Friday, December 2, 2016

The Bharatiya 8:34 PM

RUPAREL COLLEGE Students impress judges with their fiery performances

Students impress judges with their fiery performances

Day 3 of the Oppo Bombay Times Fresh Face 2016 saw power-packed acts by youngsters at DG Ruparel College and SIES College of Arts, Science, and Commerce, Sion
DG RUPAREL COLLEGE

The amphitheatre at DG Ruparel College was jam packed as students thronged in to support their classmates, who were participating. Celeb judge Ruhi Singh (Miss Universal Peace and Humanity 2014), thoroughly analysed their talents and gave feedback after each performance.

Leaving no stone unturned, students ensured that they were prepared enough for the same. So, armed with their guitars, dholaks and minus tracks, they performed on Hotel California, Sawaar Loon, Iktara, Louis Armstrong's La Vie En Rose and This Is What You Came For, among others.

The high point was seeing the otherwise shy contestants open up during their performances.Finalist Shefali Gupta's classical dancing to angrezi beats and a few aspiring rappers delivering foottapping performances engaged the audience. After answering ques tions on death penalty , gender issues and other current affairs, Tanay Patvardhan's act on Dharamvir Bharti's Andha Yug, and Rutuja Kulkarni's melodious vocals helped them win the title.

SIES, SION

There was never a classroom that was this full of enthu cutlets! And it didn't matter if the students were all from different classes and facul ties. Cheering for every performer, the line-up of acts put up by partici pants here, was not only interesting but also high on ener gy. What added to their enthu siasm was the presence of Mr World 2016, Rohit Khandelwal, who shared anecdotes from his own journey and his early days as a model.

Shaking a leg to hardcore Bollywood numbers, students doing the Ganpati dance... there was plenty to watch out for. Sainethra Hariharan's rap in Korean and English and Neha Sheikh's belly dance on Jhingat were among a few highlights. An athlete at heart, first runner-up Tirupati JK's act as a tantric who spots a ghost was spine-chilling. Blessed with the gift of the gab, second-year mass media student Sapna Iyer was announced the first runner-up. However, it was Pratik Chordia's Shahid Kapoor-like moves on Gandi Baat and Insha Malik's rendition of Hamari Adhuri Kahani's song, Hasi, which helped them seize the title.

The Bharatiya 8:31 PM

Jazz music has been an integral part of the Hindi movie

`JAZZ'ING UP BOLLYWOOD

Jazz music has been an integral part of the Hindi movie indus try since the early 1950s, an era that is also referred to as the Golden Age of film music. The unmistakable strains of the woodwind instruments -trombone, trumpet, saxophone and clarinet along with the piano, guitar and drums -would bring the genre alive with beautiful, seductive and swinging melodies.

Master composers like ShankarJaikishan, Madan Mohan, OP Nayyar, SD Burman and Salil Chaudhury worked in tandem with Goan music arrangers of the time, including Anthony Gonsalves, Frank Fernand, Chic Chocolate and Sebastian D'Souza, to create some of the most unforgettable jazz-influenced songs in the history of Hindi cinema.

FORAY INTO FILMS

Jazz was the pop music of its time.Back in 1920 upto the '60s, it featured heavily in the West.Composer Dhruv Ghanekar says, “Post Independence, there were many Anglo Indian musicians who studied jazz harmony .“ As film music grew and become mainstream in the '50s, a lot of these musicians who'd play at jazz clubs and hotels, began to look at the industry to supplement their income. Dhruv adds, “Many composers hired them to create orchestrations and arrangements for their melodies. Through the '60s and '70s, RD Burman, who was heavily influenced by Latin and jazz harmonies, worked with famous arrangers like Kersi Lord and Louis Banks.“

BACK IN THE DAYS

One of the finest genres to play around with, jazz lent itself beautifully to Indian music. Gore Gore O Banke Chhore (Samadhi 1950), Shola Jo Bhadke (Albela, 1951), Babuji Dheere Chalna (Aar-Paar , 1954), Mera Naam Chin Chin Chu (Howrah Bridge, 1958), Ek Ladki Bheegi Bhaagi Si (Chalti ka Naam Gaadi, 1958) and Dil Deke Dekho (1959), are some examples.

Singer Shibani Kashyap says, “RD had a lot of jazz flavour in his music. In his song Jane Jaan Dhoondta Phir (Jawani Diwani, 1971) bass guitar and harmony was used for the first time in Bollywood.“

Songs with jazz influence have always been the ones that made you go `Aha!' -with their unexpected harmonies and challenging rhythms. The improvised solos of a saxophone would tug at your heart and that was what made Bollywood jazz so popular.

IT IS AN ACQUIRED TASTE

Though many music composers and singers love jazz, most feel that it is an acquired taste. Singer and music producer Clinton Cerejo says, “I would only use jazz if a film demanded it by design. It's a fine balance between doing something really musical and alienating your listener. I honestly don't think Bollywood songs can truly be called jazz songs. Jazz flavour, there are many . But a jazz song goes beyond an idiom and a genre. It extends to the life blood of the people that truly make that music. In fact, most true jazz musicians are often reluctant to call themselves that because it's not a title one can wear loosely .“ There are definite markers to a stereotypical traditional jazz arrangement like the use of a shuffle or swing beat, possibly an acoustic stand-up bass, a big band or horn section, etc.

