Ramchand Pakistani (Movie Review)

Stellar performances make it an emotionally engrossing watch

by Arpana

Cross border problems is the basic theme of first time Pakistani director Mehreen Jabbar's "Ramchand Pakistani". Since partition in 1947, India and Pakistan have fought three wars, excluding the Kargil conflict. Six decades after partition, the common man continues to pay a heavy price for the tension between the two countries. There are several cases of innocent people from India and Pakistan who are caught and sent to jail on mere suspicion. Mehreen's film focuses on the human sufferings on both sides of the border and she has succeeded in giving it unbiased treatment. The stellar performances by the entire cast make "Ramchand Pakistani" an emotionally engrossing watch.Set in 2002, the film, inspired by a true story, is about the accidental crossing of the Pakistan-India border by a boy and his father."The film is based on actual events. My father (former Pakistani politician and filmmaker Javed Jabbar) works a lot in the areas close to the desert. One day he came across a father-son duo who narrated their story to him. That is where we got the inspiration to make this film. I am sure it will reach out to audiences," said Mehreen.The film revolves around Ramchand, an eight-year-old Dalit Hindu boy. He lives with his parents - mother Champa (Nandita Das) and father Shankar (Rashid Farooqui) - in a village in the border area of Pakistan.One day, after a fight with his mother, Ramchand runs away from home. While walking aimlessly, he accidentally crosses the border not knowing this will cost him his freedom. His father spots him crossing the line of control and tries to stop him. In doing so, he too crosses the border. As expected, the boy and his father are caught and put in a jail in India. After that starts their long battle to prove their innocence and secure freedom.While at the mercy of jail authorities, Shankar tries to cope with the trauma of forced separation from his mother. His mother is shattered by their sudden disappearance. Nandita is the only non-Pakistani actor in "Ramchand Pakistani". Well-known Pakistani TV and stage actors like Rashid Farooqi, Maria Wasti and Farooq Pario's performances are specially noteworthy.Fazal Hussain, who plays the eight-year-old protagonist Ramchand, has been particularly appreciated for his outstanding performance."The younger Ramchand has been played by Fazal Hussain. A friend of mine who is a director himself suggested him after a lot of search. The older one, however, is 14 years old. He is the son of a mechanic in Pakistan and has acted for the first time ever in any film," said Mehreen. The no-frills film is made at a nominal budget. Technically, the film is not of high quality, but Mehreen's narrative manages to hold the viewers' attention till the credits roll out.Cast: Nandita Das, Rashid Farooqui, Noman Ijaz, Syed Fazal Hussain, Navaid Jabbar Maria WastiDirector: Mehreen JabbarIndo-Asian News Service

'Fruit And Nut' (Movie Review)

Likely to drive you nuts

by Joginder Tuteja

Cast: Cyrus Broacha, Dia Mirza, Boman Irani, Mahesh Manjrekar, Rajit KapoorDirector: Kunal Vijaykar"Fruit And Nut" is a film which is neither sweet as a fruit not crunchy as a nut. In fact the best way to describe it is that its makers must have actually gone totally nuts in sanctioning a film - if it can actually be termed so - like this. It is one thing to go bizarre, break the norms and come up with a quirky affair, but it's an altogether different thing if the makers become completely overconfident, try to be extra smart and ultimately fall flat on their face. "Fruit And Nut" falls in the latter category. For a movie that has been sold as a quickie comedy, there is not even a single scene that actually makes you roll with laughter. At most, there could be a faint smile or two at a few junctures. The film by itself is not even silly enough to be laughed at, if not laughed along with. In fact the latter half is so unbearable that you actually contemplate walking out of the auditorium. Thankfully, it is the 'unusual suspect' Mahesh Manjrekar who actually manages to make you at least remain seated till the end credits start rolling. "Fruit And Nut" tries to pack a lot in the overall narrative by introducing newer situations and characters practically every 10 minutes. Cyrus Broacha is a loser who doesn't fit into any role, whether it is being an office clerk, radio jockey, watchman or even a help at a pizza shop. He fumbles at every step, literally so. Exaggeration is the name of the game here and though one understands where director Kunal was coming from when he created a character like this, it becomes a little too much to digest just 15 minutes into the film. Dia Mirza as the "lady in sari" is a pleasant watch though and carries a touch-me-not persona around her for most of the film. As a young woman who has been kidnapped, she does exude vibes of being someone who deserves to be rescued. However, the kidnapper in question, Boman Irani, gets annoying at places with his 'Breakfast Kiya' phrase. Of course the purpose here was to irritate but then there is always a thin line between an irritating character and an irritating actor. Thankfully, this is where Mahesh Manjrekar comes in handy as his one liners do manage to bring on smiles at frequent intervals. Yes, just like all other characters in the film, he too is quite bizarre. One doesn't quite mind that since the dialogues mouthed by him - a mix of Hindi, English and plain gibberish - belong to never-heard before variety. His novelty too starts fading as the reels progress. In between all this 'hardly amusing' madness, there are additional characters like the villain's henchmen, a cop, hired assassins Salim & Sulaiman, a beggar turned RAW agent and a scientist - all of whom only make this 100-minute film seem like double its length. In the past, there have been quite a few quirky movies made and all have met with diverse results. "Honeymoon Travels Pvt. Ltd" worked while "Bheja Fry" paved the way for many more humorous films to come. However, in the last few months, there have also been releases like "Aagey Se Right" and "Quick Gun Murugan", none of which managed to make any impact whatsoever at the box office. "Fruit And Nut" is all set to suffer a worse fate at the theatres. Indo-Asian News Service

Wasim Akram bowled over by Sushmita Sen

Former Pakistani cricketer finds her 'incredible'

by Radhika Bhirani

Wasim Akram is currently co-judging the reality TV show "Ek Khiladi Ek Hasina" with Sushmita

