SHREE is one of its kind TV show blending together a heart-warming love story under the shadows of paranormal activity. The family drama which highlights the power of love even under the most testing and incomprehensible circumstances is sure to keep you hooked and even send a chill down your spine on occasion. The leads are Wasna Ahmed and Pankaj Tiwari and the show is produced by Hats Off productions.
July 2009 I 4 I KonnecTV
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hat defines a marriage? Is it just a legal definition of a relationship between two people or is it fulfilling the moral, spiritual, emotional and physical quotients between two individuals? Zee TV addresses many such questions and more in the contemporary and dramatic show called "Chhoti Bahu".
GHAR KI LAKSHMI BETIYAANN, the popular family drama continues to highlight the society's prejudice against the girl child. It is the story of a father of four girls remarrying in order to get a male heir. Watch the problems and hindrances in the way of girls getting a fair deal.
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n this hour-long special episode, catch the auditions of SaReGaMaPa Little Champs in Bangkok on Zee Asia Pacific. Watch the talented tiny tots singing soulful and foot tapping numbers and the results of the contest. Among the scores of talent who competed for the coveted recognition, lay the talent that Zee acknowledged!
July 2009 I 5 I KonnecTV
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adal (Bobby Deol) is a naive but intelligent young man who comes from a small village to the big city. He is introduced to city life by Damru (Harish Patel) who now calls himself Danny. When Badal attends college, he meets with pretty and precocious, Tina Oberoi (Twinkle Khanna), and after a few misunderstandings and misadventures, both fall in love. This is not taken well by Tina's dad, (Raj Babbar), who hopes to marry Tina with his friend's (Bharat Kapoor) son. Tina's dad complains to the college principal (Vijay Kashyap), but Tina testifies in favour of Badal. Tina's dad then asks a corrupt cop, Neghi, who is the city's Assistant Commissioner of Police, for assistance. Neghi arrests Badal on trumped up charges and imprisons him. Badal's dad (Mukesh Khanna) also comes to the big city to try and make sense of why Badal ended up in prison. Tina's dad gives a contract to Neghi to have Badal killed, to which Neghi agrees and hires a gang of ruthless outlaws to hunt and kill Badal. He also pressurizes Tina not to acknowledge and meet Badal anymore, and Tina reluctantly agrees. Will Badal survive? Will Tina and Badal's love be fated to end tragically?
July 2009 I 6 I KonnecTV
Weighty beauty F
or her new film Zor Lagaa Ke Haiya, Riya Sen plays the role of Chumki, a sensuous construction worker. “I had to purposely put on weight for this character, as one canít expect a construction site worker to be skinny and well-toned,” explains Riya. Was she worried that the movie has a debutant director? “I always go by my instinct, when I take up a project,” she says, “When Girish, the director of Zor Lagaa Ke... Haiya narrated me the script, I could visualize the entire film in front of my eyes and was sure that the end product would be good!” Riya is also looking forward to the multi-starrer Paying Guest. The movie includes Shreyas Talpade, Sayali Bhagat and Celina Jaitley. ìI play Arpita, an oversensitive and melodramatic girl who cries at the drop of a hat,” she confirms, “If my boyfriend is a few minutes late, I suspect that he is with someone else and I yell and scream at him! In real life, I am sensitive but I donít react instantly.”
Shocking split A
fter Kangana and Adhyayan surprised people by hooking up, they went on to make their relationship official with uninhibited public declarations of love. News of their split, after a year of being together, has shocked many, including Kangana, as Adhyayan has initiated the move. Apparently, erratic schedules and time spent apart in different locations for their films has taken its toll. That Adhyayan's father, Shekhar Suman, never liked Kangana and went out of his way to say uncomplimentary things about her, must surely have contributed to the split. Kangana who had been shooting for a film in Hyderabad for a long spell, met Adhyayan for dinner recently. After a calm and mature discussion, they decided to end their relationship mutually. More than Kangana, Adhyayan was keen on a break-up. Kangana and Adhyayan now feel that they need to concentrate on their career, rather than on a serious relationship. "Lately, work has been keeping them very busy. They feel that the relationship is heading nowhere and so it is best to nip it at the right time," a source said. Apparently, one of the reasons for the break-up is also that Shekhar Suman wants Adhyayan to marry the daughter of a Mumbai-based prominent wealthy builder.
