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RESORT
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forget being grateful to God for his favors but go on complaining about unpleasant things! If we accept both sides of the coin, we can be free from the habit of brooding over our past. Just like the past, for many people the worry of future kills the charm of their present life.
Friends
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t is great pleasure to communicate with you again through Desipages. We have just celebrated Diwali & Thanksgiving and soon there will be celebration of Christmas around the world. All over the world, in every culture, in every society, there are a few days in the year, for celebrations. These days really help us to forget memories of the past miseries & losses and worries and tensions of future. They take us out of our routine life. However, this leads us to think, if we can forget misery for one day, why can’t we do this every day? Why can’t turn each day into celebration? Osho once said: “Life should be a continual celebration, a festival of lights the whole year round. Only then can you grow up, you can blossom. The fireworks and lights outside cannot make you rejoice unless there is continuity of lights, songs, joys.in your inner world too” This sounds true .But is this possible? Yes, it is possible if we change our mental attitude. It is possible if we can drop the “Past” and “Future” and live in the “moment”? Truly speaking, past and future tense are not part of time. Time always runs in present. Past lives are only in memory and future lives in imagination. No one can live in past or future. You must always live in “Now” How can we drop past? Why does past keep bothering us? It is because we have not accepted the past events in totality. It bothers us, because we keep asking questions like “why this happened to me? “Why my beloved left me, despite my true love? Why my mom left me so early? Why God gave me birth in a poor family? I never smoke or drink, still why did I get cancer? Unfortunately, we may not get answers to many of such questions. But this complain cannot resolve anything, except creating a constant pinch in one’s mind. And it cannot change what has already happened. So why these questions? There are many things in life which have no answer to “Why”. Wise people would say, accept this as facts of life. Take life as a game. Life keeps changing all the time.
I don’t say do not think about future. Think and plan. Put down your plan on a paper if you want and then forget it. Worry will only reduce your strength. And future is unseen. It is so uncertain that things you are worrying about may not ever happen. Instead, some very nice things could happen, quite contrary to your worry. Questions like -Competition has come up; will my business suffer? Exam is near, will I fail? My child is going for study abroad, will he be able to make it all alone? My H1 visa is about to expire, will I be deported? I am living on the10th floor. Will earthquake hit my apartment? There could be thousand and one such questions and worries about future. I don’t say these questions are wrong. But worrying is constant thinking? How can you change anything by just thinking? In the first place, sit down and think how true is your worry? What is the likelihood of happening of things which you worry about? If you think it is likely to happen then work out possible solutions about the issue with full concentration. Take advice of others and take required actions. Then forget it. Do not continue focusing on these issues. And if you are still afraid, pray to god for success, if you believe in God. And then leave it to him and sleep peacefully. It is now his botheration. Even God does not worry about future. He knows about the possible dangers of destruction due to pollution, exhaustion of natural resources, destruction of forests, piling of atomic bombs and still he goes on sending new children on earth. Do you think he is worried? He trusts you and your intelligence. Why don’t you trust him and his intelligence? Stop worrying for future and brooding about the past. If you start living in present, each moment becomes a celebration. It will become song, a true celebration. True celebration cannot be according to the calendar. That on the first of January you will celebrate. Is it not strange that the whole year you are miserable and suddenly at one second past 12 on 31st December of the year you come out of all your miseries and start dancing with joy? Either, the misery is false, or celebration of 31st December night is false; both cannot be true. Until we learn art of living in the present, we are not truly celebrating New Year. II wish you a happy new year and pray to God, that he gives you the capacity to live moment to moment and make your life blissful, peaceful and loving. Dear friends, this is my wish for you: In the coming year of your life, may you get many friends that you never feel lonely. Good health that you never need to lose any opportunity to enjoy. So much love that your heart does not remain thirsty. So much inner light, that death cannot take away life from you!
We never ask why when good things happen to us. We
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RANI MUKERJI Chinese audience has phenomenal love, respect for Indian actors
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ani Mukerji says she knew that Indian films were popular in China but it was still a surprise to witness the love and respect the audiences have for Bollywood stars when she visited the country to promote Hichki. In Hichki, Rani played the role of a teacher who suffers from Tourette syndrome, a neurological disorder that causes involuntary vocalizations. The film, which released in India in March this year, is currently doing well in theatres in China and the actor was on a multi-city tour to promote the movie there. The film has earned over Rs 150 crore at the Chinese box office. Rani said it was phenomenal to see people connect to the story the way an Indian audience would do.
They understood each and every emotion of the film. They knew about the film, they had seen the film so there was a lot of positivity everywhere I went. It was surprising because I knew that Indian films are popular but to what degree, I found it when I went there,” Rani said.
but it all went really well. I have more focus today than before because now I want to complete my work to the best of my ability and go back home immediately.
The actor said she decided to be a part of the promotions in China because she wanted to witness the love first hand and it has been an enriching experience for her.
“Our cultures and our way of life is very similar. Indians and Chinese are very similar in terms of family life and in the way they live. So, a lot of things are common and I guess that’s what really connects our stories to them because it feels very close to home. The language of cinema and emotions is universal. When you make a film, which is about human emotions, it kind of clicks in any part of the world and I guess Hichki doing that consolidates the fact. It makes you believe in good content, good cinema and also makes you believe that if you back a project which has heart and soul, there will always be an audience somewhere who will appreciate it,
“Interacting with the audiences and Chinese people has made the entire travel so much more inspiring for me. It was just amazing and surprising at the same time because the kind of love they have for an Indian actor and the kind of respect they give you is phenomenal,” she added. Rani said Hichki has been a special film for her because it was her first film after the birth of her daughter, Adira. “It was a difficult time for me since it was my first film after motherhood, so I was really anxious leaving my daughter behind and going to shoot
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“Also, there was a lot of goodness attached to the whole process of filmmaking. It’s really nice to be around people who work towards a common goal,” she said. The actor believes Indian films do well in China because the two neighbours share a lot of cultural similarities.
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VARUN DHAWAN
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t seems like another name will very soon add to the list of Bollywood celebrities getting married soon. Varun Dhawan has for the first time confirmed his relationship with his childhood sweetheart Natasha Dalal.
WHAT VARUN DHAWAN HAS TO SAY ABOUT RUMORS OF AN UPCOMING WEDDING WITH NATASHA DALAL
The couple has been spotted numerous times together and their relationship was an open secret. Varun never shied away from posing with his girlfriend in front of cameras The actor came up front to admit that the lovely lady in question has been a great influence in his personal and professional life he, however, didn’t seem to deny or confirm his relationship status. In a bid to keep questions about his marriage at bay, the actor, who is currently on a promotional tour, said he will surely let everyone know when he decides to tie the knot and settle down. This comes as something pleasant to look forward to, considering the current trend of celebs going under the radar and getting married in secret.
Varun spilled the beans about his relationship with Natasha on ‘Koffee with Karan’ He revealed on the show that he plans to marry Natasha. On being asked by Karan Johar that when he will tie the knot, the ‘Sui Dhaaga’ actor said that he is not competing with any other celebrity couple as of right now.
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PRIYANKA
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onsidered one of the most powerful women in the world today, India’s very own Priyanka Chopra directed her influence in making the world a better place and finds herself amongst the “25 Women Changing the World” list by People Magazine. International icon Priyanka Chopra joins the new wave of inspiring activists along with Sophia bush, Sarah Ullman-Film maker, Lena White (Advocate for LGBT community), all of whom have made a difference by passionately pursuing the causes they believe in. Having grown up in a household with doctor parents who served in the Indian army, Priyanka won the Miss World title and decided to make a difference on a global scale at the tender age of 18. For 12 years, Priyanka has worked tirelessly with UNICEF as a global Goodwill Ambassador, visiting places in need like Zimbabwe and India’s Mumbai slums. “The field trips are the most special, because you meet incredible kids and survivors. That has been one of my joyous moments, being able to help advocate children’s rights and
PRIYANKA CHOPRA IS ONE OF THE 25 WOMEN CHANGING THE WORLD! children’s welfare around the world. That moved me so much in being able to go to places where these kids have no voice or no one listening to them, and actually shedding light on that.” On the work front, Priyanka Chopra will be next seen in
CHENNAI EXPRESS (2013) 226.70 CR
The film featured Deepika Padukone, who played the love interest of SRK for the second time in her career. The script evolved around SRK who falls in love with the sister of a Tamil local goon. What unfolds in the quest of attaining his true love makes up the matter of the movie. It is spiced up with some Rohit Shetty styled action and incredible accent inherited by Deepika.
KUCH KUCH HOTA HAI (1998) Karan Johar’s directorial debut film featured the hot-favorite couple of Kajol and SRK for the fourth time and had Rani Mukherji and Sana Sayeed in a supporting role. The film portrays a love triangle, which is set to be divided into two different ages. The first half covers the college life, and the second half covers the life after few years. Sana Saeed’s role is instrumental in bringing life to the movie. It is a record that the movie managed to sweep all the Filmfare awards given to honor the actors.
