A tête-à-tête with the cast of Bhaag Milkha Bhaag

A tête-à-tête with the cast of Bhaag Milkha Bhaag

MUNISH DHIMAN  13th Jul 2013

The leading actors of Bhaag Milka Bhaag | Photo: Sunil Sharma akeysh Omprakash Mehra's recent biopic Bhaag Milkha Bhaag follows the life and exploits of one of India's most favourite track and field sprinter Milkha Singh, famously referred to as the Flying Sikh. The star cast of the movie including Farhan Akhtar, Sonam Kapoor, Divya Dutta, along with the director, scriptwriter and lyricist Prasoon Joshi, and Yograj Singh were in Chandigarh for the promotion of the movie. "I couldn't hold my tears when I saw the movie for the first time in London," said Milkha Singh while interacting with media in Chandigarh a day before the release. It took almost two and half years for Joshi to finish writing the script. He said, "This is a unique film as it is based not only on real life incidents but real life incidents that became history. I had been a student of literature and history and grew up hearing a lot about two Singhs — Dara Singh and Milkha Singh. The life of Milkha Singh is enormously inspiring. There have been several movies in the past porting the picture of partition but this movie portrays a child's version of the effects of partition. I feel privileged for this opportunity to create a story on a subject that itself so powerful." Best known for his award winning movies like Rang De Basanti and Delhi 6, Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra is all set with this movie that he terms as 'life defining'. He said, "It is a life defining movie for me, which is not an imitation, but an interpretation of Milkha Singh's life. We have not done anything besides making the best of the opportunity that was provided to us. I am proud of being associated with this project and I have tried my best to do justice to the story of this man of courage." It is a life defining movie for me, which is not an imitation, but an interpretation of Milkha Singh’s life  —Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra Milkha Singh has not watched any movie after the 1960s, then how did this offer come to him, and why he chose Mehra only for the job? "Jeev, my son, watches at least one movie a day and when I discussed about the story with him he said, 'If somebody has to do it, it has to be Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, as he has seen his Rang De Basanti several times'. I was so happy that a film showing my life will be accessible to millions across the globe and it will encourage more Milkhas like me to contribute towards the nation," said Singh. Akhtar, who directed trend setting movies to the industry including Dil Chahta Hai, Lakshya, Don etc, plays the lead role, and is really excited about the movie. He said, "I was nervous and apprehensive before playing this role. But gradually when I learnt about the life of this great man, emotions, that play an important role in everyone life, conquered those negative thoughts and gave me wings to fly and in tandem inspired me as well." Besides filmography, Joshi, who won National Award in 2007 for Taare Zameen Par, has also penned down the lyrics of the movie. About the music score, he said, "People have appreciated and liked my work earlier and I think the songs of this movie too will definitely touch their heart." Sonam Kapoor, who plays a small role in the movie, has worked with Mehra earlier in Delhi 6. About Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, she said, "I am sure this movie will encourage sportsmen, besides promoting sportsmen spirit. I am lucky to be a part of this venture which is a story of an international hero." http://www.sunday-guardian.com/young-restless/a-tete-a-tete-with-the-cast-of-bhaag-milkha-bhaag

