KONNECTING! Dear Readers,
THE TUBE
>>> 4
Yahaan ke Hum Sikander Sister-brother duo Raima and Ravi come from a small town to a hip-and-happening city college and form bonds with five other friends.
TINSEL TALK
>>> 10
Salman exposed Brawny Salman Khan had a tough time on Farah Khan's show when his mum and dad took the centrestage and gave a tell-all account of his personal life!
COVER STORY
>>> 24
Love Guru Saif Ali Khan has turned 'love guru' for his 'Love Aaj Kal' costar Deepika Padukone as the duo had discussions about their respective love lives.
HIT or MISS
Loads of thrills 'Luck' rides on star power, adrenaline-pumping thrills and a concept that's novel for the Indian screen- gambling with life!
>>> 34
Shangri-la called Bhutan Bhutan is at the same latitude as Miami and Cairo. The climate varies - the southern border area is tropical and in the high Himalayan regions, there is perpetual snow.
KHANA KHAZANA
During the two years of our operations in Australia, we have received many requests from people who would love to watch Indian channels but are unable to do so as they live in an apartment. This led us to get in collaboration with the top Indian Channels and bring you the best of entertainment for the entire family at an affordable price of just $39.95 a month (or just over a dollar a day).These channels will be on a DTH platform and you will require a small 65 cms dish to be able to get connected. This dish can even be installed in a balcony and requires no drilling.
Get Konnected this month and enjoy a free viewing as you will start paying subscription only from September. For feedback write to abhishekn@konnectv.com
ABHISHEK NARANG CEO
>>> 38
Katori chaat Tasty specialties direct from the kitchen of Sanjeev Kapoor to tickle your taste buds! Turn your everyday meals into a lip smacking gourmet experience. Now you too can be a master chef!
DISCLAIMER KonnecTV does not guarantee the authenticity or take any responsibility (in any way) of the material in any advertisement or discount voucher.
August 2009 I 2 I KonnecTV
would like to share with you the exciting news of the launch of our new product: a premium bouquet of four Indian Channels - Zee TV, Star Plus, B4U Movies and NDTV Imagine.
It is our endeavour to bring to you the best of entertainment and the latest news from back home in your very own language. We look forward to having you on board and assure you of best service always. Call us 9am-7pm Monday-Friday on 1300 797 012 or visit our website www.konnectv.com.
>>> 30
GREAT ESCAPES
I
Publisher: KonnecTV Australia Suite 1B, 137-139 Silverwater Rd, Silverwater NSW 2128 Tel: 1300 797 012 Fax: 1300 794 210 Abhishekn@konnectv.com www.konnectv.com Ad enquiries please contact: bandukwala@konnectv.com Design: DIP Media
Z
ee TV Asia Pacific launches new show 'Yahaan ke Hum Sikander' which is a story of Raima and Ravi, a sisterbrother duo, who come from a small town to a hip-and-happening city college, and form bonds with five other friends. To catch this latest drama tune in to Zee TV Asia Pacific from 26th August'09 onwards
August 2009 I 4 I KonnecTV
A
one-hour special episode! Catch the auditions of SaReGaMaPa Little Champs in Hong Kong on Zee Asia Pacific. Watch the talented tiny tots singing soulful and foot tapping numbers and the results of the same. Among the scores of talent who competed for the coveted recognition, lay the talent that Zee acknowledged!
Cast: Sunil Dutt Sanjay Dutt Gracy Singh
Munna's humiliated parents return home leaving Munna with a strong desire to hurt the offending doctor and also marry his daughter
I
n India gangsters are called Bhai (brother). One such Bhai is Munna, who is feared by everyone in Mumbai. He cons his village-based parents into believing that he is a doctor. He gets a shock when he finds out that they are coming to verify for themselves. So he transforms a rooming shanty house into a makeshift hospital, populated by patients, people he beats up. His parents arrive, are pleased, and happy that their son is well settled. They would like him to get married to a doctor's daughter. The marriage is arranged, but before the engagement, the bride's father finds out the truth about Munna, and cancels the marriage. Munna's humiliated parents see the truth for themselves, and hurt, they return home, leaving Munna with a strong desire to hurt the doctor - and force him to let his daughter get married to him - even if it means getting admitted in the medical college - with forged documents!
