The Tribune, Chandigarh, India - The Tribune Lifestyle

Hey Ram!
Ram Kapoor pairs up with Sunny Leone in Kuch Kuch Locha Hai!

Ram Kapoor Bollywood has produced some sizzling and charming on-screen pairs that have won the hearts of audiences such as Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol in Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and more recently, Varun Dhawan and Alia Bhatt in Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania and Hrithik Roshan and Katrina Kaif in Bang! Bang!

Hindi films have seen some curiously odd pairs like Sonakshi Sinha and Shahid Kapoor in R…Rajkumar and Sonakshi Sinha and Ranveer Singh in Lootera that have become the USP of the film, providing audiences and the film with a much-needed freshness and fodder for gossip columns as well.

There is a new pair in B-town that takes the cake and how! Believe it or not, sex siren Sunny Leone is all set to be paired opposite the household name of television, the good husband, Ram Kapoor in Devang Dholakia's upcoming film.

The film we are talking about has an interesting name too: Kuch Kuch Locha Hai! The romantic comedy is about a rich Gujarati NRI (played by Ram Kapoor) who is in love with a famous and desirable actress (played by Sunny Leone) and how he gets an opportunity to meet her in real life. He does everything possible to make her fall in love with him. Of course, the circumstances and consequences are hilarious.

Ram Kapoor is a television veteran and he has a steady graph in films too, having done supporting roles in Student of The Year and Shaadi Ke Side Effects, among other films. Speaking about his first-ever leading role, he couldn't contain his excitement! "I couldn't believe that Devang wanted to cast someone like me in the lead role with someone like Sunny Leone! Who would say no to be paired
opposite such a hot and beautiful woman " he quips.

Lauren works up a tan

Recently Lauren Gottlieb took a weekend getaway to the popular vacation city, Goa. While it's the season to be in Goa to party, Lauren went for a very different reason. She wanted to get away from Mumbai for a few days to prepare for her upcoming role in ABCD 2.

When asked about this unusual Goa getaway Lauren says, "My character in ABCD 2 is American-Indian. The makers requested that I get a tan for the film. So, I went to Goa and spent hours on the beach. It was so nice to get out of the city to spend some alone time working on my look, script and my Hindi."

Music lessons for Ranveer

A still from Kill Dil

Ranveer Singh has learned Sa Re Ga Ma on the sets of Kill Dil from Ali Zafar and Parineeti Chopra. Parineeti and Ali are both singers; while Parineeti is a trained singer and Ali has begun his career as a singer, it was only Ranveer who didn't know how to sing.

Ranveer being a non-singer was highly intrigued while Parineeti and Ali kept singing, and in between shots they both taught him sargam on the sets. This is the first time that Ranveer has learnt the nuances and sargam of singing, although he has always loved music and wanted to learn it too.

Editorial hours

Rajkumar Hirani is spending long hours in his editing room as he edits PK himself. He was an editor before he became a director. He has editing studios at his office in Santa Cruz, suburban Mumbai, and also at his residence in Goregaon in suburban Mumbai.

Second hand clothes for Aamir

Aamir Khan has worn second hand clothes in PK that have lots of authentic Rajasthani prints. The clothes were bought from the people of Rajasthan on the streets and they were given new shirts or money in exchange for that. How original is that!

High praise for Shahid

Shahid Kapoor gave a great performance in his recently released film Haider and has received rave reviews. The actor garnered appreciation from all quarters. The young actor is actively being talked about in film circles and his performance is being discussed scene by scene. In fact his current director, Vikas Bahl, has been high on praise for Shahid's performance in the film.

Vikas has been talking about his performance to close associates. He feels that Shahid has done complete justice to the character.

Sajid the showman

The year 2014 has proved to be one of the best years for Sajid Nadiadwala with the back-to-back successes. A special newly instituted award (Star BoxOffice) has created a specially titled award called Showman of the Year. The award has been named after Raj Kapoor, an iconic legend known for his contribution towards the industry. The juries for this award were Shashi Kapoor, Randhir Kapoor, Rishi Kapoor and Ranbir Kapoor.

Hard to find!
Beneath the tough exterior of rapper-composer Hard Kaur, beats a heart that is as vulnerable as that of any other girl
Mona

She is not the one to mince her words. A tough childhood, breaking into a male dominated field, Hard Kaur has lived life on her terms. It's a journey fraught with challenges but also appreciation and recognition.