Chandigarh bikers push the limits, hope for Olympic glory

Chandigarh bikers push the limits, hope for Olympic glory

MUNISH DHIMAN  20th Jul 2013

Jeevan Jeet Singh, founder of Crank Xtreme, demonstrating a stunt xtreme motorcycle stunts are no longer the only adventure sports available on two wheels to attract adrenaline junkies. But for 'Crank Xtreme', a rider owned mountain-bicycling community in Chandigarh, stoppies, wheelies, free-ride, dirt jumping and trail riding on bicycles still hold the thrill. The 5-year-old group is slowly but steadily encouraging budding stuntmen to develop and augment these skills and making efforts to popularise bicycle stunts in the region by exploring newer opportunities. 37- year-old Jeevan Jeet Singh, director and founder, believes, "Doing stunts on a bicycle or motorcycle is not an easy task. It is the outcome of several years of dedication, hard work, patience and passion. It involves high levels of risk, so those interested should be dedicated and ready for rigorous training and practice." The future of the sport is bright as it has already been introduced in Olympics as BMX race. Regarding India's participation in the Olympics in the BMX category, Singh adds, "We don't charge anything from the enthusiasts to join our club. Sole motto of our team is to motivate and support stuntmen who have the zeal and potential to achieve something. We really want to see a team participating in the BMX category in the Olympics representing India. This is not just a dream for us but a mission to be accomplished." The team does not promote performing stunts on public roads. Arun Thakur, coordinator, says, "Safety is our first priority and it should be. We make it a point that the stunts are not performed in public places unless there is an event being organised somewhere. We emphasise on the complete safety of the stuntman wherein a helmet and safety gear is compulsory. Through our group, we want to educate people about this sport and keenly spread awareness about the fact that this is a sport and those associated with it are sportsmen and not circus daredevils." The group organises two to three events annually in schools and colleges, holding summer mountain-biking camps for school children within Chandigarh and various parts of the country. Besides organising mountain-biking events, it also provides professional services in various international mountain-biking events in India. http://www.sunday-guardian.com/young-restless/chandigarh-bikers-push-the-limits-hope-for-olympic-glory

Bhajji comes to Chandigarh for music launch

Bhajji comes to Chandigarh for music launch MUNISH DHIMAN  20th Jul 2013 Harbhajan Singh at the launch with Satinder Sartaj | Photo: Vinay Kumar owling on different pitches was never difficult for Harbhajan Singh, aka the googly specialist or Bhajji, but his spell on a completely new pitch has made him nervous. Singh, who debuted as a singer with Ek Suneha has released his latest album Meri Maa under Venus label, which was launched in Chandigarh. Besides the producer, director and lyricist of the album, Punjabi singer Satinder Sartaj was also present during the occasion. Bhajji while unveiling the album said, "I can associate each and every word of the songs with my own life. As the name suggests, it's an album about the selfless love, care, affection and dedication of a mother. It is a tribute from me not just to my mother but to motherhood. I am nothing more than a bathroom singer but singing in this album is an apt example of making most of the opportunity given." Bhajji's first song had a strong message for all those singers and lyricists who have taken the Punjabi language for granted. He says, "My earlier song was a message but this song is a dedication. I am a great fan of quality music and quality videos that reflect the rich culture and traditions of the land of five rivers and this, is my contribution towards it." "Initially, Gurdass Mann was approached to sing the song but due to some personal reasons he could not lend his voice to the song and it was all after hearing the lyrics that I decided to take the risk," claims Singh. Besides singing, Harbhajan has also appeared in the album video. While sharing his experience with Guardian20, Singh quips, "Facing the camera was nothing new to me as I have done various commercials, but this experience was really far-fetched. A commercial is not more than 30 seconds and you don't have to really memorise dialogues and act. But here, I had to sing, act and remain calm at the same time, which fuelled my nervousness." Champak Jain, director of Venus Group said, "People do have their favourites and they would love to listen to the music of their favourite artists. We would try to explore the singing talents of other stars and will be more than happy to release it." http://www.sunday-guardian.com/young-restless/bhajji-comes-to-chandigarh-for-music-launch