August 2009 I 6 I KonnecTV
S
hahid Kapoor has adopted his father, the illustrious Pankaj Kapoor's mode of acting to play the double role of Guddu and Charlie in Vishal Bhardwaj's Kaminey. Pankaj had played a double role in Anubhav Sinha's Dus. When Vishal who has directed Pankaj in The Blue Umbrella and the short-film on AIDS Blood Brothers, invited Shahid to play the morallyincompatible twins, Shahid apparently studied the way his father played the part. Amole Gupte who is Shahid's co-actor in Kaminey says he has never witnessed such diligence. "When Shahid played Guddu he had to assume Guddu's stammer. He completely internalized all of the character's traits, including the stammer so that there's nothing caricatural about the character." On the sets Shahid never withdrew into his vanity van. "He stayed on the set throughout, kept absorbing the ambience, the sweaty milieu in which Guddu and Charlie had to function in their own separate ways. I know Pankaj works the same way. And I truly believe Shahid has inherited Pankaj's ability and style of performing without seeming to act. It is definitely in his DNA," says Amole who has earlier worked with Aamir Khan in Taare Zameen Par. Amole rates Shahid in Kaminey as a benchmark in male performances. "I don't think a double role has been done like this before. Shahid has entered Guddu and Charlie's world. Naseer and Pankaj apart I know very few actors who could've done what he has."
V
idya Balan may be amidst good looking men from tinsel town but it seems she doesn't really fancy the Bollywood
types.
“Zahir is the hottest cricketer on the block, he may be quiet, but he seems to be a strong man from within�
August 2009 I 8 I KonnecTV
Vidya Balan thinks cricketer Zahir Khan is the hottest! "He is the hottest cricketer on the block, he may be quiet, but he seems to be a strong man from within" is what Vidya told a popular tabloid. Now considering that Zahir is not single any longer and will be tying the knot soon, will this mean that Vidya's hot property will be taken away? And Vidya has not just taken to cricket but also cricketers. We wonder what Zahir has to say about his latest fan from the tinsel town!
F
or Bollywood`s original `Dreamgirl` Hema Malini, beauty queen-turned-actress Aishwarya Rai is the only one who deserves the `Dreamgirl` tag among all the new age actresses. "Whoever is on top is the Dreamgirl. I feel it is Aishwarya Rai," Hema told reporters on being asked who, according to her, deserves to be called the `Dreamgirl` nowadays. Taking about the hardships an actress has to face, she said: "An actress` life is the same - nothing has changed. It is what it was even 20 years back. They have to work very hard, make themselves look beautiful and need a lot of dedication to remain at the top," said Hema, who was in this suburb of the national capital to felicitate winners of supermarket Big Bazaar`s `Meet The Dreamgirl` contest. Snubbing the idea of having a size zero figure, Hema said: "You must have a flat stomach - not a pot belly - and a nice and beautiful face - at least a tolerable face - and you can be an actress." Dressed in a pale yellow, elegant sari, the 60-year-old actress who has delivered hits like "Seeta Aur Geeta", "Satte Pe Satta", and "Sholay," admitted she is toying with the idea of getting into production and returning to direction after almost 17 years.
August 2009 I 9 I KonnecTV
READY TO MARRY BUT‌
G
oddess of beauty Katrina Kaif gave out shocking confessions about her personal and professional life in a famous magazine. The Superstar, who carries her boyfriend's picture all times, says she is happy in her current relationship but has no plans to marry this year. She said that though Salman is ready to tie the knot, she still isn't. Apart from that, Kat gave out clarifications about her alleged link up with Ajab Prem Ki Gajab Kahaani co-star, Ranbir Kapoor, Salman's latest muse Claudia Ciesla etc. O.K., at last Katrina is ready to marry Salman but only after making her career.
FEARLESS FRIEND
K
atrina Kaif and Salman Khan might have many times hit the headlines for their differences and break-up but the duo never give clarifications and keep their relationship away from media glare. Kat, who rarely speaks about her beau, has this time opened her heart about Salman. In six years of liaison with Sallu and with ups and downs in her professional life, Salman has been a true guide and a teacher who teaches her how the industry works and shows direction whenever she needs it. Katrina Kaif has grown as an actress and she gives credit to Salman for being her constant guide. Kat revealed that Salman very often tells her that she is changing but when she claims she is growing, he warns her to be careful and make sure that she doesn't get deviated to wrong ways. August 2009 I 10 I KonnecTV
T
he brawny Salman Khan had a tough time on Farah Khan's show when his mum and dad took the centre stage and gave a tell-all account of his personal life! Salma Khan, Salman's mother made the actor squirm on his seat as she went all to unravel his life on choreographer/director Farah Khan's forthcoming show 'Tere Mere Beech Mein'. "Though it started off as a Salman Khan show, it was soon evident that the star was Salma Aunty. She was candid and natural and stole the show from her superstar son. She broke so many of Salman's bhaandas that at one point an embarrassed Salman actually didn't know where to look even as the audience was very amused", said a member of the audience. If this wasn't all, Salman's dad, Salim Khan gave one of his most controversial statements when he said "Salman always falls in love with actresses but then wants them to give up everything and stay at home much like the most special woman in his lifeĂ– his mother. He has been spoilt silly by his mother."
