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Music to the ear
As they strum a chord called revolution that has for long echoed in the Indian rock music scene, Parikrama, the 23-year-old Indian rock band establishes itself in a space that lets them experiment and explore their creativity to the hilt.
We engage in an interesting banter with Subir Malik, keyboard player and manager of the eight-piece band, to delve deep into the core of the band, while discovering their stance on free music and the evolution of rock music scene in India. As a part of the 15-day tour of Seagram's 100 Pipers' Play for a Cause, Parikrama performs at the F-Bar on Wednesday and the music tour is dedicated to sponsoring meals for the underprivileged. With John Lennon clear glass goggles placed conspicuously on the bridge of his nose, Subir's disposition as a musician and his likes is not so hard to guess. Nevertheless, his statements tender a clear perspective as he talks of the band in retrospect. "Before associating with Parikrama, I was with three bands with KK, who is now a well known Bollywood musician. When I joined Parikrama, as the founder of the band, most of the members of the band were a bunch of school going kids," begins Subir. As the first few rock bands in India, Subir shares that the first challenge was to fight the Indian perception of a band. "My parents' and grandparents' understanding of a band was that of an orchestra band that plays at people's weddings and singer was the man stationed in the corner of a restaurant singing ghazals," he says. However, that was not the only issue that the band members were battling with. Their main concern was to market themselves, for which they used the best marketing strategy, called 'free' music! "Making a band is a separate thing, but marketing it is a different ball game altogether and the early nineties was the era of indie music, while the rock stayed restricted to the campus," he says. Also, with Parikrama making English songs, Subir knew that the band would only be able to cater to a very niche market. "Only 4 per cent of India's total population actually really listened to rock music in the 90s and we knew that with a price tag attached to our music, we will earn peanuts. So, we sold our music for free and didn't even charge any royalties, the music was used in the film Manjunath at that time," he shares. Though the free music didn't generate any money for the band, it put them on the front burner of popularity, thereby bringing many concerts their way, which gave them much money and an opportunity to open for Iron Maiden in 2007. "We even toured with them and played at the Download Festival. Also 50 per cent of our trip was sponsored by Iron Maiden," he shares. Subir says that this is just about the perfect time for anyone in the country to be a musician as the indie music is in full swing. "Now, big guns want to invest in music festivals and that is pretty much evident with festivals like NH7 Weekender becoming so famous. Earlier, that was not the case. No one would be willing to invest in music," he says. Also, Subir expresses his joy over the acceptance of rock music bands in Bollywood music. "I am very happy about the fact that people have started accepting the band culture and rock music in Bollywood is the ultimate proof of that. Also, with the former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh opening India to the world economy, we now don't have to go to Palika Bazaar to ask for a plectrum!" he
laughs. amarjot@tribunemail.com
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Of sensibility & sensitivity
"I was amazed that Do Dooni Chaar got picked for a discussion!" is how director-screenwriter Habib Faisal opens his interaction with Chandigarh media, expressing candidly that he'd rather talk about the literature fest first before 'getting personal'.
Faisal's directorial debut, Do Dooni Chaar (2010), received critical acclaim and sent him spiraling towards what they now call 'sensible commercial cinema'—his second and third directorial ventures being Ishaqzaade and Daawat-E-Ishq, respectively. Talking about revisiting his work at the fest, Faisal says, "It's always interesting to look back; not that I had forgotten any part of it. When you're doing a film, the film becomes you, you become the film. Not unless I have a stroke of Alzheimer's, I won't forget." Not ready to reveal the project that's currently underway—except the fact that he's in the 'writing' phase - Faisal says every film he does, makes him start from the scratch. "You can never learn from the previous films you've done. Your next film has new characters, different plot, different theme; you're a different person with each project you take on. You're tricked into thinking you've learnt and evolved, but the truth remains that you remain a novice at the beginning of each new film. The excitement of discovery starts afresh; so does the fear. Like for any other artist-a writer, a painter, a musician-that's the inevitable cycle of fear, anxiety and anticipation." Drawing parallels between cinema and literature, Faisal says they're similar at a plane most people fail to see. "That's why I like fests like these; they recognise the literary quality of film writing. Fundamentally, the director of a film is its author-he builds characters, gets lost in their world, take cues from reality, and ultimately, they both have to entertain," says he. Ask him if he'd like to cross over to the other side, like most authors have delved into scriptwriting, and he says, "I'd be interested in writing a novel because I want to write about things that I can't encapsulate in the two-hour time frame of a feature film; things that need a wider canvas." For now, Faisal is proud being a commercial director. "I love the process of making cinema and am proud of being a commercial entertainer.
