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Spreading the word
An entourage of cars — fancy, of course — makes a beeline outside a mall. Actors, invariably sporting sunglasses, even after sunset, trot to the venue. This venue could be anything from a university or a college brimming with young students to a fancy mall or even a salon! The energy is high; everyone is at their courteous best (despite the differences between co-actors and producers). Well, it is film promotion time, which simply means the most crucial period for any film. These actually are the days that determine the popularity of the film before its release. Now, coming back to the realistic situation, when the tide of Punjabi films isn’t that strong, is it wise to spend a fat share on the promotion of the film rather than raising the standard of the film? In the recent past, the budgets for the promotion of Punjabi films have extended beyond limits. Good or bad, the industry tries to put it into perspective. Check point
A film builds up hype and momentum in the last phase, with the cast and the crew trying to do everything possible to make their film a hit. The producer of Mr and Mrs 420, Rrupali is candid to admit that she has learnt a lot from the promotions of her film. “While we were promoting Mr and Mrs 420, the budgets touched as high as Rs 18-20 lakh, which included road shows, ground activities and online activites. But now people have got sick of seeing actors singing and performing in colleges every second day.” Rrupali feels it is always better to cut down the budget meant for promotions. “The audience will come only after seeing the trailer on YouTube or television. It is always better to invest money in the film,” she adds.
Hit & miss
Industry insiders say that promotion is actually a fun time for the cast, who enjoy at the expense of the producer. Manish Singh, who runs a PR agency, had a tough time during the promotion of a Punjabi film he wouldn’t want to name. “The lead actors and actresses gave the producer a tough time, and in return the producer made life hell for me.” Manish says that the actors would sit in a hotel along with their friends and next day would be shocked to see the charges. “Can you believe, the producer had to actually pay Rs 2 lakh for his one-night stay? As a punishment, the producer hasn’t paid my money.” This is one PR who has come on record; there are others who share the same problem. The question remains…is it okay to throw money on something like this when it can be used in the film? Director Anurag Singh was pretty clear that he didn’t want that usual ‘road show’ and ‘college show’ publicity for his film Punjab 1984. It was a sensitive topic and he didn’t want to make a mockery out of it.
Right choice
Gaurav Trehan, the director of Catrack Entertainment, has seen the industry swell and shrink. So, he has an objective take on the promotions. “It is like each to its own, some films require a particular kind of elaborate promotion and others don’t. If a film has a popular face then it is not okay to move around here and there with the star cast because people will invariably watch his film. But if a film has a new star cast, then it is advisable to promote the subject.” With ground promotions losing their catch, films have now turned to the online scenario. “It is effective costwise and in creating a buzz about the film,” adds Gaurav. Marketing and promotions are important for a film but if it means extra burden, there definitely has to be a way out! jasmine@tribunemail.com
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In the arms of bliss
As the fever of much happening Arpita Khan’s wedding recedes, Chandigarh gears up for its own celeb nuptials. Mumbai-born and bred television actor Simran Kaur ties knot with her pilot beau Sikander Singh Virk this weekend.
Simran who played the lead in telly show Anamika has taken a longish break to settle into the new role of the bride.
