Love’s Call— Rise or Fall?

Yes, it had been the best phase of my life too. I was on the top of the world. Everything was exquisite, jovial and charismatic. I was happy, smiling, and stress free… Yes, I admit, I surrendered to my heart and yelled out, “I am in love…”

Her simple and gentle touch gave me goose-bumps; a single thought of her always left a smile on my face, closing eyelids dragged me towards a dreamland to see her— hand in hand walking together on the shores of the sea. Watching the sun disappearing in horizon to let the moon come out to enlighten the night with the brightness and tenderness of two hearts in love, to share a moment of togetherness in the moon-lit-night…

Moved with the effervescence of feelings I always used to land up at such a place where her voice would take me to paradise, her hug would make everything calm. The tranquil in her care and the warmth in her conversations, primed me sail to cloud nine and made me feel truly special. Her smile was the only thing I wanted to see when she was near. I had won the world and I was altogether contended within myself. I won’t feel ashamed to confess that I was mad and crazy for her!

Never able to wait for anything, I would anxiously wait for several hours for the phone to ring to hear her voice; would wait to read the replies after shooting a bunch of questions at her on the papers torn from the notebook and giving her stolen flowers that I used to pluck from peoples’ garden.

But someone has said it right ‘love is blind’! Yes, it is! In fact people have different connotations to describe this fact but I have my own to share. Mine was blind because I could never see anything apart her eyes. I could never hear anything else her voice. I could never trust anyone else her words, and I could never follow the path that didn’t led towards her; but she didn’t bother to any of them. We decided to walk together under all circumstances. We promised to stand besides each other in anomalous situations. But as luck would have it, the spring of my life became the autumn and all the dreams seen were shattered in a moment.

Walking together one pleasant day she took a step forward, but it wasn’t with me this time it was in the other direction. Slowly came close to me and said, “Baby, I think I won’t be able to continue our relationship. I am sorry but I think we need to separate.”

Speechless and surprised I was just looking in her eyes. Silently trying to understand what exactly ‘went wrong’? I was the sole mute witness of the dying relationship. No case was registered against the murderer, no arguments; no one was blamed and sentenced. All ended and I was left all alone just to curse myself for my own mistakes.

MADHUSHREE- Another Nightingale of the Tinsel Valley

Writer Munish Dhiman in special conversation with the singing star.

Born in the musical family where everyone is a worshiper of music; this Bengali girl has come a long way from Calcutta to South Africa to Holland and finally settled up in Mumbai. She got her first break in the industry with a song in the movie Moksha, but unfortunately couldn’t get appreciation. In fact it would be right to conclude that her career started just after the land mark song kabhi neem neem kabhi shehad shehad of Yuva that bagged her best female singer award for the song and since then there was no looking back.

Tell us about your foray in to music?

I am from a musical family. My father Late. Mr Amarendra Nath Bhattacharya was a singer. He started teaching music to me and my sisters since childhood. We have no brother, so we were aware since childhood that we have to do something. So I started learning singing to make a career in it.

Your father had been guru always?

No. After learning the tactics of singing from him I sidetracked myself from a singing towards Classical Music and started learning at the age of Nine from Dr. Amiyaranjan Banarjee. He taught me classical singing for a long time before I started singing professionally.

It means they are the people behind what you are today?

For this I would give the credit to every one I have come in contact with. Because you learn a lot form everyone. I learnt from them, I even learnt form the students I taught in South Africa and Holland and I am still learning. Because I believe learning is a process that never stops.

And what about the academic gyan in music?

Oh, you’re asking about the qualification. Let me put in the picture that I am a gold medalist in M.A music.

As you said that you’ve born in a musical family. Have you ever wanted to get in to some other line?

I was an athlete till college. But it was my father who told me that I should concentrate towards one thing only. And he clarified me that a dancer or a sportsperson has an age limit whereas a singer is forever. And it was only then that I gave up sports for singing.

Please put some light on your world tour?

World tour…? Smiles. Actually after completing my post graduation twelve years ago I left for South Africa after getting a job there. Stayed there for four years and worked as a singing teacher cum performer. Then I left for Holland and worked for a year there.

People go to foreign to settle there. How come your coming back to India materialized after staying there for quiet a long time?

It was when I was still in Holland. I had a trip to Calcutta and during the trip I met Kumar Sanu who told me that I have a beautiful voice apt for playback singing. And when I returned back I give it a thought and made up my to come back to India and start up a new career.

Was it easy to get a break in the industry?

It was actually not very easy. After struggling for some time I got my first break with the movie Moksha and my first song was mohabbat zindagi hai but I wasn’t able to get any appreciation for it. I sung a few more songs but I was unfortunate for the first few years.

Then…

It was in the year 2004 only when I got recognition and my name came to limelight with the movie Yuva and the song kabhi neem neem kabhi shehad shehad. It not only became a landmark in my career but also took me to a height to explore new horizons in my career. It even bagged me award for the best female singer. And after it things started changing and the journey has been really fruitful.

What changes actually happened, can you elaborate?

A lot of things changed, actually! A.R.Rahman who’s been singers’ delight; I sang songs for him. And singing songs for Saathiya, Rang De Basanti, Swadesh, Paheli, Kisna, Jodhaa Akhbar and Welcome to Sajjanpur all are actually some of my achievements. Even reality shows, Tour with A.R.Rahman and a lot of things came after Yuva only.

Reality show?

I did a reality show ‘Jhoom India’ on channel Sahara One and along with my partner Sachin Tyagi I came out as the winner of the show. And even I am judging in a show named ‘The Performer’ along with Ravinder Jain and Shravan (Nadeenm’s brother)

But what’s your take on reality shows as an individual?

