TGS Life 26/09/2015

Aniruddha Rajandekar

PUNE, september 26, 2015 | www.thegoldensparrow.com

Mommy knows best, always Get a cheesecake massage this weekend

‘Love your body, don’t imitate others’

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So you think you can dance?

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TGS LIFE SEPTEMBER 26, 2015 PUNE

STAGE Putting his acting skills to optimal use, Vaibhav Mangle will soon be seen in the lead role as an actress in a Marathi television series

He is busy playing a woman

By Salonee Mistry @Sal0412

E

very ardent Marathi movie fan knows and loves Shakal from Timepass. The same actor is also seen time and again on the comedy show Fu Bai Fu and is loved even more. Vaibhav Mangle is a man of many talents. With innumerable movies, plays and television shows in his kitty, this actor is tuned to adapt to any role offered to him. Just before his new show Majhe Pati Saubhagyavati is scheduled to air, Vaibhav spares time from his busy schedule to tell us about his journey as an actor, his new show and why he loves acting.

Comedy is not a difficult genre, if you are a good actor, tells us Vaibhav.

It’s all about getting the timing correct.

Then, anything is possible. Fulfilling a childhood dream of becoming an actor, Vaibhav has been an active part of the stage, small as well as big screen for about 14 years now. “Acting is in my blood.

My grandfather and my parents used to act in plays and I grew up seeing them perform.

My first love ho w e v e r

was singing and I got to pursue it when I sang a song in Timepass 2,� says Vaibhav. It feels good to have accomplished and done well in something that he had no professional training for but was passionate about, the actor adds.

Following his inspiration, Utpal Datta the legend who is known for his roles in Gol Maal (1979) and Rang Birangi (1983), Vaibhav loves the fact that an actor gets to live a double life. He believes that the ordinary life helps one become a better actor while the actor helps enrich ordinary life and makes one a better human being.

Different kind of scripts, genres and platforms allow actors to experiment with their capabilities. This, Vaibhav says, is the most crucial aspect to growing up, irrespective of your profession.

Playing an out-of-job actor, who is talented but unwilling to compromise, in his upcoming serial, Vaibhav swears that Marathi television has never seen anything of this sort before. In the serial, he plays two characters one of the stereotypical husband and the other of an actress. Playing the lead role in the serial as a woman, Vaibhav is extremely excited to see what the response would be. Ask him what is the most difficult part of playing a

woman and he shrugs his shoulders and shakes his head in denial. “It was not at all difficult to portray a woman.

I have played the role of a woman earlier and this was just like that. The only difference being that this has more on-screen time. I am, however, extremely excited about the script as it

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is something different from the other shows on the television and I wish it gets the appreciation it deserves from the audience as well,� says a hopeful Vaibhav.

Vaibhav’s new show is all set to air on Zee Marathi from Monday. salonee.mistry@goldensparrow.com

Lucky Puneite wins ticket to Rio music fest Abhimanyu Negi is headed to Brazil for the 2015 edition of the legendary Rock in Rio music festival

By Sudheer Gaikwad @TGSWeekly

A

bhimanyu Singh Negi is busy packing his bags and making sure the camera on hand is working perfectly. He’ll need the camera to capture moments when he travels to Rio, Brazil. After all, it’s it everyday that you are in possession of tickets to Rock in Rio Brazil, the legendary music festival that began in 1985. The Puneite will be in Brazil from September 24 to 27.

Understandably thrilled, Abhimanyu says, “I am super excited to win the Pepsi Challenge Rock in Rio contest and travel to the most epic music festival. Being a music lover, this is something that I have dreamed of and I will not just be one of the crowd, but actually get VIP access and an incredible experience. To top it all, I will get to hang out with Jerome Jarre, the social media sensation who is one of my favourites.�

The 2015 edition of Rock in Rio will feature the biggest music acts on the planet, such as Metallica, Motley Crue, Korn, Krow and Republica,

besides electronica stars Crookers, Headhunterz, and streetdance groups like Rock in Rio dance crew and Reflex Urbano.

Roberto Medina created one of the largest festivals in the world in Brazil. The year was 1985. The fi rst festival took place in Rio de Janeiro.

The City of Rock hosted 1,380,000 people over the course of ten days.

The line-up included Queen, AC/ DC, James Taylor, George Benson, Rod Stewart, Yes, Ozzy Osbourne and Iron Maiden, and top Brazilian stars like Gilberto Gil, Elba

Ramalho and Rita Lee. Rock in Rio 1991 saw the first visit of Guns N’ Roses to Brazil. Prince and George Michael received many compliments from critics for their impeccable performances. The lineup also had INXS, Joe Cocker, and Megadeth.

The Rio de Janeiro, 2001, line-up marked the return of Iron Maiden and Guns N’ Roses and brought in the Foo Fighters, REM, Neil Young, Queens of The Stone Age, Oasis. There was even a day dedicated to pop with Britney Spears, N Sync and others.

Rock in Rio took to the air and landed in Portugal. Lisbon had its own City of Rock in 2004. Paul McCartney opened the festival. The list of performers included Metallica, Peter Gabriel, Alicia Keys, Black Eyed Peas, Britney Spears, Foo Fighters and Kings Of Leon.

Rock in Rio Lisbon 2006 featured Guns N’ Roses, Jamiroquai, Kasabian, Roger Waters, Santana, Shakira and Sting.

In 2008, Rock in Rio returned to Portugal, and a new destination, Spain. On stage were names like Metallica, Bon Jovi, Linkin Park and Amy Winehouse, Lenny Kravitz, Neil Young, Bob Dylan, Franz Ferdinand, and Shakira.

In 2010, Rock in Rio in Portugal had a line-up including Elton John, Rammstein, John Mayer, Snow Patrol, MotĂśrhead and Megadeth. At the second edition of Rock in Rio in Spain, the City of Rock hosted Bon Jovi, Rage Against The Machine, MotĂśrhead, John Mayer, Cypress Hill, Rihanna, and electronic music: of TiĂŤsto, Paul Van Dyk and David Guetta.

In 2011, Rock in Rio disembarked

in Rio de Janeiro. Memorable moments included Stevie Wonder singing ‘Garota de Ipanema’ with his daughter, Aisha Morris.

In 2012 Rock in Rio was in Lisbon and a line-up including Metallica, Smashing Pumpkins, Stevie Wonder, Evanescence, Lenny Kravitz and Bryan Adams. Spain brought big names from electronic music like Deadmau5, Carl Cox, David Guetta, Swedish House Mafia and Erick Morillo and Red Hot Chili Peppers, Lenny Kravitz, ManĂĄ and Incubus.

