With a growing number of people becoming fashion conscious these days, Chandigarh is carving out a niche for itself in the world of fashion. It is all set to become countrys new fashion hub, as being a home to several fashion institutes in Punjab, the satellite city offers a valuable platform for all budding designers in showcasing their creative work, writes Mandeep Puri, as he talks to the style icon Ashley Rebeloo.
Clothes makes a man, believes Ashley, who was in the city to judge the designer collection of the INIFD, which were displayed at INIFD ‘Designer Medley’ 09, the annual passion out fashion show.
After all when it comes to Bollywood and long successful innings there, no one knows it better than Ashley Rebello. He’s been essentially a ladies’ man, having dressed up the likes of Aishwarya Rai, Katrina Kaif, Tabu, Sushmita Sen, Isha Koppikar in Bollywood to Nicole Kidman and Hunter Tylor in Hollywood.
“I am really impressed when I see the way students are churning out creative collections...I think when it comes to fashion and making a statement, the kids in Chandigarh have an edge over the others,” he points out. He is the first Indian Designer to design clothes for the Oscar winning director.
Worked with Salman in the past Veer and his show Dus Ka Dum,” informs Ashley who will dress up the actor in forthcoming films like ‘Wanted’ with Ayesha Takia, ‘London Dreams’ where he stars opposite Asin and ‘Main Aur Mrs Khanna’ with Kareena.
He’s also doing clothes for the beautiful lady Katrina. “She’s definitely a style icon,” believes the stylist who also rates Sonam Kapoor as someone who has a style of her own.
Beside this, Ashley has been designer the wardrobe for some the most hottest Bollywood celebrities, which includes Mallika Sherawat for her appearance at the Cannes Film festival, movies like Page 3, Shabad, Laram, Kya Kool Hai Hum, Jo Jeeta Vahi Sikander, Chandani Bar, Biwi No-1, Haseena Maan Jayegi, Sarfarosh, Hera Pheri and many more.
About the Show
Many top fashion models walked the ramp during a fashion show INIFD Designer Medley 09. They were wearing collections of students graduating from International Institute of Fashion Design.There were 17 collections used in the fashion show that characterized original style and elegance expressed by student designers.The students presented their innovative concepts, as they tried to present the fusion of Indian wear with contemporary clothes.The event provided these students an opportunity to showcase their creativity as well as try to understand the nerve of potential buyers beside looking at public inclination for something distinct.Be it clothes, shoes or accessories designer wear is in great demand in India.Sneha Sharma, one of the participating student, say, “ Earlier, not many people were aware about the fashion industry, today they are becoming fashion conscious. Customers have started taking interest in accessories, gears from head to toe. The industry holds a lot of scopes since students are very fond of fashion these days and so they are studying fashion. It’s not limited to dressing well and looking good but about your forecast for trend and fashion and your creation.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Madhur Bhandarkar, Mughda and Neil, the three stars
Though new but choosy, they both are conscious about the kind of cinema they does, while the other is I do.
In the city, for the promotion of his latest movie Jail, along with Madhur Bhandarkar, Mughda Godse and Neil looked as much enthusiastic about the movie as the probing journos. The calm actor suddenly turned live wire the moment you mention Jail. "It is obvious to have high expectations from every movie you work in. But more than that the hard-hitting realities shown in Jail should strike with public to make it work," he says.
“I have been conscious about the kind of cinema I do. This script fit my bill,” he is quick to add.
That holds true for model turned actor Mugdha Godse who was last seen in Bhandarkar’s super-hit film ‘Fashion’. “I am new to Bollywood but at the same time I want to be choosy about the work I do. I am extremely lucky to have a director like Bhandarkar cast me twice,” Godse remarked. While ‘Fashion’ saw her play a glamourous role, in ‘Jail’, Mugdha goes totally de-glam. “It’s a more serious and demanding role and I hope the audience appreciates the hard work we have all put in,” the actor remarked.
As far as future projects, this new generation of actors wants to take on Bollywood on their own terms. “At the end of the day, it’s the work you do that speaks for you. I have so far done done a few genres but it’s action that I really want to do next,” pitched in Neil. Mugdha agreed: “It’s not that there’s no work in the industry. It’s what appeals to you that make you take the final decision.” It’s a new breed indeed!
Mugdha Godse is conscious of the horde of lensmen eager to click her. She's conscious of the eyes on conscious of the eyes on her at the launch of her new film on BSNL Live. She's constantly fidgeting with her hair, moving them back and forth, preening and posing for the cameras, smiling as she talks, smiling as she acknowledges the oft-repeated prefix of "gorgeous" to Mugdha Godse as it comes from different BSNL officials from the dais. She is conscious she is a known face now.
"It's my second film with Madhur. The first was Fashion where I played a model, so there arose no question of being unglamorous. Now Jail, which is a realistic subject. It was a nice experience,"Mugdha says.
In the city, for the promotion of his latest movie Jail, along with Madhur Bhandarkar, Mughda Godse and Neil looked as much enthusiastic about the movie as the probing journos. The calm actor suddenly turned live wire the moment you mention Jail. "It is obvious to have high expectations from every movie you work in. But more than that the hard-hitting realities shown in Jail should strike with public to make it work," he says.