In Chandigarh, on Thursday, we saw another face of the rapper that's as emotional and fragile as any other girl but with a burning desire to accomplish.

Bigger platform

Rapping and composing are close to this artiste's heart. She can't choose one out of the two but agrees, "That composing gives me a bigger ground to play. I carry a certain rapper image, while directing I can pick up any genre, play in any which way I wish." The upcoming film Shaukeens' song Aashiq Mizaaj is a song she enjoyed doing. Filmed on Anupam Kher, Annu Kapoor and Piyush Mishra, this was originally meant for Akshay Kumar but on his insistence filmed on the three veteran actors.

Lucky mascot

Hard Kaur considers Akshay Kumar to be her lucky mascot. Be it Singh is Kinng or Patiala House, together they have worked magic. Among composers, Pritam is someone who inspires her a lot. "He is brilliant. Each of his song is just superb. I want to be like him," says the singer.

Real Hard Kaur

It's not an easy world for a girl to survive. "As long as you remain within the line you are fine, but society still can't deal with a girl who speaks her mind," she says. She has been working non-stop ever since she was barely 13. "I spent eight years in Mumbai and trust me, it was no bed of roses. Beginner's luck favoured me and I was accepted. Last two years have been especially tough."

On the verge of a breakdown, she went back home to the UK to her mother. "She is the real Hard Kaur. I am nothing in front of her. She pepped me up and encouraged me not to give up and here I am."

Culturally rooted

She never claimed that she is religious but maintains that she respects her culture. "I have always found strength in my mother and God. Sadly everything is on a downward spiral. We ape the western ways, dress, drive in the luxury they have but what matters is the inner change. Why wouldn't we pick up their courtesy, cleanliness? The change has to begin from inside," she asserts.

Busy days

"For the last few months I have been practically living in the studio. It's only at four in the morning or six that I head back home. That's what I love about Mumbai — a girl can be what wants to be and walk around safely without inviting undue glare.”

mona@tribunemail.com

The fight goes on...
Jasmine Singh

The warrior has taken up the cause and he begins his battle from October 31, hopefully in front of jam-packed theatres. Actor and producer Kuljinder Sidhu, along with the pretty Unnati, the actress, get talking about the film Yoddha—The warrior, which is already creating waves, given that Kuljinder Sidhu has already put up a tough act in his last film Sadda Haq.

Directed by Mandeep Benipal, the story of the movie has been written by Amardeep Singh Gill and Kuljinder Sidhu. The film also introduces a Swiss actor Hektor Sandhu.

Kuljinder quickly takes us through the story of the film, which is based on the life of a simple person. "It is the circumstances that make this simple person a warrior. It is the situations that push him to a point when certain strong decisions are to be made," adds Kuljinder, who is of the view that we all face a time in our life when we have to take decisions. "Sometimes, you need to turn into a real warrior," adds the actor hoping that the film will garner as much appreciation as his earlier film did. "It is an honest effort from the team and I hope it is seen likewise."

As for the actress Unnati, this is the first Punjabi film and she is really excited about. The beauty from Chattisgarh has enjoyed every bit of this project. "I auditioned for the film in Mumbai, it was totally unplanned however. I told the director of the film that even though I didn't know Punjabi, I could work on it," shares Unnati, who has picked up a good Punjabi accent. Up next, "Well, I want to be a part of Punjabi film industry; let's see what time does. I want to wait for the verdict and then take up my next step."

Nothing negative
TV actress Reshmi Ghosh, in Chandigarh to promote her upcoming show Maharakshak Aryan, says negative roles offer more versatility in terms of acting
Jasmine Singh

You must have heard a hundred and one things about television actors and their monotonous schedules; their dreams to make it to Bollywood. And then you meet a woman who gives a refreshing twist to many things!

TV actress Reshmi Ghosh, in Chandigarh on Thursday, dressed in black, reveals the bright side of her character, which is pretty positive given that this sultry beauty has done nearly 21 negative characters on television. Promoting her show on Zee TV, Maharakshak Aryan, Reshmi feels that negative roles offer more versatility in terms of acting. "It is stressful to play a negative role because I am virtually living it everyday, but we haven't allowed the negativity to come close," she says as we remind her of the mention of 'us'. The 'us' is Reshmi and her husband Sidhartha Vasudev, who is also a TV actor. "Before you ask me more, let me tell you that I have put on 5 kg after marrying a Punjabi," she laughs, not forgetting to mention, "My husband is my best critic. We both like doing negative roles."