Rock in Rio 2013, in Rio de Janeiro featured BeyoncĂŠ, David Guetta, Justin Timberlake, Florence and The Machine, Metallica, Slayer, Avenged Sevenfold and Iron Maiden.

2014 Rock in Rio Lisbon had a dance party hosted by Robbie Williams, the big voice of Lorde, the guitars of Queens of the Stone Age and Linkin Park. There was also a show from the Rolling Stones and Bruce Springsteen jammed with them to make history.

We’re sure the 2015 edition of Rock in Rio will rock just as hard. sudheer.gaikwad@goldensparrow.com

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Get a cheesecake massage this weekend

Ayurvedic and Thai massages are oh-so-passé, it’s now time to indulge in some delicious, exotic and soulful spa treats. Are you ready to get cheesecake, chocolate, mango, salt and red rice slathered onto yourself?

Blueberry Cheesecake massage kit

By Heena Grover Menon @HeenaGM

R

ecently, we were in for a pleasant surprise when we heard about the blueberry cheesecake spa that’s now available in the spa menus in some of the popular spas in the city. Here’s how our search for places which offer totally off beat experiences began.

The first question that may pop in your mind would be if it’s the actual cheesecake that they use for the massage. Thankfully, no! This special treat by Seven Seas Spa is especially created for women who love to try things a little hat ke, says Te-

jal Bhartiya who started the franchise of the noted spa in the city a few months ago. “Whether it’s food or shopping, women love to indulge and experiment and this is exactly what we want to give our clients with our special spa treatments that don’t just sound sinful, but are absolutely rejuvenating,” she says.

The tension-taming massage begins with an amazing skin softening nut scrub containing vanilla extracts, followed by cheese cream to make your skin supple. The massage relaxes and targets the most troubled areas. The finale of the treatment includes a soft massage of blueberry gel with olive extracts for

Crystal healing by Dr Kedar Joshi

an instant radiance. Other than the cheesecake therapy, the spa which is located off SB Road, also offers a chocolate fondue massage wherein they use a luxurious cocoa cream.

The mango is well past its season, but there’s always a time for you to indulge in a delightful fruity massage. This fresh treatment called Mango Organic Enzyme Indulgence is a signature therapy that Skah Body Opulence, located in Koregaon Park, offers. Talking about this treatment, Dr Sheetal Jalori, a visiting skin specialist at the spa, says, “This therapy includes a natural mango body wrap made using clay. It’s kept on the body for 20 minutes and then washed off. The wrap, infused with fruits, supplies antioxidants, vitamins and exfoliates the skin gently.”

At Aristo Spa at DoubleTree

by Hilton, Chinchwad, ask for the very unique massage, which uses organic rice paste. The chemical-free massage paste is made from finely ground pure organic red rice mixed with rose water. Not only does the rice paste allow long flowing massage movements on the skin, but it also leaves the skin soft and smooth as it removes dead skin and improves blood circulation.

Moving on from exotic treats, if you are looking for a detoxifying, cellulite breaker or lymph drainage treatment, then the slender body treatment is something you must try out. People usually notice cellulite appearing on the stomach. The dimpled skin texture that characterises cellulite is due to the presence of a layer of fat accumulating under the skin and pushing up against strands of connective tissue fibres that anchor the skin to the muscle layer underneath. “In this treatment, marine spray mist is applied on exfoliate the body. A wrap of thermo reducing clay is then put on the body which is followed by an application of reshaping serum that promotes the restructuring of tissue to decrease the appearance of cellulite. Finally a cellulite sculptor is applied along with contouring marine body wrap,” says Darshana Sawale the spa manager at Heavenly Spa, The Westin, Koregaon Park.

If you have sore muscles and sports strains, then Oceanic Body Wrap Theory at Aesthetics Medispa, Model Colony, is your best bet.

In the therapy, the body is wrapped in medicinal products and accom-

zainab kantawala

TGS LIFE

panied by massage and hydrotherapy. It is designed to improve the texture and appearance of the skin by improving blood circulation, removing excess fluid and toxins from the body. It also provides perfect relaxation. The 150-minute therapy exfoliates the skin and allows absorption of nutrients from the warm sea mud.

“The products used for this treatment are sea mint bath crystal and sea mint moisturising cream along with a tension-release massage oil. We have highly experienced and skilled therapists who work on individual needs after understanding a client’s body type,” says Dr Ashish Davalbhakta.

For a more soulful healing experience, the spa at Hyatt Pune, Kalyani Nagar, offers special Rei-

ki sessions by spiritual healer Dr Kedar Joshi. The Crystal Healing technique provided by Dr Kedar is meant to initiate a specific effect on the energy balance of a person’s chakras, meridians, energy, organs and emotions. “The research on crystal therapy has been done with many layouts. For example the ‘Seal of Solomon’ layout can be used to relieve pain or stress. Six quartz points in a star formation can be placed around a painful spot. A malachite stone can be placed in the centre to accelerate the dispersal of energy. Another layout called ‘The figure of eight’ uses quartz crystals in the shape of a figure of eight to increase the movement of the body’s electromagnetic energy where it has become sluggish,” he explains. heena.grover@goldensparrow.com

Chocolate fondue massage kit

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TGS LIFE | SEPTEMBER 26, 2015 | PUNE

TGS LIFE SEPTEMBER 26, 2015 PUNE

indulge

‘I don’t want to make cooking a full-time career’

She does not cook for money or fame.

To Renae Smith, cooking is all about her love for food and flavours

By Salonee Mistry

@Sal0412

A

chic blonde hairdo, ink all over and a charismatic charm, Renae Smith has so much more to her than just being an amazing cook. Travelling to India, for the third time this year, the Masterchef Australia season six contestant was spotted in the city last Sunday.

A master class, a barbeque session and judging a cooking competition at the Classic Rock Coffee Co, at Kalyani Nagar, kept her busy the entire day.

In a candid conversation with TGS, Renae talks about her love for Indian food and why she doesn’t want to pursue cooking as a full-time career.

Recollecting her first experience in the kitchen when she was 18 years old, the selfavowed vegan, ironically, cooked roast chicken for the first time. Renae loves cooking for her daughters and is delighted to see that her elder daughter has started cooking too. She promises that she tries experimenting every single time she is in the kitchen and urges everyone, who cooks, to do so too.

Renae believes that the best part of being in the kitchen is the opportunity to showcase one’s creativity, right from whipping the dish up to plating it. After working with a law firm, the kitchen would be her only solace to unleash her creative side. Currently working as a PR agent back home, Renae does not want to become a full-time chef. “In Australia, being a chef does not pay very well. You work double the hours and you go to the kitchen to make the same things every day. My current job has much more flexible working hours, I can be creative with my work and it pays higher as well. I am happy cooking just for myself and my family,” she says.