July 2009 I 8 I KonnecTV
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nown for her gung-ho spirit, Lara Dutta's sudden silence on her tumultuous personal life has stirred many rumours of late. The stunner, whose exflame Kelly Dorji had sent gossip mills soaring after he shouted foul over Lara and Dino's supposed romantic alliance, is now in news for dating tennis ace Mahesh Bhupati. But after keeping mum for months, the gutsy dame has lashed out at all such reports as she told Spicezee, "I am not seeing anyone." Refuting all link up rumours, Lara clarified to Spicezee, "The stories are all baseless. I am not seeing anyone - single, married or divorced"
For Bipasha's makeover, the producers have hired Hollywood makeup artistes to give her the right look
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hile people tackle their obsession for white skin by slapping on fairness creams, Bipasha Basu has willingly decided to play an African in Ajay Devgan's All The Best. Earlier, she was signed on only to play Ajay's wife, but she bagged the second role recently. And for Bipasha's makeover, the producers have hired Hollywood makeup artistes to give her the right look. Explaining Ajay's decision to cast Bipasha in the second role, a source said, "Ajay was looking for a dusky girl to play an African. Mallika Sherawat and Tabu were approached to play that role, but things didn't work out." Then Bipasha, who earlier had a double role in Dhoom 2, suggested that she do the role. She said she'd play the African's role too. Sanjay Dutt plays the African girl's boyfriend in the film." July 2009 I 10 I KonnecTV
The diva apparently lost her cool after a leading tabloid reported that she was sweet on Bhupati. The news spread like wildfire with several journals taking potshots at the actress' wavering love interest.
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he Hindi version of the movie Hrithik Roshan starrer 'Kites,' set to be released in December, would be different from the English version. Reports suggest that the steamy scenes between Hrithik and his costar Barbara Mori would be the same in both versions. The movie has been in the news from the very beginning due to some kiss scenes. Talking to the media the director Anurag Basu said "We can't cheat Hindi audiences. The so-called steamy scenes will be the same in both versions. The visuals will remain unchanged in both." In a recent interview, Barbara Mori, the 31-yearold Mexican actress, has spoken about her inability to stay single, her romantic scenes in Kites and her Indian sojourn. When asked about the kissing scene, the actress said that "when I do scenes
Reports suggest that the steamy scenes between Hrithik and his co-star Barbara Mori would be the same in both versions
where I'm wearing very little, kissing or making love, it is always difficult for me. Perhaps, it is about being naked in front of so many people." "In this case, there were very few people on the set and with regard to the discomfort which I feel while doing scenes of this nature‌ well, it was all very gracefully done," the actress said. 'Kites' came to the Mexican beauty when she was going through emotional turbulence in her life. Barbara says, "I get very easily infatuated; I always fall in love and then I cannot be alone...but I am trying not to fall in love this time. I am learning to be with myself." After drifting apart from Mexican actor Jose Maria Torre, Barbara was about to take spiritual breaks to know herself better but Kites has helped her to get over the trauma with the help of a wonderful co-star like Hrithik Roshan.
July 2009 I 11 I KonnecTV
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t's a well-known fact in the film industry that Katrina Kaif and Bipasha Basu can't see eye to eye. Almost similar is the case with John Abraham and Salman Khan. But the film New York has done something unusual in these Bollywood relationships. This film has brought Katrina Kaif and John Abraham so close to each other that the grapevine has been abuzz with rumours of an affair between them. Both are all praise for each other, and say that they had a gala time while shooting together for the Yash Raj film directed by Kabir Khan. As expected, there was no love lost between John's New York costar and his long-standing girlfriend Bipasha Basu. So will John play the peacemaker between his two leading ladies? Asked during an interview this is what Dostana's hot dude had to say, "I am not here to play the role of a mediator. Bipasha is a grown up, mature woman. So is Katrina Kaif. They are both experienced enough to sort out their own issues. I was there to play the character assigned to me in the film and not to act as a mediator between Katrina and Bipasha."
Bipasha vs Katrina
July 2009 I 12 I KonnecTV
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As expected, there was no love lost between John's New York co-star and his long-standing girlfriend
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Bipasha Basu
July 2009 I 13 I KonnecTV
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he end of the IPL in South Africa had also signaled the end of Preity Zinta's affair with Ness Wadia. The couple who jointly owned Kings XI Punjab were never spotted together during the tournament. The actress had herself stated that she was single though professionally still connected to Ness. Now the truth has come out as to why Preity had called off her relationship with Ness. The buzz in the tinsel town is that Ness had asked Preity to quit films. Just before the start of the IPL everything was fine between the couple and they had decided to tie the knot once the IPL was over. Ness then dropped the bomb and told Preity that she would have to quit films completely after marriage. Preity initially thought Ness was being possessive and told him she would do only selective roles. But Ness was adamant with his demand which ultimately prompted Preity to take the hard decision.
