The depth of sound
Musician Susmit Sen, former member of famous band Indian Ocean, believes music fills the gap where all languages fall short…
Somya Abrol

He doesn’t have a fixation with water bodies. Yet, his first album was called Depths of the Ocean, the second, Ocean to Ocean, and his former band — Indian Ocean. Former founding member and guitarist of the Indian fusion band, Susmit Sen graced a literary event in Chandigarh recently, and is glad to see the inclusion of musicians at such events. “I’m certainly looking forward to more participation of musicians at literary festivals, especially since the music scene is going through a healthy evolution.”

Wide split

Though his infamous split from Indian Ocean happened in June 2013, it is only inevitable that we ask him about his decision to part with the band after a 23-year-long association. In 1990, Susmit Sen, along with drummer and tabla player Asheem Chakravarty laid the foundation of Indian Ocean, which was later joined by Rahul Ram and Amit Kilam. Ask her what led to the split and he, after initial reluctance to the inevitable question, says, “Twenty-three years is a long time. I did not leave the band because of ego clashes, contrary to popular belief. And no, the decision wasn’t linked to Asheem’s demise. I had been talking to the guys much before I took the final decision of leaving. I had been making music with them for way too long; I needed to get out, collaborate with some new people and explore other realms of music, with a fresh bent of mind. That’s how Susmit Sen Chronicles came into being.”

New beginning

Susmit, who has often been compared to English musician John McLaughlin and American guitarist Jerry Garcia, takes pride in never having played a cover in his life! Talking about Susmit Sen Chronicles, he says, “I had already done the first album of Susmit Sen Chronicles while I was still with Indian Ocean. We had to go leave soon after, so I had to move on from Indian Ocean. Our idea with Susmit Sen Chronicles is to reach out to as many people as possible, because of which, our line-up also keeps changing. Right now, Susmit Sen Chronicles comprises Varun Gupta (tabla), Anirban Ghosh (bass guitar), Nikhil Vasudeva (percurssion), Amit Shah (vocals) and Sudhir Rikhari (vocals). I recently collaborated with English rock and blues guitarist Bernie Marsden for a single, and have a long way ahead. I just know that I still have a lot of compositions inside of me that I want to explore.”

Language code

So, what comes first – the notes or the emotion? “Notes and music are two very different things. Emotions lie in the expression of music. Music fills the gaps where all languages fall short, when we can’t express ourselves with words music more than makes up. So, I guess both emotions and notes are intertwined. One can’t function without the other,” he says.

Currently, Susmit Sen is travelling with his ensemble across the country on an Ocean to Ocean tour.

somya@tribunemail.com

Right in the act
Television actor Sumeet Raghavan, of Badi Dooooor Se Aye Hain fame, says theatre is a rejuvenating experience for him
Gurvinder Singh

During a visit to Ludhiana for the promotion of Sab TV’s show Badi Dooooor Se Aye Hain, actor Sumeet Raghavan gets candid about working in the daily series, his passion for music, getting back to theatre and more. For the fulfilling experience as an actor, he turns to theatre. “I have gone back to theatre after a long time. It is a fulfilling, rejuvenating and relaxing experience for me,” says the actor.

“Though it requires a thorough preparation and actors still tend goof-up during the first show, it is still a great experience,” he says. But it is not possible without professionalism and ethics. “I have seen a noted actor on stage, waving to the audience and saying ‘hi’ to an acquaintance! That is not professionalism.”

He believes that like in the West, where even established actors and superstars perform on the Broadway theatre, it is the responsibility of Bollywood stars to be a part of theatre and promote it. Raghavan says music is his retreat. “Music comes before acting for me,” says the actor who plays piano, guitar and harmonium. He has even recorded a song! Although he has sung in a music reality show, he does not want to go professional.

Talking about his latest show Badi Dooooor Se Aye Hain, he says, “There will be a twist and it is going to be fun.” He has previously worked in the serial Sarabhai vs Sarabhai. The rigour of shooting for a daily television serial is indeed hectic. “It does get to you sometimes. But then we do try to squeeze in breaks and outings for a change. Not just the actors, even the rest of the crew is also working, including the script-writer, who is constantly writing dialogues for you. “We are still better off, as we just speak the dialogues written by them,” he says. “From January onwards, we are hoping to get at least a Sunday off for ourselves,” he smiles. 