Although she might not know the recipe to dishes from the Indian cuisine, an undeterred Renae give it a try anyway. “All the Indian spices are amazing and good to go with almost everything. Anytime I am cooking I just add all the spices I find and voila I have a stunning dish, rich in flavours and ready to serve,” Renae tells us.

The trick to cooking good food, she reveals, is that you never follow the recipe in the book, instead put your thoughts to the ingredients and make your own dish.

If she does ever enter the culinary world, making it a career choice, Renae hopes to open a vegan café that has a different menu every day. She wants to see the ingredients that the kitchen has on a particular day and decide what to cook. She knows that this will make the mundane job much more fun and challenging.

YOUR CHOW AROUND TOWN The Tigris Trail Tigris, a branch of the mystical river flowing out of the Garden of Eden, has brought with it various succulent cuisines in its surrounding regions namely Turkey, Syria and Iran. Seasonal tastes brings to you the fresh and eclectic flavours from around the Tigris River. Dig into the zingy flavours of Mediterranean cuisine for a gourmet experience to remember.

When: Till October 11 Where: Seasonal Tastes, Westin, Koregaon Park

Get Set to celebrate ‘Oktobrewfest’

roof from Paulaner Original to Erdinger Weissbier to Schneider Weisse, get set to pour some of the great classics from Germany. Get your friends along and taste the slice of Bavarian life with the largest collection of German Beers, food, music and festivities.

If you are a Chicken fan, you must try the Chicken Platter that is a combination of Chicken Nuremberg Sausages, Spiced Chicken sausages, Coleslaw, Roasted Corn, Potato Wedges and Mustard. If you love your Pork the German way, try out the Pork Sausage platter with Garlic Krakauer, German style smoked cheese sausages, curly sausages, Coleslaw, Raosted corn and Potato Wedges.

When: Till October 31 Where: The Beer Café, Koregaon Park

Celebrate the Oktoberfest

The Beer Café is all set to roll out the barrels, lift up the spirits to add some ‘Beery’ twist to the Oktober fest, 2015.

They are offering the largest collection of authentic German brews under one

Four Points by Sheraton Pune is celebrating one of the Largest Volksfest (People’s Fair) in the world- Oktoberfest.

Enjoy this merry festival as you sip on refreshing Erdinger beer with your friends and family. Relish a special menu including mouthwatering dishes like Chicken Bratwurst, Potato Pancake with cheese & chives, Beer Roast Chicken, Oktoberfest Strudel along with scrummy sauces like Bavarian beer sauce, honey mustard, creamy mushroom and more!

When: From September 26 to October 4 Where: Four Points by Sheraton, Nagar Road

Oktoberfest at Fishbowl

Say cheers to beery times as Fishbowl at Hyatt Pune brings to you the most celebrated festival for all beer drinkers – Oktoberfest! The traditional beer drinking festival from Germany begins tomorrow

and the non-vegetarian options. Spice Kitchen will serve vegetarian as well nonvegetarian dishes whereas Shakahari will serve only vegetarian menu in the restaurant. Taste the symphony of Indian flavours with traditional dishes like Boti Kebab, Chicken Tikka, Hariyali Kebab, Galauti Kebab, Tangri Kebab, Dahi Ke Kebab, Reshmi Kebab, Shikampur Kebab and Biryanis like Mutton Biryani, Chicken Biryani, Fish Biryani. Shakahari will offer delicacies like Shami Kebab, Paneer Kebab and various delectable vegetarian biryanis.

The menu will be switched every four days.

When: Till September 29 Where: Spice Kitchen and Shakahari, JW Marriott Hotel, Senapati Bapat Road

Italian Grills Festival at Fishbowl and will feature beer and traditional German food pairings. Feast on juicy sausages, tangy sauerkraut, salty pretzels, German-style old beer-battered fish, chicken schnitzel, mustard baby potatoes and much more. Enjoy all this with foot-tapping live music.

When: Till October 4 Where: Fishbowl, Hyatt Pune, Kalyani Nagar

Kebab Biryani and Curry Festival

Spice Kitchen and Shakahari will feature the festival over dinner with vegetarian

The Italian grilled preparation is a simple method to cook meat. Preserving the flavours and eating just simply the product.

Adding lemon or olive oil to meats is the perfect way to season the dish. Starters like Prosciutto di parma, Focaccia al rosmarino, Carne like Costine di molale, Poletto alla birra and Pesce like Salmone scozzese, Spigola Chilena will be seen on the menu list.

The Festival will offer an a la carte menu designed by the Italian Expat Chef Christian Huber. Some of the signature dishes are Aragosta, Salmone, felleto di bufala, to name a few.

When: Till September 27 Where: Alto-Vino, JW Marriott Hotel, Senapati Bapat Road

RENAE SHARES TWO SPECIAL RECIPES FOR YOU TO TRY OUT AT HOME

LEMON MERINGUE PIE Ingredients For the tart shell 500g flour 250g butter icing sugar 1 egg yolk

TGS LIFE

COCONUT SAGO PUDDING Ingredients ¾ cup sago 2 cups coconut milk 1 cup cold water ½ cup coconut sugar ¼ cup flaked coconut ¼ cup flaked almonds 3 tablespoons coconut cream large pinch of salt flakes.

For the filling 1 cup white sugar 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 3 tablespoons cornstarch 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 1/2 cups water 2 lemons, zested and juiced 2 tablespoons butter 4 egg yolks, beaten For the Meringue 4 egg whites 6 tablespoons white sugar Method for tart shell Preheat oven to 180 degrees C. Mix flour with icing sugar and rub in butter until it resembles bread crumbs (you can also use a food processor) Add egg yolk and enough water to bring it together.

Then, chill in fridge.

Method for lemon filling In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1 cup sugar, flour, cornstarch, and salt.

Stir in water, lemon juice and lemon zest. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until mixture comes to a boil. Stir in butter. Place egg yolks in a small bowl and gradually whisk in 1/2 cup of hot sugar mixture. Whisk egg yolk mixture back into remaining sugar mixture.

Bring to a boil and continue to cook while stirring

constantly until thick. Remove from heat. Pour fi lling into baked pastry shell.

Method for Meringue In a large glass or metal bowl, whip egg whites until foamy. Add sugar gradually, and continue to whip until stiff peaks form.

Spread meringue over pie, sealing the edges at the crust.

Bake in a preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.

SEPTEMBER 26, 2015 PUNE

INDULGE a pan and heat until melted and bubbling – like toffee.