Guess who's making former Pakistan cricket captain and swing king Wasim Akram sway to her tunes nowadays? Bollywood actress and former beauty queen Sushmita Sen.Akram, who is currently co-judging an Indian reality TV show "Ek Khiladi Ek Hasina" with Sushmita, is totally gaga over the actress."I think she is an incredible person, very helpful, extremely professional and, yes, she has really made me comfortable on the show," Akram told IANS in an interview.Akram first interacted with Sushmita in Dubai in 2006."I met her about two years ago in Dubai. We did a telethon for Imran Khan's cancer hospital together. That was two days in a row and almost three hours live on TV. So I got to interact with her. We managed to raise quite a bit of money," he said.Sushmita was also one of the reasons why he agreed to be on the judging panel of this show."So far the game is really exciting and fun. It's something very different and that's why I agreed to the show and, plus, I was told that Sushmita would be there; so I agreed.""Ek Khiladi Ek Hasina" airs on Colors and pits six pairs of a cricketer and a TV actress each to display their dancing skills. The cricketers on the show include S. Sreesanth, Harbhajan Singh, Vinod Kambli, Irfan Pathan, Dinesh Kartik and Nikhil Mehra.In one of the recent episodes, Akram has been seen reciting shayari (Urdu couplets) to flatter the actress, but he has not shaken a leg with her so far. Any plans?"Maybe. In fact, they have tried to make me dance, but I really can't handle that sort of pressure. Playing the world cup final twice was okay, but not this," he says.Akram is also entirely dependent on Sushmita to judge the dancing capabilities of the contestants, as he "can't make out the head or tail of dancing"."I wanted to see how the cricketers behave on the stage. I'm not judging the technicalities of their dance. For that Sushmita is there. I have no clue about dancing, what would I comment. I'm not looking at their steps at all. For me, their passion is important," he said.He added: "We are not looking for a dance icon who would go into Bollywood and dance. The idea is to have cricketers dancing and see how they do on the stage. The girls, all six of them, are very talented and excellent. But, for the boys, it's a new thing."So what is his criterion for judging? "For me it's like one day cricket - perform on the day, if you play well, you'll win."Akram feels that though such a show will be a hit in Pakistan, not many cricketers there will agree to take part in it."It will be a big hit there no doubt, but where will the Pakistani cricketers dance there? I don't think the Pakistani cricketers will dance. First let them play well at least," he said and laughed.A lot of actors in India and Pakistan are looking to make a mark in Bollywood, but Akram feels otherwise."I do enjoy acting and watching movies. But acting is a proper profession; you have to learn for it. I've seen cricketers who have done films. But after one or two films, they are not seen any more and I don't want to be one of them."I am happy to leave acting in Bollywood to Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan and Amitabh Bacchan - all these great actors," said Akram.Indo-Asian News Service

'Nothing was planned in my career'

Actor Boman Irani earlier tried his luck at selling potato chips, photography and theatre

In his first movie "Josh", he had a fleeting appearance. Eight years later Boman Irani is known as a niche actor with the ability to pull audiences. But he doesn't like to be labelled a star and says he is just an average person who loves it when kids approach him."I'm not a hero or a superstar. I'm an everyday guy. I feel happy when children approach me. I feel that something good is happening in life when little kids recognise me," Boman told IANS in an interview.After a humble beginning with Mansoor Khan's "Josh", Boman shot to fame as the eccentric Dr. J.C. Asthana in Rajkumar Hirani's 2003 hit comedy "Munnabhai M.B.B.S.".He has since then won kudos for his powerful performances in films like "Lage Raho Munna Bhai", "Khosla Ka Ghosla", "Don - The Chase Begins Again" and "Honeymoon Travels Pvt. Ltd".Boman says he doesn't mind people remembering him more for "Munnabhai" than for his other roles."I don't mind being identified as any character as long as I'm doing a good job as an actor. I have done all kinds of roles - from an editor, judge, police officer, murderer to a corrupt businessman. And if people identify me as Dr. Asthana or Lucky Singh from 'Munnabhai' movies, I am happy," said Boman."After 'Munnabhai M.B.B.S.' happened, I haven't looked back," added the actor who was in New Delhi to shoot for his forthcoming film "99".Talking about "99", he said: "It is based in the year 1999 and I play a gambler who wants the world to know him as a normal office-goer. I sport a French beard in the film," said Boman.The film is being directed by US-based Indian directors - Raj Nidimuro and Krishna D.K. - who have earlier made "Shor" and "Flavors"."99" also stars Soha Ali Khan, Kunal Khemu, Cyrus Broacha, Simone Singh, Mahesh Manjrekar and Vinod Khanna.On being asked what kind of roles he prefers, Boman asserted: "The moment you say I want to do a role, the story suffers. I don't set priorities in terms of roles or scripts."Although he is not choosy about roles, his favourite character is Lucky Singh from the National Award-winning movie "Lage Raho Munna Bhai"."I like Lucky Singh a lot because he is a confused character. He is a good man but does things in the wrong way. Despite that he is a family man," he said."My favourite co-stars are Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan and Shabana Azmi."Before moving on to the big screen, Boman tried his luck at the family business of selling potato chips, photography and theatre. He also did TV commercials."Nothing was planned in my career. I just went with the flow and took everything that came to me. Selling potato chips was obvious as it was a family business. When friends suggested I should try theatre, I gave it a shot. Then I did a lot of advertisements and then movies happened."However, photography is the only thing that I wanted to do. I still carry my camera wherever I go and keep on taking pictures of anything and everything that excites me. I have thousands of pictures in my collection."I don't know when, but it is definitely in my mind to exhibit my photographs some day."Besides "99", Boman will be seen in "Little Zizou", "Fruit & Nut", "Maharathi", "Three Idiots", "Sorry Bhai", "Banda Yeh Bindaas Hai", "Yuvraaj" and the sequel to "Don...".He has also lent his voice to Nikhil Advani's animation movie "Ab Dilli Door Nahin".Dabbling between his various projects, the actor is satisfied as "acting gives the luxury to create something new every time".Indo-Asian News Service