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areena Kapoor is known to be media smart but in Delhi a TV journalist offended the actress so much so that she walked out of the press conference. Kareena was flown in from London to New Delhi to promote her upcoming movie Kambakkht Ishq. A journalist with a Punjabi channel asked her if she was prepared to go nude in a movie. Kareena was shell shocked on the question and decided to walk out of the press conference. Earlier Kareena had said that she was open to any kind of films like Jab We Met, Omkara or Golmaal Returns and would do what the script demanded. Her bikini act in Tashan and the upcoming Kambakkht Ishq had become talk of the town. The actress had later justified her donning a bikini in both the movies but stated that she would not wear a bikini in any of her future projects.
July 2009 I 14 I KonnecTV
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hatrughan Sinha's daughter Sonakshi, who had initially refused to do Arbaaz Khan's first production opposite Salman Khan, is now on board. As Sonakshi wanted to pursue a career in fashion designing, she had turned down the film opposite Salman. However, little did she know that Salman's not going to take a 'no' for an answer. A source said, "Salman was impressed when he saw Sonakshi walk the ramp during a fashion week. After the show, Salman immediately went up to her and asked her to star opposite him in Arbaaz's film. Sonakshi, who wasn't sure about a career in films, did not immediately take up the offer. But Salman saw a lot of potential in her and convinced her to lose 10 kgs. Sonakshi hit the gym, maintained a balanced diet and played water sports. Consequently, she lost 30 kgs." Once Salman saw how stunning Sonakshi looked in her new slim avatar, he refused to give up. He kept pursuing Sonakshi and her parents, Shatrughan and Poonam (who, incidentally, are very fond of Salman) until they finally relented. Shatrughan Sinha said, "Acting was never on the cards for Sonakshi. But I remember as a child she was very cute and I had promised to her that I'd allow her to model for an ad.ĂŽ
July 2009 I 15 I KonnecTV
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riyanka Chopra has signed her first Yash Raj film and says she was completely bowled over by the script of Pyaar Impossible, penned by Uday Chopra, who also plays male lead in the love story. "It's the only script I've liked in recent months. When I heard the script, I jumped. I've been hearing a lot of scripts because I've really not been sure about what to do after Ashutosh Gowariker's What's Your Raashee?. "When I heard the script for Uday's film, I got so excited. It was so beautiful! Any actor's dream role. I reacted as a member of the audience," Priyanka said. Uday was last seen in the 2006 movie Dhoom 2 and is now back in action with Hook Ya Crook and Pyaar Impossible.
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atrina Kaif is having a tough time dubbing for Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani, especially with director Raj Kumar Santoshi known to be very particular about his actor's diction. The actress, who has a pronounced British accent, has been practising her Hindi constantly with friends as well as in her dubbing, so much so that she almost lost her voice. For Katrina dubbing is the most difficult part of the acting process. After all, she was initially dubbed by professional artists. She finally won the right to speak on screen in her own voice. Co-star Ranbir Kapoor has a lot of colloquial Hindi to speak in "Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani" and Santoshi has personally been supervising the dubbing. But Ranbir is a very skilled dialogue deliverer. And getting the rustic colloquialism right is a cakewalk for him. Not so for Katrina. July 2009 I 16 I KonnecTV
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ho would not want to learn the nuances of acting from an ace and quality actress like Rani Mukherjee! And to know that the actress spent quality time with just a few films old Sherlyn Chopra, who is trying to climb her way up the Bollywood ladder. Rani seems to have commented that Sherlyn has got the looks of Sophia Lauren, who grew to be an Academy award winning Italian actress. Rani was on location of a Yash Raj film production and happened to watch Sherlyn’s performance in the monitor. Sherlyn seems to be quite happy to have received such a comment from Rani. For Sherlyn who is in a field where there is tough competition and the climb up the ladder of success difficult this sort of comment from Rani, comes as a morale booster. Rani was also seen discussing the technical aspects of camera as well as the lenses to the budding actress.
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fter Kareena Kapoor, actor Shahid Kapoor has been voted the sexiest vegetarian in Asia by a new poll conducted by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). The star says that his selection has broken the myth that "fitness cannot be achieved by eating vegetarian food". "It feels great to be the sexiest vegetarian in Asia. I have always supported the cause of being a vegetarian and it's nice to be felicitated for something so close to my heart," said Shahid. "Being voted as sexy is a matter of perception but being vegetarian is a lifestyle and something that comes from a sense of responsibility. This win also goes to break the myth that fitness cannot be achieved by eating vegetarian food," he said. The actor, who featured in hits like Jab We Met and Vivah, shares this crown with American actress Natalie Portman who was awarded the sexiest vegetarian in the US.