" somya@tribunemail.com
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From the core of his being…
While making a quick work-related trip to Bangalore or Mumbai, sitting in the flight by the window seat, a leisurely stroll on the street, if there is one thing Chandigarh-based freelance photographer Nisheeth Bhatt likes by his side is his Canon camera. It gives meaning to his moment, and also that extra 'power' to see what the naked eye can't.
As this soft spoken shutterbug opens his photography exhibition, The Melted Core, at Jehangir Art Gallery from November 4 to 11, inaugurated by actor Gul Panag, he wouldn't mind a quick walk down the passages, the alleys that have frozen in his heart and soul, melting whenever he stands in front of the frames that have captured them beautifully. Nisheeth is an advocate by profession and photographer by passion. "I don't drink, smoke or party, the only passion I have is photography. I am not trained in this, but this is something after my heart. Camera is my constant companion," he stresses on every word that oozes out like melted lava, which is warm! His work at the Jehangir Art Gallery is not a result of a year or so of clicking. "I am presenting work of more than two decades, works I have done from 1995 to 2014. This exhibition has everything I have experienced in life; landscapes spreading colour, the beautiful Kashmir valley in its untouched form, people and faces that are vividly etched in my mind," adds Bhatt who has travelled extensively from the Great Wall of China to Scottish castles to the streets of Lahore and more. And then there are pictures that have left a mark, pictures that he has closely related to, as he shares some of them, describing their meaning. "At the exhibition is a picture of prarthna chakra, taken at Mc Leodganj. The centre chakra is static, while the other two on both sides are moving. I can relate to the picture because no matter whatever turbulent times I have gone through, my faith has been static like the chakra in the centre," Bhatt carves a beautiful image of the picture through his words. Given that he sees the world through the camera, one wonders is he ever found without it as well! What happens when he is in the court? "Ah well, you know, we are not allowed even cell phones in the court room, forget about a camera. But yes, when I am travelling for a case to any other city, then you would see that my camera is a part of my kit. And what about the world turning to selfies! "The only selfie I have taken is by Gul Panag when she was filing her nomination papers in Chandigarh. Now, if you ask me about any picture taken from my mobile phone, then there is one taken in Sangla Valley," says the photographer, who wants to keep moving on this path with his constant
companion. jasmine@tribunemail.com
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Decoding history
Vijai, who has penned Kurukshetra: Timeless Sanctity and two Haiku collections among others, played an important role in restoring the oldest surviving Mughul gardens in Indian subcontinent in the capacity of the managing director of Haryana Tourism Corporation in 2006-07. The restoration done under specialists in Mughal and Sikh architecture was a gigantic affair that made Vijai spend time in the gardens. Once he completed the project, it led to the book. "Sadly, we don't document our heritage like the British administrators did," says Vijai and that made him research the historic gardens. Surprisingly, he found nothing in the libraries in this region. But the historian in him didn't give up. He spent hours decoding the structure, finding parallels with different architectures and found a book titled Gardens of the Great Mughals by CM Villiers Stuart, an English author and artist in London. A year of research and some magnificent shots, and the book was ready. Published by the Department of Cultural Affairs, Government of Haryana, the book brings facts, photos and fascinating quotes and poems by the likes of George Eliot and Rumi and details of Pinjore Heritage Festival that Vijai conceived with his team. "Gardens are not only beautiful but also places that ease our tired souls with their serenity. And never before was it so important to have gardens to escape to from the urban slums," says Vijai. The Pinjore garden for him is a metaphor like the paradise gardens that only fill us with an overwhelming sense of joy and also nudge us to seek and nurture the garden within ourselves. The next by this graduate in history from St. Stephen's College, Delhi is going to be a tome on life, time and works of Moinuddin Chishti of Ajmer Sharif.
mona@tribunemail.com
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Three cheers!
The Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi has announced the names of the artists who have been awarded the fellowships of Rs 1 lakh each for the year 2013-14. Dr Mahesh Prajapati, Nutan Dhiman and Sonali Mukesh will be given the three fellowships. The one-person jury consisting of internationally renowned artist Sudarshan Shetty interviewed the candidates and finalised these names.
The fellowships have been named as Sohan Qadri Fellowship, sponsored by Sohan Qadri Foundation headed by his daughter Purbi Qadri, Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi Fellowship sponsored by Sanjit Malik dedicated to his brother Sandeep Malik and his wife Sunita Malik, and Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi Fellowship funded by Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi. The fellowships are aimed at providing talented artists a platform to continue their research, to develop new ideas in their respective disciplines and to encourage deeper engagement with art and their surroundings.
— TNS
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Nandana Sen unplugged
Nandana Sen was last seen in Forest, directed by Ashwin Kumar. She has since married a publisher and moved to the United States. The daughter of Amartya Sen and Nabanita Dev Sen is an intelligent actress, activist and author. Her long-delayed film Rang Rasiya is finally releasing. She talks about the movie and the important relationships in her life. Family first
My family has always been cautiously supportive and I completely understand their worries. As I was always an excellent student so everybody assumed that I would be an academician. I was a topper all four years at Harvard in Literature and writing and had gotten into the Ph.D programme. Yet, I chucked that for a film career. They were still okay when I decided to go to a film school, as they could see me becoming a writer and director, but when I decided to be an actor, they were surprised and worried as I literally showed up in Mumbai with a backpack not knowing any one here. Of course, now they are extremely supportive and proud of my work and visit festivals around the world with me. But all the big decisions that I have made in my life often did not make sense to anyone else, but to me. But I am glad that they have never proved me wrong. On Rang Rasiya
It was not an easy decision at all. I have always been fascinated by Raja Ravi Varma's work from when I was young. One of the reasons I have loved Ketan's work, be it Mirch Masala or Maya Memsaab is because his films are about women empowerment. And this film in particular, makes such a powerful statement of how vulnerable women are in society and yet how incredibly strong they can be. Also for the fact that the film stands for democratisation of Gods, for equal rights for men and women, how critical it is for us to protect freedom of expression. The film also touches upon the issue of religious intolerance. All this drew me to the film. Why would I pass on the chance to play Sugandha, an archetypal Indian woman who was also a trendsetter of her time? Nudity in the film
Much as I wanted to do the film, it was not an easy decision for me. I had to let it sit with me and imagine what it would be like to see myself on screen and I did ask myself that and asked all the people I cared about - my parents, my boyfriend with whom I was living in at that time (Madhu Mantena, who is still my best friend). It was important for me to know how they would feel. But by the time I decided to do the film, I had managed to conquer my feelings about it and Ketan was extremely sensitive about all my trepidation and made me very comfortable. I feel strongly about women's bodies getting objectified on screen and so, the key question we asked ourselves many times was whether or not nudity was essential to the film. And it was. On hubby John
He too is very nerdy and likes poetry just like me. While on the one hand, he is a serious person, there is also a wonderful child like silliness about him, which leads him to write cute poems about me or making up stories when I can't fall asleep. We have a really playful relationship. I love the fact that we never run out of things to say to each other and we have both embraced not only each other, but also each other's families with a lot of love.
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Alia, on a candid note
Yeah, I always wanted to be an actress... But sometimes I wonder why I wanted to be an actress. I remember sitting in my room watching Karisma Kapoor and Govinda dance in some garden, I was bobbing my head and I said yeah this is fun.