I think a show is a show, it can never be real. But still it has something real in it. As a drama can not be 100 per cent drama in the same way a reality show can never be a 100 per sent real. I can say that in simple words a perfect blend of drama and reality can be called a reality show.

Who has been the greatest support throughout your career?

My father, my mother, my sisters almost everybody in my life had been supportive. And after I got married my husband has always stood by my side as a support.

Do you feel any competition in front of you?

Saying that there’s someone I am competing with would be wrong because actually there’s no competition for me. I believe there’s no singer who’s giving consecutive hits. It’s just that some of my songs get hit and some songs of some other singers are topping the charts. So there’s no competition as such.

Who’s your favorite singer?

I’ve been a great admirer of Lata Ji, Asha Ji, Rafi Ji,Kishore Ji…the list goes on.

Is there any song that you feel like humming all the time?

I like the compositions and the lyrics of almost all of the romantic songs from the 70s, 80s and 60s as well.

Can you choose your favorite song from your list and why?

I like the song Tu bin bataye from the movie ‘Rang De Basanti’. And it’s my favourite because though it is a young generation based song yet the soothing affect and the romantic flavour in it makes it my favourite.

The conversation with her felt more like attending a musical concert. I had to wrap up the chat early as she had to leave for the recording of her new song.

WADALI BROTHERS- Reincarnating the Mesmerizing and Intoxicating Sufi Singing

Music: Soothes when down, reforms mood, a way of expression and can even sometimes stop the world. Inspired from divine powers the ‘Sufiana Qlaam’ is one of the sweetest ways to get nearer to Almighty. There are mysterious powers behind music and it is such a flame that burns and soothes every heart. And Wadali brothers have kept this music flame ablaze.

Glimpse writer Munish Dhiman interacts with the Wadali Brothers who were recently in Chandigarh for the ‘Andaaz-E-Sufiana’ night held at Chandigarh Club and felt the difference between a song and a sufiana qlam… The function witnessed a huge crowd where the duo left the audience awestruck, revitalizing the souls with melodious Sur, taal and Alaaps. And after a quick warming session and ‘drinks’ that fused with the cold night, created a perfect blend to enjoy the maestros’ mysticism and the sufiana qulams.

Termed as one of the versatile singers they are unquestionably a name to reckon with in the Punjabi music industry. Serving the music industry for more than three generations they are raining the fourth generation heir, Lakhwinder Wadali, to take the family name to new heights.

As it’s the ‘Andaaz-E-Sufiana’ night, tell me what’s Sufi music for you?

Sufi means pure, untainted and virgin. Sufi music is soaring and curing. Sufi saints have sung assonances in the praise of God. It raises us to a different level and brings us closer to God.

Sufi is just like Ghee; absolutely pure. In the way as milk is turned into curd, curd into butter and butter milk. Then butter is further purified on fire to take out the purest form of milk which is Ghee. In such a manner Sufism makes a person absolutely pure.

Who do you think are the pillars of Sufi singing?

Baba Fareed, Bulleh Shah, Quaza Gulaam Fareed and Baba Shekh Fareed are just few names to declare as the pillars of sufism.

Singing runs in your genes, right?

Our grandfather Jhanda Ram started singing who was succeeded by our father Thakur Dass. Later I took over the reins and was later on joined by Pyarelal. Now we are training our fourth generation heir, Lakhwinder, to keep up the family name.

But when did you start singing?

I was interested in Pehalwani and did Akhara for many years as I was not at all keen to learn music but my father sahib forcefully using stick and everything that he could made me learn the tactics of music and it’s all just because of him that today I’ve earned this towering height in the world of music. Cheez taan aape sikh jaandi ae ya taan ohnu sikhan da shaunk howe ya darr howe.

And when did Pyarelal join you and what about your other brothers?

We were four brothers. But unfortunately we’re three now. He started singing 5-7 years after I did and the other is a Tabla player.

How has been the journey so far?

Even after a lot of ups and downs in life the journey has been really fruitful. Pyarelal added, “main taan bass aina jaandaan haan, k jab takk bika na tha koi poochhta na tha, toone mujhe khareed kar anmool kar dia.”

You’ve been a part of reality show on MH1 and recently your son had been a part of another. What’s your take o these reality shows?

I feel that reality shows provide a platform to the people who have talent and are ruining their talent just because of the lack of appropriate opportunities.

Pyarelal Wadali adds: I feel that reality shows are a nice concept to explore great talent but I think that the selection of judges is not done nicely people who have nothing to do with music and have no such background are made to sit to judge. This leads to nothing than just a wrong selection of a contestant.

How did you feel after being decorated with the Padamshree Award?

I had never thought that I would receive such a prestigious award. I was, like all, very happy and it had been an overwhelming response, indeed.

How many albums of yours are there in the market?

We’ve almost 10-12 albums in the market

After giving so many years to music why so less albums?

Initially, we didn’t want to ‘sell’ music as we never wanted to commercialise it. But when we received responses from our fans then we started working on our albums that happened just 8-10 years back.

Whom do you think responsible for the increasing vulgarity in the Punjabi music industry?

I would give the blame solely to the viewers/listeners. Nowadays people have started showing predilection towards Akhras (that attracts eyes) than Kannras (that attracts ears). Which in other words mean that people enjoy watching music rather than listening to it.

Sprouting of singers like wild mushrooms is not new-fangled. Do you think it will affect music?

Absolutely. People who have money just plunge into the music industry without knowing anything about music. It sometimes leaves me speechless that how far the taste of music has has gone. And here too I would like to mention the same differentiation the Akhras and Kannras.

And is there any singer from the new singers whom you consider as Sufi singer?

No, there’s no such singer.

How would you describe Lakhwinder Wadali as a singer?

Lakhwinder has a bright future ahead. He has moulded himself well as per the preferences and requirements of today’s audience. He can sing pop well and he can sing sufi music as well.