x
Salman
E POSED July 2009 I 11 I KonnecTV
M
arriage mirage
“I know once I get married I'd like to devote myself completely to that. When it comes to my emotions I'm not a multi-tasker�
K
areena Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan have been dating for long and now Sharmila Tagore wants her son to settle down. She has been knitting the dream of Saif and Kareena's marriage but Bebo has spilled water on her dream. She informed Saif's mom that she and Saif won't be getting married for the next three years as their careers are going great guns and both need to concentrate on career now. For Kareena getting into marriage is a tough commitment, "I know once I get married I'd like to devote myself completely to that. When it comes to my emotions I'm not a multi-tasker. So at the moment, specially after Kambakkht Ishq, I need to work. These are the best years of my working life. And Saif is with me, neither of us are running away from a full commitment to one another. So no marriage for another three years." Saif too has convinced his mother. "Amma loves Kareena and of course wants us to be together always. But we both need and want to focus on our work and we'll think of taking our relationship to the next level when the time is right. Right now, things are beautiful the way they are," Saif says.
July 2009 I 12 I KonnecTV
August 2009 I 11 I KonnecTV
Models walk the ramp as they present creations by designer Rekha Jacob
The Blenders Pride Bangalore Fashion Week had on show some of the most exquisite and exotic fashion. The list of designers showcasing their collections includes Rocky S., Abdul Halder, Jattinn Kochhar, Samant Chauhan, Lina Tipnis and some of the best Bangalore designers such as Manoviraj Khosla, Sanchita Ajjampur, Namrata G. and Ramesh Dembla. The Week also saw top talent in terms of models, some of the big names walking the ramp through the week were Zulfi Sayed, Shawar Ali, Bruna Abdullah, Candice Pinto and Bangalore's very own Acquin Pais and Priya Nayak. The models sashayed down the ramp in creations by Parvesh & Jai, Abhi & Rahul, Zubin Vakil, Tejas P Gandhi, Neelam Ashley, Lina Tipnis, Bhumica & Hiral, Namrata G and Abdul Halder.
Bollywood actress Koena Mitra walks the ramp as she presents a creation by designer Priyanka Thakur during the second day of the Bangalore Fashion Week
August 2009 I 12 I KonnecTV
After the ramp-scorching, Kingfisher did the rounds by the poolside. Models Pashmeena Barker, Acquin Pais, cricketers Manish Pandey, Parthiv Patel, snooker champ Pankaj Advani, actors Diganth and Kiran, designer Manoviraj Khosla and choreographer Sheetal Sharma were all caught basking in the very fashionable air! Designers in Bangalore say that they are now reinventing themselves by making use of less expensive fabrics to cope with the prevailing downward trend in global economy. Models present creations by designer Yash Vardhan
Creations by designer Sanjay and Shammy "They (fashion designers ) are reinventing themselves, presenting the whole thing in a new way so that... we are trying to cut down the cost, we are trying to use the fabric not that lavishly exorbitantly costly. So, this is how we re trying to incorporate the whole thing," said Abhi, a fashion designer. Some feel that fashion has its own following and so those looking for new trends will definitely buy albeit they would look for something that doesn't make a hole in their pocket. "People will be compromising on the budget but not on the quality. So there will be sales, there will be business. This is just a small little phase at the moment that is little recession hit in fashion but it is not a total attack," Tejas P Gandhi, another fashion designer. Indian fashion industry has raised its global profile in recent years, but it has yet to make a major impact on the international fashion arena. Some designers including Manish Arora, known for his colourful and distinct clothing line, have showcased their collections abroad. He will be the first Indian to participate in the prestigious Paris Fashion Week. According to a report of Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM), the Indian fashion industry, driven by increasing investments, is expected to reach Rs.7.5 billion by 2012, more than double its current size of Rs 2.9 billion. August 2009 I 13 I KonnecTV
I
mran has been shooting around the clock for Aamir Khan's Delhi Belly directed by Abhinay Deo. There's patchwork shooting to be done for Soham Shah's Luck, Imran's only other film on hand. And for this, he needs to regain the weight he lost for uncle Aamir Khan's Delhi Belly. Says the affable young Jaane Tu Ö star, "For Kidnap I beefed up a lot. Did weights and worked out rigorously. Then for Delhi Belly I needed to get lean. Now I'll have to get bulky again for the remaining portion of Luck, which got stalled because of a railway strike in Namibia. I'll have to put on weight. I'll have to hit the gym very hard. I stopped going to the gym and cut down on my food intake drastically for Delhi Belly." Imran finds going to the gym very boring. "I'd rather exercise by living healthy and doing outdoor sports. I like offbeat extreme sports like scuba diving and roller skates. I wouldn't say I hate the gym. That's too extreme. But I find it boring. Imran describes Delhi Belly as a labor of love. "It's back to the Jaane Tu Ya Jaane feeling. We're all working as a team. We're all a pair of hands on the sets. When I shot for Kidnap and Luck I was treated like a star. I was called 'Mr. Khan'. I had my own van, and all the trappings. And I was very uncomfortable with that. If you ask me I'm much comfortable working as part of a team in Jaane Tu. And Delhi Belly. See, the making of a film is essentially a team thing. The more of it the better." Imran startles you by saying he travels to Delhi by economy class for Delhi Belly. "I don't want to be treated differently. I don't even have to insist on traveling economy. It just happens. It's an Aamir Khan production. It's like a home production. This is how it's done here." And then comes the second surprise. Imran has worked in Delhi Belly free of fee. "Yeah I haven't taken money for Delhi Belly. How can I take money from Aamir after all that he has done for me? He did far more for Jaane Tu ÖJaane Na and me than any producer could. No, I can't charge him. Besides, Delhi Belly is a niche English-language film. The budget is limited. Will I charge him for my next film with him? It'll depend on what it is. Right now Aamir is really preoccupied, with Kiran's film happening and all." To Imran stardom is still a process he's discovering. "What I like about stardom is the great service I get at restaurants. I don't need table reservations. That's what I like the best. I don't attend events and parties.î
August 2009 I 14 I KonnecTV
S
onam Kapoor loves to talk straight. When she was recently quizzed about wearing a bikini the Saawariya actress replied she had no qualms in wearing one. In a very candid manner Sonam had worn angarkhas, salwar-kameez, bandana, jeans, skirts, gunjee etc as the script demanded. She added that if it was a beach scene she would like to wear a bikini.