The actress, who debuted on small screen with show Love Ne Mila Di Jodi, met her beau-to-be Sikander through common friends. Though they clicked, the Delhi-guy, based in Mumbai found her too young for him and vice-versa. However, the five-year gap didn’t come between the couple who decided to tie the knot in the City Beautiful, which is home to the bride’s masi. “We barely dated. The confusion of him considering me to be younger than what I am kept us off each other’s ways,” says the actor who is settled now that her groom is five years older. “I guess I need a mature man to be the anchor of my life and five years is not that big a gap.” “I am also going to throw a grand party once back in Mumbai,” the to-be bride, whose folks are originally from Amritsar, promises. Soon after the wedding, the couple is headed to Maldives and Bali. “Wedding sure is a hectic and stressful affair, I am experiencing first-hand; we are looking up to relaxation on the pretty beaches,” says Simran who portrayed a negative character in her last show. Unlike her onscreen avatar, Simran is all for simplicity. “I fell for Sikander’s simple ways. I am a grounded person and even when choosing friends, simplicity is the first thing that clicks; when it comes to the life partner, this had to be there,” says Simran. Yes, she is on a break but it’s a short and calculated one. Used to shooting for unending hours and months for television shows, including Na Aana Iss Des Laado, Simran is already missing work. “Though TV tires you, I still love facing the camera and act. I am on a long overdue break, but would spring back to action in the following year, post settling in the new role in real life,” says the actor. For her D-day, Simran has opted for a coral Sabyasachi lehanga, which is a dream come true. The traditional wedding at a gurdwara would be followed by an elaborate lunch post wedding on November 22. mona@tribunemail.com
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Telly tale
Whether to play yourself or to get into the skin of the character; either which ways pressure can be a difficult thing to handle! Television actress Priya Bhatija has dealt with it in, perhaps, all forms. From the cut-throat dance reality shows to demanding soap operas. “I enjoyed my experience at Nach Baliye 4, even though I got eliminated during the earlier rounds,” she shares, recently seen in an episode of Yeh Hai Aashiqui — the reality show in which she participated with her then boyfriend Jatin Shah.
The joys of one-episode format have evaded the television industry for a while now. “In the show Yeh Hai Aashiqui, I play the role of life coach in a college,” she shares, a little cautious of revealing too much. She adds, “I play a college counsellor where I will be seen guiding the students.” The story revolves around the character Malini (played by Priya) who counsels, guides and inevitably falls or the rich brat struggling to find meaning in his life.” She adds, “What I liked about the show is its diverse and refreshing concept.” Meanwhile, dance has continued to be a part of life ever since Nach Baliye, even though the opportunity to star in a similar show is yet to come by. As for the limelight, that happened by chance but not until she played the role of Afreen Hussain Khan in the serial Khwaish. “Kasamh Se was my next outing after Nach Baliye. And with each character I played I learnt a lot along the way. The endeavour has always been to experiment and diversify.” Her other works include Basera, Ek Boond Ishq. Fitted in between the endeavours is a mythological drama Dwarkadheesh, wherein she plays Rukmini. That’s coming a full circle on television! manpriya@tribunemail.com
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Green & exotic
Getting the idea from a magazine, Rashmi started developing miniature gardens in baskets. Finding them so exorbitantly priced in shops, she realised that she could create them from her collection of plants. Putting a base of a green cloth, sand and manure, she plants small evergreens or flowering shrubs, decorates them with different sizes of stones and varied figurines. And so are ready her designer baskets. |
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Tale of a traveller
There is no age for adventure and Dr Sunildatta Chaudhary is a living example of the same. At the age of 53, he began his ambitious expedition of visiting the four corners of the country from Kanyakumari on October 30. He has already covered 7812 km of this expedition in a few weeks.
From Jalgaon district in Maharashtra, Chaudhary has already registered his name in the prestigious Limca Book of Records by driving down from the southernmost tip to the northern tip of India five years ago. He travelled 3,847 km in six days, 5 hours and 25 minutes beginning from Kanyakumari on May 22, 2009, and reached Leh on May 28, 2009. Chaudhary, on reaching Chandigarh, said, “I am in the second innings of my life. Planning is the key, so I have considered all possible permissions and licenses needed for this expedition. I just want to give one message to the world — one should live life to the fullest and not be afraid of taking bold steps out of fear. Life should be taken as a challenge and adventure.” Chaudhary has driven over 4 lakh kilometres in various expeditions.
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In the pink of fashion
(On November 21 at The Lalit Hotel, Chandigarh)
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Treat time
The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, Sector 22, Chandigarh, a leader in product innovation, launches new menu with 18 new offerings, including Pop Cakes, for the first time in India. Indulge with the new selection of mouth-watering wraps, quesadillas, breakfast combos, cheese cakes and desserts. The innovative menu is especially created to appeal to every taste and occasion. The menu is segregated into three different sections, namely Breakfast, Gourmet and Bakery. In the Breakfast section there is the newly introduced Power Packed Combos. These Combos are destined to be a sure-shot hit among the youngsters because of the sheer range and variety.
