All eyes on Kisna
He is naughty and he is witty. This peacock feather-tattooed Indian superhero is quite lovable too. Ketan Mehta, the maker of Kisna, defines the series as a dose of serious entertainment
Mona


India is full of superheroes. We have a team of writers working on the script, while we are careful that no negative values are communicated. Earlier, our industry was working for foreign studios. Now, there is a spurt in Indian content. We are just ready to explode
Ketan Mehta

As the elders get ready to say Happy New Year this Diwali, juniors have their own reason to celebrate. Kisna makes its debut on Discovery Kids pre-Diwali.

Set in 200-year-old states-Anandnagri and Andhernagri, this animation reflects modern India. The nine-year-old boy with superpowers, Kisna picks up the name from the mythological character and represents the charm, wit, humour, sense of adventure of Lord Krishna but he is a boy that children of today can totally relate to. Yes, this boy with a peacock feather tattoo on his left arm also loves to have milk products—ghee, butter, buttermilk and curd. This Kisna is naughty and lovable.

A still from Kisna
A still from Kisna

The man behind the show, Ketan Mehta, the acclaimed filmmaker, talks about it, "What's beautiful about this show is that it's not mindless but mindful entertainment."

Having produced shows like The Adventures of MotuPatlu, Ramayana: The Epic and Captain Vyom, Ketan while giving a green signal to a children's project, keeps in mind the basic storyline which according to him should be engaging.

"India is full of superheroes. We have a team of writers working on the script, while we are careful that no negative values are communicated," says Ketan. The audiences see Kisna battle against Andhernagri's wicked Raja Durjan and his evil plans of creating terror in Kisna's hometown. Ketan, who has produced the show, is happy the way the Indian animation industry is coming up. "Largely our industry was working for foreign studios. Now, there is a spurt in Indian content. We are just ready to explode."

A celebrated director who has given documentaries, feature films and TV programmes with an equal finesse, Ketan loves to dabble in all. "That's what I relish most about being a filmmaker; each new project can take you to an altogether new direction.

A Charlie Chaplin fan during his childhood days, it was Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, that's shaped up Ketan's sensibilities. "Being in the institute, I learnt the ropes of film-making, its craft for it is a technology-driven medium. And knowing about filmmakers from all across the world was truly life changing."

Apart from Kisna, two of his films are soon to be released. Rang Rasiya will open in big screens in November and following it is Manjhi—The Mountain Man. While Rang Rasiya has Randeep Hooda playing the 19th-century Indian painter, Raja Ravi Varma; Nawazuddin Siddiqui leads in Manjhi.

Any current favourite actor, we ask Ketan. "Well, there is this whole generation of bright actors. It's difficult to name a few, but, yes I quite like Randeep Hooda and Nawazuddin and have enjoyed working with them both," he says. The series Kisna premiers on October 19, every day at 2 pm.

In sync with time
Viraja Mandhre and Shyamjithkiran do not mind giving Bharatnatyam a contemporary twist while retaining the depth and perspective of the dance form
Amarjot Kaur

Together, Viraja Mandhre and Shyamjithkiran weave a mosaic of artistic moves through dance that spells heritage and culture with profound grace.

While beholding a sight of the dancer duo attempting to recreate the magic of Bharatnatyam at the Tagore Theatre, we engage in an interesting banter with the young dancers, who prepare to perform Bharatanatyam recital in Chandigarh on an invitation by the Chandigarh Sangeet Natak Akademi.

Both, Viraja and Shyamjithkiran, who are the alumni of Kalakshetra, Chennai, have been performing Bharatnatyam across the country for over four years now. As they wax eloquent about their experience and journey so far, the dancers demand an equal level of acceptance of classical dance forms as the popular Bollywood dances receive.

"I had been trained in Bharatnatyam from a very young age and it was not a very conscious decision. However, my mother really wanted me to study this dance form and so, I was enrolled in Kalakshetra when I was 15," begins Viraja, who hails from Pune.

Meanwhile, Shyamjithkiran, who has already been trained in Bhatarnatyam by Guru VP Dhananjayan's institute, Bhaskara, while he was in Kerala, shares that he enrolled in Kalakshetra because his mother wanted him to learn Bharatnatyam. "In Kerala, every boy learns one or the other dance form and for me, it was Bharatnatyam," he shares.