FOND OF BIKINI Sonam said that she wore bikini in her real life and it is no issue for her to appear on-screen in a bikini
After Asin, Shruti K
amal Haasan's apple of eye, Shruti, has grown into a big girl. One movie old Shruti is very keen to be independent and create a niche for herself in the big world of cinema. A singer, music composer and actress, Shruti has send ripples in Bollywood and also in her Southern hometown. A smiling Sonam said that she wore bikini in her real life and it is no issue for her to appear onscreen in a bikini. Sonam will be next seen in the movie I Hate Love Stories opposite opposite Bollywood's chocolaty hero Imran Khan. The movie will be directed by Punit Malhotra. August 2009 I 16 I KonnecTV
Bollywood being her launch pad for acting, Shruti is planning to shift her base to Mumbai. Sources revealed, "Shruti has been looking out for an apartment for herself, she is all prepared to make it big on silver screen and it's very difficult for this pretty lass to travel in and out." After Luck she has few good offers in her kitty and wants to concentrate on Bollywood. Of course, her passion for singing and music will always remain her priority," the sources further added.
Dr Shah Rukh Khan S
hah Rukh Khan is now a doctor. He has been awarded a doctorate from the Bedfordshire University in the UK for his contribution to arts and culture. "The honour brought me a lot of joy,'' says SRK and laugh, "It makes me feel slightly older when someone calls me Dr Shah Rukh Khan.'' Describing his time on the podium where he received the honour, he says, "Wearing that square cap with tassels tilted to the left, brought images of the heroes of the 70s; it was an oft-repeated thing in films those days. I didn't know whether etiquette required me to take Aryan and Suhana along for the convocation ceremony. So I left the children behind.'' Happily, Gauri was by his side when he received the honour. "I sincerely hope my parents could have watched this... and I hope it was a proud moment for them, wherever they are,'' SRK says emotionally.
August 2009 I 17 I KonnecTV
HANGOVER! INDIAN
A
bhishek Bachchan and Katrina Kaif will feature together in the remake of Hollywood blockbuster The Hangover. Producer Firoz Nadiadwala has purchased the rights of the film. The film would be directed by Anees Bazmee. In the comedy, four men travel to Las Vegas for a 24-hour stag party. They wake up with the worst hangover and find that the groom is missing, as they try to recall the details of the debauched night. Abhishek Bachchan will play the role played by Bradley Cooper and Paresh Rawal will step into the shoes of Zach Galifianakis. Katrina Kaif will play the role of the fiancĂˆe. Sanjay Dutt and Riteish Deshmukh also figure in the film.
August 2009 I 18 I KonnecTV
H
ereís a new story of bonding in tinsel town. Actors Ajay Devgan and Bipasha Basu gelled very well on the sets of their forthcoming film All the Best in Goa over gym sessions as both are fitness freaks and worked out for hours together. A source present on the sets of the movie says: ìAjay had his personal trainer Sheru (Sherveer Vakil) with him on the sets as he has been a fitness freak for years. He got a great partner to work out with and she was Bipasha. Bips has taken a keen liking for yoga and has also become a complete water baby as she is swimming a lot now. She works out more than Ajay actually and puts in around 4 hours every day. But they had a great time as they worked out in the same space and had fun sessions together.î The insider adds: ìIt was a gruelling schedule and Rohit Shetty (director) was filing very quickly and the actors had to give in everything during the entire filming schedule. But Ajay was amazed at Bipashaís fitness level.