Do you think he’ll be able to preserve the age old family tradition of the Sufi singers?

Absolutely, he will.

The night was sedating and the verses alleviating. And the tête-à-tête with the duo was without a doubt such an unforgettable experience that left imprints in my memory forever.

MEGHNA NAIDU - Setting Stage Aflame

She’s hot ‘n’ happening. She’s the eye-catcher and the head-turner. She’s the sex-siren and boasts of the tag ‘bold & sexy’. Yes, she’s Meghna Naidu. This hottie was recently in Chandigarh to attend Holi celebrations at Funcity in Panchkula where glimpse writer Munish Dhiman interacts with her.

Born at Vijaywada in Andhra Pradesh and brought up in Mumbai, Meghna neither got fascinated by the glitterati of the tinsel valley nor did she want to pursue a career in acting. Daughter of a tennis coach and a teacher, she was never pressurized by her parents to follow their footsteps and walk the same itinerary. Her interest persuaded her to play lawn tennis and later give coaching to U-12 team in US. Not very studious Meghna gets candid, “It was just for the sake of a tag ‘Graduate’ that I cleared B’Com. My parents never forced me into something. On the contrary, they always supported me in whatever I did. They, like me, believed in the fact that forcing someone always back-fires and that’s why they supported my decisions and were always by my side to push me in fulfilling my wishes.”

Never really interested in pursuing a career in Films, we wonder how she ventured in Bollywood? “I believe it’s just because I was at the right place at the right time. I was accompanying one of my friends to an audition just for giving her company. But as luck would have it, she couldn’t get through and the director Radhika Rao selected me. I was not at all keen for this career option but that’s how Kaliyon ka chaman happened.” With such a smashing hit and the video topping the charts, life for Meghna changed drastically and she got recognition as a hot dancing sensation. She quips, “I was shocked with the response. People called me up to congratulate me and the best part was that my friends whom I had lost contact with called me for the same. I was surprised when one of my friends who had gone on his honeymoon, called me and said that he liked my video.”

Overnight fame brought her to the limelight. Life certainly took a quantum leap forward for her. And for Meghna, it was the turning point of her life. What she never wanted to become, was what she had just entered into. She became a star and centre of the attraction. Wherever she went fans followed. “Everyone loves fan-following; I too enjoy it, really! After all we exist because of them. It is only the audience who decides the future of a star apart from the hard work they put into whatever they do,” rejoices Meghna.

She never went to an acting school but is passionate to join one. With no idol in the film industry, Meghna is quiet impressed by the personas of Amitabh Bachchan and Mithun Chakorborty. She announces, “I am profoundly influenced by their struggle and the way they have attained a place so high in this industry.” Bollywood— where having a godfather means an easy entry into the Industry and where struggle is mandatory and sustaining becomes even tough for those who have no family heirs to pass on the crown, Meghna has proved her potential in such a short span of time. “It’s true that a star’s son will always be treated as a star’s son. But a person with capability, determination and eminence can only stay in this world of drama,” she adds.

With many offers on the cards and new offers knocking every second day, she is very choosy about doing roles in the movies. “I don’t want to do all the movies that are offered to me. I do a movie only when I get convinced by the character. I am pretty choosy in that matter otherwise till date I would have done more than 50 movies till date. Take ‘Hawas’ as an example. I didn’t do it because it was my first movie and I didn’t want to lose the chance. I read the script and mentally prepared myself for the role. Hats off to Karan Razdaan, the director of the film, because I made him wait for almost a year before signing the script,” she laughs.

And about staying in the industry and would she do old granny’s role later she quips, “It all depends on my fate. If my fate is to stay in the industry I would definitely stay. And I wouldn’t mind at all people calling me ‘sexy Meghna aunty’. And even if I leave I would love to be remembered as a nice human being.”

PREITY ZINTA- Dazzling Dimpled Damsel

She's bubbly and effervescent and just a little mordant. An Indian actor who lights up the screen with her 1000 watt, energy and irresistible charm. Shot to fame as the refreshing, cool, wet model in Liril ad and the perk ad along with her dimpled smile which won the hearts of millions. Movies like 'Kya Kehna', 'Dil Se' and 'Soldier' won Preity much accolades and the box-office hits confirmed that she's here to stay. For the moment, though, she takes a break and speaks to Glimpse writer Munish Dhiman about her life and career with much ado.

How did modeling happen?

Well, modeling… umm, it all happened by chance. My friends used to persuade me to try my luck in modeling. Got offers easily and got featured in the 'Liril' and the 'Perk' ad.

Was there an actress in you since childhood?

No, never. In fact I was pursuing criminal psychology after completing graduation with English honours. It was luck only that drove me towards acting and I am here today. I went to pick up a friend's friend who had gone for some audition. It was all the destiny or luck that he couldn't make it through and I was selected for the same. And that's how I eventually made way to Bollywood.

So, where did you hone your acting skills from?

No where. I never went to any acting schools.

Great. Then there might be great influence of your idols upon you.

I am a big fan of Amitabh Bachchan, Dharam ji, Shri Devi and Madhuri Dixit.

Wasn't it difficult to make a place in the industry as a 'Newcomer'?

It was, particularly in the light of the forthright character.

Then…

Somehow I got a role in Mani Ratnam's 'Dil Se'. Later on 'Soldier' with Bobby Deol. That was a commercial movie and that worked too. I got role in 'Sangharsh' which was different. Then came 'Dil Chahta Hai', 'Kal Ho Na Ho', 'Salaam Namaste', 'Jan-E-Mann', Veer Zaara and Salaam Namaste.

Which role of yours do you like the most?

I liked playing the role in Veer-Zaara. Before I got into movies I had heard about Yash Chopra. It was wonderful working with him. He is a great director and indeed a lovely human being.