July 2009 I 17 I KonnecTV
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eing home (to God's own country), though for a short while, has been a very pleasant experience for the 'Ghajini' girl Asin. The girl who took Bollywood by storm in her first film opposite Aamir Khan has come back to Kerala for a reason - to learn the ancient martial art of the state, Kalaripayattu. From day one she has become so engrossed in the art that she has become the brand ambassador for it. Though Asin is learning the art of selfdefence for a Tamil film, the actress feels learning Kalari has brought lots of insight in to her life and her daily routine that she will continue to devote time for the art for the rest of her life. Though the art form requires lots of tedious postures, her knowledge of classical dance has helped her a lot in easing the learning procedure. Asin is also amazed at the number of boys and girls who are coming forward to learn the art. Speaking on her routine while she is learning Kalari, Asin says her day begins at 6.30 in the morning where she learns the art from various gurus. For Asin, who does not favour partying and socializing, time is at hand to enrich life!
July 2009 I 18 I KonnecTV
Dance
AMBASSADOR
Facts & Figure Date of Birth (Birthday): 20 July Height: 5'4" Hair Color: Black Birth Place: Delhi Marital Status: Single Languages: Hindi, English, Punjabi Hobbies: Watching TV Contact Address: Salvadore, 7th floor, Flat No. 702, Shastri Nagar, Near Lokhandwala Complex, Andheri (W), Mumbai 400 053
Film Background (Filmography) Debut Film: Lagaan Famous Movies: Wajahh: A Reason to Kill, Muskaan, Shart: The Challenge, Munnabhai M.B.B.S., Gangaajal, Armaan, Pehli Nazaar Ka Pehla Pyaar, Santosham, Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India, Hum Aapke Dil Mein Rehte Hain, Hu Tu Tu Latest Movies: Wajahh: A Reason to Kill, Muskaan Upcoming Movies: The White Land Other Facts: TV artiste turned actress
Favourites Favourite Drink: Horlicks Favourite Actress: Sridevi Likes: Chocolates On what occasions do you lie: When the truth is likely to hurt Memorable moments: Shooting for Lagaan in Bhuj Philosophy of life: Believe in yourself Secret ambition: Let it remain a secret On a blind date you'd go out: Oh! I'm far removed from dates and romance If you were a burglar you'd steal: Disneyland, so I can have oodles of fun
"I was never really prepared for films. I began with tele serial "Amanat", which was a virtual acting institute for me. But I had not known destiny would surprise me so. Today, I have the power to choose or reject a film and still have offers pouring. This is because the industry has recognized my potential and the masses, my appeal. Today, I do a few films but they are those with women-oriented roles" July 2009 I 19 I KonnecTV
Ashutosh Gowarikar with the best director award at the Venetian Hotel on the third and final day of the 10th International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards in Macau on June 13
JODHAA AKBAR sweeps IIFA awards
BEDIKA, MACAU: Bollywood director Ashutosh Gowarikar's historical love epic 'Jodhaa Akbar' swept the 10th International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards here, taking home trophies for best picture, best director and best actor for heartthrob Hrithik Roshan.
The movie traces the rise of the great Mughal emperor Akbar in the 16th century in India and his romance with Hindu princess Jodhaa, played in the film by Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. The film showcases Akbar's marriage with the Hindu princess and how their romance shapes the course of history. The film faced stiff competition from 'Ghajini', 'A Wednesday', 'Dostana', 'Rock On' and 'Race'. Gowarikar won the best director award for his historic piece which wove together romance and communal harmony while actor Hrithik Roshan bagged the best actor trophy for the same. The movie had 10 nominations in various categories. However, Aishwarya failed to bag the best actress trophy, which went to Priyanka Chopra for her power-packed performance in diHrithik Roshan (Best Actor Jodhaa Akbar) July 2009 I 22 I KonnecTV
rector Madhur Bhandarkar's film 'Fashion', in which she plays a small town girl who makes it big in the world of fashion. Others contenders in this category were Asin, Katrina Kaif and Bipasha Basu. "When I started this movie I was advised by all my friends not to make the film on a subject which depicted two religions coming together because the situation in the country at that point of time was not right. But I am happy that I made a film which is based on HinduMuslim unity," Gowariker said while accepting his award at the IIFA ceremony. Oscar-winning musician A R Rahman won the best music director award for the same film. Javed Akhtar walked away with best lyricist trophy for his score 'Jashn-e-Bahara' while, Javed Ali bagged best playback SINGER (male) award for the same movie. After winning Filmfare for best supporting role, actor Arjun Rampal scored at IIFA too for his performance as a struggling guitarist for 'Rock On'. The actor, who had forgot to mention the name of superstar Amitabh Bachchan last time did not repeat the mistake again.