“I have been conscious about the kind of cinema I do. This script fit my bill,” he is quick to add.
That holds true for model turned actor Mugdha Godse who was last seen in Bhandarkar’s super-hit film ‘Fashion’. “I am new to Bollywood but at the same time I want to be choosy about the work I do. I am extremely lucky to have a director like Bhandarkar cast me twice,” Godse remarked. While ‘Fashion’ saw her play a glamourous role, in ‘Jail’, Mugdha goes totally de-glam. “It’s a more serious and demanding role and I hope the audience appreciates the hard work we have all put in,” the actor remarked.
As far as future projects, this new generation of actors wants to take on Bollywood on their own terms. “At the end of the day, it’s the work you do that speaks for you. I have so far done done a few genres but it’s action that I really want to do next,” pitched in Neil. Mugdha agreed: “It’s not that there’s no work in the industry. It’s what appeals to you that make you take the final decision.” It’s a new breed indeed!
Mugdha Godse is conscious of the horde of lensmen eager to click her. She's conscious of the eyes on conscious of the eyes on her at the launch of her new film on BSNL Live. She's constantly fidgeting with her hair, moving them back and forth, preening and posing for the cameras, smiling as she talks, smiling as she acknowledges the oft-repeated prefix of "gorgeous" to Mugdha Godse as it comes from different BSNL officials from the dais. She is conscious she is a known face now.
"It's my second film with Madhur. The first was Fashion where I played a model, so there arose no question of being unglamorous. Now Jail, which is a realistic subject. It was a nice experience,"Mugdha says.
City a hub of Web Developers
From the good old days of the tag, to the XML-savvy Web services of today, applied Internet language has come a long way. And nowhere is this more evident than in the field of Web application development.
As the Internet grew into a major player on the global economic front, so did the number of investors who were interested in its development. So, you may wonder, how does the Internet continue to play a major role in communications, media and news?
Web developments are business strategies and policies implemented on the Web through the use of User, Business and Data services. These tools are where the future lies.
Who Needs Web Applications and Why?
There are many entities that require applications for the Web-one example would be Business-to-Business interaction. Many companies in the world today demand to do business with each other over secure and private networks. This process is becoming increasingly popular with a lot of overseas companies who outsource projects to each other. From the simple process of transferring funds into a bank account, to deploying a large scale Web services network that updates pricing information globally, the adoption of a Web applications infrastructure is vital for many businesses.
The city beautiful is fast becoming a highly attractive sourcing destination for companies looking for business process outsourcing, offshore software engineering and contract manufacturing service.
According to Amit Dua, who runs a web development company ‘Signity Solutions’, Chandigarh is the employment node for the entire northern region, known for its entrepreneurial skills and perseverance, qualities that are targeted by companies of the new economy. Many professionals who migrated to other parts of the country or the globe are now aspiring to come back to this region due to the growth potential available here.
Moreover, in this present day, even a small entrepreneur probably has a presence on the Internet and increasing the business.
“Unlike your company's office that may be open from 8-5, Monday to Friday, your company’s website is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. There are many different time zones that may affect your business, which is why being on the web makes it time convenient for everyone, but still firms hesitate in building company’s own website”, says Priyanka Sachdeva, a web designer.
Although, there are a lot many benefits of having a web presence, but millions of companies continue to snub the Web — potentially limiting their growth and that of e-commerce and the economy , but now, the companies are realising that a Web site is just one of several ways to reach customers — not the only path to fast growth, that is reaching out to the prospective customers in just one go.
However, certain businesses have launched and some are on the verge of launching their own Web sites that allow customers to place orders and pay online, making not only a convenient mode but also helps in increasing company sales and presence.
It’s never too late; still a small step can do big. Come forward, and LET US SERVE YOU …
As the Internet grew into a major player on the global economic front, so did the number of investors who were interested in its development. So, you may wonder, how does the Internet continue to play a major role in communications, media and news?
Web developments are business strategies and policies implemented on the Web through the use of User, Business and Data services. These tools are where the future lies.
Who Needs Web Applications and Why?
There are many entities that require applications for the Web-one example would be Business-to-Business interaction. Many companies in the world today demand to do business with each other over secure and private networks. This process is becoming increasingly popular with a lot of overseas companies who outsource projects to each other. From the simple process of transferring funds into a bank account, to deploying a large scale Web services network that updates pricing information globally, the adoption of a Web applications infrastructure is vital for many businesses.
The city beautiful is fast becoming a highly attractive sourcing destination for companies looking for business process outsourcing, offshore software engineering and contract manufacturing service.
According to Amit Dua, who runs a web development company ‘Signity Solutions’, Chandigarh is the employment node for the entire northern region, known for its entrepreneurial skills and perseverance, qualities that are targeted by companies of the new economy. Many professionals who migrated to other parts of the country or the globe are now aspiring to come back to this region due to the growth potential available here.
Moreover, in this present day, even a small entrepreneur probably has a presence on the Internet and increasing the business.
“Unlike your company's office that may be open from 8-5, Monday to Friday, your company’s website is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. There are many different time zones that may affect your business, which is why being on the web makes it time convenient for everyone, but still firms hesitate in building company’s own website”, says Priyanka Sachdeva, a web designer.