FITNESS buddies
August 2009 I 19 I KonnecTV
THE RIGHT APPROACH.THE RIGHT RESPONSE. As an overseas student, you deserve to know the right way to plan your future in Australia. At VISAINFO, we are fully equipped to guide you all the way. We believe in the power of knowledge and information. Whether you are a new student, mid-course or looking for further education, let us at VISAINFO help you achieve your objective of becoming an Australian resident.
The right way.
Call 02-9233 3128, 9231 2651 -«iV > ÞÊ`ià } i`Ê7", ÊEÊ-/1 9Ê«>V >}iÃ
, / Ê- -Ê -/Ê - ®Ê ÕÀÃiÃ\ U Air Conditioning & Refrigeration U Motor Mechanic U Electro Technology "Ì iÀÊ* «Õ >ÀÊ ÕÀÃiÃ\ /, \ÊU Business Equipment U Cookery U Hair Dressing UÊGraphic Pre-Press U Horticulture U Community Welfare " /, \ÊU Business Management U IT U Accounting (Paid work available directly through education provider. Conditions apply.)
WE ORGANISE ADMISSIONS AND VISAS IN AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND, UK & CANADA WORK PERMITS TO CANADA AVAILABLE.
AUTHOURISED TAFE AGENT
ABN: 44 124 427 729
Level 9, Suite 3 A, 428 George Street (The Dymocks Building), Sydney NSW 2000 Tel: 02- 9233 3128, 9231 2651 email: info@visainfo.com.au A few minutes walk from Town Hall and Wynyard Stations
UÊ-9
9ÊUÊ
7Ê ÊUÊ
, ÊUÊ 1
ÊUÊ 1 ÊUÊ*1
WORDSWORTH CREATIVE
S
aif Ali Khan has adopted a new profession these days. The actor has turned 'love guru' for his 'Love Aaj Kal' co-star Deepika Padukone. It seems that he has mastered the art of handling relationships as the duo had discussions about their respective love lives off screen as well. Reacting on love tips, Deepika said, "I have been getting a lot of 'gyan' from him. He was my love guru on the sets and I was his obedient disciple. I think he can give you some tips as well." And as the question was passed on to Saif, he said, "As we were both away from our loved ones (Kareena and Ranbir Kapoor) for shooting, the conversation was about longing and belonging. Actually I was very happy to see her as a person in love." August 2009 I 24 I KonnecTV
"I told her that no matter how much we are involved in our career and how much we achieve it is actually the love which makes it all worthwhile," Saif added. About their chemistry in the film, the National award winning actor said, "It is not about being great friends in real life to have a chemistry. I believe it happens because of the beautiful situations created by the script and the aura of the two actors." However, "Love Aaj Kal" will be an acid test for Saif and Deepika as their last couple of films have failed to attract audiences. "The film's storyline is such that any common man can relate to it. It's so real and as you watch the film, you would feel that so many instances shown in it have happened to you too in real life," said Deepika. Moviegoers will have a definite treat as the songs have already become a hit and the promos are looking good. Showing love in two different eras 1965 and 2009 - through Veer Singh and Jai Vardhan Singh respectively, the film is about the essence of love that never changes. While Jai treats matters of the heart without passion and parts with from his lady love Meera (Deepika) in the name of being practical, Veer is curious about his love for Harleen (Shweta) and travels long distances to catch a glimpse of her, but fails to open his heart in front of her. As both stories unfold, the broad message it gives is that relationships might be different in different eras, but the experience of being in love remains the same. August 2009 I 25 I KonnecTV
First Name: Kajol Last Name: Mukherjee / Devgan Birthdate: 5th August 1975 Birth Place: Mumbai - India Star Sign: Leo Height: 5 ' 4" Eye Colour: Light Brown or hazel Hair Colour: Black Father: Shomu Mukherjee (Film Producer) Mother: Tanuja (Actress) Sister: Tanisha Mukherjee (Actress) Cousin: Rani Mukherjee (Actress) Spouse: Ajay Devgan (24 February 1999 - present) 1 child Daughter: Nysa Debut Film: Bekhudi (1992) Kajol is one among the few who broke the Bollywood expectations of a heroine with a fair complexion, chiseled features and a slim body as the credentials. Her talent was much spoken of by both her fans and the film industry. Hailing from a strong financial background, her pursuit of acting was rather a hobby than a career. Hence she was free from making compromises in choosing her movies for the sake of money. Kajol shared a wonderful chemistry on the screen with Sharukh Khan and there were a lot of successful Bollywood movies starring both of them like 'Baazigar,' 'Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayengae,' 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai,' 'Kabhi Kushi Kabi Gham'. Her exemplary performance in 'Gupt' fetched her the 'Film Fare Best Villain Award'. She also has the credit of being the first female actor to have won this award. At the peak of her career, she tied the knot with Ajay Devagan. Kajol is now a mother of a baby girl Nysa. Marriage however did not put an end to her acting faculties. 'Kabhi Kushi Kabi Gham' was done after her wedding in 2001. She again made a reentry with 'Fana' in 2006. She also made a special appearance in ' Kabi Alvida Na Kehna' for the song ' Rock n Roll Soniye'. Kajol's performances were duly acknowledged with a good number of awards.