Hollywood movie, Isn’t It Romantic Starring Rebel Wilson, Liam Hemsworth and Adam Devine. The film is set for Valentine’s Day release next year. She is also starring in The Sky Is Pink with Farhan Akhtar and Zaira Wasim.
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SHAH RUKH KHANS BLOCKBUSTERS
HAPPY NEW YEAR (2014) 205 CR The fantastic story plot, amazing star cast and melodious music declared the movie a super hit in the first week itself. In the movie a bunch of losers transform themselves into a team that wins over the hearts of the people in the city and across the world, all as part of their quest to pull off the biggest diamond heist ever seen.
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AAMIR KHAN WHEN AAMIR KHAN MADE FUN OF HIS THUGS OF HINDOSTAN CO-STAR AMITABH BACHCHAN 53-year-old further said, “These passport size pictures anyways look a little bad. And as Amit ji started climbing the ladders of success, we would discuss how we made fun of him.” If you thought Aamir would have kept this a secret from Big B, you are mistaken. The actor shared with a smile, “Once on the shoot, I rust Aamir Khan to share shared the story with sir. He was most amused and laughed at it.” some interesting anecdotes about his co-stars while giving Talking about working with Amitabh Bachchan, Aamir Khan said, interviews. Ahead of his Diwali “It was really amazing. We had planned on working together release Thugs of Hindostan, the actor twice before but it didn’t work out. I was very excited and nervous interacted with a group of journalists at about working with him. Amit ji is a very warm and generous his posh residence in Mumbai. Apart person. He makes you comfortable and is very easy to work with. from sharing that he took tips from Shah He is so well behaved that you don’t feel intimidated. However, Rukh Khan on how to behave in front of he has got a very dry sense of humor. You don’t know whether he Amitabh Bachchan, the Dangal actor is joking or not. It takes time to understand that.” also shared that he had laughed at When a journalist asked if he took up the film only because of Bachchan’s picture years ago as a kid. Bachchan, the Sarfarosh actor said, “No, that’s not how I work. I Aamir shared, “I remember as a kid, a have to be attached to the script first. My character and dialogues film magazine carried a double spread were great. Everything was very detailed and well-written, so I page filled with passport size photos of had to take it up.”
T
people who wanted to become actors. Once me and my siblings, along with the servants, opened the page and laughed at all the pictures. We were like, ‘yeh hero banenge’. And you guys won’t believe, one of the photos was of Amitabh Bachchan. I clearly remember that we made fun of his photograph the most.” As the room roared in laughter, the 2018
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Aamir Khan also shared the feedback he received from Amitabh Bachchan for his performance in Thugs of Hindostan. “He recently watched the film and called me. We spoke for close to 30 minutes. He shared that according to him, it was my best performance. Amit ji really liked my accent and he said that I had the perfect pitch. He also told me that he would see the film, again and again, only to see my performance. I must admit, I was truly thrilled hearing it,” shared the National Award-winning actor.
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F
ilmmaker Karan Johar, who is known for working with several renowned celebrities and making a career of aspiring actors, said it was his dream to direct late female superstar Sridevi, which remained unfulfilled. “I’m her huge fan. When she (Sridevi) passed away this year, I was like this is not fair. I used to say she is the one actor I really want to direct, and I would have done something with her in my writing and directorial existence. I just love her. She is one actor who updated her craft,” said Johar Johar did not get a chance to direct
KARAN JOHAR
Always Wanted To Direct Sridevi the ‘hawa hawai’ girl of Bollywood, but he launched her daughter Janhvi Kapoor in Dhadak. Talking about Sridevi’s acting, Karan said he was blown away by her performance in English Vinglish “…She was from the 80s and 90s but when she acted in English Vinglish and even in many parts of Mom, I feel like she has watched other actors, she has imbibed a certain tonality. And a lot of actors from that
generation don’t do that. You know they get stuck in that 90s acting. Even though she was detached from cinema since Judai which was in 1997, she came back many moons later in English Vinglish in 2012 and I was blown away by her. And I really feel like we lost a special actor. I really wish I could have directed her,” Karan sighed. Sridevi died aged 54 in February by accidentally drowning in a bathtub in a Dubai hotel, leaving the film industry, her family and legions of fans in a state of shock.
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LATA MANGESHKAR
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o stranger to adoration and idealization, Asia’s most accomplished playback singer Lata Mangeshkar has just been honored by a fan in Argentina named Santiago Lopez who has named a variety of rose after the singer. The singer-extraordinaire is grateful to such admirers who have hero-worshipped her for 70 years. “It’s the love of the people that keeps an artiste going,” asserts Lataji. “Nahin toh hum kab ke peeche reh jaate (otherwise I’d have been left behind long ago). Naming such a beautiful flower after me shows this gentleman’s admiration for my songs. I couldn’t ask for more,” says Lataji, recalling innumerable instances of lingering fan-worship. “People who love my voice have gone to heart breaking lengths to show me their love. There are people who travel from “It’s the love of the people across India hoping to meet me. Sab Ishwar ki krupa hai (all by the Grace of that keeps an artiste going,” God),” says Lataji. And which is the greatest honor she says Lata Mangeshkar on has ever received? “It has to be fan adulation the Bharat Ratna. That one award defines the love of all Indians for me and my singing.”
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TAXES FOR EXPAT CHALLENGES OR OPPORTUNITIES?
There are opportunities where US resident staying in Dubai or other tax-free country could lawfully pay zero taxes. VAISHALI THAKKAR CEO PERFECT TAX & FINANCE A) INTRODUTCION Someone asked a question to a tax planner. What is the best place to manage economic life in this world? Planner replied that the best thing is to have income earned in US dollars but pay taxes of Dubai. Well, this may sound impossible for most of us living in USA. How income paid by US company, be taxed at rate of Dubai? But this becomes true for some EXPATS, meaning US citizens or residents who are employed by US entities but are posted in Dubai or any other low tax countries. Most of us think that US taxes worldwide income of its citizens and residents, so staying in tax free countries does not bring any special benefits. But there are opportunities where US resident staying in Dubai or other tax-free country could lawfully pay zero taxes. I will explain this in detail in this article B) TAX BENEFITS FOR EXPATS B.1) Earned Income Exclusion 2018
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To claim the foreign earned income exclusion, you must meet all three of the following requirements: 1. Your tax home must be in a foreign country 2. You must have foreign earned income 3. You must be one of the following: a) A U.S. resident alien who is a citizen or national of a country with which the United States has an income tax treaty in effect, and who is a bona fide resident of a foreign country or countries for an uninterrupted period that includes an entire tax year. b) A U.S. citizen or a U.S. resident alien who is physically present in a foreign country or countries for at least 330 full days during any period of 12 consecutive months. There are two of the factors to be considered in determining whether you pass the bona fide residence test: i) the length of your stay ii) and the nature of your job. You need to remember that you do not automatically acquire bona fide resident status just by living in a foreign country or countries for one year and your bona fide residence is not necessarily the same as your domicile. If you made a statement to local authorities in your residence country that you are not a resident of that country, and they determine you are not subject to their income tax laws as a resident, you can’t be considered a bona fide resident.
Another test is called the Physical Presence Test and it’s applicable if you are physically present in a foreign country or countries for 330 full days during a period of 12 consecutive months. However, the 330 qualifying days don’t have to be consecutive. This test is based only on how long you stay in a foreign country or countries. It does not depend on the kind of residence that you establish, your intentions to return to the United States or the nature and purpose of your stay abroad. It means that if you are on vacation, you can count those days to pass the physical presence test. However, if you are in a foreign country in violation of U.S. law, then you will not be treated as physically present there and the income that you earn from sources within such a country will not qualify as foreign earned income.
Tax credits allow you to lower the tax due after your taxable income has been fully calculated. Your tax credit may include what you have already paid to your resident country. B.3) ‘Foreign Tax Credit’ The foreign tax credit is a non-refundable tax credit for income taxes paid to a foreign government because of foreign income tax withholdings. The foreign tax credit is available to anyone who either works in a foreign country or has investment income or any other type of income from a foreign source. The foreign tax credit is a tax break provided by the government to reduce the tax liability of certain taxpayers. A tax credit is applied to the amount of tax owed by the taxpayer after all deductions are made from his or her taxable income, and it reduces the total tax bill of an individual dollar to dollar. If you choose to exclude either foreign earned income or foreign housing costs, you cannot take a foreign tax credit for taxes on income you can exclude. If you do take the credit, one or both choices may be considered revoked. File Form 1116, Foreign Tax Credit, to claim the foreign tax credit if you are an individual, estate or trust, and you paid or accrued certain foreign taxes to a foreign country or U.S. possession. Corporations file Form 1118, Foreign Tax Credit—Corporations, to claim a foreign tax credit.