I remember every Sunday I would perform for my nana and nani.
I would do some dance number and they'd clap. I'd perform at birthday parties, at Christmas parties. Even as a kid, I wanted people to look at me. That I guess was a sign that I wanted to become an actor. The flipside of being a star
I always want to act though sometimes, I don't want to look good, I want to have a bad hair day. I'm sure girls will connect with me, when they feel she's not always looking good, she has a day when she looks normal. I believe it's important to connect with people. I really liked shooting for Highway because it was a soul-searching journey. I was relaxed; I didn't have to care too much about hair, make-up and clothes. Some trivia about Alia
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Not for public viewing!
Actress Priyanka Chopra has been making headlines ever since it has been announced that she's a part of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Bajirao
Mastani.
An image of the actress made its rounds on the Internet and several started speculating on how it was her look as Kashibai in the magnum opus.
However, Priyanka is amused by the rumours and took to a popular microblogging site to clarify the same. "This image is from an ashram during navratri" tweeted the actress.
Putting the rumours to rest Sanjay Leela Bhansali's spokesperson says, "This is to clarify that the image of Priyanka Chopra in the saree that has been floating online is not from Bajirao Mastani - her look has been kept under wraps."
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An open letter
Hollywood star Angelina Jolie, who is a special envoy for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, is campaigning for provision of basic rights to displaced citizens in their adopted countries. Jolie, 39, is supporting the organisation's I Belong drive and has signed an open letter addressing the problem.
"Statelessness can mean a life without education, without medical care or legal employment... Statelessness is inhuman,” the letter reads.
— PTI
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Out & about
After staying for six weeks inside Bigg Boss' house, actress Minissha Lamba has been eliminated. She clears the air and speaks about her controversy on the reality show.
Did you expect to get eliminated this week? Every time I was nominated, I expected myself to be out, because you are on a platform where people judge you for your
daily actions. But I didn't do too bad! There were rumours that Arya Babbar and you dated. We never dated. What he has said is not true. I have been his co-star in many films and we have been friends. He was under a lot of pressure when he said that, so I have forgiven him. Besides, I had no choice, as I wanted to maintain a dignified position in the house and not intensify the issue. I will talk to him once he comes out. How did your family react to the incident? My family will obviously support me, especially when they know it isn't true. My boyfriend knows everything about my past and I have nothing to hide from him. My family knows everything too. Do you think Bigg Boss will help you get more work? I went on the show to
test my patience in a given situation and show people who I really am. The whole point of the show was to connect with the audience. What's next for you? I don't know yet. I've just come out of the house and am getting used to routine life. First, I want to chill out with my friends.
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NEW RELEASES
Producer: Ashok Thakeria and Indra kumar Director: Indra Kumar The eternal diva Rekha makes a comeback on silver screen with Super Nani. Her co-stars include Sharman Joshi and Shweta Kumar. Super Nani is the tale of women realising their inherent potential to overcome hardships. The film also stars Anupam Kher and Randhir Kapoor. Super Nani gives a strong message to all the women that the power lies within them; all they need to do is discover and use it. Produced by Ashok Thakeria and Indra Kumar under the banner of Maruti International, Super Nani has been directed by Indra Kumar. Roar: The Tigers Of Sunderbans Producer: Abis Rizvi Director: Kamal Sadanah Roar: The Tigers of Sundarbans is a realistic film directed by Kamal Sadanah. It stars Abhinav Shukla, the renowned TV star and winner of Best Potential in Gladrags Mr India 2004, in the lead role. The cast includes Pulkit Jawahar, Pranay Dixit, Achint Kaur, Nora Fatehi, Aaran Chaudhary, Aadil Chahal and Himarsha Venkatsamy. Abhinav Shukla plays the role of a pundit who ventures into no man's land to take avenge his brother's death. He forms a team for this
purpose. — Dharam Pal
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Political net
TV show Mastana Mahi, starring popular Pakistani actors Fahad Mustafa, Mehreen Raheel and Sajal Ali, is all set to premiere on November 6 on Zindagi. The show is a gripping story of a carefree guy Adil (Fahad Mustafa), who has found his life partner (Mehreen), but is caught in the myriad seas of politics, as he hails from a political family. Catch it at 10:15 pm on Zindagi tonight!