August 2009 I 28 I KonnecTV
Film Fare Awards ï ï ï ï ï
1996, Filmfare Best Actress Award, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge 1997, Filmfare Best Actress Award South, Minsaara Kanavu 1998, Filmfare Best Villain Award, Gupt: The Hidden Truth 1999, Filmfare Best Actress Award, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai 2002, Filmfare Best Actress Award, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham
L
uck may have loads of thrills, but director Soham Shah ensures that the grand canvas and stylized thrills appeal to every strata of movie-going audience. Luck tells the tale of mafia kingpin Musa [Sanjay Dutt], who has one obsession: To revolutionize the betting industry. For him, life is a gamble and what better way to skew the odds than play with those with luck on their side. Different characters from different parts of the world, each with Lady Luck in their favor, are brought in to play the game of death. With millions at stake, how far will each of them go in courting danger and deceit? The very start of the film transports you to a different world. The viewer is drawn into a world where bets are placed on humans and death-defying stunts are the order of the day. The train sequence at the very start says it all. It's a sequence that not only introduces you to the plot, but also makes a hammer-strong impact. You haven't watched something like this on the Hindi screen before. The game of death is far more dangerous than those witnessed in
August 2009 I 30 I KonnecTV
the reality shows. The revolver sequence [the first challenge], the helicopter jump, the underwater sequence with sharks and the train sequence in the climax give you goose bumps and remain etched in your memory. There's a scene involving a lighter too, which is sure to draw whistles and claps. Sanju is perfect for this part and enacts it with natural ease. Actually, here's one role that only he could've portrayed so effectively. Imran is getting better with every film. Watch his helplessness at the start or his confidence when he takes to the stunts. Even towards the latter reels, he's very much in sync with his character. Shruti Haasan is a star, no two opinions on that. The confidence with which she carries off this role just cannot be overlooked. Ravi Kishan is another scene-stealer. You are under the impression that he may get lost in the crowd, but he stands tall. The masses will love him. On the whole, Luck rides on star power, adrenaline-pumping thrills and a concept that's novel for the Indian screens. Rating: 3 out of 5
Akshaye, Arshad timing clicks
L
ife comes crashing down for struggling writer Akshaye Khanna, when an aspiring actor steals his script. Luckily for the over smart, non-actor (played by Arshad Warsi) his film clicks and he becomes an overnight star. Now the hard-on-luck writer decides to get even and make a film with the same actor. This clash forms the premise for Shortkut-The Con Is On. Shortkut presents a far from convincing picture of the movie business. Most of the characters and situations end up looking over-the-top and caricaturish. Were this movie a brainless spoof, it might still have worked. Sadly Shortkut pretends to be a straight-out-of-life situational comedy. If the setting is flawed, the humour is stale. Whenever
you manage to laugh it's only because of Akshaye and Arshad's timing. Their good guy-bad guy tuning has shades of Anil-Jackie from the eighties. Chunkey Pandey is a surprise as the acting guru-turned-star secretary. In a rare role where he doesn't have to showcase any exaggerated mannerisms, Chunkey manages to keep it subtle. And then there is Amrita Rao who shows skin and a little more skin. To her credit she oozes lot of sex appeal but seems out of place. Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy's melodious music too is wasted over predictable song situations.
Rating: 2.5 out of 5
August 2009 I 32 I KonnecTV
B
hutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, is no ordinary place. This is a country where buying cigarettes is illegal, where the rice is red and where chillies aren't just a seasoning but the entire dish. It's also a deeply Buddhist land, where men wear a tunic to work, where giant protective penises are painted on the walls of most houses, and where Gross National Happiness is deemed more important than Gross National Product. Tourism in Bhutan is also unique. Visitors famously have to pay a minimum of US$200 per day, making it one of the world's most expensive countries to visit, but this fee is all-inclusive, you don't have to travel in a group and you can arrange your own itinerary. What you won't find in Bhutan is backpacker-style independent travel. This is Nepal for the jet set. First off there are the early Buddhist sites in the cultural heartland of Bumthang Dzongkhag and the undisturbed traditional Tibetan-style culture that sets Bhutan aside as the last remaining great Himalayan kingdom. Then there are the textiles, outrageous trekking as well as the stunning flora and fauna of Phobjika Valley. Trashigang is an interesting town and also useful for launching into a trip in Eastern Bhutan. It was not until the leadership of the third king that Bhutan emerged from its medieval heritage of serfdom and seclusion. Until the 1960s the country had no national currency, no telephones, no schools, no hospitals, no postal service