Although, there are a lot many benefits of having a web presence, but millions of companies continue to snub the Web — potentially limiting their growth and that of e-commerce and the economy , but now, the companies are realising that a Web site is just one of several ways to reach customers — not the only path to fast growth, that is reaching out to the prospective customers in just one go.
However, certain businesses have launched and some are on the verge of launching their own Web sites that allow customers to place orders and pay online, making not only a convenient mode but also helps in increasing company sales and presence.
It’s never too late; still a small step can do big. Come forward, and LET US SERVE YOU …
St.Stephen's
School gardens can be a powerful tool to improve the quality of nutrition and education of a child. Not only the children learn how to grow healthy food but also how to use it for better nutrition.
Beyond this, school gardens also serve for environmental education and for personal and social development by adding a practical dimension to these subjects. They may also reinforce basic academic skills like reading, writing, biology and arithmetic. A beautiful garden and a class education, nothing beyond you can ask for your kid.
A similar Environment prevails in one of the most reputed schools within the tricity, the ever growing St.Stephen’s School.
St. Stephen’s has won many laurels and in recent times the St. Stephen’s Football academy won the under 15 Manchester United Premier Football league in Goa defeating professional clubs of India thus becoming the undisputed Champions of India; no mean feat for a school club and now will represent India at Kuala Lumpur in June 2008.
St. Stephen’s truly exemplifies the glorious achievements by way of its ambassadors who have shone bright on the National and International arena - to mention a few - Abhinav Bindra, an Olympian, an Arjuna Awardee and Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna recipient - Mohammed Tanveer, a National Champion in Carrom - Jaideep Taluja, represented India in Seoul in Football - Raghu Mahajan who topped AIEEE, IIT JEE, and was second in ICSE all over India - that lays testimony to the honest fact that theirs is a story of inspiration from a mentor indeed besides this, St. Stephen’s School has won the “Best Garden” Award in Chandigarh in the school category three times in a row.
This aptly summarises Mr. Harold Carver’s absolute devotion to the cause of environmental issues. The school showcases a beautiful Japanese styled garden that can easily be compared to the very best in Chandigarh; arguably the best planned city in India. The school building has been designed with every minute detail being taken into consideration that pertains to the classrooms, laboratories, staff rooms and a latest state-of-the-art air conditioned auditorium. The auditorium is equipped to stage many a stellar performance, and each aspect has undergone careful thought in presenting only the very best a school can offer “Perfection in quality”.
Replete with lush bamboo, ferns, herbs and a queen-size lounger are nestled in a Japanese-style, with features more than 10 varieties of flowering shrubs, ferns and herbs cascading down his wall.
The rich green carpet along with a mix of carefully planned blossoms, creepers, seasonal and ever-green plantations gives a soothing to every eye. The entrance is framed with a vivid Bignonia Venesta, the porch is resplendent with palms and the serenity of pathways is dotted with larkspurs, stalks, dahlias, salvias and anteherinums. The little landscape is complete with pansies, orchids and cactus.
St. Stephen’s school has been synonymous with ideals, which are pillars of education, namely discipline and integrity. There is a unique exuberance amongst the students and the teachers as they assemble for morning prayers in the huge quadrangular area of this magnificently built school. The prayers are said and all students and staff stand silently as if waiting for what might be essential to their day’s working.
Turning dreams into reality, Mr.Carver explains how St. Stephen’s School was initiated in 7 very small rooms in a residential area and now the School stands proud in a campus that has infrastructural facilities comparable to the very best in terms of global standards.
“In 1979 my father who was ill at that time, called me in one day to discuss what he considered was important. During the course of the conversation, I understood my father’s dream of opening a school. Taken aback by this sudden expression of my father’s dream, I simply told him that I was confident of being a good teacher but had my own doubts over my capabilities of being an administrator. In other words, I did not want to take the risk. That was when my father said, “You don’t know. I know. I have nurtured you as a son. So I know your capabilities as a son.” These words of inspiration grew to be a guiding factor all my life thereafter. Soon after my father passed away, it was my mother who urged me to define my father’s dream into a reality. By the time my mother returned from England, bookings for St. Stephen’s had begun. The school which then had begun in a residential area with students from various strata of the society”, he adds.
In 1991, the school shifted to a 4 acre site in the southern sector of the city. The grand plans were however put a spanner into by a group of people in the management with vested interests. The group wanted to take over the school and turn it into a commercial institution compromising on the student friendly and educative ambience the school was now famous for. What followed then proved beyond doubt the love of the students, teachers and parents for Mr. Carver. For the first time probably in India students and staff struck work and declared a strike to ensure that Mr. Carver would not step down. On October 1, 1993, the day celebrated even today as Thanksgiving Day by all the students and teachers; Mr. Carver was reinstated as the rightful principal of St. Stephen’s School, Chandigarh.