When it turns a dark amber colour, add the coconut cream (be careful, it will

Method Place sago, coconut milk and 1 cup cold water in a heavybased saucepan. Stand for 30 minutes to soak. Heat sago mixture over medium heat. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low. Cook, stirring often, for 10 to 15 minutes or until sago is tender. Remove from heat.

Stir in a few tablespoons of coconut sugar (to taste).

Spoon sago mixture between four glasses. Cover with a plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 15 minutes or until slightly chilled. Meanwhile, roast coconut and almonds in the oven until just golden. Place remaining coconut sugar in

bubble). Remove from heat.

Place the salt, almonds and coconut into the pan and stir through – use this mixture to top the sago pudding.

salonee.mistry@goldensparrow.com

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TGS LIFE

Mona with son Krishay

FEATURES

By Heena Grover Menon @HeenaGM

B

eing a mother is a full-time job but many first-time mothers find it difficult to strike a balance between their personal and professional lives, which eventually leads to frustration. It’s important to remember though that this is a phase that every mother goes through.

The idea is to let go of your fears and take on each day as it comes. We meet wonder moms from the city, who have managed to strike a balance and remain unvanquished.

They share first-hand experiences from the day they became mothers and how the challenges prepared them to be stronger with time.

It’s not the end, but a new beginning When Tia Saluja, popularly known s MJ Tia, decided to have a child after five years of marriage, she knew exactly how she wanted her life to be. She is one of the most successful radio jockeys in the city and believes that one must never stop following one’s passion. Eventually, she points out, everything depends on how good you are at organising things. “I got married in 2009 and moved to Pune. For me, fortunately everything happened as I had envisioned. I love my job, travelling, and partying as much as I knew that once I have a child, there would be some restraints in my lifestyle. When I finally had Kabeer (her eight-month-old son), it not only brought along happiness but a new lease of confidence that I could do so much more than just being a working professional.�

Divya Bansal, 28, who switched careers from being a marketing executive to a full-time business woman, post the arrival of her one-year-two-monthold son, Ashwath, agrees with Tia. “I had a very demanding job and after becoming a mother, the focus shifted to my son. I didn’t want to lose out on the time when a child needs the mother the most, so I decided to quit my job. At the same time, I did not want to be tagged as a housewife. I always wanted to do something of my own, so while sitting at home, I thought why not start now.�

Divya has always been a shopaholic, and after Ashwath was born, she realised that there are very few good places where one can buy good quality kurta pyjmas for toddlers. Th is is where the idea of starting a custom-made online apparel store came into being. She did a trial run and created some unique clothes for babies that received outstanding response from her friends. Ever since, orders have not stopped pouring in. “All this happened because of my son. He inspired me to do something new and different. In fact, he is my partner whenever I have to go out shopping for fabrics or meet tailors around the city,� smiles Divya.

Prioritise and be positive It’s true that life gets restricted to a certain extent when you have a toddler around since everything you do revolves around your child but you can still have fun and do your own thing amidst the hustle and bustle. In fact, many new mothers have found a way to include their children in their scheme of things.

33-year-old Snigdha Jayesh Bhatia, mother to two-year-old Rudved, says, “I am an interior designer and a bike enthusiast.

I love travelling a lot so when I became a mother, I had to take a break from going out on my regular expeditions.

After around four months of sitting at home, I decided that I could no longer stay home and began taking up

Divya with son Ashwath

projects. But restarting work meant leaving my son behind, which was not a very pleasant idea. So I started taking up smaller projects where I could take my son along for site visits. To my surprise, my son didn’t get cranky at all. He, in fact, enjoys staying outdoors more than I do. That’s when I realised that it was not that difficult after all.�

It was no looking back for Snigdha after that but, as the work pressure started increasing, she felt that it was time she found a good day care centre. “My husband has to travel across the country due to his job, and my parents stay in a different city.

Although my in-laws live in Pune, it gets difficult at times to handle a child as they too are ageing. I was fortunate that I found a great crèche for my son, where I can leave him without worrying. I always wanted my child to be socially active so a good day care where he could be around children of his age was my idea of introducing him to the outside world. I detest the idea of keeping your child indoors in his growing years as it limits the all over growth,� adds Snigdha.

For a working mother, it’s very important to prioritise tasks for a smooth sail. The mothers we met have learnt as much from their experiences. So when Mona Dahibhate Pandit, 31, became a mother to Krishay four months ago, she began planning ahead from day one about her future course of action.

Mona is the assistant branch manager of a PR company in the city and being the head of her team, she was asked to join back work in less than four months after she delivered her baby. “I wanted to spend some time with my son and also needed time to recover, but given my situation, I had to get back to work. It was the most difficult time for me as my child was too young. I couldn’t even breastfeed him properly, which was the worst thing, but I took everything in my

Mommy knows best, always

SEPTEMBER 26, 2015 PUNE

PICS BY ANIRUDDHA RAJANDEKAR

SEPTEMBER 26, 2015 PUNE

TGS LIFE

Nikita with daughter Anika

FEATURES

stride and started thinking positively.

There was a drastic change in my lifestyle.

I stopped socialising much and staying out late was simply out of the question. I miss the freedom I had but being a mother teaches you great lessons the most important being how to be organised. It was a draining period but slowly things started getting back on track. In time, between juggling a home and a career, I realised that if you are dedicated and love your work, you will sail through no matter what,� she explains.

Don’t stop dreaming According to Nikita Patwari, 26, whose daughter Anika is now one-and-half years old, motherhood has only brought a lot of fun along with some challenges, of course.

She was a lecturer at an engineering college, but after becoming a mother she

Snigdha with son Rudved Tia with son Kabeer

felt she had to get back to shape and that’s when she decided to start her own fitness centre. Her little tot even became part of her endeavour by accompanying her mother almost every day. “Anika loves to play around when I am at work it’s great to have her around as I don’t have to worry about leaving her alone at home or with a nanny, which I dread. A lot of my friends who have babies are scared of the idea of taking their toddlers out as they feel, they won’t be able to manage them and that one can’t have fun when they have to constantly look after the child, but it’s not true. Barring a few occasions, I take my daughter everywhere – movies, restaurants, shopping.�

Snigdha and Tia second the idea saying that it’s a must to take your children out often, as restricting them to the four

walls only makes them cranky and then it gets very difficult to handle them when they see a lot of people suddenly. Tia says, “Everything depends on your own mindset. I have never stopped doing things I did before. I took a five month break and then got back to work, as it keeps me sane.

I go out with friends and take my son along for lunches too. He also comes to my studio very regularly and I take a short break to play with him and feed him as I didn’t want to compromise on that at all.� “I started riding my bike again six months ago and now I’ve begun taking my son on rides too. My son loves travelling so it makes our lives all the more easier.