Of complex emotions
Back in action: Pallavi Kulkarni Pallavi says, "I am glad to make a comeback on television as Ragini Patel with Itna Karo Na Mujhe Pyar. Ragini is a strong-headed woman, who has brought up both her children single-handedly." Produced by Balaji Telefilms, the mature love story explores the complexities of human relationships. The story revolves around a married couple, Dr Nachiket Khanna and Ragini Patel, who, despite loving each other, stay apart.
Workout diaries
Everest, the Ashutosh Gowariker show, recently went on air and the newcomer leads are famous already, it seems. Sahil Salathia, one of the three leads of the show, is already being approached for pictures. Last week, when the actor was at his gym, a fan refused to leave his side till Sahil shared the secret behind his body, a glimpse of which is shown in the promo of the show. Sahil was so flattered that he insisted that the boy work out with him every day.
Actress Shivin Narang, who plays Ranveer in Veera, recently got to meet Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan at a party. What's more, he got to dance with him and do his signature hand step too. He says, "SRK is one superstar who always inspires me. Meeting him was like a dream come true. I told him I am into acting because of you and he smiled back. I got a teenager-like feeling."
Fan moment: Shivin with Shah Rukh Khan
Arjun Kapoor and Sonakshi Sinha are rumoured to be dating. They apparently bumped into each other at YRF Studios where Sonakshi was shooting for an episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati and Arjun was dubbing for Tevar which incidentally, is their first film together and the one that brought them close to each other.
Work wise: Arjun Kapoor and Sonakshi Sinha
Baba on a rap drive
The thanda thanda guy, the dil dhadke sensation, Baba Sehgal joins the crazy cast of Y-Films', Bank
Chor. Baba plays himself in the film and is one of the crazy hostages who gets stuck inside the bank during a heist and drives everyone, including the robbers, the bank employees, customers and other hostages, bananas with his
rapping.
Rumour has it that Kareena Kapoor Khan was very rude to an enthusiastic female fan at the airport in Mumbai. The fan approached her for a picture and she just brushed her off. The fan was very embarrassed.
Mood swings: Kareena Kapoor Khan
Cameos galore
Akshay Kumar's upcoming comedy film The Shaukeens has cameos by stars like Dimple
Kapadia, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Suneil Shetty and Abhishek Bachchan. We hope that the cameos are good and more importantly they are fun!
Workout diaries
Everest, the Ashutosh Gowariker show, recently went on air and the newcomer leads are famous already, it seems. Sahil Salathia, one of the three leads of the show, is already being approached for pictures. Last week, when the actor was at his gym, a fan refused to leave his side till Sahil shared the secret behind his body, a glimpse of which is shown in the promo of the show. Sahil was so flattered that he insisted that the boy work out with him every day.
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ASTRO TURF
ARIES: Recognise your behavior and try to keep a check on your temper. Turn a blind eye to the unsavory suggestions of another and they will give up.
Tarot message: Empty promises are certain, therefore try to put your terms and conditions in writing. Lucky colour: Sea green
Magic number: 25
TAURUS: Use this day to rest and recharge your batteries. Taking time out for yourself every now and then would be a good idea. While health would be stable, it is advisable to be cautious when driving. Tarot message: You find within yourself a fountainhead of will power. Lucky colour: Red
Magic number: 47 GEMINI: Be compassionate and considerate towards your partner and let them be absolutely open and frank with you. A family member may need your support. Get local produce for a nutritious meal.
Tarot message: Do what is right and watch your best interests. Lucky colour: Orange.
Magic number: 36 CANCER: Health would be a matter of concern, especially as the planets that are in your solar health house may create some problems. At home, there may be a past conflict that could create stress.
