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Simple, steady...Sonu
Confidence, followed by luck, is what our very own Punjab da munda Sonu Sood believes helped him carve a niche in the very competitive B-Town. The guy from Moga, Punjab, is happy to be back, this time for a brand endorsement. On Tuesday, Sonu took his time chatting around; clicking selfies with all the eager girls.
Value system
I consider myself fortunate. Although it has been two decades now when I left home to study and pursue a career, I still cherish the values that were part of my bringing up. These have been of immense help in my journey so far.
Show time
I was shooting for Entertainment when I got to know that Farah is looking for an actor for a key role in her upcoming film. I called and asked her to consider me. She asked me how I looked at the moment and I sent some bare body shots from the sets of a movie I was shooting for in Bangkok. She forwarded them to Shah Rukh Khan and I was shortlisted. Next twenty days, till she confirmed me, I kept sending my bare body shots; so much so that Farah asked me to stop lest she heads for divorce!
Screen shot
Our very first viewers were kids and the moment they came out of the show they were dancing, rendering dialogues; and we knew the film will click. The film gave me my chance to act and dance too. Now I have options lined up in all genres.
Home front
I was so busy working that couldn’t spend time with my family at all. Now on a break I am doing this and more. I am considering scripts, but yet to decide on my next project. Home means loads of food, I am going to give in to the temptation for the first five-six days and then follow a routine. Winter special makki ki roti and sarson ka saag are on cards. Abhishek and Farah have instructed me get stuffed paranthas for them.
Veggie delight
I am the only vegetarian in my family of meat-eaters. When I was barely three, I told them that I wouldn’t eat non-veg and I have stuck to it. I am the salad-eating sorts and trust me its not easy finding salad in this part of the nation.
Fitness first
Fitness is a way of life for me. I consider there are only 22 hours in a day; the rest of the two hours are just exercise for me, come what may. I had six-packs even when I was in college and have stuck to my workout ever since. I thank my Punjabi genes for a sturdy body and mind. Gillette has been my partner long before I started my journey in tinsel town. Looks do enhance confidence and here is one tool to add to it.
Success route
Newcomers in the industry must not lose hope. The journey is rough, but patience and perseverance are the keys to success. I have enjoyed the struggle. I think I am playing the cards right
now.
mona@tribunemail.com
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Sporty spirit
Last time when we met Babita Puri, she was busy organising the shoot of her film Prithipal Singh — A Story. With unbelievable calm, given that she is one of the directors and producers of the film, she was going around checking every detail. Today, sitting relaxed with the same calm, she breaks the news of her film winning a prize for the best sports film at the All Sports Los Angeles Film Festival.
Indeed, she is happy, all the effort, all that running around and all those sleepless nights have paid off well. Chandigarh-based Babita Puri has already made a documentary on sports for the Doordarshan, but Prithipal Singh is her prestigious project. She along with her team that includes Sundeep Misra, from whose unpublished book on Prithipal Singh Singh the screenplay has been written, along with others, are a proud lot today. The unsung hero, Prithipal Singh, was shot dead by his own student at the Punjab Agricultural University. Now, this Hindi film on him will be dubbed in many languages. Babita now wants to take up newer project, closely related to sports. Big day
Almost 60 films come for the all-sports festival in LA, out of which only the good ones are screened. For three days November 8, 9 and 10, the festival had two films from India and one was ours, which also won an award. Right balance
Since I was directing and producing the film, it was essential that I maintained a balance between the two, which I did successfully. The film stars Vikas Kumar, a TV actor, as the lead. Rough road
The biggest challenge was the research work. I wanted to keep the story as real as possible. The research work stretched to almost one year; meeting people who knew him or had any information on him. We show three Olympics in the film and creating it wasn’t an easy task. The actor was a non-hockey player and every morning before the shoot, he would practise with a real coach. Up next
Well, I am thinking of making another film, which will be based on sports since we don’t have many films on sports till now.