We recently went on a short trip to Goa. It was our fi rst trip with him and we were very sceptical how he will take it but, to our surprise, he had a great time playing on the beach and roaming about in the car without causing any trouble,� adds Snigdha.

The support system Having parents and in-laws around not just make the journey a lot easier for parents but also help inculcate values in children from an early age. Calling it a boon, Nikita says, “My mother-in-law has always been around for my daughter and since I got married early, I didn’t know much about handling a child alone. It was her love and support that helped me adapt to things so seamlessly.�

Tia adds, “I have a nanny at home, who takes care of my son when I am not around during the day, but it’s my motherin-law who keeps a check on everything, right from his food to his nap time. So I don’t really have to worry about what’s happening when I am not home.� heena.grover@goldensparrow.com

TGS LIFE SEPTEMBER 26, 2015 PUNE

THRILL OF DRIVING

DSK Benelli announces limited-run TNT 600i in gold

Cheapest inline-4 in India gets dearer for the bling

T

he Benelli TNT 600i is notable enough for it’s price/performance ratio. It’s an honest inline-4 with the wail that we love so much, makes a decent amount of power, looks the business and is well-specified. At an ex-showroom price of under six lac, it’s also the cheapest entry into the four-cylinder club. But what if you really like the package, but would prefer a bit more bling? A visual touch that would attract attention at the club, the corner, or possibly from the stratosphere? DSK Benelli have you covered with the limitededition TNT 600i, in a very festive gold

paintjob. Even the levers are gold! Available starting October 3 for an ex-showroom Pune price of Rs 5,66,000, it comes just in time for the Diwali shopping season when we traditionally buy... well, gold. When in Rome/Pune...

To be fair to the bike, it’s a very sorted handler and one of the only bikes in the price bracket to have an adjustable rear suspension, shared across the 600 and 300 range. The motor remains unchanged, which is a docile unit while pottering around town and delivering all of its 85bhp and 54.6Nm of torque beyond 10,500rpm.

Ford puts safety first in new Figo

Standard driver airbag, upto six on top variants

F

ord is following up on the impressive feature list in its Aspire sedan with the new Figo, which claims to be the only hatchback in India to offer up to six airbags. Available in three engine options: a 1.2 88PS petrol, a 1.5 100PS diesel and a 1.5 112PS petrol automatic, the new Figo starts at Rs 4,29,000 ex-Delhi.

The new Figo succeeds the old, awkwardly-styled hatch with this all-new, Aston-esque front fascia and much sleeker design. We particularly like how the rear window flows to the C-pillar, lending a very sporty stance to the small

hatchback. Ford claims 2491mm wheelbase for good legroom and a 174mm ground clearance. The hatch, like its sedan brethren, comes loaded with technology, including Ford MyDOCK, which allows for easy stowage and charging of your device, Ford SYNC with App Link which enables you to integrate your smartphone into the entertainment system of the car, and doubles up as an emergency beacon in the event of a mishap.

While other manufacturers are going the cheaper route, using automated manual transmissions for their low-cost cars, Ford is going

the other way, offering a proper 6-speed dual-clutch ‘PowerShift’ auto on the 1.5-litre petrol engine

variant. The company claims the automatic delivers 17kmpl and is backed by a ten-year, 100,000km

warranty for those who may be put off by the potential running cost of an automatic.

SUV-inspired Renault KWID launched at Rs 2,56,968

Claims to be most fuel-efficient petrol car in India

I

f the quirky, interesting, even imposing design of Renault’s SUV-inspired KWID didn’t impress you, then the price certainly will. Starting at Rs 2,56,968, Renault’s small hatchback takes the fight straight to the Maruti Alto’s door. Heck, it’s driving straight through the door with its dimensions and feature list! Using a similar 800cc, 3-cylinder engine, the KWID motor puts out 54PS and 72Nm of torque, beating its

obvious Maruti competitor.

Despite being a ‘small’ hatch, the KWID brings some interesting features to the table, which Renault claims are a segment-first. There’s a 7” touchscreen navigation system on offer, as is keyless entry. The car justifies the ‘SUV-inspired’ tag with a generous 180mm of ground clearance. Despite being just over 3.5 metres long, the KWID has a 300 litre boot, which should be enough for the

odd airport run. Renault keeps it quirky with an all-digital console on all variants, and a driver’s airbag is on offer in the top variant. There are also six “accessory packs” available for customers to tailor their vehicle to their specific needs.

Renault is offering a 2 year/50,000km warranty for the KWID, extendable to 4 years/80,000km. Complimentary roadside assistance is available for the first two years as well.

TGS LIFE

Find your kurta connect

SEPTEMBER 26, 2015 PUNE

FEATURES

Suki Kurti

By Zainab Kantawala @kantawalazainab

K

urta’s are the perfect combination of style, fashion and comfort. Women are generally afraid that ethnic wear can make them look plumper or older. But there are styles to suit all body types. Whether you need volume or want to look slimmer, all you have to do is pick the right kurta.

Baxter Kurti This full sleeve kurti with rust print can be teamed with straight cut pants, palazzo pants or skinny pants.

Price: Rs 1,899.00 Where: Global Desi outlets

Green Cotton Straight Kurta

This is cheerful 3/4th sleeve embroidered and flamingo motif printed kurti can be teamed with straightcut pants, palazzos or skinny pants for a day out with your family.

Price: Rs 2,299 Where: Global Desi outlets

Flaunt your love for ethnic wear by wearing this green coloured solid kurta. Made of cotton, this kurta will keep you at utmost ease all day long.

Price: Rs 999 Where: Rangriti, Big Bazaar

Cotton Mangalgiri Colour Block Long Kurta Casual meets chic with this cotton kurta. Wear it for a college class or office and team it with a white legging.

Price: Rs 1,590.00 Where: FabIndia outlets

Casual kurta Going ethnic was never so much fun. This kurta features an interesting print and embroidered neckline that simply brings out the best of the breezy silhouette. Team it up with salwar and you are sorted for the day.

Price: Rs 599 Where: Max outlets

Off White Cotton high-low Kurta This heavy yoke embroidered Kurta will give you an elegant look.

Price: Rs 1,399 Where: Biba outlets

Women Cotton Printed Kurta Allow yourself to look smarter this season with this kurta. The fine quality fabric will offer you ease and you will never face any hint of discomfort while wearing this piece.

Pair it with matching leggings.

Price: Rs 2799 Where: Haute Curry, Shoppers Stop

TGS LIFE SEPTEMBER 26, 2015 PUNE

FEATURES

So you think you can dance?