The inside story of who gains the most from sale season

The inside story of who gains the most from sale season

MUNISH DHIMAN  27th Jul 2013

People shopping at the Sector 17 market in Chandigarh hopping behaviour ranges from impulsive buying, to need-generated, to forced. Out of these, one pattern which is easily encountered is buying during sales. Indeed a marketing manoeuvre, 'sale seasons' help companies clear stock as well as increase revenue. However, for customers it offers a good opportunity to stock-up their wardrobe with 'in-style' apparels and accessories at affordable rates. But do these sales really matter, and if they do, who benefits more? Harkirat Singh, MD, Woodland tells Guardian20, "With more than 400 exclusive woodland outlets throughout the country, the annual turnover from these company-owned stores is about 600 crores and out of this, some 25 per cent revenue is earned during the season-end sale periods. People do benefit a lot during sales as they keep visiting the store and are aware of pre-sale prices as well. This practice eventually helps them in spending money intelligently. The percentage of rebate offered varies from product to product. Hypothetically, if a company launches 100 new products every year, out of these, some will be slow movers and some fast movers. So how much discount is to be offered depends on the demand of that particular product. With the change of season we want our customers to buy the best at lesser prices, and this practice, is a two-way requirement." Akshay Kapoor, CEO, Krome, multi-brand store, believes, "Sales add approximately 25-40 per cent of the revenue of a retail outlet because during the season, trade definitely shoots up. Krome offers almost 48-54 brands under one roof and during a season's sale there are different offers on different brands. It varies from individual to individual how to benefit from these offers." An IIM Ahmedabad study on the retail sector, recently highlighted by a leading newspaper, conducted in a leading mall comprising organised retail stores in the city, concluded that most of the attractive offers on discount signage are misleading. The survey also revealed that around 66% of the promotions regarding huge discounts in organised retail stores were deceptive. Prof Dheeraj Sharma chairperson, marketing area, and faculty, marketing and organisational behaviour, IIMA, led the team. It was also reported that consumers are still not aware of their rights and are being misled and similar studies will be conducted in Delhi and a few other cities too. These so-called brands cheat people by putting a 1000-rupee tag on a 100-rupee item and then sell it at 70% discount  — Arvind Jain Toeing the same line, Arvind Jain, General Secretary, All India Federation of Cloth Retailers Association says, "The concept of sale is nothing but a fraud to cheat the consumer. There was a time when retailers used to benefit from sales. A margin of more than 400-500 per cent was achieved but this has now shrunk drastically. These so-called brands cheat people by putting a 1000-rupee tag on a 100-rupee item and then sell it at 70% discount. But the irony is that there's no check on the percentage of rebate as it solely depends on the retailer." While retailers differ in their views, consumers are still driven to make the best of the sale season. "Sales do attract me but it's never impetuous. I visit the shop and look for quality products with reasonable prices that fit my pocket. I plan my purchase on four parameters precisely — quality, brand, affordability and last but not the least, utility. Sometimes I do buy stuff which I do not require immediately as I may use it later as gifts," says Harkamal Kaur, an HR professional. Youngsters these days end up saving money specially for shopping during sale season. Mansi Gupta, an image management consultant says, "For me 'sale' is a festival as it is for any other shopper. On one hand, we do not buy what we do not need and on the other we generate need for what we have bought. Thanks to the 'sale culture' we buy many things which, otherwise are out of reach. Yes, I wait for this season and plan my shopping accordingly. After all, who would not like to look trendy without breaking our piggy banks?" http://www.sunday-guardian.com/young-restless/the-inside-story-of-who-gains-the-most-from-sale-season