JAZZ IN BOLLYWOOD NOW

“These days, Bollywood music has many styles.Though not many songs are actually jazz, there are some that have these elements,“ states songwritercomposer Mikey McCleary . The use of sax and trumpet often give a jazzy feel to Bollywood songs and so do walking base lines. Mikey adds, “I've noticed that there is more experimentation with harmony and using jazz chords in film songs.One of the characteristics of jazz is a swing feel in the rhythm. Jazz will continue to influence Bollywood music, but it may not always be a traditional jazz sound.“

Last year, composer Amit Trivedi came up with an entire album of songs with a heavy jazz influence -Bombay Velvet. Also, in the last two decades, there have been many Bollywood movies that have had a lot of songs with prominent jazz music.Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy's Sheher Mera (One By Two, 2011) with lyrics by Amitabh Bhattacharya is a fab, jazzy number. The song, sung by Thomson Andrews, has drums by Gino Banks and saxophone by Ryan Sadri.Listening to this one makes you yearn for more jazz in movies.

Peppy numbers like Girls Like To Swing (Dil Dhadakne Do, 2015) and Aunty Ji (Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu, 2012) will remain popular. Slow tracks like Ye Tumhari Meri Baatein (Rock On!!, 2008), Aise Na Dekho (Raanjhanaa, 2013) and the title track of Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na (2008) are fine examples of jazz.

WON'T EVER GO OUT OF STYLE

Jazz is essentially improvised music and it won't go out of fashion easily. Dhruv says, “Audiences always want to be dazzled by virtuosity . I think music evolves and people's tastes change every decade or so, but the jazz influence is here to stay.“

The Bharatiya 8:22 PM

THE HIJAB HITS THE SPOTLIGHT

The burkini and the hijab, typically worn by Muslim women, are at the epicentre of public attention. While the former creat ed a viral storm after a few French beach towns banned it, the latter has just shot into media glare.

Canada has got its first hijab-clad news anchor; a Muslim woman entered the semi-finals of the Miss Minnesota USA pageant wearing one; and a designer sent models on the ramp wearing a hijab at the New York Fashion Week to a huge applause. The recent instances are slowly making people sit up and take notice of this attire. Here's more on how it's becoming mainstream...

WHERE IT REALLY KICKED OFF

The trend goes back to this year's Rio Olympics when Egyptian Doaa El-Ghobashy became the first beach volleyball player to wear a hijab. Pictures of her facing a swimsuit-clad German player went viral. It was hailed as how volleyball should not be sexualised, but give room to players to wear what they want. “I have worn the hijab for 10 years. It doesn't keep me away from the things I love to do, and beach volleyball is one of them,“ Doaa said.

SHE JUST COMPETED IN A BEAUTY PAGEANT IN A HIJAB

Halima Aden, 19, made headlines two days ago, when she became the first contestant to participate in Miss Minnesota USA pageant in a hijab and burkini. The Somali-American teenager made it to the semi-finals wearing a hijab. She also wore the full-body burkini dur ing the swimsuit competition, standing out in contrast to 44 other contestants. A website also quoted her as saying, “An extra layer of clothing does not define your beauty , because beauty is within.“

CANADA MADE WAY FOR IT

A Toronto television journalist, Ginella Massa, is believed to be Canada's first anchor to don a hijab on air. The 29-year-old ended her broadcast last week with this tweet: “That's a wrap! Tonight wasn't just important for me. I don't think a woman in hijab has ever anchored a newscast in Canada.“

She later added that her phone was ringing non-stop. “ As much as I knew it was important, I didn't expect the reaction that I received. My phone hasn't stopped buzzing for the last week,“ Massa said.

IT'S HUGE ON THE RAMP

This October, Indonesian designer Anniesa Hasibuan, defied the norm when she showcased all the models in hijabs for her collection at the New York Fashion Week, winning praise from critics for her glittering gowns, lacy trains and flowing tunics. Hasibuan was delighted and said it was “totally unexpected“. It was the first time that the event saw this happen.

THIS HIJABI WEIGHTLIFTER IS EYEING THE OLYMPICS

Dubai girl Amna Al Haddad, a hijabi weightlifter, smashed stereotypes and inspired women around her when she created secured an Olympic berth for the UAE in weightlifting. She is the only Muslim to do so in a headscarf.

AUSTRALIAN BALLERINA WEARS ONE

Australian schoolgirl, Stephanie Kurlow wants to be the first hijabi ballerina in the world and loves to pirouette in her headscarf. For someone who loves to dance, she wears a headscarf over her tutu and plans to open a dancing school for girls.

MAKE-UP BRAND FEATURES FIRST MODEL IN HIJAB

This November, a well-known international make-up brand launched a campaign featuring a woman in a hijab for the first time. In a statement, the woman, Nura Afia, said she never thought she would see Muslim women represented on this scale after “growing up and being insecure about wearing the hijab“.

IT GETS ITS OWN EMOJI, TOO

A 15-year-old Saudi girl who lives in Germany -Rayouf Alhumedhi -proposed the idea of a series of `headscarf emoji'. She realised in a social media chat with her friends that there was no emoji to represent her, a headscarf-wearing woman. She then sent the proposal to an organisation that develops new emojis, saying, “In this day and age, representation is extremely important.“

The emoji was approved.