Suhas Salunkhe showing his Bboying moves

Hip Hop has managed to impress a lot of youth and dance lovers with its innovative choreography and style

By Salonee Mistry & Zainab Kantawala @Sal0412 @kantawalazainab

H

ip Hop dance is one of the most popular dance styles in the world today. It attracts a pretty huge fan-following among the youngsters all thanks to its appealing beats, rhythm and energetic steps.

A dance form that was once associated with funky haircuts, hoodies and heavy metal jewellery has now become a passion, with many youngsters enrolling into classes and hoping to make it a career option.

Quite a few of the hip hop dance crews have also evolved as byproducts of dance reality shows and fi lms like ‘Step Up’ and ‘Any Body Can Dance’. Dance terms, like popping, locking, and krumping, have moved away from their underground surroundings and become part of the regular lingo.

Meet city-based dance masters, who introduce us to some hip hop styles that are trending in the city.

BBOYING A bboy is someone who dances to the break beat of music. The music used for this type of dance is mainly hip hop and funk. “The beat patterns are important for this form of dance. One needs to perform with a sense of attitude

and aggressiveness. There are acrobatic moves like head spin, swipe, back spin etc.,” says Suhas.

Bboying is also known as ‘breakdancing’. The importance in this dance form is given to power moves that comprises of body spins and rotations that give the illusion of defying gravity. “Bboying was introduced very late in India, but now it is picking up very fast. The dance is all about the footwork, freeze, power moves, down rock and floor rock. It is very different from other hip hop styles,” he adds.

ABOUT THE DANCER: Suhas Salunkhe Hailing from a not-so-affluent section of the society, Suhas has masteresd the art form because of his passion and dedication towards achieving his dream.

He is best known for his Bboying moves and hopes to make it a career. This 20-year-old was the runner up at the Circle Master competition and has also won the ‘Pune Breaking Championship’.

KRUMPING This is one of the fastest growing styles of Hip Hop. The dance is mainly known for its free, expressive, and highly energetic movements. “Krumping was invented in the United States in the early 90’s to keep local gangs from fighting and to divert their energy positively through dance battles. The dance requires a lot of force and aggression,” says Dinit Roham, a performer.

There are four primary moves in krumping jabs, arm swings, chest pops, and stomps. It is a freestyle dance that cannot be choreographed. “Krumping involves physical contact between the dancers, which can sometimes be misinterpreted as a fight by the audience.

TGS LIFE

PICS BY ANIRUDDHA RAJANDEKAR AND RAHUL RAUT

SEPTEMBER 26, 2015 PUNE

FEATURES dancer must understand the rhythm and lyrics of the song. Performed mainly in studios, Lyrical Hip Hop is a perfect mix of the contemporary and commercial style of Hip Hop. The dancer should be fit as a high level of endurance and stamina are crucial for a good performance,” says performer Tejas Garbhe.

An emotional connection is the key to understanding the dance. “The dancers should be able to tell a story through their facial expressions, gestures, and body movements. Connecting with the audience is the central aspect of the dance form,” he adds.

Chandrakant Gaikwad cutting the beats with his robotic motion

The music too is very upbeat and fast-paced,” he adds.

ABOUT THE DANCER: Dinit Roham Even when he had a pretty tight schedule, while he was studying to complete his MBA, Dinit Roham continued dancing. Being one of the pioneering hip-hop dancers in Pune was no easy task. Dinit always wanted to become a chartered accountant but he does not quite remember how he changed his mind to pursue dance as a career.

All he knows is that he loves every minute of being on the dancefloor. His Hip Hop crew is among the fi rst few crews in the country. Dinit set up his academy, Xternal Force Dance Academy, at Karve Nagar in 2010.

ROBOTIC HIP HOP

Robotics gained popularity way back in the 80s after the release of the Michael Jackson song ‘Billie Jean’. In the video, dancers act like mannequins and portray a glazed look on their face. The slow paced body movements and lock and release of joints, defines the dance. “Robot dance is simply acting like a robot and doing stiff arm and head movements. The moves are usually in contrast with the flow of the music. The dance sometimes involves a blank stare and movements in slow motion,” says choreographer Chandrakant Gaikwad. Choreography depends on the pace of music. “The dance steps can be boosted with upbeat music. The electro funk genre is best if you want better visual effects,” he explains.

ABOUT THE DANCER: Chandrakant Gaikwad Chandrakant is a self-taught artist, who learned the hip hop dance, by watching YouTube videos. International artists have always been his inspiration. The dance fraternity in the city calls him Michael, because of his MJinspired dance moves. He teaches at the Stepz Studio in Wanowrie.

LYRICAL HIP HOP

Dinit Roham does a head stand while he is krumping

Th is dance style is a very recent development in the hip hop genre.

The dance is a blend of Jazz, Tap, Ballet and Contemporary dance, yet it stands out to be a different form. “Lyrical Hip Hop is one of the most difficult forms of Hip Hop. The

ABOUT THE DANCER: Tejas Garbhe Tejas was inclined towards dance since childhood. He has completed a postgraduate degree from Performing Arts College in London, on a full scholarship, and a bachelor’s degree in Musical Theatre Performing Arts. Perfecting moves like Bollywood thumkas, Tango lifts, Jive bounces and Hip Hop swag, Tejas started his very own dance academy, Myst Performing Arts at Deccan, three years ago.

STREET URBAN

Terence Anthony Joseph showing off his street urban skills

It is a blend of various elements from many different dance forms like popping, locking and bboying to elements of Jazz and Contemporary making it into a very fast, funky and exciting dance style. “It is more of a street style dance, a mix of Lyrical Hip Hop and Krumping, with more movements and gestures,” Terence Anthony Joseph explains.

The expressions and leg movements are very important in this dance form since they encourage interaction and contact with spectators. “Street Urban is peppy and catches the mood of a person. The dance became popular with the recent Bruno Mars song Uptown Funk,” he adds.

ABOUT THE DANCER: Terence Anthony Joseph He was one of the popular contestants of the dance reality show ‘Aaja Jhoom Le’ that was conducted by television channel. Terence was fascinated by Hip Hop when he was in school, when the dance was still catching up. The rhythm beats, and moves of Hip Hop mesmerised him. He then decided to learn the dance professionally and he now teaches at Trinity school of Arts.

