FunAsia Desipages Nov 2019

November is the month of thanking. As the Group CEO I would jump into this opportunity to thank each one of you who consumes your share of entertainment through us. We are so gratified because of that. My vision for FunAsia was a quality entertainment in Radio, Theater, Events and Magazine. I feel fortunate to see my vision taking shape. We have come a long way since we acquired FunAsia in August 2017. We have invested heavily in technology on radio, website and app. We have upgraded our movie theaters, food, magazine and made careful choices to improve the quality of our events and deliver you the best. Our team is working very hard to bring the best products for your ultimate experience.

We are very thankful for your love and support towards our vision of Bringing the Community Together.

These festivity times we do go an extra mile to make it special.

Moreover, we also want to instill our culture and traditions in our kids who are the first-generation American born and away from our country. For us many things came naturally growing up in the culture.

We still remember how our homes smelled of all the goodies and sweets that were prepared at this time, the way we decorated our homes, wore new clothes and took blessings from elders and met family and friends. We try to do these here as well, but sometimes cut short the traditions due to lack of time. However, I feel that we should drive ourselves to follow our traditions, as intuitively our kids do pick up a lot from us which goes a long way into forming their memories. November is the month of pumpkins, the color of fall, baking and thanking. We at FunAsia thank you all for always supporting us.

PerfectTax team is my baby. We started it from home with just three members in the team. Now we are an organization with a huge office.

Again this journey could not be possible without my team. Diwas has been a very integral part of the growth of Perfect Tax. He and I have worked together for 10 years and successfully taken our organization to new heights. For the past 4 years, we have been independently managing the Tax Department and have achieved phenomenal growth. He is a great leader and very patient. He is an achiever.

Together, we have created a corporate ladder that provides opportunity for each employee to grow. No matter how hectic our schedule is, we take out a few minutes to crack jokes and always stay optimistic for our department to reach to greater heights. Proud of Diwas!

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 4

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 5

Book your party at the RHCP BANQUET HALL (25 to 150 guests)

PRICES START AT JUST $12 (LUNCH) & $15 (DINNER)

469.362.6555

#(% #% % # " !#% #' * ' ", #' % # % (&' $% & "' #($#" # ' #$ & +$ % &

" #($#" $ % ) & '

& $ ! $" '%& # $ # $%"! $$ "'%- ## & #' ) #" ! "( ' !& " #' * ' ", #' % # % (&' $% & "' #($#" # ' #$ & +$ % &

" #($#" $ % ) & '

* "$ $ ( * $ % " ) %

"$

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 6

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 7

BOLLYWOOD talkies S

SHILPA

hahid revealed how he hated the fact that people thought he was ‘just a pretty face’ when he started off.

“I used to hate that people thought I was just a pretty face. In my heart, There’s a perception that in order to be a hero, you need to look a certain way.

That you have to be good looking. And I fit into that category,” said Shahid at the conclave.

Shahid, however, always saw himself as an actor. He further added, “ I was always a good actor. I wanted to change the game. I wanted to

S

hilpa Shetty is all set to sizzle on the silver screen, with a pivotal role in Sabbir Khan’s much-awaited action entertainer ‘Nikamma’, starring Abhimanyu Dassani and Shirley Setia.

The entire team is ecstatic to have her back on the sets, and while it is still too early to describe her role in detail, a source within the team reveals that this is one of the most intriguing characters she has played in her career. Shilpa spoke to us on wanting to be back to the hustle and bustle of a film set, “It feels great, I am ready to take that plunge again and looking forward to being back on the big screen. It’s a refreshingly unique project and I am looking forward to working with Sabbir. I loved my role, and it’s something I’ve never done before...I can’t wait for my audiences to see me in a new avatar! “Director Sabbir Khan says, “Shilpa is a muchloved name in every household and she was very clear right at the onset that her comeback would have to be with a worthy role. It’s a dynamic part and I am glad to be working with Shilpa and bringing her back for the fans that miss her.”

NIKAMMA is jointly produced by Sony Pictures International Productions and Sabbir Khan Films and is scheduled to release in the summer of 2020!

DesiPages

SHAHID express. I wanted to give the audience something that they will remember.

And I wanted to do that with my acting, not thanks to a pretty face. I wanted to do something that people are not expecting of me.”

Despite big hits in films like Kaminey, Udta Punjab, Haider, and the likes, which saw him get into the grey zone and away from the quintessential Hindi film hero image, Shahid has always been referred to as the ‘chocolate boy.’

Over the years, however, with strong character-driven roles and outstanding performances, Shahid has fought that stereotype and carved a niche for himself. And with Kabir Singh’s massive success, he has proved once again what he is capable of.

D

isha Patani won hearts with her debut in ‘M. S. Dhoni’ and ever since, her fan base has just been increased by the day.

Recently, she opened up about her journey in the industry on her post where she said, “People have been kind and accepting of me. If people don’t like you, it has got nothing to do with you not being a star kid. If you are talented and hard-working, people accept you. It doesn’t matter where you are from. (Actor) Shah Rukh Khan was a nobody when he came to this business and look at him today.”

