The Jungle Brook was set up at Corbett in 2004 after a year of hard work and research, on the site selection and construction to the soft issues like branding and the guest experience sought to be offered.
In design and philosophy, it drew inspiration from two things - the little brook that flows at the entrance and the great Camps of Africa. The brook influenced the free flowing use of space and Africa inspired the construct and the experience.
Wanted a resort that offered the best of both worlds – unhindered experience of the wild and the comfort of home, the eco driven property has captured the spirit of both and the imagination of many since.
The Jungle Brook at heart is young and this is something that allows seeking fresh ideas, learning fast, adapting fast and questioning paradigms. This has become the strength and has been well reciprocated by the guests that have hosted at the Camp.
Unique Location
The Jungle Brook is located 254 kilometers North-East of New Delhi, in the immediate vicinity of the Corbett National Park. Located right within the gates of newly conceived Elephant Sanctuary at Village Tera, on Sitabani road, it is accessed by a scenic few minute drive from Ramnagar. It enjoys an unparalleled location – just 04 kilometers from the nearest railhead at Ramnagar and yet being in the heart of Corbett reserve.
The final drive leading up to the Brook is probably the prettiest in Corbett as it takes you past flowing canals, the Kosi river barrage, the wooded Sitabani road, seasonal streams and ending at our very own bubbling Brook at the entrance.
All other places of tourist or special interest are also close to the Brook, Bijrani the prima gate to the park being just six kilometers away.
Jungle Brook is perched on a gentle ridge, flanking a seasonal stream against the backdrop of picturesque hills on one side and dense forest cover on the other. It is invisible among lantana and thick cover until you discover a little winding path that leads you up to the resort.
Accommodation
The property has 17 guest accommodations comprising the signature Meru tents (15 Units) and Zulu cottages (02 Units) spread in around two and half acres so as to ensure the complete privacy and comfort.
The Meru styled Tents, throw back on colonial safari camps, are truly comfortable with en-suite western style tiled bathrooms, log beds and lovely sit-outs. Colourful linen and warm durries make interiors elegant and pleasant. The accommodation is insulated against all weather conditions.
The deluxe thatched Zulu Cottages, inspired by African tribes, has 600 square feet of space with a log fire-place, private courtyard and a personal use machan that make it truly unique in form and function. A large circular room with high thatched roof, tiled flooring and platform beds complement magic of light that filters in from colourful panes and large bay windows.
Guest Facilities
Samsara, the dining area, is the focal point of most activity in the resort and thus the name so. The thatched structure, having theme furniture crafted out logwood, is set in the most beautiful part of the site overlooking both the pebbled riverbed and the hills. Meals are served as buffet, comprising mix of Indian, Continental and Kumaoni cuisines.
The dining area envelope the Lounge within, which is a mosaic tiled circular area having quaint furniture for lounging and has indoor entertainment options like board games and the trusty carom.
The Deck is a machan inspired wooden platform that extends over the pebbled riverbed below. It doubles up as a great vantage point as well as the focal point for the evening bonfire, an essential experience of the spirits and bonhomie by the fireside.
The swaying hammocks the sun kissed lawns further accentuate the experience. Also available are outdoor games like cricket, badminton and volleyball.
Experience
There is enough activity, adventure or exploring around the resort to fill up your day from dawn to late at night, but you may choose to do absolutely nothing and yet be rewarded with the sounds, colours and fresh fragrance of pure nature.
The Corbett Country allows unlimited opportunity for outdoor experience like jeep and elephant safari rides, treks, excursions to nearby places of tourist interest and hills, adventure sports and angling. We take most pride in being able to customize the travel experience of an individual, family or group, which allows them the best use of their stay.
The Corbett Experience
- Jeep Safari: Escorted Jeep Safari is available for visiting Bijrani and Jhirna areas of the Jim Corbett National Park. There are options available for a full day or a half-day safari. The timings for the half -day safari, which essentially is for four hours, are 0600 hours and 1330 hours. The full day safari is from 0600 hours till evening. As only limited number of jeeps are allowed into the park on a given day, its advisable to get the safari pre-booked. We shall require name, age and gender of all the travelers, and a photo-id number of any one of the guests per jeep for getting the entry permit. Six people can be easily accommodated in a jeep along with the driver and the trained guide.
- Elephant Safari: Elephant Safari can be arranged in the Bijrani area of the national park. The safari is for around two hours and the timings can be made suitable to your convenience. Four adults along with the ‘Mahawat’ can be accommodated on an elephant.
- Night Safari: A jungle Brook exclusive is a 15-minute night drive to the ‘chaurs’, where under the canopy of stars you can witness the nightlife among the grasslands, the grazing grounds of the herbivores. Catch the glowing eyes of denizens of the dark, marvel at the prancing herds, the stray deer that may cross your path and the snorting wild boar. Enjoy the hot cup of coffee off your flask, as mysteries of the jungle open up, sit quiet and lose yourself to the sounds of night. You may choose to take your own vehicle, if you desire so and we shall provide you with an escort.
- Sitabani Safari: At half an hour drive, is the place traditionally associated with Ramayana, as it is believed that Sita was exiled here. The virgin and the thick forest offer incredible wildlife sightings and is a bird watchers’ paradise. There is also an ashram tucked away in the jungle.
- Wildlife Trails: The area around the resort is the nature lover’s ultimate reward – wild and dense, the forest starts right from the outside. The natural and the man-made trails will take you as deep inside as you may dare to go. We would be happy to provide you with an escort.
- Excursions and Day Outs
- Corbett Museum and Fall: Corbett’s home at Kaladungi, around 32 Kms on Nainital Road is now a museum that houses memorabilia of the legendry Jim Corbett. En-route is Corbett Fall, which is an ideal place for day picnics.
- Garjia Temple and Dhangadi Museum: Around 12 Kms is a huge rock perching out of Kosi riverbed and on the pinnacle is the beautiful temple of Durga Devi named as Garjia Devi, having an enchanting view of river Kosi from the top. Nearby is another museum called Dhangadi museum.
- Lake District of Nainital: Nainital is just an hour and a half away and can be looked as a day trip. Boating options are available in Naini Lake and you also have an option of visiting nearby lakes of Sattal, Bhimtal and Naukuchiatal
- Picnic by the River Kosi: Amble across to the river Kosi. Choose to have an escort and a packed picnic lunch to have by the riverside, or anywhere in the Corbett country.
Angling (Fishing)
Fishing trips on the stretches of Ramganga River, around 40 kilometers from the camp, can be organized under the supervision of trained fishing guides. The camp also facilitates the necessary fishing permit and equipment. Also offered is fun-fishing at Kosi
Outbound Programs
Jungle Brook organizes experiential and motivational outdoor programs for corporate and student groups. The program is structured so as to enmesh fun, adventure, and excursions with inspirational, interactive, and experiential games that focus on key areas of personal development.
Each program is dynamic and unique.
Travel Logistics
Located just 250 kilometers north-east of New Delhi, the Jungle Brook is easily accessible by Road and Rail. A comfortable overnight train journey or an interesting 5-6 hour drive from Delhi are travel options to the resort.
Nearest railhead Ramnagar is just 04 kilometers from the Brook. Ranikhet Express departing from Old Delhi Railway Station at 2240 Hours is the most convenient train that reaches Ramnagar at 0500 Hours. For the return journey, the Jim Corbett Link Express (as Ranikhet Express is known during its return journey) leaves Ramnagar at 2140 Hours to reach Delhi at 0410 Hours.
If you wish to travel by road, take National Highway 24 from Delhi to reach Moradabad via Hapur and Gajraula. Choose to take the toll road just before Moradabad and a left turn at the end of this toll road will take you to Thakurdwara, Kashipur, onto Ramnagar.
Once at Ramnagar, ask for right turn to Kosi Barrage. Cross river Kosi and take immediate left on Sitabani Road going up to Village Tera. Around one and a half kilometer on the Sitabani Road is a temple on the left and a right turn around 100 meters from this temple leads you to Jungle Brook.
Monday, November 23, 2009
The Great Escape concludes successfully in Chandigarh
More than 80 SUVs participate in special autumn edition of one of India’s most iconic off-roading adventures
Prepare yourself for the experience of a lifetime.... There is nothing quite like the thrill of rally driving. From the very first time you sit behind the wheel, rev up the engine and begin to kick up dust in a specially modified car just like the champs drive, you’ll be hooked. In no time flat you’ll be executing maneuvers you never thought yourself capable of. You’ll quickly gain the confidence you need to throw yourself into the experience and have the adventure of a lifetime. Chances are, if this is your first time it will not be your last since the sport of rally driving can be addictive.
The 54th edition of the Mahindra Great Escape, one of India’s most loved off-roading adventures, successfully witnessed a total of 82 vehicles taking on the challenging route with aplomb here, last weekend. The SUVs such as the Scorpio, the Bolero and the Getaway as well as the evergreen Legend, Major and Classic negotiated a distance of 44 km of daunting terrain which included riverbeds, rocky and sandy terrain.
“We are delighted to return to Chandigarh, one of our favourite venues for the Mahindra Great Escape, for the third time. The scenic yet demanding route was an off roader’s delight and really gave Mahindra customers an idea of the tough and rugged nature of Mahindra SUVs. We hope to return to Chandigarh soon,” said Vivek Nayer, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Automotive Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.
The Great Escape was flagged off at 9:30 am by Mr Yashpal Singhal, Additional Director General of Police (ADGP), Haryana from Hotel North Park, Panchkula. The rally culminated at the same place later in the afternoon. The rally was conducted in association with Shell Lubricants, JK Tyres, Bosch, and Hi Speed Diesel from BPCL. The ‘With You Hamesha’ service team also ensured that participants did not get stuck midway and could enjoy the rally unhindered.
First initiated in 1996, the Great Escape is a non-competitive, off-road rally which is meant to encourage the strength of vehicles on terrain other than tarmac, which are known for their rugged and reliable nature, and can typically be driven over the roughest of the surfaces. The Great Escape serves as a platform to highlight this incredible ability and experience the thrills of 4x4 adventures.
The perfect getaway saw notable personalities from the motor sports fraternity chipping in to motivate the participants and to winch their vehicles out of the sand and slush!
The Great Escape was also held at Hyderabad, Munnar in Kerala, Coorg in Karnataka, Goa and also at Shahpur near Mumbai.
