashiqui on UTV's Bindass, he shares about the character and much more, "It is a regular love story. Where the girl is a rich man's daughter; is energetic and enthusiastic. She takes all the initiatives in taking the romance further whereas I play a shy guy. He is the son of a vendor, who sells flowers outside a temple." A character, he, too some extent, identifies with. "I'm pretty much like this guy — shy and not too extrovert. In fact, the previous character that I played in the serial Anamika I could not relate much to because I play a loud, energetic guy." Moving ahead Auditions followed a couple of cameos and things got better each time. "I auditioned a few times and got better with each audition. So much so that wherever I auditioned, my name would be among the final list." However, he is not yet over the initial glitches and nothing compares to the wisdom that struggle inevitably brings along. "Every newcomer goes through initial struggles. The biggest problem usually is on how to network, whom to approach and how to get started." Everything else can fall in place, provided the basic checklist is taken care of. "You have to have acting skills. There is no substitute for talent. Then onwards it is all about timing and being at the right place at the right time." A message that's been echoed and heard enough number of times! In the pipeline are two projects, one of which will finally materialise and that is all that he would like us to know. Well, as of now. "I can do only one of them because they are both lead roles. In both projects I'm touted to play a protagonist," and that is all that he shares, fearing to even reveal the genre or his character. Meanwhile, there is something else that really needs to be done. "I would love to play a character with shades of grey, but only a well-written negative character." We bet he'll once again go with the flow. The flow that might take him even further!
manpriya@tribunemail.com
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A leaf from history
While most of the Punjabi films seem to be riding on star cast and big budgets, which accounts for their commercial success, there is another aspect of the industry that treads on the lines of Punjabi-Indie cinema. Produced by Virasat Films and Punj-Aab Creation, the film titled Rakhe Harimander De details the story of Sikhs' valour, and the execution of traitor Chaudhary Massa Rangarh, the man responsible for desecrating The Golden Temple in 1740.
At the theatrical launch of the film on Tuesday, director Gurcharan Virk and producers Jagpreet Singh and Balvir Singh explore a deeper concern of making the film. "The movie has elements of valour and religion woven with classic cinematography. It has been shot extensively in parts of Chandigarh and Rajasthan," says Gurcharan. He also informs that the film is based in the year 1740 and delves into the execution of Chaudhury Massa Rangarh of Mandiala, whom the Governor of Lahore put as the in-charge of the Harmander Sahib. Massa Rangarh did not allow Sikhs to visit The Golden Temple or to take a dip in the holy waters of its sarovar. He instead desecrated the sanctity of the holy Golden Temple by watching dancing girls, drank alcohol and smoked hookah inside it. "Right from the year 1740 till date, anyone who has disrespected the sanctity of The Golden Temple has not been able to live for more than 90 days," he says. Film Focus Team has written the story, screenplay, dialogues and lyrics of movie. While talking about the research that went into the film, Gurcharan shares, "This is an important part of Sikh history and has been verbally narrated from generation to generation. Also, writer Harman Das Sahrai has written a book about it while Ganda Singh has written theses on this subject." The film was screened at the Shivalik Public School on Tuesday and the makers only want to keep it for screening rather that taking it to the cinemas. "We want the filmdom to be viewed by the community first and not take it to the cinema halls. The film will be screened across several countries, including UK and South Asia," says Gurcharan. He adds that it is an issue-based film that aims to include the youngsters of the community and acquaint them with the knowledge of the history of their religion. "These days, the youngsters watch television and cinema, so it is the best way to educate and inform them about their culture," he says. amarjot@tribunemail.com
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Model way
Adding to the long list of Punjabi films is a yet another directorial debut of Hemant Galav, titled Mukaddar, which aims to shortlist its characters through a modelling show. In conversation with the makers of the film, producers Satbir Singh and Karamjit Singh, who is Hemant Galav's business partner, we get to know the perspective that dictates their concerns.
"This film is on a serious subject and the protagonist will undergo a troublesome patch, from where he shall emerge victorious. To play the characters of the film, we will be hosting a modelling show across the region, as the film is worth a budget of Rs 1.5 crore," says Karamjit Singh. The model hunt will be taking place across Jammu, Solan, Shimla, Ludhiana and Chandigarh. Also, the organisation, Alankrita Films, has launched a mobile app where the aspirants can apply. They can also apply on their website www.alankritafilms.com. "Through this film, we are aiming to revive the culture of Punjab," says Karamjit. The shooting of the film will begin in late February or early March. The modelling contest will be held in Chandigarh on November 23, and in Shimla and Solan on November 16.