Who are the actors you feel most comfortable working with?

Actually that's pretty tough to answer. I feel lucky that I have got all the comfort and support with everyone I have worked with. I am an easy person and get along with everyone unless there's something very wrong with somebody.

Do you have some notions about the tinsel town that broke when you entered Bollywood?

I actually realized the difference between real and reel. Smiles.

Now when you're in the profession what's acting to you and is there any role that you want to do?

I think acting is all about being insightful, picking from real life and putting into your character. It's not about the role! Nowadays it's about character. Hthat uis what makes you choose between roles in the movie. I believe it's important that you are convinced about your character. And regarding role, I have seen very less movies but after doing so many of them, I am looking for a chance to work in an action movie with a strong character, of course.

How do you spend you leisure time?

I like to spend my time for myself and don't like fans following me wherever I go. I love to party and do so all the time. Being an extrovert whenever I am free, I switch off my phone and hang out with my friends. Stardom is ok, but I am a very private person and I love my privacy.

What gives you goose-bumps?

I get goose-bumps whenever I see cricket and the ball goes up in the air thinking whether it'll be a six or catch.

Is there any problem that female actors face?

Yea! I think it's very competitive, I mean as a woman if you have to work for 24 hours a day you need to look as fresh as a flower in the morning. And guys can look all scruffy, and they are still macho and cool.

With so many people idolizing you how have you managed to stay so grounded?

Well, I just believe it's a job in the end of the day. I don't want to be an ex-film star who lives in the past, and I've seen a lot of that around. So it's very important you take it as a job, do it as a job and leave it as a job. Smiles.

So do you foresee yourself doing this for a long time?

I don't want to be acting until I have gray hair and I am colouring them and holding my wrinkles. And grandma for me, no never!

Has recession affected you anyhow?

Yes, it has. Not just me but everybody.

Is there something that came as a surprise?

Yea, 'Solider' turned out to be a blockbuster and I got an award for the role.

Are there any plans of diversion from acting to production or direction?

I have already diverted. I am producing 'Cricket'

So, venturing to Cricket was just because of the production only or you had some special interest in the game?

Frankly speaking I never saw Cricket, but I was always interested in sports. I loved to play a lot of sports and today I am happy and proud to be associated with Cricket.

What's the driving force behind you?

Hmmm… I think the will to excel and will to never say die spirit is the only driving force behind me.

And who's been most supportive in the family?

I lost my dad at a very early age. So my brothers and my mother took care of me. All of them have been really supportive in all of my decisions and

Your comments on the recent terror attacks on Mumbai?

The Mumbai terror attacks were the darkest 60 hours in the history of India. But Mumbai, known as the city that never sleeps, boasts of people who know how to fight back. People here are really amazing. Hats off to the courage, will and patience of the people who were trapped but still came out victorious. And I feel deeply helpless when I think about all those who died in the same. But we proved despite all the hardships that ‘We stand United- today, tomorrow, forever’.

With a curved smile that set things straight for her, we bid adieu to the charming lady wishing her success in the forthcoming ventures.

An encounter with a 'Gay'

My working hours, 10-6, generally gets transformed to a double shift (without over-time) when the ‘lock-up’ starts. So, as the lock-up period had started I stayed in office late hours, that day, almost six and a half hours more than regular shift timings. The clock which had already struck past twelve appeared dizzier than us; after all we all had been working since morning. My Executive Editor, me and our Designer locked our workplace and moved towards our homes. The designer stayed nearby, wished us good night and moved out in the dimness on his conveyance but my Executive Editor, resident of Ambala, had to catch a bus to his place. My boss, still, graciously he asked if I could drop him at the bus stand (sector-17), so that he could get a bus without complexity. I felt delighted that he ‘enquired’ me to drop rather than giving an ‘order’ to do so.

I dropped and wished him safe journey and left because I was getting tardy every second, every minute; literally! While passing Aroma I strived to persuade myself, but the animal inside me provoked me to halt. I parked the bike, went inside, had an ice-cream, gazed at few hot chicks and came outside. Started my machine, and after smoldering few milliliters of petrol in performing three-four geris at last made up mind to move towards home.

It’s somewhat unfeasible for me to halt myself giving a lift to anyone who waves his hand for the same. The same happened at the Aroma light point. I had just crossed the lights where a man wearing cream kurta-pajama waved his hand for a lift. I stopped, he came few meters running and asked, “kahan tak jaaoge jnaab (Sir, where are you going)?” I, without sensing his secret intentions (as I this was my first encounter with such a ‘man’) replied, “yaar main to 29 sector ja raha hoon. (I am going to sector 29)?” Very courteously he said,“ Mujhe 32 jana hai par agar aap 29 tak hi lift de dein to aap ka shukriya, wahan se main paidal chala jaunga” ( I have to reach 32 but it’ll be grateful if you grant me lift and drop me at 29 I’ll walk off to 32 from there ).

Our ‘last ride together’ started. I, as usual, was enjoying the drive at night driving at a speed probably not more then 20. As I had drove few meters I started sensing some heaviness on my left thigh, but who gives a damn, I thought he had kept his hand for some support. Suddenly, I apprehended that I was in an intricacy when his hands slowly started moving on my thigh. I considered he’s trying to tell me something. I interrupted and asked, “Kya hua?” (what happened?) and he shrewdly replied, “Stuff achha hai apki jeans ka, kaunsi hai?” (The stuff of your jeans is nice, which brand is it)? I realized later how stupid I was to reply him “Levi’s ki hai” (It’s Levi’s). After asking this he moved his face ahead and asked, “khushbu achhi hai kaunsa perfume lagaya hai?,” (Nice fragrance which perfume are you wearing?). Observe my stupidity, again, I replied, “maine Brut lagayaa hua hai” (I am wearing Brut).