Friday, October 16, 2009
"Indians are opening up to new genres of music", SIVAMANI
For any musician who aspires to be like them, the competition comes not from fellow musicians or even from Shankar Mahadevan , rather from Bollywood explains world-renowned musicians, jazz artist Louis Banks and ace percussionist Sivamani .In town for the opening of Yamaha Music Square in Sector 37, Chandigarh on October 7, 2009, the scions of Indian contemporary and fusion music take turns to talk about the grand Grammy nomination and define their art form.
While, Louis Banks starts playing a piano and Sivamani takes his position at the drums, and guess what they both have in mind -- An honest confession to make, "It’s unfortunate that while the world rejoices our music, people in India continue to plug into Bollywood." Louis has the reason, "Because, Bollywood music is easy to understand. You needn’t have to be attentive to appreciate it as it conditions you. On the other hand, our music requires some hard work from the audience as well to comprehend it." Sivamani is not all that dejected, "Indians are opening up to new genres of music. They are looking out for more options."
“Except the time when it was displaced by disco, jazz has been around for years and years, and now, it’s making a comeback,” tells Banks, who is now experimenting with the music along with his son. “The focus is integrating Indian with western music,” Banks also points to a six-album release soon. After giving award-winning music to TV serials, ad campaigns, films etc, Banks is now shifting full-time to live concerts. “The fun lies in playing live,” he smiles. Thirty years down the music line, and Damba Bahadur Budhapriti aka Louiz Banks has come a long way, from being a class teacher and jazz player in Kolkata to landing in Mumbai with Rs 300, tuning to guru RD Burman, and making it big. “Those were tough times, but good times too. We played for love, for passion of music. Today, there are a number of instruments and opportunities like reality shows, but one thing everyone should remember - if you are in it for money, then forget music,” says Banks, who, by the way, also does impressionistic paintings!
"The impact of Indian classical music is everlasting, you just can’t get over it. Whatever music we invent, it descends to the Indian music," asserts Louis before Sivamani chips in, "One needs to master Indian music before experimenting and diversifying it."
Of course, they took formal training, but their interest in music made all the difference, "I took my first lessons in music at the funerals, when I played soft music on different instruments," shares Sivamani. Gradually various milestones were achieved. "The major one came 25 years back, forming a band together, Shanti, and giving first international performance in Russia."
Helping in their cause of making universal music, they believe, are easily available quality instruments and reality shows. Louis explains the rest, "When we began to learn music, instruments had to be imported, unlike the present scenario. The musicians are being discovered by reality shows, who otherwise wouldn’t have got an opportunity."
For Banks, there is immense talent in India. “And the recent exposure has suddenly made the West sit up and take notice of Indian music,” says Banks adding it’s never too late to learn music provided you have the passion and aptitude. But he adds, it’s always better to start early!
Just like Sivamani, who started playing music as a child at funerals. And now,when it comes to musical beats, no one drums it better than Sivamani. From kanjira, damru, Indian conch, ghungroo to an odd suitcase, plastic water bottle, the man has created music out of it all. And when he’s not playing he’s practising on pillows!
“Those were my first lessons in music,” says the percussionist par excellence who has been playing with Banks and their band, Asia Electrik for 25 years now! Looking forward to his world tour, Jai H, with AR Rahman, and two new albums Mahaleela and Anand, Sivamani says music for him is rhythm.
“It’s peace, it’s the best diversion to depression...rhythm is like a banyan tree, it’s one, just like sound, it’s everywhere,” he hails its therapeutic powers. They're asked why is their music western only. There's a simple answer to it. "Because we come from western background," says Sivamani, who had his first brush with percussion while returning home from school in Chennai as the instrument would be played at funerals. However, there music's not devoid of the influence of Indian classical. It constantly makes way into their music in sound, in ragas. "I wondered which western counterpart would fit in with ragas and discovered it was jazz as that offers so much freedom. Jazz can be improvised upon and so can be classical," says Banks. Also Hindustani, he says, builds a great foundation.
And then, you open out, let your imagination flow.
'Playing Laxmi Bai & Benazir will be tough'
This bong beauty captured millions and zillions of heart when she won the title of Miss Universe in 1994 and made the country proud. Post the title she was bombarded with offers to make it big in the B-town. Her first Bollywood flick was ‘Dastak’ and then she was here to carve her success. More than her killer looks, her husky voice, her acting skills; her affair and link-ups have grabbed news now and then. She has been away from the spotlight but never mind because she is back with looking more ravishing in her much-talked about ‘Do Knot Disturb’ (DKD). The film also stars king of comedy Govinda, Ritesh Deshmukh and Lara Dutta in the lead. In an interview, Sushmita spoke about her comeback, her sweet and sour rapport with Govinda, her equation with Lara and her upcoming films. Following is the tête-à-tête:
It’s been long that Sushmita have been away from the lime-light. We ask her what kept her away. “Yes, that’s true. But now audience will see one after other releases of mine. “Do Knot Disturb” tops the list. It is directed by David Dhawan and produced by Vashu Bhagnani. It has huge star-cast including Govinda, Lara and Ritesh in the lead besides Sohail Khan, Ranvir Shorey are also there”.
You have worked with Govinda in the past, how was it to work with him again?
-He is a great actor to work with. When you have Chi Chi along with you the output is always good.
If the rumours are to be believes, things are not well between Sushmita and Govinda. How far is it true? “If that is was true then why we both would have agreed to do the film”. And When asked if she is not in good terms with Lara too, she says, “Oh really? I never knew this. It is so easy for you to make and break friendship, isn’t it? The equation between both of us is absolutely fine and rocking”.
At present Sushmita is a busy bee working for her forthcoming film, starting from ‘Do knot disturb’, ‘No problem’ with Kangana Ranuat, ‘Dulha Mil Gaya’ under Maverick productions with Fardeen Khan and Shahrukh Khan.
About her dream project ‘Rani Lakshmibai’, which is at hold, the former Miss universe elaborates, “Yes, it is on hold. Though, I can’t comment on that but surely it will start soon”.
About the progress of this much-awaited film, Benazir Bhutto’ which created lots of buzz when it was announced, she explains, “-Benazir Butto is iconic figure. She lived a very controversial life. On the initial stages we need permission from Pakistan Peoples’ Party. We are ready with all the requirements. I am only going to play Ms Benazir. I am much thrilled as well as nervous. Most of its shoot will take place in Dubai, U.N and Britian. We all are optimistic about it”.
Chi-Chis Dolly--LARA DUTTA
The Miss Universe- Lara Dutta stepped into various genres of movies but off late her trademark movies are mainstream comedy. She started her career with films like Andaaz, Mumbai Se Aaya Mera Dost, Bhaagam Bhaag, No Entry and went on doing Partner, Billu Barber and many more.
The dazzling Lara Dutta is back again in yet another comedy flick “Do Knot Disturb” directed by Vashu Bhagnani starring Govinda. We interviewed Lara to know more about her new film “Do Knot Disturb” and her experience–
“Do Knot Disturb” is about post martial affair, in which Lara gets involve with a married man. “ I am playing Dolly in the movie who is in love with a married man and to hide the post marital love affair, a lot of situations arises which turn out to be a complete drama with humour. The film has been directed by David Dhawan and Producer is Vashu Bhagnani. Along with Govinda, the other co- stars in the movie are Sushmita Sen and Ritesh Deshmukh.
When asked if Lara is the same Govinda’s Dolly who has become so popular with the audience, she says, “Yes, I am his Dolly and who has become famous just because the way Chi-Chi calls me”.
Every movie is a new experience for Lara and working with another Miss Universe Sushmita Sen in the movie, Lara is quite to answer, “ It was good but we hardly had a few scenes together but all together it was a dream come true by working with her”.
When asked if the two former Miss Universe had a few clashes between, while working in the same movies, she opines, “Is it necessary that if two actresses are working together, they are bound to have a cat fight? The shoot was a really good experience and nothing at all happened between us. Moreover, besides co-stars, we are friends”,
“Govinda is a super star and working with him in “Do Knot Disturb” was indeed a fantastic experience after doing movies like Bhaagam Bhaag and Partner. But with this, I now have more opportunity to perform with him and this doesn’t end here, I’ve worked with Govinda again in Ravi Chopra’s “Banda ye Bindaas hai” which will be released soon”, adds Lara.
“When you have Govinda and David Dhawan together, the comedy automatically comes out. So I tried hard to come up to their level”, says Lara, who joins the comely team of David Dhawan.
About reason behind you taking up comedy flicks, she says, “ Well, it’s mostly because I am getting more of these types of movies. Also working in a comedy movie is a lot of fun and I really enjoy my work. I believe that it’s more difficult to work for a comedy film than playing a serious character. I really relish working with directors like David Dhawan, Priyadarshan and Sajid Khan”.
Talking about working with Sanjay Dutt for the first time in the film “Blue”, Lara says, “ The movie “Blue” is a completely different one where I’ve had a few action scenes too. Sanjay Dutt is a great actor and I liked working with him as well”,
“We’ve shot the movie underwater, I think the audience will like the film”, she sums…
Hum Mile, a love story with a backdrop of infamous Mumbai floods
Roadies makes a ‘man’ out of you, feels the Bollywood star Imran Hashmi, much popularly known as the “serial kisser”.
In town, Hashmi played the perfect guest judge for MTV Hero Honda Roadies 7 auditions. A much different Hashmi from what we saw him here last time, some two years back -- promoting Awaarapan, as the actor answers to some of the queries on the reports of discrimination he faced when trying to buy a flat in Mumbai.
Some sections of the media, he says, blew his comments out of proportion. "The entire issue escalated into a different direction. The issue was trivialised. Other people were being asked for their comments," he shoots, adding that he wasn't talking of a trend. "I was talking about my experience," he says.
However, some good came out of the issue. "The minority commission wanted to resolve it peacefully. Report says there was evidence (of bias). Positive results came about and they hoped to pass an equal opportunity bill. And I am not just speaking on behalf of Muslims. It's for anybody who has been denied a flat because of his caste or religion, be it a Hindu or a Parsi."
Coming to the core issue, the auditions of the show, Emraan says, "I have watched a bit of Roadies and I know this show has grabbed the nation's attention. I don't know what to expect, but this season there'll be a tinge of humour in the show and I would be playing the guest judge."
Hashmi is still fresh in people's memories with Raaz The Mystery Continues. And he's ready with Tum Mile, a film based on the Mumbai floods, which releases in November. "The floods are a sub-plot of the film. It's a story of two star-crossed ex-lovers, who are re-united after a hiatus of six years under the most chaotic circumstances. As the story unfolds, they find out new things about each other and themselves due to the extreme conditions therein. There's a very beautiful love story in there," he promises.