Priyanka Chopra (Best Actress Fashion) July 2009 I 23 I KonnecTV
"Wow...I now want to thank someone whom I have always looked up to as my inspiration and that is none other than Amitabh Bachchan," said the actor before thanking his family members. The other winners in the key categories were Kangana Ranaut, who won best supporting role for her performance as a troubled supermodel in 'Fashion', Akshaye Khanna won the best negative role for 'Race', Neeraj Pandey scooped the trophy for best story for his film on terrorism 'A Wednesday'. He also won the technical award of best scriptwriter for the same film. Actor Abhishek Bachchan, who won the best actor in comic role for his gay act in Karan Johar's 'Dostana', became emotional as he thanked his legendary father sitting in the front row. "When I was a child I saw 'Amar, Akbar, Anthony' and I told myself that I want to be like him (Big B) and I am here because of him. I thank my mother and my wife. Aish, I only love you. This award is also for Amar Singhji, who is recuperating in a hospital," Abhishek said.
JODHAA AKBAR sweeps IIFA awards
When I was a child I saw 'Amar, Akbar, Anthony' and I told myself that I want to be like him (Big B) and I am here because of him -ABHISHEK
KonnecTV CEO Abhishek Narang attended the IIFA awards function as an honored guest. Here he is seen with some of the Bollywood stars, Sonam, Bipasha Basu and Neil Nitin Mukesh July 2009 I 24 I KonnecTV
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here is newbie Gayatri Patel, a US-born-andbred girl who makes her debut in 'Let's Dance,' playing a dance teacher. 'Let's Dance' is directed by film editor Aarif Sheikh, a National Award-winner for 'Samay - When Time Strikes'. Terming Gayatri a 'dancing tornado', Aarif is all praise for the girl. "She's sparkling," he says and stresses that when it comes to dance, she can beat all the current Bollywood heroines hands down. "I've done jazz, hip-hop, filmy, Kathak and Natwari dancing in the film and I'm pretty excited about it all," informs Gayatri. "I'm discussing other movies now and I'm here to stay," she quips with a smile. "I could have very well been a doctor like my father, rather than an actress, had I not started performing on stage at the age of eight," she reveals.
‘I've done jazz, hip-hop, filmy, Kathak and Natwari dancing in the film and I'm pretty excited about it all’ At the tender age of seven, Gayatri went to a local Indian dance competition in Dothan, Alabama and decided that she was going to win the trophy the coming year. She did win the next year and the year after that and the year after that, till they stopped the competition. Now that's something! While in the United States, the spunky girl graduated from high-school and went on to study at the acclaimed Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Here, she also won the 'Miss India Georgia' title and later emerged the first runnerup at 'Miss India USA'. "Around this time, I realized that I loved theatre, dance and acting, more than studying science," she quips. Finally, her family decided she shift base to Mumbai to pursue acting. Reaching here, Gayatri spent time taking tips from theatre top-guns Satyadev Dubey and Makrand Deshpande, did an acting workshop with Veena Mehta and played the role of Ophelia in Neeraj Kabir's play 'Hamlet'. She also did three music videos for Venus opposite Inder Kumar and Jugal Hansraj, till one day, National Award winning editor Aarif Sheikh decided to launch her as the lead in his directorial debut 'Let's Dance'. July 2009 I 25 I KonnecTV
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ew York is, without doubt, one of the finest films produced by the premier production house, Yash Raj. Director Kabir Khan, of Kabul Express fame, has done exceedingly well in making a film that is not frivolous, has a message and still carries enough commercial ingredients to reach out to masses as well as classes. Omar (Neil Nitin Mukesh) has gone abroad for the first time in his life and soon enough, he begins to see and love America through the eyes of his American friends, Sam (John Abraham) and Maya (Katrina Kaif). But an incident changes the world round them. At this point enters Agent Roshan (Irrfan), an FBI agent, who sets the ball rolling for a series of tumultuous events that turn the lives of these friends upside down.