While the duo elaborate on Bharatnatyam being one of the most experimental dance forms, which can, to a very great extent, facilitate collaborations, they rue the treatment given to the classical dances in India. "Struggle is a part of an artist's journey, but I often wonder what happens to the funds and grants that the government gives for the preservation of cultural dance forms," questions Shyamjithkiran. He also points out that as compared to the western dancers, who perform for the sake of art, Indian dancers are apprehensive of being accepted by their own audience. "When I look at a performance by Pina Bausch, Martha Graham or even Ji?í Kylián, I feel that they dance and choreograph for the sake of art. Whereas Indian artistes are very afraid of their audience," he says.

Viraja and Shyamjithkiran, who perform Bharatnatyam with a contemporary twist, share that most of the times, audiences are fed a half-baked performances of Bharatnatyam that lacks, both depth and perspective. "A Bharatnatyam performer must understand the language and content of their dance first, only then will they be able to convey it to the audience," says Viraja. "I think if corporate culture can value etiquettes, they can also accommodate cultural etiquettes and take upon themselves the responsibility to promote classical dances," they sign off.

amarjot@tribunemail.com

It’s time to light a lamp
Lamps, rangolis, diyas, flowers, torans...it's Diwali time. So, gradually build up the festive spirit before it reaches a crescendo
Mona


Use your imagination to come up with an interesting Diwali decor
Use your imagination to come up with a n interesting Diwali decor

So here comes the festival of lights and the day when we want our homes to shine as much as the attire that we adorn ourselves in. An ornate rangoli, artistic diya decorations, colourful upholstery can sure lift up the mood instantly and if you have time on hand, get creative to make this Diwali special.

Architect-designer Renu Khanna lists five basics of Diwali décor: lamps, rangolis, diyas, flowers and torans. "Going traditional is the call of the day. You can mix and match the different elements of decorations to come up with something fresh and beautiful. Huge earthen pots filled with water, rose petals and floating candles is the easiest and quickest way to lift up any décor."

Floral motifs can brighten up the walls
Floral motifs can brighten up the walls

If you are still working on the interiors, Renu suggests you look for contrast. "Bright shades have made it to the interiors in a big way. Don't shy away from opting for peach upholstery with contrast elements in neon pink or green or use orange and turquoise."

Lamps are out there in all the shapes and sizes to fit any décor. You can also pick interesting decorations, meshed nets to cover the candles or beaten metal pots to keep the diyas. Check out Gujari-20; Westside, Industrial Area or Home Centre, North Country Mall in Chandigarh for cute and pretty decorations.

Mix and match

If you still haven't cleared heaps of junk you have gathered and forgotten all through the year, with little time on hand you can make your own decorations! Just type DIY idea for Diwali on Google and discover the artist in you. No need to go for lacklustre readymade rangolis, decorate it with kundan, earthern pots or raid your kitchen to make an interesting lentil rangoli or even wall art. Or make your own toran rather than picking a cheap Chinese one! Not convinced? Check out nayanadonga.blogspot.in.

Old CDs and you wonder how to dispose them best in the interest of the planet, turn them into lovely glass lamps. Fetch a bag of globules to give company to your discarded CDs, enlist help of kids and you can have interesting glass lamps with you. Take a cue from bestoutofwaste.org. Useless bangles glued together on base can make for lovely tea-light holders too. Ditch the regular vases for flower arrangements. How about colourful watering cans, unused tea kettles or rarely used brass dishes?

Wall art

"Keep everything bright and bold," says Priyanka Gupta, an interior designer from the city. If time is a constraint go for quick, quirky wallpaper borders to give any room a new appeal. "Wallpapers, cushions and perfumed candles are my pick. Big flowers and leaf motifs are in and relevant post Diwali too," says Priyanka. Do a single wall in textured wallpaper to save time or turn your never used blingy saris or suits to bright cushions.

mona@tribunemail.com

The concerns of art
Poonam Bindra

Some of the artworks on display at the exhibition
Some of the artworks on display at the exhibition

'Art is not just for art's sake' - is the driving force behind this initiative, 'Art for concern', taken ten years ago, which combines art with charity. These exhibitions showcase masterpieces and a part of the proceeds are contributed towards grassroots level programmes in the areas of education, health and community development.