An integral part of the Vishesh films, we heard Hashmi will be playing a role for Mohit Suri's movie on Australian racial attacks on Indian students. Says Hashmi, "Yes, I will be playing a part in the movie, but it is still being scripted and most probabably, we would start shooting in December." Ask him about his role and he says, "There's nothing defined as yet, but yes, this movie is based on real-life characters, but won't be a judgemental movie. We would be showing the real picture."
While he’s flexing muscles for another flick, Once Upon a Time in Mumbai based on the underworld, Hashmi denies reports of him doing the remake of Gary Cooper’s ‘Love in the Afternoon’. Hashmi is touted to play Dawood Ibrahim.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
KOLKATTA FASHION WEEK – SEASON II
The Indian designers are no longer confined to the domestic fashion and apparel market. With India is becoming the latest fashion hub for the fashionistas, the DESINGERS are gaining recognition and fame from all over the world.One of the major platforms that provide the Indian designers to showcase their talents is through the fashion shows. Kolkatta Fashion Week is one of the most popular fashion show celebration of India where the talents of already established and upcoming designers are showcased.
TRICITY CALLING took a tour to the Kolkata Fashion Week – Season II or KFW 2009, which began with the ace designer Ritu Kumar’s who paid a tribute to rich Bengali traditional designs and craftsmanship, while got concluded with the grand finalé of Manish Malhotra’s show.
This feast featured:
Ritu Kumar, Bibi Russel, Manish Malhotra, Wendell Rodricks, Rocky S, Narendra Kumar, Mandira Virk and many more. The five day fashion extravaganza was held from September 9 to September 13 at the ITC, The Sonar, Kolkata.
Star cricketer Virender Sehwag, sarod maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Director Rituparno Ghosh and film actresses Riya Sen, Nitin Mukesh and Irrfaan Khan was among the few showstoppers, who were a part of the event.
This event was a fashion celebration laced with lots of glamour and national as well as international media coverage, wherein many high profile designers as well as famous Bollywood celebrities were part of it.
Actor Neetu Chandra, who was walked the ramp for designer Soumitra Mondal, said, “I’ve been busy shooting for the Tamil version of Bachna Ae Haseeno. But when I got an offer to walk for KFW2, I immediately agreed since I’m in love with Kolkata’s vintage appeal and the city’s connect with all things arty. Though being a showstopper is a nerve-wracking act”, added the all excited Neetu. For Neil Nitin Mukesh, it’s both a love for Kolkata and Nari’s sensibilities that’s making him walk the ramp. “I love Nari as a human being. This translates into his work too,” he said. Meanwhile, walking for Mandira Wirk was Sophie Choudry’s way of strengthening her ties with Kolkata, a city where she had spent her holidays.
Collection by Some of the Designers:
Anita Dongre 
Showstopper - Rimii Sen
With her love for Luxury and Lifestyle, Anita launched her one of a kind couture line, ANITA DONGRE TIMELESS. The label catered to custom made occasion wear. Be it a bridal trousseau or a red carpet stunner, ANITA DONGRE TIMELESS is termed as a luxury outfit you’ll desire to own and have forever.
The collection made ingenious use of traditional weaves and silks all over the country to create styles that are classis, feminine and eternal. Each ensemble, delicately handcrafted by adept craftsmen, is precious, luxurious and opulent enough to be considered as rare pieces for heirloom.
Aarti Vijaygupta
Her work was all about ‘breaking the compromise’. Merging old with the modern, creativity with practically. The box pleats, pyramid cones, quilted yokes yet feminine to the contours- classy, wearable and realistic yet affordable, this summed up her USP.
Collection
The Spring Summer 10 collection alternated the signature austerity of the label with more creative inputs. Her collection into the fold ’, inspired by Japanese art of Origami she felt is self explanatory of her collection. Her main objective was to fuse the traditional with the more topical. She tried to do so by blending of linen fabric in earthy colours with sophisticated cuts, which she believed, certainly will enchant the modern feminine world.
The color palette evoked metropolitan shades of grey, offset against purple softened by the matte of linen, broken by beige, brown and sand tones, and greens have a dry, olivey patina.
Aditi Jaggi
The designer Aditi Jaggi Rastogi is an alumnus of S.O.F.T, Pune, and has won the sobriquet of the ‘most commercially viable designer. A thorough experience under designer Rina Dhaka, a stint @ SSL, and designing for Mallika Sherawat etc. are the laurels that prove the strong foundation of the label.
Collection
This collection was an attempt to add to the grace n persona of a bride who considers comfort and value for money as her priorities, yet she wanted to indulge in a bright colorful collection for her trousseau, picking a mix of ensembles for all occasions. There was ample use of brocade from grandmas’ closet in the form of appliqué delicately highlighted with tiny beads and colorful stones. There were lehengas, saris, anarkalis, churidars and also a wide range of tunics. In short there was a mix of all that a newlywed bride wants in her wardrobe. Being spring summer 2010, the fabrics used were very easy chiffons and cotton blend silks.
Narendra Kumar
Showstopper: Neil Nitin Mukesh
Narendra Kumar was part of the first ever graduating class from NIFT in 199
0, when it was still being run in conjunction with FIT, New York and Trent Polytechnic, UK. The NK line for both men and women is based on modern cuts and silhouettes but integrates the luxurious aspects of specially woven Indian fabrics and hand-crafted detailing to maintain a couture feel to the line.
Abhishek Dutta
Showstopper: Irrfaan Khan
Winner of Smirnoff International Fashion Award and an award winning student of Wigan & Leign College, Abhishek Dutta believes in creating garments with a difference. He specializes in various ancient embroideries with futurists cuts. His label AD Normal gives immense choice to people for casual clothing whilst his other label Abhishek D creates exclusive couture ensembles. Apart from formal wear his casual wear comprises of tops, trousers, jackets, skirts, etc. at a very affordable price. The inspiration for AD Normal line of clothes comes from the very sporty attitude of youth.
Collection
A futuristic collection was rolled out on the ramp from the Abhishek Dutta stable. Cuts and not surface embellishment dominated the ‘creative patterns’. Off-white, orange and khaki were his chosen colours for this structured western collection.
Swati Srivastava
The ‘Swati Srivastava’ label, incepted in the year 2007, has already been making weaves in the industry. A swirling mix of urban contemporary influences in heady creative style, ‘Swati Srivastava’ is a tour de force in Indian fashion. ‘Swati Srivastava’ the label is available at locations across India at stores in New Delhi, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Chennai.
Collection
The Delhi-based designer was showcasing an Indo-western line. The collection included lehengas, saris, draped tops, tunics and short jackets brought alive by textures, bamboo work, terracotta and cane work on net, khadi silk and Dhakai silk.
Manish Malhotra
Actors Amrita Rao, Ronit Roy, Raima Sen, Riya Sen, director 
Rituparno Ghosh and footballer Bhaichung Bhutia was among the celebrities who walked the ramp at the finale of Kolkata Fashion Week-II, when Manish Malhotra showcased his collection.Amrita Rao did the show stopping catwalk draped in a red lehenga. Ronit walked the ramp in a grey and black striped sherwani that had embroidery work. Bhaichung was seen in a grey sherwani.
“My label is known as couture clothing. I think my clothes are wearable. For example, I feel the sherwani is a lot more textured than most embroideries. For women it has a lot of net. It’s more clothes than jewellery,” said Manish.
This was his first show in the city, where he exhibited bridal clothes.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Modelling is my first love: Mugdha
Ramp has never and will not ever take a backseat for the model turned actress Mugdha Godse whose would like to get back to her first love modelling as and when she finds time out from films.
Mugdha Godse , who played a model in her debut film Fashion, has gone "completely de-glam" for her role in
Madhur Bhandarkar's forthcoming Jail. The actress was in City for the launch of PC Jeweller showroom in Sector 22.
"My look in Jail is very de-glamourised. On the first-day of the shoot, I came for my shot with make-up on, and Madhur asked me to wash my face and get the make-up off. He wanted a completely natural look and I finally ended up with only kajal and mascara," said Mugdha. Though different, but, for Mugdha both roles gave her the courage and confidence to experiment with different character.
Madhur Bhandarker’s Fashion had a bold subject. Jail is even bolder. “If Fashion threw light on the dark world of fashion, Jail will explore the dingy prisons,” she said.
For the 24 year old actress performance is above the looks. “Looks does matter, but to an extent. What in fact, the audience remembers for a longer time is the performance. And as the Indian Cinema is experimenting, evolving, innovating, getting bolder, we need to try and give something different”, asserted Mugdha.
"Madhur always gives equal if not more importance to his female characters and I am happy that he trusted me to play two diametrically different roles (in both Fashion and Jail). My role in Jail is very powerful role and I am sure the audience will be surprised to see me in this new avatar. I play Parag's (played by Neil Nitin Mukesh) girlfriend and I am his strength through most of the film," she said.
The actress, who starred alongside Priyanka Chopra and Kangana Ranaut in Bhandarkar's Fashion, is playing the lead in Jail opposite Neil Nitin Mukesh.
Co-produced by Percept Picture Company and Bhandarkar Entertainment, Jail is a hard-hitting yet sensitive tale of an ordinary man, Parag Dixit, who finds himself inside a prison due to a series of unfortunate events.
Releasing on November 6, it also stars Manoj Bajpai in a pivotal role. Mugdha, who teamed up with Bhandarkar for the second time, is all praise for the director.
Apart from Jail, Mugdha is also keeping busy with her other movie All The Best, releasing on October 16 starring Ajay Devgan, Arshad Warsi, Sanjay Dutt and Bipasha Basu. About breaking into comedy early on in her career, she said "When I got the opportunity to work in All The Best I just couldn't resist the temptation to do an out-an-out comedy. Every actor likes to try different things and after doing Fashion, I just felt the need to broaden my horizon and she had a lot of fun while shooting the comedy”.
"We used to laugh a lot on and off the sets and there was great camaraderie between all of us. I hope all my films are this fun and the relationship we shared during the making of the film, we can maintain it later. I would be happy to work with all of them again," Mugdha said.
Next will be a horror film with Bobby Deol. Seems the lady is all ready for different genres.