He thought I’ve befall friendly and he actually started performing his ‘work’. Now his hand initiated crawling from my thighs towards my lower abdomen and within no time it reached its desired destination. It was the biggest shock as I could never believe that I had given lift to a gay. A gay, oh my Lord! Now, I was in a dilemma what to do and what to not? Before I could think what option to go for, he had grabbed my d$8k. I was so scared, on the hushed roads in the dark; I was alone with a professional, he was looking for a prey and I was looking for someone to come for my rescue. A lot of strategies, ideas, thoughts were striking my brain but all were getting overpowered by his presence. I even thought to drop him in somewhere but I was looking for a place where I could find someone to help me.

Thank God, eventually I reached sector 29 and saw few people moving on the road because of some Jagrata in the temple. I congregated my strength, stopped my bike, stood on the road and gave the bastard two tight slaps packed with vehemence and a bunch of heavy abuses loaded with anger. People gathered to know what happened but I had no words to say. I said “Kuch nai saala marne aa gya meri bike ke aage” (Nothing this bastard came in front of my bike to die). They dispersed and I got back on the bike, was just to start (I don’t know what he expected from me now) when the a$$ h@*$, son of a bitch with greed and lust in his eyes asked, “ab pahuncha denge 32 tak?” (Can you drop me at 32 now)? Now can you beat that!

Though my destination was not too far from where I met this man but for me it was a ride that I’ll never forget and every waving hand seeking a lift will make it new every time.

Jeev Milkha Singh

JEEV MILKHA SINGH

The Right Swing

He won four Asian titles between 1996 and 1999 and became the first Indian to qualify for the European tour and as India's best golfer he is moving from strength to strength. The highest ranked Indian golfer, Jeev who broke into top 100 in the year 2006, has moved from a European ranking of 104 to 36— the first Indian ever to do so in a very short span of time.

For icon sons it's often been a Hobson's choice. A one-way road to whatever they want to be. Just single pair of shoes at the start of the road for them to slip into, usually belonging to their fathers. Many accept this as predestined and pick up their father's tracks.

Others like Jeev Milkha Singh carve a niche to their own way and try to match up to the caliber of their fathers. But here, Jeev has had two people to match up to — his father, the great Milkha Singh known as 'the flying sikh' and his mother, Nirmal Kaur who too was the former captain of the Indian volleyball team.

Glimpse writer Munish Dhiman meets Jeev Milkha Singh, the Indian who represents India in golf, while his quick halt at Chandigarh before moving to Thailand for another tour. After achieving great heights, success and even after becoming an idol of many at the age of 34, this sikh is really down to earth. He entered the Golf range like any other ordinary man —very calm; just like the guy next door and said, "Please help yourself and have something to eat first. We'll have the conversation in a while let me free the photographer first."

When did the golf bug bite you?

I don't precisely remember! It must have been when I was around nine or ten. My father used to take me to the golf courses and I would pull his trolley and play few shots. It was then only when I seriously got attracted to the game. I feel fortunate to be born in a city like Chandigarh. And probably that's one of the reasons why I am into golf now.

Who do you attribute part of your success in golf to? Your father or your mother!

To both of them, of course! It has been a big advantage being their son. Everyone knows my father, the 'Flying Sikh' of the sixties. But there may be many who would not know that my mother Nirmal Kaur too is the former captain of the Indian volleyball team. Thus a sporting career came unsurprisingly to me. I could say that I was born in a family, which respired and dreamt only of sports.

How come you never opted for any other game?

I wanted to play a game that I could keep playing till the age of 60 or 70. No other sport except golf allows you such luxury. An athlete's career is usually over before he is 30 or 35. So, from the very beginning I had decided that golf was going to be the right game for me.

You didn’t follow your father’s footsteps; wasn’t he disappointed?

No, on the contrary he was elated when he heard I wanted to play golf. In fact he was so supportive of my decision that he would take me daily to the practice sessions which gradually started extending for hours but he always stood by me like a rock an appreciated my every stroke.

Did he give you any advice before you ventured into Golf?

Yes, only one. He said, "I am happy with your decision as long as you aspire to excel in the game." I can never forget his words... "Let not people say you are Milkha's son. Let them say I am Jeev's father." Can anyone aspire for more in terms of motivation?

Who's been the biggest support in your life?

My dad has been my biggest support. He always stood by my side what come may. Apart from him, my mother, my sister, my friends and my fans and after my marriage my wife too provided a lot of support to me. My entire family had been supportive ever since I started playing.

You were named Indian Sportsman of the year 2006. What did you undergo?

I was shocked rather being surprised! That prize almost every time goes to some cricketer or hockey player. And for me, winning it as a golfer was implausible.

You have also been awarded with the ‘Padma Shri’ in 2007. How do you feel about it?

It was like another shock for me. I had never dreamt of getting the prestigious award but I really feel privileged that I was decorated with this award which is equivalent of the knighthood in Britain.

You made the statement 'Winning doesn't come cheaply ... you have to pay a big price', can you put some light on it?

Life's just like one of a suitcase. Each week there's a different control; win never come easily. There are more no's than yes. You stay away from your family in far off places and sometimes you need them and you feel helpless. That's the price you pay.

What do you feel about the future of golf in India?

I feel it is the fastest growing sport in India. Golf is becoming very popular in Asia. A few years back there was no organised tour in Asia. But now with the Asian PGA tour we are all on a surer footing. Playing conditions too have improved considerably and thanks to television, the exposure is widespread. The future of golf in India is indeed great.

India is a country where cricket is worshipped; do you see golf achieving any level of popularity?

Yes, it's getting better. And I feel in the next decade golf will become as popular as cricket is. A lot of young people who watch the game on TV have been decoyed to it. There is also good money in it and young people have started realising that it can be a profession in itself and one can make his two ends meet out of it. I do feel that cricketers still rule the world of advertisement but I am sure the scenario will change soon.

