Guyana Times Entertainment

GUYANA

guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 010

Friday, April 25, 2014

I

n observance of the 40th anniversary of the National Dance School, the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry on Wednesday officially announced that a National Dance Festival will be among the activities that will be held to celebrate this achievement.

The inaugural Dance Festival will not only see performances from the National Dance School and National Dance Company, but also from dance groups from throughout Guyana. The festifal will be held on April 29.

These groups will be engaged in a two-day workshop this weekend where they will be exposed to a variety of techniques since the activity is expected to be one where the dancers will be sharing their knowledge and skills.

Another national event is slated for April 29 at the National Cultural Centre when International Day of Dance will be celebrated. Preliminary sessions have already commenced in the respective Administrative Regions. Regions Three, Four and 10 would be meeting Saturday for their preliminary sessions.

The festival was planned by a nine-member committee comprising the heads of the National School of Dance, the National Dance Company, the Dharmic Sabha dance group and Classique Dance School.

Each year Guyanese are thrilled by the productions done by these companies. On the international scene, Guyanese dancers have thrilled audiences at the annual Carifesta and other celebrations.

At the ceremony to announce the activities, Culture, Youth and Sport Minister, Dr Frank Anthony lauded the dance school for the strides it has made over the years and its contribution to the dance fraternity in Guyana.

The Minister pointed out that there have already been positive responses regarding participation in the dance festival.

“Klose to My Soul” – Sonu Nigam performs to raise funds for Sabha’s Bal Page 2 Nivas

Stacy Ramcharan crowned Miss Earth Guyana 2014

Page 4

“Brazilian” Party for PC Saturday

Page 8

Page 4

2

guyanatimesgy.com

friDAY, april 25, 2014

– Sonu Nigam performs to raise funds for Sabha’s Bal Nivas

F

ollowing his magnificent sold-out performance in 2012 at the Guyana National Stadium, renowned Bollywood playback singer Sonu Nigam returns to Guyana on Sunday, May 4 for another fabulous concert organised by the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha.

The concert is the Guyana leg of his 2 0 1 4 world concert tour titled

biggest musical extravaganza to date, “Klose to My Soul” will feature tributes by Sonu to Indian musical legends like Mohammed Rafi, Mukesh, Manna Dey, Lata Mangeshkar, RD Burman and Kishore Kumar, along with a healthy dose of Sonu’s own chartbusters r a n g ing from up-tempo dance numbers to his

latest hit “Abhi Mujh Mein Kahin”, a song which swept all of the Indian musical awards last year. Sonu will also be taking requests from the audience. A 25-member troupe from Mumbai, including a large selection of Bollywood’s best musicians, will be in Guyana for the concert.

Also performing will be upcoming Bollywood playback singer, Jonita Gandhi.

Following the success of the title track of “Chennai Express”, starring Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone, and a series of concerts with

Sonu worldwide, Jonita has been making waves in the Bollywood music scene. She has done vocals for the upcoming film “Highway” starring “Student of the Year”’s Alia Bhatt, with musical director, the Oscar-winning AR Rehman calling the shots.

Jonita’s success as a singer is also thanks to the videosharing site, YouTube. She has posted several covers of popular songs and her acoustic versions of “Tum Hi Ho” and “Pani De Rang” got over two million hits! Her recent renditions of “Suhani Raat”

and “Chaudvin ka Chand” are simply beautiful.

The concert is also being held to commemorate the 176th Anniversary of Indian Arrival in Guyana and the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha’s 40th anniversary.

Tickets cost $1500 (standing); $2500 (general seating); $6000 (VIP Reserved Seating) and $25,000 (all-inclusive VVIP). Stadium parking costs $1000. Tickets are available at the Dharmic Kendra in Prashad Nagar; Red Mango at Robb Street; Bhagwan’s in Water Street;

Jonita Gandhi will also be performing

“Klose to My Soul”; the proceeds of the concert will go to the Sabha’s Bal Nivas home for vulnerable children.

Described as Bollywood’s

President Donald Ramotar and famed playback singer Sonu Nigam share a light moment after unveiling the building plan for the shelter in April 2012

Harinarain & Sons, Regent Street; E-Networks (all locations); M&M Snackette, East Bank Demerara; Murti Shop, West Coast Demerara; and Spready’s Snackette, Berbice.

For more information and ticket inquiries, please call 227-6181, 219-1900 or 6414270. As usual, there will be a strict no-alcohol policy.