Play act

Varsha Bhosale, who was part of the visiting team, enjoys being part of the series. She too started with theatre. “I was part of Marathi theatre and did more than ten plays, all of them comedies, before I got this role. I am having a really good time with other members of the team,” she says.

gurvinder@tribunemail.com

Ocean treasure
SeaSoul, an Australian skincare brand, brings its treasures to the City Beautiful
Mona
Manisha Chopra
Manisha Chopra

Come bridal season and the hunt for that perfect attire, looks and manner begins. Keeping this in mind, Headmasters, a salon in Chandigarh, has tied-up with SeaSoul, an organic skincare brand from Australia, for its services and products.

Manisha Chopra, co-founder, SeaSoul, who came calling to the city to promote her brand, informs, “SeaSoul Dead Sea customised facial starts with a skin analysis, the facial treatments and is customised for every client.” Three years old, SeaSoul uses Dead Sea minerals and berry, and fruit extracts to make products. Manisha agrees that organic, natural, Ayurvedic and herbal are the four abused terms in the business today, but also assures that her products are surely free of chemicals.

As many as 16 products from SeaSoul promise to look after your face, body, hands and feet. While their homecare range starts from ~400 onwards, the facial begins from ~1,200 onwards.

For a bride, Headmasters offers a range of services that you can avail from two months before the D-day or two days prior, depending on your schedule. However, Manisha suggests giving two-three months time for the body to get ready. “Wedding is a stressful time and our treatments not only enhance looks, but also rejuvenate the body and the mind.”

The tie-up with SeaSoul came after a long trial. “We acknowledge that we cater to the premium segment, but we are also committed to providing value for money. We tested the products for a period of two months till we gave a go-ahead, satisfied with our patrons and therapists’ feedback,” says Veer Kaul, managing director, Headmasters. A 40:60 ratio of men and women patronising the salon, Veer shares, “Though the number of women hitting the salons is larger, it’s the men’s market that is growing at a faster pace.

 

Colour code

Pammy Kaul, technical advisor, Headmasters, picks up red and oranges for this wedding season. “Just back from a Manish Malhotra show, it’s big and beautiful that I go for,” says Pammy, who suggests minimalist jewellery and elaborate hairdos for to-be brides.

mona@tribunemail.com

Doc Talk
Align & smile
Dr Ankur Dixit

Many patients visit dentists quite concerned about their facial proportions not being ideal. However, there are many parents who think that a slightly flat face or protruding chin is an attractive feature of their child, not knowing that it could be a worrying sign.

Face off

The forehead
If we start at the top of the face, we find there are often contrasts between the inclination of the forehead and the facial plane. This is due to lack of lower facial development and a resulting pharyngeal airway restriction, which causes the patient to tilt his or her head to restore their airway. The angle between the frontal bone and the base of the skull frequently changes during growth and treatment. This is because over time the face will move independently from the cranial vault.

The nose
Large noses are a constant feature of severe malocclusions. Vertical growth of the maxilla is reflected in the shape and position of the nose as it ‘hinges’ down from the lower edges of the nasal bones.

Lip form
It is believed that lip form is inherited or lip form is largely determined by lip posture.

Perfect pout

  • Lips naturally sealed at rest are always associated with excellent appearance and occlusion.
  • Lips up to 4 mm apart at rest are associated with mild lower crowding.
  • Lips 4 to 8 mm apart at rest are associated with more general crowding.
  • Lips 8 to 12mm apart at rest will have a severe skeletal malocclusion.
  • Lips over 12mm apart suggest extreme vertical growth and will require surgery or alternatively orthodontic treatment from a young age.

Tongue & cheek

Against palate: These patients will have ‘Ideal Occlusion’

Touching upper teeth: These patients may have ‘Slight Crowding’.

Covering the lingual cusps: These patients will have ‘Lingual Inclination’.

Covering lower buccal cusps: These patients will have a Deep or Open Bite depending on tongue position and Scalloping.

Against lower teeth: These patients will have protruded jaw.

Awareness among parents regarding developing malocclusion in their children, from the age of six, is very important. If required, seek orthodontic treatment at the right time.

(Dr Dixit is a Panchkula-based dental surgeon)

Something for all!