After her debut, Disha did films like ‘Baaghi 2’ and ‘Bharat’, all of which ruled at the box office and she was highly appreciated for her characters as well.

The actress even started her own YouTube channel where she shares her daily routine with her huge fan base.

She was last seen in ‘Bharat’ and will next be seen in ‘Malang’ which is being filmed by Mohit Suri and produced by T-Series with Luv Ranjan and Ankur Garg. The movie will be hitting the screens on February 14, 2020.

DISHA

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 8

ROSENTHAL & WADAS C R I M I N A L L AW

Vanita Budhrani Parker Criminal Defense Attorney

• 1st generation Indian American • Former Dallas County Prosecutor • Misdemeanors to Capital Murder Cases • Specialize in Representing Clients with Mental Illness

972-369-0577 Legal emergency calls answered 24/7 4500 W. Eldorado Pkwy | Ste. 3000 | McKinney, TX

RWLawyers.org

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 9

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 10

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 11

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 12

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 13

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 14

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 15

BOLLYWOOD MASALA HA

RTH M

A

L

G

H

S

ID

OT

RA

Bollywood star Alia Bhatt, who always comes across as a happy-go-lucky person, says it is not easy staying in a positive frame of mind all the time but she wants to share love and happiness in the world.

“I feel it is not easy to stay positive but I just want to share love and happiness in the world. So, for that reason, I prefer to be super positive, loving and warm, no matter how bad my day is. I try to spread only love and joy in the world. I feel you shouldn’t take yourself too seriously. The only constant thing in life is change and I really believe that”, she said.

The Film Federation of India (FFI) recently announced that it has chosen Zoya Akhtar’s ‘Gully Boy’ as India’s official entry for the Best Foreign Film category at the 92nd Oscar Awards.

Sharing her thoughts on the development, ‘Gully Boy’ heroine Alia said, “I am thankful to all those responsible for choosing ‘Gully Boy’ as the official film to represent India at the Oscars. I hope it gets nominated and I hope it also wins the award.

There are lots of hopes. I feel ‘Gully Boy’ has had a long life even after release in India. It was screened at Indian Film Festival of Melbourne and it won an award there. It was also released in Japan and now this has happened. So, the whole team is ecstatic.”

Alia’s upcoming films are Karan Johar’s ‘Takht’, Ayan Mukherji’s ‘Brahmastra’ and SS Rajamouli’s ‘RRR’.

DesiPages

AU

TA M

I

TT

Actor Sidharth Malhotra was thrilled when action-drama ‘Marjaavaan’ came his way as the film gave him a chance to play a quintessential Hindi film hero for the first time in his career. Directed by Milap Zaveri, the film features Sidharth, Riteish Deshmukh, Tara Sutaria and Rakul Preet Singh.

“Every actor thinks before signing a film what he likes in it, what he wants from it. This film is an ode to all the heroes I have seen in Hindi movies and got inspired by their entry, the shot, the walk, and the action. With this excitement I entered the film,” said Sidharth. The actor said Milap believes in the cinema we all grew up watching which featured a strong hero.

“A hero will enter like a hero, do action and dialogue baazi like a hero. I grew up in this cinema. For the first time in many years, I got a chance to play a hero like this.”

The 34-year-old actor, who was previously seen in the massy-action zone with ‘Ek Villain’, said he was bowled over by Milap’s narration.

“When I heard his narration, his dialogues, that was the first thing which got me excited, that I should do this. I got inspired to become a hero, watching big action heroes saying dialogues. This is the first time in my career that I’m playing a hero and be presented like one, all thanks to Milap and the whole team,” he added.

M

IA BHA

YA

AL

Actress Yami Gautam is all set to play the character of a career-driven woman in her forthcoming film ‘Ginny Weds Sunny’. She drew a few parallels between her role Ginny and that of Ashima, the character she essayed in her debut film, Vicky Donor.

In an interview with a leading tabloid, the actress said that both the characters were strong-minded, independent women who could hold their own. Ginny is brave, not brash; she is strong, not arrogant.

The opinions that these girls have, resonate with her. She understands that in cinema, not every character should be the same. She also agrees that an actor will stop exploring his or her range if they make each character a replica of the other.

Yami will be seen sharing the screen space with Vikrant Massey. In the Puneet Khanna directorial, Ginny turns down a proposal brought in by her mother. It is Massey’s character, Sunny, who, along with the mother, convinces Ginny to tie the knot. Much like her on-screen character, the actress says that she finds the need to be assertive as an artist, as well.

She particularly despises how actors are forced to take a stance on matters that may or may not concern acting.

She says that she is a bit of everything, and she wants to remain the way she has been, without subjecting herself to the demands of what is expected of her.