The show is supported by Digicel, ICEE, E-Networks, Sunburst, Aruwai Plaza and Resort, Annjees, Maharaja Restaurant, BK International Inc, Princess Hotel, NTN, Nescafe, Countryside Agri Centre, Brandi’s Home Furnishings, Rent-A-Tent, Digicom, Smalta, Kanhai’s Electrical Guyana, Metro Office Supplies, Prem’s Electrical, Puran Brothers Waste and Chand’s Printing.

Worthy cause Meanwhile, the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha is proud to announce that Bal Nivas, its shelter for children who are victims of abuse, at Ankerville, Berbice, will be opened at a special ceremony on Monday, May 5 at 16:00h.

The opening ceremony will feature cultural performances by children and talented youths, music by the E-Networks Orchestra, speeches and much more. The feature address will be delivered by President Donald Ramotar.

The Sabha’s Voices Against Child Abuse programme was launched in 2010 and the building plan for the shelter unveiled in April 2012

by President Ramotar and Sonu.

The contract for construction was awarded to Kascon Engineering Service and works commenced in March 2013. Now complete, the beautifully-constructed building can accommodate up to 66 persons at any one time.

In addition to being a safe haven for vulnerable children, Bal Nivas boasts of a skill training centre for women and counselling facility, which will be open to all Guyanese.

The Sabha wishes to thank all of the businesses and persons who have donated generously to Bal Nivas, and those persons who have supported its series of mega concerts, the proceeds of which funds the project.

The Sabha urges all to support the “Klose to My Soul” Sonu Nigam Concert. All of the concert proceeds will be dedicated to the shelter.

guyanatimesgy.com

O

ften when Guyanese are mentioned along with Barbados, it is something negative but that

A

s May approaches, many cultural organisations are in the throes of preparing activities to mark the month that carries that special day that is significant for remembering our ancestral heritage – Arrival Day observed on May 5 every year.

Thirty-five years ago, the Nadira and Indranie Shah Dance Troupe started celebrating the arrival of the first batch of East Indians, to the then British Guiana, with Nrityageet. This year, Nrityageet 35 is being held on May 3 and 4 at the National Cultural Centre at 20:00h. A children’s matinee show is scheduled for May 2 at 13:00h.

Nrityageet’s presentations showcase multiple dance styles reflecting the diversity of Guyanese roots and contemporary lifestyles. Although it has an Indian classical, semi-classical and folk dance base,

is not the case for Barbadosbased Domini Alleyne who hails from Tuschen Village, East Bank Essequibo and

the Nrityageet dance theatre explores modern ballet, Caribbean and fusion pieces with spectacular costumes, sets and multimedia presentations that set the standard for dance and indeed theatrical productions in Guyana.

Nrityageet 35 will have a special feature on Tulsidas Ramlila, a folk theatre tradition brought to the plantation villages of Guyana by the early East Indians.

Fusion dances with Kathak, Bharatnatyam Kuchipudi, folk, popular, chutney, soca and Guyanese influences are all part of the repertoire for this year’s spectacular show that promises to wow and educate at the same time.

“New dancers are joining all the time learning and exploring the world of dance, learning from the greatest, while adding their flair for the modern and different,” said the troupe’s Director,

friDAY, april 25, 2014

Den Amstel, West Coast Demerara, Guyana.

This beauty, whose sights were always set on being a light in a darkroom as a fashion model, may not have been as successful in the beginning, but as she moves from a caterpillar, she is emerging as a butterfly in all its grandeur.

As her metamorphosis continues, this adaptable and courageous woman is proof that one can achieve anything with determination and perseverance.

She survived domestic violence and other troubles, and her message to girls and women who are in a dark place of their life where all hope is gone is: “Always remember the story of the caterpillar that became a butterfly; once you have life, there isn’t any limits… tap into your inner strengths and look for to your God.” She has refocused, repositioned and adapted and

Dr Seeta Shah Roath.

“Nadira Shah Berry, Suzanne Shah Nilsson, and Rewattie [Datt DaCosta] are also currently training new dancers in traditional and modern even as they explore new trends and create different experiences.

I am exploring futuristic dance theatre with ballet and modern dancers blending with influences of traditional styles.”

International recognised

Nrityageet presentations have been recognised internationally for their high standards in Europe and United State with the prestigious Madame Iffel Award of Barbados for the “Best Traditional Dance”.

The Guyana Theatre Arts Awards recognised the troupe for its “Exceptional Diligence in the Pursuit of Excellence”, for “Best Dance Production” in 2004,

is fast becoming the flavour in the right sense of the expression. Domini, who is a hostess at one of Barbados’s top restaurants and a fitness trainer, migrated to “The Island In The Sun” at age 13, but has returned to Guyana a few times since. It was during one of her trips to her native land, Domini suffered through her travails.