When it comes to shopping, most of us have been romancing the idea of end of season sales. So, it’s time to visit the pre-winter exhibition, titled Trends, at the Kisan Bhawan soon. “We bring this exhibition to the Chandigarh folks before summer, during Raksha Bandhan and before winter. So, this is the third exhibition in the city,” says Pankaj Jain of The Rising, the organiser of the exhibition. On display will be apparel, jewellery and also lifestyle items such as furniture and antiques. “We will display a list of handlooms and Muraadabadi showpieces made with metal,” says Pankaj. “We have some Pakistani exhibitors coming for the show too,” he adds. Mankiran Kaur of Gikks, who will be exhibiting designer stoles and shawls, adds, “We have shawls in digital prints on pashmina, scarves and stoles. Also we are launching all-weather silk dupattas, which are warm during winter and cool during summer.”

Rashminder Kohli of Glitz and Gems shares that she will be setting up a stall of traditional and ethnic jewellery, and gems. (On at Kisan Bhawan from November 21-23). —TNS

star track
A sweet message

If there is anyone who is happy for Shraddha Kapoor’s back-to-back success with Aashiqui 2, Ek Villain and now Haider, apart from her family, it is her house help. This domestic help has been in Shraddha’s house from the time she was a kid and she has been there with her throughout.

Post the success of Haider, she was so proud and happy for Shraddha that she bought her a small gift. She personally went and picked up a congratulatory card and a small Ganesh idol for her. Shraddha was very touched with this kind gesture and gave her a tight hug.

Girls, it’s Vir Das now!

Actor Vir Das tied the knot with Shivani Mathur after a five year courtship at a highly secret ceremony on October 19 in Sri Lanka. Talking about his marriage Vir said, “We wanted to have a small ceremony for our wedding, there were only about 100 people, comprising family and close friends.” He further added “I preferred my wedding to be a quiet affair. The rule at the wedding event was that everyone switched off their smart-phones to spend quality time with each other.”

The wedding consisted of a pool party, a rock concert, the sangeet ceremony and then the pheras. A source close to Vir said, “Owing to Vir and Shivani’s busy schedule, the couple haven’t had the time to go for a honeymoon, but would be soon taking time out.”

The actor is quiet excited about 2015 as he has around 4-5 mainstream Hindi language feature films slated for release next year. It will also be an important year for Vir as all his characters he essays in these films would be unique establishing his versatility on screen as well. Santa Banta and Mastizaade are a few of his films which will release in the first half of 2015 itself. We wish the newly-weds all the joy and happiness in the world!

As loyal as they come

Actor Benedict Cumberbatch and fiancee Sophie Hunter made their first red carpet appearance together recently. The couple recently announced their plan to walk down the aisle, reports a website. Hunter joined her fiance at the New York City premiere of The Imitation Game, which casts Cumberbatch as mathematician Alan Turing. Cumberbatch said it was nice to have such a loyal following and added: “But the only support I really need, to be honest, is the woman I love, who I proposed to.” —IANS

Bhansali’s latest muse

Patralekha has been cast in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s next film, which will be directed by writer Anuradha Tiwary who has worked on movies like Heroine and Jail. Sharman Joshi has been cast as the male lead and he will play a theatre director in the film. Bhansali loves Sharman’s work.

Nothing doing, he’s married!

Pulkit Samrat recently got married and he is currently on a honeymoon. Maybe, it has something to do with the fact that he is married now, but he has walked out of Sonam Nair’s No Sex Please, We’re Indians. It is a sex comedy produced by Dharma Productions. So now the director has to hunt for a new face.

Shahid’s problem of plenty

Shahid Kapoor is currently busy shooting for his next film, which is Vikas Bahl’s Shaandar, in Leeds U.K. The actor delivered an outstanding performance with his recent film Haider, for which he received accolades from all quarters. Everyone around the actor has been constantly assuring him of his performance and how he will bag all the awards this year. In fact, the people on the sets and Vikas Bahl keep teasing Shahid that he will receive so many awards, that he will have no space to keep them. Shahid is humbled by all the appreciation. Haider recently won the first award of the season – People’s Choice Awards at the Rome Film Festival.

Looking forward to a happy ending?

Saif Ali Khan and Ileana D’Cruz starrer Happy Ending is releasing this Friday. It is a quirky romantic comedy and it seems to be right up Saif’s ally. We are hoping that he will bounce back with this movie. But for now, here is why you should see it!

Saif Ali Khan

Saif Ali Khan never fails to give us the laughs. With Happy Ending, the actor is back in his element. He will be seen playing a double role in the film, one of a writer and the other of a failed rockstar. Both roles are interesting.