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 16

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 17

DEEPIKA PADUKONE THE ONLY INDIAN ACTRESS TO FEATURE IN BUSINESS OF FASHION 500 LIST

Actor Deepika Padukone is the only Indian actress to feature in the Business of Fashion list better known as BoF 500. Considered to be the definitive professional index of people shaping the $2.4 trillion fashion industry, it is decided by nominations received from current BoF 500 members, data analysis and research.

Commenting on Deepika, Business Of Fashion shared, “One of the highest-paid actors in Bollywood was featured on the April cover of American Vogue and has become a red carpet mainstay by mixing Parisian haute couture labels with homegrown Indian designers.”

Apart from Deepika, the only Indian who made it to the list is Saitex founder and chief executive Sanjeev Bhal.

Deepika recently put up a stunning appearance at the Paris Fashion Week in a printed maxi dress paired with a brown overcoat and fishnet boots. She also stole the spotlight at the IIFA Awards held last month in a purple feather gown with a long veil.

There were recent media reports suggesting that Shahrukh will be seen in Yash Raj Films’ Dhoom 4.

Another wave of rumor said he set to do a Hindi remake of Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill, yet other unconfirmed reports suggested he is all set to make Don 3.

Others have been saying he is planning a project with Ali Abbas Zafar’s or Rajkumar Hirani.

While Shahrukh says, “I am thinking and taking some time.

I am working on two or three scripts and, Inshallah, as soon as they are ready, I am ready. Because most of the people with whom I am working are busy so, Inshallah, I will announce it myself. I feel until the time rumors are floating around, it’s good because some of them have given me ideas.”

He continued, “There was one film people said that I am going to do -- Tarzan and Jane. So, I really want to do the role of Tarzan (laughs), But no. I think, Inshallah, in another month or two, I will figure out everything.”

1

DesiPages

Deepika was also named one of the 100 most influential people in the world in 2018 by Time magazine.

She also created a huge buzz lately for bagging the first rank under the title of India’s most trusted personality in the female actor category according to the TRA (Trust Research Advisory) list. Her successful career has made her the most sought after celebrities among brands.

Deepika has already wrapped up the shooting of her upcoming films, Chhapaak and ‘83. She plays an acid attack survivor in Chhapaak, based on the life of Laxmi Agarwal.

In 83’, she will be seen sharing the screen space with husband Ranveer Singh for the fourth time. While Ranveer plays veteran cricketer Kapil Dev, Deepika plays his wife Romi Dev in the film.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas is a leading actress, a singer and also a successful producer. But directing a film is something that makes her nervous.

The former beauty queen made her Bollywood debut with The Hero: Love Story of a Spy in 2003 and gave remarkable performances in movies like Aitraaz, Fashion, 7 Khoon Maaf, Barfi! and Mary Kom. As a producer, she has backed movies such as Ventilator, Pahuna: The Little Visitors and her latest offering - The Sky Is Pink.

2

Would she like to direct a movie someday?

The actress said, “It’s something that makes me nervous because it’s a lot of responsibility.

But slowly, I have moved from acting to production and hopefully, I’ll make that (directing films) transition too someday.”

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 18

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 19

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 20

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 21

Hrithik Roshan

Diana Penty

Mouni Roy

Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan has certainly been on a roll this year with his films performing phenomenally at the box office while also receiving critical acclaim from across all quarters. The actor recently gave an interview to a leading portal and opened up about how he chooses films that he wants to work on.

Speaking about his performances and picking up different roles he said, “It’s thrilling for me to experiment, take on challenges and follow my instincts when it comes to picking up projects. So, I want to do everything that excites me, action film or not.” Hrithik certainly has emerged as the game-changer of the year after delivering such stellar performances.

The actor gave two back-to-back hits and garnered much love and appreciation from the audience for being phenomenal in both the films. He had also recently shared a transformation video that pretty much broke the Internet almost as soon as it was put up. Now, that’s how you inspire people!

Actress Diana Penty has revealed she will soon start shooting for her next film, the intense love story ‘Shiddat’.

“This is the first time I am doing an intense love story. I have done rom-com, drama and those kinds of things, so it’s going to be interesting. It has an interesting story.

There is a story within the love story, which is why I decided to do the film,” said Diana.

The film, produced by Dinesh Vijan, will reportedly have two parallel tracks, focusing on the journey of two couples.

While Radhika Madan stars opposite Sunny Kaushal, Diana pairs up with Mohit Raina.

“I am really looking forward to working in ‘Shiddat’ because it’s great to go back to the place where my career started, and to work with Dinu (Dinesh Vijan). I am looking forward to working with Kunal and Mohit because we never worked together before,” said Diana ‘Shiddat’ is scheduled to release in mid2020.

Mouni Roy, who is starring opposite Rajkummar Rao in Made In China, opened up on her role in the movie.

“Made In China is a special piece of my heart... It is special for so many things...

It’s special for the story we are telling, the character that I am playing, the number of things I have learned on the set. It is special,” said Mouni.

In the film, directed by Mikhil Musale, Mouni plays a Gujarati girl named Rukmini.