“When I returned home (Barbados) after working for HJTV in 2011, I had gained lots of extra pounds... but it wasn’t really the food, it was the emotional stress I was going through from an abusive marriage and separation.”

Stronger

At Domini’s lowest ebb, a friend brought her a sixmonth membership to a gym where she started going four to five times a week and her interest in being health conscious grew to the point of doing research on dieting and vitamins, and she has not looked back since.

While the road has been tough, she is keeping her

2003, 2 0 0 0 , 1998, and 1999; “Best Costumes” in 2003, 2002, 2000, and 1997; “and Best Sets” in 2003 and 2004.

Most significantly, the Nadira and Indranie Shah Dance Troupe received the National Award – the Medal of Service – for “Sustained and Outstanding Contribution

priorities in order by hitting the gym, eating healthy, and feeding her soul.

Shortly, she will be among a bevy of beauties from that island competing in the Mr and Miss Bridgetown Senior, Novice and Teenager Body-building Competition for lucrative prizes. From all accounts, she’s most likely going to seal the deal at this, her fifth competition. “Since I started in 2012, I’ve always placed in the top three, but this time I’m moving in for the kill,” she says.

At present she’s training at the Strike Force Gym. “I’m my own trainer... but I have my mentor Ramona Morgan, who is also a bodybuilder, who keeps me in check.”

The competition is slated for Saturday, April 26 at the Combermere School St Michael, while not the biggest on the island, it is good preparation for the Barbados’ Nationals.

“My ultimate goal is to win this one, do nationals in August hopefully winning my class and getting a

t o t h e Cultural Mosaic of Guyana” and the New York Folk Festival Award for “Long and Sustained Dance

3

chance to go to St Maarten to compete for a Pro Card, then the sky is the limit from there,” she says.

She is certainly building momentum, grabbing third place in the Barbados Nationals; second place in the Darcy Beckles Classic 2012, first place (overall winner) in Miss Barbados Emerald Cup 2013; and second place in the Darcy Beckles Classic 2013. She also captivated the audience and judges with her athleticism and elegance to be crowned bikini queen in the inaugural Barbados Bikini Fitness and Men’s Physique Cup in March, the Barbados Nation reported.

“My message is this: You will feel like you can’t go on and it’s impossible to live whether you’re a man or woman. But after the rain comes and goes, there is always a rainbow somewhere in the sky, you will see a rainbow. That’s hope right there for a happy continuous life.”

At age 30, Domini and her story continues to unfold – a butterfly on the road to fulfilment.

Productions of Excellence”.

T h e troupe has performed for national and international programmes such as the Inter-Guiana Cultural Festival, Carifesta, World Expo and many other programmes around the world.

4

friDAY, April 25, 2014

&

guyanatimesgy.com

Parika

T

Miss Global International 2013 Jody Liu (centre) of Singapore flanked by first runner-up, Miss Uganda Sylvia Namutebi (right) and second runner-up, Miss Bahamas Lashanda Wildgoose (left)

I

f you are between the ages of 17 and 26, girls; this is your opportunity: the hunt is for the firstever Miss Global Guyana 2014 Ambassador to represent Guyana at the Miss Global International Pageant in Montego Bay, Jamaica in September.

The Miss Global International Group is staging its 10th pageant in Jamaica’s prestigious resort capital, Montego Bay. One of the initial aims of the pageant is to promote tourism, hence the theme: “Uniting the world through beauty and tourism”. With over 50 beautiful and well talented ladies expected to compete in the pageant, it is fully endorsed by the Jamaica Tourist Board and blessed by the island nation’s Governor General and Prime Minister.

The Guyana franchise is signed to Trinidadian Sohan Badall and is managed by a local team which is headed by 2008 Miss Guyana Sari Queen Devi Ramcharitar.

According to a press release from the team’s Public Relations Officer, Melicia Partab, the young group comprises diversified and passionate individuals within the entertainment industry.

T

Newlycrowned Miss Guyana Earth, Stacy Ramcharan

Partab said: “Our chosen lady can rest assure proper training whereby she already have at her disposal a Physical Trainer, Pageant Coach, a Manager, a Make-up Artist, a Cosmetologist, three photographers and many designers and she is not chosen as yet.”

All hopefuls need to do is email their resume/ autobiography, including their contact information and two pictures (one full length and one head shot) to missglobalinternationalguyana@gmail. com. The application process ends May 23.