There are four rules that you should know when figuring out the 12-month period: B.4) Child Tax credit i) Your 12-month period can begin with any day of the month. It ends the day before the same calendar day, 12 months later. ii) Your 12-month period must be made up of consecutive months. Any 12-month period can be used if the 330 days in a foreign country fall within that period. iii) You do not have to begin your 12-month period with your first full day in a foreign country or end it with the day you leave. You can choose the 12-month period that gives you the greatest exclusion. iv) In determining whether the 12-month period falls within a longer stay in the country, these 12-month periods can overlap one another. B.2) Foreign Deduction
Housing
Exclusion
Under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) the following new child tax credit rules will take place in 2018: * The Child Tax Credit under 2018 tax reform is worth up to $2,000 per qualifying child. The age cut-off remains at 17 (the child must be under 17 at the end of the year for taxpayers to claim the credit). * The refundable portion of the credit is limited to $1,400. This amount will be adjusted for inflation after 2018. * The earned income threshold for the refundable credit is lowered to $2,500. * The beginning credit phaseout for the child tax credit increases in 2018 to $200,000 ($400,000 for joint filers). The phaseout also applies to the new $500 credit for other dependents. * The child must have a valid SSN to qualify for the $2,000 Child Tax Credit. C) IMPORTANT RESPONSIBLIITIES OF EXPAT
Now there are certain important obligation which are often missed by Expat, who think that due to their stay abroad they are exempt from these obligations. Let us note or them carefully. B .1) Pay Self-employment (SE) taxes:
You need to be either a salaried employee, a wage earner or a selfemployed individual to qualify for this deduction. It’s in an addition to FEIE and increases the exempted income by the amount of your qualified housing expenses. Depending on the country of your residence, the allowable deductions for the foreign housing will vary and are subject to limitations.
As of 2018, the rate for Self-Employment Tax is 15.3%. It consists of two parts:
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If you are a self-employed U.S. citizen or resident, the rules for paying self-employment tax are generally the same if you live abroad. The self-employment tax is a social security and Medicare tax on net earnings from self-employment. It applies no matter where the work is performed in the world. If your business has generated a loss and your income is less than $400, then you won’t owe any self-employment tax. You must take all your self-employment income into account when figuring out your net earnings from self-employment.
12.4% for Social security and 2.9% for Medicare. The wage base limit for 2018 is $128,400, meaning the most you’d pay for the Social Security portion of selfemployment tax this year is 12.4% of $128,400, or $15,921. The U.S. has reached an agreement with different countries, called a Social Security Totalization Agreement and if you happen to live in any of those countries, then you do not need to pay this tax. Social Security is a tax that should be paid by employees of all-American employers, regardless of their location. C.1.1) Special tip to avoid SE Taxes while working abroad: One of the ways to minimize your tax burden is to establish your business as a foreign corporation (under the laws of any other country) and make yourself an employee of the corporation. Since you will no longer be self-employed, the wages you earn will not be subject to Social Security. However, you will need to file Form 5471 to report the interest in your foreign corporation for each year it continues to be true. Failing to contribute to your Social Security will impact your future benefits at retirement and so you will need to decide what’s more important for you in the long-term. C.2) Do not miss tax filing: It doesn’t matter where you’re working, if you’re a US citizen or a resident alien, the IRS says you need to file tax returns in USA by due date. If you don’t owe US taxes on your foreign income (more on that next), the IRS extends the deadline automatically by two months — giving you until June 15th to file. You can also apply for additional extensions through October 15, though you may owe interest on your unpaid taxes. C.3) Do not miss Foreign Compliance: C.3.1) FBAR FBAR is report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR) required to be filed with the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network by all Americans who hold assets in foreign countries. Failure can attract penalties as high as $100,000 or 50 percent of the account balance. This filing is often overlooked by Expats. By law, you must file FinCEN Form 114 (Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts, or “FBAR”) if A. You’re a U.S. citizen or resident taxpayer or domestic business entity and 2018
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B. You own, control, or have signature authority over foreign bank and financial accounts with a combined value over $10,000 Even EXPATs are required to file an FBAR if they are: * A U.S. citizen or green card holder living abroad * Using personal or business foreign accounts for everyday activities The reporting requirement covers many types of foreign accounts maintained outside of the United States, including: * Bank accounts * Securities accounts * Certain foreign retirement arrangements Generally, you have until April 15 to submit the FBAR, but if you fail to make it, you’re eligible for an automatic extension until Oct. 15. C.3.2) FATCA Form 8938 If you live within the U.S. the entire tax year, you must file Form 8938 if the value of your reportable foreign assets exceeds either of these levels: * More than $50,000 (or $100,000 if married filing jointly) at the end of the year, or * More than $75,000 (or $150,000 if married filing jointly) at any time in the year Expats living abroad have an increased reporting threshold. You don’t need to complete this form unless your foreign assets exceed either: * $200,000 (or $400,000 if married filing jointly) at the end of the year, or * $300,000 (or $600,000 if married filing jointly) at any time during the year As Form 8938 is filed with your U.S. income tax return, due dates applicable to Form 1040 apply. Automatic extensions for expats living abroad or additional extensions to October 15 can provide more time to collect needed information from foreign financial institutions and determine your filing requirements. There are also several other forms for foreign compliance required to be filed in different situations like Form 5471,5472, 3520, 8865, 926 etc., which could invoke heavy penalties in cause of failure. But these are not common for general public so not discussed here. You can set up personal meeting with tax advisors of Perfect Tax for detailed understanding. Perfect Tax has package deal of total Foreign compliance service with no penalty guarantee at reasonable rate for all those who stay abroad or who have operations or entities abroad. You may send email to info@perfecttax.com or call 1-888-971-0829 for more info.
Writer of this Article, Vaishali Thakkar is The Tax Advisor and CEO of Perfect Tax.
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ALIA BHATT:
the has been in o h w , tt a to h B lia now, wishes rs a e y 6 r fo dan industry nts Soni Raz re a p r e h h it s is work w . The actres lm fi a in tt a h B eing and Mahesh 2 which is b k a d a S in g in atalready starr tt. Alia Bhatt a h B h s e h a f Your’s Truo helmed by M e c n re fe n ress co ni Razdan. o tended the p S m o m r e rring h ly, a film sta her parents, Would be a blast on set if I work with parents h it w g in rk ut wo aid. Talking abo rk together in o w s u reen,” Alia s c f s o e re th e If W “ e set. she said, e film. a blast on th e b ld u cameo in th We o . a s w e s it n a li , h s tt lm r’ a fi e h a ee h oth Mahesh B aughter to s atching eac n d a d if e it o s c x , e s rs n to a would be sn Alia was e film. “I wa sionate ac s m a a s p s e ry a th e it v in to re rents mp in three a both her pa at I almost es, we will ju th , m o .” lm c ll fi e y e it w n th s u a rt d in thoppo d time so engrosse ther and mo ct and spen fa a y to m t e re g a l y il e we w n forgot that th ters and the c ra ia d h c d n s a a n them azda lly, rring Soni R denly. Usua t er. I saw d ta a u s s d ly e e n ru m e T n re s o c r’ s p You is being it dawned u her, here he njoy Nag is g ti a s n S e ti y c F b e ir m d il d F te n c re g and s bee tional r’s he ha the beginnin lkata Interna e t o s th K ju o th m is 4 y it 2 l m e e th ding ng. I fe e I am atten be coming o er actin m ti th ly t b o s a e ir b F th “ ro s p l. a a w v it ould nce, till now e- they w press confere as strange as well as sp for long”. n e re c s w It . g the is way around father sharin d n a r h Bhatt, who e s th e h o a m M g r in e e k e a m cial s ork, Veteran film aughter’s w d d n a e if w nproud of his olkata’s Na K in t n e m o e of said, “This m e main venu th – x le p m very dan (film co mily itself is fa y m h it w n’t get that the festival) id d e if w y m e as y has sacred for m er that Sanja re a c r e h in moment star (refer’s y a d to o ls da given her an pport. This is u s to re e h is a ring to Alia) ork front, Ali w e th n O .” lank like a dream d drama Ka o ri e p n e e s nd Bhatt will be 19 release a 0 2 l ri p A r fo dewhich is set release on In l il w h ic h w Brahmastra ay next year. pendence D
A
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SONALI BENDRE
SONALI BENDRE PENS EMOTIONAL NOTE FOR HUSBAND ON WEDDING ANNIVERSARY, SAYS THEY’RE FIGHTING CANCER COLLECTIVELY
A
ctor Sonali Bendre is currently undergoing treatment for cancer in New York and standing with her as her pillar of support is husband Goldie Behl. The Hum Saath Saath Hain actor posted an emotional note for her husband on their 16th wedding anniversary, calling him “Husband. Companion. Best friend. My rock.” Sonali also shared a few photos with her husband that showed their journey together. While the first was their wedding photo, she also posted a photo from New York showing how their bond has matured.