Tarot message: You are advised to focus on professional changes. Lucky
colour: Turquoise Magic number: 53 LEO: The day would focus on your adaptability to changing situations. Due to your new-found confidence and assertiveness, some people may not be too happy and you may face resistance. Tarot message: You must share responsibility with others before continuing.
Lucky colour: Peach Magic number: 64 VIRGO: With celebrations and get-togethers happening all around, your social life would be hectic and exciting. Singles would be looking for someone special. However, things may not go very smoothly.
Tarot message: Think positive and be optimistic. Lucky colour: Sea green.
Magic number: 38
LIBRA: Business people may consider entering partnerships or joint ventures with like-minded individuals. Some of you would also contemplate painting or redecorating the house.
Tarot message: You gain by being practical; don't be emotional. Lucky colour: Mauve
Magic number: 27 SCORPIO: Some relationships would grow closer and more intimate. The focus of the day would be getting in touch with your true self and your own needs as compared to those of others.
Tarot message: Focus new light on your emotional and spiritual place. Lucky
colour: White Magic number: 42 SAGITTARIUS: The presence of the full moon in your own sign increases your sense of perception and intuition. As a result, you would be able to pick the vibes of others and respond accordingly.
Tarot message: At work don't hold back anything from your employer. Lucky
colour: Golden brown Magic number: 61 CAPRICORN: At work, avoid putting too much on your plate and postpone some things for the next day. Some of you may have to take a personal decision towards the middle of the day.
Tarot message: Build great success by applying yourself. Lucky colour: Purple
Magic number: 40 AQUARIUS: Memories, romance, feelings and emotions would be the focus of the day and would have long-term influences on your relationships and friendships. It is important that you learn from the past. Tarot message: Focus on the better to mitigate the bitter.
Lucky colour: Pale yellow Magic number: 55 PISCES: Your competitive nature would help you stay ahead of others. Social activities would be highly encouraging. Transfer and promotion for some employees cannot be ruled out.
Tarot message: You have to push to succeed. Lucky colour: Aqua Magic number: 59
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THE YEAR AHEAD
If your birthday is November 6...
This year your birthday falls on Kartik Poornima, which coincides with Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji's birthday, also making the year more auspicious for you. The number 6 is a loving, stable and harmonious. Ruled by Venus, you will be compassionate, stable, family-loving, trustworthy, domesticated. If expressed negatively, superficial, jealous, possessive, unwilling to change. As lovers, number 6 have a deep dislike of discord and will generally work hard at keeping peace. If your moon sign is Virgo, you are getting rid of Sadhesati of Saturn. If it is Scorpio, then a major change in life is expected within 27 months. If moon sign is Aries or Leo then take utmost care in driving, using electrical gadgets etc in day-to-day routine. Treat your business, property matters and financial issues on priority basis. Be serious about your goals and targets if in marketing. That would result in your growth and prosperity. Positive colours: White, sea green, cream, light blue and rose Select days: Friday, Thursday and Tuesday Favourable numbers: 3, 6, 9 Gems recommended: Diamond and Emerald Charity on birthday: Plant a Peepal [Banyan] sapling in a public park or religious place.
You share your birthday with Ethan Green Hawke (November 6, 1970), who is an American actor, writer and director. In 1995, he starred in the romantic drama Before Sunrise, and later in the 2004 sequel Before Sunset.
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The historian and the writer in administrator Vijai Vardhan come together in his latest publication, Pinjore The Garden of Paradise. The book that traces the origin of the magnificent garden, which was laid in 1669AD, is full of interesting details that one might have missed on a cursory visit. Its beautiful landscapes are captured by Darbar Singh.
Super Nani
Marathi actress Pallavi Kulkarni is returning to the small screen after a sabbatical of seven years with a new show, Karo Na Mujhe Pyar. The Kehta Hai Dil actress will be playing the main lead opposite Ronit Roy on the Sony Pal show, which is about reinstalling faith in the institution of marriage.
Star struck
Some dating rumours
Of star tantrums and fan fare