City360 Houston April 19 by City 360

Close contest between

Old Wine in New Bottle The Filmi ConnectionP5 Imran and Bilour Rehan Siddiqi says, USTAD P8

By: ARIF MEMON

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The Strings That Create Music In The 10

Vol 1 - No:5 Friday, April 19-May 2, 2013

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‘STRINGS BAND’ INSIDE

Photo Credit- Larry Pullen

P21 Tagore Society of Houston 2013 Essay Contest for High School Seniors

The

Boston that I knew

Meet The Volunteer Par Excellence:

Harish Jajoo

IA C E SP

Jajoo Family: Rishi, Shashi, Harish and Sid

“There is no joy greater than volunteering; to see the difference that you make” is the firm conviction of City council man HARISH JAJOO. He is in the business of volunteering from a young age and he was therefore able to bring the

Sushmita Sen marrying Wasim Akram? Serially-single Sushmita Sen is not going to walk down the aisle just yet. Rumours of Sushmita and Pakistani cricketer Wasim Akram planning a wedding have been rubbished by the actress' spokesperson.

same attitude to his professional work. That in turn made him so successful at his job and that has eventually led him to join public life. He is now into his second term as the member of the Sugar Land City Council. P4

Houston has its First Poet Laureate! By Mayor Annise Parker

It’s a great pleasure in my first column for City360 to announce the selection of award-winning author and poet Gwendolyn Zepeda as Houston’s first Poet Laureate.

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CITY

HARISH JAJOO

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City of Houston photo

Mayor A nnise Parker

Mayor Annise Parker (in pink) and the selection committee welcome new Houston Poet Laureate Gwendolyn Zepeda (in the polka dot dress)

Houston Has Its First Poet Laureate! It’s a great pleasure in my first column for City360 to announce the selection of award-winning author and poet Gwendolyn Zepeda as Houston’s first Poet Laureate. Gwendolyn will represent the city by creating excitement about poetry through outreach, programs, teaching and written work. She will receive an annual honorarium of $5,000 through the City’s Initiative Grant Program of the Houston Arts Alliance and serve a term of two years – April 2013 through April 2015. Selecting Houston’s first Poet Laureate was difficult due to the talent among the nominees. We were searching for a people’s poet rather than a poet’s poet – someone who will excite people about poetry. I believe we have found just that in Gwendolyn Zepeda and her approach. Gwendolyn is a Houston-based author

who is best known for her works of fiction, including “Growing Up Tamales,” “Houston, We Have a Problema,” “Lone Star Legend” and “Better with You Here.” However, Gwendolyn is also an accomplished poet. She has several chapbooks and published poems to her name, with a book of poetry due out in 2014: “It’s Zepeda Not Zapata.” In addition, her blog covers a variety of issues, and can be read at http://gwendolynzepeda.com/ blog/. As Poet Laureate, Gwendolyn is committed to developing a community outreach project for Houston’s many diverse neighborhoods, as well as local businesses. She will conduct workshops in which she will share the art and love of poetry and participate in community-based poetry programs. Gwendolyn will also provide content to the Houston Poet

Want to participate in a poetry workshop? Visit the Houston Public Library website at

www.houstonlibrary.org or call 832-393-1313.

Laureate Program web page and publish poetry to the website by the community members attending her workshops. Gwendolyn asked me to pass along this message to City360 readers: “It’s an incredible honor to be chosen as Houston’s first poet laureate. I’m excited about sharing poetry with our diverse communities and, more importantly, hearing what my fellow Houstonians will express through their own writing.” Houston joins several other major cities with poet laureates, including Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Antonio. Gwendolyn Zepeda is a native Houstonian and is a product of local public schools – Hamilton Middle School and Reagan High School. She has an English degree from the University of Texas at Austin, and is an accomplished novelist, blogger and poet.

FRIDAY APRIL 19, 2013

CITY360 SPECIAL Photo credit- Sanjana Jhaveri

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Harish Jajoo with Shashi Jajoo

Meet The Volunteer Par Excellence:

HARISH JAJOO “There is no joy greater than volunteering; to see the difference that you make” is the firm conviction of City council man HARISH JAJOO. He is in the business of volunteering from a young age and he was therefore able to bring the same attitude to his professional work. That in turn made him so successful at his job and that has eventually led him to join public life. He is now into his second term as the member of the Sugar Land City Council.

IA C E P

S By

Nargis Lakhani

How did this journey of Harish begin? Harish came from New Delhi, India as a young man to Canada. There he studied civil engineering at the University of Windsor. After graduation, he went back to India to practice engineering but returned back within a year. During his stay in India he met Shashi and married her. Looking around for a job in Houston he landed one with the Public Works Department for the City of Houston, and found his calling. With a twenty-nine year track record of successfully managing large Public Works and Infrastructure programs for the City of Houston, Harish Jajoo has managed over 100 employees, supervised countless projects and their budgets and has worked closely with council members in resolving questions and concerns. Jajoo’s unique qualification – his professional experience in municipal management – has provided him with a multitude of opportunities in managing the planning, design and construction

Harish Jajoo with Boys Scout member and US Congrssman Pete Olson

of multi-million dollar infrastructure is a University of Houston business projects. for the City of Houston. school graduate and is currently A Certified Floodplain Manager working in Sugar Land. and Registered Professional EnIn 2011, Harish retired from his gineer, Jajoo understands what profession so as to be able to deit takes to get things done for a vote himself completely to public municipality – be it infrastructure, life. He ran for an open seat on the inter-governmental agency coordi- Sugar Land City Council. It was not nation, city council considerations, an easy win - it was a three-way stretching capital investment dollars race and campaigning was quite or interacting with citizens to explain intense. Harish experienced the complex budgetary and technologi- power of community support and cal issues. he cherishes A twenty-eight the memyear resident of ory of the Sugar Land, Jahuge turnout joo has devoted at election himself to a wide time even range of comtoday. “Fammunity causes. ily, friends, He has always supporters remained inand neighvolved with bors’ enthusome cause or siasm all the other but he put together has continued energized to remain a perme”, says manent member Harish. He of the Exchange walked from Harish Jajoo with Mayor Club of Sugar one neighJimmy Thompson Land. This club borhood to raises funds and another in distributes these to various charity his district, getting to know the resiorganizations. However, the unique dents first hand. He has been electpractice of this club is that not a ed for a second term un-opposed. penny of the funds collected goes He is happy with the difference he towards salaries or any other per- has been able to make so far in how sonal expense. All the work is done the city manages and maintains its voluntarily. infrastructure as well as being an Shashi Jajoo is the Lab Man- advocate for fiscally conservative ager at Memorial Hermann Sugar ideas on budgets and contracts. Land Hospital. They have two sons He wants to contribute towards who graduated from Clements High making Sugar Land a destination School. Rishi is pursuing a PhD city not only for people from across program at Harvard University. Sid the USA but also from across the

globe. A performing arts venue with a seating capacity for 7,000 people, a permanent festival ground where community events like Holi and 4th of July celebrations can be showcased and a community park in Telfair are some of the projects in the pipeline. He is proud to be a South Asian who is a part of the public life of the USA, and he wants to see more of us come forward and participate in public affairs. Since Fort Bend and Sugar Land is such a diverse community, it is an amazing experience to be able to contribute your talents. Harish encourages us to come out of our comfort zones and join the mainstream volunteer groups and lead by example for our growing younger generation. About his future plans, Harish has a few which he is so far holding close to his heart. He is vocal and enthusiastic about the next two years as the council representative. These are exciting times for the city of Sugar Land and Harish is all set to leave his own mark on its history. Careful planning by an experienced urban infrastructure professional will provide Sugar Land with essential leadership to meet the challenges that lie ahead. Harish Jajoo is committed to providing leadership for Sugar Land based on his vast experience and knowledge in municipal management. Let’s all wish Harish the very best. I invite all Houstonians and especially all those living in Sugarland to visit his website at www.harishjajoo.com

FRIDAY APRIL 19, 2013

CITY360 SPECIAL

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Old Wine in New Bottle Bollywood completes 100 years of cinema this year. From time to time we have had several remakes in the Hindi Film Industry. Quite a few South Indian movies have been remade in Bollywood, with slightly modified stories. When we look closely at the films that have been remade, they are not only from South India but also from Hollywood. I have not distinguished between remakes/ inspired /copied/ adapted /legally acquired/ stolen, etc movies. The purpose of this list is to point out some Indian movies which are similar to an original movie, with special focus on Hollywood movies.