and certainly no tourists. Development efforts have now produced all these - plus a national assembly, airport, roads and a national system of health care. Weather Bhutan is at the same latitude as Miami and Cairo. The climate varies widely depending on the elevation. In the southern border areas it is tropical; at the other extreme, in the high Himalayan regions, there is perpetual snow. When to go The ideal time for trekking and for travelling throughout the country is autumn, from late September to late November, when skies are generally clear and the high mountain peaks rise to a vivid blue sky. While the climate is best in autumn, in Bhutan an umbrella is usually never far from reach, and no matter when you go, there is likely to be rain periods. Autumn is also the time of the popular Thimphu tsechu (dance festival) and heralds the arrival of the black-necked cranes to their wintering grounds in central and eastern Bhutan. Getting there & away Unless you are an Indian national, the Department of Tourism (DOT) rules require that you either enter or exit Bhutan on a Druk Air flight. This limits the overland option to travelling one direction by air and the other by land, perhaps visiting Darjeeling and Sikkim en route. August 2009 I 34 I KonnecTV
Yosemite National Park in California several years ago. The entire stretch except some areas the drive of 280 km in five hours was a breeze. Jim Corbett National Park had the proud distinction of being chosen as the venue for the inauguration of Project Tiger in India. Home to a variety of flora and fauna, Corbett Park is famous for its wild population of tigers, leopards and elephants. In the Jim Corbett National Park are found 110 tree species, 50 mammals' species, 580 bird species and 25 reptile species. Corbett Park has always been famous for its tigers. It was first named as 'Hailey National Park' in 1936. In 1954-55 it was renamed as 'Ramganga National Park' and again in 1955-56 as 'Jim Corbett National Park' after Jim Corbett who hunted down tigers that had turned man-eaters, between 1907 to 1939. Corbett is a haven for tigers as well as its prey, which include four kinds of deer, wild boar and some lesser-known animals. Leopards are mostly found in the hilly areas of the Park. Some nocturnal cats found here are the leopard cat, jungle cat and fishing cat. Sloth Bear is found in the lower regions while the Himalayan Black Bear is seen in the higher hills. The Dole or Wild Dog can be seen in the southern areas of the park along with the Jackal. Some of the smaller residents of the park are Himalayan Palm Civet, Indian Gray Mongoose, Common Otter, Blacknaped Hare and Porcupine.
KRISHAN SHARMA
J
im Corbett National Park is one of the most exciting places for those seeking adventure and watching the beasts roam freely. It is located in the higher foothills of Himalaya in the Kurmoan hills in Utharakhand State. Having heard of its natural beauty and wildlife, I along with my wife and two daughters left for the Park in our SUV one weekend. Having driven part of this highway few years back I was looking for those potholes. To our surprise the highway reminded us of a trip we took to
August 2009 I 36 I KonnecTV
Elephants are one of the main attractions of the Park. Along the Ramganga River shores, one can spot the long-snouted, fish-eating Gharial Crocodile and the 'Mugger' Crocodile. Also seen on the rocky hillsides is the Ghoral or Goat Antelopes. The Langur and Rhesus Monkeys are well distributed throughout the Park warning the whole jungle with alarm calls when they see either a tiger or leopard from their tree-top perches. Best Time to Visit: The best visiting season of Corbett is from November 15 to June 15. Corbett remains closed during the monsoons which flood the river beds and cut the fragile road links.
TWO THINGS TO DO BEFORE HOSTING A PARTY. 1. CALL MAYA DA DHABA 2. RELAX Hosting a party is easy when you let the experts feed the guests. At Maya da Dhaba, we specialize in catering to make every celebration memorable. We have packages to suit every budget and facilities to cater for every occasion. Choose from our great new menu or let us customize a package for you. Being the perfect host is easy if the catering is by Maya da Dhaba.
WordsworthCreative MDD001
For more information or a quote call 8399 3785 or contact Ajay Raj on 0413052449
Home is where good food is:
I
believe in one thing. It is food that can keep us fit and healthy. It is food that can make us unfit and unhealthy. So why not stick to the first type of food so that we can actually experience longevity? And this first type of food is clearly defined by me as home cooked. It could be hot rotis straight from the flame with a light drizzle of fragrant ghee, the long grains of dazzling white basmati grains that somehow make rajma or kadhi as precious as caviar or those spongy wadas that soak up the sambhar. Well, be it a pulao, or a khichdi, maybe a stew or dal rice, it could be some dry vegetable with roti, but traditional home recipes do wonders for the spirit. These recipes keep the heart ticking ensconced in warmth of tradition and cultural riches. Food eaten together keeps the family together and even if there are major time constraints I am sure something can be done to get hot food onto the table once a day ìthe more Indian it is the betterî the more traditional Indian it is the best!