“It was difficult. What’s the point of doing different films if you don’t get to play different characters? Rukmini is somebody who is like you and me. She is someone who has lived in Mumbai all her life, educated and independent... So, we didn’t have to work on accents but mannerisms that I had to pick up. So, I call it a miniworkshop,” she said.

“I am a typical Bengali and very animated and she is completely not like me... So, it has been an experience,” she said.

Bhumi Pednekar said she craves versatility as an actress. She will be seen in ‘Saand Ki Aankh’, ‘Bala’ and ‘Pati Patni Aur Woh’ in the coming months.

“I crave versatility as an actor and my next three films will showcase my diversity of choosing films. All three are incredible scripts and are films that are close to my heart. Interestingly ‘Saand Ki Aankh’ and ‘Bala’ have an important message that will touch the hearts of audiences because of the social commentary present in the scripts. ‘Pati, Patni Aur Woh’ is a superb script that will stand out,” Bhumi said.

Ever since her debut in 2015 with ‘Dum Laga Ke Haisha’, Bhumi has been seen in films as different as chalk and cheese.

She was seen in movies like ‘Toilet: Ek Prem Katha’, ‘Shubh Mangal Saavdhan’, and ‘Sonchiriya’.

Her next three films once again aim to showcase Bhumi’s versatility. In ‘Saand Ki Aankh’, she plays the world’s oldest sharpshooter Prakashi Tomar. In ‘Bala’, she plays someone who is fiercely proud of how she looks and doesn’t conform to societal obsession for fair skin. In ‘Pati, Patni Aur Woh’, Bhumi will be seen romancing Kartik Aryan in a story that will bring out her fun side. Bhumi said these three films have challenged her as an actor.

“It is an age of good content and these films will take their place among some of the gems that our industry has recently produced. All three roles have challenged me as an actor and pushed me to do better and I certainly hope that audiences will love what I have done because I have given my heart and soul to bring these characters to life,” she added.

DesiPages

Bhumi Pednekar

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 22

All you need to know about Year-End Audits

Year-end brings with it not just excitement and celebrations, but also the responsibility to complete financial audits. Maintaining proper accounting records is a key aspect of any company’s financial reporting. So, here’s a quick guide to help you understand all that you wanted to know about year-end Vaishali Thakkar audits.

CEO Perfect Tax Preparing for a Year-end Audit - A yearend accounting audit is a procedure of & Finance examining a company’s financial situation in its entirety. It’s done to ensure that the company complies with the pertaining laws and accounting standards.

Information collection and retrieval - Every business must collect financial information reliably and store it in a secure manner. This process also helps in resolving any issues or answering any queries of the shareholders or the IRS and helps in judging the financial situation of the business and improving it.

Keep a check on the company’s internal accounting controls With adequate internal accounting controls, protection against theft and fraud is assured. Keep accounting personnel separate, safes locked and accounting systems password protected with restricted access.

Compare records regularly - A beneficial accounting practice is to compare internal records with external records to ensure their credibility.

Create an audit report - Auditing your company’s financial statements should be a regular activity as it helps in ascertaining the profitability of the business and is one of the key requirements of lenders, investors, and creditors.

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 23

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 24

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 25

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 26

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 27

bollywood news this

Month

1

HRITHIK

Hrithik Roshan, who has two backto-back hits - Super 30 and War - to his credit, said he feels encouraged as an artiste and aims to do better work.

The 45-year-old star is receiving rave reviews for his performance in the Yash Raj Films project. He said the success of his previous two movies has motivated him to trust his instincts.

“I was fortunate that I had films I was empowered by. I felt so much love and passion for these two films. From now on, I am going to set my benchmark higher. I felt more encouraged after success. It is an important success for me,” said Hrithik.

“My instincts were very strong and if it would have failed, then I would have been affected. The most important thing for us in creative life is to be able to trust our instincts and if your instincts get reaffirmed and get strengthened, it empowers you a lot,” he said.

The actor added that even though he is happy with the acclaim he has received for Super 30 and War, his “best is yet to come”.

DesiPages

3

VICKY KAUSHAL

VARUN

Actor Varun Dhawan has learned the value of being punctual from his father and director David Dhawan, and said he understands the importance of not wasting time on a shift while shooting for a project.

“In an actor’s life, time holds a lot of value. And in today’s world, time is money and professionalism is very important too. You want people to come on time and respect other people’s time. If I have ever been inspired by anyone’s punctuality then it is my own father’s. My father actually reaches everywhere before time,” Varun said.

“If the shoot call time is 9 to 9, he will reach at 8 and everyone needs to be there by 9. So yeah, I have to always be on time,” he added.

Talking about the shoot of his upcoming film ‘Coolie No. 1’, Varun said: “I think because I’m a director’s son, I understand how important it is to not waste a shift.

So whether it is the set of ‘Street Dancer 3D’ or ‘Coolie No. 1’, I am always trying to be on time and there are a lot of people who are also making sure that I am on time.”

2

Vicky Kaushal is Bollywood’s hot property.