How much money do you earn in a season?

It varies from season to season. Usually it is over $400,000.

Have you played with Tiger Woods? How was your experience?

Yes, I played with him in the first two rounds in Shanghai in October. He is as good a man as a golfer. It's been nice sharing some strokes with such a man who's an inspiration to us all.

What needs to be done to popularise golf in India?

Academies, colleges etc. should be set up to tap golfing talent. That can be a way to gain mass popularity. But most importantly golf courses have to be made easily access able to people. That is one sure way of popularising the game.

Which has been your most memorable tournament in your life?

Volvo Masters and very close to it would be Singapore Open.

Who is your idol?

Fred Couples.

How do you relieve yourself from pressures of the game?

Yoga is the way that relieves me of disappointments and pressures. It increases my concentration on the golf course.

In the last few years what has changed in you?

I feel I as a person have not changed at all but as far as my game is concerned I have become more confident, my timing is flawless, there’s more twist in the shot and I am relaxed even under pressure. As my age is increasing so my shaft has changed it has become bit lighter now.

Today you are ranked No.36 in the European circuit. What dreams are left to accomplish?

Hmmm… There're lots of. But my immediate dream or aim that I've to accomplish is to break into top-20 international ranking in the early 2009 and to have a major title under my belt before saying final good bye to the game, for which I am still longing.

Now who says that money and fame changes a person? Even if does I am sure that nothing has changed him as a person, as a human being! The conversation ended but it never felt for a single moment that I was interviewing a Personality though I was. May he finds his way not just to the top 20 positions but to the top positions before singing the last farewell song for his game…

It appeared in the January issue of the Glimpse magazine (2009).

Ranjit Bajaj

Is the 'Brat' bad? Let's find out...

Glimpse writer Munish Dhiman scrutinises and explores the authentic ups and downs Ranjit Bajaj has undergone in his life.

I am not usually apprehensive about interviewing people, but I was indeed anxious about my rendezvous with Ranjit. The curiosity had been throbbing ever since I had heard about him. I had preconceived a reflection of his which was al-together poles apart from what I actually experienced on meeting him. Son of B.R.Bajaj and Rupan Deol Bajaj, the high-profile Punjab cadre bureaucrats, Ranjit bared deep secrets of his beleaguered heart and I couldn’t believe that he was the same person I had heard of…?

Coming from one of influential families of IAS officers, Ranjit, a big stick himself, hardly needs a foreword. Embroiled in many a controversy, and hogging headlines day in and day out, pangs of privations have not spared him also. He cries out “life of an IAS officer’s kid is not that easy, my friend! It’s indeed a curse ...!”

Rocking Childhood

I vividly recall my childhood days of yore when I used to play in the lush green lawns of my house with my pals. I had treasured every single precious moment of my childhood, as I was not really scared of the prying eyes around me. I always go nostalgic about my endearing school days I ever cherish relive. I studied in one of the reputed convent schools. Theatre had been a raging passion with me till the age of 12 during which I performed in Germany, Turkey and Finland. But, times have now changed for the worst. Now, whatever I do today make ‘catchy’ headlines for various newspapers, the following day.

First Encounter with Law

It always gives me goose bumps whenever I am reminded of the first encounter with the law. The case, which was never registered against me, dates back to 1996. The alleged case slapped against me was on the alleged charge of beating three commandos, in the presence of a sub inspector. I was 15 and a half years of age then. It is not yet decided by the law of the land whether a juvenile case be registered against the teenager or the personnel on duty, allegedly thrashed by the youth should be suspended? What a mockery of the law, this!

Open eye nightmare.

Even in my wildest dreams I had never imagined that something like that recurs in my life. Man proposes and God disposes, they say. Way back in 2000, I was brutally stabbed by a group of miscreants without a slightest provocation on my part. Miraculously, I escaped the murderous bid in which I left with 184 bleeding stitches. So, I am hard of conviction that that god saves, are free from all material pangs.

How the destitution forayed in my life.

It was a strange cataclysm that changed my life forever. Even being IAS officers’ kid didn’t prove much of a help to me. Police failed to trace a single culprit in three long months. Just because of it I was forced to intervene in the matter and I searched around for them personally. It was all my effort that helped put them behind the bars. During the period of four months several cases were registered against me. But all these purported cases were resolved and I was acquitted in nearly all.

Beliefs…

Dude, I just believe in facts. Neither I believe in God nor in ghosts. I’ve never experienced any thing that could make me believe in it. I do believe that there is a universal power up above that is making things happen, but till I don’t see, I won’t believe.

The Virtue

I was acquitted in all the cases I was convicted in. Can anyone one who put a finger on me answer me, how the clean chits were given to me, a perpetrator never gets it. Even many of the cases were dismissed by court. There’s a single case pending whose result will be declared after a few hearings. I’ve faith that in that to I’ll get justice. And if, I am found guilty the law should be made obligatory and I should be treated like all offenders.

My Strengths

My friends and family are my biggest strengths. I believe in them and they trust me. My mom and dad have always supported me and were always by my side. At no point of time they left me alone.

Turning Dream into Reality

Starting the venture, ‘Score’ was my dream. I had nurtured the design, architecture, hiring of bouncers, security system, the décor, autographs on the walls for the ambience of a happening club, and the powerful music system. From the idea till the grand opening of the club everything was projected and executed by me. The restraint, the V.I.P lounge, the bar, the dance floor every single idea is a collective result of just my creativity.

I personally trained the bouncers to work in a professional way. They lacked ‘emotions’, concentrated towards their work, and were well trained to cope up with disasters like earthquake, fire, brawls and others.”