Mugdha Godse , who played a model in her debut film Fashion, has gone "completely de-glam" for her role in
Madhur Bhandarkar's forthcoming Jail. The actress was in City for the launch of PC Jeweller showroom in Sector 22."My look in Jail is very de-glamourised. On the first-day of the shoot, I came for my shot with make-up on, and Madhur asked me to wash my face and get the make-up off. He wanted a completely natural look and I finally ended up with only kajal and mascara," said Mugdha. Though different, but, for Mugdha both roles gave her the courage and confidence to experiment with different character.
Madhur Bhandarker’s Fashion had a bold subject. Jail is even bolder. “If Fashion threw light on the dark world of fashion, Jail will explore the dingy prisons,” she said.
For the 24 year old actress performance is above the looks. “Looks does matter, but to an extent. What in fact, the audience remembers for a longer time is the performance. And as the Indian Cinema is experimenting, evolving, innovating, getting bolder, we need to try and give something different”, asserted Mugdha.
"Madhur always gives equal if not more importance to his female characters and I am happy that he trusted me to play two diametrically different roles (in both Fashion and Jail). My role in Jail is very powerful role and I am sure the audience will be surprised to see me in this new avatar. I play Parag's (played by Neil Nitin Mukesh) girlfriend and I am his strength through most of the film," she said.
The actress, who starred alongside Priyanka Chopra and Kangana Ranaut in Bhandarkar's Fashion, is playing the lead in Jail opposite Neil Nitin Mukesh.
Co-produced by Percept Picture Company and Bhandarkar Entertainment, Jail is a hard-hitting yet sensitive tale of an ordinary man, Parag Dixit, who finds himself inside a prison due to a series of unfortunate events.
Releasing on November 6, it also stars Manoj Bajpai in a pivotal role. Mugdha, who teamed up with Bhandarkar for the second time, is all praise for the director.
Apart from Jail, Mugdha is also keeping busy with her other movie All The Best, releasing on October 16 starring Ajay Devgan, Arshad Warsi, Sanjay Dutt and Bipasha Basu. About breaking into comedy early on in her career, she said "When I got the opportunity to work in All The Best I just couldn't resist the temptation to do an out-an-out comedy. Every actor likes to try different things and after doing Fashion, I just felt the need to broaden my horizon and she had a lot of fun while shooting the comedy”.
"We used to laugh a lot on and off the sets and there was great camaraderie between all of us. I hope all my films are this fun and the relationship we shared during the making of the film, we can maintain it later. I would be happy to work with all of them again," Mugdha said.
Next will be a horror film with Bobby Deol. Seems the lady is all ready for different genres.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Paint Ball-A BATTLE FIELD
A Loaded gun and a licence to ‘kill’…..... Confused??? So we were…’n’ in case you think that Chandigarh never had a taste of real action, think again…You are wrong…
For youngsters who think going uphill or hangout is a better option, one of the most happening sports, which not many may know is becoming the most favourite venue for the people residing in the tricity.
The owners of Xtreme Warzone originally got the idea of PAINTBALL FROM CANADA where they played this sports game frequently. Gary Sandhu and Paul Sandhu, the two brothers enjoyed playing this game so much that they decided to open up their own business in a place where paintball did not exist yet. 
After some research they found out that paintball was in India, but no one had bought it to their home town Punjab, which was launched in Mullanpur in March 2009.
Initially we thought that people might not like the sport as it involves a lot of physical activities, but we were amaze to see family enjoying the game here to the fullest.
“We thought that the game is not meant for the people here or it will be hard for people to follow, but we were wrong. We have family, girls coming to us. Even the security wing of the Punjab Chief Minister came to play the game”, claimed Gary Sandhu.
WHAT IS PAINTBALL?
Paintball is a sports game where opponents use guns loaded with harmless paint and play a variety of games. Two teams play against each other and shoot paint from guns The paint shoots at a very high pressure at about 250-300 feet per second.Once the player gets hit by a paintball he/she is out of the game. Paintballs are small balls filled with washable paint. The guns are powered with CO2 12oz and 20oz tanks are offered with the guns
WHO CAN PLAY?
Paintball is played by men, women, boys and girls of all different age groupsChildren must be 12 years of age or over to play.
Children between ages 12-18 will need parent’s consignment to play.
Extra supervision will be provided on the field for children under the age of 18.
IS PAINTBALL SAFE?
Paintball like any other sports is safe when proper protective gear and safety rules are followed.
ARE THERE ANY INTERNATIONAL RULES?
To play paintball you can create your own game and your own rules, but there is one mandatory safety rule that all players must follow and that is to wear an approved face mask, this is for your own protection when playing on the field. The mask will be provided on site.
The Weapons
X7 MARKER
The X7 is the world’s most customizable marker ever made. This next generation woodsball marker features over 30 mods, a thousand looks and built in features including a lightweight magnesium receiver, a new Cyclone EP Feed System, a low profile offset hopper and many other upgrades for unmatched style and performance.
A-5 MARKER
With its genuine military appearance and reliable performance, the A-5 line is all about speed and upgradeability. The A-5 features the patented Cyclone Feed System that can feed up to 17 balls per second and can be easily field stripped in less than 60 seconds. The A-5 continues to set the standard for scenario players wanting superior reliability and customization.
98 CUSTOM - PLATINUM SERIES MARKER
For the beginner or seasoned pro, the New 98 Custom Platinum Series Marker line maintains the reliability and durability you need and with the new split receiver design it is even easer to customize, maintain, and upgrade.
In pipeline:
“We are introducing Paint Ball very soon in Jallandhar and Ludhiana”, asserted Gary.
Heer Ranjha rools back
If the Khans holds the bollywood , it is the Manns who rule the Punjabi industry. After Punjabi icon Gurdas Mann, it is now Harbhajan Mann associated with Heer Ranjha.Eros International, a leading Indian film entertainment studio with a global distribution network in association with Aplomb Motion Pictures and H&H Productions released the music album of their forthcoming romantic saga HEER RANJHA at a glittering event at Fame Cinemas.
The Punjabi heartthrob and singing sensation - movie actor Harbhajan Mann (Ranjha), the lovely Neeru Bajwa (Heer) along with Guggu Gill, Jasbir Jassi, Mickey Duhra, Gurchet Chitrakar, Shawinder Mahal were among the crew members present at the launch.
Also present were the producers of Heer Ranjha – Gulzar Inder Chahal and Apinder Grewal, director Harjit Singh, lyricist Babu Singh Mann and music director Gurmeet Singh.
Amidst all the star presence and energy at Fame Cinemas in Panchkula, the afternoon saw the formal launch of the scintillating music of Heer Ranjha along with the showcase of the film’s songs and trailer.
Scheduled to release worldwide on 2nd October 2009, the breathtakingly shot eternal love story of the star crossed lovers is played beautifully by the hit pair of Harbhajan Mann and Neeru Bajwa who once again team up after Dil Apna Punjabi. The much awaited soul stirring historical romance strives to recreate the legendry love story with utmost sincerity and historical accuracy and promises to take loyal audiences and fans by storm.
Speaking at the occasion, Harbhajan Mann, the all round entertainer of Punjabi cinema said, “I am looking forward to the release of Heer Ranjha and eagerly await the response of my fans and audience to the music that is available across music stores from today. The music of the film has been bound together through strong melodies to suit the feel and look of the film. Every song beautifully portrays the theme of the film and we are extremely proud of the effort”.
“I am happy to associate with Eros International in our first venture together and hope through this association, we can open new avenues for Punjabi cinema and take it to another level. We are very proud to announce that Heer Ranjha will also release in countries like Hong Kong, New Zealand, Dubai, Pakistan etc which will see the release of a Punjabi film for the very first time. We have made this film with a lot of love and sincerely hope audiences enjoy our labour of love”, he added.
The sound track of the Heer Ranjha has been composed by Gurmeet Singh and features an array of eclectic singers like Pakistani legendary singer Janaab Shaukat Ali, Harbhajan Mann, Jasbir Jassi, Gursewak Mann, Minu Sharma, Sujata, Kalpana, Sunidhi Chauhan, Shweta Pandit and Akriti Kakkar.
Heer Ranjha has been produced by Harbhajan Mann, Apinder Grewal and Gulzar Inder Chahal.
I play character of Chaturvedi police officer in Baabarr : Om Puri
Om Puri is always known to depict sheer emotions and acting skills in each and every film he did. And indeed he got recognisation and admiration through prestigious awards like 2 National awards, Filmfare Award, Life-time achievement award, Padmashri award, got nominated in Bafta awards.
And yet again he is all set to grab the lime-light from his role in his recent release action-packed film “Baabarr”. “Baabarr” has hit the theatre on September 11, 2009. He is playing the character of a police-officer. Believe it or not, this is his 30th time wherein he had played a police-officer in the film.
Recently, in an interaction with the Buzzintown, he discussed about his film “Baabarr”, his role and many more things.
From “Ardhsatya” you have played the character of police-officer several times. How does it feel?
There was no reason to choice specifically this. God knows how many more times I’ll play police-officer. The journey of being police-officer from film “Ardhasatya” till “Baabarr” has been great and much more beyond learning and witnessing hard-core reality. I have played both positive as well as negative shades of police-officer. In “Ardhsatya” I was honest, committed and dedicated police-officer. Whereas in “Baabarr” I am corrupted police-officer. I help culprits and go ahead with planning-plotting against its own system. I thoroughly enjoyed playing police-officer Chaturvedi. In reality such officers do exist in our system.
What is the story of the film? It is kind of creating anxiety.
This is the story of a boy who started from the streets of Aman Ganj and had trespassed every barrier of crime. For the 10 years that followed he traumatized one and all. His reign of fear terrorized everyone in the state, right from the common man to the Government. This was … BAABARR.
Even the movie stars Mithun Da. How was it to work with him?
It was immense pleasure to work with him. Everyone knows what kind of actor he is. I always earned pleasure to work with stars like Amitabh Bachchan in film “Dev” and Naseeruddin Shah in film “Maqbool”.
You are known to get into the debt of the role you play. Did any role had major impact on you and affected your personal life?
Yes, “Ardhsatya” role really influenced me. Talking about other roles, until I am on sets, the character is the only thing which revolves in my mind and blood. Once I am off sets I am simply Om Puri.
How was the experience to work with Director Ashuu Tirkha?
He picked up a good subject. It is not easy to shoot on real location from where the film is based on. I am sure, audience will appreciate the work done by Ashuu.
Which are your up-coming films?