An ex-Miss India, Reshmi started doing theatre from the year 2000 onwards. "I was introduced to theatre by Rituparno Gosh," says Reshmi. Despite the record number of negative roles, this actress wants to do comedy as well. "As an actor, I am greedy about doing different kinds of roles and genres, comedy is one. Though, I have done comedy in theatre, I want to explore it more."

Rehsmi plays Vishnkanya in Maharakshak Aryan, a role that required her to work a lot. "From make-up, hair to costumes, my character has been carved with detail and I try my best to justify it. Well, I have had to handle snakes in this too," she offers.

Unlike every second TV actor who wants to turn his or her ride to the roads of Bollywood, Reshmi comes out extremely candid on this one. "After I became Miss India, I probably thought things would be easy. I tried for Bollywood; meanwhile did a couple of Bengali films but nothing worked as far as Bollywood was concerned," she goes on without taking a moment to ponder. "I realised after some time that Bollywood wasn't probably happening to me, and I should concentrate on what I have — television."

Not that Reshmi has given up starry dreams completely, but she has decided not to chase them blindly. "If there is a role that I would really like to do; a role I would have my heart after, why not!" she says.

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Write on the button
The Chandigarh Literature Festival is back. And this time the authors as also prominent personalities are more than eager to share their world view…
Somya Abrol

Meeting up an author is more often than not a dream come true. And when there are many in your sight, the dream gets all the more flight. At the inaugural day of the third edition of the Chandigarh Literature Festival (CLF), we get to meet up with two authors, Salil Tripathi and Rajorshi Chakraborti, who share excerpts from their literary journey so far.

Rajorshi Chakraborti

Salil Tripathi

Modern take

A contributing editor with The Caravan and Mint, Tripathi has written over 1,000 articles for various publications in India and abroad on topics ranging from economics to politics to business to art and culture, for the past twenty-five years. At the CLF, Tripathi is scheduled for a session with author Arshi Sattar on Lost Love: Exploring Rama's Anguish (2011). The former starts the interaction with a mention of the latter's novel: "She's a unique author. She has dared to challenge the bare structure of the Ramayana. In her novel, Arshia, with her modern perspective towards Ramayana, has raised very eligible questions such as — why did Rama leave Sita? Why did he treat Sroopnakha so badly? Arshia has treated Rama as a character, as the hero of his story; not as a god figure we look up to. She has shown that real India is about diversity by providing an alternate perspective on Ramayana."

With talks about varying mythological perspectives being sustained in India, the discussion about Indian authors fighting for their 'right to write' ensues, to which, Tripathi — with his novel (Offence: The Hindu case) dealing with the same issue — says, "It's true that authors have to fight for their right to expression of freedom, which I believe is an uphill battle for artists of all forms."

With the government in power, is the situation bound to worsen? "It will be more challenging, yes. Besides, it's never the government that creates hurdles or raise objections; it's always the self-proclaimed 'vigilantes' of culture, like Deenanath Batra, who force their views on the society. The government doesn't ban books; these vigilantes' dadagiri does," he adds, in reference to the recent ban on Wendy Doniger's The Hindus: An Alternative History.

Deep thought

Expressing his desire to read Lost Love, author Rajorshi Chakraborti or 'Raj', as he endearingly introduces himself, says, "I love the fact that the Chandigarh Literature Festival does not lay emphasis on only current books. Let's be honest, in the overall culture, books have become, or always have been, a minority pursuit, compared to other forms of entertainment. To me, the culture itself is a massive Facebook newsfeed, which is constantly being updated, each 'entertainment' getting its two minutes of attention."

The author of novels such as Or the Day Seizes You, Derangements (Shadow Play), Balloonists, and his short-fiction collection, Lost Men, Raj has twice been nominated for the Crossword Book Award. Delving deeper into the 'right to write' discussion, he says, "I used to consciously lend political dimensions to my characters. But recently, I felt I didn't need to do that because when you talk about a group of characters or their life precisely, the politics of that place and moment will be a part of the story; you don't have to consciously seek it, it's leaving its mark on my characters."