Govinda

Govinda is on a roll. After his full-fledged comeback with Kill Dil, which released last week, Happy Ending is his second big release of the year in which he plays an almost-sleazy, playing to the gallery film producer. There’s also a bonus for his fans as we get to see his madcap dancing antics in one of the songs.

Ensemble cast

The movie has Saif Ali Khan and Ileana D’cruz in the lead, while Govinda and Kalki Koechlin play supporting roles. The film also stars Ranvir Shorey, who never fails to tickle our funny bones. The trailers show us a glimpse of Kareena Kapoor Khan and Preity Zinta who will appear in cameos. This is such an eclectic mix!

As for the music

The duo of Sachin-Jigar has once again churned up fabulous music. From ballads to peppy dance music, they ace at everything. Some of the songs have already set the nation dancing to its beats and double-meaning, laugh-out-loud lyrics.

chatter box
Get set to revisit history

After much anticipation, The Epic Channel made its debut on television screens on November 19. Spearheaded by Mahesh Samat, managing director, The Epic Television Networks is the first genre specific Hindi entertainment channel that will showcase content based on Indian history, mythology and folklore in a uniquely contemporary format.

Mukesh Ambani, Anand Mahindra and Rohit Khattar are promoters of the company. The Epic Channel is a celebration of our rich culture and ancient history with astounding tales retold in an entertaining manner and compelling narrative. The channel aims to cater to a large set of audiences and gives them an opportunity to choose content of their liking in a specific genre.

Anand Mahindra, chairman and managing director, Mahindra & Mahindra, said, “The landscape of Hindi entertainment is undergoing a dramatic transformation. In order to appeal to a far more evolved audience, and to sustain their engagement, there is definitely a need for a revolution in the broadcast space. We have all been entertained with the history and mythology of India through books and grandparents’ stories. These stories will now come to life and can be enjoyed on television in a contemporary manner.”

Samat said, “As the day of a new beginning approaches after much anticipation, we launch The Epic Channel with great pride and pleasure. We aim to bring a whole new experience for the television viewers with an innovative segmented Hindi entertainment channel. With a contemporary take on the rich history of India, our objective is to give the audiences an opportunity to consume genre-specific content to suit their liking.”

The channel goes on air with its four driver shows, namely, Siyaasat, Dharmakshetra, Dariba Diaries and Daanav Hunters. It also has an interesting mix of non-fiction shows like Adrishya, a show about Indian spies, and Ekaant, the story of abandoned places.

On the road

Actress Esha Deol is set to make her television debut with reality show, Roadies. She will be seen as one of the judges on the show. Confirming the news, Esha tweeted: ‘Roadies !!! Get ready!!!’ Let’s see how she fares on television!

Barun’s love for Sallu

Television actor Barun Sobti is working hard for his debut Bollywood film, Main Aur Mr. Riight. Very few people know that Barun is a big fan of Salman and his look in the film is completely inspired by the star.

Barun will be seen sporting Being Human t-shirts with long hair, which Salman sported in Tere Naam. This hairstyle had become a rage when Tere Naam released. Every second fan was wearing it. Barun will also be seen swearing on the name of Salman Khan. Also, to get completely in the skin of Salman, Barun did workshops and saw many films of the actor.

Exploring India

Actress Sara Khan, who was last seen in Total Siyappa, is all set to return to television. The actress, who is still famous for her role in Dhoondh Legi Manzil Humein, will be hosting a travel show titled Kahi Suni: Myths and Legends of India, on an upcoming channel.

Dressed to kill

The upcoming track on Zee TV’s primetime drama Qubool Hai is going to keep its audience on the edge of their seats, as it showcases the same exhilarating sequence, which was essayed by Tabu in Haider. In the coming episodes, Tanveer (played by Amrapali Gupta) will present Sunehri, who is currently impersonating Sanam (Surbhi Jyoti), with a bridal dupatta on the day that she is tying the knot with Aahil (Karanvir Bohra). Sunehri, unaware about the fact that the dupatta is dotted with explosives will accept it as a gift. Will she be able to see the dupatta beyond its glitter?

Kher joins cast of Sense 8

Many Indian actors have shot for American TV shows. After Nimrat and Rahul Khanna, it’s actor Anupam Kher, who recently shot with Australian filmmaker James McTeigue for American science fiction drama Sense 8 in Mumbai. He tweeted: “It was really a great experience to be part of Wachowsky’s amazing series SENSE8 for Netflix. Wonderful team.”