“Wanted”, “London Dreams”, “Qurbaan” and “Road to Sangam”.
You have received tons of prestigious awards including Padmshree, Life time achievement and National award. What next?
Many more are left. Let me earn them then we will talk about it, he sums with a smile on his face.
And yet again he is all set to grab the lime-light from his role in his recent release action-packed film “Baabarr”. “Baabarr” has hit the theatre on September 11, 2009. He is playing the character of a police-officer. Believe it or not, this is his 30th time wherein he had played a police-officer in the film.
Recently, in an interaction with the Buzzintown, he discussed about his film “Baabarr”, his role and many more things.
From “Ardhsatya” you have played the character of police-officer several times. How does it feel?
There was no reason to choice specifically this. God knows how many more times I’ll play police-officer. The journey of being police-officer from film “Ardhasatya” till “Baabarr” has been great and much more beyond learning and witnessing hard-core reality. I have played both positive as well as negative shades of police-officer. In “Ardhsatya” I was honest, committed and dedicated police-officer. Whereas in “Baabarr” I am corrupted police-officer. I help culprits and go ahead with planning-plotting against its own system. I thoroughly enjoyed playing police-officer Chaturvedi. In reality such officers do exist in our system.
What is the story of the film? It is kind of creating anxiety.
This is the story of a boy who started from the streets of Aman Ganj and had trespassed every barrier of crime. For the 10 years that followed he traumatized one and all. His reign of fear terrorized everyone in the state, right from the common man to the Government. This was … BAABARR.
Even the movie stars Mithun Da. How was it to work with him?
It was immense pleasure to work with him. Everyone knows what kind of actor he is. I always earned pleasure to work with stars like Amitabh Bachchan in film “Dev” and Naseeruddin Shah in film “Maqbool”.
You are known to get into the debt of the role you play. Did any role had major impact on you and affected your personal life?
Yes, “Ardhsatya” role really influenced me. Talking about other roles, until I am on sets, the character is the only thing which revolves in my mind and blood. Once I am off sets I am simply Om Puri.
How was the experience to work with Director Ashuu Tirkha?
He picked up a good subject. It is not easy to shoot on real location from where the film is based on. I am sure, audience will appreciate the work done by Ashuu.
Which are your up-coming films?
“Wanted”, “London Dreams”, “Qurbaan” and “Road to Sangam”.
You have received tons of prestigious awards including Padmshree, Life time achievement and National award. What next?
Many more are left. Let me earn them then we will talk about it, he sums with a smile on his face.
‘CHANDIGARH FASHION WEEK??’... BUT WHEN
Are the reality shows a talent hunt or a way out to increase the TRP, sense Kaushik Ghosh , a renowned fashion choreographer, Sahiba Singh, Miss India Personality , 2004 who were in the city to hold a seminar organised by IIFT and to announce an image building workshop.
The duo will be back in the city near the Diwali to conduct a siminar and guess what they sense, “Reality shows in which contestants use foul language should be banned.”
The fashion choreographer has a point to prove himself, “They are degrading the image of our youth. Imagine, what outsiders would think of Indian youth when they see a bunch of attention-hungry youngsters calling names on national TV. And then, post-reality shows, contestants’ conscience suddenly awakens to expose casting couch tales. “These reality shows are teaching youngsters to be mean, abusive, blatant and unethical and are now being paid back in the same coin,” adds Sahiba Singh.
The 10-day-workshop will mainly focus on image building, a comprehensive term for dressing sense, ramp walk, attitude and personality development, “One just can’t achieve success on the basis of good looks and a body. You need to have right contacts, know how to approach people and do positive publicity for yourself, which is also a part of my workshop’s curriculum,” informs Kaushik.
Other reason he cites for holding a workshop in the city, “Chandigarh has the best looking boys and girls in India, competitive designers, fashion conscious people, affluent NRI market which together can make the Chandigarh Fashion Week possible.”
Having choreographed shows for the best designers and leading models, he regrets the absence of a male mega model. “We haven’t got a Rahul Dev or a Milind Soman for a long time as modeling for boys is a mere stepping stone to enter television or Bollywood.”
Well, Is Sahiba aiming for the same too?
“Not at all. I am too happy doing modelling to go to Bollywood, where the competition makes you stoop to any level.” As for her future plans, “Lots of modelling and post that, working for various UN programmes in Delhi.”
“It’s after a gap of nine years that I am conducting my workshop,” Ghosh pointed out having held similar workshops in 62 cities in India and abroad. “The Chandigarh Workshop would be open for five-year-olds to those 30 years of age,” mentioned Ghosh who finds that the modelling world isn’t just looking to young girls and guys. “Look at television advertising. There’s a huge gap that needs to be filled,” he said mentioning that today not just industry hopefuls but professionals from diverse fields such as doctors, engineers, even homemakers are lining up to be better groomed.
Speaking of all things Punjabi, once again Ghosh reiterated his “dream” to be part of a Chandigarh Fashion Week. “I hope someone approaches me. There’s a Bangalore Fashion Week, Kolkata Fashion Week, so why not a Chandigarh Fashion Week. I’ll be only to happy to organise one,” Ghosh remarked. Here’s someone who is thinking ahead!
The current style trend also brings in chequered patterns and big floral prints, something reminiscent of the ‘70s fashion,” adds on Sahiba who recently walked the ramp in London for a fundraiser show. “I also did Manish Malhotra’s bridal show recently and it’s strange I hadn’t up with him so far,” the model smiled to say. For someone who never really thought of modelling as a career, she sure has come a long way. “It all started after I gave the Miss India contest a shot back in 2004. It was a turning point in my life,” admits Sahiba who credits her success in the industry to the ‘grooming and polishing’ she underwent during the contest.
“Today, it’s all about the way you present yourself. Beauty contests are more personality contests now,” spoke Sahiba who surprisingly didn’t do the obvious post her Miss India run. “No, I didn’t have my eyes set on Bollywood. My focus is the ramp along with the television commercials that I regularly feature in,” the model made her point. It’s no surprise then that this is what her advice to wannabes in the industry is. “It’s important to stay focussed for that’s how you will get to where you aspire to be,” she summed up. Now that’s an attitude who wouldn’t like!
"You can't just pack your bags and leave for Bombay,"Ghosh told the students. He brought in success stories as living examples and motivated them to plan their entry into modelling well. Sahiba, who's walked the ramp for leading fashion designers and is working on a Bollywood project right now, says there's no shortcut to fame. "I was once very overweight and have worked hard to gain shape," she said.
The city has a largest pool of good-looking men and women, felt fashion choreographer Kaushik Ghosh and deserved to have a fashion week of its own
Working with Rishi Kapoor was a life time experience-Kulraj Randhawa
An absolute fun-loving girl, the very pretty Kulraj Randhawa started her career as a TV artist but then she tried her luck in Punjabi movies.
An attempt to discover her roots and guess what, she succeeded with flying colours. “Mannat” and “Tera Mera Ki Rishta” were block-buster hits and her pair with Jimmy Shergill was loved by masses and classes.
These days she is overwhelmed and excited about her recent released “Chintuji” along with olden day’s charmer Rishi Kapoor. Chintuji was out in theatre on September 4.
She is listed on 22nd place when it comes to number of female actors starring with Rishi Kapoor. During the promotion of the film, Kulraj interacted and shared about her experience, her forthcoming projects.
About the “Chintuji”, Kulraj is excited and eagerly waiting for people’s response.“Chintuji” is presented by Kaleidoscope and Next Gen Films. It is Written and Directed by Ranjit Kapoor and Produced by Bobby Bedi. The film also stars Rishi Kapoor and Priyanshu Chatterjee. It deals with hilarious concept of how a filmstar contest for election and enters politics”.
“Chintuji is a small film but it has a big heart. This is one of those films which reinstate your faith in clean, good and engaging cinema, something which was the mainstay of Hindi films in the Sixties and the Seventies “, she adds.
Describing it as one of the best experiences, Kulraj said, “In the intial days, I was very nervous but overall experience was great and is imprinted in golden words in the memory book of mine. One can learn so much from stalwarts like him. Not only about acting also about how to behave on the sets, with people around, how to be down-to-earth and humble and not treat yourself as star and nothing above you. And ask anyone from the cast and crew, everyone will vouch on it”.
“It was immense pleasure to work under the direction work of Ranjit Kapoor. The entire shooting schedule was full of learning, fun, thrills, absolute enjoyable”, she added.
Kulraj plays a character of Devika who handles promotion and publicity of Rishi Kapoor. She helps him to guide the way through contesting election.
About the future plans, Kulraj is quick to add. Besides, “Mastang Mama” there are two more project in pipeline”.
An attempt to discover her roots and guess what, she succeeded with flying colours. “Mannat” and “Tera Mera Ki Rishta” were block-buster hits and her pair with Jimmy Shergill was loved by masses and classes.
These days she is overwhelmed and excited about her recent released “Chintuji” along with olden day’s charmer Rishi Kapoor. Chintuji was out in theatre on September 4.
She is listed on 22nd place when it comes to number of female actors starring with Rishi Kapoor. During the promotion of the film, Kulraj interacted and shared about her experience, her forthcoming projects.
About the “Chintuji”, Kulraj is excited and eagerly waiting for people’s response.“Chintuji” is presented by Kaleidoscope and Next Gen Films. It is Written and Directed by Ranjit Kapoor and Produced by Bobby Bedi. The film also stars Rishi Kapoor and Priyanshu Chatterjee. It deals with hilarious concept of how a filmstar contest for election and enters politics”.
“Chintuji is a small film but it has a big heart. This is one of those films which reinstate your faith in clean, good and engaging cinema, something which was the mainstay of Hindi films in the Sixties and the Seventies “, she adds.
Describing it as one of the best experiences, Kulraj said, “In the intial days, I was very nervous but overall experience was great and is imprinted in golden words in the memory book of mine. One can learn so much from stalwarts like him. Not only about acting also about how to behave on the sets, with people around, how to be down-to-earth and humble and not treat yourself as star and nothing above you. And ask anyone from the cast and crew, everyone will vouch on it”.
“It was immense pleasure to work under the direction work of Ranjit Kapoor. The entire shooting schedule was full of learning, fun, thrills, absolute enjoyable”, she added.
Kulraj plays a character of Devika who handles promotion and publicity of Rishi Kapoor. She helps him to guide the way through contesting election.