Sonali was diagnosed with cancer a few months ago and has been in New York for treatment. Many celebs have visited the actor to boost her spirit. She had earlier shared that her eyesight was becoming weak due to chemotherapy. However, she later assured fans that all is well. Though she has lost her In the note for Goldie, Sonali wrote, “As soon I began hair to the chemotherapy sessions, she has emerged to write this... I knew instantly that I wouldn’t be able to as an inspiration for her thousands of fans who put down in words all the emotions and thoughts that appreciate her for her strength and positive attitude. were running through my head. Husband. Companion. Best friend. My rock. Marriage is standing by each other, through thick and thin, in sickness and in health… and God knows, how we’ve been through that this year. What not many people realize is that cancer is not just an individual battle… it’s something that a family collectively goes through. I was also able to go on this journey, knowing that you’d juggle all your responsibilities, and take on some more and hold fort back home… all this while shuttling between two continents. Thank you for being my source of strength, love and joy, for being with me every single step of the way... thank you is such an understatement for how I feel. What do I say about someone who is a part of you, who is yours and nothing and nobody else matters?
Happy Anniversary Goldie!” 2018
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BRINGING THE COMMUNITY TOGETHER WHERE YOUR VOICE MATTERS 1110 AM
104.9 FM
THE COLLABORATION OF FUNASIA & RADIO AZAD
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hen things are meant to be; they are said to be destined. They fit like a glove to your fingers. That is how the above two taglines join to make complete sense. The two taglines of Funasia and Radio Azad. ‘Bringing the community together, where your voice matters.’
most exciting interview, and the room was filled with a positive energy which echoed triumph. It was an afternoon of reflections with the trio- The group CEO of Perfect Group, Sam Thakkar, CMO of Perfect Group Vaishali Thakkar and the founder/ President of Radio Azad- Azad himself. All the three looked amazing, and their smiles and charm was contagious. I know the community is in for a great treat and it is only going to get better from here. A REFLECTION IN THEIR OWN VOICES The Journey Sam’s quest for expansion has been unstoppable. So, my first question for him was. Q: Sam you were not born with a golden spoon, but you have made all this happen. From an employee in the corporate world, to Perfect Tax, to real estate, and now Funasia? How has the journey been so far?
Funasia has believed in bringing the entire south Asian community together, for more than 15 years through the field of entertainment. They have strived to develop this strong unity through their popular radio stations 104.9 FM and 1110 AM, through theatres, banquets and through community events. At the same time, Radio Azad, since its inception in 2010 has given importance to people’s voices. They have heard different points of view and talked to diverse people in their interactive topic-based shows keeping the listeners actively engaged through their erstwhile 870AM radio frequency, which now is 1110 AM. No one had ever imagined Funasia and Radio Azad could come together under the same umbrella. It happened, and we have embraced this change with open arms. We have seen the excitement in the community about this collaboration. It has been the current topic of discussion in Dallas. The social circles, the community, the religious institutions, businesses dominated by South Asian community are talking about it and are inquisitive about this alliance. And why not? It is one of the major events that has taken place in 2018. I had the privilege of talking to these great visionaries who have the strength to move mountains, reflecting their lives. I got it straight from the horse’s mouth. Their journey to this day and their vision for this collaboration. It was the 2018
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Sam: Since my journey from day 1 when I landed in the US, I have been taught to dream big. Over the period of years, I have taken every opportunity and every challenge positively in my life and have worked hard for it. Luckily, I have also been surrounded by a great team and great people. My wife Vaishali has been my strong support. And now Azad joins the gang. Over the years a continuous quest and strive to do better has taken us to where we are today.
Vaishali on the other hand works very closely to Sam making all those dreams take shape and brings them to
From the left: Sam Thakkar, Vaishali Thakkar & Azad
BRINGING THE COMMUNITY TOGETHER WHERE YOUR VOICE MATTERS 1110 AM
104.9 FM
reality. She makes things happen. I have never seen someone so popular with their employees as Vaishali. She has people’s skill. And she is also a super mom. They have two gorgeous girls and Vaishali makes sure they have home cooked meals every single day. Q: How do you manage all this Vaishali? The role of a CMO and the home front. Yes, a super woman, but the calmness on your face is so intriguing. You keep it all together. Vaishali: It has been a great journey so far and I am enjoying it. I never like to sit idle without work. For a woman it is tough, but if you have desires to accomplish something, you give your best. This is exactly what I am doing. It has been a
believed in a few things. That, I am going to travel the whole world and achieve many things. That was ingrained in me so much that everything I have ever dreamed of has come true. Vaishali & Sam are very accomplished people, in a lot of fields in life. I keep working on what I believe in. My most precious accomplishment is Radio Azad. I am proud of the concept of Radio Azad and the way we are moving ahead slowly and gradually. Vision
Q:Sam,I had witnessed when you bought Funasia and became the new owners. I had always known you as the Perfect Tax owners, with no media experience. That is
WE RECOGNISED THAT THERE WAS NOT A SINGLE MEDIA CONNECTING ALL THE STREAMS TOGETHER. DIGITAL, BROADCAST, TV, MAGAZINE & VIDEO ON DEMAND how the community knows you as well. But, no one has ever imagined South Asian entertainment in America like you have. What made you get into media? Sam: Media is a very strong medium to reach and touch a lot of people. When this opportunity came up, I felt it is an exciting medium to connect with the large community From the left: Sam Thakkar, Vaishali Thakkar, Ayesha & Azad of South Asians. At that time, when this business was ofgreat journey with kids, with work, with the business. Family fered in the market for sale we brainstormed, on what the support is very important, and Sam and my kids are very gen- media could be in future. We recognized that there was erous to help in every way possible. I feel, if the instincts are not a single media connecting all the streams together. By positive and one is goal driven, it is not so difficult to achieve that I mean, Digital, Broadcast, Radio, TV, Magazine and your dreams. As a family we are always going to work towards Video on Demand. success. Our thoughts and idea were, what if this strong brand of Funasia, which already ties movies, theatres, concerts, His popular show Bol Keh Lub Azad Hain Teray with Azad has won millions of hearts and have touched them in many magazine, to the radio could be evolved as a true diverways. His insight on human emotions is fascinating. sified platform. Rather than being identified as a radio Q: At such a young age, how do you have such a huge channel we become a true media company which coninsight on people? If I call you a philosopher and a guide, nects the 6 million community of South Asians in the that wouldn’t be wrong. US, and globally beyond that. Make this a big community Azad: Oh! That is a tall claim.I was just a commoner growing connect even further. That is how the idea and the vision up. I had a lot of limitations. I had ADHD, dyslexia, stammer- was born. It would be so great for all the people to coning and asthma. I had no idea of mind over matter. But I still nect with each other. This idea and vison led us into the
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BRINGING THE COMMUNITY TOGETHER WHERE YOUR VOICE MATTERS 1110 AM
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world of entertainment. Over the period of last few months, this idea has taken a shape and has evolved into something concrete. Initially we had thought that this will complete its cycle in 3-5 years. But today I feel with the great team that we have, we are staffed to take this vison to completion in less than a year.
Q: Azad, was this in your vision ever! This integration of TV, Video on demand and broadcast with your radio? Azad: There is a difference in how a business man thinks and how a creative person thinks. What I am doing at Radio Azad is my sole purpose. If I must think of it as a business, I would ask a businessman to take care of that. I believe in meritocracy. If someone is good at something, I would let that person handle that part if you are better than me. That is where Sam comes in. As a business, I have always thought about syndication. But, being a businessman is a trait. It is important to also be a human being. For me being human is someone who has a vison, who has a plan and has a heart to pursue that plan. Sam has the business part of it as well as the human part of it. And when I met Vaishaliji, I knew they were the people whom I wanted to collaborate with and be partners with. I am a huge advocate of co-existence. So, when Sam shared his vision, I was as excited about it as he is. My 13 years of serving in the army has taught me that in difficult situations a regular person can do good and a gifted man can do wonders. Survival instinct, leadership, discipline, punctuality drew me to the army, but I recognized my inner artist in me and I moved on to a different path- the radio. Now, I see this collaboration as the next step. It is something that is going to be great for the community.
discourse has the power to change the course of our lives. If we facilitate other human beings, God/universe will facilitate us. Vaishali- If we do things for each other, selflessly, without doing wrong to anyone or harming anyone, we are in the right path. We saw the same desire in Azad. And we thought, together we can do wonders for the community. Sam: We have so many border issues in our countries and spend so much in armed forces. It is easy to point fingers at others and keep waiting for things to change. But, why can we not be instrumental in bringing the communities together? We do not choose where we are born, which religion or country we belong to, but we can choose humanity.