'I'm not in love with Rahul Mahajan'

Monica Bedi also has no plans to get married, she tells masala.com

by Sonia Sharma

It’s hard to not sympathise with Monica Bedi. Beneath the label of a gangster’s moll lies a delicate, ultra-feminine girl with a steely resolve. Perhaps it was this resolve that made her stick by gangster boyfriend Abu Salem’s side even when he was on the run. Or maybe it was plain and simple love. Whatever it was, all it brought her was nasty jibes and unflattering labels. Now that the storm has passed, calm prevails over Monica. After months of keeping mum, she’s bared her soul finally and is also inking an autobiography on her experiences. She’s ready for a new lease of life, one that reality show “Bigg Boss” has given her, and is working towards making her way back into showbiz. In a frank conversation with masala.com, Monica speaks about why she’s a stronger person today. Excerpts:How’s life treating you these days? Have things changed after Bigg Boss?Yes. A lot for that matter. Life’s a little easier post the show. I am getting good film offers and people have become a little more charitable towards me. They are willing to know me for the person I am and are less judgemental about my past. Do you watch Bigg Boss?Sometimes. Whenever I get the time. Not regularly. Rahul Mahajan was given the song Monica, O My Darling to dance to. What’s your reaction? (Laughs) Jaan bhoojke (deliberately). They did it just to tease Rahul. They don’t want Rahul to forget me.Ahem! Do you want to forget him? You were with him all the time on the show…I’m not in love with him! He is like that with every girl. Does my being with him all the time imply something? I don’t think so. We heard you’re penning an autobiography. Will you bare all in it?I am working on it. If all goes well, I will be done in a few months. Everything I write in it will be 100 per cent truth. I’ll reveal every part of my life, right from my childhood to now. I want people to know about my life. I’m not ashamed of anything I have done. Whatever happened is a part of everything I am. And I have accepted that. Life’s been hard for you. How has your perspective changed?I have become a stronger person due to my experiences. I have also become more careful. Now I try not to see the bad in people. I just accept them as they are. Also, I have become a stronger person – mentally and emotionally. To whom did you turn for support when you were undergoing trial? God. My release has made my belief stronger that there is God. I just wanted the court to acknowledge that I am innocent. I prayed throughout my ordeal that I am proven innocent. I spent five years battling trials, accusations and humiliation. No one can return to me those five wasted years but yes, I am glad I have come out of it. My family too supported me in my bad times. Did anyone from the film industry stick by you?No, not a single person. Even my best friends left me when I was in trouble. Will you allow your autobiography to be made into a film?Let me finish writing it first. Lots of filmmakers have approached me to make a film on my life, but I will decide only after I complete my book. The director should be good – something who does full justice to my story. I wouldn’t want a masala film to be made on my life. Will you act in it too?Yes, I will. I want my acting career back. You have worked earlier with David Dhawan and Rajiv Rai. Have you approached them for a comeback? No, I haven’t approached anyone. But I have been getting offers, some of them pretty good. How has the film industry changed since you were here?There’s a lot of difference. Earlier it was more about the big screen. Film people didn’t want to do television. Now the small screen has grown so much that big stars are also on it. There’s a lot more work available and more opportunities to be tapped.Post Bigg Boss, what’s keeping you busy?Interviews, photo shoots and so on. My autobiography also needs attention. I want to release it in four months. But I hardly get time for it. Suddenly you’re on your own. Does that scare you?Not really. Being independent always feels good. I have been working since the age of 16 years. So I have been on my own for quite some time. It’s not a new feeling. Any plans of getting married? No, not at this point. I want to concentrate solely on acting.

It’s All About Gauri

“The greatest mum, the hottest wife, the best friend – there just isn’t anything that Gauri Khan is not,” says her best friend Karan Johar.

“SRK-Gauri are karmically connected – they are soulmates. I think they’re very lucky to have met one another at such a young age and have had such a beautiful marriage.”At home...“She is the same person at home as she is outside – that’s why she is so special. There’s nothing different – and this is what makes her unique.”As a mum...“She is a totally hands-on mum. She is obsessed with her kids and spends 20 hours of the day with them. They fight like cats and dogs, which is cute. Shah Rukh and Gauri are not strict parents, they are lenient, but are grounded and know where to draw the line.”The first time you met her...“It was with SRK on the sets of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and we connected immediately. We started chatting and in three days we became friends. I knew she was going to be a part of my life forever then.”As a chef...“Gauri can’t cook but tries her hand at desserts. My favourite is this one dessert she makes with ice cream, biscuits and chocolate sauce. The strange concoction tastes great.”As a food lover...“She loves Indian food, but doesn’t like restaurants at all. She prefers being at home.“As a wife...“Gauri is an honest person. What you see, is what you get. She gives SRK his space, and fills that space beautifully. She is his reality check at almost every juncture and keeps everything on level.”As a friend...“She is a very live-and-let-live friend and will always be there for you in whatever circumstances. She is my best friend and will always be.”As the woman SRK fell in love with...“If anyone knew Gauri Khan the way SRK did then, they would have fallen in love with her too. She is one of the nicest human beings I have ever met – very solid. She is clean, honest, and always positive about everything. Her strength of character makes her the way she is – she is a strong woman. Everything that you could look for in a woman or want, you can find in Gauri. She is a beautiful and loving wife.”

‘Mr Bachchan is fun'

She may be new to B’wood, but Miss Sri Lanka Jacqueline Fernandes knows exactly what to say!