The Bharatiya 8:15 PM

HAZEL KEECH IS NOW GURBASANT KAUR Actress Hazel Keech, who married cricketer Yuvraj Singh

Actress Hazel Keech, who married cricketer Yuvraj Singh on Wednesday , was rechristened Gurbasant Kaur according to Sikh tradition.Hazel, who is British-Mauritian by origin, was given the new name in accordance with the Indian tradition of marriage. Her new name was announced at the Anand Karaj ceremony at the gurdwara near Fatehgarh Sahib where the couple got married.

Running nearly four hours behind schedule, the grand wedding of Yuvraj and Hazel near Chandigarh finally concluded late on Wednesday evening. The couple was to reach the gurdwara in Fatehgarh Sahib at 12 noon, but instead landed there at nearly 4 pm.Resplendent in true Sikh avatar with a full grown beard, maroon turban and sherwani, Yuvraj looked every bit the dapper sardar groom. His bride, actress Hazel matched his charisma dressed in a deep maroon lehenga.

Before leaving for Fatehgarh Sahib, a haldi ceremony was held for Yuvraj with close buddy, actor Angad Bedi, in a Chandigarh hotel. The Anand Karaj was a sober affair attended by close family members from both sides. The only non-family attending the wedding were Angad and Gaurav Kapur, both sporting turbans for the gurdwara ceremony .

The Anand Karaj was followed by a post-wedding party at the newly constructed house of Yuvraj in Panchkula.The Indian cricket team was expected to attend this evening party.

Tuesday, October 25, 2016

The Bharatiya 7:23 PM

The best part about this medium is that you don't have to please everyone: Ekta Kapoor

The best part about this medium is that you don't have to please everyone: Ekta Kapoor

Producer Ekta Kapoor, who now ventures into the digital space with ALT Balaji that will create original content, talks about her future plans. Excerpts...
After conquering TV and making a strong mark in films, what is the next big move for Balaji?

Both TV and films explore different sides of our personality . While TV is intended towards family , films are for communal viewing. At home, we watch things that are acceptable to the entire family . When you're with friends, you want something that you can enjoy together. But individual viewing is a bit subjective as it deals with your personal taste.The digital platform will be more selfexploratory , individualistic and a path-breaking medium to explore.

What prompted you to foray into the digital space?

I always think a person or a company's resilience is tested when they are willing to start once again. It's like a reboot for us. I think setting a start-up within the parent company is great. More than being an innovative and interesting idea, it gives us a chance to explore creative expression that neither TV nor film gives. For films, you need to have spending power to buy a ticket every week. TV is `one size fits all', it's for the masses, and what appeals to them may not appeal to you. Because of this, a lot of individuals were getting left off.

When we made Love Sex Aur Dhokha and The Dirty Picture, a whole new set of viewers were explored and an alternate set of audience opened up. The digital platform will explore different kind of content -one which has shorter formats, way more clutter breaking stories and an interesting world to explore.

Do you think you will be able to recreate the magic of television on this platform as well?

I don't know. In fact, you should never know these things. All you know is that a bunch of young creatives and new stories will find home with at least some people. The best part about this medium is that you don't have to please everyone, nor do you have to have any big names to get people into the theatre.You just have to have enough of drama and storytelling capabilities to get your kind of viewer end.

Ekta Kapoor

So can we call ALT Balaji a 2.0 version of Balaji?

I'm hoping that this start-up has its individual appeal. To be an updated version of Balaji, it can follow the structure of the parent brand but creatively , it will stand for everything Balaji Telefilms doesn't stand for. It's shorter and has stories of different worlds, something that the television side of us doesn't explore. Having said that, Balaji Telefilms will continue to do what it does best.

Are you going to be the home grown Netflix of India?

We are pleased with how consumers in India are discovering the digital space. Initially, Netflix was an aggregated model that went on to create original content.

However, our model is different.

Everything that we are creating is original and exclusive to our platform. Our strength has always been telling original stories and that will be our biggest USP with ALT Balaji as well.

What will the format be and when are you planning to launch this?

The launch will be early next year.

It's not the content that television has ever created. Some of them will have the urban sensibilities and the stickiness of television but most of the stories otherwise are going to be something that people won't expect from us. In fact, I think we will land up shocking quite a few.

What genres will be explored?

Storytelling should never be compartmentalised into genres.

Most of them are genre breaking but the worlds are interesting.

There are worlds we haven't explored on television or in film stories that we cannot tell in films because of financial viability or on TV because they could hurt sensibilities.

How does 2017 look for Balaji?

A new step, a new beginning. Like someone once said -starting a new business is like catching a running train. You never know if you'll get in, but if you stand there, you'll miss the train. For me, 2017 is a year of change, the year of `ALT'. Change may be good or bad but one thing for sure is that it's constant.

Have you signed on any big names?

Watch this space for more. We definitely can call them interesting names (smiles).

Monday, October 24, 2016

The Bharatiya 12:53 PM

Bollywood divas' beauty routine: Simple yet effective

Bollywood divas' beauty routine: Simple yet effective

Do you wish for a glowing skin, soft shiny hair and a fit body? Take a peek into the beauty regimes of Bollywood divas like Deepika Padukone and Nargis Fakhri. They're not skin deep but keep them healthy and beautiful.

Each one of them follows a different regimen, but one thing is common in their must do list - water intake and use of moisturiser.