Taking the discussion further towards lack of liberty in political writing in India, Tripathi says, "It's easier, in a way, to write a straight-forward non-fiction about politics in India; because you are circumcised by facts; you have to be accurate. But, when you write fiction and lay yourself open to imagination, that's when people come and attack you. For instance, if you draw a caricature inspired by the Gandhi family, people will burn books. Or if you write a book about the Babri Masjid and draw a character based on Advani, I'm sure the other side will attack. So, that problem is always there. But, some writers are brave enough. Take Shobhaa De for instance — I read her novel Sethji, which had a Bal Thackeray-like character, which I thought was very brave of her."

Putting a cap on the discussion, Raj says, "In India it's also easier to write such novels because they know such 'eccentric viewpoints' don't have such a large audience. We find solace in the fact that literature is a minority pursuit in India. As Rushdie (Salman) said it, the more expensive an art form is, the less expressive it is."

somya@tribunemail.com

Green Thumb
Not a bed of roses
Satish Narula

It is festival time now, but the celebrations for the gardeners extend till spring when the garden is at its best. However, the best of results are not achieved easily. One has to work for it and the planning has to be perfect. Small things make a big difference. Now when you are making beds to transplant new seedlings, be sure you have added proper nutrition. Add two small baskets of well-rotten farmyard manure in a bed of two feet by ten feet dimensions. Also add to the soil one kilo of di-ammonium phosphate in the same bed. Mix all the ingredients well, pour water and leave the bed for about a week.

At the time of transplanting winter seedlings, it is very important to make the level like a table-top. Even a slightest gradient will wash away nutrients and the bed will never be uniform. While procuring the seedlings, get some extra plants and place these in the same bed on one side. These plants will also grow with other seedlings and be of the same age as well as size when some of these will be shifted to fill gaps. When the seedlings are planted, the bed should be watered with a gentle stream through a hosepipe. When a fast stream pipe is kept in the bed, the soil gets washed and there appears a pit. Usually, some of the seedlings also get uprooted or loosened in soil. The growth of such seedlings is impaired and they are weak. In case the flow of water in the hosepipe is fast, either keep it away from the bed allowing water to flow into the bed or put a brick in front of it to break the pressure. You can also tie a cloth at the opening to make the stream gentle. While planning or purchasing the seedlings, you must know what you are buying. You can make combinations for similarity or contrast and ask for a particular size of a particular species when fully grown. Do the planting according to the size, making two or three tiers in the same bed.

(Narula is a Chandigarh-based horticulturist and landscapist)

Creative date

The Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi has invited entries for the Annual Art Exhibition 2014, only for artists residing in Chandigarh, Panchkula and Mohali.

Submission of entries for students is from November 26 to December 4, from 10.15 am to 3 pm. Submission of entries for professionals is from November 26 to December 5 from 10.15 am to 3 pm. at the Akademi office (Saturday and Sunday closed). — TNS

chatter box
Meghna returns to theatre

Actress Meghna Malik, who is currently doing Gustak Dil on TV, is happy to be back in theatre. When asked if she was hesitant to return to theatre after nine years, she says, "I was little hesitant in doing theatre initially because it was after a gap of many years. What appealed to me was the genre of the play."

The name of the play is Ali Baba Aur Chalis Ke Chor. The play revolves around mid-life crisis. It showcases desperation, boredom and doubts of a couple in a comic format. She also adds, "Whoever has seen the play, has loved it. I had not tried comedy since a long time, so it was fantastic comic relief for me." Meghna says, "The show Gustak Dil took only fifteen days of my time, so the remaining days were free and I could do theatre."

Action time on KBC

Ajay Devgn, Sonakshi Sinha and director Prabhu Deva were the guests at the grand finale of Kaun Banega Crorepati 8 to promote their upcoming film Action Jackson. "The days coming to an end for KBC. The Grand Finale prepares and we contribute to our best.. It is chaotic, but it is well intended.. It is mismanaged at times but sincere .. it is unpredictable, but then so is life," Bachchan posted on his blog. The finale episode will air on November 9.

Singing for fun

SAB TV's musical game show Family Antakshari—Baithe Baithe Kya Kare is being loved by the audience. The show is all set to air celebrity special sequences every Saturday, where noted actors and singers will participate. They will share the stage with special host Annu Kapoor, RJ Mantra and Sugandha Mishra.

Made for each other

Hiten Tejwani and his wife Gauri Pradhan, who were seen as a couple in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi and Kumkum — Pyara Sa Bandhan, will be coming together after five years for a new show titled Meri Aashiqui Tum Se Hi. The two actors will play husband and wife once again.

Vikas on Khatron Ke Khiladi?