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it’s rocking Whoever said that thin is in, sure didn't hear Meghan Trainor singing All About That Bass, which is her debut single released by Epic Records and was co-written by Meghan Trainor and Kevin Kadish. With Kevin Kadish on drums, bass and guitars and David Baron on piano, saxophone, and Hammond B3 organ; the song is a pop and doo-wop song that contains lyrics of body positive themes. The song has become a commercial success, peaking at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 becoming Meghan's first hit single on the chart. It has also reached number one in Australia, Canada, Ireland, Denmark and New Zealand and peaked in the top ten in other countries. Unconventional take With most of the songs that one listens to, describe women in a very conventional way, with a special reference to their fashionably slim body types. However, All About That Bass celebrates a chunkier version of women, which is quite a delight to listen to. Aneesha Verma, student, MCM College Size up Finally, a song that can be dedicated to women who are not size zero! I really like the song, especially the lyrics. The music of the song is good too. Prakash Tulli, student, BRS Dental College Good combination What I like the most about the song are the music and lyrics. The video is good too. Also, the way in which the song banishes the idea of perfection is amazing. It has a nice old school pop vibe to it. Anahita Khanna, A private company employee (As told to Amarjot Kaur)
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A fine cut
While jewellery buying needs no special reason, festivals prove as the perfect indulgence time for the occasional jewellery buyer. ORRA, makes the festive season brighter with a mélange of enchanting jewellery with irresistible offers to match, valid till October 27, 2014. Take home exquisitely crafted 18kt gold jewellery set with the finest Belgian diamonds, and walk away with assured 24 carat gold or silver coins absolutely free on diamond jewellery purchases above Rs. 5000. If the sheen of the yellow metal takes your breath away, then indulge in captivatingly crafted 22kt BIS Hallmarked jewellery at up to 50 per cent discount on making charges. Diwali being the perfect occasion to invest, get FLAT 50 per cent off on making charges of 24kt .999 purity gold bars and coins.
keeping with the festive season ORRA has launched an exclusive line of bridal jewellery designed in 22kt gold and pure platinum. The Bridal Tiara necklace is inspired by the Tiara (western maangtikka) worn by brides, the platinum necklace is reminiscent of flowers in the bride's hair. The 22kt Tribal Gold necklace is inspired by the bridal necklace worn by South Indian brides; it's a fashionable fusion of the contemporary with the traditional. The Eternal Love Circles necklace in platinum has little circles that connote the circle of love shared between a bride and groom. — TNS
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star track
Farah Khan talks about reuniting with Shah Rukh Khan in her upcoming film, getting over the differences and the making of Happy New Year.
The return Yes, we are friends again and we could not have had a grander comeback on film. Jai and Veeru are back! We both missed each other. The reason our combo works so well is that he spends too much money without me. I keep him within a budget. Title tale My husband Shirish Kunder had written a script on the Kandahar hijacking titled Happy New Year. I took the title from him. Resolving differences As I completed the script, Shah Rukh and I resolved our differences. He called and asked me to make a film with him. I mailed him the script. A few days later, Gauri asked me to fly to London to meet him. We sealed the deal in his new house. Gauri played an instrumental role in our patch-up. Wise selection I wanted a new girl for the movie and auditioned hundreds of girls. Then I felt that a newcomer wouldn't be able to hold her own against five male stars. I wanted an actress who was a star in her own right. So Deepika came on board just three weeks before we rolled. Dare and bare Most of the actors in the movie are flaunting their bodies. SRK's shirtless scene in Om Shanti Om proved lucky for us so he has a couple of body scenes here also. He has worked really hard. Sonu Sood has a great body too so he has also taken off his shirt. Abhishek Bachchan plays a good for nothing drunk so he doesn't have to flaunt his body in the movie.
A signature move
For one of the songs in his awaited upcoming film, PK, Raj Kumar Hirani wanted a very different signature move. The director was keen to have a non-filmy choreographer for this particular song and they went on an extensive search to get someone unusual on board for this.
Artists from France, Bangalore and other places were auditioned but Raju was not satisfied with the groove of the signature move. Even people from the cast and crew were given a chance to try but no solution was found. Kiran Rao who was on set once also tried making a cool move but it did not fit the feel of the song. Apart from that, even Anushka Sharma tried her hands at it. Finally, it was Raj Kumar Hirani, who came up with a cool signature move for the song. Bosco - Ceasar then came on board and choreographed the entire song in the same mood. The song is a light mood song and the makers are very happy with the way it has turned out. PK releases on December 19.
Stan Lee to make an Indian superhero film
Spider-Man creator Stan Lee is looking forward to make his first Bollywood movie based on Indian superhero Chakra: The Invincible.