Here are, as collated by, the health and beauty programmes that Deepika Padukone, Nargis Fakhri, Isha Koppikkar and Evelyn Sharma follow religiously:

Deepika Padukone

My daily skincare regime includes moisturiser with SPF (sun protection factor) during the day. At night, I remove whatever little makeup I wear and then apply hydrating cream.

Also, plenty of water, balanced meals, regular workouts and adequate sleep figure on my must have list.

Since my work involves a lot of travelling and exposure to extreme climatic conditions, it ends up taking a toll on my hair. I get tender coconut hair oil massages at least once a week. It helps me protect my hair from any form of damage.
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Nargis Fakhri

I need a beauty regime that guarantees results. A 20-minute deep conditioning treatment with hot coconut-based hair oil for my hair really works for me as it locks in the moisture and keeps my hair soft and smooth.

I make sure that I drink two litres of water a day to flush out toxins. I also have coconut water daily and make sure I eat something every two hours. My snacking is limited to health foods like walnuts, almonds and dryfruits. At night, I try to eat a light meal, but sometimes I don't succeed. I absolutely love desserts and, yes, I cheat very often. I think the key is not to be hard on yourself, but use moderation. One should eat everything in required quantity. You must know what suits your body the best.

Isha Koppikar

I am very particular about cleansing, toning and moisturising my skin. I am very particular about moisturising my body with products containing natural ingredients. I also love products with mint as they are so cooling and refreshing.

When your hair is exposed to summer heat, it is imperative to keep your hair free from dirt and stickiness.

My diet includes more liquids, especially in summer. A lot of fruits and vegetables are an integral part of my diet. I cut down on non-vegetarian food in summer. Lemon and mint juice refreshes and helps me beat the summer heat. Curd and buttermilk are my favourite, especially during summer. For breakfast, egg whites and multigrain toast is the best. For lunch, jawar ki roti and sabzi and for dinner, fish and salad are my safest bet. In between meals, if hungry, I have fruits or curd or buttermilk.

Evelyn Sharma

Moisturising should be a basic bodycare regime to replenish moisture loss due to harsh weather conditions. Coconut-based moisturisers work wonders for the skin as they lock in moisture from escaping the skin's surface. The result is naturally soft skin throughout the day.

Make sure that your diet includes fibre as it has necessary vitamins and minerals. Balance your diet with rich portions of fruits, vegetables, nuts and liquids. It is important to keep yourself hydrated by drinking lots of water. I have coconut water through the day and it is a vital aspect of my diet.

Wednesday, October 5, 2016

The Bharatiya 4:14 PM

Aarti Chabria Biography

Birthday: November 21
Place of Birth: Mumbai
Sun sign: Scorpio
Hometown: Mumbai
School/college: Queen Mary School, Mumbai and HR College of Commerce and Economics, Mumbai
High point of your life: Winning the title of Miss India Worldwide 2000, working in films Awara Pagal Deewana (2002), Okariki Okaru (2003) and Shootout at Lokhandwala (2007). Winning TV reality show Khatron Ke Khiladi
Low point of your life: When my debut film Tumse Achcha Kaun Hai (2002) bombed
Currently I am: After having done Punjabi film Viyah 70 Km, I’m waiting for my next two Punjabi films and a Hindi film to go on the floors.
A destination you’d like to be lost in: Axams in Austria
Your memories of Punjab: Vacations spent at my grandparents’ place in Phagwara
One lie you often get away with: “I’m going to call you back in five minutes.” (It’s not that I lie, but I forget).
Your favourite Punjabi food: Sarson da saag and makki di roti with nimbu da achaar
Your favourite Punjabi slang: ‘Jenki Shenki’, which means ‘super duper’ in reply to how I am doing.
Your strategy in a crisis: To be calm and to think before I act.
A workout you swear by: Cardio and dance
A gadget you can’t do without: My iPhone
What are the three things you would do if you could?: Help tackle illiteracy, eradicate poverty and have better roads in the country. On a personal note, I would love to play the guitar,
speak Spanish and have my own travel show.
A song that describes your life: That would be written by me
The last line of your autobiography would read: “And that’s how I achieved every dream, never giving up when life knocked me down and facing life with zest in both good times and bad.”
You have five minutes to pack, what all will you take?: My MacBook Pro, pyjamas, favourite green tea sachets, sunglasses, swimsuit and my perfume — Hugo Boss Deep Red.
Which colours dominate your wardrobe?: Yellow, white and pink
Three people you’d like to invite for dinner: Juhi Chawla, Rahul Gandhi and Shania Twain
If you could jet set to anywhere in the world, where would it be?: Gold Coast, Australia
Who is your 3 am friend?: My brother Abhishek
What will we find on your bedside table?: Water bottle, iPhone and a copy of Hanuman Chalisa
You de-stress with: Music, a good massage, and — most importantly — shopping!
One thing you want to change about yourself: I would like to be less frank
The craziest rumour you have heard about yourself: That I got married
One piece of advice you wish someone had given you 10 years ago: Less make-up is better
Three people on your speed dial: My mom, dad and brother
Your biggest indulgence: Skincare products, clothes, shoes, accessories, bags, lingerie and perfumes.
One thing that is definitely on your bucket list: To own a yacht
A film that you have seen more than five times: Qayamat se Qayamat Tak
The most overrated film: Chennai Express
The most paisa-vasool film: Viyah 70 Km
A movie evoking fond memories: Lion King, especially when I watch it with my dad