Sania’s small-screen debut

After achieving many accolades in her illustrious sports career, tennis player Sania Mirza is ready to rock the small screen. She is all set to play the role of an airplane captain and tutor men on how to win a woman’s heart in ‘Bond’ style at The Pix School of Bonding. Sania will share secrets during the Bond film festival. The PIX School of Bonding starts November 22 on Sony Pix.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is November 20...

As you are influenced by your ruling planet, moon, you will be creative, honest, aspiring, cheerful, courteous and highly decisive. Keep your heart and arms wide open and graciously receive. You love lavishing your friends, colleagues and lovers with decadent gifts. Pay close attentions to the messages, symbols and images that show up in both your waking and dream state. Mental turmoil and turbulence, as work pressure builds up. Monetary gains will be from various sources. Loved ones might be annoyed if you do not spend time with them. Wrong communication or a message might make your day dull. You will feel that your spouse is trying to make you feel inferior.

Positive colours: White, sky blue, pink

Select days: Monday and Sunday

Favourable numbers: 2, 4, 7 and 1

Gems recommended: Pearl, opal, yellow sapphire

Charity on Birthday: Feed the cows yellow chana daal and gur.

You share your birthday with Tusshar Kapoor (November 20, 1976, Mumbai), son of actor Jeetendra and Shobha Kapoor and brother of Ekta Kapoor, who made his debut with Mujhe Kuch Kehna Hai opposite Kareena Kapoor. Saturn will give his career a boost in coming years.

Astro turf
p Khurrana

ARIES: The Devil suggests that your relationship can be shaken and stirred. Start worrying about what can go wrong. A temptation to overindulge might not be good for your credit card debt. Tarot message: Don’t forsake a new learning opportunity because of pride. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 56.

TAURUS: Follow a good routine of exercise and diet. Focus on the little things that need to be done. Stay away from all intrigue. Pay attention to your personal relationships. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid any delays. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 27.

GEMINI: You could have accidents simply because you forget to look before you leap. Be careful about your financial situation. Be logical in your thinking and stay positive. Tarot message: Work could pose minor difficulties, but do not worry. Lucky colour: Rainbow pastels. Magic number: 30.

CANCER: Flattery, charm, and a willingness to be bold will bring success. You may have little trouble with some of your dearest friends. An evening event could test your nerves. Tarot message: Your determination to succeed will pay dividends. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 50.

LEO: You are about to meet someone special today. This is a great day for socializing. You could get invited to a lavish event that may make you feel a little conscious. Tarot message: You must learn to accept responsibility for self and others. Lucky colour: Silver grey. Magic number: 44.

VIRGO: Ten of Pentacles promises self-confidence so, trust your instincts today. Opportunities to socialize and mix with all and sundry will put many choices in your path. Tarot message: Don’t let the unpleasant set of events bother you. Lucky colour: Sea green. Magic number: 35.

LIBRA: Your earning power could kick into high gear, so be on the lookout for money taking opportunities. An intimate connection with that special someone is worth pursuing. Tarot message: Use your instinct to get into the top circle of power. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 46.

SCORPIO: A restless and irritable atmosphere could pervade the morning. Avoid letting someone’s bad mood ruin your day. Don’t let an opportunity pass you by. There may be many benefits awaiting you. Tarot message: Don’t be dismissive of advice from youthful origin. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 25.

SAGITTARIUS: Stick to your work and avoid treading on a new territory. This is not a day for clear thinking or making decisions. An imminent journey can put you through emotional turmoil. Tarot message: Be articulate. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 39.

CAPRICORN: An enthusiastic mood is encouraged by your card The World. You will be willing to help people. Your loved ones may not be as enthusiastic about your plans as you are. Tarot message: Do not divest assets or transact in uncertain matters. Lucky colour: Sky blue. Magic number: 48.

AQUARIUS: Thoroughness will be your key to success. Avoid being caught up in conversations that divert you from your course. Otherwise, you can chat away the time you have for work. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Peacock green. Magic number: 63

PISCES: A conflict between your private and professional life can test your abilities. Strong views on politics or the environment might entice you to get up and speak at a public forum. Tarot message: Emphasise on your spiritual needs. Lucky colour: Metallic grey. Magic number: 28.





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