She’s already set a record as the first Sri Lankan beauty queen in Bollywood. And she’s making her Bolly debut in a film starring none other than Amitabh Bachchan! Look out for the sexy and savvy Jacqueline Fernandes. She may just emerge as the hottest Gen Y heroine.How did you feel about coming to Bollywood?Before I came into Bollywood a lot of people told me it’s a corrupt industry and you need a godfather to survive in it. Nothing’s really happened to me. I think no one can force you to do things you don’t want to. It all comes down to how you conduct your own self.What was your first day on the sets of Aladin like?I was nervous. I think no matter how many times you have been there and done that in front of the camera, you still have those first-day butterflies every time.How did you react when you met Amitabh?It was great meeting a legend like Mr Bachchan. I was in a state of awe. It’s quite a crazy feeling when you meet an icon. But once you know him he is like any normal person, but with a heart of gold. He is very energetic and fun. Do you think Sanjay is evil enough for his role as ringmaster?I don’t know about how evil he is in real life, but Sanjay is a fantastic actor and manages to pull off any character. He has done something really extraordinary as the ringmaster, as you’ll see.

Genelia's learning Greek!

She wants to be prepared for her trip to Greece

The “Jaane Tu Jaane Na” girl Genelia D'Souza, who is not conversant with Hindi, is all set to learn Greek now! Apparently she is preparing for her visit to Greece where she will be shooting for Anees Bazmee's “It’s my Life” with Harman Baweja. Genelia is learning the basics of the language but she finds it quite difficult. According to sources, she has learnt to speak some basic words in Greek like Good Morning, Good Afternoon etc. As far as we know, Genelia generally finds languages difficult, especially Hindi!

The kissing scene goes missing

Lip-lock between Sanjay Dutt and Vidya Malavade chopped from 'Kidnap'

The much talked about kissing scene between Sanjay Dutt and Vidya Malavade has been chopped from “Kidnap”. According to director Sanjay Gadhvi, the scene was cut in response to the feedback from the audience. The viewers were not happy to see an elderly couple lip-locked and hence after much consideration he decided to remove the scene from the film. Also, there were rumours that Sanju's wife, Manyata, had issues with the scene. When contacted, Manyata denied the rumour saying she had nothing to do with the removal of the scene and that she does not interfere in Sanju's work. www.masala.com/

Kareena to launch her own website

It is going to be fashion oriented

Joining the league of international stars like Victoria Beckham, Madonna and Jennifer Lopez, Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor is all set to launch her own website.The site would inform netizens about the actress' latest fashion trends."Kareena's official website is going to be on an absolutely tech savvy format. It's going to be on the lines of the sites of international stars like Victoria Beckham, Madonna and Jennifer," a source close to the actress revealed on Tuesday.The source added: "Her website is going to be more fashion oriented. The site will have updates not only of Kareena's fashion trends but also other trends that take place all over the globe". The actress has been known for her fashion presence even in the fashion fraternity and looks forward to sharing her trend sense with her fans through the site."She has sound knowledge about the fashion industry and the website will give her a chance to share her fashion knowledge with her fans. There have been a number of occasions when Kareena has even actively participated in designing her own costumes for films," said the source.Kareena is also the brand ambassador of a global fashion retail chain Globus.Indo-Asian News Service www.masala.com/newsletter

Oscar bound film’s director denied US visa

US consulate in Mumbai did not know Paresh Mokashi

Paresh Mokashi, whose Marathi film "Harishchandrachi Factory" has been selected as India's official entry to the Oscars, is stuck without a visa to the US.The US consulate in Mumbai refused to give him the visa, saying they didn't know him or that his film is going for the Oscars. "I don't really blame them. I didn't have a face that was instantly recognisable. They didn't know who I was. And I had no papers to prove that this disoriented looking man had made a film that had been sent to the Oscars," Mokashi told IANS. The director had no papers, not even a letter from the Academy Awards committee to prove his eligibility for the visa because he had given all the documents to his producers - UTV. "Whatever intimation I received about the Oscar entry from the US, I handed over to UTV. But, of course, the US consulate didn't say I was lying. They rightly felt I was not eligible until I had the documents. This was my first encounter for an American visa. And naturally my first trip to the US," said Mokashi. "The only time I've been abroad was to London to shoot a part of 'Hrishchandrachi Factory'. So I was completely unaware of how things work. I don't know how to handle it," added the director who had to mortgage his property to make the film. UTV had to step in to rescue the director, who needs to be in LA from Nov 2. "The US consulate has promised to give me a visa after taking my passport. They said they'd grant me a visa. Let's see. They had yet to decide for how long and in what capacity. They seem to have a very thin line dividing the people who want to visit for genuine reasons from those who are wrongly motivated," he said. Mokashi hopes to be in the US for 25 days in November to promote the film for the Oscars. "I need to understand the situation. I've never been to the Oscars, have no idea of how the Oscars work. I also need to be back for the film's release in India. Then I return to the US to be with the film till the Oscars," he said. Indo-Asian News Service

Kalki and beau Anurag Kashyap scripting a film together

He thinks she’s a better writer than him

"Dev D" actress Kalki Koechlin says her boyfriend Anurag Kashyap, who has written screenplays and dialogues for memorable films like "Satya" and "Black Friday", thinks she is a better writer than him."Anurag thinks he is a useless writer. He thinks I'm a much better dialogue writer than him. He thinks a lot about the whole plot and not so much about the individual dialogues," Kalki, who made her acting debut with Kashyap's directorial venture "Dev D", told IANS in an interview in New Delhi. "But I don't think I can ever direct anything like him because I don't have that overall vision. I can never think of the whole script, which I think is the director's forte. I can only write for the moment," added the 26-year-old who is co-scripting a film with her beau. "Anurag and I are doing a film together, which is very exciting. But I can't talk anything about it right now except that it's a thriller. "It's his idea. He narrated it to me a year back and asked me if I wanted to write it. I initially denied because I didn't think I could take that responsibility but then I wrote the first draft and he transformed it by adding more pieces and putting them together to give it the form of a story," she explained. Kalki describes Kashyap as an open minded director. "He gives you the space and lets you do things on your own. He always gives a chance to the deserving," she said, on the sidelines of the 11th edition of the annual Osian's Cinefan Film Festival of Asian and Arab Cinema. Talking about her relationship with Kashyap, she said: "Being together with him has worked a lot in our professional life too because we have been constantly challenging our creative sensibilities. Both of us are very intense in the way we think and take things." Before venturing into films with "Dev D", she studied "drama and theatre in university" and "majored in scriptwriting and acting". The film is a contemporary interpretation of Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's classic novel "Devdas" and Kalki played the role of a prostitute Chanda in it. Born to French parents, Kalki apparently took Hindi lessons for "Dev D" and is still working on her dialect and diction. "I still have to work a lot on it (Hindi)," said the actress who is fluent in French and Tamil. Her other projects are Bijoy Nambiar's "Shaitan" and Kaizad Gustad's next. Kalki's wish list also includes penning "a book someday". Indo-Asian News Service