Each year, eleven 'Art for Concern' shows are held across in as many as seven cities across India. And for the first time, this authentic contemporary art display, which showcased the work of 31 artists, was brought to Ludhiana on October 17 and will continue till October 18 at the Park Plaza. This event is known to attract high profile collectors and art connoisseurs. The spokesperson Aahana Dhar informs, "We are showcasing an eclectic and authentic collection of art by acclaimed Indian masters and budding artists like T. Vaikuntam, Suhas Roy, Ramananda Bandyopadhya, Jayasri, Burman, Sanjay Bhattacharya, Gogi Saroj Pal, Shyamal Mukherjee, Jai Zharotia, Shobha Broota, Seema Kohli and Sudeep Roy, among others.

In its effort to work for the betterment of the society as a whole, this initiative of 'Art for concern' also uses this opportunity to bring forward the handicrafts of struggling artistes who are looking for a suitable platform to showcase their talent. "Every year we are both surprised and touched by the number of our patrons who contribute their bit towards the under-privileged communities" shares Anjana Khanna, a part of 'art for concern' endeavour. "The participating artists have over the years become an integral part of the movement and it is their contribution that keeps us going," she adds. A majority of art works are priced from Rs 15,000 to Rs 45,000 with the most expensive pegged at Rs 70,000.

(On till October 18 at Park Plaza)

A coastal platter
A food festival at Radison Blue brings the best flavours from Down South…
Poonam Bindra

A delightful culinary experience awaits the foodies of Ludhiana at the ongoing food festival at Radisson Blu Hotel MBD. Food from the coastal states of India is right here on the platter for you.

The menu, which details the dishes for the convenience of the guests, boasts of Peri Peri sauce, both in prawns and paneer in Portuguese style; Allepa Fish fry, which is a tawa fried King fish Kerala backwater style and a Goan potato chops with stuffed cheese. Although 'Kozi Kurumulagu fry' was difficult pronounce, but the chicken cooked with garlic, ginger and ground pepper corns was sumptuous. So was its vegetarian counterpart with mushrooms — 'Koon Kurumulago Fry'.

"It is a nice change from our usual Punjabi food for we only alternated between fried fish and Amritsari Fish'. The Travancore fish curry, which is spruced up with coconut and curry leaves, is awesome. The unique flavour of Paneer Chettinad and Patchakari Kurma is delightful," says a visitor.

Chef Jyot Singh Rana and Rakesh Rawat, GM Radisson, echo, "We have realised that quite a sizeable number of our clients are vegetarian, so the menu has been made keeping them in mind." "We enjoyed Mutton Vindaloo and Chicken Curry Mangalorean style on our trip Down South; having it here is sure a treat," says Nitin Malhotra, a food-lover.

With attendants and waiters all dressed in conformity with the festival 'Coastal flavors of India', it sure is a mini- coastal journey right in Ludhiana.

The dessert again becomes different as they serve 'Dali Kappa' - a halwa made from red gram and jaggery and 'Nolen Gur Rosssogolla'. The festival sure adds to the festive spirit!

(On till October 25 at Radisson Blu)

CELEB POINT
A special b-day
Divya Dutta

When the first message on your birthday is from someone who you've looked up to all your life — none other than the great Amitabh Bachchan — you literally remain with a grin throughout the day. Of course, he's a superstar and an institution in himself! But there's something beyond his megastar status that makes him so special...that place in your heart he's won forever!

My first tryst with him was when we shot for Baghbaan. I like an excited child wouldn't take my eyes off him, waiting for that one moment when I'd catch his attention. As we got introduced, he said a graceful namaste when I so badly wanted to shake hands with him!

I was left bit disappointed, as like a true fan I wanted to tell him how I'd torn ma's dupatta and danced on khaike paan banaraswala. And how in school I always said I wanted to be Amitabh Bach Han! But he was busy rehearsing his lines. Every rehearsal he gave something new, something different. What an experience just observing him! And then we started our scenes, beginning with the one where I am so nasty and mean to him. The scene went very well, but somewhere I got very disturbed of being so mean to someone I adore and respect so much. I sulked in a corner. That ideally shouldn't have been my first scene with Amitabh Bachchan!