The world evolves because of media. It is the trend setter for future generations. We want to play the role of a socially responsible entity so that people are entertained, feel happy and light at heart. We want to be a part of the change. We want to contribute to the change. Learning & evolving is the new constant. We are designed to change and evolve. That is what differentiates us from animals. Animals cannot use their mind to reason good and bad. The new generation is not listening to Funasia. Our kids are not. Our exercise is designed to cater to every age group, every religion, every place you belong to. Funasia will continuously evolve for the millennials, ages 30-50 and above 50. Our aim is to evolve in multi direction. When we collaborated with Radio Azad our main concern was whether we are overlapping, whether we have distinct flavors. They have a discrete flavor and format. We The Philosophy as listeners also have mood changes. One day we might Q: What does the collaboration mean for the community? be interested in a comedy movie and on a different day or time we might be interested in a drama. So, when we were Azad: We are in the process of trying to create something trying to get all the flavors to Funasia, we recognized that good for the community. We are trying to get everybody Radio Azad brings a distinct flavor. So instead of inventing together. We must grow above religion, caste, creed, sex the wheel again, why not join hands with what the comand color. We need to start to communicate. An intellectual munity already likes! For our Advertisers
IF WE DO THINGS FOR EACH OTHER SELFLESSLY WITHOUT DOING WRONG TO ANYONE, WE ARE IN THE RIGHT PATH
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Vaishali: We can never forget our advertisers. We have designed our platform in such a way that they get the maximum leverage. Our advertisers are an integral part of us. We have invested in statistics to prove the number of listeners we have. It is a unique platform for our advertisers
BRINGING THE COMMUNITY TOGETHER WHERE YOUR VOICE MATTERS 104.9 FM
who will know how to grow their business with the statistics we give them, so they get value for every penny they spend with us. Nothing will be in dark, and it will be a two-way communication. It is about joining hands together. We all together need to be successful in the community. Azad: One can target their advertisement according to the programming one chooses to hear and see. We have two established brands Radio Azad for 7 years and Funasia for above 15 years. We know the brand loyalty and the brand recognition. It is a results-oriented advertising. Sam: We will be a Nielsen rated radio station. Nielsen rating is a gold standard. No other South- Asian media has this rating. It gives the analytics. Nielsen Media Research seeks to determine the audience size and composition. How many people are listening to the radio at a given point of time. If something is not working for our advertisers, we need to see if they need to change their ads, revamp their ads or do something else to make it work. With this collaboration we currently have 1.5 million unique
From the left: Sam Thakkar, Vaishali Thakkar, Azad & Navneeta
1110 AM
thank Ayeshaji, my partner without whom I would have not reached where I have come today. Vaishali: Led by two visionary people, Ayesha and I will make sure that we execute the plan successfully with the help of our dedicated team. Sam: Media should be progressive, and it reflects how a society and community is at a point of time. We are a very dynamic and liberal community and our vision is to make the media at par with who we are. We have a great team to take this vision ahead.
IF WE FACILITATE OTHER HUMAN BEINGS; GOD/UNIVERSE WILL FACILITATE US. Everyone in the room was charged up. They felt so proud to be associated to this team. The vision and the thoughts were infectious. At every juncture Sam, Vaishali and Azad thanked their wonderful team members that are making this dream come true. It seems like just the beginning. This collaboration is just the few of the initial steps taking us towards the big dream of building this brand as the number one South Asian brand in the entire USA and beyond. It takes great visionaries to take these first steps, to build the bridges that leads to the treasure. As Azad rightly mentions, if we facilitate other human beings, God/universe will facilitate us. Extending our earnest hands to the community and hoping the same from them. Interviewed & written by Navneeta Khemka Editor For live interview go to facebook.com/funasia radio
broadcast listeners,2 million digital listeners. Movies attract 450,000 and Events attract 500,000 people p.a. It is a 360 degrees marketing platform to take a business to any level that they desire. One should not be so conscious of the number of spots they buy, but they should also recognize that 1 spot means 3 million listeners, which no other South-Asian media can claim to offer. Last Thoughts Azad: Business, social aspect and collaboration will create an environment of what we have dreamt of. President Obama said, we are the miracles that we have been waiting for. I
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AKSHAY KUMAR,
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WHO NEVER PUTS MAKEUP SAYS HIS 2.0 LOOK WAS A ‘DIFFERENT STORY ALTOGETHER’
kshay Kumar, who plays the antagonist in Shankar Shanmugam, 2.0, costarring Rajinikanth, made an interesting revelation about his look in the movie. Akshay, who plays the role of Dr.Richard in the film, shared a photograph of his look on his Twitter account and wrote: “For an actor who never puts makeup, 2.0 was a different story altogether.” The 51-year-old actor revealed that a lot of time was invested in getting his look right and that it took him more time to get ready than Amy Jackson. “To get this look right, I think I must’ve taken longer than the female lead (Amy Jackson),” wrote Akshay. When Akshay Kumar unveiled his look, a few months ago and described it as one of the “most powerful character” that he has portrayed on screen. He wrote: “Sharing with you my most powerful character,
which has probably stayed with me for the longest time. I am the dark superhero for those who don’t have a voice.” He accompanied the post along with the warning “Humans Beware.” Directed by Shankar
The film also features Amy Jackson and Adil Hussain.
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Shanmugham and produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions, 2.0 is the second installment of Rajinikanth’s 2010 Tamil film Enthiran. Just like the first installment, the music for 2.0 has also been composed by A R Rahman.
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2018
India:
SALMAN KHAN STAYS HUMAN
A
video of Salman Khan visiting children afflicted by cancer has gone viral. Salman was requested by Govind to meet his wife’s nephew who was suffering from cancer and was admitted the Tata Memorial Hospital in Mumbai. While the kid seems happy at Salman’s visit as are some innumerable people standing inside the ward, the actor’s only concern was on when will the child get home and he asks the child about that. “Yahan se kab nikal rahe ho bhai, Ghar kab jaa rahe ho? (When are you leaving the hospital? When are you going home?” Salman is seen asking the child holding back his emotions.After meeting the child, Salman goes on to meet other kids in the hospital and happily poses for pictures with the families. In an earlier interaction Salman had spoken about how children affected by Cancer are the real heroes. “I beat Sonu Sood and Prakash Raj on screen. But these
children are affected by cancer for no fault of theirs. They don’t smoke or drink but suffer from this disease. But they still fight it and throw cancer out of their bodies. They are the real heroes. I have met children who are in the stages of cancer and they do not look stressed about it. Besides that, people lack common sense and try and keep cancer patients away from them because they think it is contagious,” was his refrain. Salman Khan is connected to a few charities through his organization Being Human and is often seen at various charity dos. Being Human supports children’s education through a couple of NGOs and pays for the treatment of children with heart ailments. Salman Khan turns producer for Kapil Sharma show Salman Khan may be busy with his film commitments but the superstar has always expressed keen interest in television content too. There were reports of the actor producing a biopic series on the wrestler Gama Pehlwan with Sohail Khan playing the lead role. While there
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has been no progress on the front, it seems that another show has taken his fancy. It will be the comeback show of Kapil Sharma, who is returning to the small screen after a short hiatus. If reports are to be believed now, his new comeback show on television will be produced by Salman Khan. The production house that the superstar owns has apparently even agreed to do the same along with Kapil Sharma. While there were initial plans of Kapil producing the show, during his last show, the channel had roped in another production house. So this time around, Kapil decided to join hands with his Bollywood friend Salman Khan. On the work front, Salman Khan is currently busy with his hosting duties of Bigg Boss 12. Meanwhile, he is also busy filming Bharat with director Ali Abbas Zafar. The film also stars Katrina Kaif, Disha Patani, Sunil Grover, Jackie Shroff, Tabu and Nora Fatehi.
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FAILING PUBLICLY IS HUMILIATING
ABHISHEK BACHCHAN
B
eing the son of two of the most loved actors in the country, Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan, is not so easy. There has been immense pressure on Abhishek Bachchan to live up to his famous surname. While he has tasted success, he has had more misses than hits and received his fair share of brickbats. According to a leading daily, at a recent event, Abhishek said that criticism affects him very badly. “It destroys me, and I want it to destroy me. I would stick up my movie reviews on my bathroom mirror and highlight all the portions that said how bad I was. I would read those reviews every day and after a while it kind of became inconvenient because my bathroom mirror was covered with reviews and I couldn’t see myself!” he revealed. The actor revealed that he watches his films almost every day to learn from his mistakes
and better his craft. “I am not a megalomaniac, I do it for educational purposes,” he laughed. Abhishek is no stranger to failure at the box office. In fact, his most recent release, Manmarziyaan, received a lukewarm response from the audience, despite the performances being applauded by critics. “Failing publicly is humiliating and sometimes, people take pleasure in seeing you fail,” he said. Abhishek said that he faced a lot of hardships at the be-
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ginning of his career, contrary to popular perception that he had everything easy because he is Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan’s son. “I faced a lot of hardships at the beginning of my career - I would get thrown out of films, replaced, I wouldn’t be paid what was contracted. I slowly realized that it’s a business and you just have to pull up your socks and keep carrying on. And if you aren’t good enough, the next one will be,” he said.