About the future plans, Kulraj is quick to add. Besides, “Mastang Mama” there are two more project in pipeline”.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Every city has glamour: Simran
Glamour can exist and does in small cities and towns sense the Miss India Universe, Simran Kaur Mundi, 08.
The girls from small town are rewriting the rules of the glamour world (modelling), says Simran, who was in the city for the Exotic Bridal Show'09, an exotic guide on the bridal wear exhibition held at Hotel Taj, Sector 17 on Sunday, writes Mandeep Puri.
Better than the all, the Miss India knows how to guide the trousseau trends after she walked down the ramp at all the fashion weeks in India and the recent Dubai Fashion Week. "Trousseau is always an important collection at these fashion weeks," says Simran.
Organised by Jasveen Shahi, The Bridal Show-09 was an exhibition that displayed the jewellery and clothes from various leading designer houses. From designer jewellery of gold, kundan, diamond and the trendiest colour stones to the designer bridal wear, stylish handbags, accessories, ethnic wear and bridal photography, the exhibition was a wholesome package.
The cost of bridal collection at the bridal studio here ranged from Rs one to Rs seven lakhs. The 27-carat solitaire was showcased. Also one had the opportunity to own a chartered helicopter.
Showcasing the jewellery were designers Gauri Nainika, Gaurav Gupta, Cue, Malini Aggarwal, Rana Gill, Rina Dhaka, Rocky S, Wendell Rodricks and many more by Chamomile, Juicy Cotoure, Burberry, Ralpha Lauren, FCUK, Steve Madden, Baby Phat and Calvin Klien.
The other exhibitors included the CTC Plaza, Panchkula, Strands Salon, who provided a free make up demo and complementary gift vouchers at the exhibition, Enstrom Helicopter Corpo-ration and Monarch International Charter Services providing flower showering for the newlyweds.
The designing part is explained on the basis of ramp experience, explains Simran. "A fusion of Indian-western wear would be preferred to the usual silhouettes. For example a lehenga stitched in a gown style, with a tail at the bottom”, points the Miss India.
Simran has some grand plans for her wedding too, which includes a very Punjabi outfit, bright pink in colour and heavily embroidered.
Her suggestions to aspiring models: "Don't try to do everything on your own. It can make you vulnerable. It's a good idea to work with a reputed modelling agency. On the looks, she was quick to add, "Girls who are a little better than average looking and over 5'7 aspire to be models. That's fine. Only you need to have your priorities clearly etched out," asserted Simran.
Kissan’, a must watch film
Starring Sohail Khan, Arbaaz Khan, Jackie Shroff, Diya Mirza, Nauheed Cyrusi and Dalip Tahil, Kissan is Director by Puneet Sira. The release has not been hyped hugely and even many still are not aware of the release
The script carries worth. Cinematography appeals. Daboo Malik’s musical score is spongy.
Kissan, a movie that is inhabit rural Punjab with comforting familiarity and the ambience is conducive to a demonstration of flamboyant emotions.
'Kissan' is more or less a remake of Manoj Kumar’s 1967 hit film 'Upkaar', set in a village the film is about two brothers Sohail and Arbaaz Khan, who look like movie stars inspite of one of them being a farmer.
Dayal Singh (Jackie Shroff) is a widower and a farmer in a village in Punjab. He lives with his two sons – Jigar (Sohail Khan) and Aman (Arbaaz Khan). When someone suggests him to send his son for a higher education to city, he sends Aman while Jigar stays with him back in village. On completion of education, Aman becomes a lawyer whereas Jigar becomes a Kissan (farmer) like his father.
Sohan Seth (Dalip Tahil) an ambitious businessman arrives in Dayal’s village with a plan to set up his mega industrial project. He tries to lure the villagers to sell of their lands to him and offers them good compensation. But once Sohan comes to know that the big hurdle in his way is Dayal since he has big influence on the villagers, he designs a scheme to break his family and his influence on the villagers. What happens next forms the story…
The sequences entice the most like the emotional moments between Jackie and Arbaaz and the ones shot in the darkness of night when Sohail with Sharat Saxena and Vishwajeet Pradhan hunt for the village ruffians responsible for Arbaaz’s wife Diya Mirza’s death.
Jackie Shroff’s meaty role attracts and he does with finesse. Sohail Khan shows his tremendous performance as an actor. Arbaaz Khan seems okay. Diya Mirza looks gorgeous and acts well. Nauheed Cyrusi is impressive. Dilip Tahil enacts the part with aplomb. Rest of the cast does fine as well.
It’s an unabashed celebration of old fashioned melodrama with dollops of bone-crunching action in the last 30 minutes that leaves us wondering if Manoj Kumar ever imagined the fight to hold on to the land could ever get so violent and bloody.
In short, Kissan is like a tall spiced-up glass of lassi, not quite malaai maar ke.
The script carries worth. Cinematography appeals. Daboo Malik’s musical score is spongy.
Kissan, a movie that is inhabit rural Punjab with comforting familiarity and the ambience is conducive to a demonstration of flamboyant emotions.
'Kissan' is more or less a remake of Manoj Kumar’s 1967 hit film 'Upkaar', set in a village the film is about two brothers Sohail and Arbaaz Khan, who look like movie stars inspite of one of them being a farmer.
Dayal Singh (Jackie Shroff) is a widower and a farmer in a village in Punjab. He lives with his two sons – Jigar (Sohail Khan) and Aman (Arbaaz Khan). When someone suggests him to send his son for a higher education to city, he sends Aman while Jigar stays with him back in village. On completion of education, Aman becomes a lawyer whereas Jigar becomes a Kissan (farmer) like his father.
Sohan Seth (Dalip Tahil) an ambitious businessman arrives in Dayal’s village with a plan to set up his mega industrial project. He tries to lure the villagers to sell of their lands to him and offers them good compensation. But once Sohan comes to know that the big hurdle in his way is Dayal since he has big influence on the villagers, he designs a scheme to break his family and his influence on the villagers. What happens next forms the story…
The sequences entice the most like the emotional moments between Jackie and Arbaaz and the ones shot in the darkness of night when Sohail with Sharat Saxena and Vishwajeet Pradhan hunt for the village ruffians responsible for Arbaaz’s wife Diya Mirza’s death.
Jackie Shroff’s meaty role attracts and he does with finesse. Sohail Khan shows his tremendous performance as an actor. Arbaaz Khan seems okay. Diya Mirza looks gorgeous and acts well. Nauheed Cyrusi is impressive. Dilip Tahil enacts the part with aplomb. Rest of the cast does fine as well.
It’s an unabashed celebration of old fashioned melodrama with dollops of bone-crunching action in the last 30 minutes that leaves us wondering if Manoj Kumar ever imagined the fight to hold on to the land could ever get so violent and bloody.
In short, Kissan is like a tall spiced-up glass of lassi, not quite malaai maar ke.
Skirts, an essential part of today’s wardrobe
RU too old to wear a skirt? Think again.....Certainly u r not.... a high per cent of Indian women are happy to bare a lot of leg in skirt right up to the age of 40, writes Mandeep Puri.
Back in 1980s, a woman older than 30 would dare to venture out in a skirt for fear of being labelled 'mutton dressed as lamb'. But today they are being worn for almost a decade longer before being consigned to the back of the wardrobe.
From Hollywood Celebrities such as Victoria Beckham (35), Danni Minogue (38), Elle Macpherson (46), Jennifer Aniston (40) to the Indian News Makers like Priyanka Chopra, Riya Sen, Katrina Kaif are all fans of the skirts.
They may come under fire for signs of ageing around the knees, but they do have generally flawless legs. The modern, image-obsessed culture means that women work hard to maintain a youthful appearance, spending hours in the gym and even undergoing plastic surgery.
It all bodes well for the future of the skirt - but how old is too old to wear one? We asked female for their opinion... Some women should never start wearing skirts. It's not always about age - skirts never did anything for the heavy-hipped and overweight.
The shorter the skirt, the more it accentuates the hips. The more it shows off bad legs. Yes, all legs are good, but some are more perfect than others. Let's face it -skirts are for slender, stylish women, under 35 (or looking 35) and little girls. Little girls look very sweet in short skirts. So do hot skinny teenagers and women in their ragingly sexual come-and-get-me twenties. Legs are sexy. Legs are sporty, young, and innocent. Legs lead up to private territory. Good legs make men look twice. Especially bare legs. It's why women in their 40s and, gulp, 50s with half-way decent legs think they project a youthful kickiness when they wear a skirt.
'It shows that women have an increasing confidence in their bodies and are happy to dress accordingly,' says Disha, a city based model. 'If the trend continues there's no doubt that, within a decade, women in their mid-40s and early 50s will rightly regard a skirt as an essential part of their everyday wardrobe. Skirts are the best for it and it gives a girl the appealing looks”, she adds. 'I'm a girl,' and it’s a message.
A 40-plus woman who wears a skirt knows she's running out of time. Also, wearing a when you're over 40 - unless four inches above the knee and with opaque tights - shows you haven't a clue about fashion. There is nothing more ageing than a long skirt on women of a certain age. You can get away with lovely white hair and lots of wrinkles, but long skirts are the precursor to the shroud.
“Girls in their 20s and 30s can waft around looking charmingly, hippy-dippy in mid-calf or long skirts. But this same length can make most women a decade or too later in life look older than our chronological age. We do not want to embrace our inner grandmother”, sense Mehak, a model.
“There is, however, an important difference between short and mini; it is one that older women need to discover fast if they do not want to walk around to the sound of bleating mutton”, she adds. “I think most sensible and stylish women have an innate sense of what works and what doesn't without any need for dogma or rules, because dressing is more about context than convention. I wear skirts and will continue to wear them until my knees no longer pass muster, because it's fun, because knee-length is too Carla Bruni, mid-calf is disastrous, and full-length maxi is - paradoxically - a look only the very young can carry off”, opines Rohini Chhabra, a professional.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
The SEX and the CITY
REPORTS OF AROUND 3200 SEX WORKERS IN TRI-CITY
While the general perception points the presence of ‘Black Sheep’ operating to make big money in flesh trade, certain sources reveals that the metropolitan culture is growing fast here in the tricity.
‘Flash Trade racket busted’…. a common headline and a routine business. Is it so difficult to find paid sex in the tri-city? Easy, as I we sets out on an undercover story.
While call girl culture is gripping the tri-city, there are reports of few girls being forced into this profession taking advantage of their economic hardships and some girls to fulfill their ambition of leading better life at every cost is also alluring many girls into this profession.