An enigmatic personality at times, Mr. Harold Carver has ushered in many a novelty in the field of education that spans a period of over 43 years
St. Stephen’s is but incomplete if Mr Carver is not sighted in every nook and cranny of the school, be it the auditorium, classroom, garden, laboratory, sports field or even the toilets to say the least, that reflects a very strict disciplinarian. The staff and students are very aware of the high expectations in all issues relating to punctuality, dress code, campus behaviour, protocol where upholding the traditions of St. Stephen’s is crucial. This is also evident in the concept in School wherein the closing of class periods is not indicated by the ringing of the bell, but by the watches worn on the wrist; for every minute counts. Aptly put by Mr. Carver “Time is no mans slave, but master of all”.
The experiences of all the trials and tribulations in establishing St. Stephen’s School with a difference, has only been achieved with the determination and grit that overcame all adversity with a simple saying, “Never give up, try again”. One can only better oneself with perseverance and it is this belief coupled with inspiration that made Mr. Carver the legendary educationist that he is. His inherent traits of Leadership blended with a steel resolve to achieve the very best in providing a holistic, child oriented and an all round development of personality for children is very much evident in the par excellence of performances in his School. Be it in academics, literary activities, cultural activities and sports, St Stephen’s very much lives up to its Mentor, Confidante and Guide Mr. Harold Carver. His motto Semper Sursum-meaning ‘always aim higher’ has found its true reflection in the School and all in it.
Beyond this, school gardens also serve for environmental education and for personal and social development by adding a practical dimension to these subjects. They may also reinforce basic academic skills like reading, writing, biology and arithmetic. A beautiful garden and a class education, nothing beyond you can ask for your kid.
A similar Environment prevails in one of the most reputed schools within the tricity, the ever growing St.Stephen’s School.
St. Stephen’s has won many laurels and in recent times the St. Stephen’s Football academy won the under 15 Manchester United Premier Football league in Goa defeating professional clubs of India thus becoming the undisputed Champions of India; no mean feat for a school club and now will represent India at Kuala Lumpur in June 2008.
St. Stephen’s truly exemplifies the glorious achievements by way of its ambassadors who have shone bright on the National and International arena - to mention a few - Abhinav Bindra, an Olympian, an Arjuna Awardee and Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna recipient - Mohammed Tanveer, a National Champion in Carrom - Jaideep Taluja, represented India in Seoul in Football - Raghu Mahajan who topped AIEEE, IIT JEE, and was second in ICSE all over India - that lays testimony to the honest fact that theirs is a story of inspiration from a mentor indeed besides this, St. Stephen’s School has won the “Best Garden” Award in Chandigarh in the school category three times in a row.
This aptly summarises Mr. Harold Carver’s absolute devotion to the cause of environmental issues. The school showcases a beautiful Japanese styled garden that can easily be compared to the very best in Chandigarh; arguably the best planned city in India. The school building has been designed with every minute detail being taken into consideration that pertains to the classrooms, laboratories, staff rooms and a latest state-of-the-art air conditioned auditorium. The auditorium is equipped to stage many a stellar performance, and each aspect has undergone careful thought in presenting only the very best a school can offer “Perfection in quality”.
Replete with lush bamboo, ferns, herbs and a queen-size lounger are nestled in a Japanese-style, with features more than 10 varieties of flowering shrubs, ferns and herbs cascading down his wall.
The rich green carpet along with a mix of carefully planned blossoms, creepers, seasonal and ever-green plantations gives a soothing to every eye. The entrance is framed with a vivid Bignonia Venesta, the porch is resplendent with palms and the serenity of pathways is dotted with larkspurs, stalks, dahlias, salvias and anteherinums. The little landscape is complete with pansies, orchids and cactus.
St. Stephen’s school has been synonymous with ideals, which are pillars of education, namely discipline and integrity. There is a unique exuberance amongst the students and the teachers as they assemble for morning prayers in the huge quadrangular area of this magnificently built school. The prayers are said and all students and staff stand silently as if waiting for what might be essential to their day’s working.
Turning dreams into reality, Mr.Carver explains how St. Stephen’s School was initiated in 7 very small rooms in a residential area and now the School stands proud in a campus that has infrastructural facilities comparable to the very best in terms of global standards.
“In 1979 my father who was ill at that time, called me in one day to discuss what he considered was important. During the course of the conversation, I understood my father’s dream of opening a school. Taken aback by this sudden expression of my father’s dream, I simply told him that I was confident of being a good teacher but had my own doubts over my capabilities of being an administrator. In other words, I did not want to take the risk. That was when my father said, “You don’t know. I know. I have nurtured you as a son. So I know your capabilities as a son.” These words of inspiration grew to be a guiding factor all my life thereafter. Soon after my father passed away, it was my mother who urged me to define my father’s dream into a reality. By the time my mother returned from England, bookings for St. Stephen’s had begun. The school which then had begun in a residential area with students from various strata of the society”, he adds.
In 1991, the school shifted to a 4 acre site in the southern sector of the city. The grand plans were however put a spanner into by a group of people in the management with vested interests. The group wanted to take over the school and turn it into a commercial institution compromising on the student friendly and educative ambience the school was now famous for. What followed then proved beyond doubt the love of the students, teachers and parents for Mr. Carver. For the first time probably in India students and staff struck work and declared a strike to ensure that Mr. Carver would not step down. On October 1, 1993, the day celebrated even today as Thanksgiving Day by all the students and teachers; Mr. Carver was reinstated as the rightful principal of St. Stephen’s School, Chandigarh.