Over 25 years experience in Bollywood in various capacities. Arif Memon now lives in Houston and continues to wear many hats

The Filmi Connection By: ARIF MEMON memonarif22@hotmail. com

In 2009, director Ravi Chopra received a legal notice from 20th Century Fox which alleged that his movie Banda Yeh Bindaas Hai had blatantly plagiarised the 1992 comedy MCV. Fox sought $1.4 million in damages. It was the first time a Bollywood filmmaker was taken to court by a Hollywood studio over the remake of a film. The case was finally settled out of court for an undisclosed amount. Nowadays film makers are trying to remake the yesteryear hits from Bollywood itself. Most film critics, in their late 30s or early 40s, inevitably end up comparing Hrithik Roshan or SRK with Amitabh Bachchan in the original Agneepath or Don. But audiences, despite their fickle nature, don't seem to care. For the young, boisterous, front stall fans in single-screen theatres as well as the chirpy weekend crowd at multiplexes, a remake is entertainment backed by unforgettable stories. And while their makers may be panned for poverty of ideas, there is no getting away from the fact that they know what sells. Old Hindi films and classics have emerged as hot property in a famously unpredictable trade, with prices for remake rights more than doubling in the past three years. For decades, Tamil and Telugu film pro-

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ducers have made money by selling remake rights of their films to Bollywood, which is always desperate for new stories. Today, the game is being replayed within Bollywood. Big Mumbai producers are rummaging through old Hindi releases, even some of the black & white titles that still ring a bell. "The market is definitely more receptive to old Hindi film remakes and I see the trend growing with prices nearly double of what they were a few years ago," says Viacom18 Motion Pictures COO Vikram Malhotra. There is no guarantee that the yesteryears’ hits would also be a hit today. The old hit HIMMATWALA starring JEETENDRA AND JAYA PRADA which was recently remade by director Sajid Khan was a complete failure at the box office. Viacom had bought the 1981 Sai Paranjpe-directed cult comedy Chashme Baddoor two years ago; market sources say Viacom paid Rs 40-50 lakh, but Malhotra admits he would have had to fork out Rs 1 crore if the deal happened today. He sees value in remaking as long as the "equity of the original" is preserved.

The business logic is simple: old movies that were commercially successful then could fetch a good price today. Besides corporate producers, many independent producers also hold rights to some classics. There also are those who bought some titles with fond hopes of remaking the films someday. Few outside the trade know that Gordhan Tanwani, the maker of Tarzan the Wonder Car, had bought the rights of Nariman Irani's 1978 classic Don in 2004, with a clear intention to remake it. But Tanwani went on the back foot after Wonder Car crashed at the box office. He later sold the rights of Don to Ritesh Sidhwani. The rest, as they say, is history.

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Kona Grill to open at 3 Waterway Square in The Woodlands Waterway Square District This will be Kona Grill’s second location in the Houston area THE WOODLANDS: The Woodlands Development Company (TWDC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Howard Hughes Corporation (NYSE: HHC), today announced that

Kona Grill has signed an 8,494-square-foot lease at 3 Waterway Square, a Class A, 234,000-squarefoot, 11-story building in The Waterway Square District of The Woodlands Town Center. The anticipated completion date is summer of 2013 for 3 Waterway Square, located at the corner of Lake Robbins

Drive and Woodloch Forest Drive. Construction of Kona Grill will commence with the completion of 3 Waterway Square. The 3 Waterway Square building has been designed by Elkus Manfredi of Boston, MA. “We are excited that Kona Grill will be opening at 3 Waterway Square. The Class A office building is already 94% leased,” said

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“We are very happy to join The Woodlands’ community and are looking forward to experiencing the rest of what has already started out as a very warm welcome,” said Jenny Elkins, Vice President of Operations for Kona Grill. “Based on the success of our current Houston Galleria location, we anticipate our upcoming location in The Woodlands to be a huge hit.” Kona Grill was represented by Debbie Adams with EDGE Realty Partners while Rip Reynolds, Senior Leasing Manager for The Howard Hughes Corporation represented TWDC in the lease transaction.

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Bellaire New Home Showcase Hosts Six Homes

Community Events Tagore Society of Houston 2013 Essay Contest for High School Seniors

BENEFITING EVELYN'S PARK CONSERVANCY

BELLAIRE: The Bellaire New Home Showcase will open the doors of six new homes in the Bellaire area to the public on May 11&12 and May 18&19, 2013. This is the 25th year the Bellaire Homes Show is celebrating its showcasing of current trends in classic homebuilding. Proceeds from the event will benefit Evelyn's Park Conservancy, a new fiveacre Bellaire recreational development. The new home showcases will be held at the following locations: Bentley Custom Homes, 541 Chelsea Bentley Custom Homes, 5122 Braeburn Tommy Cashiola Construction Co, 403 Mulberry Tommy Cashiola Construction Co, 4307 Compton Watermark Builders, 5203 Mimosa Richard Price Custom Homes, 4508 Holly WHEN: May 11-12 & 18-19 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information on the Bellaire New Home Showcase, visit www. BellaireHomesShow.com. For more information on Evelyn's Park Conservancy, to volunteer or make a tax-deductible donation: visit www.EvelynsPark.org or mail to Evelyn's Park Conservancy, PO Box 459, Bellaire, TX 77402.

Bellaire New Home Showcase volunteers (counter-clockwise) Philip Robbins, Rachel Crochet, Diane Citek, Menny Rosenbaum, Keith Rubenstein, Rusty Rubenstein, Larry Haas and Cindy Siegel

The Tagore Society of Houston, a non profit 501-C3 organization, invites 2013 Texas High School Seniors to its annual essay contest focused on the philosophy and works of the great Indian Nobel Laureate Rabindra Nath Tagore. The primary objective of this contest is to promote “borderless thinking” and the enduring insights from one of the world’s greatest poets as our seniors step out onto their own world stage. The Essay Topic and submission instructions are attached or can be downloaded from www. tagoresociety.org immediately. Submission Deadline is May 18, 2013, 12 midnight. All submissions will be on-line through the website. Winners will be notified latest by June 30, 2012. The Award ceremony date, place and time will be announced later.

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FRIDAY APRIL 19, 2013

NEWS

Next Week Weather Forecast Friday 19, 2013

Partly Cloudy Hi 80 F - Lo 55 F Saturday 20, 2013

Rainy Hi 79 F - Lo 62 F Sunday 21, 2013

Rainy Hi 80 F - Lo 67 F Monday 22, 2013

Partly Cloudy Hi 85 F - Lo 70 F Tuesday 23, 2013

Partly Cloudy Hi 86 F - Lo 70 F Wednesday 24, 2013

Partly Cloudy Hi 85 F - Lo 62 F Thursday 25, 2013

Partly Cloudy Hi 80 F - Lo 56 F

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The

Boston that I knew

Another close contest is expected between Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairman (PTI) Imran Khan and the four-time winner, Awami National Party’s (ANP) Ghulam Ahmad Bilour in NA-1 Peshawar in the upcoming general election to be held in May.

Close contest between Imran, Bilour likely in Peshawar NA-1 PESHAWAR: Historically, NA Peshawar-1 has been the battlefield of the ANP and the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP). However, after the rejection of the nomination papers of the PPP candidate Zulfiqar Afghani, it is crystal clear that there will be a neck-to-neck contest between Khan and Bliour here for which they have already started their election campaign in the constituency. The constituency has a history of producing unexpected results. This also is the constituency which has been selected by the country's political heavyweights from outside Peshawar belonging to various political parties. Bilour won this seat in 1988, 1997, 2008 and 1990 in which he defeated Benazir Bhutto. Then PPP’s candidate, Aftab Ahmed Khan Sherpao and Zafar Ali Shah had won the seat in 1988 and 1993 respectively. Later Sherpao vacated the seat to be elected as chief minister. The PML also won the seat twice in 1977 and in 1985's non-party based elections. Yousaf Khattak and Younis Elahi Sethi came out victorious during those elections.