All these thoughts kept coming till I heard his baritone voice on the set — Wo chutki (petite girl) kahan hai? I realised he was looking for me and hiding my sadness, I jumped up to meet him. He came up to me and asked his staff — Arey get my hockey, this is the first time someone has been mean to the original angry young man and I am going to tell my fans this. I just looked at him, was about to break into tears when I saw him smiling. He had noticed that I was upset and was trying to cheer me up. He also got sweets for me. The most precious moment of my life as my childhood idol was cheering me up! That day, Amitabh Bachchan became something else for me. He makes people feel special and that's the most special thing about him!

Thanks Amitji. For making my birthday special.

(Dutta is a Bollywood actor)

Beer hug
Get set to guzzle some beer at the Oktober Fest organised by Underdoggs Sports Bar and Grill

Beer and sports sound like a boys' night-out. As a part of the celebratory mayhem, thrown in is a pool tournament while Indian Soccer League closely follows. Parallel to the lines of the annual festival held in Munich, Germany and Bavaria, Underdoggs Sports Bar and Grill gets set to beckon all the beer enthusiasts with Oktober Fest. "The idea is to create awareness about the festival among people here, to celebrate the shared love for beer and also to celebrate with the world," shares Rish Saini, the Co-CEO. Since the festivals mainly associated with beer guzzling are held in September - October in Europe. He adds, "We are giving a sporty twist to the celebrations and brining in initiatives like a pool tournament."

The winner at the tournament, to be played from 26th Oct, gets to walk away with Rs 50,000 and a trophy, while the first and second runners walk away with Rs 10,000 and a medal. Top 3 placers will be given a direct entry into the next pool tournament in November.

"There are also not very many pool bars in the city or infrastructure for the sport, so pool is also going to be our focus." As for the beer, "The menu boasts of 15 plus types of beers with enticing offers on most of the brands." Yet another novelty they would like to bring attention is the beer on tap, which comes in multiple sizes, from a pint to a sporty beer tube. He adds, "We also have Indian Super League going on, which are just as much a part of the celebrations. Anytime there's a goal scored, there's an on the house deal, for everyone." — TNS

(The festival will continue till October 30)

Hello Gippy!

October 15 welcomed a special and a very eventful and wow Wednesday at Mohali-based My Dream Academy. The students of the six-month advanced course in acting woke up to a day of wish-fulfillment! After all, their favourite star and the much-awaited guest Gippy Grewal finally stole time out of his busy schedule to make his first-ever visit for a special interaction with the students.

He also took a tour of the academy premises and enquired about the varied spaces of training besides taking a keen interest in how the budding actors were coming up. Prior to his two-hour interaction with the students.

The students, who he met over an informal interaction, were brimming with questions and curiosity. The atmosphere on the academy premises was charged up since the morning as they went about their day's sessions in bated anticipation. The interaction saw the star talk about how training was important and how he learnt on the job and wished he himself had such a platform wherein he could have training thoroughly as an actor. He also shared notes on how he approached various roles and scenes. In a light banter, he also shared anecdotes. It's not everyday that budding actors get it straight from the horse's mouth!

The students asked him questions on his favourite roles, the most difficult ones too & the most challenging moments in his career. There was much to be learnt from the discussion that followed. After a promise of slotting his next interaction soon, Gippy left with a smile while the students stood satiated and enthused with a fresh burst of energy and the renewed vow to work harder to achieve their dreams. That’s what a star can do to a bunch of dreamers! — TNS

star track
Katrina wants to bully Aditya

Aditya Roy Kapur
at Receiving end: Aditya Roy Kapur

Katrina Kaif will share the screen space with Aditya Roy Kapur in their upcoming film Fitoor.

The actress feels that Aditya is a very dynamic actor and an ace performer.

Katrina said, "I saw Aashiqui 2 and I think Aditya did a fabulous job in it. He is a good actor and I am looking forward to work with him."

Post her success in Bang Bang, the actress will immediately start shooting for Fitoor. Aditya was seen experimenting as the role of a chef in his last Daawat-E-Ishq which he did very convincingly and walked away with a lot of positive response for the role.

He is a silent performer, who lets his work do the talking. Katrina will be working with Aditya, a relatively younger actor, to which she jokes, "It's good, right? I will get to bully him. I will push him around and be mean to him."