If the police reports are to be believed, almost 50 calls girls and pimps has been arrested in less than a month in different of the tri-city. Any doubt, there are open indications of believing that Chandigarh and its counter parts is an emerging as a hub of flesh trade.
It is being said “since the money involved in this sinister trade is quite high call girls are even being brought on contract basis from Delhi, Mumbai and other places ranging between Rs 20,000 and Rs 60,000”.
“Apart from girls brought to the city from other states, there are around 3,000 sex workers active in the city”, claims sources. There are reports “few places in and around the city are fast emerging into red light areas.”
The city is set to join the league of metros in flesh trade. If things go unchecked, the area around Mani Majra may soon be what GB Road is to Delhi, Sona Gachi to Kolkata and Falkland Road to Mumbai.
Though prostitution is a reality in the city, it was usually happening in dingy guesthouses and hotels. But it was never as open as it is now. Girls soliciting customers in the open and striking deals without hesitation was unheard of earlier.
After busting a gang, allegedly involved in flesh trade few months back, the police has every reason to believe the reports of increasing activity of the involvement of inter-state gangs.
The UT police recently arrested five sex workers and a pimp from outside a Sector 45 hotel and claimed that it was a big sex racket.
Sources in the police claims that there are “call girls” being brought from Delhi, Mumbai, Punjab, Assam and West Bengal. Sometimes girls are brought to the city on the pretext of getting them employed here but are later forced into this profession.
A girl hailing from Uttaranchal who was arrested last year told the police, “My love for extravagant lifestyle and unaffordable demands forced my parents to disown me and then I was allured into prostitution on the pretext of a monthly income of Rs 20000”.
“Today even models and younger girls are being roped into flesh trade by pimps and it is becoming more organized in Chandigarh”, she added.
Explaining why sex rackets were being run so openly, a police officer on the condition of anonymity said that the girls and agents who are arrested for prostitution easily get bail in court. “Sex between consenting adults is not an offence. The modus operandi is fashioned in such a manner that the arrangement between the customers and girl looks like that between two consenting adults. Thus, it becomes difficult to book the suspects under sections of the Prevention of Immoral Trafficking Act (PITA), which is non-bailable,” he pointed out.
Besides this, even the million dollar question, technology is a boon or curse, has been asked umpteen times. Technology has made our life easier and more comfortable in many aspects. But it has other sides also. Technology has created threat among parents because of its misuse. YouTube, Social Networking sites, Internet porn sites have been existing and worrying parents because of misuse of these sites by children. Though, these sites are available on net without any control and any one can access them by just clicking ‘I am 18’ tab. There are thousands of uncontrolled porn websites. Pornography is available in different forms like explicit pictures, short animated movies, stories to online videos. This is not limited to porn sites but sex trade and online brothel are also emerging on the net with huge network across the globe.
Quick money
An NGO working among the call girls had reported “girls from rich families are also involved in the profession for quick money and fun.”
Recent disclosure:
“Mr. Cash” — the alleged hi-tech pimp, who was arrested by the UT police in 2005 reportedly, had a list of over 372 clients.
This list had names of over 150 people from Chandigarh such as company executives of multi-national, businessmen and some students.
He was operating through an internet account which was busted by the police. The list of his clients included few people from top echelons of Chandigarh.
Police officers confirm “the modern pimps are more shrewd and organized and reportedly maintain good contacts with few influential people of the society like police officers, bureaucrats, businessmen and politicians.”
In the city a survey conducted by state AIDS control society had estimated presence of more than 3000 commercial sex workers operating here.
Pick up points:
I investigates and list out the ‘‘major pick-up points’’ in the city
Palsora Chowk near Mohali barrier
Picadilly roundabout, near the sector 21 petrol pump
Old Labour Chowk (sector 20-21-33-34)
Sector 20-30 dividing road
NAC, Mani Majra, adjoining bus stand
While the general perception points the presence of ‘Black Sheep’ operating to make big money in flesh trade, certain sources reveals that the metropolitan culture is growing fast here in the tricity.
‘Flash Trade racket busted’…. a common headline and a routine business. Is it so difficult to find paid sex in the tri-city? Easy, as I we sets out on an undercover story.
While call girl culture is gripping the tri-city, there are reports of few girls being forced into this profession taking advantage of their economic hardships and some girls to fulfill their ambition of leading better life at every cost is also alluring many girls into this profession.
If the police reports are to be believed, almost 50 calls girls and pimps has been arrested in less than a month in different of the tri-city. Any doubt, there are open indications of believing that Chandigarh and its counter parts is an emerging as a hub of flesh trade.
It is being said “since the money involved in this sinister trade is quite high call girls are even being brought on contract basis from Delhi, Mumbai and other places ranging between Rs 20,000 and Rs 60,000”.
“Apart from girls brought to the city from other states, there are around 3,000 sex workers active in the city”, claims sources. There are reports “few places in and around the city are fast emerging into red light areas.”
The city is set to join the league of metros in flesh trade. If things go unchecked, the area around Mani Majra may soon be what GB Road is to Delhi, Sona Gachi to Kolkata and Falkland Road to Mumbai.
Though prostitution is a reality in the city, it was usually happening in dingy guesthouses and hotels. But it was never as open as it is now. Girls soliciting customers in the open and striking deals without hesitation was unheard of earlier.
After busting a gang, allegedly involved in flesh trade few months back, the police has every reason to believe the reports of increasing activity of the involvement of inter-state gangs.
The UT police recently arrested five sex workers and a pimp from outside a Sector 45 hotel and claimed that it was a big sex racket.
Sources in the police claims that there are “call girls” being brought from Delhi, Mumbai, Punjab, Assam and West Bengal. Sometimes girls are brought to the city on the pretext of getting them employed here but are later forced into this profession.
A girl hailing from Uttaranchal who was arrested last year told the police, “My love for extravagant lifestyle and unaffordable demands forced my parents to disown me and then I was allured into prostitution on the pretext of a monthly income of Rs 20000”.
“Today even models and younger girls are being roped into flesh trade by pimps and it is becoming more organized in Chandigarh”, she added.
Explaining why sex rackets were being run so openly, a police officer on the condition of anonymity said that the girls and agents who are arrested for prostitution easily get bail in court. “Sex between consenting adults is not an offence. The modus operandi is fashioned in such a manner that the arrangement between the customers and girl looks like that between two consenting adults. Thus, it becomes difficult to book the suspects under sections of the Prevention of Immoral Trafficking Act (PITA), which is non-bailable,” he pointed out.
Besides this, even the million dollar question, technology is a boon or curse, has been asked umpteen times. Technology has made our life easier and more comfortable in many aspects. But it has other sides also. Technology has created threat among parents because of its misuse. YouTube, Social Networking sites, Internet porn sites have been existing and worrying parents because of misuse of these sites by children. Though, these sites are available on net without any control and any one can access them by just clicking ‘I am 18’ tab. There are thousands of uncontrolled porn websites. Pornography is available in different forms like explicit pictures, short animated movies, stories to online videos. This is not limited to porn sites but sex trade and online brothel are also emerging on the net with huge network across the globe.
Quick money
An NGO working among the call girls had reported “girls from rich families are also involved in the profession for quick money and fun.”
Recent disclosure:
“Mr. Cash” — the alleged hi-tech pimp, who was arrested by the UT police in 2005 reportedly, had a list of over 372 clients.
This list had names of over 150 people from Chandigarh such as company executives of multi-national, businessmen and some students.
He was operating through an internet account which was busted by the police. The list of his clients included few people from top echelons of Chandigarh.
Police officers confirm “the modern pimps are more shrewd and organized and reportedly maintain good contacts with few influential people of the society like police officers, bureaucrats, businessmen and politicians.”
In the city a survey conducted by state AIDS control society had estimated presence of more than 3000 commercial sex workers operating here.
Pick up points:
I investigates and list out the ‘‘major pick-up points’’ in the city
Palsora Chowk near Mohali barrier
Picadilly roundabout, near the sector 21 petrol pump
Old Labour Chowk (sector 20-21-33-34)
Sector 20-30 dividing road
NAC, Mani Majra, adjoining bus stand
Saturday, August 22, 2009
CHANDIGARH is OPEN and EXPERIENTIAL, says VIKRAM PHADNIS
City is ‘open and experimental’, and when it comes to fashion, Chandigarh has a distinct favour, says the Bollywood designer Vikram Phadnis, writes Mandeep Puri..“Every city has its own style of dressing and it’s very difficult to rate, but yes, when we talk about Chandigarh, we can say it’s not very high on flamboyance but has a style of its own”, says the designer who designs the Indian industry and his creations become trendsetters for the world. Vikram Phandis was in city for Blenders Pride Magical Nights Tour fashion show.
Among the most STYLISTs....the designer who had been designing for Bollywood for long has his own favorites too. Of course, Salman is the most stylish man in Bollywood. He is a style icon without an effort, feels Vikram Phadnis .
A long journey in the fashion circuit, his career spans over 17 years. Ask him what’s next, and he replies, “I’m writing a script for my film. Though nothing in my career had been pre-planned, but direction has always been a conscious step.”
Friday fashion changes in Bollywood. And with it trends change across the globe," declares, Vikram. As proof, he cites: "People actually ask their designers to customise various dresses shown in Bollywood films for them. For instance, the sherwani's and lehngas in the film Mujhe Se Shaadi Karoge became very popular."
From Priyanka Chopra, Aishwarya Rai, Katrina Kaif, Sushmita Sen, Bipasha Basu, Ayesha Takia, Malaika Arora, Amrita Arora to Karisma Kapoor...yes..he has dressed them all!
Designing for a comedy movie is easier as compared to character driven script points Vikram. “Surprisingly, I have always designed for comedy movies, most of which have been directed by David Dhawan,” Speaking of Bollywood, the designer has spent over a year working on the outfits for Sushmita Sen for the forthcoming film ‘Dulha Mil Gaya’.
Speaking of challenges, for Vikram it was ‘Salaam-e-Ishq’ that put his creative abilities to test. “I spent two years of my life putting together 800 costumes for the film. From the leading actors to the dance troupes, everyone got to wear clothes designed by me,” says Phadnis.
While among the men Salman Khan is the ‘The’ style icon of Bollywood", for the ladies, he says it’s a forever changing list...just like fashion.
Describing his first visit, the designers says, “I first came to Chandigarh for the shooting of Namastey London and I must say the city has a distinct flavour in fashion. In fact for the movie Namastey London, I created quite a few designs for Katrina after watching the ladies here.”