The shortlisted applicants will be contacted to undergo a screening process during which they would have to showcase their strength in introduction, discussion, evening gown and swimsuit segments before a panel of experienced judges.

Following this, a top five selection would be released to the public who can contribute to selecting Guyana’s Ambassador by voting, Partab said. The group said it welcomes the incoming tourism Ambassador who will showcase Guyana’s tourism to the rest of the world.

wenty-three-year-old Stacy Ramcharan was on Tuesday evening crowned Miss Earth Guyana 2014 at a coronation ceremony held at the Umana Yana, Georgetown.

The beauty is slated to represent Guyana on the international stage in Muntinlupa, Philippines in November.

The ceremony was attended by a number of present and past beauty queens including Miss Guyana Universe 2013 Katherina Roshana; Miss Guyana Talented Teen 2013 Tiffani Bonner; and Miss World Guyana 2013 Ruqayyah Boyer.

They all took the opportunity to wish the newly-crowned Miss Earth t h e best of luck.

A nervous and emotional Ramcharan vowed to make Guyana proud on the international stage by winning the internationally acclaimed title.

The aspiring accountant was selected, since she was a citizen of Guyana between the ages of 18 and 26, who was between five feet, five inches and six feet tall, with a proportional figure, beautiful face, and outgoing personality.

She will dedicate her reigning year to promoting specific projects and addressing environmental and other global issues through school tours, tree-planting activities, street campaigns, coastal clean-ups and other environmental activities.

Miss Earth is one of the three largest beauty pageants in the world in terms of the number of national-level competitions to select participants and one of the most publicised beauty contests worldwide. It focuses on raising awareness on environmental and global issues.

he To-To Gas Station and Sand and Stone Depot is certainly not allowing itself to be left out of all the holiday festivities and as such, has planned an event that is expected to be off the hook.

The Parika Community Centre Ground will undoubtedly come alive when the business entity hosts its annual Car and Bike show, which has been attracting thousands of patrons on a yearly basis.

Promoters intend to “bring the heat” this year and the event will see a dis-

play of unique and ‘pimped’-out cars, SUVs, bikes, and minibuses.

Of course, fans can expect sizzling clashes for the Best Car, SUV, Bike and Bus titles. There will also be prizes to be carted off for vehicles with the best sound, sleekest look, best boom, etc.

Admission to the event is said to be cool, and music will be provided by the popular Slingerz Family and the Supa Cat One Man Band.

Interested persons are asked to call phone number 695-8205 for more information.

guyanatimesgy.com

B

orn July 8 some 41 years ago, England-based singer/songwriter Nikolai A Braithwaite, aka “Litl’n” has definitely got music in his DNA, one would be forced to conclude after hearing him belt a note. And that conclusion would not be the least bit wrong, given the fact that he is the nephew of iconic Guyanese balladeer Johnny Braff.

But his talent was not immediately evident to the young Braithwaite; while he was drawn to the music of Stevie Wonder and Babyface (Kenneth Edmonds) which saw him humming a tune here and there, he never imagined he had musical abilities until he was 17 years old.

He recalls that his first public appearance was at an open mic event for which he teamed up with soca sensation “Passion” to do a born ‘Jamerican’ number: “The shakes (percusion balls)was my father, but I manage to start in key and the rest was history,” the Barticaborn North Georgetown Secondary old student said.

He went on to sing with the Tennessee Band, then the Sheriff Deputies before moving to the British Virgin Islands 17 years ago, where he sang with the Eruption band in Tortola before being recruited for duty on the Carnival Cruise line, singing with the Eclipse Band from St Lucia.

“It was there that I met my gorgeous wife on the

Guyana Times Entertainment

Top

T

10

his week, Guyana Times Entertainment asks who doesn’t like to be happy? Not a single sane human being, that is why “Happy” by Pharrell Williams has returned to the coveted number one spot on our charts after a three-week hiatus. Pharell’s position on the charts this week may also have something to do with that equally amazing John Green video that has taken the country by storm.

Remember, persons can vote up to 10 times per track and can text the name of their favourite track to 592-654-7804 or 592-687 – 8893 to votes.

As of this week, the voting process will conclude every Wednesday at 15:00h, so make sure you get your votes in before that time.

1

cruise and moved to the United Kingdom, and now lives in Newquay Cornwall.

Braithwaite, who has deep roots in his hometown and fond memories of Wineperu and Georgetown where he grew up, said apart from his wife and three children, music is his life.