The other notables who are participating in the election on NA Peshawar-1 this time are JUI-F’s Haji Shahnawaz, PML-N’s Afzal Khan Panyala, and JI’s Shabbir Ahmad Khan. The second strongest party in the constituency, the PPP, looks weak as its main candidate Zulfiqar Afghani has been disqualified. Afghani’s nomination papers were rejected last Sunday as he is still serving in the Sui Northern Gas Pipeline Limited (SNGPL). The covering candidate for NA-1, Iqbal Mohmand, is unwilling to contest on the seat he is the final candidate for PK Peshawar-3. However, the PPP leadership is trying to convince him to contest the election on a National Assembly seat instead of the provincial seat. Syed Ayub Shah, who had bagged over 35,000 votes, is not considered for the ticket this time. The votes of the religious forces, who had won this seat in 2002 on the MMA platform, are divided this time as the JUI-F, the JI, the Muttahida Deeni Mahaz and the JUI-N are contesting separately in upcoming election.

The political experts and analysts say as the Bilour family had offered numerous political services to the people of the constituency, it would e difficult for Khan to defeat him. However, they say if the PTI succeeds in motivating the people, who did not vote in the last election to come out this time, the results could change in Khan’s favour. In 2008, only 23 percent of the registered voters had cast their votes. The PTI is gaining popularity as the party promises to end corruption, US dominancy and restore peace in the country. However, locals say corruption is not an issue in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, but militancy is which “Khan can’t eliminate as he has a soft corner for them”. On the other hand, PTI supporters argue that Khan has always condemned militants, and remains anti-drones. “Only Imran Khan can restore peace in the region as only he can eliminate militancy,” Ahmad Nabi, a shop owner in Mena Bazaar, said. He said he wanted change and would cast his vote for just that. The youth of the constituency is also supporting the PTI. (Source: PT)

Google celebrates India’s first passenger train with doodle India’s first passenger train that chugged out of Bori Bunder in Bombay to Thane 160 years ago was relived by Internet search engine giant Google on its homepage on Tuesday. In the doodle, the locomotive train replaces the first ’O’ of the word Google. The idea of a railway to connect Bombay with Thane, Kalyan and with the Thal and Bhore Ghats first struck George Clark, the then chief engineer of the Bombay government, during a visit to Bhandup in 1843. The first railway ran over a stretch of 21 miles from Bombay to Thane.

The formal inauguration ceremony on April 16, 1853 saw 14 railway carriages, carrying about 400 guests; leave Bori Bunder at 3.30 pm amid loud applause and to the salute of 21 guns. Doodles are the fun, surprising, and sometimes spontaneous changes that are made to the Google logo to celebrate holidays, anniversaries, and the lives of famous artists, pio-

neers, and scientists. On February 8, the Google doodle commemorative logo paid tribute to Ghazal king Jagjit Singh on his 72nd birthday. On the occasion of 64th Republic Day, Google doodled a Royal Bengal tiger on its India homepage. A group of Googlers get together regularly to brainstorm and decide which events will be celebrated with a doodle. The ideas for the doodles come from numerous sources including Google users. The doodle selection process aims to celebrate interesting events and anniversaries that reflect Google’s personality and love for innovation. (Source: the hindu)

Those behind the Marathon bombings have not understood the ethos of this great American city, its diversity and the welcome it has extended to generations of students from across the world I never expected that Boston would be attacked. I never expected that men, women and even children who ran in a traditional race not just competitively but, more for the fun of it, would be attacked. I never expected this in a hauntingly beautiful old city where I came of age, that place where people like me from all over the world gathered to gain knowledge. They came over the centuries to trade ideas, and they came to reinforce universal ideals such as freedom of speech and movement. They came to challenge one another’s ideologies, to be sure, but they did not come to assault innocent human beings. They came, most of all, because Boston — one of America’s oldest urban centres — was forever young. And it was always understood that by coming to Boston, one was tapping into some strange elixir of youth — that one, too, would remain forever young, forever the keeper of good thoughts and good will. If Boston didn’t keep you forever young in heart and spirit, then which place could? If Boston didn’t teach you to overcome incipient hate and venality, then which place could? If Boston didn’t persuade you to keep your personal violence in check, then which place could? After Monday’s bomb blasts during the Boston Marathon, my assumptions about the Boston that I knew at a different time and at a different age were suddenly called into question.

(Source: the hindu)

FRIDAY APRIL 19, 2013

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The Strings That Create Music In The

‘STRINGS BAND’ By: Nargis Lakhani

South Asians across the USA have been treated to the boom of the STRINGS BAND; Houstonians had a night to remember. On Friday the 29th March, Stereo Live came alive to the Rock Band’s highly energetic and memorable performance. Bilal and Faisal have been the main pillars or The Legends of this band for over twenty years, Ahad the drummer, Adeel Khurram the lead guitarist, Shakir Khan the base guitarist, Hyder on the keyboard and Nitesh Ahuja the FOH (front of house) sound engineer together make up the Strings Band. The other team are of the new generation that literally grew up listening to the band. Based in Karachi, Pakistan, the band tours many parts of the world, but they make as many as three trips to India in a month. They love being in India the most - there the organizers can go as far as to have the band play on the streets entertaining the walking population. The enthusiastic crowds of India drive them to give their best. They are so much in demand there that often on their tours they perform twice a day for different audiences. Strings are popular not only for their music but also for their songs which have a strong poetic sense to them. In the USA they started out with a concert in Boston, and then went to San Francisco, Houston, Dallas and finally New York. In fact, performances in Houston, Dallas and New York were back to back from Friday through Sunday i.e.29th through 31st March 2013. Bilal and Faisal are the heart of the band, no doubt but the others in the band may be young and new yet they are important and are on a journey of their own. Let’s get to

know them better. Adeel Khurram, the lead guitarist, has been with the Strings Band for many years, and he is happy to be touring with the group across the world. The dedication of the lead team, Bilal and Faisal, keep him inspired. He considers the Strings Band like a music school where they get to continuously learn and also create new music. For him, audience feedback during the concert is very

important. As a team they could somehow manage even if an instrument broke down or did not work as expected during the concert. However, if the audience response is not as expected, then nothing can get them excited as artists. Shakir Khan, the base guitarist, is proud to be a member of this band that appeals to an audience that ranges from teenagers to seniors. In fact, the organizers had got the age restriction that normally applies to night clubs waived for this concert. He says music is integral to a human’s sense of enjoyment and relaxation. Music should be an important part of everyone’s life, for that matter.

Ahad, the Drummer, is the youngest of the band members; he is only 25 years old and first toured the US with the band when 22. Every time he plays his drums, he literally feels like he is transported into heaven. He grew up in a family of drummers, both his dad and mom play the drums and so drumming is in his blood. When growing up, he practiced drumming on his pillows in the deep of the night, often from 12 am to 3 am; almost like meditation. For him, music is his whole world and he cannot see himself anywhere else. He would love to be a permanent member of the band, also do recordings, and create new music. He is completely open to the world of music. Hyder on the keyboard has been with the band for over a decade. The keyboard creates and maintains the required tension in the concert. He loves

it when they are composing songs and setting them to music. He would love to create his own band and sing more of his own songs. He says that music is potent; it can sway one towards positive habits but it can also pull you into indulging in harmful indul-

gences. Nitesh Ahuja the FOH (front of house ) Manager/sound mixer joined the band on its visit to Hyderabad, India. He defines his role as being an intermediary between the audience and the band by keeping the sounds balanced. A rock concert is all about managing the sounds from various instruments. He enjoys being with the band because every day is different, every location is different. He has to adapt and adjust and create a balance in every setting. This is very exciting for him - there is no monotony. He also runs his own business of selling and setting up sound equipment. He looks forward to become a full time event manager in the near future. The concert in Houston was in a club while in Dallas it was in an auditorium and in New York it Columbia University and was promoted by a group of inexperienced students. In each city it was a success, the audience got a taste of Desi Rock, which it craves for. Arif Memon, the Band manager had an exhilarating experience of being on the roads, meeting up not only with interested audiences but also with enquiries from promoters. He says that through the full month that he was with the band he found the group to be bonded like a family, very down to earth and professional in their approach. The three day back-to-back tour was very demanding but the band lived up to the challenge. The group had flown in from Pakistan into New York and flew out of New York again but whilst flying back the band was satiated with its touring and was leaving on a very positive note. As Arifbhia said, “vakt guzar jaata hai, yaaden rahe jaati hai”.