Babita, who has had her stint as a journalist, completed a filmmaking course from New York before jumping into this sphere. “The film is divided into two halves; in the first half audiences will see Prithipal Singh and hockey, and in the second it is mostly about his university stint and interaction with students.” jasmine@tribunemail.com
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A proud alumna
Divya Dutta
Entering the school’s gate was sheer nostalgia. I was welcomed by the faces I grew up looking at — my favourite teacher, principal; I was very nervous. The feeling can’t be explained in words — to go to your alma mater where you spent the best years of your life as the guest of honour! The teachers I was so in awe of was sitting and chatting with them. In that very office I used to sneak into nervously after seeking permission, I was having tea with the sister. And finally the event; I sat alongside the education minister Diljit Cheema ji as a chief guest! The stage was set and we were watching those bundles of talent perform. All I could think of was my days of practice in school. That excitement of performing, of wearing lovely dresses, of butterflies in my stomach to give it my best shot and if my mom sitting in the audience was watching me... I just said it all in my speech. It was a different feeling to be an alumna and a guest of honour! I had butterflies in my stomach...it’s just the memories that kept coming out from my mouth, straight from the heart. And then the principal said, ‘I want a lot of my student s to be like you’! I was choked with emotions... overwhelmed, exhilarated, emotional and happy. As the event wrapped up, something that I wasn’t prepared for happened. I was surrounded by people; parents, students, teachers, little kids, crying for pictures. That love was so pure! I was all theirs. It took me an hour to get out of the main gate with a new set of memories accompanying me. On my way back to Mumbai, these lines rang in my ears...Akela hi chala tha janibe manzil magar, log milte gaye, karwan banta gaya. I came alone to Ludhiana and was carrying back this caravan of so much love...of meeting those I’ve not seen for years. School and college principals, teachers, friends, maasi, and my chota veer Guneet. This shall remain my most memorable trip ever. (Dutta is a Bollywood actor)
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Stretch it out
Stretching exercises are essential for all age groups Naveen Kala Stretching should be a part of daily life, whether you exercise or not. One of the good things about stretching is that it can be done anywhere, any time. Stretching is very useful for every age group, especially for women. Regular stretching exercise increases your range of motion in the joints and tightens your muscle. For example, stretching can help your hips and hamstrings become more flexible. This can help prevent many injures with growing age. If you have a sitting job, stretching can help you maintain a healthy regimen. And the best part is there are no side-effects. Stretching relaxes the muscles and this helps in easing out tension as well. Right approach
Before stretching, always jog for at least ten minutes to warm-up the muscles. Always stretch out gently and hold the position for 15-30 seconds. It is important to breathe normally as you stretch and avoid holding your breath. Stretching, before and after an exercise routine, is very important to avoid any chances of injury. It also increases the blood flow to muscles, which helps in speedy recovery in case of an injury. Stretching is important part of any weight training regimen. Make sure you avoid any jerky movements during stretching. Types of stretching
Static stretching: This is for muscle relaxation, where you stretch for 15 to 30 seconds. Usually performed before a workout, you can also do it in the morning when the muscles are tight. Dynamic stretching: Also know as active stretching, this is generally done by sportsmen. This includes skipping, standing sprints, lunges, among other forms. (Kala is a Chandigarh-based fitness expert)
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The right stage
Known Punjabi playwright Harpal Tiwana’s famous play Long Da Lishkara makes a comeback on stage two decades after a successful film on the same script. If the film broke many records, the play was equally successful. The play has Neena Tiwana play the iconic character of the Sardarni. Her son Manpal Tiwana takes up the role of the son, which was played by Raj Babbar in the film. “Long Da Lishkara highlights the clash of modernity and tradition, which is still very relevant,” feels Manpal, who enjoys acting besides his mother on stage. “The play has Nirmal Rishi essaying the role of Gulabo Masi, which made her gain popularity the world over,” says Manpal. The play also uses film songs, Saare pind wich puare paye and Challa, which add colour. Catch up with the one-and-a-half hour play at the Tagore Theatre on Wednesday from 7:15 onwards. — TNS
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Piece of cake!
Known for high quality of its products, Nik Baker’s marked an entry into Jalandhar recently. With world-class standards, which have revolutionised the bakery experience of the region, Nik Baker’s launched its first store at Model Town.