Lee and Graphic India, a character entertainment company, are looking at making grown-up version of Chakra tackling his arch-enemy, Boss Yama, against the spectacular backdrop of Mumbai. Lee is the co-creator of superheroes like Spider-Man, Iron Man, Hulk and X-Men. He and his producing partners, Gill Champion from POW! Entertainment and Sharad Devarajan, CEO of Graphic India, have been meeting with leading Bollywood directors, producers and writers to adapt the superhero saga that they launched last year for the big screen. "I've always been a fan of Bollywood films and I'm really excited about launching Chakra... as my first Bollywood superhero movie," said Stan Lee.
Punjabi connection
Miss India Simran Kaur Mundi will romance Kapil Sharma in Abbas Mustan's next film. Apparently the makers wanted somebody fluent in Punjabi.
Next step
Pulkit Samrat has been cast in Dil De Pyaar De with Disha Patani. The sex comedy is directed by Sonam Nair and produced by Dharma Productions.
Congratulations & celebrations
Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan will celebrate their second anniversary at the sprawling Pataudi Palace which has been renovated. It will be a small celebration with family and friends.
One world, one life
While the tension between India and Pakistan is rising on the border, Pooja Bhatt feels that no politics should be involved in cinema. She says artistes need to stick together through political uncertainties. "Will I work with Pakistani artistes? YES! We are all in the same boat, in the same stormy sea and we owe each other a terrible loyalty! Nations may go to war, communities may disagree. Artistes need to clasp hands tighter through political uncertainties. One world. One life. ME!" the 42-year-old actress-turned-filmmaker tweeted.
Replying to hate tweets, she added: "To all those whose only retort is abuse-sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me!"
Triple treat
The trailers of PK, Action Jackson and Detective Byomkesh Bakshi will be launched with the release of Happy New Year.
Double role
Kunal Kohli is all set to become an actor with his upcoming film titled Phir Se. It is directed by him and Ajay Bhuyan and marks the debut of television actress Jennifer Winget. It is a romantic comedy.
Under threat?
Shah Rukh Khan will promote Happy New Year in a bomb proof Mercedes car after gangsters opened fire at the residence of his producer friend, Ali Morani. SRK has purchased this car for protection.
What’s cooking?
Hrithik Roshan was in Dubai for the opening of a nightclub called Cle. He was spotted chatting animatedly with hot Bollywood newbie Esha Gupta. She went up to him and they were inseparable.
Will Zayn Malik do a Bollywood movie?
One Direction band member Zayn Malik is reportedly being wooed by Bollywood producers. Producers in Mumbai want to tap into his global popularity and are offering 500,000 pounds for a song to Malik.
"One very big production company is putting together an offer for him to act and sing. He has turned down one song, but if the right one comes along it could be great for him," said a source. — IANS
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chatter box
Gold rush: Rekha
The bad boy
Actor Vatsal Seth, who is currently seen in a negative role of a spoilt brat in Ek Hasina Thi talks about the show. “I play the role of Shaurya Goenka who is unlike a hero. He is a spoilt rich brat and an arrogant playboy. Shaurya is an edgy character and a contrast from the good guy I have played so far,”
says Vatsal. On his negative character on the show, he adds, “ I was skeptical at first because I wasn't sure if I could pull off a negative role. All the characters are pretty unique on the show.”
Show case
Pakistani actor Fawad Khan, who became the heartthrob of the nation with Zindagi's flagship show on Zindagi Gulzar Hai, is back to charm the viewers with his superhit drama series Humsafar.
Humsafar, which became a blockbuster show during its run in Pakistan, not only turned its lead pair Fawad and Mahira into stars overnight but also went on to become the highest-rated Pakistani drama ever. But do you know that Fawad initially had some reservations about the show and could have also let it pass, had it not been for the stellar star cast of the show. "Humsafar, initially, read like a regular saas-bahu saga but when I was told that Mahira Khan and Naveen Waqar were in it with Atiqa Odho and Hina Bayat, I felt it would be pretty interesting. So, I agreed to be a part of this show and I am glad that I took that decision," says Fawad. Humsafar marks the biggest turning point in actor Fawad Khan's career and to this date. The show holds a very special place in his life.
So far so good
It's celebration time for the cast of Sasural Simar Ka as the show recently crossed the millennium mark. Sasural Simar Ka has kept audiences glued with the story of two sisters, Simar and Roli, who have advanced through life with determination, perseverance and panache. Colors has even launched a contest which will give its viewers a chance to win an all-expenses paid trip to Hong
Kong.
It's crime time
Investigation Discovery (ID), the new Hindi entertainment channel unveiled its primetime programming. The network will present a wide range of programmes capturing true stories of investigation, crime and suspense between 8 pm and 11 pm. Some of the series that will premiere on ID include 'Disappeared', Who the (bleep) did I Marry?, I was Murdered, Evil.