His completed tracks include “Buy Me An Island”, “If You Go (Don’t Look Back)”, “In And Out”, “Airborne”, “Love Saw Us” and tonnes

Kranium – “Nobody Haffi Know”

Sam Smith – “Stay With Me”

Big Sean Ft Miguel – “Ashley” 8

Sam Smith – “Money On My Mind”

Eminem Ft Rihanna – “Monster” 10

Jason Derulo – “Talk Dirty” Keep voting.

Vote: 654- 7804 or 687-8893

more are in the pipeline.

Currently, he’s working on a duet with Maya Spring.

Ultimately, his goal is to seal a few big record deals and hit number one on the UK charts. To make that dream a reality, he has set up his home studio where he writes and produces his music. “I took quite a long break from the live performance, but am currently rehearsing to go live soon with all original tracks.”

T

Kathy Pery Ft Juicy J – “Dark Horse” 6

9

Nikolai A Braithwaite

John Legend – “All Of Me”

4

7

G

Keyshia Cole Ft Sean Kingston And Lil Wayne – “Loyal” Remix

3

5

The Mad Scientist of Music, Drew Thoven

Pharrell Williams – “Happy” 2

5

friDAY, april 25, 2014

Soyini Fraser

uyana Times Entertainment thinks that it is only right that we feature one of the most talked about musical sensations in Guyana, the Mad Scientist of Music, Drew Thoven.

Called the Hans Zimmer, Timbaland and even the Kanye West of the Caribbean, Thoven was born August 18, 1994. He said he lived a very sheltered life and because of that, music became his only medium of expression, and so his undying love for the art was born.

While maintaining that he truly does not know when a track is finished and if it weren’t for deadlines, he would never finish a track, because he is constantly altering the layers and adding other components, the music producer said his most favourite track is a demo he recorded some time ago entitled “Paradise”.

The track is special to him because it was his first attempt at being vocal and it has since been deemed captivating by the few that were privileged to listen to it.

“I scrapped it because I wasn’t too comfortable with my vocal performance at the time... I’m presently working on my voice and when I think I’m at a level where I can do the song justice... I will do the project officially. The inspiration behind the track was, and still is, very personal and it’s the element of the project that makes it so unique... I won’t like to sell it out, before I finish the project.”

As weird as it may sound, Thoven explains that he is inspired by silence. He noted that silence was his reality.

“First when I listen to music, I often hear things that are not in the composition. I sort of hear the “could-have -beens”, and the sounds that are there but aren’t really there, as a result of two or more sounds or frequencies clashing,” he explained “My production name is DrewThoven. Blam! That’s the first hint. In your face, sort of. I got the title “The Mad Scientist” and “Dr Fuse” along with FuseThoven and KingThoven,” said Thoven as he explained that those names all point directly to his style as a music producer.

he hunt is on for two young, talented, beautiful and charming young ladies between the ages 18 and 26 to represent Guyana in Czech Republic and China for the Miss Princess of the World Pageant and Miss World Bikini Contest respectively.

Auditions for the selection of the delegates commence in two week and interested young ladies are asked to grab the opportunity which guarantees one of a life time. Contestants must be single, childless and with a minimum height of 170cm. Interested persons can contact the franchise holder, Esan Griffith on 644-1416.

However, the Princess of the World pageant 2014 and the World Bikini Model International 2014 offer the unique opportunity for intelligent Guyanese beauties to covet the distinguished titles and more so win fantastic prizes and capture a wealth of memories.

The Princess of the World pageant will be held in the culturerich country the Czech Republic and it is one that is known for attracting intelligent beauties from around the world that are talented and are effective communicators.

In 2012, Soyini Fraser blazed a trail and coveted the titles of Best Talent and Best National costume at the illustrious pageant before heading to the finals.

The time has come for another gem to strut proudly under the Guyana flag and bring international acclaim once again to our country.

On the other hand, the World Bikini Model International showcases the beauty and fashion of each delegate, with a platform for exploiting the culture of their respective countries. The selected candidate will travel to China and experience among other things the picturesque beauty and charm of its ancient cities while showcasing her wit, poise and physical virility.

6

guyanatimesgy.com

friDAY, april 25, 2014

S

even beauties will take to the stage of the Mackenzie Sports Ground on Saturday evening for the 2014 Miss Linden Town Week Pageant under the stewardship of De Sheriff Entertainment and L&L Club.

The delegates will be competing in the swimwear, talent, intelligence and eve-

ning gown segments and promised to bring a combination of both beauty and brains to the stage. The pageant is held under the theme “Rebirth in stride” and is the commencement of the Linden Town Week celebrations. Admission to the event costs 1000 and will be available at the gates. Showtime is 20:00h.