Coming to the bakery section, there is no better way to eat a cake than in the form of pop cake. Some new additions to the delightful sweets include Hazelnut Chocolate Mousse Cake, Almond Cake, Oatmeal, Dates & Cranberry Muffin, Classic Chocolate Muffin and Chicago Cheese Cake. — TNS
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Fulfilling a childhood dream
Sidharth Malhotra will be seen essaying the role of a fighter in his upcoming film Brothers. The actor was ecstatic to learn about the role and was half sold to the role even before he read the script. Sidharth was very keen to step into the shoes of a fighter. As an actor Sidharth likes to push the envelope. Right from the first film Student of the Year to the guy-next-door in Hasee Toh Phasee to the grungy angry young man in Ek Villain, Sidharth is busy experimenting with his roles. Playing a fighter and getting into the skin of one, Sidharth would get a chance to go beyond his boundaries and try something distinctive. Even while growing up Sidharth was fond of watching WWF and WWE. Like every boy, Sidharth also wanted to grow up and do some action. The actor has changed his physique and put on eight to ten kgs. He also likes to do all his stunts on his own. He has been in a strenuous working out schedule and has also learnt mixed martial arts for the same. Sidharth is getting a lot of appreciation for his look change. His bulky appearance is earning him praise from all quarters.
More in the offing
After winning the prestigious NETPAC (Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema) award for Best Asian Film at the 39th Toronto International Film Festival, director Shonali Bose’s Margarita, With a Straw will be the only Indian film to compete for Grand Prix Award in the International Competition at 17th edition of Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival in Estonia. Produced by Viacom18 Motion Pictures, Ishan Talkies, Jakhotia Group and ADAPT, Margarita, With a Straw will be screened on 24th November 2014. The Kalki Koechlin starrer Margarita, With a Straw is a slice of life film wherein Laila embarks on the journey to seek love and acceptance. Undeterred by cerebral palsy, Laila sets out to find the unpredictable yet exhilarating path of her own desires. The film’s impressive ensemble cast includes Sayani Gupta and British actor William Moseley.
Kim Kardashian’s date with India called off
The India trip of American reality TV star Kim Kardashian has reportedly been cancelled over visa issues. "Unfortunately, Kim will not be able to enter the country due to some visa issue", said a source. However, the exact reason behind cancellation has not been disclosed. "The reason is not clear but all we know is that there was some visa issue which she could not fulfill and the trip has been cancelled," the source added. The 34-year-old star was supposed to come to the country to promote her new fragrance Fleur Fatale. The reality TV star is on a world tour for its promotional activities. Kardashian had a packed schedule for her India trip, which included making an appearance in Salman Khan-hosted reality show Bigg Boss 8. — IANS Friends forever
Actress Jennifer Aniston had reportedly organised an Irish-themed bachelorette party for her friend and actress Courteney Cox, who will soon marry Snow Patrol band member Johnny McDaid. According to a source, the 45-year-old hosted a party for Cox at Los Angeles. It was attended by 11 of her close friends including McDaid’s mother Pauline. “Jen went all out and had decorated the dining table with green and white bouquets, hand-made mint chocolate truffles and green velvet cupcakes, green and white napkins with shamrock place settings and Celtic charm champagne glasses,” a publication quoted a source as saying. The source added that Cox’s future husband “Johnny even made an appearance at the end of the meal”. —
IANS
Timeless beauty
Former beauty queen and actress Sushmita Sen, who was last seen in Anees Bazmee’s No Problem, celebrated her thirty ninth birthday on November 19. Sen will be next seen in Bengali film Nirbaak, which is expected to release early next year. The first look of the film was recently released.
Govinda flaunts his six-packs!
After Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan and Akshay Kumar, it is Govinda’s turn to take us all by surprise with his chiseled body and six pack abs. Govinda, who is in a comeback mode, has not only danced to the chartbusting track G Phaad Ke but he also acquired six pack abs for Happy Ending. He will be seen playing a Bollywood megastar Armaan in Happy Ending in a fitter and leaner avatar. When the makers discussed the idea with Govinda, he readily agreed to it. Director Raj and DK add, “Govinda is such a sport, he agreed to the idea right away. He is a dude!” What we hear is, Govinda was very excited to play this character and loved every bit of his role. The film, which also stars Saif Ali Khan, Ileana D’Cruz, Kalki Koechlin, and Ranvir Shorey, is set to release on November 21.