Dia Mirza Dia decks up

Dia Mirza dresses up in a Ritu Kumar outfit for her mehendi function. Ritu Kumar has designed Dia Mirzas mehndi outfit in marigold yellow chanderi. The multi- panelled kurta has a vintage cut used in the courts of Agra in and around the 15th century. The neck is deep and worked in embroidered gota patti on net, like the technique used at the time. The gold metallic taar used is of silver worked in gold thread and dori, to give it a stylised plant inlay look. Each panel is high lighted with a flowering buta. The odhni is fuschia worked with small butis of the same beaten gold gota patti, a fuschia brocade deep sinjaf finishes the edges of the outfit. — TNS




ethnic thread: Dia Mirza

All praise for Deepika

Deepika Padukone has been seen working with senior actors of late and has been earning praises galore. She is sharing screen space with Boman Irani in Happy New Year and he has been appreciating Deepika for her performance and her dedication.

Deepika Padukone
Everyone’s favourite: Deepika Padukone

She has recently also worked with ace actors like Pankaj Kapoor, Naseerrudin Shah and Dimple Kapadia in Finding Fanny. They all have been high on praise about her acting and how she is an easy person to work with. They have also been raving about her being cooperative and professional.

They are senior actors who are known for their acting power. Praises from them is noteworthy. On public forums and even in interviews they have been speaking highly about Deepika.

Naseeruddin Shah has said, "Deepika is quite grounded and pretty unaffected by her success in Bollywood."

Dimple Kapadia said, "I have worked with Deepika, and I think she is very talented, focused, disciplined and beautiful." Deepika and Dimple have worked together earlier in Cocktail.

Rekha Casually Rekha

Veteran actress Rekha ditched her signature gold Kanjeevaram sari and precious gold jewels as she chose the most casual avatar ever! Known for her overly dressed-up appearances at social dos, Rekha wore jumpsuit as she arrived for the screening of Sonali Cable. We're surprised!


Image makeover: Rekha

Parineeti tees off

The young actress, who will next be seen in Yash Raj Films' Kill Dil, underwent special training for golf. Her character in the film demanded her to learn the sport as she will be seen playing it.

For that, she had to learn at least the basics of the sport. An expert was hired to come and train the actress for the same. While it was only for a couple of shots, she didn't want it to look fake. People who play golf have a very different posture, style and the way they play the shot, so she wanted to perfect it.

Parineeti is looking extremely different in the film. Gone is the girl-next-door styling and her look oozes oomph. The actress took keen interest in the sport and loved the whole experience of learning even the basics of the royal sport.

Spokesperson of Kill Dil confirms the news and says, "Yes, Parineeti wanted to perfect the way she would give the shot, so she got into the basics of the sport." There is a certain amount of mystery around her character. It's glamorous for sure and paired with Ranveer Singh again after Ladies vs Ricky Bahl.

16 years of Kuch Kuch…

The1998 romantic comedy film Kuch Kuch Hota Hai completed 16 years on October 16 and filmmaker Karan Johar got nostalgic. He tweeted: '16 years ago...#kuchkuchhotahai.:..the film that gave me everything I have today...indelible memories.' The film stars Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji and Kajol in lead roles.

Return to silver screen

National Award-winning lyricist Swanand Kirkire, who was last seen in Kabeer Kaushik's Maximum, returns to the silver-screen with his latest film Sonali Cable. The film is an entertaining drama about a local cable internet service provider.

back again: Swanand Kirkire

Forgive & forget

Actor Irrfan Khan and director Tigmanshu Dhulia have finally buried the hatchet between them. They will be teaming up for an upcoming project, which will be produced by Goldie Behl and Shrishti Arya.

A salute to Ravinder

Ravinder Gautam
Good going: Ravinder Gautam

Actor Ravinder Gautam, who made his debut as a director with Ekkees Toppon Ki Salaami, is getting praised for his work. In a quick chat, we caught up with him to talk about his first film and more.

What inspired you to take up this film?

It is a noble film and as soon as I read the story, I knew I had to do it. The film tells the story of two sons set out to get their father an Ekkees Toppon Ki Salaami (21 gun salute).