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Astro turf
ARIES: If you need promotion, talk to your boss. Now is the time to sit at home. Real estate transaction should not be started. Tarot message: Now is the need to question the value judgment, which has been shaping your money aspects.
Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 60
TAURUS:"The Moon" reveals that you could stretch your relationship a bit too far. Speak your mind to your beloved to clear misunderstanding. Property deals get concluded. Tarot message: Don't be too certain about obtaining a clearance or permission. Lucky colour: Ebony.
Magic number: 42. GEMINI: Talk to superiors and see what they can offer. Romance is in the air. Non-cooperative family members will throw a surprise in your life. Confide in a friend, take out time for long work, or read a good book. Tarot message: You need to take things slowly.
Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 62. CANCER: Today you will be in an enthusiastic frame of mind. Matters connected with the state or government agency will go through smoothly. Unexpected callers can intrude in your space. Tarot message: Change the status quo, both at work and relationships. Lucky colour: Silver grey. Magic number: 29. LEO: Try to get some time for yourself; this could be the hardest thing to do today. Relax and be a little more tolerant. You will be in a mood to find fault with people who are dear to you; curb this habit.
Tarot message: Follow your instinct. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 30. VIRGO: Teamwork is the keynote of the day. Home life will be pleasant. Check your car before you set out for a long journey. Control your drinks. Tarot message: Draw on those inner energies and begin moving from thought to action.
Lucky colour: Rust. Magic number: 64.
LIBRA: Life is not always a bed of roses. Relatives will be sensitive and difficult to get along with. No pain no gain. Look after yourself now, and you will avoid problems. A woman would be supportive.
Tarot message: Confrontations need to be managed with care Lucky colour: Royal blue.
Magic number: 59. SCORPIO: You will be happy in the company of friends. Find moderate pleasures. Some of you could be suffering from financial insecurity. It is a temporary phase. Tarot message: You must realise that it's important to enjoy your dreams but be sure you don't play tricks on yourself. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 41. SAGITTARIUS: Relax; there is no work pressure at all. Friends will be easy going and willing to fall in love with your plans. Property matters are highlighted. A romantic alliance is likely to blossom by the evening. Tarot message: Do not let anyone walk over you.
Lucky colour: Burgundy. Magic number: 46. CAPRICORN: Best day to get things done by people in power. You will get an opportunity to become a member of an important club. Family affairs run along smoothly. Take a look at why you are putting up with the situations you do not like. Tarot message: Be determined. Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 25. AQUARIUS: Love relations are bubbling with excitement. Making a spontaneous trip can fill your need for variety. Students will get down to their tasks and creative hobbies. Businessmen: expect help from clients and loan from bank. Tarot message: Win the war with honesty. Lucky colour: Cream.
Magic number: 27. PISCES: Tendencies for manipulation or revenge should be controlled and contained. Believe in your own worthiness. Political bosses: danger looms large on your head. This is a time to formulate your goals. Tarot message: Trust your heart and intuition. Lucky colour: Yellow.
Magic number: 43
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The year ahead
If your birthday is October 15...
You will receive exciting news about your personal prospects. If you get a new job, your employer will be very cooperative. Support and co-operation from elders and seniors in both your family and professional front would be of a high order. Plans are pushed along with efforts. Pending real estate matter is going to be solved in the coming year. Some good communication from abroad will change your routine. If in a software industry, a project abroad is waiting for you. If you want to make a serious point, this is not the ideal time to do it. But if the magic of music, a walk in nature or a spiritual connection rings a bell, one of them could actually be a key to bringing romance in your life. Positive colours: White, sea green, cream, light blue & rose Select days: Friday, Thursday & Tuesday Favourable numbers: 5,6 Gems recommended: Diamond & emerald Charity on Birthday: Donate green clothes/ school dress /green edible items to the needy or at a religious place today.
Victor Banerjee (October 15, 1946, Calcutta) who is a well-known and talented actor. He has also dabbled in politics, and was once a parliamentary candidate for the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) from West Bengal.
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Dressed in her signature gold Kanjeevaram sari and precious gold jewels, veteran actress Rekha recently made an appearance on Bigg Boss. Several stars took to Twitter to rave about her. Sonakshi Sinha tweeted: "Ohmygod! Rekhaji dancing to dagabaaz and saying my thappad dialogue on Bigg boss!!! I looooooove it!! no one like
her."
The latest episode of Satyamev Jayate highlighted the importance of road safety in India and actor Aamir Khan has pledged to help road accident victims. The 49-year-old actor tweeted: "I pledge that I will never be a bystander in an accident. will always help the injured immediately no matter what #RoadsOKPlease #MumkinHai." According to the show, 380 people are killed every day in road accidents.