When he’s not winning hearts with his amazing performances, he’s making headlines thanks to his link-up rumors. The latest one that is doing the rounds is that of Vicky Kaushal and Katrina Kaif’s.

“Rumours about me and Katrina Kaif have been going on for months, said Vicky with a chuckle, Soon it will be some other beautiful lady,” said Vicky.

Sharing a personal anecdote about a particular link-up that had made newspaper headlines, the Uri: The Surgical Strike actor said, “I woke up in the morning and there was one link-up story in the newspaper. My mom and dad were sitting at the dining table. They were waiting for me to pick up the newspaper and read it. The moment I opened the newspaper and turned to them, they started laughing and said, ‘Jis pace pe ja raha hai, humein toh bataa de.’ I was like, ‘I too don’t know what is happening.’’”

Those reports, however, were just rumors.

“I told mom and dad that they are just rumors,” the Raazi actor added.

Vicky reportedly broke up with his longterm girlfriend Harleen Sethi only recently, and while the actor strictly maintains that he is completely’ single, he has been linked to Katrina Kaif. The two actors will reportedly be seen together in an upcoming romantic drama, to be produced by Ronnie Screwvala.

When asked about his plans to get married and settle down, the Masaan actor said, “I believe that these things have to happen organically. I don’t want to rush into anything. Marriage is not a movie. It’s not a project. Whenever it happens, it has to happen organically.”

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 28

AL

IA BHA TT

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 29

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 30

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 31

PRIYANKA CHOPRA

RITEISH

1

Riteish Deshmukh will be seen as a vertically challenged man in Milap Zaveri’s next ‘Marjaavaan’ and he said as an actor he is ready to experiment with all kinds of roles which may or not be his personality type. The actiondrama features Riteish as a vertically challenged goon.

When asked why wasn’t a dwarf actor roped in for the character as there is already a lack of representation on screen, Riteish said,” I respect the viewpoint.

As an actor when someone has approached me with a role, my job is only to see whether I’ll be able to pull it off and if the directors and the producers have the confidence whether I’ll be able to do justice to what’s offered to me. As an actor, I’m ready to play anything, be it a vertically challenged person, old person, young or woman also.

I’ve played everything. As an actor I’m open”.

“If Mr. Anpuam Kher, who is such a great actor, hadn’t played a character older than his years in ‘Saaransh’, maybe we wouldn’t have had Anupam Kher ji. Similarly, there are so many great actors who play different roles. Ayushmann in ‘Dream Girl’ played a person who they all think is a girl. I just think that eventually, while everyone deserves a right and should get an opportunity to act and perform, it’s also equally fair that actors get chances to experiment.”

2

DesiPages

Priyanka Chopra said that she has some personal ambitions now and added, “I definitely want to experience motherhood at some point.” Chopra, who got married to American singer Nick Jonas last year, further said they really want to set down their roots together. “I’m not someone who has a bucket list. I don’t make long term plans,” she added.

3

Ananya Panday: I’d been dying to work with Ishaan Khatter Ananya Panday and Ishaan Khatter kicked off Ali Abbas Zafar’s maiden home production, the Maqbool Khan-directed ‘Kaali Peeli’. The romantic action-thriller is primarily set in Mumbai and co-stars Jaideep Ahlawat, known for films like ‘Raazi’, ‘Raees’ and ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’, as the antagonist. Ananya informed that she has been shooting for the film in night shifts ever since it went on the floors.

“We are filming majorly at real locations all over Mumbai. If you see two crazy kids driving around in a taxi on the streets, you know it’s us (Ishaan and I),” the actress said.

She goes on to reveal that the film, which also has Zee Studios and Himanshu Kishan Mehra as the producers, is quite a new space for her after the love triangles, her debut film ‘Student of The Year 2’ and the

follow-up ‘Pati Patni Aur Woh’.

“The character is completely out of my comfort zone as she doesn’t speak the way I do in real life. It’s interesting because I had to adapt to a new lingo and a different tone. We have experimented with my look as well,” she explained and added that the Mumbai kaali-peeli plays an important role in the gritty thriller besides her and Ishaan. To get the nuances of her character right, Ananya worked closely with her director and co-star.

“I had been juggling between the ‘Pati Patni Aur Woh’ shoot and workshops for ‘Kaali Peeli’. Ishaan and I had a lot of reading sessions which helped me get comfortable. I carried the script along during the Lucknow schedule (of ‘Pati Patni Aur Woh’) too, and would rehearse my lines aloud,” she smiled.

When asked if she’d traveled in a kaali peeli cab, which is a prominent part of Mumbai roads, before signing the film, the Bandra girl answers in the negative, explaining, “I’ve traveled in autorickshaws as they’re more readily available in the neighborhood I live in.”

While she waxes eloquent about Ali’s great commercial sense and his positive vibe, Ananya has a confession to make about her costar. “I had been dying to work with Ishaan ever since I watched him in Beyond The Clouds. I hope his energy reflects in my performance as well. He is such a talented actor. Both of us are young and it’s a lot of fun with youthful energy on set,” she signed off.