The Bharatiya 4:12 PM

Neeru Bajwa Biography

Neeru Bajwa

Your favourite Punjabi slang Avein…
Are things better for newcomers now than they were 10 years ago? There’s no doubt that there are more opportunities now, as a lot more Punjabi films are being made. Nevertheless, female actors continue to be used as decoration pieces.
What did you have to change about yourself to make a place for yourself in Bollywood? As an actor, I did change in order to play the roles that I got, which I wasn’t too happy about. But, I don’t want to do that now.
Is your current phase a permanent backseat from Bollywood or just a sabbatical? Bollywood isn’t offering any great roles, while in Punjab, there is a huge market. I don’t want to leave that for the not-so appealing stuff.
When did you realise you were good looking? When I started out, I mostly got to hear that I am not that good looking. I think I started looking good when I did the film, Heer Ranjha. Which part of your body would you insure? My eyes.
What’s your fitness regime? I work out almost every day, eat moderately, don’t keep grudges and stay happy.
One food craving you wish you could indulge in Any dish that has mutton in it.
One thing that nobody knows about you That I get really, really nervous before going on stage.

Your strategy in a crisis To pray
A Punjabi song you can’t stop humming Gurdas Maan’s Ik Tu Hove, Ik Main Hovan.
The last line of your autobiography would read... ‘I left with a smile on my face.’
The weirdest thing you have heard about the mole on your cheek ‘ Eh jo thoda til hai, oh sadda dil hai’.
You de-stress with A nice spa followed by lunch.
If not an actor, you would have been... A chef.
The five must-haves in every girl’s wardrobe... A salwar kameez, a little black dress, a pair of jeans that fit well, a crisp white shirt and nude pumps.
Do you believe fairness creams work? I think advertisements for fairness creams are very insulting. It feels bad to see young girls feeling pressurised to look fair.
A director you would give anything to work with Sanjay Leela Bhansali.
Your favourite accessory A watch.
A dessert that describes you Apple pie, because it’s hard outside and soft inside.
If you woke up one day and found you’d turned into a man… I’ll kill myself.
What’s your relationship status? Very much single and not ready to mingle

The Bharatiya 3:59 PM

Kalki Koechlin, Actress Biography

Kalki Koechlin, Actress

Kalki Koechlin tells us how her last name is pronounced, talks about her love life and movies.
So, how exactly should we pronounce your last name?

Kösh-lan.

Chanda or Paro, whom would you rather be in real life?

Paro.

Who do you prefer: Anurag, the boyfriend; Anurag, the husband; or Anurag, the director?

All I would say is life with him is great!

A literary character you’d love to play.

I did play one in Dev.D and it was a very memorable experience.

What turns you on?

A sense of humour and a sense of stubbornness.

What turns you off?

Self involvement. I can’t stand it.

Marriage is…

A continuation and expression of love.

What brings a smile to your face?

Chocolate and fashion.

What is style for you?

It’s very personal. I am very stubborn in my personal style. It is my expression of freedom.

Five things you can’t live without?

Diaries, notebooks, mutton, chocolates and a sense of humour.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

I am very happy the way I am. I am also happy with my choices, be it movies or otherwise.

Your ultimate travel destination?

I love Delhi, especially the food in the city.

Your one stereotypically French trait or habit?

It has got to be my fashion sense. Actually it’s my French connection that made me associate with Grey Goose.

The one typical Bollywood masala film you wish you had been part of?

Band Baaja Baraat.

The best dish that Anurag has ever cooked for you?

I just love everything he cooks.

Do you cook? Tell us about your best dish, and your magic ingredient?

I cook mostly fancy French food like quiches. That secret ingredient needs to remain a secret. My movies
A film you have seen more than FIVE times?
Les Enfants du
Paradis by Marcel Carné
A movie that takes you back to your childhood?
The NeverEnding Story (I knew every line by heart!)
The most overrated film?
Gone With The Wind
One paisa vasool film?
The Matrix, but only the first part. The next two were overrated
The first movie you saw on the big screen?
Anjali (The Tamil version)
Birthday: January 9
Sun sign: Capricorn
Place of birth: Puducherry
School and College: Hebron School, Ooty, University of London
Hometown: Puducherry
High point of your life: Going to university, getting independent
Low point of your life: Being alone
First break: Dev.D (2009)
Currently doing: Just launched Grey Goose’s style du jour. Shooting for Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani and Ek Thi Daayan

The Bharatiya 3:58 PM

Vidyut Jammwal, Actor Biography

Vidyut Jammwal, Actor

If you weren’t an actor, you would have been...
I am a martial artist first and then an actor.

Which classic film would you have loved to work in?
Jackie Chan’s Police Story.

The best thing about your debut film Force was...
The fact that I swept all the debut awards that year despite playing a villain.

The fittest actors in Bollywood.
Hrithik Roshan and Suniel Shetty.

Your fitness funda.
Listen to your body and understand what it needs. Eat for your stomach and not your eyes.

Did you go through any special training for your stunts in Commando?
I’ve been training in kalaripayattu since I was three years old. We worked hard to create stunts that would be visual spectacles. I trained for months.

Your greatest extravagance.

Watches! I’m an obsessive collector.