Ranbir, Katrina dazzle on the ramp

Saturday, 31 October, 2009

Everything about Rohit Bal’s show was grand

Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif sashayed down the ramp at the grand finale of the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week (WIFW) for designer Rohit Bal (pictured left), bringing down the curtains on the five-day event in style on Wednesday (Oct 28) night.Dressed in an embroidered white sherwani, Ranbir managed to steal the hearts of many girls in the audience, who couldn't stop gushing about the star's chocolaty looks. Pretty Katrina Kaif, attired in a short white dress, looked like a Barbie doll. Another highlight of the show was a live performance by Orissa's Prince Dance Group that recently won the dance reality show "India's Got Talent". Since Bal is always associated with grandeur, the sets reflected flamboyance and style. The glass ramp had gold lotus flowers underneath. The main show area was draped with golden curtains. Complementing the ambience perfectly were the clothes that talked about the Mughal era when India was the land of maharajas (kings). The collection was appropriately called Yasas, which means grand in Sanskrit. Talking about his collection, Bal said: "The collection is a reflection of incredible talent that we have in India in terms of artisans and craftsmanship. The line is an ode to India's rich heritage." "It is about India, which was once known as the 'Golden Peacock'. Through this line, I am bringing that golden era back to India," he added. The collection had a mix of brocades, velvets in the pre-Mughal and Mughal designs like long and short anarkalis, sherwanis, jodhpuri pants, dresses and long coats. The collection will also be retailed through Wills Lifestyle outlets across India. Indo-Asian News Service

Only brother Farhan has been finalised among cast

Saturday, 31 October, 2009

He was her last resort for her critically-acclaimed directorial debut "Luck By Chance". But for her second film Zoya Akhtar has specially written a part for brother Farhan."It's a road movie set in Spain about three boys and one of the three characters is definitely Farhan. I knew I wanted him. I was very clear that I wanted to work with him again," said Zoya. Daughter of well-known lyricist Javed Akhtar, Zoya informed that her writer filmmaker-actor brother will not only act in the film, but also pen the dialogues for it. "I am writing this film with Reema Kagti. I'm wrapping up the script but as of now it is not locked yet. Then probably I'll sit with Farhan for the dialogues and the casting," she said. Throwing light on the film, she said: "It's a coming of age genre. But it'll be simpler than ‘Luck By Chance' and simpler to understand. A feel-good factor will be there in that sense," said Zoya on the sidelines of the ongoing 11th annual Osian's Cinefan Film Festival of Asian and Arab Cinema in New Delhi. Asked is her movie was in any sense a follow up to the upcoming Abhay Deol-starrer "Road Movie", she said: "The trend's been there. Look at ‘Jab We Met'. It is a road film. It's got that vibe of a road movie. And the promos to the ‘Road Movie' are gorgeous too."Indo-Asian News Service

Costume party: Bold cuff

ALDO ACESSARIES

Don't be afraid to double up on this wrist candy!

Costume party: Bold cuff

Don't be afraid to double up on this wrist candy!

KENNETH JAY LANE

The uninhibited spa: Goa, India

Ayurvedic massage, decadent body oils and exotic aromas.
By Carly Milne

The Spa at The Leela Kempinski hotel, Goa, India, theleela.com/hotel-goa.html.
Situated on 75 acres of land, The Spa at the Leela Kempinski Goa is the perfect seaside getaway. With an open-air lobby, a carved stone embellishment and a majestic statue of Shiva at the end of a seemingly endless hallway, the spa exudes tranquility. On the grounds, there are fruit plantations and a spice farm, and daily yoga and meditation classes promote health and wellness. While the spa offers typical Western services in its eight treatment rooms, it specializes in traditional Indian treatments. After stripping down for my Ayurvedic massage, I don my cloth robe and select a soundtrack of serene chanting. As the massage begins, warm oil is poured onto my head and then slathered all over my naked torso—which is not covered by a towel or sheet. This is not a treatment for the bashful spa-goer. Putting my inhibitions aside, I get into the zone and let go. It’s well worth it—the end result is soft, supple, glowing skin. In your own backyard:
Vida Spa, The Sutton Place Hotel, 845 Burrard St., Vancouver, 604-682-8410, vidawellness.com. For Vida’s 90-minute Ayurvedic Shirodhara treatment ($190), custom-blended oil is heated and poured over your naked body from head to toe (albeit under a sheet), following an all-over body massage. —Adriana Ermter
Find out how to get this spa experience at home.

Fall/Winter 2009-2010 Jewelry Trends

Lanvin, Jason Wu (Susan Tabak of chic in paris/mediasugar.com)
Statement Necklaces

These necklaces flaunt large gemstones and/or over-sized shapes against muted color schemes. Look for eclectic bold pieces that infuse various textures within the design such as ribbons vs. metal and woods vs. gemstones. These necklaces are to be worn with little if any other jewelry. They are a great way to stay on trend while exuding a look that seems like it required a minimal effort.