FRIDAY APRIL 19, 2013

CITY360 SPECIAL

CITY360HOUSTON.COM

Ama Photography by Aisha Khan

Shruti Avantsa performs a folk dance to Mere Dholna for Shivangini Dance School at HOLI 2013

16000 ATTEND MASALA RADIO’S

AAP KA COLORS HOLI When an unexpected COLD front hit Houston in the wee hours before HOLI on Sunday March 24th, the morning setup crew’s Ninad Gupte texted to headquarters “Hurricane winds here…tents are flying”, Masala Execs Sunil and Sandhya Thakkar, and the Masala team quickly nicknamed the event “Hurricane Holi.” Winds eventually died down in the middle of the event, but even then, record crowds turned up at Rosenberg’s Seabourne Creek Park to enjoy the 6th annual AAPKA COLORS HOLI 2013. Nikhil Shukla and Sameer Goswami from AapKa Colors TV Channel have been the title sponsors for several years and this has become the signature event for them. “What we try to convey thru our TV channels is evident at this Holi Mela. Celebration of life and our culture,” Diamond Sponsor Tara Energy’s Malik Jamal said, “We energize Houston, but this crowd energized us, wish there was a way to tap the energy emitting from these youths and HOLI-crazed fans!” The “Green HOLI” theme was evident in the new herbal & non-toxic colors sold exclusively by partnering Gujarati Samaj of Houston. The colors just washed off, even from clothing, and were safe to mix in the environment. Bio-degradable balloons and oxygen-releasing plants beautifully decorated the stage, and

the 100+ volunteer crew and Masala team wore green on lime green shirts to remind everyone to think “green” and preserve our planet. Lt. Aaron Slater on the camera exclaimed that despite the cold morning weather and winds, the event drew a record crowd, “somewhere between 16,000 and 17,000 people,” though definitely “a later crowd than normal” as the weather became more and more beautiful in the afternoon. “I was here last year and this year the crowd seemed more enthusiastic. This was well managed event and there were no issues all day which is surprising considering the number of attendees.” Indeed, the God-given air-conditioning was a blessing with the equinox Sun beating down from a clear sky as thousands reveled in HOLI madness. The highlights of the day was the multiple filmings of the HARLEM SHAKE HOLI video, with a wild crowd throwing colored powder in the air to the crazy beats of “Con los Terroristas.” BleedThrough Productions’ John Hale exclaimed, “It was the craziest thing I have ever shot, must have been a couple of thousand of people in front of the stage, dancing like they were possessed, and all listening to one guy [Sunil Thakkar] to throw Holi powder just at the right beat…

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madness to perfection!’ Harlem Shake Videos were shot in several locations, the largest in front of main stage with DJ Zee, and at the Gazebo Bash with DJ Nish & DJ Rizz, and in the middle of the Sponsors row with DJ AV. The Keemat Roti rolling contest had the audience rolling in laughter as Sunil T had the couples fiercly try to roll out the most rotis in 3 minutes. The winning couple Mr & Mrs Goyal won a $100 gift certificate from Gold Sponsor Keemat Grocers, and all contestans won a free bag of….you guessed it…atta! A color explosion of Holi revelers, Harlem Shake, and stage entertainment photos by AMA Photography by Aisha Khan are on display now on www.masalaradio.com, houstonholi.com, or facebook .com/HoustonHoli. Sugarland City Councilman Harish Jajoo dubbed it the most organized HOLI, with such a huge variety of events for every age group and taste. “You guys [Masala Radio] have really raised the standards of Indian events and festivals, I am simply amazed,” said Silver Sponsor Sanjay Khanna of Superior Granite by Vivaldi.” Contributing to the event were over 100 sponsors, 15 resturants, 35 booth vendors, 20 professional vendors, 30 Masala Crew, and over 100 volutneers from over 100 volunteers from UH PhiKappaPhi, DeltaSigmaPi,

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The Village School, and Austin / Bellaire / Dulles / Hightower High Schools. The entertainment-starved were fed colorful comedy by Masala Radio’s Sunil Thakkar introducing mesmerizing Bollywood dances by Houston leading dance schools. Ek Do Teen’s little 3 and 4 year olds stole the audience’s hearts. Shariqbhai of FunAsia was so excited he announced FREE Bollywood Movies to all HOLI revelers through the official date of HOLI March 28th! Bellaire High School led by Milan das celebrated the 25th Anniversary of Hindi classes with there presentation of “Oh My Ram!” Shivangini offered a reprieve from Bollywood with their folk and kathak based movements to Mere Dholna and Barso Re. Gold Sponsor Gary Yan of Alings Hakka yet again surprised the audience by presenting a range of Chinese dancers, finishing off with himself as Psy in Gangnam Style (Korea – China – same thing…!) Rhythm India over 50 performers dazzled with their stream of dance classes, the lead group with vibrant green saris in celebration of green HOLI. Houstonian – turned Indian TV Channel Star Mauli Dave made a rare appearance, crooning a few melodies about HOLI and from her latest Bollywood releases. Finale act Nach Houston brought the house

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FRIDAY APRIL 19, 2013

CITY NEWS

RAHAT FATEH ALI KHAN

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o…HOLI HAI!

an LI! Bura Na M

of HO Extreme case

HOLI Revelers delight in Masala Radio’s authentic Indian Rikshaw at HOLI 2013

Sunil & Sandhya Thakkar spread their love of culture and addiction to EXICTEMENT at HOLI 2013 down with a music variety music montage, dramatic dancers, and the visual play of holi as their white costumes were doused with every color of the palette. Thakkars’s kids Simran and Sahil made their debut as emcee’s as they introduced the next item – their parents and the Masala Crew Dance! Masala Radio Jockeys included Prenka, Rajoo, Dilip, Alka, Bijuria, Kashmira, Priya, Naina, Ajay, Sushil, Abhishek, Priti, and Ina. Event crew included the RJs as well as Amisha and Shilpi, Rinku, Ninad, Krupa, Shivani, Hima, Shreya, Shah, Ravi, Devan, Maulik, and DJ Zee. Other mind-blowing performances were giving by Nithya Hari’s Dancing Stars, Nupur Dance School, Bollywood Shake, Shingari’s School of Rhythm, and Anonymous. The entertainment ended with a BLACK & WHITE JHALAK DHIKLA JAA dance competition judged by AAPKA COLORs. 3 couples –Shah & Star, and Dhaval & Chandani, and the winning couple Malav & Aradhana. Aapka Colors present the winners with luxury logo items, and all participants received designer perfumes from W Perfumes. Stage sound boomed throughout the park with a 30,000 Masala Radio Crew of Radio Jockeys and Event Managers rock the stage with a quick intro dance

Rhythm India dancers led by Arzan Gonda (front) dance in costumes specially made for the “GREEN” Holi theme

watt system by AD SOUNDS. Hordes of the “just plain hungry” were delirious with food court choices. Madras Pavilion, Mayuri, and Ashiana turned out traditional North Indian full-on fare. Sankalp dished out South Indian dosas and idlis, Sagar Indian cuisine wonderfully presented Indo-Chinese. Standard Sweets served hot fresh baturas and chole, along with very Punjabi Kadi, Maduran Mirch Masala appealed to chaat lovers. Homestyle spicy kichadi and pavbaji were a hit at Neeta’s Indian Cuisine (not for the weaktongued)! Zaika ran out of their amazing vada pav, and Fadi’s added the only non-Indian fare of Mediterranean cuisine. As an added bonus, HeartBeat Lives doled out classic HOLI songs. And of course delicious cold drinks, sugar cane juice, faloodas, kulfis, and ice cream floated down from Baloch Ice Cream and Faloodas, Natura Ice Cream, and Chadrika Masala. The new Organo Gold dispensed samples and sold full sizes of robust organic coffee, while Ekal Vidyala gave away free chai. Alings Hakka was so busy at their restaurant, they donated their Gold sponsorship