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MAHESH THAKKAR CEO Perfect Tax
WILL 48 YEARS IRS CHASE FOR TAXING LLC MEMBERS END? as LLC was born. Wyoming was the first state to enact a statute authorizing limited liability companies. C) Confusion after birth of LLC structure:
A) Introduction: What will you think of a fisherman who has been trying to catch fish, but not able to catch it, for days and days, till 48 years pass by? Fisherman is not smart or experienced? Or Fish is too big or too smart? None of these apprehensions or judgments are right when you are thinking of IRS as fisherman and limited partners of LLC as fishes. It is glory of constitution and power of judiciary system of USA or it is delay of IRS in issue of relevant guidelines which has prevented for Government from collecting SE tax from LLC members marked as limited. But now with latest court case and with latest announcement of IRS commissioner to develop new guidelines for SE tax for LLC members, this drive of IRS is entering a new phase, which rings bell of warning for all tax payers or tax planners. I am trying to discuss these different cases here to help you gain clear understanding of various principles laid down by courts in this matter and to appraises you of the latest position. B) Beginning of exemption of Limited Partners from SE Tax Sec. 1402(a) (13) was enacted in 1977 discussing taxation of partnership. As per this code section, earnings allocated to a limited partner are exempted from selfemployment. Limited partners have limited ability to manage the partnership and limited liability for the debt of the partner. They can exclude their distributive share for self-employment tax purposes. General partners actively manage the partnership and shoulder unlimited in liability. They are subject to self-employment tax on their shares of income. However, 1977 first time new entity structure known today 2018
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This first-time created confusion about applicability of SE tax to members of LLC who are treated like partners of the partnership. IRS was faced with questions about determining whether a member in an LLC could qualify as a “limited partner” under the Sec. 1402(a) (13) exception and thereby exclude his or her distributive share of income from self-employment tax even though the member might manage the LLC and still enjoy limited liability for the LLC’s debts. D) Treasury coming out with regulation for SE tax applicability to members of LLC In 1997, to resolve the issue, the Treasury Department issued Prop. Regs. Sec. 1.1402(a)-2, which provided that an LLC member’s distributive share would not be subject to selfemployment tax unless the member had: • Personal liability for the LLC’s debts; • Authority to contract for the LLC; or • Participated in the LLC’s business for more than 500 hours per year. E) Challenge of attorneys to treasury regulation making legal situation of LLC member uncertain Code section also clarified that “service partners” in a service partnership will be automatically excluded from claiming limited partner status and their share of income would be subject to selfemployment taxes. But as soon as above regulations were issued attorneys started challenging authority of the Treasury to legislate without Congress’s approval. Congress subsequently passed a oneyear moratorium prohibiting Treasury from finalizing the regulations (Section 935 of the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997, P.L. 105-34). Treasury has yet to finalize the regulations some 20 years later. This failure to issue final self-employment tax regulations is interpreted by some taxpayers as a support for claim that distributive income allocated to an LLC member, even a
service partner, is not subject to selfemployment tax. es. However, IRS has challenged this position at courts. The courts have often talked about intent underlying the Sec. 1402(a) (13) and declared that when LLC members or owners provide services to a business and have management authority, or who possess other characteristics inconsistent with those of traditional limited partners are liable to pay self-employment tax. There have however been series of famous court cases on this subject with ruling in favor or against IRS. I will discuss here under some the famous and important cases throwing light on this issue of applicability of SE tax to partners of LLC F) Historical court cases on this issue 1) Hardy V. Commissioner In Hardy v. Commissioner, the Tax Court considered the self-employment tax consequences of a plastic surgeon’s share of income earned through his investment in an LLC that owned and operated a surgery center. Whether a professional’s share of a pass through’s income is subject to self-employment (SE) tax is an important issue that affects many taxpayers. In Hardy, the taxpayer successfully argued that his share was more like passive income and was not subject to SE tax. 2) Renkemeyer, Campbell & Weaver, LLP v. Commissioner The attorneys’ interests in the LLP had been split into “general managing partner partnership units” and “investing partnership units,” and the partners had treated income allocable to the investing partnership units as limited partnership investment income not subject to self-employment tax. The Tax Court rejected this approach on two grounds. First, the court noted in passing that all the partners had management authority under state law governing LLPs. Second, and more importantly, the court emphasized that none of the partnership’s income should be excluded from selfemployment tax because all the
3) Castigliola v. Commissioner In Castigliola, three lawyers were the only members and managers in a law firm organized as a member-managed LLC. They paid themselves compensation comparable to salaries at other law firms and properly reported that compensation as guaranteed payments. They claimed that the rest of the LLC’s income arose from the work performed by the LLC’s other employees and therefore was a return on investment, rather than SE income. In Castigliola, Judge Paris suggested that LLC members may be taxed as limited partners if they had rights comparable to those of limited partners. She reviewed the history of limited partnership law, before, at the time of, and after (through now) the enactment of the limited partner exception. Every limited partnership has one or more general partners who run the business and one or more limited partners. She noted that the Castigliola taxpayers were the only owners, they ran the business, and they had only one type of ownership interest. Someone had to be the general partners, and they were it! G) Is law clear now? All the famous known court cases still do not full clarify legal position for LLC members. The law still is not clear as to when an LLC member’s income is deemed to come from services or from capital, and whether an LLC member’s servicebased income is enough to taint his or her income arising from capital investment. H) We Can expect now finalization soon. On June 29, 2017, Janine Cook, IRS deputy associate chief counsel for the Tax Exempt and Government Entities Division, told members of the American Bar Association that one of the IRS’s priorities is releasing guidance on the application of Code Section 1402(a) (13) to limited liability companies, which is included in the agency’s most recent Priority Guidance Plan. So, there is hope that companies and practitioners will get guidance from the IRS soon on the issues discussed here.
Mr. Mahesh Thakkar, writer of this article, is a CPA, Estate Planner and Finance Professional. He also Chartered Accountant, Cost Accountant and Company Secretary from India. He is chairman of Perfect Tax Group of companies and handles International Tax Planning.
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partners were active participants in the partnership’s business. The Tax Court in Renkemeyer, Campbell & Weaver, LLP v. Commissioner ruled against the taxpayer, finding that all of the taxpayer’s partners received SE income. The Tax Court concluded in Renkemeyer that the partners received SE income, stating: “The legislative history of section 1402(a) (13) does not support a holding that Congress contemplated excluding partners who performed services for a partnership in their capacity as partners (i.e., acting in the manner of self-employed persons), from liability for self-employment taxes.” Troy Renkemeyer, who was also a CPA, represented the firm, which was described in the opinion as having a “practice [that] emphasizes Federal tax law.” Subsequent to the decision, Mr. Renkemeyer was suspended from the practice of law in both Kansas and Missouri for unrelated reasons.
ILEANA D’CRUZ ACTRESS ILEANA D’CRUZ, WHO HAS MADE A COMEBACK TO THE TELUGU INDUSTRY AFTER SIX YEARS WITH THE FORTHCOMING FILM “AMAR AKBAR ANTHONY”, SAYS SHE NEVER QUIT HER CAREER IN THE SOUTH TO BUILD ONE IN BOLLYWOOD.
NEVER QUIT TELUGU INDUSTRY FOR BOLLYWOOD
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n a group interaction, she told that it wasn’t a conscious Talking about the project, she said: “There decision to move away from Telugu filmdom. couldn’t have been a better Telugu film to make a comeback. It has all the ingredients to be “People have always had misconceptions about my career. your regular commercial potboiler and has a After I signed Barfi, I was shocked to read reports that I have quit wonderful story. For the first time, I’ve played a Telugu cinema for Bollywood. These were baseless allegations complex role with many layers. I’ve also dubbed and it’s time to put them to rest. Why will I give up an industry in my own voice in Telugu.” Ileana says she which has given me an identity,” Ileana asked. wants to do films that will be remembered for a long time. In 2012, she made her Bollywood debut with Ranbir Kapoor’s Barfi, which was followed by Phata Poster Nikla Hero, Happy “I started my career when I was 20 and over Ending, Rustom, Baadshaho and Raid. the years have done all kinds of films. Now I’m 32, and there is remarkable change in my “When I was shooting for Julayi, I got an offer to work in Barfi. It thought process and personality. I have been was a project with an interesting story and I didn’t want to miss. making some sensible choices and I want it to I even consulted exploring the opportunity with director Trivikram reflect in the films I do. I want to be part of films and he was very happy for me. Even without knowing anything that will be remembered for a long time,” As about my role, he pushed me to accept the offer,” she said, the conversation veered towards her personal adding she got so busy in Bollywood post Barfi, she had to miss life and relationship status, she said she’s in a out on several Telugu offers. happy space. “It’s just that I was getting really good work in Bollywood that I didn’t have time for Telugu films. Also, after a point I was being approached for dance numbers by Telugu filmmakers and I was not excited about these offers. Therefore, I waited for the right film to return and that’s how Amar Akbar Anthony happened,” she clarified. In Sreenu Vaitla directed Amar Akbar Anthony, Ileana has teamed up with Ravi Teja for the fourth time.