Chef Nikhil Mittal, Director and Head Chef, Nik Baker’s, said, “Considering quality as the most important factor, we endeavour to provide best bakery products, and effective and prompt service so as to achieve total customer satisfaction at all times. We have a lot of loyal customers from this region, especially from Jalandhar, which encouraged us to open us a store in Jalandhar. We at Nik Baker’s focus strongly on taste, decoration and quality to provide the best of European bakery experience to our customers.” — TNS
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A fabulous Friday run
The producer, director, Sajid Nadiadwala has had a fabulous run with his movies at the box office this year. Right from Highway to 2 States to Heropanti to the record breaking Kick. So, the owner of a very popular and old theater in Jaipur, Raj Mandir has invited Sajid Nadiadwala to their city. He wants to personally meet the producer and felicitate him for the year that has been. Sajid Nadiadwala was very surprised and at the same time overwhelmed on receiving this call. Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment has been contributing to Indian Cinema in a big way since decades now. The production house will now be entering the 60th year of its operations.
For the independent spirit
Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao hosted a screening of the documentary After My Garden Grows, made by Oscar winner Megan Mylan, at Light Box for their friends. After My Garden Grows is the story of Monika, a rural Indian teenager who grows food on a tiny rooftop garden to feed her family and in the process sows seeds of her own independence. Farhan Akhtar, Zoya Akhtar, Kangana Ranaut, Reema Kagti, Imran Khan, Avantika Mallik, Nuzhat Khan, Atul Kulkarni, Victor, Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Dibakar Banerjee and a few others came to watch the documentary. Monika, the teenager on whom the documentary was made, was also present with her sister. Those present were really touched by the short film.
The action begins
Fox Star Studios and Phantom Films have decided to release Ranbir Kapoor’s Bombay Velvet on May 15, 2015. Directed by Anurag Kashyap, the romantic thriller also stars Anushka Sharma (who is paired with RK) and Karan Johar in key roles. Anurag says, “We are all gearing up for the release of Bombay Velvet on May 15 next year. The film needed time to complete given the work that was pending and now we have locked a release date.”
Small gesture, loads of love
Deepika Padukone is currently shooting in Kolkata for her upcoming film Piku, alongside Amitabh Bachchan and Irfan Khan. The actress has been in the city for a while now and has been exploring the cuisine and delicacies that Kolkata is famous for. One of the crew members recommended Deepika to have sandesh from a sweet shop. The actress loved the sandesh, which was made of jaggery and milk. She loved the sweet and shared it with her team members. She was also keen on sending a box home to Bangalore. Sandesh needs to be consumed within 24 hours, so she sent someone from her team to deliver the Sandesh all the way home.
Stealing a few hours
Aditya Roy Kapoor took a day off to spend time with his family before starting shoot for his next film, which has a longer schedule. The actor completed all his work commitments before he began shooting for his next project, Fitoor. However, he had requested his team to keep a day off so he could spend some time with his family. He has left for first schedule of the shoot in Kashmir.
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Of faux pas & the fashion quotient
A little too much This works alright because Aditi looks pretty. However, we’re not big fans of the outfit — all the different colours and textures make it a little too chaotic for our taste. Lighter accessories may have helped the outfit stand out more.
Wrong side of casual We know Adhuna was going for a casual look and the knotted shirt and jeans combination works well. We’re not fans of the belt though and the shoes, while a style statement on their own, seem to be rubbing us the wrong way, as does her frazzled teacher-like hairstyle.
The saving grace The dull shoe peeking out of this dress ruins the entire look — and an up do would have suited the neckline a lot better. We’re not really fans of the earrings either, they’re too long. Her saving grace is that she hasn’t overdone her makeup.
Over the top The front of Zareen’s dress is pretty and fits her like a glove, but we hate the back — it looks like batwings on a skirt! Her necklace is a little too over-the-top, but we love the statement cuff on her wrist. Lesser accessories and lighter makeup would have made this look a winner in our books.
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PS: I Miss you
Bollywood star Aamir Khan, who wrapped up his talk show, Satyamev Jayate earlier this month, is missing the show and connecting with his fans. “Sigh... guys... missing SMJ, and connecting after that with all of you on Mumkin Hai. Love, a,” the 49-year-old actor tweeted. Aamir will soon be seen in his up coming film P.K., which releases on December 19.