Their father fails to earn his bit of appreciation despite being completely honest during his life-long service as a government employee. He might be poor but he still deserves respect for his honesty.

How is people's response to the film?

I am really thankful to God for the kind of response the film is getting. I've been getting calls from many people congratulating me. It's humbling to see people giving standing ovation. People are enjoying the film.

Anupam Kher recently praised you and the film. How was it working with him?

It was an honour working with him in Ekkees Toppon Ki Salaami. After he saw the film, he called me up and said that even though it was my first film, the film was mature and well-made. It's a big compliment from a master actor. So thank you, Anupam sir.

Any plans of getting back to television?

I never left television. I have been a part of the television industry for more than 14 years now. I have done so many shows. But I like to challenge myself, so my priority will be films now.

Are you working on something new?

Yes, I'm. I am currently working on two scripts. One is a thriller and the other is a comic-thriller.

Will you cast television actors in your future films?

Definitely, I have cast TV actors in this film too. I will definitely cast them in future as well. In fact, I'd love to work with Sushant Singh Rajput. I directed him in Pavitra Rishta, so I hope to work with him again.

Rani’s new role

Rumour has it that actress Rani Mukerji has been approached to play Dawood Ibrahim's sister Haseena Parkar in Apoorva Lakhia's biopic on the don.

Halle’s strict stand

Actress Halle Berry has reportedly filed documents asking judge to cut her monthly child support obligation out of suspicion her ex-beau Gabriel Aubry is using the money.

Berry and Aubry, who dated for five years before splitting in 2010, have joint custody of their daughter Nahla. Each has the kid around 50 per cent of the time.

Berry, 48, has asked the judge to reduce her monthly child support obligation from $ 16,000 a month to just over $ 3,000 a month, reported a publication. The actress has apparently claimed in her legal documents that Aubry, 39, has stopped working and is content to live off of the child support, and that's an abuse of the system. She has reportedly added that Aubry is perfectly capable of getting a job and by reducing the support it will allow 6-year-old Nahla to live a comfortable life, supplemented by his income. — PTI

Ranbir to play Sanjay

If the latest rumours are anything to go by, actor Ranbir Kapoor has given his nod to play Sanjay Dutt in Rajkumar Hirani's biopic on the actor. The film is expected to go on floors by next year.

Emraan moves up

Mahesh Bhatt has confirmed that Emraan Hashmi will not be a part of Murder 4. Bhatt says that he has matured as an actor and doesn't need a franchise. Murder 4 is going to be a remake of the Telugu film, Maaya, revolving around a TV journalist with extra sensory powers.

chatter box
Lessons in fitness

Shaleen Malhotra
Workout worm: Shaleen Malhotra

Actor Shaleen Malhotra, who was last seen playing the title role in criminal investigation series, Arjun, shares his fitness mantra and health regime.

How do you stay fit?

I eat healthy, I sleep right and I drink right.

What's an ideal workout for you?

Something that focuses on one body part and focuses on the core muscles of the body.

What's your diet like?

My breakfast is usually boiled eggs and muesli with skimmed milk, and coconut water. Two hours later, I have four boiled eggs. Lunch includes half grilled chicken or anything roasted with salad. I have protein shake after that. Then again two hours later, I have boiled eggs. I keep dinner light and mostly have salad and soup and then protein shake for dinner. I also have coconut water after it.

Is there anything you avoid eating?

I avoid sweets, as I have a sweet tooth.

How do you de-stress yourself?

A session of kick-boxing, a long drive or hanging out with friends.

When are you at your happiest?

When I'm in my bed or when I am with my parents.

What are your tips for a happy life?

Try to be content, which is not possible for a human being. Make sure you are happy with whatever you have and thank God for whatever it is. Appreciate contentment and satisfaction.

Ice-cream or chocolate?

Ice-cream

Who are the fittest actor and actress according to you?

Salman Khan and Hrithik Roshan have been the fittest actor since ages, and now Farhan Akthar after Bhaag Mikha Bhaag. Among the actresses, I think it's Priyanka Chopra, Sushmita Sen and Lara Dutta.

What is the best advice you've ever gotten?

Never over do yourself; know your body before you start putting pressure on yourself.

What's in your workout-bag right now?

Gloves, track, t-shirt, protein shakes and an excuse of not going to the gym.

Your current workout playlist?