An enigmatic personality at times, Mr. Harold Carver has ushered in many a novelty in the field of education that spans a period of over 43 years
St. Stephen’s is but incomplete if Mr Carver is not sighted in every nook and cranny of the school, be it the auditorium, classroom, garden, laboratory, sports field or even the toilets to say the least, that reflects a very strict disciplinarian. The staff and students are very aware of the high expectations in all issues relating to punctuality, dress code, campus behaviour, protocol where upholding the traditions of St. Stephen’s is crucial. This is also evident in the concept in School wherein the closing of class periods is not indicated by the ringing of the bell, but by the watches worn on the wrist; for every minute counts. Aptly put by Mr. Carver “Time is no mans slave, but master of all”.
The experiences of all the trials and tribulations in establishing St. Stephen’s School with a difference, has only been achieved with the determination and grit that overcame all adversity with a simple saying, “Never give up, try again”. One can only better oneself with perseverance and it is this belief coupled with inspiration that made Mr. Carver the legendary educationist that he is. His inherent traits of Leadership blended with a steel resolve to achieve the very best in providing a holistic, child oriented and an all round development of personality for children is very much evident in the par excellence of performances in his School. Be it in academics, literary activities, cultural activities and sports, St Stephen’s very much lives up to its Mentor, Confidante and Guide Mr. Harold Carver. His motto Semper Sursum-meaning ‘always aim higher’ has found its true reflection in the School and all in it.
Next Birth: Of course a cricketer says Yograj
Cricket was an ambition, which was not fulfilled, but in case the almighty gives me a rebirth, I would want to be a world class cricketer, says Yograj Singh, a name which needs no introduction.
Yograj Singh, popularly known as Yograj, is a pillar of the Punjabi film industry and was also a former member of the India Cricket Team.
Cricketer turned actor has played one Test and six ODIs for India as a right-arm fast-medium bowler, he lately entered Punjwood, Punjabi film industry, which the man himself calls his two professions.
As a cricketer, Yograj made his first-class debut in the 1976-1977 seasons and played for a Combined Universities team against the English cricket team (MCC). Yograj made into the Indian team on the 1980 ODI tour to Australia for the Benson and Hedges World Series, which involved Australia and New Zealand. He had a modest record, taking four wickets in total at an average of 46.5 with his best figures being 2/44 on debut against New Zealand at the Gabba, which gave him a berth in the Indian team that was touring New Zealand in 1980-81 seasons.
However, his passion didn’t go for long. His cricketing career soon came to an end due to an injury that affected his eye and Yograj got retired from first-class cricket in 1985.
He started his career as a cricketer, but lately went into. It is a very sad story and Yograj still feel bad about it. He had an injury while playing and because of that he was forced to retire from international cricket. However, cricket still is his first love. “I eat, sleep and dream cricket. I run a cricket academy in Chandigarh and that is why I spend two weeks in a month there. Life without cricket is not possible for me”.
After his retirement from cricket he became an actor, appearing primarily in Punjabi films. He has appeared in about 150 films. He is best known as a villain for his performance in “Badla Jatti Da”. His son Yuvraj Singh is a current member of the Indian cricket team.
Explaining how his passion for playing cricket for his country ended due to an inquiry, Yograj full of emotions said, “Cricket is precious possessions, but somehow somebody snatched my right to play for the country. I have only bad memories of the only Test I ever played. I was fielding at fine leg when the ball flew to me. I tripped over a slight bump near the boundary and the ball hit my left eye. Within five minutes I was bowling with one eye.
On the third day I tore my neck muscles while was exercising , following I was hospitalized. All I played was a day-and-a-half in that Test match. After that they chucked me out of the team, then the state side, and that was the end of my career.
Then God gave me a son in 1981. When he was one year old I thought I would take my revenge. My son is a very talented kid; he was very good at every sport he played, be it skating or tennis.
One day I told him, 'Son, how do you want me to live in this world with the same face if you don't complete my dream? I want you to play cricket for the country and complete my unfulfilled dream.'
Yuvraj realised what I meant. The whole house was changed. I built nets in the backyard, laid a cement pitch, and installed lights. I bought him a new bat every day. There are about 200 bats lying in the house and tons of gloves. I got plastic balls, with which current cricketers practice now, for him.
And then began his training -- six hours on the ground and four hours at home in the nights. People said I had gone mad. They said I was inhuman with my son. I was harsh with him, but not inhuman. But I did not want to miss the train a second time in my life. Yuvraj realised my agony; felt my pain. He knew I was rewriting my destiny through him.
On asking, if Yuvraj is taking the place of David and is turning out to be the next dependable for the India Team, Yograj said, “ I Don’t compare my son with anyone. My son will be a world champion and I breathe through my son. The time, when Yuvraj will retire, people would then remember the talent that my son has. His excellence is still to come”.
Yograj, an emotional feels sad , as people and the young generation are getting away from their traditions, their customs. “Love for a people is fading, infact it is seen nowhere. I feel sad, when I seen people copying the delicacy”, says, the giant Yograj.