One director you want to work with.
From Dibakar Banerjee, Imtiaz Ali and Anurag Kashyap to Vipul Shah and Tigmanshu Dhulia, I want to work with all of them.

One thing nobody knows about you.
I was once referred to as ‘Apple Bottoms’. How embarrassing!

Your favourite street food?
Bhel and pani puri.

The best thing about Bollywood is...
The consistently evolving narrative and style of storytelling, along with how the industry welcomes talented people, even from a non-film background.

Your strategy in a crisis is...
To go through the crisis. That’s the best strategy.

What’s in your fridge right now?
Gulab jamuns. I’ve been craving them for some time.
CommandoThe song that lifts your spirits.

Lutt Jawan from Commando.

Your dream destination.
Rishikesh.

One thing you will never eat.
Anything non-vegetarian.

You destress with.
Training.

The last line of your autobiography would read…
I am with the universe that created me.

My movies

A film you have watched more than five times
Force - 34 times!

The most overrated film
Hangover 2

A movie that was a part of your childhood
Enter The Dragon

The first movie you saw on the big screen
Robocop in 1987

The most paisa vasool film
Singh is Kinng

Birthday: December 10
Sun sign: Sagittarius
Hometown: Jammu
Place of birth: Kanpur
School: I went to several schools, including Army Public School, Dagshai
First break: Force, with John Abraham, in 2011
Low point of your life: I confess that I still haven’t had one yet
High point of your life: The time I was offered Commando. The film has given me the canvas and the freedom to do my kind of action, which is beyond anything India has seen before

Currently I AM ...
Living, breathing and eating Commando and getting hours of martial arts training

The Bharatiya 3:55 PM

Sunil Chhetri, footballer biography

India-s-captain-Sunil-Chhetri-11-reacts-after-scoring-team-s-2nd-goal-agianst-Cameroon-during-Nehru-cup-final-match-in-New-Delhi

Currently I have...
Just finished giving football tips to the Heineken Social Reporteron how to report at football tournaments'
High point of your life

Making my debut with the India versus Pakistan match in 2004 Low point of your life
Not getting a work permit to play for UK club Queens Park Rangers
If you weren’t a footballer you would have been?
An army officer.
How does it feel to be the second Indian footballer to play abroad after Baichung Bhutia?
To represent India in a diverse dressing room is nice. It’s a different experience in terms of infrastructure, training intensity and football culture.
What is the best thing about being captain of a football team?
It’s a great honour to represent your country on an international stage, and wearing the armband and leading the side is a great high. It’s a responsibility I cherish.
The person you admire the most?
My father, for the way he brought us up. His values and philosophy of life keep us focused on the job. In football, it is Lionel Messi.
How does Bhutia inspire you?
I see him as a mentor in my footballing career. He always helps junior players, both on and off the field. During the time I shared a dressing room with him, I was always keen on learning a thing or two from him.
Who are your all-time favourite footballers and why?
Brazilian legend Ronaldo. He has always been my favourite as someone who plays in my field position [forward]. He has everything – pace, power, high speed dribbling, and so many goals! Also, the number of comebacks he made after numerous injuries is very inspiring. I would also put [Lionel] Messi and Andrés Iniesta on the list.

Do you follow cricket? Who are your favourite cricketers?
I keenly follow the fortunes of the national team and Mahi [Mahendra Singh Dhoni] as a player.
One song that defines your current state of mind.
Stand up (for the champions) by Right Said Fred.
Your favourite travel destination.
Barcelona.
One thing you dislike about your appearance.
I wish I was a couple of inches taller.
Your greatest extravagance.
My new house.
One thing about you that is mostly unknown.
I sleep for 12 hours a day, and sometimes even longer. I can sleep anywhere, at any time.
If you were an ice cream flavour, what would you be?
Chocolate chip cookie.
What can you live in?
Shorts and a T-shirt.
If you have less than a minute, what would you take on a trip?
Dental kit, passport, cash and mobile phone.
What makes your day?
Good food, and a good training session.
How do you destress?
I am a huge PlayStation and FIFA addict and that is how I generally spend my off days.
What touches your heart?
A random act of kindness.
Your favourite fast food.
Fortunately, I am not very fond of fast food.
Your mantra for success.
Enjoy what you do and give it everything you have.
Your fitness fundas.
Train hard and smart, eat right and get adequate rest.

My football fantasies

To play a World Cup for India in India

To help the younger generation in India achieve their footballing dreams

To play forward with Lionel Messi for Barcelona

To improve the perception of India as a footballing nation Your favourite bollywood actress.
Konkona Sen

Birthday: August 3
Place of birth: Hyderabad
Hometown: Delhi
School/college: Army Public School

The Bharatiya 3:53 PM

Taapsee Pannu Biography

Actress: Taapsee Pannu

Birthday: August 1

Place of Birth: Delhi

College: Mata Jai Kaur Public School, Delhi; Guru Tegh Bahadur Institute of Technology, New Delhi

First break: Telegu film Jhummandi Naadam, in 2010

Sun sign: Leo

Hometown: Delhi

High point of your life: Yet to come

Low point of your life: I’m usually happy, so can’t really recall any low point

Currently I am: Doing two Tamil films called Valai and Ganga. I’m soon going to sign a Hindi movie that will go on the floors by October

If you were the editor of a magazine for a day, whom would you put on the cover?: Hrithik Roshan, for obvious reasons. And the picture will be of us both

Your favourite Punjabi slang: Koi na...