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 32

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 33

Actress Kareena Kapoor Khan, who has almost completed two decades in the industry, says, “It has been an amazing 20 years. It has been a fabulous journey working with some amazing people. I was born to act because I feel that’s where my passion is and I will hopefully act till the end of my life.”

Now, Kareena is looking forward to work with Aamir Khan for the third time in ‘Laal Singh Chadha’ and has hailed the superstar a cinematic genius.

“I can’t talk about the film because it’s very special but when the time is right we will definitely talk about it. It’s going to be an absolute honor for me to be in the same frame with Aamir because I have always been a huge fan of Aamir .It’s always been a dream come true moment whenever I work with him. He is a cinematic genius and sharing a frame with him again would be an absolute dream come true moment for me,” she added.

‘Laal Singh Chadha’ is an official remake of the Hollywood classic ‘Forrest Gump’.

It is written by Atul Kulkarni, directed by Advait Chandan and co-produced by Viacom18 Studios with Aamir Khan Productions.

karEEna kaPOOr khan

Farhan akhtar

ALIA BHATT

BOLLYWOOD BONANAZA DesiPages

Farhan had a tough time hiding his body. In the Priyanka Chopra co-starrer, he sports a normal body, for Toofan he has to sport the body of an athlete.

While The Sky Is Pink was being shot, Farhan had started working on his body for Toofan. In no way could the team have him expose his chiseled body while facing the camera, for the film that features him as a father.

Shedding more light on the same Farhan says, “We actually had to keep my body covered, as for Toofan I was making six-pack abs (laughs).” The movie is directed

by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra and also stars Paresh Rawal, Isha Talwar, and Mrunal Thakur. While Farhan plays the role of a boxer, Paresh essays the character of his coach.

For someone like Alia Bhatt, who has been constantly rediscovering herself with different characters on screen, choosing roles is both a factor of her mind and heart.

“If I keep too many barriers or limitations in my mind while choosing a film or the parts I am offered, it would not help me become a ‘massy’ actor. Cinema is art.

Being an artist, these are the times when I should let my creative juices flow freely,” says Alia, who was last seen in the Bollywood film Kalank.

“I prefer keeping an open mind when I read a script or sit for a narration — I work that way… I think I should be open to doing different kinds of characters and try and surprise the audience every time. I should try and form a balance, entertain the audience and at the same time play characters that satisfy my creative urge,” she says.

But at the same time, Alia is aware of her responsibility as an actor and social influencer. “I am obviously responsible as a celebrity and do think what I am putting out for the audience. But I can’t be constantly thinking ‘What if my character is misinterpreted, what if the audience doesn’t connect with what I am playing onscreen, what if the character isn’t giving out the right kind of message’. Then it would be very difficult for me to perform. Limiting myself, thinking how people will react to what I am playing on-screen, is harmful, I can’t work like that,” she adds.

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 34

www.universalsolarsystem.net GO GREEN! SAVE GREEN!

WHY CHOOSE US? BBB Accredited: A+ Rating 200+ Residential Installations in DFW Better Returns than S&P 500 with no Risk

ABOUT US GO GREEN! SAVE GREEN! with Universal Solar System. We develop and design solar powered systems that deliver consistently clean, reliable energy at a cost that’s attractive even in the most competitive markets. Our ability to bring solar projects to fruition with unmatched ďŹ nancial returns to our clients is a testament to the strength of our team and our leadership.

Going Solar is an Unsurpassed Investment in Green Future.

Experienced Professionals in Residential, Commercial and Solar Farms.

Great Referral Program

REQUEST YOUR FREE QUOTE TODAY

1 (866) SOLAR-95 info@universalsolarsystem.net 2121 W. Spring Creek Pkwy #119, Plano TX 75023

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 35

goodreads

Gems of Gratitude

November is the month that glorifies the spirit of sharing and giving. However having a feeling of gratitude should be a daily practice. As we move forward into 2020 and beyond, this November is a great time to look back and be thankful for the precious moments and generous gifts that the universe has bequeathed to us this last decade.

It is human tendency to dwell on those aspects of our lives that are out of balance or lacking such as love lost, opportunities missed and unexpected twists and turns in the journey of life. However it takes great will power and a spiritual mindset to look above the lack, and find the gratitude zone that gives the glimmer of hope to illuminate the future. Here are a few exercises to help us ascend to higher levels of feeling thankful and blessed because that is truly the “zen zone” when we can move with the flow of life rather than against it.

Sun Moon Journal: This is a great way to start your day, appreciating the powerful light of the sun and making a note of what you want to accomplish for the day. At the end of the day, feel the healing moonlight and offer thanks for anything positive that occurred that day. Finally recall someone or a circumstance that made you feel inspired and pen your inspiration.

Mentoring Circle: There may be times in our life when our own light goes out, only to be rekindled by the spark of another. Identify the circle of mentors and special connections in your life who have lit your flame or helped to re-ignite your spark. Everyone has their guardian angels who step in during certain times and then exit our lives. Whisper a prayer of thanks to them and the universe will carry it for you. Some are lucky to continue to nurture that connection. Write them a note recalling a special time in your life when they helped you get back on track.