booth to Maharasthra Mandal, a non-pofit group who sold snacks for the kids. Even the row of sponsor booths were filled with crowds, especially with the freebies passed out galore. Aapka Colors provided a free photo booth (until the wind snapped the booth in half) and coveted “green” reusable luxury tote bags, Texas Children’s gave away free tambourines, and MD& Associates – free popcorn. BMW showcases three latest model BMWs, which at the end of the event were just as colored as the people! “My favorite part of HOLI was the new 14-foot high Rath (Chariot) procession by SKAI foundation,” said co-association Hindus of Greater Houston rep Vijay Pallod. The Chariot held Lord Jaganath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who in the story of HOLI comes to rescue Prahlad from burning to death while in the lap of his evil aunt Hollika. Young singers from ISKCON chanted “Hare Krishna, Hare Rama…” as the chariot was pulled by devotees to the Holi Pragitya (bonfire) site. Due to up to 27 mph winds, the Rosenberg Fire marshal did not allow the 10-foot HOLI

tle r introduces Ti Sunil Thakka of a kl hu S l Sponsor Nikhi ors Aapka Col

Pratigya (bonfire) planned by the partnering Gujarati Samaj of Houston. GSH’s president Nishaben Mirani and vice-president Ajit Patel did not give up and finally received permission for a smaller HOLI fire to which the devoted offered their prayers. Seema Desai of Texas Children’s Hospital exuberated, “my team of non-Indians were delighted with the warm reception they received from Indo-American families. They want to come back with their own people and enjoy the festival next year!” Indeed, there was a record turnout of non-Indians, from mounting publicity and interviews. Fox 26 News covered the event, and featured it on their Sunday evening prime time news. The Houston Chronicle covered the event on the front page of Monday’s City & State page. For complete information, photos, and videos of HOUSTON HOLI, visit masalaradio.com, houstonholi.com, and facebook.com/hosutonholi. Halo Re Halo….Bura Na Mano… HOLI HAI!!

Shingari’s School of Rhythm pumps ups the audience with a colorful rendition of Chan Ke Mohalia from Action Replay

g for kar performin Simran Thak on st Naach Hou

FRIDAY APRIL 19, 2013

CITY NEWS

CITY360HOUSTON.COM

Ustad

Rahat

Fateh Ali Khan to perform at Relaint Arena Rahat Fateh Ali Khan landed directly in Houston to initiate his North America 2013 tour consisting of performances in over 25 cities across USA, Canada and the Carribean. The group arrived in Houston on April 17th and shortly after left for their program at Dallas. They will return back to Houston on Saturday April 20th where Rahat Fateh Ali Khan will be performing to an audience of over 8500 at Relaint Arena accompanied by a group of over 20 musicians. They will perform all his latest hits like Dagabaaz Re…, Halki Halki Khumarian…, Tere mast mast do nain.., some of his amazing qawalis and all major hit songs. Rahat Fateh Ali Khan’s LasVegas concert was recently televised on Star and since then

fans are going crazy after tickets. His performance is world class; he is one of the best performers in the world with top #1 rating across South Asia. Rahat Fateh Ali Khan Houston concert is organized by Houston’s top promoter Rehan Siddiqi who has already brought 100s of concerts to America. In just the last 3 weeks he brought four major back to back sold out events including a totally packed Adnan Sami concert and Strings Band. Rehan Siddiqi’s style and way of presentation is awesome. Whenever Rehan Siddiqi’s name is associated with a show, it not only guarantees sold-out record crowds but the sound, light, arrangement and specially the artist’s performance is magical. This year there is a

special sound company that is touring with the maestro ensuring that the audience gets top class sound all across the tour. So, get ready to sit back relax and enjoy the biggest performance of this year. Rehan Siddiqi says, “this is a very special extraordinary treat. All I can say is ‘ONE WORLD, ONE VOICE & BILLION FOLLOWERS’. IT’S THE ONE AND ONLY USTAD RAHAT FATEH ALI KHAN. Houstonians, get ready for RAHAT FATEH ALI KHAN’S best performance ever at the Relaint Arena. Tickets are available online www.sulekha.com www. desiclub.com, Patel Brothers Keemat Grocers, and World Food. For group ticketing call Rehan Siddiqi directly on 713545-4115

First Bank to open in the future Creekside Park Village Center in The Woodlands This will be First Bank’s initial location in The Woodlands THE WOODLANDS, TX – (Tuesday, April 16, 2013) – The Woodlands Development Company (TWDC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Howard Hughes Corporation (NYSE: HHC), today announced that First Bank has purchased a 1.17-acre site for a branch facility in the future Creekside Park Village Center in The Woodlands’ Village of

Creekside Park. First Bank will be located at the southeast intersection of Kuykendahl Road and New Harmony Trail. Construction will begin in April with completion slated for the fourth quarter of 2013. This will be the initial First Bank site in The Woodlands. With the opening of the Creekside Park Village Center location, First Bank will operate eight branches in three counties—Harris, Montgom-

ON TIME TRANSPORTATION

ery and Walker. “The Woodlands welcomes First Bank to Creekside Park Village Center,” said Alex Sutton, Co-President of TWDC. “The Village of Creekside Park is very family-oriented, and businesses in the 100-acre center will be vital to the community.” The Creekside Park branch will offer full-service banking including an ATM and a three-lane drive-thru. The building features arti-

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san-style architecture, complete with a fireplace and an internet café/patio area with free Wi-Fi. “As a strong, healthy community bank, we feel now is the opportune time to take a step south and offer our easy style of banking to The Woodlands area,” said Sam Baker, President and CEO of First Bank. Troy England, Senior Vice President with First Bank, will head the Creekside Park branch. “First Bank prides itself in making

decisions in a timely manner to provide customers with quick responses to their banking needs. Our focus is on investing in the communities we serve,” said England. First Bank was represented by Karl D. Willmann of Willmann Companies while Todd Edmonds, Broker with Colliers International, represented The Woodlands Development Company in the transaction.

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FRIDAY APRIL 19, 2013

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SUSHMITA SEN

GOSSIP

CITY360

April 19, 2013

Prabhu Deva interacts with fans

Bollywood stars in Canada for an awards event The who's who of the Hindi film industry arrive at the venue of a major awards show in Vancouver, interact with media

Priyanka Chopra greets fans Neha Dhupia

Ranbir Kapoor

Ileana D'Cruz interacts with the Shah Rukh Khan media talks to the media Anushka Sharma

Lalit Modi's niece to make her B-Town debut Asin

Zarine Khan talks to media persons

Jayati Modi to make her acting debut in Karan Johar's upcoming film

'GIPPI'

While this season’s Indian Premier League is going full force, Lalit Modi remains an unwelcome guest at the cricket tournie. However, his niece Jayati Modi is all set to earn her share of the limelight. The 16-year-old will be making her Bollywood debut in Karan Johar’s upcoming film. The young actress, who plays a teenage girl in school, bagged the role in the film thanks to social media. “The auditions were conducted through Facebook and Jayati happened to know about it via her friends. She registered in Delhi with a group of people but everyone auditioned except her,” says a source. Turns out director Sonam Nair noticed the rather shy girl in the crowd. “When Sonam asked her why she wasn’t auditioning, Jayati said she was not sure about the whole procedure. But when Sonam insisted, she went ahead and not only auditioned but also got the part,” adds the source. Courtesy: Mid-Day.com

GOSSIP John's friend blames Bipasha for split

A friend of John Abraham spills the beans on the highly unstable affair between him and Bipasha Basu and reveals the real reason behind their split

April 19, 2013

Shahid flies to Goa to get a healthy tan Shahid Kapoor recently found an ingenuous way to mix business with pleasure. For his next film, the actor needed to sport a tanned look. So he decided to go to Goa to soak in the warm sun and get a natural tan.