Cricketer, then an actor and now Yograj is into Hindi serials. “ I have acted in more than 150 films in Punjab and wanted to do something with Hindi serials. Though I have done a Hindi film with Jeetendra and Rekha called Insaaf Ki Devi earlier, I have never acted in a Hindi serial. So when Deepti Bhatnagar (producer of the serial) personally requested me to do Mohe Rang De there was no way I could refuse. The role I am playing in the serial is also very significant and close to my real self. And last but not the least, Deepti’s in laws are very close friends of mine, so that made me more inclined towards this serial”, he asserted.
Is it true that your younger son Zorawar is entering Bollywood? Yes. I don’t want Yuvraj to venture into acting before he retires from cricket. But I want Zorawar to make a mark in the film industry and as such he is currently undergoing a training course at Kishore Namit Kapoor’s acting school. My life is a mix of cricket and acting — I want my sons to become great cricketers and actors.
His life is full of events and he is a busy man. “I am keeping extremely busy with a couple of films and Mohe Rang De. God has given me a new life with these opportunities. At my age, I have completed my responsibilities as a son, wife and father and now I am doing what my hearts wants me to”, opined Yograj.
Yograj Singh, popularly known as Yograj, is a pillar of the Punjabi film industry and was also a former member of the India Cricket Team.
Cricketer turned actor has played one Test and six ODIs for India as a right-arm fast-medium bowler, he lately entered Punjwood, Punjabi film industry, which the man himself calls his two professions.
As a cricketer, Yograj made his first-class debut in the 1976-1977 seasons and played for a Combined Universities team against the English cricket team (MCC). Yograj made into the Indian team on the 1980 ODI tour to Australia for the Benson and Hedges World Series, which involved Australia and New Zealand. He had a modest record, taking four wickets in total at an average of 46.5 with his best figures being 2/44 on debut against New Zealand at the Gabba, which gave him a berth in the Indian team that was touring New Zealand in 1980-81 seasons.
However, his passion didn’t go for long. His cricketing career soon came to an end due to an injury that affected his eye and Yograj got retired from first-class cricket in 1985.
He started his career as a cricketer, but lately went into. It is a very sad story and Yograj still feel bad about it. He had an injury while playing and because of that he was forced to retire from international cricket. However, cricket still is his first love. “I eat, sleep and dream cricket. I run a cricket academy in Chandigarh and that is why I spend two weeks in a month there. Life without cricket is not possible for me”.
After his retirement from cricket he became an actor, appearing primarily in Punjabi films. He has appeared in about 150 films. He is best known as a villain for his performance in “Badla Jatti Da”. His son Yuvraj Singh is a current member of the Indian cricket team.
Explaining how his passion for playing cricket for his country ended due to an inquiry, Yograj full of emotions said, “Cricket is precious possessions, but somehow somebody snatched my right to play for the country. I have only bad memories of the only Test I ever played. I was fielding at fine leg when the ball flew to me. I tripped over a slight bump near the boundary and the ball hit my left eye. Within five minutes I was bowling with one eye.
On the third day I tore my neck muscles while was exercising , following I was hospitalized. All I played was a day-and-a-half in that Test match. After that they chucked me out of the team, then the state side, and that was the end of my career.
Then God gave me a son in 1981. When he was one year old I thought I would take my revenge. My son is a very talented kid; he was very good at every sport he played, be it skating or tennis.
One day I told him, 'Son, how do you want me to live in this world with the same face if you don't complete my dream? I want you to play cricket for the country and complete my unfulfilled dream.'
Yuvraj realised what I meant. The whole house was changed. I built nets in the backyard, laid a cement pitch, and installed lights. I bought him a new bat every day. There are about 200 bats lying in the house and tons of gloves. I got plastic balls, with which current cricketers practice now, for him.
And then began his training -- six hours on the ground and four hours at home in the nights. People said I had gone mad. They said I was inhuman with my son. I was harsh with him, but not inhuman. But I did not want to miss the train a second time in my life. Yuvraj realised my agony; felt my pain. He knew I was rewriting my destiny through him.
On asking, if Yuvraj is taking the place of David and is turning out to be the next dependable for the India Team, Yograj said, “ I Don’t compare my son with anyone. My son will be a world champion and I breathe through my son. The time, when Yuvraj will retire, people would then remember the talent that my son has. His excellence is still to come”.
Yograj, an emotional feels sad , as people and the young generation are getting away from their traditions, their customs. “Love for a people is fading, infact it is seen nowhere. I feel sad, when I seen people copying the delicacy”, says, the giant Yograj.
Cricketer, then an actor and now Yograj is into Hindi serials. “ I have acted in more than 150 films in Punjab and wanted to do something with Hindi serials. Though I have done a Hindi film with Jeetendra and Rekha called Insaaf Ki Devi earlier, I have never acted in a Hindi serial. So when Deepti Bhatnagar (producer of the serial) personally requested me to do Mohe Rang De there was no way I could refuse. The role I am playing in the serial is also very significant and close to my real self. And last but not the least, Deepti’s in laws are very close friends of mine, so that made me more inclined towards this serial”, he asserted.