Your favourite travel hotspot in north India: I’m not a mountain person but I like Leh a lot, a beautiful valley

A Punjabi dish to die for: Being a sardarni, I love chole bhature!

A Punjabi song you can’t stop humming: Honey Singh’s Angreji Beat and Ashok Masti’s Glassy

Which classic would you have chosen as your debut?: My debut was the remake of a classic — 1981 film Chashme Buddoor
What was the worst part about being in a remake?: Unwanted criticism by those who hadn’t watched the film because they preferred the original

What are the three things you would do if you could?: Eventually, I want to settle abroad, make sure my parents are secure in their old age and then visit the moon

A fashion trend you wish would make a comeback: Short kurtis teamed with Patiala salwars

Your favourite piece of jewellery: Bangles and anklets

Do you believe fairness creams work?: I think they work psychologically, not practically

Three cosmetics you can’t do without: I simply dislike cosmetics. When I’m out and not shooting, I only wear a lip balm

Your favourite cuisine: I love street food from Delhi’s roadside vendors — golgappe, chaat papdi, aloo tikki et al

A song to describe your life: Aaj main upar, aasma niche…

A talent you would love to acquire: To sing beautifully

Which do you prefer—a little black dress or a black sari?: A black sari

What would you wear to a hot date?: A cute, bright and flowy dress

The last line of your autobiography would read: See you back soon!

If you weren’t an actor, you would be: An MBA into marketing

Which colour dominates your wardrobe?: Currently, it’s fuchsia

A language you wish you were: fluent in Telegu and Tamil

You de-stress with: Sleeping and shopping

A body part you would insure: My brain, which I use quite often but which people eat up

The last time you had a bad hair day: I have curly and volumnous hair that I don’t even comb regularly. Most people would think I have a bad hair day everyday

A director you’d give anything to work with: Mani Ratnam

A gadget you can’t do without: I’m a software engineer and a gadget freak. From laptop to hard disks, ear phones to mobile— I can’t do without any of them

If you could jet-set to anywhere in the world, where would it be?: Mars, to see where men came from

Who is your 3 am friend?: My sleep

If you woke up and found you’d turned into a man: I’d probably die of a heart attack. I’m proud to be a woman

What will we find in your fridge?: Chocolates, which people keep gifting me in the belief that I love them like most girls do. As a matter of fact, I don’t like chocolates, teddy bears or flowers.

A movie that always brings a smile to your face: My film, Chashme Baddoor

A film that was part of your childhood: Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge

The most overrated film: Dil Chahta Hai

The first movie you saw on screen: Chhota Chetan

A film that you have watched over five times: Chak De! India

=====

Taapsee Pannu — Biography (Comprehensive)

1. Quick facts

Full name: Taapsee Pannu
Date of birth: 1 August 1987
Place of birth: New Delhi, India
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science / Engineering (studied at institutions affiliated to Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University)
Occupations: Actress, producer (primarily works in Hindi, Telugu and Tamil cinema)

2. Early life and education

Taapsee Pannu was born and raised in New Delhi in a Punjabi (Jat Sikh) family. She completed her schooling in Delhi and went on to study engineering, earning a degree in Computer Science/Engineering. After graduating she briefly worked as a software engineer before switching careers to modelling and then films. These formative years gave her a practical, disciplined background uncommon among acting peers and have frequently been noted in profiles of her work ethic.

3. From modelling to films — career launch

Taapsee entered the public eye through modelling and television talent contests. She took part in Channel V’s talent hunt Get Gorgeous (2008) and won pageant-style titles during her early modelling phase, which opened doors to acting offers in South Indian cinema (Telugu and Tamil) where she made her initial film appearances. Her mix of technical education, modelling experience and on-camera poise helped her transition smoothly into full-time acting.

4. Breakthrough and mainstream recognition

Although Taapsee’s first films came in regional cinema, her national breakthrough in Hindi-language cinema came with critical and audience acclaim for a series of socially resonant and performance-driven films. Notably:

Pink (2016): A legal/social drama that dealt with consent and gender bias; Taapsee’s performance as one of the central young women earned her wide recognition and the film became a cultural touchstone for conversations about consent in India. The film’s success significantly raised her profile in Bollywood.

5. Notable roles and career milestones

Taapsee is known for choosing diverse roles across genres — courtroom dramas, social issue films, biopics and thrillers. Key titles and milestones include:

Pink (2016) — large national profile and critical praise; the film influenced public conversation about consent.
Saand Ki Aankh (2019) — a biographical drama where she played sharpshooter Prakashi Tomar (alongside Bhumi Pednekar); the film showcased her range and commitment to challenging, character-driven cinema.
Thappad (2020) — a social drama centring on domestic respect and dignity; widely discussed and awarded, this is another example of her alignment with issue-based cinema.

Beyond these, she has appeared in successful commercial and streaming ventures, balancing mainstream box-office projects with films that foreground a social message or strong female characters.

6. Awards and recognition

Taapsee has been recognised repeatedly for her acting. She won critical and industry awards for performances in films such as Saand Ki Aankh and Thappad (including Filmfare recognition). Her performances have earned both popular and critics’ accolades, consolidating her reputation as one of the more respected actresses of her generation.