It smells fresh
American reality TV star and actress Kim Kardashian is all set to visit India later this week, to promote her new fragrance. She will also visit the sets of reality show Bigg Boss 8. Confirming the news, Kim tweeted: ‘Just touched down in Australia!!! My perfume world tour begins for my new fragrance Fleur Fatale! Next stop India then Dubai! All in 1 week!
Over & out
Punjabi actor Aarya Babbar is the latest contestant to get eliminated from the reality show Bigg Boss 8. He had several heated exchange with co-contestant Puneet Issar during his stint on the reality show, and they also got into a physical fight. Aarya also accused Puneet of playing dirty politics inside the house. We say, two wrongs don’t make a right!
Agreed?
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Actor Ronit Roy will soon be back in Balaji Telefilms’ upcoming venture on Sony Entertainment Television, Itna Karo Na Mujhe Pyar. He talks about the show, his role and more. What is the story of the show? The show portrays that husband and wife can separate, but parents cannot. It is a story of a husband and wife, who are separated but meet each other together regularly for their children. How was it like working with Pallavi Kulkarni? We have just started shooting together and it has been a pleasurable experience. We will enjoy more as the show progresses. I am working with Ekta Kapoor, again, after four years. What kind of roles do you prefer to play? I have always played roles that excite me. I won’t be able to choose between any genres. Recently, you have acted in films like Boss and 2 States. Do you enjoy films more than television? The mediums are different and so is their framework and canvas. Each has its own positive and negative points. Will you give up television for films in the future? I don’t do many Bollywood movies anyway. So, I have no reason to choose one medium over the other. Your character, KD on Adaalat is very popular. Do you plan to continue with the show? Yes. As long as the channel finds the show fit, I will continue with it.
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Mahira Khan visits Mumbai!
She is beautiful, talented and stunning; she won millions of hearts with her performance as Khirad in Zindagi’s super-hit show Humsafar, and now she is all set to sweep Indian viewers off their feet as Mahira Khan visits Mumbai, Delhi and Lucknow to meet and greet her fans. Mahira, who was seen on Indian television for the first time on Zindagi’s romantic drama, Humsafar, has made time from her hectic schedule, to especially thank Indian viewers for the adulation they have showered on Pakistani actors who have been a part of all shows on Zindagi.
Launched on June 23, India’s first premium Hindi Entertainment Channel – Zindagi is the only GEC with content produced overseas. Mahira’s visit to India strengthens the channel’s proposition Jodey Dilon Ko as the actress represents the Pakistani actors fraternity who have become household names in India with their work on Zindagi. A perfect combination of an artist with exquisite allure and a fantastic flair for acting, Mahira Khan talking about her visit to India, “Zindagi’s initiative to build bridges and dissolve boundaries between India and Pakistan has been revolutionary, as the Indian audiences have warmly received our shows from across the border. On behalf of the entire Pakistani entertainment industry, I want to say that we are humbled to receive so much appreciation from this country. The kind of love and adulation that has been showered on my show,
Humsafar, and my character Khirad, is truly exhilarating. India is a beautiful country that values talent, and I consider myself amongst the lucky few from Pakistan to have my work recognised and appreciated here.” Welcoming Mahira in India, Priyanka
Datta, business head, Zindagi said, “The response to Zindagi has been overwhelming and we thank our audiences for this unconditional acceptance for good story- telling. With
Zindagi, our aim is to cater to the new age women with progressive mind-sets whose primary concern is to create a perfect work-life balance.”
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Colors ‘ much- loved show, Shastri sisters recently completed it’s 100th episode. We will soon see a new twist in the serial as Swati Kumar (as Karishma) is all set to cause havoc in the lives of Anushka (played by IshitaGanguly) and Rajat (played by Vijayendra Kumeria). While the two love birds have so far been seen sacrificing their feelings for Devyani’s happiness, things will take a turn when Rajat finally declares his feelings for Anushka. Another fresh face, joining the young talent brigade, Swati Kumar is very excited to join the cast of Shastri Sisters. Commenting on her new role, she says, “I have been following the show closely and I love the way the track has taken turns. Although, my character is essentially a negative one, given a chance I would love to play Devyani’s character. Her character is so bubbly and chirpy!” The 24 year-old further said that she has studied Sudha Chandran’s acting career very closely and is treating it as a tutorial for her role as Karishma. Interestingly. Sudha Chandran, who has played several negative roles in her acting career is seen sporting a positive role in the serial.