Young bands look to make it big on the national stage

Young bands look to make it big on the national stage

MUNISH DHIMAN  27th Jul 2013

Members of the band The Local Train espite the change in the music scene, rock bands have retained their popularity and footing among music lovers, mostly through continued live performances. We catch up with few bands that have become a regular feature in the musical calendars of various restaurants and clubs across the city. Their fresh original tracks went viral online taking them to the top of the indie circuit and even beyond. Brainchild of Ramit Mehra and Raman Negi, The Local Train was formed in 2008 and became an instant hit with their song Choo Lo. The band consists of Sahil Sarin and Paras Thakur, besides the founder members. After several live performances across India, the band is now looking forward to bringing out their album this year. The founders tell Guardian20, "Forming a band is not an easy task. All the members of the band come from different musical backgrounds and it takes time to understand each other. It's music but it's also a tough business, and to survive in the industry is a real challenge. The feedback we have received is varied but Nagesh Kukunoor's was really encouraging. He said, 'A good tune grabs me or it doesn't- it's very instinctual. The tune of Choo Lo grabbed me on the first pass, it reminds me of the 70's and 80's rock ballads combined with a nice dose of Indianness'." Original lyrics have remained the strength of our band and today we have more than 25 self-composed and self-produced songs to our credit  — The Green Chorus Winning the Chandigarh Launch Pad on Channel [V] propelled The Green Chorus band into the mainstream. "The journey of any band is not easy and there are new challenges that you have to face every day. Every other event and each audience is a challenge and you have no choice than to give your best every time," believe the founder members of the band. Conceptualised by Abhishek David, Gurkanwar Singh Sra, Sahil Sharma and Gurnazar Chattha, the Green Chorus band started performing in 2012 and till date has given more than 500 performances across India. "We got really good exposure during the national shows. Original lyrics have remained the strength of our band and today we have more than 25 self-composed and self-produced songs to our credit," they say. Today the band has seven members, where the founders take care of guitar and vocals and Bhupender, Ravi Hans and Lakshay Sharma take care of the drums, flute and keyboards respectively. The band is keen on composing music for movies and they are also working on one untitled Punjabi film as well. The Green Chorus Finance and convincing family and peers remain another obstacle that some of the members of different bands come across. Despite such adversities another Chandigarh based band Pratyaksh was formed in 2011 by Himanshu Sharma and Kunal Kushwah. "We knew the taste and had an idea of the music appreciated by the youth these days. Chandigarh is a hub where people from different backgrounds meet, and the idea behind creating the band was to cater to these emerging trends. We wanted to stand out from the existing bands and our mission was to enthrall the audience," they said. Where most of the bands perform with guitars and drums, the inclusion of tabla, harmonica, cajon, congo-bongo and harmonium was a testing situation for the band but they sailed through making a place for themselves in the industry. The band also got their names registered in the Limca Book of Records for the longest musical run of 14 hours in association with 94.3 My Fm. Aayat, another Chandigarh based band formed in 2012, by Stanley Choudhary, Willy TG, Goldie Naaz, Jonny, and Aman Suraj believes in change. "Ours is a multi-genre band and no other band of our level carries acoustic instruments including the cajon, tabla, dhol, dholak, darbuka, and jambe. With these instruments we try to add something new to the existing flavours of music and this creativity remains the essence of the band," claim the members. http://www.sunday-guardian.com/young-restless/young-bands-look-to-make-it-big-on-the-national-stage

Lounge bars gain popularity with GenX

Lounge bars gain popularity with GenX

MUNISH DHIMAN  27th Jul 2013

Interiors at Buzz Chandigarh has seen a drastic change in the recent past with the opening of various lounges and bars. The concept has tightened its grip over the market and seems is here to stay, as such places offer a gourmet meal, music and alcohol under the same roof. Lounges have also become quite popular with a new generation of well travelled and informed individuals. Guardian20 decided to speak with a few of loungers in the city abot their favourite joints and preferences. Ria Suri, an IT professional says, "I like going to Virgin Courtyard as the place has a unique ambiance with a backyard and nicely done interiors. The place offers a multi cuisine menu and I go there to relax and catch up with my friends. The food is nice and I like the presentation and quick service too. Moreover to quench your thirst, there's a wide range of cocktails and mocktails available." Rhydham Aggarwal, an ASM with Godrej, says, "The new place for our group is UnderDoggs. The sports bar has a lot to offer in terms of games to go with drinks. What is unique is that one can enjoy drinks together while playing pool, foosball, table tennis etc. And when it comes to watching a big game of cricket, we prefer going there as there are lots of screens." The lounge and bar concept has basically evolved from regular bars but differs on the kind of experience they provide and an overall inclusive nature. "I love going to lounge bars; especially because most of them are based on one or the other theme and their ambience is accordingly created. I try new places but I am a big fan of Chili's and it remains in the list of my favourite destinations in Chandigarh to hang out with friends," says Surbhi Sharma, an IAS aspirant. Tushar Bhasin, a businessman and resident of sector-28, says, "Lounge bars are in and there you could avoid cheap crowd, which also includes anti-social elements. These places are totally safe to drink with groovy music and fantastic lighting. I prefer going to Buzz-Chandigarh. It is a nice place with a diverse and affordable menu." "The concept of lounge-bar has become popular, and is swiftly picking up as it offers an atmosphere that is more comfortable and relaxed; has resident DJs who play new age independent music and also offers different kinds of mixes, and world class cuisines at one place," says Ankit Chopra, a PG student. http://www.sunday-guardian.com/young-restless/lounge-bars-gain-popularity-with-genx