Attainment

The first two months that I spent in Score was my biggest achievement. Just because of the quality control there were no brawls, no problems at all. It became a happening place and jus in two months a nightmare for all existing places. Score made huge scores financially. The success story of the place was outcome of my wits only. Leaving it wasn’t nice but I couldn’t work there just because what I wanted to do, the way I wanted to do I was barred for all.

I’ll be back with a bang/ So what’s he doing these days?

I am working very hard on my new project. After creating ‘Score’ it would preferably not be another Score. But I would bounce back giving a happening night life to chandigharians who want to enjoy life to the fullest. Then, not only on Saturdays but they’ll rock throughout the week. Chandigarh has the potential for meeting the night life as of metros, but the only lacking factor is a happening place, and I’ll provide them with one such place to groove out everyday. I’ll give Chandigarh the biggest night club with international night club quality and the safest place for people to party.

What’s my gaffe…?

I had always been portrayed as the spoiled brat. Is it my fault that whatever I do make way to the headlines? “Manish see… I applied for a passport and can you imagine it was published on the front page and a triple murder case story was published on the third page of the same newspaper. Now tell me who is wrong? My applying for a passport is a bigger crime than a triple murder case.”

Wheels for me.

I have no fantasies about any car as I had always loved whatever car I had possessed. Right now, I drive a civic and I keep it as my baby. I had modified her myself. There are no plans yet to change it but in future I would love to drive Lamborghini or a Gallardo.

Roadie is Really Roaring.

MTV roadie has been the best experience ever in my life. It was the first and now the longest running reality show ever made in the history of Indian television. I feel honoured that I was a part of it and was first from Chandigarh. I, Ranvijay and Tony were the only contestants to reach the finals making it from Chennai to Chail, covering a distance of 4800kms in 40 days. I was the first roadie to have met with an accident. That too happened because I had never driven a two wheeler before.

Multi Sports star.

Sports are my life and cricket is my passion. Apart from what I have achieved in cricket I’ve played a number of games and gave the best shot in each of them. Professionally, now I play cricket only but I have loads of accolades in other games under my belt. I was captain of my school and college football team, and even lead the game in two international matches. After being selected for India under 19 football team represented India in Asian schools Football Tournament at Malaysia. Three times runner up in Chandigarh Open tennis, represented school in inter school swimming meets. That’s not all I am national silver medal winner in taekwondo.

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Punjabi’s Rock…

There’s nothing like Punjabis in the whole world. Happy go lucky type of people born with the biggest balls… I personally don’t believe in caste, religion or anything like such but Punjabiyat runs in my genes. My mom’s from a Jatt Sikh family and I had cherished to be baptized as a Punjabi. If given choice between any other place, probably, I would never leave the rich soil of Punjab.

Why not Civil Services?

Lots of people ask me the same question but I don’t mind at al saying that I don’t want to. Corruption has rooted deep as termites and has left no one in government sector. I’ve seen my parents doing justice to their post. But does it matter? No, the work never stops. Wo nahi karenge to koi aur karega lekin kaam to chalta hi rahega. And that’s why I don’t want to plunge into it.

The article appeared in the June Edition of the Glimpse magazine.

Prabhjot Virk (Roadie)

Roadie on hot wheels Prabhjot Virk

MTV Roadies is not everyone’s cup of tea! An age old proverb “When the going gets tough the toughs get going” doesn’t stand here at all. Here, it’s not a game just for the tough but it’s for the smarter toughs. This longest running reality show has more TRP than regular saas-bahu soaps. A roadie is not one in the crowd but is the one who stands diverse from the crowd and could make his presence felt. May be that’s why Raghu (Producer Hero Honda Roadies) and Nikhil Chinappa, in almost each audition, screech out to numerous subjects, “Just Fuck Off, because you lack the roadie attitude.” Bearing pains; coping with brawls, situations and surviving on the show need real efforts. Betrayls, offstage ploys, vote-outs, money tasks, keep viewers busy in guessing whose next? And the obscenity, verbal fights stretching the limits of abuses (censored) makes it a big hit. As the roadies’ say, “on the show just trust yourself because everyone wants to save his own Ass, and for saving it they won’t mind fucking yours.

Prabhjot Virk, Chandigarh’s tough lass, needs no introduction. She was among the top five roadies who survived out of the 13 to reach Malaysia. For her, being tough is in the Punjabi Blood. Though she couldn’t hit the bull’s eye on the Roadie 5.0, the show had undeniably made her an icon. Glimpse writer Munish Dhiman gets involved in a tête-à-tête with the untamed Punjabi tigress and shares some thoughts and experiences of her expedition of the jungle called Roadies.

So how was your experience in Roadies 5.0?

Ah, so cliché. But this show actually changed my life. A girl next door suddenly became an idol, different from the crowd. It’s such an experience that I would share with my kids, theirs and even theirs…

What’s up these days?

Life’s a chaos these days! College has just started, and then MBA classes, I get really tired at the end of the day…

When and why did the idea of becoming a Roadie hit your mind?

Actually, People of my age, think that people who have dumm can make it to roadies. But in my case it was a kind of, lets give it a shot. So, we seven eight friends went together out of which only four could make it to auditions and only I, to the show.

Is there any Roadie idol for you?

Naaah… if there would have been any, I would have tried to follow his\her footsteps. I was what I am and that’s why I am now idol of thousands.

Is roadie in real means a reality show?

Ya, absolutely! Everything in the show is real, nothing is scripted. Though the cameras were not hidden but nobody was there to guide us what to do. Emotions, love stories, fights everything was unscripted and real.

Is there anything about the show that you regret now?

Naaaah…! Why would I? Next question please.

Where did all that maa-bhein stuff materialized from, any training before going to the show?