Fun on the sets
Actor Ram Kapoor, who is currently shooting with Sunny Leone in Malaysia for Kuch Kuch Locha Hain, is all praise for his co-star. He said: “Sunny is so much fun to work with, she is an absolute darling!” The film, which was earlier titled Patel Rap, is being directed by Devang Dholakia.
Mona Singh’s tryst with de-glam looks continues...
Most heroines, given an opportunity, would love to look ‘hot and sexy’ on screen. But for Mona Singh, sexy is what the character is. In her upcoming film, Zed Plus, her tryst with de-glamourised looks continues. “I have always believed in taking risks. Of course, I would love to play a sexy character. But for me what matters is not how I will look, but what my role is,” reveals Mona who plays a very strong character in the film opposite Adil Hussain. In 3 Idiots, too, she was pregnant throughout while her hit television serial saw her in a de-glam look for most part of the series. While the hostess, continues to be a huge draw for hosting television shows in her glamorous avatar, on the big screen, it is a different ride altogether. Zed Plus promises to catapult the actress in a different league and the actress is sure the audience is going to love every moment of the film.
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Playing a statesman…
New Look
I was nervous before shaving my head. But once it was done, I felt very liberated. I started feeling like I was another character. It was supposed to happen much later, but I begged Mr Bhansali (Sanjay Leela Bhansali) to allow me to do it earlier because it allowed me to live with my bald look longer and help me get used to it. I am very happy with my bald look. Big risk
A lot of people told me, 'How can you shave your head for Bajirao Mastani? How can you give more than one year for the shoot at this stage of your career?' I told them that I was aware it was a huge commitment... first to go bald, and then give a year's time when you can make three films. But I know if this works, it will create history. Playing different roles
I like to play diverse characters and luckily I have been able to do so. I should look and feel different as that's my job. I don't like actors who repeat themselves. You get into a habit and then you know what you can expect from that actor. For me it's more exciting to watch actors who aren't predictable. I would count it an achievement if people said that they weren't watching Ranveer Singh on screen but watching a character. Real/reel Life
I usually start living all my characters for real and they affect me. I remember my father and I had gone out for dinner and he told me that I was behaving seriously. I mould myself to the character. I have worked very hard for Bajirao's character. I had to imbibe his body language, talking and walking style. After all, he was a statesman. Ram Leela was just a warm up for Bajirao Mastani. This is a much more difficult character. I have to put my 100 per cent into Bajirao's role.
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Fitness first
TV actor Gaurav Bajaj recently celebrated his 26th birthday and gifted himself a luxury car. He says, "I bought a Mercedes E Class. I am crazy about cars!” About the party, he adds, "The pool party was organised by wife Vanshika at our farm house. It was a day-long party. I let my hair down and I splurged on food without worrying about calories."
Ready to be spooked?
Sony TV is all set to bring its popular horror show, Aahat, after a gap of more than two years. Actors Shakti Anand and Sukhmani Sadana recently shot for the first episode. We look forward to it.
Back with a bang
Actress Sandhya Mridul, who was seen in popular shows like Banegi Apni Baat, Koshish and Hu Ba Hu, is all set to return to television after a hiatus. She will be seen playing the role of a mother in TV show Private Investigator. It will air December 7 onwards.