Of gorgonzola, antipasti and the Alps

Of gorgonzola, antipasti and the Alps

MUNISH DHIMAN  27th Jul 2013

Guest Chef Daniele Trivero and Chef Antonello | Photo: T. S Bedi njoy regional flavours of the Piedmont region, Italy, as guest Chef Daniele Trivero and Marriott's Chef Antonello brings 'Piedmontese Cuisine' during a new food festival at Oregano, JW Marriott. The Piedmont region is famous for its scenic beauty, nestled in the foothills of the Alps, and its wines and milk products. The best-known wines from the region include Barolo and Barbaresco whereas one of the best cheeses is gorgonzola, a veined blue cheese. While talking about the response to Italian cuisine in Chandigarh chef Antonello says, "The response is really good as people are open to try and taste new dishes and cuisines. They are well travelled, hence are aware of their choices. Italian cuisine is very rich and healthy and therefore attracts a majority of food aficionados." Guest Chef Trivero says, "We have included various dishes from the region and hope that people will really relish the offerings. pannacotta, in deserts and risotto in the main course remain hot favourites among vegetarian diners, whereas bianco di galleto insalatina di germogli is the antipasti for non-vegetarians." He informed that this dish is originally made with rabbit, but chicken breast is used at the festival as not many people prefer rabbit meat in this part of the country. Piedmont's cuisine is famous for the immense variety of antipasti (starters). Though there can be as many as ten and even more different antipasti in a Piedmontese meal, the fare usually start with at least four. Cold dishes are followed by hot ones and usually concluded with different types of home-made desserts. Trivero confirms, "Starters including salads come first, followed by the main course and the meal ends with a variety of mouth watering desserts." The crafted menu includes 4 varieties of non-vegetarian vegetarian starters. The main course options include 4 varieties of vegetarian of non-vegetarian dishes. http://www.sunday-guardian.com/young-restless/of-gorgonzola-antipasti-and-the-alps

TFT organises 2nd theatre fest

TFT organises 2nd theatre fest

MUNISH DHIMAN  27th Jul 2013

A scene from the play, Baldey Tibbey heatre for Theatre (TFT) group in collaboration with the Department of Information, Public Relations & Cultural Affairs, Haryana, is all set to organise the second TFT Summer Theatre Festival in Chandigarh from 28 to 30 July. Dedicated and devoted to the creative utilisation of folk and modern theatre through the use of contemporary playwrights, directors and actors TFT organises various theatre festivals in the region. Sudesh Sharma, director, TFT says, "We organise four festivals every year including the Basant festival, a summer festival, a winter festival, and the Oscar theatre festival to promote theatre in the region. Besides these festivals we organise various workshops including make-up, language, martial art, and lighting, along with set designing. etc to inculcate various skills." July 28: Baldey Tibbey, a Punjabi period play that depicts different aspects of the three Zs — zar, zoru, and zameen. July 29: Veer Raja Naahar Singh, a Hindi play set in the Ballabhgarh district of Haryana depicting the life and rise of Raja Naahar Singh and his role in the 1857 uprising. July 30: 4 Din, a critical play based on the increasing cases of rapes and molestations.Time: 7 PM everydayVenue: Tagore Theatre, Sector 18 http://www.sunday-guardian.com/young-restless/tft-organises-2nd-theatre-fest