Fall/Winter 2009-2010 Jewelry Trends

Armani (Susan Tabak of chic in paris)

Statement Necklaces:

These brassy accessories are still making a huge impact in the fashion world. Designers such as Lanvin, Stella McCartney, Giorgio Armani and Chanel are adorning their models with these bold pieces in a variety of gasp-inducing ways.

Winter 2009 Trends: Fur Snoods

Burberry, Christian Dior, Christian Lacroix, Cushnie et Ochs, DKNY

Snoods are this season’s style essential and the chicest way to stay warm this fall. What can add an elegant touch and distinctive look to your fall ensemble more than a luxurious fur snood?
To elevate your cool weather chic, loop it around your neck with sweater dresses, slouchy knits, or wear it on your head with lots of layering.

Winter 2009 Trends: Fur Snoods

Matthew Williamson, Michael Kors, Nicole Miller, Peter Som, Rachel Comey

Snoods are this season’s style essential and the chicest way to stay warm this fall. What can add an elegant touch and distinctive look to your fall ensemble more than a luxurious fur snood?
To elevate your cool weather chic, loop it around your neck with sweater dresses, slouchy knits, or wear it on your head with lots of layering.

Winter 2009 Trends: Fur Snoods

Matthew Williamson, Michael Kors, Nicole Miller, Peter Som, Rachel Comey

Snoods are this season’s style essential and the chicest way to stay warm this fall. What can add an elegant touch and distinctive look to your fall ensemble more than a luxurious fur snood?
To elevate your cool weather chic, loop it around your neck with sweater dresses, slouchy knits, or wear it on your head with lots of layering.

Winter 2009 Trends: Fur Snoods

Snoods are this season’s style essential and the chicest way to stay warm this fall. What can add an elegant touch and distinctive look to your fall ensemble more than a luxurious fur snood?
To elevate your cool weather chic, loop it around your neck with sweater dresses, slouchy knits, or wear it on your head with lots of layering.

Donna Karan, Douglas Hannant, Giles, Iceberg, Isaac Mizrahi

Winter Most Wanted

Fashion Loves

Karl Lagerfeld’s new scents, above-average lash enhancers, and a body cleanser based on a centuries-old idea.

Clinique Comfort on Call Allergy Tested Relief Cream ($40, at department stores). This creamy balm calls on the antihistamine properties of Japan’s jabara citrus fruit to soothe hyper-sensitive skin susceptible to inflammation from winter chills.

Photography by Tracy Shumate

CULTURE

Day 212:30 p.m. Champagne. Eggs Benedict. More oysters. Live jazz. What better way to start the day? At Beehive, a former boiler room turned casual resto that has held on to its industrial feel, it’s all about live music, art and food. (541 Tremont St., 617-423-0069, beehiveboston.com)

By Shirine Saad

First published in FASHION Magazine November 2009

48 hours: Bodacious Boston

The anti-preppy guide to the bluest of blue-blood meccas.

8 p.m. You rarely hear sounds as perfect as those at Symphony Hall—its design was fine-tuned by a Harvard physics professor. Enjoy a superlative classical concert among the ravishing neo-classical architecture. (pictured, 301 Massachusetts Ave., 617-266-7575, bso.org)

9 p.m. Commission a bespoke cocktail at Drink, a new Barbara Lynch lounge in the über-cool Fort Point area. The “mixers” ask you to choose a liquor, then whip up a unique concoction from scratch. Down yours while nibbling on foie gras lollies, quail brochettes and quince confit. (348 Congress St., 617-695-1806, drinkfortpoint.com)

Photography by James Levine

By Shirine Saad

First published in FASHION Magazine November 2009

48 hours: Bodacious Boston

The anti-preppy guide to the bluest of blue-blood meccas.

2 p.m. Finally, time for a decadent seafood lunch! Stroll the hip South End and stop by Barbara Lynch’s B&G Oysters, where you can choose from 12 types of the molluscs from the raw bar. Chase your selection with a delicious lobster roll, a favourite of local foodies. (pictured, 550 Tremont St., 617-423-0550, bandgoysters.com)

4 p.m. Maybe you won’t get to see every one of the 450,000 works at the Museum of Fine Arts, but make sure you spend some time in the comprehensive contemporary-art section, browsing works by Mona Hatoum, Chuck Close, Bridget Riley and Takashi Murakami. (465 Huntington Ave., 617-267-9300, mfa.org)

By Shirine Saad

First published in FASHION Magazine November 2009

48 hours: Bodacious Boston

The anti-preppy guide to the bluest of blue-blood meccas.

Boston is no longer all puritanism and Ivy League, though the legendary seafood platters still abound. On your next trip to this East Coast metropolis, check out avant-garde art, sip made-to-measure cocktails in underground bars and shop cool in concept stores.Day 110 a.m. How many prisons do you know that have Frette sheets? Check in and accept the welcome champagne coupe at The Liberty Hotel, the city’s liveliest hot spot. Formerly the Charles Street Jail, the hotel has revamped its interior with a chic, urban touch. With four restos and bars, including star chef Lydia Shire’s Scampo restaurant, and a stunning view of the Charles River, your weekend is sure to be romantic and cool. (215 Charles St., 617-224-4000, libertyhotel.com)

11 a.m. Isabella Stewart Gardner built her palazzo-style museum to house her collection of opulent Chinese antiques, Italian Renaissance-master paintings and John Singer Sargent portraits. Be sure to take a break from the galleries to admire the museum’s lavish garden. (pictured, 280 The Fenway, 617-566-1401, gardnermuseum.org)

By Shirine Saad

First published in FASHION Magazine November 2009

Spa DIY: The thermal spa experience

Light Lothantique Les Vacances au Thoron candles ($32 each, lothantique.ca) in “Forest,” “Wood” and “Earth” to experience a lush, calming aroma.