July 2009 I 28 I KonnecTV
New York affects you like no other Hindi film has done so far (on 9/11). In fact, there are portions that give you goose bumps, especially towards the second half of the film, when John recounts his past. Kabir has injected songs only when required. Cinematography is striking. John, Katrina and Neil, all actors, deliver their career-best performance. If the first half belongs to Neil, John takes over the second hour completely. John is superb when he recalls the past. You can feel his pain, that effective is his performance. This is a different John, for sure. Just one word for his performance -- fabulous! Katrina gives you the biggest surprise. Known for her glamour roles, Katrina proves that she can deliver if the director and writer offer her a role of substance. She's outstanding. In fact, people will see a new, different Katrina this time. Irrfan is, as always, first-rate.
Rating: 4 out of 5
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et's Dance is about a girl who gives direction in life to a group of street kids. Young and peppy, she is a dancer who runs her own dance school and plays the catalyst in the story. She comes in contact with a bunch of street kids and hence, begins a journey she believes in. Almost a similar story line of a passionate dancing girl wanting to save her dancing school and then organising that one big show was seen in Madhuri Dixit's comeback venture Aaja Nachle. But leaving that aside the whole film comes across as an amateurish attempt. Gayatri Patel is a brilliant dancer and a decent actress too but Ajay and Aquib simply can't act. The romance between Gayatri and Ajay appears half baked. The dialogues are good at places though and the choreography simply mind blowing. The most impressive actor however is Nikunj Pandey. Editor-turned-director Aarif Sheikh has shot the film well, but he could've done with a tighter script. Music is a plus point, but what stays with you is the choreography of all songs, especially 'Taare Todh Ke La'. Gayatri Patel is a fine actress and her dancing skills catch your attention. The two
heroes don't cut ice, but the kids do, mainly the eldest kid who talks and behaves like a real tapori. On the whole, Let's Dance is too ordinary, with its share of limitations. Debutante Gayatri Patel (who has been 'Miss India Georgia' and also the first runnerup at 'Miss India USA') is trained in Kathak and is also a pro at Yoga. A lethal combination this, it helps her attempt the most daring dance steps, breath-taking whirls and swirls and some awesome splits.
Rating: 2 out of 5
July 2009 I 30 I KonnecTV
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hreyas Talpade, Javed Jaffrey and Ashish Choudhary are three best friends staying together as paying guests in Kiska Miglani's (Asrani) house in Bangkok. But when Ashish's cousin Vatsal Seth arrives from India to stay with them they end up messing things one drunken night and are kicked out by Kiska. Now jobless and homeless the foursome, desperately try accommodation hunting which can suit their budget. They end up getting one owned by Shreyas's ex-employer Ballu (Johnny Lever and his wife played by Delnaaz Paul) but with a condition that they should be married. So Ashish and Vatsal persnade Shreyas and Javed to be their respective wives. Ballu is forever troubled by his younger brother Rocky (Chunky) who wants to get their father's hotel in his name. What confusion it all leads to when the four leading ladies Neha Dhupia, Celina, Riya and Sayali get involved in some way or the other in the rest of the film. The film actually appears ripped off from actor Sachin directed Marathi super duper hit film that ran for almost 75 weeks
called Ashi Hi Banva Banvi (1988). However, in Paying Guests, stale jokes, unimaginative writing and stereo typical characters, rather caricatures, make it a pain to sit through even its two hours running time. The music is functional while dialogues are full of double innuendo. The climax is a direct lift of cult classic comedy Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron. Acting wise Shreyas Talpade impresses as always. Javed Jaffrey is hilarious too and gets the best lines. Ashish Choudhary continues with his limited expressions and fails yet again. Vatsal is earnest but barely gets any scope. Neha Dhupia looks hot and is good amongst the actresses but her role is very short. Celina shows good comic timing. Sayali is hardly there and though the entire cast is present in the climax she is not there. But she is good in her small part. Riya Sen is cast in yet another dumb girl role which she seems to have excelled in doing. Johnny Lever is in top form after a long time. He is good even in that one serious scene he gets. Delnaaz Paul is sweet. Chunky gets irritating after a point. Inder Kumar is totally wasted in a two scene role. Asrani and Paintal irritate. Paying Guests is low in content aiming for cheap laughs.
Rating: 1.5 out of 5
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estled in the foothills of the Himalayas, the town of Kalimpong is situated at an altitude of 1,250 m. Forming a triangle with its most illustrious neighbors, Darjeeling and Gangtok, it is in the northern part of the state of West Bengal. The name, Kalimpong, has three different origins. One, it means the place where the local tribesmen gathered to organize field sports, second, it takes its name from a Bhutanese King Minister stronghold and thirdly, it is named after "Kaulim", a fibrous plant found in abundance in this region. The town offers a breathtaking view of the snowy peaks of the Himalayan range that lies not far beyond it. The lush green valleys are a soothing sight.