Improving cross-border relations
Pakistani superstar Humaima Malik to star opposite famous model Aditya Singh Rajput in Huawei Mobiles TV commercial for Pakistan. It is a well-known fact that Pakistani actors have left a mark in Bollywood with big projects. Ali Zafar, Fawad Khan and Sara Loren are some examples. Even Humaima Malick has done a film over here. It's not very often that Indian actors have done Pakistani projects; working for the neighboring country has definitely improved peace and love in between India and Pakistan. Indian model Aditya Singh Rajput says, ''It's always amazing to work for Pakistan brands, I've done 13 projects there, thanks to Haris Quader, who produces the biggest commercials there; they are like family to me." Directed by Aussie director Jeff, three countries will be merging together in this one project, Aditya says, “I take it as a great work-cum-holiday where I am always treated with great respect. We shoot, we party and it’s so much of fun. We always shoot in Bangkok!'' Humaima Malik, who featured in Raja Natwarlal opposite Emraan Hashmi, is starring in two more Bollywood movies. All praises for his co-star, Aditya reveals, “Humaima is an amazing person to work with; she is very easy going. I had a blast shooting with her.”
Raghu Ram, Rajiv out of Roadies
Host Raghu Ram has quit MTV's famous reality show Roadies. Rumour has it that he was removed from the show for bad behaviour. However, he vehemently denied the news and tweeted: "Fired from roadies?? Wrote it in my book that I was moving on. I've my own company and am doing very well for myself, thank you. MTV source, please get over my quitting roadies. (sic)" Rajiv Laxman has also quit the show. Rannvijay, on the other hand, will continue as the host in the upcoming season of the show.
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Happy Ending
Director: Raj Nidimora
and DK Krishna Happy Ending stars Saif Ali Khan, Ileana D’Cruz, Kalki Koechlin, Govinda and Ranveer Shorey. It is co-produced by Saif Ali Khan’s banner, Illuminati Films, along with Eros International and has been directed by Raj Nidimora and DK Krishna of Go Goa Gone fame. Kareena Kapoor Khan and Preity Zinta play cameos in this film, which is set to release all over today. The film is a romantic comedy and is about a flamboyant writer who was once successful, but is unable to find any takers for his work. This rom-com has drama with a hilarious plot. Ileana D’Cruz will be seen playing an author and Saif Ali Khan’s character will be seen sporting three different looks. The mega comic star of Bollywood, Govinda, is all set to be comically fit in a long special appearance and also acquires a hot six-pack for this film.
Titoo MBA
Director: Amit Vats Nishant Dahiya, a software engineer and model-turned-actor plays the lead role with Pragya Jaiswal, a renowned actress who is also working in South-Indian films. The other supporting stars are Nandini Singh, Anchal Singh, Abhishek Sharma and Puja Ballutia. This one is a light-hearted comedy, which showcases the story of an ambitious Chandigarh boy who dreams of becoming a big businessman. — Dharam Pal
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The year ahead
If your birthday is November 21...
Being born on the 21st is likely to add a good bit of vitality to your life. The energy of 3 allows you to bounce back rapidly from setbacks, physical or mental. In January, you will tend to squander emotive and psychic energy. Those who make propositions will be listened to favorably and their merits will be recognised. Spending may be on the rise, but it does appear to be for necessities and ‘fun/enjoyable’ things, events and improvements. Positive colors: Yellow, cream and sea green Select days: Thursday, Friday and Tuesday. Favourable numbers: 3, 6, and 9 Gems recommended: Yellow sapphire, sardonyx Charity on birthday: Donate milk or milk products to physically challenged, poor people.
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Astro turf
ARIES: The need is to be vigilant, as someone at office might try to harm your interest or reputation. Call friends you haven't seen for a long time.
Tarot message: You have well-wishers around, who will give you sound advice. Lucky colour: Turquoise.
Magic number: 60.
TAURUS: Finances and investments would take up a major chunk today. This is also a good time to deal with loans. Businessmen may decide to take care of their portfolios, stocks and shares.