During his lyrical hip hop performance Tejas Garbhe does a full split in the air

14

TGS LIFE SEPTEMBER 26, 2015 PUNE

A massive celebration Penthouze, Koregaon Park was celebrating turning three this month and the entire city was invited to their birthday bash

NightLife

By Manasi Shroff @ManasiShroff

I

t was a rocking Saturday night where youngsters from the city joined in the anniversary celebrations and hopped into Penthouze to let loose after their weekly routine. The bartenders were busy pouring drinks even as they couldn’t control shaking a leg on a few numbers. There was music, cocktails, laughter and a lot of dancing at this terrace lounge, which was almost the centre of attraction in Koregaon Park that evening.

While the celebratory mood took over, DJ Shane kept the crowd hooked on to the dance floor. Anahita, who works with a Germany-based MNC, accompanied her cousins and went on to have the time of her life, while Mitra found the change from her home, New York, pretty amazing.

Ajay and Addy couldn’t stop dancing while Tanya and Deep were on a party-hopping spree that night. In a fun interaction with these guys Anahita claimed that she loved to be a part of places where she can simply dance

her stress off and be refreshed to enjoy the weekend. On the other hand, Mitra thought that it was a whole lot of fun to be experiencing

an exciting side of the city and sipped her drink, even taking it to the dance floor while joining Anahita.

The energy level of the crowd kept rising with each track and soon those who stood in corners with their drinks were twisting

it out on the dance floor. Selfies took over the bar area and the DJ console as glasses clinked to raise a toast to the restaurant.

your weekly dose of events ‘Du and Me’

Vibhawari Deshpande and co-written by Lutz Huebner.

When: September 30 Where: Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Sanskrutik Bhavan, Ghole road

Kenneth Sebastian Live

On the occasion of International Translation Day on September 30, Pune based language solutions company BITS Private Limited has organised the staging of ‘Du and Me’, a play derived from the collaborative efforts of Grips Theatre Berlin and Maharashtra Culture Centre. The play is a story of a German boy- Boris Zeidler who visits India while on a student exchange program. He is staying with an Indian (Marathi) host family of a young girl Radha Deshpande who in turn is going to visit Germany on student exchange program. For Boris and Radha’s family, this cultural exchange has many surprises in store.

The two cultures collide. But slowly Boris and Radha break the barriers to become very close friends. The play is about relationships from the point of view of Global Youth that is progressive, firm and fearless. The play is written and directed by Shrirang Godbole and

The Indian Comedy Club brings to you a blend of eclectic mix of the best up and coming stand-up comics from all over India. Here’s your chance to watch the new comedians in town, live! Act after act, punchline after punchline, you’ll definitely LOL when you’re at the Indian Comedy Club. This time, they’ve got Kenneth Sebastian to get you rolling on the floor, and laughing your heart out.

Indian Comedy Club presents Kenneth Sebastian Live. It’s your weekly dose of fun and laughter. Get ready for an evening of insane humor. Watch Kenneth Sebastian as he narrate his funny tales and tickle your funny bones.

Live comedy and beers, it doesn’t get any better!

When: September 30 Where: Euriska, Koregaon Park

Where: Phoenix Market City, Viman Nagar

Abhijeet Bhattacharya Live

Art Inspiration

Alive India In Concert is an initiative to revive open-air live music concerts and to unite the nation on one platform - where age, creed, culture, religion doesn’t matter. What matters is to ‘Get Alive!!’

Due to the success of the previous 3 seasons, Alive India In Concert Season 4 comes with an all new electrifying setup to rock your life. It’s time to spread the message of love, peace, and unity through the most powerful medium music. Catch Abhijeet live in concert, singing his best-loved songs in Pune.

When: October 2

Art Inspiration is an exhibition of landscapes by two artists from Pune - Rahul Deshpande and Sachin Naik.

Both the artists work on landscapes on surrounding villages, Konkan lifestyle, and in the city too. Rahul specialises in oil, acrylic and colour pencils too. Sachin is a master in watercolour landscapes and paints on location. Art Inspiration is an exhibition of some unique landscapes on the above subjects in acrylic oil and watercolour.

When: Till October 10 Where: Bliss Art Gallery, Koregaon Park

‘Love your body, don’t imitate others’ @HeenaGM

R

ucha Mulay, 34, quit her high flying career as a hostess to become a pilate expert. It was during her pregnancy, eight years ago, that got Rucha seriously into fitness. She was introduced to pilate during her stay in the UK when she used to go for her pregnancy workout sessions and felt it was a great way to stay fit and healthy. After she delivered her son, Arjun, now seven years old, she strongly felt that she wanted to learn pilate professionally to be able to start training people back in Pune. Three years later, she quit her job and started pursuing a professional certificate course in Pilate. It’s been four months now that she has started her own fitness institute which, she says, is like watching her dream come true.

Morning • My mornings begin at 6am every day when I wake up my son to get ready for school. I make his tiffin and after he leaves, around 6.45am, I literally gobble up my breakfast that consists of two slices of toast, two eggs and a cup of tea as my first student comes sharp at 7.15am.

• From then on I have back-to-back pilate training sessions till 1.30pm. If I am lucky on and one of my student bunks the class, I take a 15 minute break and have another cup of tea with my parents. In between my sessions, I make sure to keep myself hydrated by drinking lemonade and snacking on fruits, a sandwich, a cube of cheese or nuts.

SEPTEMBER 26, 2015 PUNE

features

to learn something new. My coach also helps keep a tab on how I am progressing.

Aniruddha Rajandekar

By Heena Grover Menon

TGS LIFE

Night • At 8.30pm, we have our dinner which includes a one pot meal consisting of fish or chicken curry and rice or stir fried chicken. I avoid red meat.

• After having dinner, I put my son to bed and spend some time reading books. By 11pm, I hit the sack.

is usually a bowl of muesli with milk and fruits, and then I take my son out to the ground where he practices athletics till 6.30pm.

• From 7pm to 8pm, he learns skating and that’s the time I spend some me-time taking a stroll, which is a great way to relax and calm my mind. Two days a week, I go for my own workout session at a gym for an hour.

Even though I train people, I have my own personal coach so that I can depend on him

Rucha’s fitness wisdom • More than losing weight, one should focus on strengthening the body. I detest the idea of starving to lose those extra kilos and then feel miserable all the time. A number of my students ask me how they can become like me and I tell them, that everyone is blessed with a unique body and personality. While you must focus on achieving a great looking body, don’t ever try to imitate someone else.

Learn to love and appreciate yourself while working out to become what you desire, but never underestimate yourself. That’s the first step towards wellness and happiness.

• Lastly, keep a positive attitude and stay happy, don’t take too much stress.

Rucha Mulay Weight: 53kg Height: 5 feet, 4 inches

Expert speak Atul Kurpe, Director, Focus Five Fitness Club

Avoid bakery products like toasts and try to replace regular tea with green tea. You must have two small meals in between morning breakfast and lunch around 9.30am and 11.30am. Do resistance training at least thrice a week and take a small meal in between evening snack and dinner. Instead of curry and fried, include roasted or boiled chicken or fish.