DesiPages

MADHURI’S MUSINGS Gratitude Jar: A gratitude jar is a heartwarming exercise of dropping thank you notes into a jar as and when we count our blessings. As the jar grows fuller, so is the sense of gratitude that will circulate around our household and our life. The day the jar is full, you can empty the jar by reading the notes out loud, oneby-one before you refill the jar again with a new set of thank-you notes and a fresh breath of gratitude.

Appreciating your Intangible Assets: The waves of consumerism place a premium on an individual’s tangible assets and materialistic acquisitions while undervaluing the intangibles such as strength of character and inner spirit. Know thyself and your strengths so you can magnify the impact of those virtues or values that differentiate you.

Give even if you only have a little: Giving even a little has a ripple effect. Every cent counts. In addition, giving your time by volunteering for a cause or sharing your talents with the world creates waves of joy.

Giving thanks for Good Health: Giving thanks for good health is giving thanks to the gift of life. Rather than focusing on the lack of good health by voicing the aches, pains or imbalances, appreciate the goodness of health and well-being, the miracle of the senses that keep us alive and the inexhaustible reserves of energy that we can tap into to keep up our zest for life.

Finding Magic in the Mundane: There is magic all around us if we seek to see it. There is a hidden mystery in life’s events that unfold. It’s like a treasure-hunt.

Searching for those hidden treasures using the little clues that come our way, makes our life enchanted.

There is beauty in the mundane; such as the melody of laughter, a glorious sunset or music that stirs the soul.

Being Thankful for the Now: The past is history, the future is illusory, then why not rejoice in the beauty of the present and use the power of gratitude to magnetize your dreams? This the real now. Life comes a full circle and starts again and what goes around will come around. An attitude of gratitude will enhance positivity and magnify worthwhile experiences in life.

We all need to unearth and discover those hidden gems of gratitude in the soil of our lives to treasure and to transform the mundane to the magnificent, the ordinary to the extra-ordinary.

Happy Thanksgiving!

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 36

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 37

Sonam Kapoor

Bhumi Pednekar

From the time she entered Bollywood in 2007 with Saawariya, Sonam Kapoor Ahuja mostly courted the limelight as a fashionista and a highly-opinionated person rather than with her acting skills -- till Neerja in 2016 changed that opinion for many. While the actress is happy with her career graph, she now wishes to be part of horror and action films.

“I haven’t done any action and horror films, so these are the two genres I would love to explore. It would be so different and exciting for me because I haven’t done anything on action. So, one of these two genres would be interesting to try out,” said Sonam, who looks forward to working with filmmakers Vishal Bhardwaj and Shoojit Sircar.

Starting her career as an assistant director in the film Black under the mentorship of filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Sonam is philosophical recalling her initial days when Saawariya turned out to be a critical and commercial failure.

“The fate of any film is not in the hand of actors, so I do not think we could have done anything differently then. But people liked us -- Ranbir and me. Since then, both of us have worked with some of the most powerhouse filmmakers of the country,” she said.

“I think as long as people are interested in working with you, as long as an actor gets a chance to be part of good stories, one shouldn’t think too much about the fate of a film. Ranbir is a superstar now and I am doing okay,” she smiled.

She added, “Initially I was disheartened to face criticism for no reason. There were times people criticized me and did not take me seriously because I love fashion and dressing up. I felt bad but I also love acting and the process of moviemaking so much that my passion for my profession remains a constant drive.”

“I love acting and fashion. I make every choice from my self-belief, and when you are driven by passion you are bound to get positive results. I have learned to be patient and realized that patience is the greatest virtue in life,” said the 34-year-old, who was recently seen in The Zoya Factor opposite Dulquer Salmaan.

Actress Bhumi Pednekar feels inequality towards women is burning reality even in today’s time. She hopes that the film brings about some change in the way people think and celebrate daughters. “’Saand Ki Aankh’ is a film about the equality of women at its core. Women have faced inequality in our country ever since we can remember. It’s taken a bunch of bold and courageous women to break those age-old molds of discrimination, to bring about an evolution of equality in our country. These women started a revolution,” Bhumi said.

She added: “And that’s exactly what the Tomar sisters did.

Unknowingly, they were a part of a system that didn’t give them any opportunities cause the society just didn’t know better, but they didn’t want the same for their daughters and granddaughters.”

‘Saand Ki Aankh’ is inspired by Chandro Tomar, or Shooter Dadi, and her sister-in-law Prakashi Tomar or Revolver Dadi, from Uttar Pradesh, who are said to be the oldest sharpshooters in India.

Bhumi is deeply inspired by Chandro and Prakashi’s journey.

“In their 60’s they broke all shackles of patriarchy through a very inspiring and truly overwhelming journey. Laughing, smiling with never a dull moment they paved the path for a flourished future not just for their girls but for over 50,000 children. They are full of love, warmth, hope and all things positive. They are such fun and full of life. Their story is one to be remembered,” she said.