Tarot message: Take limited risks; don’t jeopardize capitals. Lucky colour: Aqua GEMINI: Many of you may receive some sound counsel from unexpected sources, so pay attention to everything you hear. Those of you facing a cash crunch may be helped out be a friend. CANCER: This may be quite a surprising and rewarding day. Many of you may receive bonuses or pay hikes that were unexpected, while others may receive appreciation for hard work. There would be monetary profits today. Tarot message: Leave things open-ended. LEO: The day would be busy yet happy; you would be able to achieve a lot in your personal and professional life. At work, your labor of the past few days would be appreciated and rewarded. VIRGO: A hectic social life would keep you on your toes today and lead to some new and interesting associations. A special someone may not have enough time for you. Tarot message: Wait a while, everything will get sorted out on its own. LIBRA: Most of you would be craving for something stimulating and entertaining today. At work, too, you would be open to challenging assignments, which would make you tap into your potential. SCORPIO: Manage personal relationships with diplomacy and thoughtfulness. This would be a day in which you would need to think with your heart, especially as far as a special relationship is concerned. Tarot message: Do not overspend just to impress others. SAGITTARIUS: Singles would receive good proposals and should consider them. At work, you would be open to feedback and some of you would also be planning for promotions. CAPRICORN: If confused about relationships, don’t hesitate to seek help and guidance. Those who are married would bring the spark back into their relationship. Tarot message: You can stabilise your financial situation if you make property investments. Lucky colour: Peach.
Magic number: 64. AQUARIUS: Travelling and communication would be part of the day and so would an interest in religion and spirituality. Some of you may also be philosophically and spiritually inclined. PISCES: Adventure, fun, entertainment would be on the top of your mind today and you may spend a good deal of time, partying and at get-togethers with friends. |
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Rashmi realised as a child only that she had ‘green’ fingers and it was the green vistas that attracted her tremendously. An alumna of Lady Shree Ram College Delhi, she carried over her love for the greens from their Chattarpur farm house to Ludhiana. “Exotic gardens are many, but creating greenery without spending money is what I really enjoy,” she says.
She has even called her venture as a ‘garden in a basket.” Appreciation from nears and dears ones, prompted her to take part in flower competitions and she recently won the first two prizes in the basket category in a competition organised by Gurdwara Sarabha Nagar. “Like children, plants need love and care to flourish and that’s what I do,” she says. She has given an open invite to her friends to give her the baskets that they would have normally thrown away, to create mini-gardens. Rashmi only gifts such creations to her friends and has also initiated a ‘plants exchange’ library wherein they don’t have to visit nurseries to enhance their gardens. Rashmi has recently started supplying her green baskets to florists to widen her sphere of creativity. She also uses every conceivable waste container in the house to grow attractive add-ons to the greenery of her home.
It is a call for all the bling babes, the pink brigade and to all the women who are arduously in love with fashion. All the younglings and not-so-young things who are just too busy being pretty and down with the pink syndrome! The Pink Post-It, a lifestyle and exhibition brand comes to Chandigarh, this Friday. Thrown in the event is everything that attracts women; Western-wear, Indian- wear, Kids-wear, winter essentials (read capes, shawls, stoles), jewellery, footwear, International brands and lots more.
Did we leave anything out? To make things better the participating brands are Furla, Outhouse jewelry, designer Arpita Mehta and designer Parnika Jain with her design label House of Marlyn; the label that blends in rich Indian embroidery and appliqué work. As for the name Marlyn, well, that stems for the sheer admiration for yesteryear fashion icons like Elizabeth Taylor, Audrey Hepburn and of course Maryln Monroe. What’s more? They claim to cater not just for the luxury shopping experiences, but even provide brand consultancy, stylists and everything else in between. That’s a serious call to paint the town pink! Well, as seriously as you can take it. —TNS 
Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh is talk of the town these days. Not because of his antics and quirky dress sense, but because of his look. The 29-year-old actor, who is currently preparing for his upcoming film Bajirao Mastani, is going through a complete transformation to look like a Maratha warrior. He talks about his new look and more.
Actor Shivin Narang, who plays Ranvijay on Veera, recently resumed his gymming. Since he has a hectic schedule, he goes to the gym after his shoot. He says, "Gymming is important. I try to go to the gym regularly now, post shooting hours. Fitness is quite important, especially if you are an actor, as you are expected to look good everywhere."
Producer: Dinesh Vijan, Sunil Lulla and Krishika Lulla
Producer: Rajan Batra and Mayank Patel
You share your birthday with Aarti Chhabria (November 21, 1976, Mumbai), who was crowned Miss India in 2000. She also acted in Akansha and Lajja. Venus and Saturn will play a positive role in her career till 2019 and she will steal the show in the industry.