I have learnt it from my school and college. You tell me, did you take any classes and please don’t tell me tat you don’t know all that stuff!? It all gets aired with a censored beep; you’ll be able to read the lips only when you yourself are aware of the stuff. Though I don’t use it normally, but I don’t mind using it when required.

Were you aware that though censored, all your conversations will be telecasted? Didn’t you bother about reactions of your friends and family on gaali-gloch?

Ya, I knew that. But I convinced them that now every one knows this you can’t shut your ear when someone else uses it. But I told them that they should be proud that I never used it ever in front of them. I even apologized to my family on the sets only when I had to do a task in Bangkok.

What was the craziest thing that you did on roadies?

Eating bugs, snakes, frogs, worms and locust during the show was really crazy.

Tel us something that gives you goose bumps?

I’ve a fear of height, though it never came as a hindrance as I overcame my fears but still height gives me goose bumps. And escalators… I prefer stairs.

Among all the participants who was the closest challenger or competitor?

There was no closest challenger or competitor as such because at different times I came to know about different challengers physically and mentally. The competition kept changing my views.

Betrayal is the soul of roadies but whom did you trust on the show?

Sonel, though lot changed by the end of the show but till that we shared great chemistry.

And adversary…

Nihal, he was the one bastard I would never want to come across. I really hated him a lot.

So what does friendship mean to you?

No back stepping and being there no matter how many misunderstandings there have been. Sticking together till the end of your life is true friendship

What was the biggest strength of yours on the show?

Your attitude can make or break you. Not just on the show but anywhere. Losing your attitude would be like losing everything. So my attitude was my biggest strength

How would you define a Roadie?

As courage is not dearth of fear but it is the power to trounce it. Roadie is not who does not panic from anything but he is the one who overcomes all of them. He should be a go getter.

Whom do you miss among all the Roadies?

I miss roadies as a whole, the people, ride, tasks, everything.

What was your first reaction when you were called back for a one-on-one to get a place back in the show?

I just thought that this is my chance where I can prove myself and wanted to show Anmol the place she deserved.

What was more important, competition or going international?

I wanted to reach the final destination, Malaysia. And to reach there I had to win all the tasks. I gave my best shot everytime to reach that point.

Is their any such moment of the show that would stay embedded to your heart for years?

Ya, I came across two such moments that would stay embedded to my heart. First, when I my second chance n the show. And the second is, when I got voted out just because of Ankita’s stupidity.

Any crush on the sets?

On roadies! What are you asking?

And in real…

I don’t have crush on people, it’s the other way round.

How do you feel being a Punjabi?

I feel great. I am proud of being a Punjabi. They are absolutely apart from the crowd. There’s something different that runs in their blood.

Do you think the Punjabi blood in your veins helped you?

Absolutely, actually they don’t give up easily. They just believe in- Just do it, whatever it is. They are not quitters or losers.

Is Prabhjot - the tough Roadie, really Tough?

She’s doubtlessly tough and she doesn’t need to prove it, she has already proven it. But she won’t mind saying that she’s emotional.

What next, future projects?

None as if now, I am completely concentrating on my studies. I believe studies are the most important part of one’s life. Fame like roadies, serials is short lived.

What changes do you feel after Roadies happened to you?

I got recognition in the crowd. People mail me saying, ‘you’re my role model’, and it feels nice. I feel proud that I’ve become an idol for thousands at the age of 20.

The best compliment you’ve ever received?

Before roadies happened I used to get a lot of compliments on my eyes but afterwards the compliment ‘jatti ne sadda naa roshan karta’ become the best so far.

How do you feel signing an autograph or fan following for a photograph?

I feel just like on the top of the world. People take autographs, pictures anyone would feel great about it!

What do you feel about Punjab and its people?

It’s really a beautiful place. Whenever I go to our ancestral home in Punjab, I get mesmerized by the serene farms. Though I try to control my tongue and craving but the mouth watering delicacies leave all in vain.

Define yourself in not more than five words.

Optimistic, Adventurous, Strong headed, Calm, Sweet.

Please guide the wannabe roadies?

Don’t be wannabe’s, be yourself.

You got to tell us about Raghu and Ranvijay?

Raghu is a very nice as a person. He can look through a person. He was the one who always motivated me on the show. And who had faith in me from the first day till my elimination. He was one reason of my being on the show. And Ranvijay, he’s just like a regular guy next door kind. Not high headed for his fame. He’s adventures, down to earth and friendly.

If you had a power to change what had you changed in the show?

I didn’t any other powers but if I had the power that Ankita’s got it would definitely have changed the game.

What at the professional front?

I am pursuing B.C.A. final year, preparing to bell the C.A.T. and then M.B.A.

Any proposal from Mtv as in, something like splits villa, youngistan or from any media house?

Conversations were on for splits villa, but nothing ‘Big’ like Ekta banner or a movie has been offered so far.

RAPID FIRE:

Car: Nah I like big mean machines

Perfume: Clinique, Elizabeth Arden

Passion: Travelling

Strength: My attitude towards life

Weakness: Not discovered… but if I do will over come it!

Dream destination: Wherever road can take me to because every place has something different to offer

Love marriage or arrange: Love

Bikes or Activa\Kinetic: Bikes any day

Afraid of:I try to overcome my fears so not afraid of anything

Love: Is in all forms

Hate: Liars

Game: Soccer

Fav. One liner:

First School: Little Angels School.

Best gift: My dog… Broozo, by my parents.

Memorable moment: Getting selected for roadies

Latest purchases: Lots of shopping… The items won’t fit here

3 wishes: Just one wish ‘all my wishes come true’ greedy LOL

Dream: To become a nice human being, success comes later

Chandigarh\ Mumbai: Mumbai for now…

First Crush: I don’t have crushes on people it’s the other way round.

It appeared in the August edition of the Glimpse magazine (A monthly Lifestyle Magazine)