Expert rating: 8/10

heena.grover@goldensparrow.com

Noon • At 1.30pm, I freshen up and wait for my son to come back from school, after which we eat our lunch at 2pm which consists of two chapattis or bhakris along with a bowl of vegetables, dal, salad and curd.

• After lunch, I take a power nap of 20 minutes and then sit with my son while he does his homework. He is a very naughty child, so I have my hands full all the time running around him, which is another reason I stay fit.

Evening • At 4.30pm, we have our evening snack which

Recycle your College Wardrobe into your Work Wardrobe

Vidhi Shah

F

orever tagged as ‘Confused Souls’, freshers struggle to find their way not only in their career, but also their fashion sense. Keep all that money for some other time, because we have your back. Vidhi Shah- member of Specs

Appeal community and a fashion enthusiast gives us some guidelines to help you build an office wear wardrobe– recycled from your college wear.

You could throw a scarf around your neck to add some colour. You could also add a dark coloured blazer on top to make it boardroom appropriate.

Jeans It is a well-known fact that college students practically live in their jeans. If you are not ready to break apart from your second skin, you can actually wear them to office. As long as you work it well, it can look crisp and clean, without looking sloppy.

Stylish Eyewear You might have quirky eyewear in college, but it is time for you to sport that professional look. But you don’t need to buy new eyewear, all you need to do is take off your spectacle lenses from an optician, spray paint your frames using a darker shade, and get your lenses fitted again! You can use your geeky glasses in office, makes you look more serious about what you do.

Comfy Footwear Girls in bellies and guys in loafers

Smart Tees Plain t-shirts and Polo-neck shirts were probably a part of every student’s wardrobe. Well, they do

fit into the office ‘dressing norms’ as well. All you need to do is iron them and you’re all set for office!

were the most common footwear spotted at colleges. You can use the same footwear at work and walk around comfortably without any shoe bites. Slippers are a big no. Pull out all those fancy shoes, which never got a chance to step out, they can be made of use at your workplace.

Accessorise Keep the style quotient high with good accessories, statement necklaces, chunky rings, bracelets with charms, all these add to the character of you and your outfit, always accessorize well. So rework on your current accessories with some DIY tricks and create some fun ones for work.

TGS LIFE SEPTEMBER 26, 2015 PUNE

BUZZ

Bhanot’s story will inspire women: Sonam

S

onam Kapoor will be seen in the biopic of Neerja Bhanot, a Pan Am cabin crew member who died saving passengers on a hijacked flight, and the actress says the flight attendant’s story will inspire young women of the country.

Bhanot, the senior most flight attendant on board a Pan Am Mumbai-New York flight, was shot dead by terrorists, who hijacked the flight at Karachi in 1986, in her courageous bid to save the lives of passengers.

She became the youngest recipient of India’s highest peacetime military award for bravery, the Ashok Chakra.

“I thought doing this film just reaffirms that it is about not bowing down. She (Neerja) had won the Arjuna Award for bravery and is the youngest and only female to win it. I think it’s commendable. It is an inspiring story for me to do.

I am blessed,” Sonam told PTI. The 30-year-old star chose to do the film because she felt young girls could imbibe the virtue of courage by watching the movie.

“The reason I chose to do this film is because I feel that girls need to have a lot of courage. I have lot of it when I speak about certain things and when I have to stand up for myself.

There were times when many people were advising me not to speak up for something that I believe was wrong,” she said.

The Khoobsurat actress said that shooting of the biopic has been completed but it is quite early to reveal much about it.

Directed by Ram Madhvani, the film also has veteran actress Shabana Azmi.

Important for heroines to do action: Amy Jackson

A

ctress Amy Jackson believes it is important for heroines to do action fi lms. Amy will be seen doing action stunts in her upcoming fi lm Singh Is Bliing and she is glad she got a chance to try the genre.

"In this fi lm, there is a lot of action which I have never

Alia Bhatt keen to learn from SRK

seen before in Bollywood. So, I would like to set a trend. I love doing action scenes and it's important in the fi lm," Amy told PTI. Actresss Kriti Sanon was the fi rst choice for the fi lm Singh Is Bliing but that did not bother Amy. "Kriti is a fantastic actor and it didn't happen for Kriti but thankfully it worked out for me. That's just part and parcel of fi lms," she said.

Amy couldn't believe she got to do a fi lm opposite Akshay Kumar. "I had to actually pinch myself when I got the call.

I couldn't believe it and even till the end, I was like... Am I actually working with Akshay Kumar?

"I have been a massive Akshay Kumar fan before and the fi rst fi lm that I ever watched was Namastey London. And I didn't think that I would get the chance to star alongside him, especially so early in my career," she said.

The 22-year-old model-turnedactress thinks Akshay is the best costar."You can't defi ne Akshay Kumar, he's the action king of Bollywood. I have learnt a lot from him. He is an inspiration," she said.

Singh Is Bliing, an upcoming action comedy fi lm, is directed by Prabhu Deva. The fi lm, featuring Akshay Kumar, Amy Jackson, Lara Dutta and Kay Kay Menon in lead roles, is scheduled to release on October 2.

B

ollywood actress Alia Bhatt, who would be seen alongside Shah Rukh Khan in Karan Johar’s upcoming film, says working with the superstar would be a great learning opportunity for her.

Johar has announced his next home production with Alia and SRK to be helmed by Gauri Shinde of English Vinglish fame.

It is not clear yet if SRK and Alia would be romantically paired opposite each other in the fi lm. The 22-year-old actress is very excited to share space with the Om Shanti Om star. “I am very excited to be working with him (Shah Rukh Khan). He is the biggest superstar.

It is a dream come true moment,” Alia told PTI. “He is one of the best and respectable actors in the industry. I would get so much to learn from him.

It is a great learning opportunity for me,” she said.

“The pressure comes with every film. As actors we need to do our best... impress the audience as they are the king. We need to justify their faith and give our best,” the Highway actress said.

Apparently the film narrates journey of a young girl played by Alia, who falls in love thrice and walking out of every relation with a new life lesson. “It is too early to talk about the concept of the film,” she added.

Reportedly, the Student of the Year actress has begun shooting for Gauri Khan’s film while Shah Rukh is busy with Dilwale.

On this Alia says, “The details would be given out soon.” Alia is also looking forward to the release of Shaandaar in which she is paired opposite Shahid Kapoor.

“I am excited as well as nervous for the film as after long time my film is coming up. It’s a fun, family film,” Alia said.