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The year ahead
If your birthday is November 19...
Since Sun is your ruling planet, you will be dignified, assertive, humble, mature, optimistic, positive and selfless. If your Moon sign is also Scorpio, you are under the influence of Saturn’s sadhesati for the next 5 years. You are determined to stay on the top of your debt than ever before — even if that means working yourself to the bone. You have the gift of maximizing your resources and connections with powerful people. Positive colours: Golden , red , maroon Select days: Sunday , Monday & Tuesday Favourable numbers: 1,4 ,2,7 & 9 Gems recommended: Sunstone ,Ruby
You share birthday with Sushmita Sen November 19,1975 Hyderabad, ] who won the title of Miss India. Her biggest hit has been the 2004 movie Main Hoon Na. Her stars reveal success in films till she lives.
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Astro turf
ARIES: The card Nine of Wards makes it a day of enjoyment and opportunity. Trust that variety is the spice of life and go with the flow.
Tarot message: Don’t be bullied into accepting situations you dislike. Lucky colour: Royal blue.
Magic number: 41.
TAURUS: You will have no problem getting along with members of the family. Romance is under thoughtful stars. Routine attendance at groups or meetings may be re-scheduled. Do not resist the changes as it all works out for the best. Tarot message: Take limited risks. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 62. GEMINI: Business matters may not turn out to be as straight forward as they first appear. Discuss important moves that you wish to make with influential people. Tarot message: Balance and will lead you out of a problematic situation. CANCER: “The King of Swords” suggests that make a real effort on the job because laziness, incompetence and inadequate performances won’t be tolerated by the bosses; clients or customers. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid the in build delays that comes your way. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 26. LEO: Thoroughly check the ‘things to do’ list and clear as many items as possible. You will be surprised how good you feel after this. Turn your attention to home and family than romance. Tarot message: Make a deciding choice and then live with the outcome of your decision. Lucky colour: Brown. VIRGO: Love affairs will blossom, but do not go on face value. Dress in alluring fashion for maximum appeal but steer away from rough venues and unpalatable types. Success comes only with hard work. Tarot message: You are advised to focus on professional changes. Lucky colour: Ebony. LIBRA: The support, tips and kicks of an expert will help you master whatever subject you are committed to learning. Health wise; cut down salt and increase liquid intake. Tarot message: Cut away the frills and concentrate on what is truly important. SCORPIO: Personal plans will have to be put aside. This evening is ideal for serious discussion or a heart- to- heart with your partner. Venus is so powerful that sexual energy is strong today. Tarot message: Do not refuse offers without seeking the advice from someone else. Lucky colour: Metallic grey. Magic number: 30. SAGITTARIUS: Better day for dealing with accounts than trying to start anything important. Time spent alone on reading and studying will not be wasted. Indeed; a perfect day for family together. Tarot message: Try not to get carried away by your initial success. Lucky colour: Ebony. CAPRICORN: Socially, a hectic evening ahead. Health gives no tension at all. Watch out for potential arguments or ill-temper especially if alcohol is part of the scene. Tarot message: Be articulate to prevent people from making their own conclusions. AQUARIUS: After a busy period of seasonal celebration you will be glad to kick back and take it easy. Frank discussion could clear the air. Tarot message: Do not let opposition faze you when you decide to walk the path you wanted to. PISCES: Your overall situation should improve. A romantic impulse can grab you and acts of sweet kindness and loving appreciation can endear you to lovers, family and friends. |
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Personal note
This day shall be marked in my life diary as one of the most special — going to my school, Sacred Heart Convent, Ludhiana, as the guest of honour on the golden jubilee celebrations! One fine day, I received a call from the principal of the school inviting me for the function and I knew I had to make it anyhow. It was an honour and a walk down memory lane. So, I booked my flight immediately. I was looking forward to meeting up with old friends as well; people I love and always will.
Charity on Birthday: Donate green dress to eunuchs and seek their blessings.