The actress calls ‘Saand Ki Aankh’ “an out and out family film”.

“Because it is important for the whole family to see this movie and realize that knowingly or unknowingly it is always the woman of the house who gets subjected to inequality, it is her dreams that more often than not become secondary or non-relevant,” said Bhumi.

She added: “I hope, through our film and through the inspiring dadis we can bring about some change in the way people think. We need to celebrate our daughters. Love them, nurture them and let them shine.”

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 38

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 39

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 40

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 41

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 42

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 43

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 44

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 45

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 46

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 47

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 48

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 49

VAISHALI THAKKAR

CEO - Perfect Tax & Finance CMO - FunAsia

A SPECTACULAR JOURNEY FROM AN ARTIST TO A CEO Vaishali Thakkar moved to the US in 2003 after her marriage. She had an Accountancy degree from India and a Post-graduation in classical Bharatanatyam dance. Her heart was in the arts, but she could recognize the immense opportunities in the land of dreams, The United States of America, and started with odd jobs stepping out of her home. She worked as a Cashier, a Schoolteacher, spent some time in IT and then finally after discussion with her husband, Sam Thakkar, she joined her Father in Law’s home-based business where he prepared tax returns and needed help.

In Perfect Tax, she started in sales and marketing. Took care of the entire Legal work where she worked on Incorporation, condonation, petition, etc. She enrolled in University of Texas, Dallas and completed a degree in Taxation. Her Father in Law helped her learn the integrities and has been a mentor all the way. She continues to study and reads almost 100-200 pages every day.

She is a quick learner and says business is in her genes which she inherited from her dad. She fondly expresses, that at an early age of 15 she would take care of sales in her father’s garment store when he took off to learn music for a few hours. She made great sales and the clients would be very impressed and would always ask for her. In Perfect Tax they flourished with only 3 people doing everything. She learned and grew in position in the company and through her hard work and dedication she became the CEO. The company turnover and number of employees increased.

Now she felt it was time to diversify the portfolio of Perfect Tax. Her husband Sam was in a very senior position in Capital One. He had already worked in many Fortune 500 Companies. Perfect Tax was lucrative enough to attract Sam to leave his job and join this family Business full time. Sam’s dream of owning his own business was Vaishali’s dream too and now the time was ripe. His business expertise and vison were much needed. The growth was multifold.

DesiPages

ACCIDENTALLY LANDED IN THE CMO ROLE OF FUNASIA Vaishali was also a model back home and missed her glamorous world. She always felt that it was an unfulfilled side of hers and often expressed that to her husband. When the opportunity of buying Funasia the Media and Entertainment Company came up, Sam knew it would be the best gift to his wife. However, after buying it was Sam who was looking into the operations and growth of the company. Vaishali never thought she would be working full time in it as she was happy with her work and role in Perfect Tax. But, circumstances were such that she had to look into the operations of the business at one point when Sam was traveling outside of the US for a long time and Funasia needed a lot of help. Her sister in Law Zankruti who was involved there persuaded her to give time and attention to Funasia too. Vaishali says she accidentally landed in the CMO’s shoe in Funasia, which she now cherishes.

She goes into in-depth studies and research on any new project she takes up, which she did for media business as well. She has now taken over the operations of Funasia completely, organizing each department and team, creating processes, highlighting the roles and duties of each department owners. She says this business was very different from Perfect Tax as the people associated are very different. Here she was dealing with a lot of artists, their emotions and talents. That needed to be addressed differently. It also called for a lot of her time. But, after a year of understanding and patiently addressing each area she is happy that the team has come a long way and now she reaps the benefits of a settled happy team delivering to their fullest. She also thanks her Perfect Tax senior management, sales, and operations team who independently handled a lot of things giving her the free time for the new role she took over.

A PEOPLES PERSON She loves to be around people and accepts that every person is different.

She believes in putting a person ahead of her. She says, “No one likes bosses”. When things can be done in nicer ways, one should not lose temper and think negative. She believes in her team and that ideas can come from anyone. That is what gives her employees, whom she considers her family, an open mind to think and suggest out of the box solutions. She says, “If I am the boss it does not mean I am the smartest”.

THE FAMILY WOMAN Her kids are her priority. She gives them maximum time and direction.

Her family, in-laws and her husband mean ++++the world to her. She loves challenges and admits that Sam is also similar in that respect and that is why they complement each other.

She says that life is beautiful and if one is happy from within then one can spread happiness. She wants to give back to the world and help the needy. She prays that God gives everyone an ideal life but if someone is lacking physically or monetarily, she would also like god to give her the capacity to help when she retires.

For the community, she says that they are the strength. Entertainment is a big part of a person’s life. If they invest their time in us, we must deliver.

We at DesiPages wish Vaishali great health and happiness in whatever she achieves. We wish her a very Happy Birthday on her Milestone Birthday month.

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 50

DesiPages

DFW | November 2019 VOL 10 | 51