Is it true that your younger son Zorawar is entering Bollywood? Yes. I don’t want Yuvraj to venture into acting before he retires from cricket. But I want Zorawar to make a mark in the film industry and as such he is currently undergoing a training course at Kishore Namit Kapoor’s acting school. My life is a mix of cricket and acting — I want my sons to become great cricketers and actors.
His life is full of events and he is a busy man. “I am keeping extremely busy with a couple of films and Mohe Rang De. God has given me a new life with these opportunities. At my age, I have completed my responsibilities as a son, wife and father and now I am doing what my hearts wants me to”, opined Yograj.
From roadside “milam” to popular discotheque
Chandigarh is no more a city of retired and tired people. The city which used to wear a dead look after 8.30 pm, some years ago, is finally discovering its late night identity.
It was in 1991 that the cable TV invaded homes of peace-loving people. Many serials and programmes for youth began. Hence, started the introduction of disco and late night parties.
The first discotheque to open in the city was Las Vegas in 1996. But it was not considered a respectable idea for women to socialise at disco parties. Now, with more than 2 dozen discotheques, the presence of the female gender is more than the male.
Lovers meeting points were fetes in schools and colleges or roadside’ milan’. But with introduction of discotheques and the pub culture things began changing. Voodoo, Score are some of the places, which the youngsters does not want to miss.
Now attending late night parties for women are no big deal. Not only youngsters but many middle-aged persons revel in the bright glare of disco parties. A lot of middle-class parents are allowing their daughters to enjoy this new found freedom.
The serene city is waking up to the glitz of night life. Psychedelic lights, rocking music, fine blends, rings of cigarette smoke and sipping of beer and dancing on the floor till the wee hours packs enough passion in the late night parties.
People forget their busy schedules and shake a leg to dissolve stress with DJ playing the musical numbers. Now the trend of theme parties is also in. For the youngsters it was a much needed change. The white foam surcharged the mood and the crowd danced with gay abandon. They didn’t mind getting drenched. The foamy liquid seemed to wash away their worries.
Ramandeep, a college student says, “I have just completed my graduation and want to pursue career in modelling. I think that more and more girls should join in. These kind of parties can change the narrow attitude of people too”.
Ashish Chaudhary, a businessman too has his own view point, and considers this upcoming trend the only way to freak out. “ I am basically a party animal. I like to dance at a party to unwind myself. This is the only way to enjoy and freak out. One wishes that these late night parties spread their wings and change the ambience of the city”, he says.
It was in 1991 that the cable TV invaded homes of peace-loving people. Many serials and programmes for youth began. Hence, started the introduction of disco and late night parties.
The first discotheque to open in the city was Las Vegas in 1996. But it was not considered a respectable idea for women to socialise at disco parties. Now, with more than 2 dozen discotheques, the presence of the female gender is more than the male.
Lovers meeting points were fetes in schools and colleges or roadside’ milan’. But with introduction of discotheques and the pub culture things began changing. Voodoo, Score are some of the places, which the youngsters does not want to miss.
Now attending late night parties for women are no big deal. Not only youngsters but many middle-aged persons revel in the bright glare of disco parties. A lot of middle-class parents are allowing their daughters to enjoy this new found freedom.
The serene city is waking up to the glitz of night life. Psychedelic lights, rocking music, fine blends, rings of cigarette smoke and sipping of beer and dancing on the floor till the wee hours packs enough passion in the late night parties.
People forget their busy schedules and shake a leg to dissolve stress with DJ playing the musical numbers. Now the trend of theme parties is also in. For the youngsters it was a much needed change. The white foam surcharged the mood and the crowd danced with gay abandon. They didn’t mind getting drenched. The foamy liquid seemed to wash away their worries.
Ramandeep, a college student says, “I have just completed my graduation and want to pursue career in modelling. I think that more and more girls should join in. These kind of parties can change the narrow attitude of people too”.
Ashish Chaudhary, a businessman too has his own view point, and considers this upcoming trend the only way to freak out. “ I am basically a party animal. I like to dance at a party to unwind myself. This is the only way to enjoy and freak out. One wishes that these late night parties spread their wings and change the ambience of the city”, he says.
PIK n MOVE
Recession has hit salaries, expenditure and also has affected the spending capacity of an individual or a family. Be it an Auto Industry or an Education Industry, recession has effected all. But one industry, which is least affected is the food industry.
As the average restaurant meal costs almost three times more than a home-cooked meal it was expected that in times of financial concern the public may shy away from restaurants. An economic slowdown or even a dreaded recession, however, is not usually as damaging to restaurants as one might think.
But the figures of restaurant visitors indicate that during a recession the number of restaurant visitors can still increase; indicating that convenience, the enjoyment of a good night out and higher quality food may override the hip-pocket-nerve.
Though, there has been a plethora of changes happening all around, but one thing which has proudly remained constant is the city’s quality of life and quality of food. The eating trends and habits among the people living in the tri city have always remained high, thus opening a wider option for the expansion of the food industry.
One such restaurant, which is not only a unique place but is also a junction that has gained a lot of popularity among its customers over the years. PIK-N-MOVE in Sector 8 was established in 1978 with a single minded objective of delivering the unsurpassed quality of exotic cuisine to its patrons.