Deolo Hill: one of the numerous hill destinations that warrant a visit. Mangal Dham Mandir: Sprawling over an area of two acres and built in 1993, Mangal Dham is considered to be one of the most splendid temples in India.
Places to visit: The MacFarlane Church: a testimony of the Scottish missionaries' influence and a monument of Kalimpong's diverse history, Dr. Graham's Home, which was founded in 1880 by Dr. John A.
How to Get There: Foreigners visiting Kalimpong must possess an Indian visa. No special permit is required for either traveling or trekking inside Kalimpong.
Durpin Dara: an observatory point from where a truly spectacular view of the Himalayas can be enjoyed. This along with the panoramic view of the Teesta and Relli rivers, and the plains far below, provide visitors with a memorable sight.
Local Transport: Tourist cars, tourist mini coaches and taxis are available for transfer of passengers between Kalimpong and Siliguri/New Jalpaiguri Junction/ Bagdogra.
Zong Dhog Palri Fo Brang monastery: Situated near Durpin Dara is another attraction of the area. Tharpa Choeling monastery, built in 1937, belongs to the yellow hut sect of lamas and is another must see. Pedong monastery: Built around 1837, is of Bhutanese origin, while a kilometer away is the historical Bhutanese fort of Damsang, an important landmark of the area before the main town of Kalimpong came into prominence.
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Air: Bagdogra Airport is 80 km (3 hours) from Kalimpong. Road: Kalimpong is connected with all weather metalled road with Siliguri, Gangtok, Darjeeling etc. Rail: The closest Railhead is at New Jalpaiguri which is around 77 km away from Kalimpong.
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also the place where the great saint Vashishth lived and performed a yagna (sacrificial worship on a fire pit) to create four Agnikula (four clans of fire) to protect the earth from demons. The yagna was supposed to have been performed near a natural spring, which emerged from a rock shaped like a cow's head. According to another legend, once sage Vashishth's cow Nandini was trapped in a deep gorge and could not free herself. The sage appealed to Lord Shiva for assistance. The Lord sent Saraswati, the divine stream, to help flood the gorge so that the cow could float up. Vashishth then decided to ensure that such mishaps did not occur in future. He asked the youngest son of Himalaya, the king of mountains to fill the chasm permanently. This he did with the assistance of Arbud, the mighty snake. This spot came to be known as Mount Arbud and was later changed to its present form - Mount Abu. This place is held in reverence by Jains as well since Jain scriptures record that Lord Mahavira, the 24th Jain Tirthankar (spiritual leader), also visited Mount Abu and blessed the city.
T
he history of Mount Abu is as diverse as the city itself. It was once a part of the Chauhan kingdom of Rajasthan and served as a summer resort for the Rajput kings of the region. After that, it was leased by the British government from the then Maharaja of Sirohi for use as the headquarter of the resident to Rajputana (another name for Rajasthan). During the British rule in India, it was the favourite summer destination of the British, who came here to escape the dusty, dry heat of the plains particularly Rajasthan. It also served as a sanatorium for the troops. The small huts and cottages here tell stories of those times even today. Mount Abu was the home of many saints and sages in the old days. Legend has it that all the 330 million gods and goddesses of the Hindu pantheon used to visit this holy mountain. It is
Places to see: There are a number of sites to visit in and around this small city. Besides being a hill station, Mount Abu is also regarded as an important pilgrimage site, with the Dilwara Jain temples, ashrams of saints and some Hindu temples within its boundaries. The landscapes, mountains and the holy Nakki Lake are some of the sites that would make the trip to this place a delight. How to reach By Air: Udaipur is the nearest airport. Daily flight form Delhi, Mumbai and Jaipur are available to Udaipur. By Bus: Rajasthan Roadways run very comfortable deluxe buses from Jaipur and Abu Road to Mount Abu. It is also connected by road to Delhi, Udaipur, Ajmer, Bundi and Udaipur. By Train: Abu Road is the nearest railway station and is about 22 kms from Mount Abu. And well connected by Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Mumbai and Jodhpur.
July 2009 I 36 I KonnecTV
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!