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“I have evolved as a person and I’m neither pregnant nor married. After coping with depression, I have become mentally strong. My working relationship with people has also changed for good. I know I’m happy with my relationship status and I’d like to keep it that way,”
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NEHA DHUPIA
ANGAD BEDI REVEALS NEHA DHUPIA WAS PREGNANT WHEN THEY TIED THE KNOT
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hen Angad Bedi and Neha Dhupia took to social media to announce that they had tied the knot in an intimate anand karaj ceremony in Delhi, it came as a bolt from the blue. Speculation was rife that Neha was pregnant, which is why the couple had to rush into marriage. In August, Angad and Neha confirmed that they were expecting their first child. Now, Angad has revealed on Neha’s podcast that she was pregnant before they got married. He also said that when he broke the news to her parents, they gave him a lot of “jhaad”. “I said, ‘You know what? We’re gonna have a baby.’ There was silence, bahut jhaad padi (they scolded me a lot). I don’t think they were really prepared to hear the news that you were expecting,” he said. Neha, who is currently in her third trimester, revealed in a recent interview with a leading daily that she kept her pregnancy a secret at first because she did not want to lose out on projects. “I didn’t want to tell people that I was pregnant for a large part of these nine months because I didn’t want people’s attitude towards me to change. I was worried people would stop offering work. It was a good thing my bump wasn’t showing till the sixth month because appearances matter here, and one might be assumed to be unfit for a job,” the actress said. On the work front, Neha is currently hosting the third season of her podcast #NoFilterNeha on Saavn.
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The principle that one’s skills should decide remuneration and not gender, is something women around the world have been fighting for. Female professionals from all walks of life have been saying that they deserve equal pay as their male colleagues. Actor Taapsee Pannu is also in support of pay parity but at the same time she feels whether two people (irrespective of their gender) should be paid equally depends on their capabilities. To explain her point of view, the actor cites herself as example. “Maintaining pay parity is very important and I am in total favor of it. But right now, where I stand, I probably can’t say that I can command the same salary as my male counterpart in this or that film,” says Taapsee. The actor adds there are certain other factors that need to be considered too. “Some of my male co-actors get a certain amount can’t expect the same salary as Amitabh Bachchan just depending on the kind of openings they because I’m working with him can get to a film, that the money their films are making. Let me take the name of Varun [Dhawan], be it Judwaa (2017) or October (2018), his name does bring in audiences to theatres and give films good openings. This means that good money in a few days is guaranteed to to draw audiencthe proes in my name, ducer. At the day my film the end of opens well, and the day, it’s filmgoers come in show business, to watch both me you earn money and my male coto make money,” star, that day I will say she says adding I demand the same everyone is here salary,” she adds. to earn a living and make as much money as possible. After all, according to her, the profit one is making from a film will be used to make his or her next. “I can’t suddenly say that because I am acting opposite Amitabh Bachchan, Akshay Kumar and Varun Dhawan… I should get the same salary as theirs. Because I won’t get the audience to the theatres as much as they will. The day I command that kind of popularity and power
TAAPSEE PANNU:
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SUSHMITA SEN Sushmita Sen is the first name that comes to our mind when we talk about adoption. After all, she fought a long battle to bring her baby, Renee, home. But, this was not enough for her; she wanted Renee to have company. This made her fight for the custody of another girl child, Alisah. After adopting Alisah, Sushmita said: “I wanted to be a mother all over again. The earlier law was that if you have adopted a girl as your first baby, you can’t adopt another girl child. And I wanted a girl. Thankfully, the High Court changed the ruling. You can’t imagine how happy I was after hearing that.”
RAVEENA TANDON
Raveena Tandon was all the rage back in the 90’s. Very few people know that at the peak of her career the actress had adopted two girls, Pooja and Chhaya. In 1995, the actress was a single mother. Both her daughters were 11 and 8 years old respectively. The actress later got married to businessman Anil Thadani in 2004 and went on to have a son Ranbirvardhan and a daughter Rasha with him. Today, the actress has already become a grandmother after her daughter Pooja gave birth to a baby in 2014. Her younger daughter Chhaya recently got married in a wedding ceremony in Goa. “My daughters are my best friends. I remember, when I got married, they were the ones who sat in the car and led me to the mandap. And now, I got the chance to walk them down the aisle. It is such a special feeling.”
SUNNY LEONE One of the most stunning and sizzling couples from the industry is undoubtedly, Sunny Leone and Daniel Weber. This lovely couple had a simple yet elegant Gurudwara wedding. The couple became proud parents in 2017 to a 21-monthold adopted girl, who hails from Latur, Maharashtra, and her name is Nisha Kaur Weber. Sunny once said this in an interview: “It’s a responsibility for the rest of our lives. But we have been ready for that — physically, mentally and financially. We were working really hard because we wanted to start a family, and this is the way it’s going to start, so it’s amazing.” The couple has also adopted twins whom they have named Asher Singh Weber and Noah Singh Weber. The duo had been planning this for quite some time and their decision to adopt these twins came as a pleasant surprise to everyone in the industry.
SALIM KHAN
Once, Salim Khan, during his regular morning walks, noticed an ill beggar on the footpath seeking alms with her young daughter. Seeing the condition of the lady, and the subsequent state of the little girl, the kindhearted Salim ji started getting food for the duo. Then one day, he saw that the lady had passed away, and her little daughter was crying. Salim ji knew he couldn’t leave the girl alone on the cruel streets of Bombay to fend for herself. So, he held her hand gently, and brought her home. Once there, he asked the little girl her name. She replied, with tears still in her eyes, “Arpita”. Salim ji introduced the girl to his family, who gladly welcomed her into their household.Arpita soon became the heart of the Khan family as Salman, Arbaaz and Sohail were all brothers and they came to protect and love Arpita just like brothers do!
CELEBRITIES WHO ARE PARENTS TO ADOPTED KIDS Eradicating the taboo around adoption, these B-town personalities have taken a bold step to adopt kids. And, this list includes many single parents as well. 2018
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SHILPA SHETTY:
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MY STRUGGLE STARTED MID-CAREER, WHEN I WAS TYPECAST IN GLAMOROUS ROLES
hilpa Shetty completes 25 years in Bollywood, this year. She made her debut with the hit film Baazigar (1993) alongside Shah Rukh Khan, in a two-heroine film, that also starred Kajol. But Shilpa says a career in films was never planned, and the film that gave her a sound footing in the Hindi film industry, was actually incidental. “I didn’t think I was going to make it (acting) a career. At 17, I was going from one agency to another to earn pocket money, as a model. I only got into that because someone suggested that since I am tall, I should try my hand at modelling. After getting a portfolio done and sending pictures to different agencies, I was offered a film. Voh toh bani nahi, but somebody in that agency noticed me, and told the producers of Baazigar, and the rest is history,” says the 43-year-old. In the ‘90s, Shilpa worked in various films, but was almost always seen in a glam avatar. That, she says, was a result of being typecast. “Back in the day, when somebody had a hit film, everybody would love to cast that one person only. I didn’t have to struggle to land films. It actually started mid-way towards my career. People started typecasting me in just glamorous roles. At that point, we were just like glamour dolls in movies, we were dedicated to doing that. After this, there was a lull in my career, but then Dhadkan (2000) happened, and my career revived. I have seen it all — the highs and the lows. But I never gave up,” says Shilpa. Shilpa had her last full-fledged role in a Bollywood film 11 years back in Apne (2007). Asked what has kept her away from the silver screen for all these years, the actor who is also a writer and a producer, says, “I was busy with a host of stuff. I recently
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released my book, Diary of a Domestic Diva. I am also a wife and mother, which is a full-time job! My last appearance was in 2014 (Dishkiyaaoon), but I took the break out of choice. I delivered my son Viaan in 2012, and I believe that the first five years were really important for him. If I wanted to work in films during that time, I would have to give at least 40-60 days for a film, which I didn’t want to.” However, she does yearn to get back to films. “I miss it (acting in films). I did television, so I am still there in people’s minds. I had to work just one-two days there, I could give the rest of my time to my son.” A lot is said about how there are many people out there who try and take advantage of struggling actors. Did Shilpa herself come across such people in her initial days in Bollywood? “When you have a successful film, you don’t have to go through any struggle as you become a star overnight. But it must be hard for those people who are trying to make it, I am sure,” says Shilpa, and hints at a possible comeback when we ask if there’s anything in the pipeline. “I wish I could reveal, but I am bound by contract formalities and clauses. I do have something. I can’t announce it yet, it will come out very soon,” Shilpa signs off.