I prefer no sounds when I am working out; I switch off the fans too. I like to put a lot of pressure on myself.

Indiawaale on Cartoon Network

Abhishek Bachchan in a special episode of Oggy and the Cockroaches Director Farah Khan and actors Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, Abhishek Bachchan, Boman Irani, Sonu Sood and Vivaan Shah will feature with Oggy and the Cockroaches in a special episode titled Oggy aur Indiawaale, slated to premiere on October 18 at 12 pm on Cartoon Network. The special episode will be based on the theme of the movie - life gives every loser a chance to be a winner. Motivated by the Happy New Year team, Oggy will stand up to cockroaches and Jack in a battle to win Olivia's heart and become a winner!
Comic timing: Abhishek Bachchan in a special episode of Oggy and the Cockroaches

A friend in need … 

The cute tale between a kid and a baby elephant on Zee TV, Bandhan: Saari Umar Humein Sang Rehna Hai, will see an interesting highpoint in the coming episodes, wherein Ganesh's (elephant) heroic effort to save a few lives will grant him admission in the school. As per the ongoing track, little Darpan (Ananya Agarwal) has been desperately trying to persuade the principal of her school to accept Ganesh as a student. However, the principal has been reluctant. Now, the principal himself will have a change of heart.

Shantaram would have called for extra tuitions for the three kids, Raghav (Devesh Ahuja), Sanju (Jagdish Parmar) and Pinky (Gracie), at his place. However, their study time will be disrupted with Ganesh coming and standing outside the house. The tense kids would immediately hide from Ganesh, thinking he has come to trouble them again. However, Ganesh would have actually come to give them a 'sorry' card. Not knowing this, the kids will play a prank with Ganesh to scare him off, by lighting fire on a paper stock and throwing it at Ganesh. However, the prank will get them in trouble, with the fire spreading all over the house. The heroic act of Ganesh will save Pinky. Seeing this, Shantaram would grant permission for Ganesh to join school.

Time change

Kitni Girhain Baaki Hai, will be now shown at an all-new time slot, every Sunday at 9 pm from October 19. Kitni Girhain Baaki Hai throws light on various issues relevant to women in society, it brings out unseen facets of the lives and emotions of women across ages.

Rap it up!

Actor Nandish Sandhu, who has always been fond of rap music, recently had the chance to try it out first hand. We hear that the actor was shooting for the music video of his cricket team when Nandish, along with the other members of the team, came up with a rap addition to the song. When we asked Nandish, he said, "Yes, the rap portion was an impromptu addition to the song and I am so glad that some of those portions are picturised on me."

Depicting Ashoka’s story

Buzz is that popular entertainment channels, Star Plus and Colors, recently got embroiled in a war of sorts to present the story of Ashoka on television. Star Plus has been mulling over the idea before Colors. However, they couldn't materialise anything and now Colors is already making a show on Samrat Ashoka. Now, rumour has it that Star Plus might bring another show on Ashoka.

In love, yet again

Pallavi Kulkarni, who was last seen in the TV show, Vaidehi, will be returning to the small screen after seven years. She will play the lead in Ekta Kapoor's upcoming show, opposite Ronit Roy. It is going to be a mature love story.

Visitors’ choice

Singer and actor Himesh Reshammiya recently visited the sets of Honey Singh's show, India's Raw Star. Himesh will be mentoring the artistes and giving them viewers' choice songs. Apart from that, Himesh will also give a chance to the bottom two artistes to swap places with the top three artistes on the show. Catch the episode this Sunday, October 19, at 7 pm.

Dropping by: Himesh Reshammiya

first-day-first show
Fight for justice

A still from Sonali Cable
Net worth: A still from Sonali Cable

Directed by Charudutt Acharya and produced by Ramesh Sippy and Rohan Sippy, the film Sonali Cable has been scripted and penned by Acharya. Newcomer Rhea Chakraborty plays a pivotal role while Ali Fazal is paired opposite her. Raghav Juyal makes his debut with this film.

Sonali Cable is the story of a girl from a ghetto and her 'internet boys', who take on a greedy conglomerate that's out to decimate their spirit of enterprise. Sonali Cable is a 'David versus Goliath' story, in the thick of the cable-internet turf war in Mumbai. An ordinary girl puts her love, life and survival at stake, when she and her ragtag team come in the way of the expansion plans of India's largest corporation.