Amritsari Fish Buy Chef Kapoorís
PARTY COOKING by logging onto www.sanjeevkapoor.com
Brown Rice
Ingredients :King fish (surmai) fillets, cut into fingers: 600 grams, Red chilli powder: 1 tablespoon, Salt: to taste, Carom seeds (Ajwain): 1 teaspoon, Ginger paste: 2 tablespoons, Garlic paste: 2 tablespoons, Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon, Gram flour (besan): 1 cup, Oil: to deep fry, Egg: 1, Chaat masala: 1 teaspoon, Lemons, cut into wedges: 2 Method :Take the fish fingers in a bowl. Add red chilli powder, salt, carom seeds, ginger paste, garlic paste, lemon juice, gram flour and mix well. Set aside.Heat sufficient oil in a kadai. Break an egg into the fish mixture and mix. Put the fingers, a few at a time, into the hot oil and deep fry till almost done. Drain and place on an absorbent paper. Deep fry again just before serving till golden and crisp. Drain and place on an absorbent paper. serve hot with lemon wedges. July 2009 I 38 I KonnecTV
Ingredients: Rice: 1 1/2 cups, Ghee: 4 tablespoons, Onions, sliced: 2 large, Sugar: 3 tablespoons, Cloves: 6-8, Cinnamon: 2 inch stick, Salt: to taste
Method :Soak rice in sufficient water for thirty minutes. Drain and set aside.Heat ghee in a pan and sautÈ sliced onions till brown. In another pan heat sugar and one tablespoon of water on medium heat and allow to caramelize. Add cloves and cinnamon to the browned onions and stir. Add rice and sautÈ for two to three minutes. When the caramel is ready add four cups of water to it. Mix and add the caramel liquid to the rice. Add salt to taste. Mix. Reduce heat, cover and cook till done. Serve hot with Dhansak.
Crossword
Horoscope ARIES: You will make a very sound investment this month. Spouse should have better luck too. You may ultimately change your mind and visit a holy place with family. Money will come and disappear as usual. TAURUS: Jupiter moving into tenth will cause some changes in career soon. You will start exploring other options and that's the way to deal with situation. Money wise you will continue to stay comfortable for the time being. GEMINI: You will be aggressive and it will get many jobs done. Value of your assets and stocks will start creeping upwards. There will be progress in negotiations and soon you will sign that big contract. CANCER: You will become very diplomatic and it will help a lot in getting the work done. Planets continue to improve your image and self confidence. You will be able to help many with your expertise. LEO: Your concerns about a child not doing so well will grow bigger. Contract will increase revenues and reduce stress in mind. You will be seriously looking to diversify.
Across 1. Angry young man - still going strong (7) 4. Guru ties the knot(8) 7. Muscles and brawn don't hide the soft heart of this Jodha's Akhar (7) 10. She got the Big B touch and retains the glamour and style even today (5) 11. 'Bheege Hont Tere' and murder shot this young lad into the lime light (6) 12. Woh Saat Din has turned into so many lamhe for this evergreen actor (4) 15. Three blind mice 'she' made them run (8) 17. Buffly and dimpled - She pretty (6) 18. No need of Mosquito repellent with him around (4)
Down 1. Prettiest woman on earth - no world (3) 2. Veeru Bhai's son not to he seen lately (4) 3. The heat of the hot seat will not melt the wax statue at Madame Tussand's (8) 5. 'Big Brother's' no so little 'sister' (5) 6. Dream girl as MoM and granm---- as Dad (8) 8. Groovy looking macho male , especially on motor bikes (11) 9. Chote Nawaf - the cartoonist (4) 10. Vilas Rao Deshmukh's - 'Aankhon Ka Tara' (7) 12. Twinkle Twinkle little star - his wife (6) 13. Ready to make grandpha's sit up - with this eyeful (4) 14. Katrina had a little lamb, but its fleece was that of a trouble rouser (5) 16. Good looking dude - Mehr Jessia's other half (5)
VIRGO: Planets will bring the energy back. You will make good use of time on hand and explore new business opportunities. Competition will reduce but will not help you that much. LIBRA: Professional hurdles will get out of your way and you will start to see things more clearly from now and on. You will be able to meet commitments and still have some left in your pockets. SCORPIO: Money loaned to others or a refund will come. You may twist facts little bit for big financial gains. There will be improvement on other fronts also and issues stuck for some time will start moving in right direction. SAGITTARIUS: Twisting facts a little bit will bring in extra cash but the money will not stay. Some issues causing stress in the mind will get solved with a younger person. CAPRICORN: Things will continue to be strong at work and you will narrowly escape the bad. You will meet few important people and get the assurance quickly. Money will go on entertaining others. AQUARIUS: You will be torn between right and wrong and end up having temporary fun in life. You will have chance to learn a lot from experts. You will be calling overseas more frequently. PISCES: You will be tempted to make a big investment and go for the property too. Speculation and lottery will be profitable. You will spend more time on phone and get the jobs done.
By "Pandit Parashar"
July 2009 I 40 I KonnecTV
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