Wedding Asia presents best of bridal couture

Wedding Asia presents best of bridal couture

MUNISH DHIMAN  27th Jul 2013

Guests at Wedding Asia Exhibition fter its inception in 2006, and several successful editions, Wedding Asia has been one of the most sought after exhibitions in this part of the region. From formal party wears to bridal trousseau, and from dress materials to pret-a-porter attires, there are more than 20 exhibitors who have showcased their work at the 8th edition of the exhibition at JW Marriot, Chandigarh. Anu Seth, organiser, tells Guardian20, "This is a complete wedding exhibition where a customer gets a variety of options to choose the best dress designer, jeweller, photographer and wedding accessories all under one roof. Our endeavour has remained a huge success as we try to give something new to our clients every time. We make sure that 60% of the exhibitors are first timers at the exhibition because this variation gives a better variety in every edition. Space is a constraint in Chandigarh so the number of stalls at the event remains 40-45 in every event." Traditional as well as fashion and diamond jewellery, precious & semi precious jewellery to stone & silver jewellery, wedding accessories to lifestyle refinements and from honeymoon destinations to caterers, the exhibition has it all to make it another spectacular event. The range has everything from casual coats, shirts, trousers, lehangas, saris, gowns, cocktail wear etc. This year, Asia's most premier wedding extravaganza will be held at the tricity from July 26 — 28. http://www.sunday-guardian.com/young-restless/wedding-asia-presents-best-of-bridal-couture

Professional ballet and ballroom training

Professional ballet and ballroom training

MUNISH DHIMAN  27th Jul 2013

Akshay Sharma | Photo: Deepak Chauhan hose, who thought learning ballet was not possible in Chandigarh, have a reason to celebrate as The Engine Room, a high-tech dance training facility in sector-8, offers top-of-the-line training in the elegant dance form. Brainchild of Puneet Jewandah and Kritika Sharma, The Engine Room aims at providing expert training to dance enthusiasts. Jewndah says, "In the dearth of professional training institutes people had to go to Delhi or Mumbai to learn various dance forms including ballet and ballroom which are difficult dance forms. Our aim behind starting this venture was to give a platform to people who want to learn dance religiously." Step wise programmes have been designed for trainees where basics will be taught at the first level for about a month, followed by an intermediate level training for next few months and concluding with the last level, the final capsule. "Salsa, contemporary, jazz, hip hop, belly dancing, street jazz, bhangra and Bollywood classes have already started and now we have become a dance institute that offers authentic ballet and ballroom training. This is not the only feature that attracts people; we also offer power yoga, bhangra aerobics and zumba to fitness enthusiasts," adds Kritika. 24-year-old versatile ballet and ballroom trainer and expert Akshay Sharma has been roped in to teach forms like cha-cha, waltz and tango. Sharma tells Guardian20, "After better exposure in ballet training in Delhi it's a homecoming for me after four years. I am happy that enthusiasts from Chandigarh will be able to benefit from the programme, especially those who are dedicated to learn. " "I want to begin with some basics like explaining the difference between belly and ballet dancing. Anyone can pick up the nuances of ballet but it is worth mentioning here that this is an extremely technical dance form. Though anybody can learn ballet but there can be injuries if alertness is subsided. It is however advised that a person should be fit to learn the dance," adds Sharma. http://www.sunday-guardian.com/young-restless/professional-ballet-and-ballroom-training

Aditi Govitrikar- Reflection of Myself

Aditi Govitrikar |

Lucky to have tea with Gaddafi in his bunker

MUNISH DHIMAN  13th Jul 2013

Aditi Govitrikar | Actor Q. Describe a recent vivid dream you had. A. I dreamt that I went on an expedition to the Arctic Circle and was somehow left behind by the group. I was all alone without any basic supplies and survived on sheer will power for almost a week. I discovered a rare plant whilst wandering there which I brought back with me after being rescued and a botanist realised that it is a cure for cancer. Q. Name two things which you'd call comfort food. A. Milk and homemade dal. Q. Name a book which you were sad to finish. A. Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle. Q. Name an occasion where you thought, "I'm lucky to have witnessed this." A. Tea with Muammar al-Gaddafi, in one of his bunkers in Libya, is one such moment of my life. Q. If you were marooned on a deserted island, name three things you'd like to have with you. A. Toothbrush, food and water. Q. If you absolutely had to live somebody else's life for a day, who would it be? A. My daughter's! It will help me to know how and what she thinks deep inside. It will help me bond much more with her and strengthen our relationship to another level. http://www.sunday-guardian.com/young-restless/lucky-to-have-tea-with-gaddafi-in-his-bunker