Katori Chaat Ingredients :- Refined flour (maida) 250 grams, Salt to taste, Oil 2 tablespoons + to deep fry, Chickpeas (kabuli chana), soaked overnight 1 cup, Onions 2 tablespoons + medium, Garlic 6 cloves, Tomato 1 medium, Ginger 1 inch piece, Green chillies 4, Mustard seeds 1/2 teaspoon, Cumin seeds 1/2 teaspoon, Fennel seeds (saunf) 1/4 teaspoon, Red chilli powder 1/2 teaspoon, Turmeric powder 1/4 teaspoon, Coriander powder 1 teaspoon, Garam masala powder 1/4 teaspoon, Tamarind chutney as required, Green chutney as required, Sev as required, Fresh coriander leaves, finely chopped a few sprigs Method:- Sieve together maida and salt to taste. Add two tablespoons oil and mix. Add sufficient water
and knead into a dough. Divide into small balls and roll into puris. Grease the outer surface of small katoris and place one puri on each katori. Gently press.Heat oil and gently slide in the katoris. When the puris get fried they will leave the sides of the katori. Take out the katoris and fry the puris till golden. Drain onto an absorbent paper and keep aside.
Buy Chef Kapoorís
PARTY COOKING by logging onto www.sanjeevkapoor.com
Boil the soaked chana till done. Grind together onions, garlic, tomato, ginger, green chillies.
Chocolate Paan Rolls Ingredients:- Calcutta paan 8 leaves, Lime paste (chuna) 1 teaspoon, Catechu (katha) 1 teaspoon, Dark chocolate, grated 200 grams, Fresh cream 2 tablespoons, Fennel seeds (saunf) 2 tablespoons Method :- Halve the paans lengthwise. Apply a little chuna and katha on each paan piece. Mix the two and spread all over. Melt dark chocolate in a bowl in the microwave oven at 60% for one minute. Take the bowl out and whisk the chocolate till smooth. Divide into two portions.
August 2009 I 38 I KonnecTV
To one portion add fennel seeds and gulkand and mix. Add a little cream and mix. Melt the second portion of chocolate for fifteen seconds and whisk. Shape each paan piece into a cone and stuff with the chocolate-fennel mixture. Dip them in the melted chocolate and place on a plate. Chill in the refrigerator till the chocolate sets.
Horoscope
Crossword
ARIES: Time is slightly adverse till 15th. You canot be demanding. It will be better to grab the opportunity and run and bring an end to suspense. Trip will be refreshing for everyone. After 15th is better to start negotiations with a well known company. TAURUS: You may be away from home for most of time before 15th. Weather and unnecessary stress may increase blood pressure. It will be better to calm down and wait for your chance when planets become very favorable on 15th. GEMINI: Money will go towards a future trip but you have the strongest chance of hitting some kind of jackpot before August 15th. You may also finish some papers and mail them to a government agency. Time after 15th will bring happiness in life. CANCER: Do not take the risk if you do not have the stamina and courage or will fail. Be extra careful in all financial matters till 15th and do not sign any contract in a hurry. Venus in twelfth brings some extra ordinary excitement in personal life. LEO: Your actions could cause some threat to your reputation if you are not careful before Aug 15th. Do not be nervous and throw all fears out of your mind that's the only way things will change. VIRGO: Money wise it looks very promising from now and on. Money may be delayed or blocked for some obvious reasons till 15th but will be released there after. You will pay some kind of fine or penalty to government too.
Across 6. Shahrukh acted as Deva in which film? (6) 8. Kareena's new boyfriend (11)
LIBRA: Lots of suspense will clear before 15th and you should get ready to reap rich rewards there after. Property stuck in market for long will also get disposed off and you will pocket the money soon.
9. Amitabh-Rakhi 's film (10) 10. Ajay Devgan's film with Arshad Varsi? (6) 12. JP Dutta's film on India-Pak war (6)
SCORPIO: Very positive time for those looking for another career. Negotiations may start early but results will come only after 15th. You will be assigned to a very responsible position once Sun moves into tenth on August 15th.
13. Raja Babu (7) 14. ''Koyal'' of Indian Bollywood (13)
Down 1. Imran Hashmi's first film as side hero with Aftab (8) 2. In Kuch Kuch Hota Hai- Kajol's name? (6) 3. Rangeela girl (6) 4. Baazigar (12) 5. Karz {1980}'s hero? (11) 6. Amitabh's original film which Shah Rukh made remix? (3) 7. Amitabh's name in film Deewar? (5) 11. Karishma Kapoor and Madhuri Dixit's film? (12)
SAGITTARIUS: You may lack the touch for first few weeks but the world is yours after 15th. You will be involved in a beautiful relationship also. Other person is not only good looking but has brains too. CAPRICORN: Planets will personal life till 15th. Keep and get rid of people doing on some easy money after
cause some disturbance in an eye on outside influence that. You will lay your hands 15th.
AQUARIUS: Yexpect some delay from other side till 15th but thereafter the deal is all yours and it will be sweet. With new strategy you will overcome all obstacles and will not be intimidated by strong competition either. PISCES: Good news will not come alone. You will win the necessary recommendation and the phone call or email will come. A big reunion may take place after 15th this month.
By "Pandit Parashar"
August 2009 I 40 I KonnecTV