By Adriana Ermter

Photography by Carlo Mendoza

First published in FASHION Magazine November 2009

Spa DIY: The thermal spa experience

Shower with Ahava Mineral Botanic Micro-Peeling Cream Wash in “Water Lily & Guarana” or Mineral Botanic Velvet Cream Wash ($23 each, both at select Bay stores) in “Hibiscus & Fig.” Both combine Dead Sea minerals and botanical extracts to soothe, tone and hydrate skin.

By Adriana Ermter

Photography by Carlo Mendoza

First published in FASHION Magazine November 2009

Spa DIY: The thermal spa experience

A capful of Biotherm Relaxing Milk Bath ($35, at drugstores) turns your bathtub into a milky, skin-softening retreat.

By Adriana Ermter

Photography by Carlo Mendoza

First published in FASHION Magazine November 2009

CASADEI

Update your outerwear with a chunky, oversized knit.

Photography by Carlo Mendoza

First published in FASHION Magazine November 2009

H&M

Update your outerwear with a chunky, oversized knit.

Photography by Carlo Mendoza

First published in FASHION Magazine November 2009

FILIPPA K

Update your outerwear with a chunky, oversized knit.

Photography by Carlo Mendoza

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN

A classic collegiate piece looks fresh when paired with bold extras.

Photography by Carlo Mendoza

Sweater: Cardigan

A classic collegiate piece looks fresh when paired with bold extras.

SONIA BY SONIA RYKIEL at The Bay .

EXOTIC SNAKESKIN BAGS 2009

Exotic Snakeskin Bags 2010
Prada is joining the Snakeskin trend which started at 2009 and will continue through 2010.
Snake skin is very different from crocodile, aligator skin or other exotic leather. It is much softer so it is perfect for handbag with sophisticated design. More of the snake skin are skin from Sea snakes which are not endangered species. Each Sea snake has its unique pattern of the skin which is delicate, beautiful and flexible.
Prada’s 2009 Spring / Summer oversize snakeskin bag – Price: $1200
fashionmagazine-best.com
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BAGS, FASHION TRENDS 2010 — Tags: 2010 fashion, bags 2010, crocodile skin, exotic bags, handbags, Prada, snakeskin bags, Winter 2010 —

WINTER GOLVES 2010

fashionmagazine-best.com

IN BENIN

Established on September 27, 1988, the Chinese Cultural Center in the Republic of Benin is located at the Avenue Jean-Paul II in Cotonou City, with a floor space of 4,062 square meters. The building impresses people with rich traditional Chinese architectural styles. The center comprises an open air theatre, a grand multi-functional hall, various sized classrooms, a library for adult readers and a library for children.Under the support and joint efforts of the Chinese Ministry of Culture and the Benin Government, the Chinese Cultural Center was officially set up in Benin on September 27, 1988. It was the first cultural center the Chinese government instituted in the African Continent. The cultural center is expected to serve as a platform promoting all-round cultural exchanges, following a ribbon cut at the opening ceremony under high concerns of all parties.The center furnishes a Chinese language course, a martial art course and a shadowboxing course. In addition, it frequently sponsors all kinds of cultural activities, such as book and artwork exhibitions, drama performances, concerts, and ceremonies commemorating students to complete courses. From time to time, it shows movies, DVDs and all sorts of documentaries on China. The center also offers rooms for Benin government organs and mass organizations to hold cultural and artistic education activities.When requested, the center will assist organizing exhibitions on China in other parts of Benin. On all accounts, the center assumes the mission of promoting Chinese culture and facilitating the prosperity of the African culture, particularly full flourish of Benin culture.The following is the channels to come into contact with the Chinese Cultural Center in the Republic of Benin.Tel: 00229-21313174/97161030Fax: 00229-21314833E-mail: ccccoo@culturalink.gov.cnRelated links:China cultural network:www.culturalink.gov.cn;http://www.chinaculture.org/

IN SEOUL

The first Chinese Culture Center in Asia was inaugurated in Seoul in December 2004, which provides South Koreans with Chinese language teaching service and information about China and Chinese culture.The Chinese Culture Center in Seoul, the sixth of its kind in the world set by the Chinese government, introduces China to South Koreans through holding exhibitions, seminars and other activities. Chinese Vice Cultural Minister Meng Xiaosi who inaugurated the Seoul Chinese Culture Center together with South Korean National Assembly Vice Speaker Park Hee-tae, Culture and Tourism Minister Chung Dong-chae and other Chinese and South Korean officials.The setting up of Chinese Culture Center in Seoul was an important outcome of cultural exchanges and cooperation between China and South Korea. It becomes a stage, which curtains never fall, for people, especially youth, of both countries to contact and know more about each other, and it will be a bridge for bilateral relations and the friendship between South Korean and Chinese people.More and more South Koreans are eager to study Chinese and learn more about China. It is not only because that Chinese and South Korean cultures are very close, for the long history of bilateral cultural exchanges and geographic closeness, but the full-scale development of bilateral relations in recent years.China became South Korea's top investment and travel destination, as well as the biggest trade partner this year. Chinese language and culture studies are also getting popular in South Korea. It is called "a blow of Chinese Wind" in South Korea, in parallel with the Chinese saying "the flow of South Korean Stream" which shows the influence of South Korean culture in China.The setting up of Chinese Culture Center in Seoul meets the needs of many South Koreans to study Chinese and learn Chinese culture. It is also helpful for Chinese culture to be introduced to other countries in the world, including South Korea.The six-floor Chinese Culture Center building, located near the building of South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, has a library, several classrooms and rooms for exhibitions and function activities. This Center is known for teaching high-quality Chinese as well as Chinese music, Tai-chi martial arts, calligraphy, cooking, tea manners and acupuncture.China has set up two Chinese Culture Centers in Mauritius and Benin in 1980s and another three in France, Egypt and Malta during the past three years. Around 100,000 people attended activities held by Chinese Culture Centers in these five countries in 2004, according to a press release from Chinese Culture Ministry.Telephone: 02-733-8307~9