OMG! SRK to get a new neighbour - Salman Khan Buzz is that Salman Khan will be moving closer to his bete noire's Shah Rukh Khan's Bandra residence While most actors and actresses in Bollywood live out of palatial homes, Salman Khan preferred to still stay with his parents. However, looks like Sallu is all set to move out as rumours suggest he is on the lookout for a new address. Interestingly, this new home seems to be just a stone's throw away from his archenemy Shah Rukh Khan's Bandra Bandstand residence. A source says, `For over two decades, Salman bhai has lived in a one-bedroom flat in Galaxy Apartments. But now with his many dogs and other things, the space appears too small for him. He is most likely to move into Sagar Resham, which is just two buildings away from Mannat. ` The building in question is apparently owned by a Gujarati family and has a clear sea view. The source adds, `It is one of the oldest buildings in the area. ` Sagar Resham at Bandstand, just two blocks away from SRK's Mannat. A resident of Sagar Resham, on conditions of anonymity, says, `Salman has even come to our building on more than a couple of occasions to check out the place. The deal between the owners and Salman is nearly finalised. ` The handover seems to be coming at a whopping price tag of over `100 crore. Salman remained unavailable for comment. Sagar Resham at Bandstand, just two blocks away from SRK's Mannat. Courtesy: Mid-Day.com

Sushmita Sen

marrying Wasim Akram? Spokesperson says no

Look Mommy, Karan Johar is dancing, again Karan Johar has confessed that his mother Hiroo never likes him shaking a leg on screen While shooting for a promo of Color's Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa with Remo D'Souza, the filmmaker has done a special act. Now KJo is worried about his mother's reaction once she sees the promos. `My mother thinks I should stick to what I do best -- direction. I can't wait to see her reaction. Having spent time dancing and rehearsing, he admits that he loves dancing and says that it is easier than direction.`

Courtesy: Mid-Day.com

India visit left me shocked and sad: Lindsay Lohan

SRK's Mannat

Sagar Resham at Bandstand, just two blocks away from SRK's Mannat

Serially-single Sushmita Sen is not going to walk down the aisle just yet. Rumours of Sushmita and Pakistani cricketer Wasim Akram planning a wedding have been rubbished by the actress' spokesperson. Sushmita's too busy to plan a wedding according to her spokesperson who was quoted The Times of India as saying: "It's not true at all. In fact Sushmita is having a show in Mumbai on the 24th of this month. I don't think she can have an event in Mumbai as well as plan her wedding simultaneously." Sushmita is rumoured to have dated the Kolkata Knight Riders coach for two years after meeting on the sets of dance reality show Ek Khiladi Ek Haseena, which Sush and Wasim judged, in 2008. Sushmita, who last appeared in 2010 film No Problem, has two adopted daughters and has never married. She previously dated actor Randeep Hooda.

Hollywood actress Lindsay Lohan, who visited India in 2009 to shoot a documentary on child trafficking in the country, says it was an unforgettable experience that left her "shocked and sad". The troubled actress, 26, gearing up for the release of her film "Scary Movie 5", which hits screens in the US April 12 and here a week later, said about her India trip: "It was an experience I would never forget." "It left me shocked and sad.... Making this documentary for BBC3 has allowed me to lend my voice to the real hardship faced by children who are trafficked," she said in an email interaction from Los Angeles ahead of the film's release. Lohan's India visit had courted controversy with reports saying she violated visa rules. Her detractors felt she took up the BBC offer to scrap her wild party-girl image. She says she is thankful to "Scary Movie 5" co-star Charlie Sheen, who has also been in the spotlight for his wild ways, for offering her monetary help.

Courtesy: Mid-Day.com

SHOWBIZ

NEWS

Married Bollywood couples with huge age difference Check out the Bollywood stars who have married the spouses who are well younger or older to them.

APRIL 19, 2013

Sanjay Dutt and Manyataa Dutt Sanjay Dutt surprised everyone by marrying a former B-grade actress Manyataa. The age difference between them is 19 years which his by the far the biggest age gap between couples in Bollywood.

Bieber ‘wants Dubai home’ JUSTIN Bieber is reportedly planning to buy a home in Dubai. The Canadian singer is said to be looking for a property in the United Arab Emirates in order to have a base for when he plays gigs at the city’s Sevens Stadium on May 4 and May 5.The teenager was originally planning on a short-term stay, but is now looking into possibly having a more permanent residence should he ever wish to return, reports The Sun. A source said: “He was going to stay in a hotel but is now looking at houses with a view to a longer-term stay.” However, the insider added: “Justin will have to behave, though.” Last year, Bieber paid $6.5 million on his first home, a seven-bedroom property in the Calabasas suburb of California. Bieber has caused controversy in recent days over comments made in reference to Holocaust victim Anne Frank. Anne Frank House has defended the star for his “quite innocent” remark that he hoped the Holocaust victim would have been a fan. (DS)

Oye!

Dharmendra and Hema Malini Dharmendra and Hema Malini were always admirable as a couple, they fell in love with each other during Shooting of ‘Sholay’. But however the age difference between them is 13 long years and Dharmendra had to convert to islam in order to marry her. They now have 2 daughters Eesha and Ahaana and are still considered as made for each other.

Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao are known as one of the cutest couple in Bollywood. The age gap between them is 9 years, they met each other in the sets of ‘Lagaan’ in 2000 and married in 2004 after eventual divorce of Aamir Khan and Reena Dutta. They now have a son from a surrogate mother.

Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor were considered very odd couple when they started dating in 2007 considering their 10 year age gap. But now they are known to be one of the most desired couples in Bollywood and Kareena is pretty much active in movies still and is keen on going further ahead with Saif having no issues whatsoever.

What's Vindoo doing with Mrs Dhoni?

Vindoo Dara Singh's presence at the Mumbai Indians versus Chennai Super Kings match in the ongoing Indian Premier League seemed to have not gone unnoticed The actor was seen seated next to Sakshi Dhoni right through the match in Chennai. As the cameras focused on him, Vindoo too did his bit -- flashing his pearlies. For most, it certainly made for an odd sight. Not much is known of Vindoo's proximity to MS Dhoni. It came as a surprise to see the actor cheering and chatting so comfortably with Indian cricket's first lady.

Says Vindoo, `I must have received thousands of calls that night. I really didn't think that sitting next to Sakshi would get me so much attention. I don't know why the camera was focussing on me so much!` The actor was at the match at the invitation of Chennai Super Kings owner Gurunath Meyyappan. `I know him well. When I reached the box, Sakshi told me to come and sit next to her. I had met Dhoni and her last year during the IPL finale, ` explains Vindoo. He considers Sakshi as his bhabhi. `Dhoni is an ex-

tremely humble guy and Sakshi is a really sweet person. She remembered that we had met during the IPL last year. We were cheering for Chennai even thought it was just not their day. They lost the match to Mumbai Indians thanks to Kieron Pollard. I think he was made to hit not sixes but 12s.` Post the match, Vindoo met Dhoni and the other team members and then left for Tirupati. `That was the main reason why I was in Chennai as I was keen to visit the Balaji temple.`

SHOWBIZ

No idea if I will ever get married: Taylor Swift

Tom Cruise 'did not expect' spilt from Katie Holmes

"I have no idea if I'm going to get married or be single forever or have a family or just be on my own. You know, paint in a cottage by the ocean by myself," she said.

No one should dare to remake ‘Mother India’:

April 19, 2013

Tom cruise has finally spilled the beans about his break-up with Katie Holmes for the first time, after nearly a year since they announced their split, suggesting that he was not expecting it.

Vidya Balan

Remaking Mehboob Khan’s Oscar-nominated Mother India is an unachievable feat, says and if someone dared attempt this, she wouldn’t be a part of this. As a tribute to 100 years of Indian cinema, Vidya has donned Nargis’ look from the 1957 cult film Mother India and Meena Kumari’s from the 1962-classic Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam for a magazine’s special edition. However, the actress, who entered filmdom with the Parineeta remake, has no intention of working in a Mother India remake. “I don’t think anybody would even dare to remake Mother India and if someone does then I will salute him, but I will not do it. It is unachievable, really,” Vidya, 35, told reporters at the unveiling of the cover page of the magazine. “Mother India is known for Dutt’s power-packed performance as a righteous mother, who shoots down her son, played by , whom she married after the movie, for being on the wrong side of the law. One of the most expensive projects of its time, the film is said to be a remake of Khan’s 1940 movie Aurat and it was India’s first submission for the Oscras for the Best Foreign Language Film in 1958. Talking about dressing up as Nargis in the same look, Vidya said: “It’s an honour for me to have recreated those two images. One is the image of Nargis from Mother India and when you think of those iconic images from the Indian cinema over time, it definitely features in the top 3.” “The other image we recreated was Sahib, Bibi Aur Ghulam and I remember seeing that picture when I was in school and finding it extremely intoxicating,” added Vidya talking about Meena Kumari’s drunk look from the film. Vidya is currently shooting for Shaadi Ke Side Effects with while the first look of her upcoming film Ghanchakkar with Emraan Hashmi has already released.