Good story

I really like the story of this film and think many youngsters will be able to relate with the concept. Ali Fazal has acted extremely well in the film.

Vineet Kumar, private company employee

Okay affair

I think Sonali Cable is a very interesting film that explores a very modern day concept and as a youngster, I can totally relate with it. I like the cinematography and direction, but I was not too pleased with the actors.

Rishabh Sharma, student

Refreshing concept

I really like the idea of the film and the way it has been treated. It's a very new and refreshing concept and I am glad that the Indian cinema is accepting such ideas. The film is definitely a one-time watch.

Karthik Bakshi, student

(As told to Amarjot Kaur)

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Keep in mind that situations change and lucky breaks can be just around the corner. Try to increase your knowledge in new areas. Health may need more care. Tarot message: Lack of confidence can leave you in losses. Lucky colour: Coffee. Magic number: 28

TAURUS: Take criticism constructively and accept praise graciously. Make the most of this low-key day, because there is plenty of work store tomorrow. Money problem is likely to arise. Tarot message: Don't make hasty decisions. Lucky colour: Burgundy. Magic number: 61

GEMINI: Go out of your way to hunt down quality produce, full of life and colour. Pack up your cares and woes and have a good time. Influential people can be contacted. Tarot message: Don't waste an opportunity by being rash. Lucky colour: Golden brown. Magic number: 33

CANCER: Browse the newspaper and online websites for that dream job, because you just may find exactly what you have been hoping for. Arguments at home are likely to erupt. Tarot message: Learn from past experience. Lucky colour: Baize. Magic number: 28

LEO: If you have been feeling house-bound, arrange an outing with your partner. Refuse any new assignments. Loved ones are unlikely to make special demands. An Arian friend is supportive. Tarot message: Be articulate to prevent people from making their own conclusions. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 65

VIRGO: Show your love to those close, through practical action rather than empty promises. Be careful while signing agreements. Family members may require your assistance. Tarot message: Dare to accomplish tasks that normally take up time. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 27

LIBRA: If something is already on your calendar, postpone it for a later date. Time to impress your boss. You will be feeling competent to deal with work that requires creativity. Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health. Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 39

SCORPIO: You are in a cheerful mood today. Decisions may involve a journey overseas, committing to formal education or joining a religious community. Tarot message: Make compromises outside and come to terms within yourself. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 25

SAGITTARIUS: Women: you will have the money to shop to your heart's desire. Think about the family budget next time you spend on entertainment or luxury items. You can plan a profitable business trip. Tarot message: Lack of confidence can leave you in losses. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 44

CAPRICORN: Household expenses and mortgage seem to be pretty well covered now. But pleasurable indulgence might be eating into domestic expenses. Ignore unpleasant gossip. Tarot message: Prevent trouble by taking timely action. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 55

AQUARIUS: Investments such as property may be possible. A detailed accounting process lets you know what you can afford in the present situation. Shopkeepers may encounter an unruly customer. Tarot message: Think carefully before taking action. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 64

PISCES: Some of you may have lost interest in career ambitions and are feeling faded about future prospects. Students interested in competitive sports may be selected for their school team. Tarot message: Do not sway from your course. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 46

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is October 18...

There is a humanistic or philanthropic approach to business circumstances, in which you find yourself. You may have good executive abilities. You are broad-minded, tolerant and generous, a compassionate person that can inspire others with imaginative ideas. Some of your feelings may be expressed, but even more of them are better repressed. There is a lot of drama in your personality and in the way you express yourself. You can be great at taking care of the kind of business that gets you what you want. The material possessions that you most cherish can be yours through hard work and diligence; go for it!

Positive colours: Golden, red, white, yellow and cream

Select days: Tuesday, Friday and Thursday

Favourable numbers: 3, 6, 9

Gems recommended: Red coral and yellow sapphire

Charity on birthday: Donate 12 kg charcoal to a needy washermen [dhobi].

You share your birthday with Om Puri [October 18, 1950, Ambala], who has appeared in both mainstream Indian cinema as well as art films. His credits also include appearances in British and American films. The strong number 9 will take Om Puri to great heights in his career with some controversies attached, always.





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