E

ig ht ee n- ye ar -o ld Jahvina Lam is e representing th e Sh . ity un m Wisroc com s a ha e sh at th d note antry craving for page st fir r he is is th h ug altho m La g. tin time compe ing ing br is e sh at th says the her A-game to ay. rd tu Sa on t pagean rm fo h fift Currently a n de Lin e th at nt stude e, nc lle ce School of Ex attend she aspires to ol of ho Sc the Guyana to as so e, ur Agricult in a lom obtain a dip . ce ien sc ian ar veterin is th e, In her spare tim enjoys animal lover and , reading, hiking s. itie tiv ac r oo td other ou

N

ineteen-year-old Wrenea Sydney, representing the Half Mile community, says the first four letters of her name spells the house bird, a tiny bird with a loud voice, which is exactly how she sees herself.

This is the second time around for this charming young lady who participated in the pageant last year. Sydney said she wants to make her voice heard from various angles of life, and as such, she is aspiring to become “a world-renowned lawyer”. She believes that persons should be free to speak their minds in order to achieve positive change. Her advice: “Use your situation to empower others.”

N

ineteen-year-old Luela Figueira is representing the community of Canvas City.

The only child of her parents, this charming and outgoing young woman is an aspiring journalist who currently works as a marketing representative for Divine Entertainment in Linden. While she enjoys travelling, public speaking and socialising, Figueira spends most of her time writing and reading novels.

A former student of the Mackenzie High School, she also enjoys the performing arts and listening to music.

E

ighteen-yea rold Manouska Vyfhuis, representing the Nottinghamshire community, is a former student of the Ma ckenzie High School. Her hobb include reading, wa ies tching television and writin g essays and poetry. An aspiring lawyer, she believe s that she should stand in support of the innocent for justice.

Vyfhuis is also confide nt that she will secure the top spot in the competition ow ing to her high level of self-e steem.

She wishes to sh owcase what Linden has to offer and assist in nurturin g the community ’s develop ment.

E

E

ld ighteen-year-o e, ur nt Ve Chelsea ng i t n e s e r p e r Ward the Amelia’s ring pi as an is area, and geologist el. od m l na professio t en ud st A former ie nz ke ac M e of th she School, High and ng isi al ci so enjoys people. meeting new nfident co is Venture k away al that she will w queen of le tit with the ant. ge in this year ’s pa

N

ineteen-year-o ld Keyana De Souz a, representi ng Block 22, says that while she is known for being shy, her partici pation in this year ’s pa geant will give her the op po to be bold. She rtunity describes herself as a “boo kworm” who enjoys re ading and writing poetry , songs and short st ories. An aspiring journa list, De Souza works towards achieving her career in her spare time and takes pride in being bilingual.

ighteen-ye arold Shanti Pa ul is representing the community of Re This is also he trieve. r second time compe ting in the pageant, participated in having the 2013 edition. She described herself as be ing an outstanding and outgoing youn g woman who loves to m odel books, and ta , read ke long strolls. She is presently pursuing a certificate in agro-proce ssin the Guyana Sc g at hool of Agriculture.

guyanatimesgy.com

friDAY, april 25, 2014

7

Sneak

T

he duo, Rani Mukerji and Aditya Chopra, apparently got married on the spur of the moment during their holiday in Italy and it wasn’t a lavish affair, but a small church wedding If sources are to be believed, then the wedding, which took place in Italy on April 21, was not a planned affair, after all.

Sources say that the couple had gone to Italy for a holiday where they decided to get married. This is also why it wasn’t a lavish affair.

A source close to the actor says, “They are private people and have always wanted their wedding to be a small function rather than a mega event. Accordingly, theirs was a white wedding where only close friends and immediate family was invited. Choreographer Vaibhavi Merchant, who is known to be Rani’s closest friend, flew down to Italy on April 19.”

Moreover, designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee was asked to create a wedding ensemble for the actress.

Sabyasachi remained unavailable for comment, but a source close to the designer says, “Yes, it’s true that Sabyasachi worked on the trousseau. But given the couple’s desire for privacy, the designer will not be divulging anything about it.” (Santabanta.com)

J

alal is holding Jodha’s hand in front of all, Jodha jerks it away and leaves, Jalal comes to her and says, “You can ignore me in front of all, but you cant ignore the promises you gave to your mother, Mughal Sultanat, my people needs me so I am going back, bye.” (Desi-tashan.com)

N

aren and Ankita are praying in temple. Pari comes and stands behind them.