31 years have gone since then and the quality not in piecemeal, but all across has remained stable, the way it was, when the restaurant began its services. Be it the fresh chicken or preparing its own home-grounded fresh spices, hygienic food and services are the top most priority of Mr.Sibia, the owner of Pik n Move.
They have the quality, the taste, which is second to none and truly belongs to the region; one does not need to wonder much as to why their customers have been coming to Pik n Move for over 30 years.
Though, the initial concept was to serve just the starters such as soups and snacks, but now Pik n Move has everything that one wish to choose from over 40 main dishes, starting from the so popular spicy Tandoori Chicken, to the soft and succulent Malai Chicken Tikka, the luscious Chicken Keema Nan and the quintessential Butter Chicken.
The mini meals are most preferred by the customers, which includes Butter Chicken/ Masala Chicken/ Chilli Chicken with naan for Rs 95. There is no particular speciality with the Pik n Move, as the customers are in habit so taste all that the restaurant has. The popular Chicken Keema Mushrooms (Rs-150), Chicken Seekh Kabab Gravy ( Rs 170), Chicken Kathi Kabab ( Rs 90), the chicken Tikka Tandoori ( Rs 150) and the Malai Chicken Tikka Tandoori ( Rs 150 ) are some of the hot picks of their customers.
Pik n Move is probably the only restaurant in the city that serves only chicken based non-vegetarian delights. “This is primarily to drive home the point of quality and when we say chicken, we mean chicken. Not like a lot others which take short cuts to profits at their patrons’ behest and serve mutton disguised as chicken”, says Sabia.
Be it the Amritsari naan or the favourite Chicken Naan with gravy, Pik n Move has a whole lot of exotic dishes to serve.
The Pik n Move has not only gathered the loyalty of their customers, but has maintained the standards. They have customers all over the tri city, which even includes Zirakpur, Kharar and surroundings.
“We, along with the city beautiful has come a long way together and the grace of our patrons’ the journey continues. It is the same trust and belief of giving the best, all the time, all year round”, adds Sibia.
So next time you are in town and wish to try some exotic non vegetarian dishes, pay a visit and your taste buds shall be treated to the finest culinary experience the city has to offer at Pik n Move.
As the average restaurant meal costs almost three times more than a home-cooked meal it was expected that in times of financial concern the public may shy away from restaurants. An economic slowdown or even a dreaded recession, however, is not usually as damaging to restaurants as one might think.
But the figures of restaurant visitors indicate that during a recession the number of restaurant visitors can still increase; indicating that convenience, the enjoyment of a good night out and higher quality food may override the hip-pocket-nerve.
Though, there has been a plethora of changes happening all around, but one thing which has proudly remained constant is the city’s quality of life and quality of food. The eating trends and habits among the people living in the tri city have always remained high, thus opening a wider option for the expansion of the food industry.
One such restaurant, which is not only a unique place but is also a junction that has gained a lot of popularity among its customers over the years. PIK-N-MOVE in Sector 8 was established in 1978 with a single minded objective of delivering the unsurpassed quality of exotic cuisine to its patrons.
31 years have gone since then and the quality not in piecemeal, but all across has remained stable, the way it was, when the restaurant began its services. Be it the fresh chicken or preparing its own home-grounded fresh spices, hygienic food and services are the top most priority of Mr.Sibia, the owner of Pik n Move.
They have the quality, the taste, which is second to none and truly belongs to the region; one does not need to wonder much as to why their customers have been coming to Pik n Move for over 30 years.
Though, the initial concept was to serve just the starters such as soups and snacks, but now Pik n Move has everything that one wish to choose from over 40 main dishes, starting from the so popular spicy Tandoori Chicken, to the soft and succulent Malai Chicken Tikka, the luscious Chicken Keema Nan and the quintessential Butter Chicken.
The mini meals are most preferred by the customers, which includes Butter Chicken/ Masala Chicken/ Chilli Chicken with naan for Rs 95. There is no particular speciality with the Pik n Move, as the customers are in habit so taste all that the restaurant has. The popular Chicken Keema Mushrooms (Rs-150), Chicken Seekh Kabab Gravy ( Rs 170), Chicken Kathi Kabab ( Rs 90), the chicken Tikka Tandoori ( Rs 150) and the Malai Chicken Tikka Tandoori ( Rs 150 ) are some of the hot picks of their customers.
Pik n Move is probably the only restaurant in the city that serves only chicken based non-vegetarian delights. “This is primarily to drive home the point of quality and when we say chicken, we mean chicken. Not like a lot others which take short cuts to profits at their patrons’ behest and serve mutton disguised as chicken”, says Sabia.
Be it the Amritsari naan or the favourite Chicken Naan with gravy, Pik n Move has a whole lot of exotic dishes to serve.
The Pik n Move has not only gathered the loyalty of their customers, but has maintained the standards. They have customers all over the tri city, which even includes Zirakpur, Kharar and surroundings.
“We, along with the city beautiful has come a long way together and the grace of our patrons’ the journey continues. It is the same trust and belief of giving the best, all the time, all year round”, adds Sibia.
So next time you are in town and wish to try some exotic non vegetarian dishes, pay a visit and your taste buds shall be treated to the finest culinary experience the city has to offer at Pik n Move.
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