7. Style, approach and public image

Taapsee’s onscreen persona is often described as grounded and forthright. She chooses scripts that frequently centre a woman’s perspective or social reality, and she is perceived as an actor who values performance over starry glamour. Off-screen, she has cultivated a candid, media-savvy image: outspoken in interviews, frank about career choices, and active on social media. Critics and trade observers often note her ability to move between mainstream commercial cinema and smaller, message-driven projects — a versatility that has become a signature.

8. Personal life

Taapsee has maintained a relatively private personal life while occasionally speaking publicly about relationships and life choices. In 2024 she married former professional Danish badminton player Mathias Boe in a private ceremony (reports indicate the traditional wedding took place on 23 March 2024). She has discussed cultural adjustments and the cross-cultural aspects of married life in interviews since. Media coverage has noted the couple’s preference for privacy and balance between her India-based career and their life together.

9. Business interests and production

As her career matured Taapsee moved into production / backing roles for select projects (a common step for actors seeking creative control and a broader role in filmmaking decisions). She has also been associated with brand endorsements and is a sought-after face for advertising and campaigns, reflecting her commercial value alongside critical respect.

10. Public engagements and social voice

Taapsee’s film choices and public comments have repeatedly engaged with social themes (gender, dignity, individual agency). While not associated with formal political office or activist movements, her films and interviews often spark public debate and she has used her platform to discuss women’s rights, professional independence, and the film industry’s treatment of women. Journalists and cultural commentators frequently cite her work while discussing how mainstream Hindi cinema handles social issues.

11. Filmography highlights (select)

Early regional films (Telugu/Tamil) — debut and formative years.
Pink (2016) — nationwide recognition.
Saand Ki Aankh (2019) — critically acclaimed biopic.
Thappad (2020) — award-winning social drama.
Streaming and subsequent theatrical releases — a mix of thrillers, dramas and commercial films through the 2020s.

12. Reputation among peers and critics

Directors and co-actors often describe Taapsee as committed, disciplined (crediting her engineering background and early professional life) and willing to experiment. Critics praise her for consistently taking on characters that require emotional honesty rather than glamour alone. Industry trackers treat her as a reliable lead who can anchor issue-based films while still attracting box-office audiences.

13. Recent developments (note on currency of facts)

The biography above includes details verified in reputable publications as of recent reporting. For the very latest — new film announcements, award results, interviews or personal developments after early-to-mid 2025 — I recommend checking her official social-media accounts, major entertainment outlets, or updated film databases because castings, release schedules and personal news evolve frequently.

Short conclusion

Taapsee Pannu is a technically educated, performance-focused actress who has built a reputation for bold role choices and social-issue films while also achieving mainstream success. From regional cinema to national recognition with films like Pink, and award-winning performances in Saand Ki Aankh and Thappad, she remains one of Indian cinema’s most versatile and respected actresses. Her gradual move into production, combined with a discreet personal life and a public voice on gender and dignity, positions her as both a commercial star and a thoughtful artist.

The Bharatiya 3:51 PM

Jonty Rhodes, cricketer biography

Jonty Rhodes, cricketer

Interview-with-Jonty-Rhodes

If you weren’t a cricketer, you’d have been…
A teacher like my parents. And in a way, that is exactly what I’m doing as a coach.

One player against whom your fielding plans have mostly gone awry.
Sachin Tendulkar. His shots have such good angles that it becomes difficult to anticipate where he would go next.

How do you get your daily dose of adrenaline?
I watch a scary movie or go mountain biking to keep my adrenaline pumping.

If you were a Bollywood actor, who would you want as your leading lady?
Since most leading ladies in Bollywood are much younger than I am, I guess no one.

The best thing you’ve held in your hands.
As a father of two kids, the answer is not difficult to guess.

One thing you always did right before a match?
I could never sit still. I would keep jumping and stretching. I could never sit and meditate quietly. I used to soak in the energy around me.

A gadget you can’t live without.
My iPhone.

The biggest risk you’ve taken.
I’d gone snowboarding with an explorer in Switzerland. After a few hours, I lost control of the board near a small avalanche. But somehow, I
survived.

One piece of advice you wish someone had given you 10 years ago.
To not get into coaching (just kidding). I have no regrets.

Jonty Rhodes

Four things we’d find on your bedside table.

My phone, a charger, a book and a bottle of water.

Your first crush.
My school teacher. I was 14 at the time.

Your strategy in a crisis situation.
Smile your way through it.

The craziest rumour you have heard about yourself.
It has to be my link-up with Poonam Pandey. I feel like I could’ve helped her if she needed to practice stripping for the Indian team, but she was shy and ran away.

One thing that is definitely on your bucket list.
The one thing I really want to do is to ride a Royal Enfield to Ladakh.

Cricketers you admire and why.
Hansie Cronje, because the two of us grew up together. Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting and Brian Lara for their batting styles. Shane Warne. At times, he can make you look stupid!

Birthday
July 27

SUN SIGN
Leo

Place of birth
Pietermaritzburg, South Africa

Hometown
Durban

School/college
University of KwaZulu-Natal

FIRST BREAK
Scoring a century in my debut match. And funnily, according to the team sheet, I wasn’t supposed to play that day

Low point of your life
Losing Hansie Cronje

HIGH point of your life
My first cricket match for South Africa. It changed my life

CURRENTLY DOING
Playing fielding coach for Mumbai Indians and anchoring a show on NDTV Good Times

Film Industry