Psy’s ‘Gentleman’ hits 100 million YouTube views SEOUL: “Gangnam Style” star Psy’s new music video crossed the 100 million views mark on YouTube Wednesday, shattering another record on the video-sharing site since its much-anticipated weekend debut. The video for “Gentleman”, the long-awaited follow-up to the South Korean singer’s global hit, has received 105.4

million hits, topping 100 million in record time since it was posted on Saturday. The previous record was set by the video of Britain’s Got Talent star Susan Boyle singing “I Dreamed A Dream” in the TV show, which received 100 million hits in just over a week in 2009.

Indian SC gives Sanjay Dutt a month to surrender NEW DELHI: The Indian Supreme Court on Wednesday gave Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt a month’s time before going back to jail for possessing arms supplied by plotters of the deadly 1993 Mumbai blasts. Dutt was sentenced to five years in jail for possession of illegal weapons in the

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long-running case linked to the 1993 Mumbai bombings. He will have to serve over three years of the sentence as he has already spent 18 months in prison. Earlier on Monday, Dutt had pleaded before the court to keep the punishment in abeyance until the governor decided on a pardon. More-

over, Dutt had appealed that he wanted some time to complete his shoots before serving the jail term. The court had previously said that Dutt should be jailed by April 18. In an emotional press conference last month, the actor had said he would not appeal against his sentence.

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APRIL 19, 2013

Noodle junki

GEORGI Readman, an 18-year-old teenager from the Island of Wight, England survives only on cheap instant noodles, because she is afraid to eat other foods. The young hairdressing student goes through about 30 miles of noodles every year. Georgi Readman got hooked on instant noodles when she was just five years old, after watching her older brother eat them, but they became her only source of nutrition after suffering a case of severe food poisoning at age eight. From that point on she couldn’t bring herself to eat any fruits or

Aries

3/21 - 4/19

American teenager speaks 23 languages 6-YEAR-old Timothy Doner from New York City has taught himself to speak 23 languages from Hebrew and Arabic to Swahili and Chinese. Timothy Doner has taught himself a host of languages, starting with Hebrew, which he learnt so he could keep up with his favourite Israeli dance music. “Some of the languages that I speak or I have studied are French, Latin, Ancient Greek, Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, Hebrew, Farso, Pashto and Hindi,” he says. His rare ability comes in most useful when he wants to eavesdrop on other people’s conversations. But just to prove ignorance is sometimes bliss, there is a downside according to the 16-year-old. “I’ve listened to people insult me in foreign languages, and I’ve actually been able to respond to them,” he says. – TG

Florida invaded by rat-sized snails

No, this is not a 1970s B-movie: South Florida really is dealing with an invasion of giant African land snails. The beastly mollusks can grow as large as rats (the biggest measure eight inches long, the Ocala Star-Banner reports), and can eat their way through plaster and stucco. More than 1,000 are already being caught per week in Miami-Dade County, and that number is set to swell when the mollusks end their underground hibernation. Since September 2011, a disturbing 117,000 have been caught. The invasion isn’t just gross, it’s also problematic, a Florida Department of Agriculture rep explains, because the snails eat “over 500 known species of plants ... pretty much anything that’s in their path and green.” And that’s not all: Their shells can blow out tires; their slime can make sidewalks slick; and they carry a lungworm that can give humans meningitis (though no US cases have been reported). They’re also tough to eradicate, since one typically produces about 1,200 eggs per year and can live up to nine years. The last invasion, in 1966, took $1 million—and about a decade—to deal with. Experts from all around the US held a symposium last week to discuss solutions. Among them: stronger bait.

The start of the week will feel about as exciting and fresh as day-old coffee, but it will give you a chance to catch up on little things you've been meaning to get to. As the week progresses, get ready to roll up your sleeves and help a friend in crisis. Coming to their rescue will bring you more satisfaction than you could have imagined. Hold off starting any new projects or signing legal documents until Thursday or Friday. Before the week's out, you'll have an uncomfortable encounter with a jealous coworker. Keep your cool and all will be fine.

Cancer 6/22 - 7/22

This week starts off well -- expect lots of positive encounters with friends and coworkers alike. You'll have many dates, dinners and appointments to schedule -- the earlier you nail down the details, the better. Keep yourself busy at work as the week continues -- it will take your mind off troubles at home. Go slowly on new projects, and ask around to see who wants to lend you a hand. You may get a lot of offers. By the end of the week, you may be indecisive about some legal documents. Hold off signing until you are sure about the details.

Libra

9/23 - 10/22 Even when there are a million details flying around in your head, you'll find a way to put it all on hold when your friends need you -- and they'll need you a lot this week. Your listening skills will get quite a workout! A romantic date Thursday or Friday will give you the attention you've been missing for a while. Expect future plans to be made that night. It's time to re-evaluate your attitude toward money and material goods when a weekend shopping spree brings change to more than just your wardrobe.

Capricorn 12/22 - 1/19

Get out your calendar and start making those holiday vacation plans -- this week is a great time to do all the research, fact-finding and bargain-hunting you'll need for a great trip. You'll get a lot of work off your plate early in the week, but by Thursday your empty inbox will once again be flooded. You may spin your wheels a bit, but by the end of the week, key decisions will get you more organized. You'll gain power at the office and prestige in the eyes of your friends.

vegetables, and only occasionally diversified her diet with small bits of potatoes and chicken. Whenever she goes out shopping, Georgi’s mom always stocks up on 11p (¢16) packs of M Savers chicken noodles, because that’s the only brand she’s sure her daughter will eat. Any other kind of noodles might have green bits in them, so she would have to sieve them first. ”I always fancy noodles and could easily eat two packets at once. I’ve even eaten them dry and uncooked before,” Readman says. She has always

Horoscope Taurus 4/20 - 5/20

The wonderful energy of your fun-filled, romantic weekend will carry over into the start of the week, bringing positive feedback and good times for your work and personal life. You deserve this happiness, so savor it. Mid-week, things might start to feel routine, so to perk things up, why not check out a Pilates class or try that new Brazilian restaurant? As the week comes to a close, one of your closest relationships will grow more intense. You'll find yourself talking about passionate issues, possibly even your thoughts on marriage. They really want to know what you think, so voice your true feelings about everything and don't worry -- they won't think anything but good thoughts.

Leo

7/23 - 8/22

You deserve some gold stars for the way you've been sticking to your budget lately! To make an even bigger dent in your debt, make it a project this week to review your finances and research some conservative investment ideas. Throughout this week, you'll enjoy a nice balance of friends, free time and romance. All your emotional needs will be met (and then some!). Going into the weekend, you'll be relaxed and ready to look at some issues more deeply. Try to base your conclusions on the actions of others, not your own ego.

Scorpio 10/23 - 11/21

You can keep a secret, right? You'd better -- someone powerful is going to trust you with some confidential information. They may be testing you, so keep your lips sealed! Tough decisions need to be made by the end of the week -- think long and hard about it. Ask others what they would do. Resist taking the easy way out. People will be increasingly drawn to you as the week continues -- they are eager to shower you with compliments. Try not to blush! By the weekend, you'll be feeling a renewed sense of power and confidence.