(Desi-tashan.com)

S

amarth gets a cough.

Raj thinks he must help him. He comes half way then returns thinking he is his enemy. (Tellyupdates.com)

A

ctress Sushmita Sen is apparently dating a Mumbai-based hotelier Ritik Bhasin.

Sushmita Sen is known to live her life with no regrets.

The actress has had several failed relationships, but she has always managed to pick herself up and move on. According to the grapevine, the latest man in her life is Ritik Bhasin.

Says a source, “Ritik owns a couple of nightclubs in Mumbai.

Sushmita has been seeing him for quite some time now. The duo seem to be quite open about it.”

Recently, the actress was apparently out with Ritik for a dinner date at a plush restaurant. When asked to pose for the cameras, the actress chose not to do so. In the past, she has been linked to cricketer Wasim Akram, who was her co-host on a TV show.

Sushmita remained unavailable for comment. (Santabanta.com)

P

ihu runs while Vicky follows her. A veiled woman comes out of the auto-rickshaw and puts her foot in Vicky’s way so that he fells down. She removes her veil. It was Gunjan. (Desi-tashan.com)

T A

mitabh Bachchan has travelled the world, meeting cinema icons from all over. He feels happy at the growing reach of Indian movies and says younger stars like Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan and Salman Khan deserve the credit for realising their potential globally.

Of course, filmmakers like Satyajit Ray, Bimal Roy and Mrinal Sen as well as actors like Raj Kapoor meandered their way into hearts across boundaries with their craft, but the visibility of Indian films – Hindi and regional – currently seems to be at an all-time high.

The movies are not just getting screen space at international film festivals, but are also getting theatrical releases in an increasing number of nontraditional foreign markets like Peru, Panama, and Morocco.

That gives Amitabh, whom French director Francois Truffaut once called a “one-man industry”, a reason to cheer. “Internationally, it is very heartening to see the interest in Indian cinema,” the 71-year-old told IANS in an interview.

Going back in time, he said: “For many years in the time when I started, cinema was not marketed or promoted the way it is now. We didn’t know about these markets. There were international distributors, but we never knew exactly what used to happen to a film – we used to give it at a pittance, because we never realised that people outside would want to watch a Hindi film or any Indian film.

“But once it began, we found the importance of the number of people that are seeing it. The international market has now become a major territory. It bodes really well, because there’s a large expatriate audience

and they have passed on their likes to their friends, and, therefore, this whole community, even foreigners, have started identifying with our films.”

The actor, who made his debut with the 1969 film “Saat Hindustani”, remembers having performed to a packed audience at London’s Wembley Stadium and at New Jersey’s now-demolished Giant Stadium in the 1980s and 1990s.

“We used to have a stadium full of people where we used to sing, dance to numbers of the Hindi film industry – filling up the Wembley Stadium of 65,000 people – it was immense – New Jersey – 75,000 people.

I saw the amount of love, affection and interest and that was really a revelation for us.

“But somewhere the generation that came immediately after us – Shah Rukh, Salman, Aamir, and (filmmaker) Karan Johar too – they pushed this potential into the international world. So if you want to give credit for the recognition, these are the people who should be credited,” Bollywood’s once ‘Angry young man’ told IANS. He added that it is because of works like “Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham”, which “became an iconic film in the Western world”, that it was found that Indian films had a potential abroad.

“Shah Rukh is as popular in Germany as he is here, Hrithik (Roshan) and Salman and Aamir are loved internationally in equal proportion. So, obviously Indian cinema is doing well. “The fact that there are festivals that invite our films and personalities and stars, is also wonderful. Marrakech, Cannes, Berlin, U.S., Britain... that’s wonderful,” said Amitabh, who is due to attend the Melbourne International Film Festival towards the end of July. (Santabanta.com)

he going is great for actor-singer Priyanka Chopra.

She is out with her third solo single “I Can’t Make You Love Me”, which made it to the number three spot on Itunes India in less than 24 hours.

After the riveting success of “In My City” featuring will.i.am and “Exotic” featuring Pitbull, Priyanka has nailed it with her third song “I Can’t Make You Love Me”. It is a unique cover of the Bonnie Raitt’s 1991 song that made it to Rolling Stone Magazine’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.

“My cover of “I Can’t Make You Love Me” is really different because the original is a ballad and we have used dance music for my version of the song.

Watch out for the video,” Priyanka, who launched the new track Tuesday, said in a statement.

Her rendition of the ballad is already on its way to making waves on the international music scene.