HAIRS SAVING TRICKS

Color-Saving TricksWhether you dye your hair at home (a wallet-friendly strategy right off the bat) or go to the salon, there are ways to keep color costs under control.Pick a shade close to your own You don’t have to be Vidal Sassoon to realize that dyeing dark-brown hair platinum blonde is a high-maintenance, high-cost endeavor. For the most-flattering and longest-lasting results, stay within two shades of your natural color, suggests New York City colorist Kelly Van Gogh. And experts recommend thinking twice before going red or auburn—those shades are notoriously quick to fade.Choose the right dye formulaSemipermanent dye typically fades gradually over four to six weeks, so it won’t leave you with telltale roots if you’re short on cash and unable to get a touch up. Highlights are also a low-maintenance option. “Because you only color-select strands, it’s not as obvious when they grow out. There’s less upkeep, too,” Van Gogh says.Dare to DIYIf you love salon color, but don’t want to blow quite so much dough on it, why not occasionally do your own? If your color-ist typically gives you a single-process color, alternate with an at-home kit that’s meant to be applied only on new growth (not your whole head). We like Clairol Nice ’n Easy Root Touch-Up ($6.99). Highlights are trickier, for sure, but you can pull them off at home: For the best results, use a home highlighting kit, and just add several streaks along your hairline and part.Stretch it out with shampooShampoos for color-treated hair aren’t just a gimmick; experts agree that they can help you eke out an extra week or two between dye jobs. “They help seal the hair’s cuticle, preventing dye molecules from leaching out,” Van Gogh explains. Many also contain UV filters that protect your shade from fading due to sun exposure. Try Nature’s Gate Organics Color Protecting Shampoo ($7.99) or Nexxus Dualiste Shampoo Color Protection + Intense Hydration Shampoo ($11.99).Revitalize with a glazeIf your color’s starting to fade, use an at-home glaze like John Frieda Luminous Color Glaze ($9.99), Dorram suggests. Just don’t use it more than twice a week. “There are ingredients in glazes that can build up on your hair and dull the color if you use them too often,” she says

VANEEZA AHMED

She’s got the most refreshing face in the business and one of the most amiable dispositions. In the field of modeling ruled by catty tactics.... she is the cattiest of them all. She’s ambitious - and she has no qualms about admitting it. She travels back and forth, shuttling between her hometown Lahore and the city that promises fulfillment of dreams - Karachi. And by god she knows that this exercise is worth her while. Vaneeza Ahmed, the Lahori supermodel that gave the Karachi beaus a hard time - she’s got what it takes.... all that it takes, to get to where she is today. From a fun indulgence at Kinnaird College as a student she launched herself in a career, she never thought to be hers. So, from modeling for Neelofer Shahid’s couture she went on to a photo shoot with the best in the business - Ather Shehzad the duo responsible for introducing some of the finest models today..... and the discovery of Vaneeza aka Vinny also falls to their credit. That’s how the journey started for this charming splendor and along the way added accolades to list of merits. She left no stone unturned. From modeling to acting she did it all- played the leading lady in Jamal Shah’s controversial saga, graced the cover pages of the countries top publications off and on, went as far as Mauritius to prove her love for acting and of course sashayed down the catwalk with the grace of a swan- how many times? She has lost all count. But one thing worth remembering is her role as ‘Dina’- in the movie Jinnah. She played the Quaid’s daughter and they say… she played it well. She's worked hard to get where she is today. She's come a long way in a very short time, and the way she's going, she'll go a long long way.

BONNNY,TAYLA,SHOOTERR

WINNIPEG:WITH LOVE FROM WILFRED

I fall in love with Wilfred, over and over again. The way he hangs perfectly off my body. The way he knows how to please me next and make me feel sexy in every way. I’m talking, of course, about Aritzia’s exclusive line, Wilfred.
Before we’ve even settled into summer, fall fashion is upon us and on a recent shopping extravaganza I found myself buying warm and cozy instead of soft and breezy. That’s when I fell hard and fast for Wilfred’s satin crepe boyfriend blazer. Its soft lines, casual feel and satin finished lapels make for the most understated, sophisticated look. The standard blazer can sometimes feel rigid, but offers the same effect, style-wise, but feels comfortable and freeing. That, to me, spells L-O-V-E.
Available at Aritiza, Polo Park Shopping Centre, 1485 Portage Ave., 204-772-0403, aritizia.com

Joe Fresh Style

Using a picture from Lanvin Fall 2009 as a reference (!), Maleterre created natural, fresh skin. Lids were lightly swept with Wear Infinité Eye Shadow in “Seashell” and a coat of Bare Naturale Mascara. Using his fingers, Maleterre dabbed Colour Riche Lipstick in “British Red”—meant to match the bit of red used in the collection—onto lips to create a stain and keep it from being too bright and glam. Meanwhile, Del Monaco created “very simple, clean hair” first spritzing manes with Elnett Hairspray (finally coming to Canada this fall) and then smoothing them back with a paddle brush into a high, twisted knot. The visible ends were flat-ironed to make them look “healthy” and Studio Line Mineral FX Modeling Gel-Cream was used to slightly rough up the crown area “so that it doesn’t look too tight.”

Winter 2009-10 Beauty Trends

Glam Grunge:

This is ‘90s grunge gone glamorous; pure rock ‘n’ roll, but sexy rather than sullied – and much more attitude driven. Think black, greasy, and more smudgy than smoky, for a finish that’s young, nasty and stinking of rock chick excess. “It’s Chrissie Hynde with too much eyeliner,” explains Gordon Espinet, who nailed this trend for both DSquared² and Vivienne Westwood Red Label, “LA girls walk of shame make-up. It’s young Hollywood the morning after the night before. Her make-up is melted, yet…gorgeous.”As seen at: DSquared²