What was he showcasing at the show? “
It’s club wear, so it has to have a lot of bling. My garments are Bollywood-inspired and have a lot of embellishments.”
On fashion front, “After this, I have Lakme Fashion Week and for the LFW I will present a bridal wear collection for the first time.” He spells bridal trends for the season, “My collection is going to be different. I am presenting earthy but fiery hues. It’s going to be a royal old-world charm.”
Friday, August 21, 2009
We love Chandigarh
While for cute and sexy - Manisha Lamba, Chandigarh has always been a favourite, the designer Vikram Phadnis and Mandira Wirk sense that the city is ‘open and experimental’.
In the city for the Blenders Pride Magical Nights Tour fashion show, we talk to the actor and the bollywood designers about their films, fashion, and more…
Manisha Lamba
A Punjaban, Minissha is always happy to be in the North. "I am always excited to come to Punjab
, as my heart longs for this land and connects to almost everyone here." And for the city, "Chandigarh has always been a favourite and what I like here is the accent of the people and the flavour of the food that you don't get anywhere else on earth."
“The food apart, it would give me an opportunity to speak and hear Punjabi,” says the petite actress who wanted to be a journalist, but then acting came her way.
"Bollywood has been very warm to me. In fact, the industry is changing and accepting a lot of newcomers and above all, the industry is expanding and letting in a lot of beginners," says Minissha. Ask was acting a conscious decision and she says, "I did a commercial film with director Shoojit Sircar and he was the one who cast me in Yahaan, and hence started my filmy career.
Here for the fashion event, we ask how did she decide upon the show and she says, "The show is about work hard and party harder and I believe in the same, and this was my reason for choosing the show." So, what is she wearing, "I would be wearing designs by both Mandira Virk and Vikram Phadnis." Decode fashion, "I am not a fashion victim, so I can do without a lot of fashionable things, but then fashion too means an extension of the self."
What's much more exciting is my upcoming project with Shyam Benegal. In his film, Well Done Abba, my character is very different. Like nothing I've ever played before. The story is about a father and daughter relationship living in a village. I play the daughter of Boman Irani."
Elaborating on her tryst with alternate cinema, Minissha called it "an educative experience. I have never entered a village in real life, but this film was shot in a village. It was a hat ke experience."
Vikram Phadnis
Most Stylists... Of course, Salman is the most stylish man in Bollywood. He is a style icon without an effort, feels fashion Vikram Phadnis , who has been designing for bollywood for long and has his own favorites too.
He makes the stars look good and his creations become trendsetters for the world. Vikram Phandis was in city for Blenders Pride Magical Nights Tour fashion show.
A long journey in the fashion circuit, his career spans over 17 years. Ask him what’s next, and he replies, “I’m writing a script for my film. Though nothing in my career had been pre-planned, but direction has always been a conscious step.”
Friday fashion changes in Bollywood. And with it trends change across the globe," declares, Vikram. As proof, he cites: "People actually ask their designers to customise various dresses shown in Bollywood films for them. For instance, the sherwani's and lehngas in the film Mujhe Se Shaadi Karoge became very popular." From Priyanka Chopra, Aishwarya Rai, Katrina Kaif, Sushmita Sen, Bipasha Basu, Ayesha Takia, Malaika Arora and Amrita Arora to Karisma Kapoor...yes...He has dressed them all!
Speaking of challenges, for Vikram it was ‘Salaam-e-Ishq’ that put his creative abilities to test. “I spent two years of my life putting together 800 costumes for the film. From the leading actors to the dance troupes, everyone got to wear clothes designed by me,” says Phadnis, who also dressed up the men on screen including Salman Khan who he rates as ‘The’ style icon of Bollywood. As for the ladies, he says it’s a forever changing list. Just like fashion.
What was he showcasing at the show? “
It’s club wear, so it has to have a lot of bling. My garments are Bollywood-inspired and have a lot of embellishments.”
On fashion front, “After this, I have Lakme Fashion Week and for the LFW I will present a bridal wear collection for the first time.” He spells bridal trends for the season, “My collection is going to be different. I am presenting earthy but fiery hues. It’s going to be a royal old-world charm.”
Mandira Wirk
For those of you who have caught stylish action (fashion) week after (fashion) week, will know that Mandira Wirk is a busy bee. The relatively new to the industry designer has been churning out collections that have left lasting impressions. But it’s her surname that gets us inquisitive and we learn she’s a Wirk from Jalandhar. “Punjab is home to me,” says the Punjabi kudi who packed her bags early on to study at the London School of Fashion. “I was always designing my own clothes and that kind of progressed into a full-fledged career,” she says.
What’s in store for the show?
“My collection is feminine and wearable. From ivory to mushroom, I have used lilac and fuschia for my collection and the fabrics include silk and jersey.”
What about Bollywood?
“I have done designing for reality shows. I dressed Lara Dutta and Deepika Padukone for the Knight Riders and some Bollywood projects are in the pipeline.”
Last, what’s keeping her occupied these days?
“After this show I have the Kolkata Fashion Week, Lakme Fashion Week and Spring Summer-2010 collection,” she signs off.
Luxury is changing from a status symbol to a style symbol says international designer Suchitra Dalal
It’s a common saying that ‘A woman has her emotions attached to jewels’.
And thus, to create world class designers in the field of jeweller and make them experienced and knowledgeable designers, the Jewellery Design and Technology Institute (JDTI), Sector 35, Chandigarh introduced a workshop on advanced jewellery designing techniques and international trends, giving young designers an opportunity to learn from international designer Suchitra Dalal.
Suchitra, an alumnus of NIFT was here in the city to conduct a workshop on advanced jewellery designing techniques and international trends.
Suchitra has worked with leading international brands like Cartier, Mont Blanc, Vecheron, Dunhill, Costantin, Van Cleef and Arpels.Currently working with French high-end luxury brand Chloe.
“I hope to encourage budding designers and introduce them to international trends in design. There is a lot of information that I want to share with students, making them aware of new techniques of design trends,” says Suchitra.
“Luxury marketing is still a developing concept in India, with many European brands looking towards India, studying the culture and customizing according to Indian demands and also incorporating elements like Indian embroidery,’’ Suchitra mentions how design is still a new concept in India, just three decades old, while for Europe, it dates back to centuries.” Suchitra hopes to return to India after gaining some more international exposure.”I want to be more involved in design education and feel responsible to make people aware.
The workshop covers the concept of luxury, international luxury brands in fashion and jewellery, tools of luxury and sketching and colouring techniques for designs. While the buying power of Indians has increased, Suchitra feels that there is still a long way to go, “Something fashionable in Paris still takes about six months to a year to reach India. Luxury is changing from a status symbol to a style symbol.”
"If we slash the prices to make them affordable, the product would not stand true to the term 'luxury brand', meant only for the niche class”, explains Suchitra.
The prospects of luxury brands in India, she says, "The country does have a good number of elite, the reason these really expensive brands have a thriving business here." No surprises to see several leading brands opening up their retail stores in India. Also, the brands are extensively studying the unexplored Indian markets." As for the brands, she is a part of, "The focus is on the affluent north India, the people of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh, as the spending capacity is maximum here."
Well, there is another reason for the leading international brands to target India, "Fashion in India has always been about the right clothes, minus the accessories, which were never important. It is only in recent times, that top designers started recognizing accessories as a separate important fashion genre."
Ritu Malik, CEO, JDTI says, “There are exceptional career opportunities in jewellery trade and with proper training and experience; there is no limit to what you can achieve.”
The three-day workshop ended on August 20 and included discussions on customer design preference and international fashion and styling.
‘The Golden Lion King’
Life is a circle and each one is a part of it. Each one has a role to play, however small or insignificant it may seem, but we need to take our place to fulfill our purpose in life.
Well that's the underlying theme of ‘The Golden Lion King, a two day musical performance that was staged by students of St John's High School, Chandigarh, at Tagore Theatre to mark the school's Golden Jubilee celebrations, last week.
On the occasion of the Golden Jubilee of the St.John’s High School and the Christian Brother’s Education in Chandigarh, the school presented a splendid live musical-theatre performance in the name of unlike anything Chandigarh Has Ever Seen.
Taking inspiration from Walt Disney's The Lion King, the play brought out many a lesson from the jungle for us humans: Be brave only when you have to, don't go scouting for trouble; understand the balance of nature and respect all creatures; look inside yourself for you are more than you have become. The most important theme was of course essayed by the young lion Simba, who finally musters courage to confront his past, believes in himself and takes charge.
Though the lions, including Simba's dad Mufasa and his evil uncle Scarface, looked regal in their beautiful masks, it was the three laughing hyenas who stole the show. The chubby-turned-lean Simba to the wise Rafiki, the colourful Zazu to the cute Timon and portly Pumba, the elegant Nala to the dancing meerkats, the cart-wheeling monkeys to the bisons running roughshod, the graceful antelopes to the perfect pelicans, every boy played his role just right.
This was an act par excellence put together by none other than the students themselves at the Tagore Theatre. Marking the 50 glorious years, the musical was an endeavor to support the cause of educating over 300 under-privileged children who are, today, able to access a holistic education at the St.John’s High School and are part of the mainstream system. This in itself is a unique manifestation of the cause that the under-privileged children are seen as one with the rest of the students. Through this, the school has been instrumental in transforming many lives. Other than this, all eyes were on the five main characters that wore the masks designed by artist Viney Vadhera.
“The minute we told Viney about the idea, he volunteered to be a part of the endavour,” explained Kavita Das, the principal. “The Golden Lion King was a grand production directed by J. Likhari. From the students, their parents and the staff, gave their best. No professional was hired for this because we wanted to represent the talent within the students and also give them an opportunity to develop their acting abilities,” she adds.
Viney, who took nearly two weeks to design one mask said, “The whole process of studying the characters, designing and collecting material for the masks was a challenging one. I had to work within a limited budget and time. The masks had to be light in weight, so I used paper mache for them. Initially, I made large -sized masks, which Kavita Das politely turned down. She wanted small and light ones. So, we had to take the moulds of the five main ‘heads’ and that’s how I managed to make the masks.”
Due to the school’s exceptional social effort and undying intent towards this endeavor, Meena Bazaar extended their support by sponsoring the musical shows.
The circle was complete as the play was all about reaffirming the sense of belonging. Hats off ... all... cheers for the St John's family.
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