(Santabanta.com)

S

he is no longer a reticent, bashful starkid arriving at venues holding her mother’s hand. Kajol and Ajay Devgn’s daughter Nysa has grown up. The girl recently posted a selfie of her bespectacled look on a social networking site.

Like mother, like daughter! The picture has gone viral, and Nysa is almost unrecognisable in this picture. Her hair is long, and face looks a bit matured. Needless to say, she looks exactly like her mother here. She too wears reading glasses. Last time we saw Nysa, she was with her mother and younger brother Yug during Durga Puja celebrations last year.

Nysa is also very much like other star daughters like Shah Rukh Khan’s angel Suhana, Aamir Khan’s young girl Ira or Sridevi’s stylish beti Jhanvi. She too likes to socialise with her gang and like today’s youth is quite net savvy.

Born on April 20, 2003, Nysa is named after the Greek goddess of beauty; after her birth, her mother went on a sabbatical. The actress made her comeback with YRF’s film “Fanaa” (2006). (apkachoice.com)

8

guyanatimesgy.com

friDAY, april 25, 2014

T

T

he ultimate Brazilian Party, slated for this Saturday evening at Palm Court, Main Street, will definitely set the tone for the weekend.

The party, the first of its kind, is expected to be sizzling hot with a number of acts from Brazil, including samba dancers.

With DJ Tranquilo and the Boom DJs, it will be a crazy epic evening with the best in samba, soca, hip

hop, reggae and dancehall music all night long.

The night will get even hotter with an excellent line-up of exotic dancers who will invade the dance floor. Patrons will also be sure to enjoy the Corona and Caiparinha Beer specials all night. Ladies will be admitted free until 23:00h.

The Brazilian Party is sponsored by BM Soat, Corona, and Prem Electrical.

he place to be this Saturday evening is Gravity Lounge at Camp and Regent Streets in Georgetown for the sassiest party yet – “Sensation”.

For the first time, Pulse Entertainment will transform the classy venue into an electrifying event where the feeling evoked will last a lifetime.

“Sensation will be graced with the presence of Trinidadian DJs Jerome and Nicholas out of Parliament along with Pulse DJ Ryan as they mix tracks all night to create that sensational feeling. Patrons will also be entertained by dancers on swings.

The drink specials will be a bonus: patrons can get six bottles of Banks Beer for $2000 and will also get free samples of the Cult Energy Drink.

Tickets for the event cost $2000 in advance, but more at the door and are available at Glamour Designer Brands at Wellington Street and North Road, Georgetown and Movie Town DVD Club, Alexander Street, Kitty.

The event is sponsored by Banks Country, Cult Energy Drink and Truck Masters.

R

ecently, Club Next at the Princess Hotel and Casino has been creating a stir with its new and improved entertainment packages that saw several artistes from Trinidad and Tobago performing live.

We have seen six-time Chutney Monarch Rikki Jai in action before a filled-tocapacity night club dishing out some of his popular tunes and then there was twotime and reigning International Chutney King, Kris Persad (KI) who performed to the satisfaction of his fans.

Now as another month approaches, the entertainment continues and patrons will again be treated to an exciting line-up of performers.

On May 10, Trinidad and Tobago’s most loved sibling duo, Ravi B and Nisha B are expected to perform live at the facility for the first time. The duo is known for its versatility and is popular for hyping a crowd. Patrons can enjoy a series of styles ranging from chutney, soca, dancehall and for the ladies, a little R&B. The show is expected to be off the hook and thanks to the brother and sister combination, Club Next is expected to draw a bigger audience come that weekend.

The management of the club is making all arrangements so the night can be as memo- rable as possible. Tickets go on sale at Club Next and Princess Hotel Front desk next weekend.

Ravi B and Nisha B make for a sizzling brother and sister combo

The newly-crowned Miss Bartica Regatta Monefa George and two of her young adorable fans

T

he night was certainly electrifying and dazzling as nine beautiful ladies competed for the Miss Bartica Regatta 2014 title on Sunday evening at the Bartica Community Centre Ground.

But dazzling as they were, none could outshine 17-year-old Monefa George, who with her witty personality, intelligence and glitzy aura, carted off the coveted 2014 title and fantastic prizes.

In second place was 20-year-old Candacy Williams, while 21-year-old Rebecca Sattaur and 23- year-old Kenola Glasgow placed third and fourth respectively. The pageant was hosted at the Bartica Community Centre Ground.

The Miss Bartica Regatta Pageant provides an opportunity for young, talented, intelligent, beautiful women to showcase their skills and competitiveness, vying for the title.