Aquarius 1/20 - 2/18

Starting off the week with some big business moves may not be wise -- save any deal-making for later in the week. Right now, it's more about being cautious and not taking things at face value. As the week moves on, you'll feel a growing closeness to one of your newer friends. Use your increasing confidence to meet new people and be more outgoing in situations where you are usually shy. Your career is your priority at the end of the week, when some deep feelings about ambition could set the stage for that big talk with your boss.

been a fussy eater, but ever since her food poisoning as a child, Georgi claims she goes into a panic, sweats and starts heaving whenever she tries to swallow any fruits or vegetables. Doctors have diagnosed Georgi Readman with Selective Eating Disorder, which means she can’t stand to eat anything else but the food she’s comfortable with for fear she might get sick. Unfortunately, her bizarre noodle diet has left her so malnourished that her doctor thought she had leukemia and told her she had the health of an 80-year-old woman. –OC

Week starting from April 21

Gemini 5/21 - 6/21

A family member will be in and out of your thoughts all week -- perhaps a phone call is in order to clear things up? Ignore unwanted advice from coworkers this week, especially if it's financially-related. Feel good about making your own decisions. You'll have a lot of romance toward the end of the week ... enjoy some quality one-on-one time with someone who is your partner in every sense. Share your feelings -- and find out how they really feel about you. They may finally tell you.

Virgo

8/23 - 9/22 You'll be one busy little bee this week, and you'll love every minute of it! Making order out of the chaos that surrounds you will bring a deep sense of accomplishment. The odd actions of a loved one will make more sense. Can't decide whether or not to take the plunge on that big purchase? Take some time to mull it over. If you pull out that credit card too soon, you could be sorry. After such a productive week, you may feel invincible -- but you're not, so resist setting unrealistic goals. Always take things at your own pace.

Sagittarius 11/22 - 12/21

The work week starts off a bit rough today -- a conflict with your boss makes this a bad time to ask about that overdue raise. On the bright side, your friends and coworkers have never been more in love with you! Members of your inner circle are dying to schedule time with you. Say 'yes' to every invitation, and you'll enjoy a week full of fun and laughter. Pay attention to your dreams, especially toward the end of the week. Confusing as they may be, they'll give you a glimpse into your subconscious that could spark something big.

Pisces 2/19 - 3/20

Helping those you love can be a tricky thing -- how do you offer good advice without being too critical? As the week progresses, keep that in mind when people come to you for your feedback. You don't always have to know everything inside and out to offer your opinion, so don't let that stop you. Take a day at the end of the week to clean out your closets and purge yourself of things you no longer use. If a headstrong friend pushes you to get involved in something you're not sure about, tell them 'no' -- and don't back down.

ATTRACTIONS Azul, Lure of the Sea (Beluga Stadium)

This show features professional high divers, aerialists, and synchronized swimmers performing with Pacific white-sided dolphins and Beluga whales.

Attractions Roller coasters and thrill rides The Great White: The park's first coaster, a Bolliger & Mabillard inverted roller coaster that debuted in 1997. Top speed of 50 mph (80 km/h). Lift height is 108.2 ft. Total track = 2,562 ft. Shamu Express Steel Eel: Advertised as "the first and only hypercoaster in Texas," it reaches speeds close to 70 mph (110 km/h). Journey to Atlantis: The first ride of its kind in North America, it debuted in 2007. Rio Loco: A river rapids ride that opened in 1991. The Texas Splashdown: Opened in 1991, permanently closed on May 13, 2011. Rides: Grover's Roundup (carousel) Abby Cadabby's Rocking Wave Big Bird's Spinning Reef (mini Ferris wheel)

Sesame Street Bay of Play (kiddie rides)

Sesame Street's Bay of Play (opened in March 2011) is an interactive children play area based on the long-running television series Sesame Street. The Shamu Express kiddie coaster remains the only unchanged attraction from the old Happy Harbor.

SeaWorld San Antonio SeaWorld San Antonio (formerly SeaWorld of Texas) is a 250-acre (100 ha) marine mammal park, oceanarium, and animal theme park, located in the Westover Hills District of San Antonio, Texas. It is the largest of the three parks in the SeaWorld chain owned by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, a division of The Blackstone Group, and the world's largest marine-life theme park. History SeaWorld of Texas was developed by Harcourt, Brace, and Jovanovich (now Houghton Mifflin Harcourt). Built for $170 million, it opened on Memorial Day weekend in 1988 and welcomed 75,000 people during the grand opening.[4] It had 3.3 million visitors in its first 12 months of operation, placing it among the Top 10 attractions in Texas. At the time of the park's debut, it was billed as "the largest educational, marine-life theme park in the world." In 1989, Harcourt, Brace, and Jovanovich (heavy in debt and fighting a hostile takeover) sold its SeaWorld and Boardwalk and Baseball theme parks to Anheuser-Busch, Inc. [5] Plans to build a Boardwalk and Baseball park adjacent to SeaWorld of Texas were immediately abandoned. On 26 November 1988, Kayla (stage named "Baby Shamu") was the first killer whale born at SeaWorld San Antonio. Under Anheuser-Busch ownership, SeaWorld San Antonio closed less popular attractions such as the Texas Walk, the U.S. Map Plaza, and the Garden of Flags and added its popular Budweiser Clydesdales to the park. In 2008, Anheuser-Busch merged with InBev; soon after, the newly merged company sold the SeaWorld parks to The Blackstone Group.

April 19, 2013

Shamu Express (mini roller coaster) Elmo's Dolphin Dive (mini drop unit) Activities: Splish 'n' Splash, (water play area), Little Bird's Splash (small children's water play area), Tot's Ahoy (small children's playground), Net Climb, Playground, Shows One Ocean (Shamu Stadium): The newest Shamu show featuring the park's killer whales and their trainers. The Cannery Row Caper (Seal and Sea Lion Stadium): A comical "Who done it?" featuring California sea lions Clyde and Seamore, who attempt to unravel the mystery of disappearing fish in a nearby cannery. This show also features walruses and Asian small clawed otters. Cool Vibrations (Ski Stadium): A live-action boat and water-skiing stunt show that runs throughout the park's summer months; formerly called Rockin' Ski Party prior to the park's 2009 season. Lights, Camera, Imagination! 4-D (SeaStar Theatre): Combines the latest 4-D special effects technology with multi-sensory theater effects. Guests will experience sprays of water and other surprises during their experience with Sesame Street.

Source:Wikipedia

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SPORTS Batting needs more focus than bowling: Zaheer

Nadal beats Matosevic in Monte Carlo

Former Pakistan captain Zaheer Abbas believes the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) must have hired a batting coach instead of bringing in former captain Wasim Akram for supervising a camp for fast bowlers.

Rafael Nadal extended his winning streak at the Monte Carlo Masters to 43 matches, beating Marinko Matosevic 6-1, 6-2 in the second round. The eight-time defending champion nearly trailed 3-0 in the second set, but he saved break points before taking control of the match.

Pakistan - India

ICC Champions Trophy match sold out within minutes

Tickets for the final edition of the ICC Champions Trophy have gone on sale and there are no prizes for guessing the most anticipated battle of the tournament: Pakistan v India, June 15. According to the ICC, demand for tickets for the Champions Trophy has been exceptionally high, with tickets selling quickly following the official release of further tickets in a planned second phase of sales. “We’ve been staggered by the inter-

est shown by today’s ticket sales,” said Tournament Director Steve Elworthy, adding: “The allocation of tickets for India v Pakistan sold out in under thirty minutes, with tickets released for other matches, including the final, also selling-out. We’d like to thank everyone who attempted to buy tickets for these games and sympathise with those who were unsuccessful but owing to the high demand, the tickets that were released today sold very quickly.

“This just goes to show the growing excitement and real passion cricket fans have for this tournament, one in which they will have the chance to see live the world’s top 50-over cricketers playing in England and Wales this June.” Additional tickets for all 15 matches, including coveted games such as India v Pakistan, England v Australia and the final went on sale this morning via the official ICC ticket website.

The ICC Champions Trophy 2013, featuring Australia, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka and West Indies, will be played across three world-class venues – Cardiff Wales Stadium, Edgbaston and The Oval – over 18 days from 6-23 June. Pakistan’s fixtures: June 7 – Pakistan v West Indies June 10 – Pakistan v South Africa June 15 – Pakistan v India

Sehwag, Harbhajan, Zaheer overlooked for Champions Trophy India left out opener Virender Sehwag, off-spinner Harbhajan Singh and pace bowler Zaheer Khan on Saturday from their provisional squad of 30 players for the Champions Trophy in June.

Hafeez praises Misbah’s leadership qualities

Pakistan’s T20 captain, Muhammad Hafeez has showered words of praise on his Test and one-day captain Misbah-ul-Haq, describing him as an "honest" person and a "calm and composed" leader.