Rumour has it that actor Vikas Manaktala, who was last seen in Sony TV's Main Naa Bhoolungi, has been approached for the upcoming season of Khatron Ke Khiladi.

Let's see if Vikas accepts the show.

Eat more, save more!

TLC is back with Jamie Oliver, world-renowned chef, in a new series Save With Jamie. The six-part series inspires viewers to eat better and spend less on their weekly food bills. Find out from Jamie how a few clever tricks in the kitchen capture the entire gamut of lifestyle experiences from food, travel to makeover, etc. Jamie Oliver will tell the viewers how to shop smart, cook clever, and waste less. The programme airs every Saturday at 9 pm.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is October 31...

It will be a progressive year at the work front with chances for travel. You will be able to garner financial gains; however, expenses will come along. It will be a moderate time for relationships. Pay attention to your health. Eyes and teeth need special attention. Your birthday on the 31st of the month suggests that you are a good organiser and manager, an energetic and dependable worker; attributes often showing success in the business world. Serious and sincere, you have the patience and determination necessary to accomplish a great deal. Your approach can be original, but often rigid and stubborn.

Positive colours: Dark blue, Dark grey.

Select days: Saturday.

Favourable numbers: 2, 4, 8.

Gems recommended: Gomed, Cat's Eye.

Charity on birthday: Donate white uniform to poor students today.

Piper Perabo You share your birthday with

Piper Perabo (October 31, 1976, Dallas, Texas, US), who was cast in the year 2000 as a lead character in The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle. She also appeared in the television show House as a nutritionist.

Astro Turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Be true to your ideals and don't sell yourself short for money or glamour. Money issues can dictate what you need to concentrate on. A secret arrangement comes to light.

Tarot message: Allow a situation to settle before starting afresh.

Lucky colour: Olive.

Magic number: 58.

TAURUS: The simple things in life will bring you joy today. Do not take on too much, but enjoy working through your chores one by one. A health issue can be worrying you now.

Tarot message: Trust your heart and intuition.

Lucky colour: Green.

Magic number: 46.

GEMINI: A tough day; be alert, aware and dynamic. Postpone work that requires concentration and physical effort. Hidden motives can lurk behind your emotions today.

Tarot message: Act for yourself and no one else.

Lucky colour: Ivory.

Magic number: 36.

CANCER: It is a satisfactory day for working mothers. You will have difficulty getting along with associates. Money matters can take a turn for the better, so keep your fingers crossed.

Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health.

Lucky colour: Lavender.

Magic number: 55.

LEO: The outcome of a lawsuit will be postponed due to matters out of your hands, leaving you in limbo a bit longer. You should not hesitate to shop around for a better deal.

Tarot message: Bury an old quarrel.

Lucky colour: Sea-green.

Magic number: 32.

VIRGO: If you don't expect the day to run smoothly, get yourself prepared. If you are travelling, give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination. It is not a day for property deals.

Tarot message: Do not be in the rush to spend extravagantly.

Lucky colour: Red.

Magic number: 45.

LIBRA: A friend will need your support and you will have to go the extra mile to help him or her through a period of heartache or anguish. Romance will be rather disturbing today.

Tarot message: Do not leave things to chance.

Lucky colour: Crimson.

Magic number: 25.

SCORPIO: Do not be concerned about your business deals. They probably won't be finalised right away. Should a friend ask you for a loan, be cautious.

Tarot message: Don't get involved in any long-term ventures.

Lucky colour: Orange.

Magic number: 30

SAGITTARIUS: Politicians or bureaucrats are in the limelight. Today there are good opportunities for increasing your earnings. Keep your celebrations moderate.

Tarot message: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far.

Lucky colour: White.

Magic number: 63.

CAPRICORN: Strange undercurrents at home can give rise to all sorts of drama. "The Night Princess" predicts a fairly active morning for the children. Students: obey traffic rules.

Tarot message: Handle your projects secretly and carefully.

Lucky colour: Pink.

Magic number: 27.

AQUARIUS: You definitely do not appreciate a friend's interference today. A neighbour has some gossip to divulge to you. Make sure you really want to hear secrets or rumours about someone.

Tarot message: Polish your public relation skills.

Lucky colour: Brown.

Magic number: 57.

PISCES: Do not fear bad luck today. Steer well clear of business. Working women: take proper care of your child's health. A re-union or welcome home party will be fun and relaxing.

Tarot message: Don't let opposition daunt you.

Lucky colour: Lime-green.

Magic number: 31.