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DEEPVEER Wedding Made for Each Other
The intimate marriage was attended only by 30-40 people, comprising of family and close friends. The wedding was conceptualized and executed by Vandana Mohan of the Wedding Design Company in Italy. Villa Balbianello, the wedding venue was decorated beautifully and lavishly. Bunches of delicate flowers in various formations were seen adorning the venue. Rows of tables were laid out with beautiful cutlery and more decorations for what was surely a magnificent feast. Pastel color dominated the decorations and flower arrangements in shades of pink, yellow, gold and white were seen. Beautiful flower chandeliers hung from the ceiling while, white flower garlands lined the wall. Before the wedding, the Padmaavat actors exchanged rings followed by sangeet and an emotional mehendi ceremony. Deepika’s radiant cut Ranveer and Deepika, who ring with huge diamonds dated for six years before tying the knot, chose a plush resort in Italy, overlooking the picturesque Lake Como for their destination wedding. Deepika and Ranveer had confirmed their wedding by releasing a statement which read as, “With the blessings of our families, it gives us immense joy in sharing that our wedding is set to take place on the 14th and 15th of November 2018. We thank you for all the love you have showered upon us over the years and seek your blessings as we embark on this incredible journey of love, loyalty, friendship and togetherness. Lots of love, Deepika and Ranveer.” 2018
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was with the traditional bright red choodas. Two receptions were hosted, one in Bengaluru and the other in Mumbai. Post their reception and honeymoon, reportedly, Deepika and Ranveer will shift to a ₹ 50 crore worth apartment. A media report suggests, “Ranveer and Deepika were looking for their perfect home since quite a while and the moment they saw this property, they knew they wanted it. It’s a huge bungalow which costs ₹ 50 crore approximately. They wanted the interiors more personalized so the work in that house is still on. Until then, the duo will be residing in Singh’s current residence, Shree.”
is exactly what a dreamy bridal ring seems like. As per reports, DeePee’s enviable ring costs somewhere between Rs. 1.3 - 2.7 crore. On the other hand, Ranveer had a simple and fuss-free gold band. They had deployed three-layer security at the wedding to ensure that their privacy was maintained. Apart from phones, the couple had also asked guests to refrain from bringing wedding presents, and instead donate to Deepika’s Live Laugh Love Foundation which works on awareness about depression and mental health. They have requested the guests to provide certain credentials along with the checks that they would want to give forth as donations to the foundation. After the newlyweds were in Mumbai, Ranveer and Deepika patiently met the photographers outside Ranveer’s residence. The new bride wore a cream suit paired with a silk red dupatta and heavy traditional jewelry while Ranveer coordinated his airport outfit with Deepika in a cream kurta set and a red printed jacket, all custom designed by Sabyasachi. While leaving for Bengaluru the couple were a vision in white Deepika looked pristine in a cream salwar suit with a self-worked dupatta while Ranveer opted for a printed bandhgala to go with his white kurta-pant combo. The new bride was spotted wearing her mangalsutra and she also added heavy traditional chandbalis to enhance her elegant look. The only pop of colour added to her look
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BOLLYWOOD CELEBS WHO GOT MARRIED TO THEIR CO-STARS
DHARMENDRA AND HEMA MALINI The love story of this couple is considered to be as good as a hit masala Bollywood flick. It is said that they fell in love with each other on the sets of Tum Haseen Main Jawan. But at that time Dharmendra was married and had two sons out of his first wedding. But his first wife, Prakash Kaur denied divorce, so the He-man converted himself to Islam and tied the knot with his ladylove Hema Malini on August 21, 1979. The couple has two daughters- Esha Deol Takhtani and Ahana Deol Vohra.
KAREENA AND SAIF ALI KHAN When Kareena Kapoor and Shahid Kapoor parted ways, she was shooting for Tashan with Bollywood’s Nawab Saif Ali Khan. Love blossomed between this two. The film was shot in romantic locations like- Kerala, Ladakh, Rajasthan and Greece. Saif was divorced during that time. They dated each for almost four years and then tied the knot in 2012. 2018
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AMITABH BACHCHAN AND JAYA It is said that Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bhaduri’s love story started on the sets of Zanjeer. During that time, Jaya was a superstar and Big B was just a struggling actor. They both decided to go to London if Zanjeer becomes hit. As the film was blockbuster at the box-office, they both planned for the London trip. But Big B’s father Harivansh Rai Bachchan did not approve of this trip unless they were married. So, the ‘already in love’ couple tied the knot in a hurry and left for London the same day.
ABHISHEK AND AISHWARYA They met each other on the sets of Dhaai Akshar Prem Ke and Kuch Naa Kaho, but back then they were just friends. In 2006, they were out from their respective relationships and worked together in three filmsUmrao Jaan, Guru and Dhoom 2. Because of that, they spent a lot of time together and eventually, both of them developed feelings for each other. They decided to marry and tied knot in 2007.
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RAJKUMMAR RAO: Content is the New Entertainment Rajkummar has collaborated with Radhika Apte and Kalki Koechlin for the first time to narrate the audible adaptation of Hussain Zaidi’s novel, “Mafia Queens of Mumbai”.
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ctor Rajkummar Rao, who has delivered some path-breaking performances since his Bollywood debut, says content is the new entertainment — whether it is through the web, films or audio — and that he is glad to be part of such a welcome change. The actor said, “I think content is the new entertainment. People want to experience something new, be it on-screen or audio. The definition of entertainment is definitely changing and I’m glad that I get to be a part and contribute to this welcome change.” Rajkummar has collaborated with Radhika Apte and Kalki Koechlin for the first time to narrate the audible adaptation of Hussain Zaidi’s novel, “Mafia Queens of Mumbai”. Asked how important it is for such stories to be told, he said, “I think it’s extremely important because till date we only know about the men in mafia, but these remarkable women are worth knowing, the situations that shaped their lives and the emotions that shaped their destiny.” Did he get a chance to read the book? “I did not get a chance to read the book prior to coming on board for Audible. Thanks to this collaboration, I not only got to narrate the ‘Mafia Queens of Mumbai’, but also discover the complex situations, characters and uncertainty that shaped each of these women’s stories. Through the book I discovered a whole new Mumbai. The character that I liked the most was of ‘Sapna Didi’ – the way she changed herself to avenge her husband, her life, her vengeance… It is so powerful. I was narrating her story, but also listening to it for the first time and it was
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fascinating. For me, Sapna’s story was a thriller and romance combined into one, it was shocking, gripping and impressive to know what she went through. I know it’s going to be a favorite among listeners,” he said. Rajkummar, who was last seen on-screen in Stree, says he would love to work with Radhika and Kalki in films too. “It has to be a story where we can all do justice to our parts and have good roles. But of course, I would love to work with Radhika and Kalki,” he said
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MADHURI DIXIT ON WHAT WOULD HAVE HAPPENED IF
HUM AAPKE HAIN KOUN..! RELEASED 20 YEARS LATER
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ctress Madhuri Dixit Nene says if her 1994 film Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! released two decades later on the digital giant Netflix, it would have been watched by even more people. Madhuri was there for Netflix’s “See What’s Next: Asia”. The actress is making her debut on Netflix with her Marathi production titled “15th August”, which is set in a chawl and is a satire about the struggles of middle class India. Asked what if Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! would have premiered 20 years later on Netflix? “There are two magical things in the world. One is theatre or cinema and the internet. Netflix is a great marriage between these two. If we had the infrastructure that we do today, 20 years ago then it would have been great because even though Hum Aapke Hai Koun was very well received despite not having Netflix and everything it would have magnified,” Madhuri said.
She said releasing it on a digital platform would have taken the family entertainer, which was very well received at the Indian box office, to another level. “190 countries and different languages with subtitles... I think it would have been watched by even more people than it reached out to,” she added. The 51-year-old Bollywood actress said films releasing on the digital platform help in reaching out to a larger audience. “When you make films, you want maximum number of people to see... In India there are 5000 screens theatres, in China it’s 9000 theatres
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and in Netflix more than 100 million screens. “So, you are reaching out to that many people and that’s what you want to do. You want to magnify it and take it to as many different people as possible,” she added. Apart from announcing Madhuri’s production venture on the streaming giant, Netflix officials also announced eight more films releasing on the portal. It includes Firebrand produced by Priyanka Chopra and mother Madhu Chopra, Leena Yadav’s Rajma Chawal and Chopsticks starring Abhay Deol and Mithila Palkar among others.
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- PRIYANKA CHOPRA Nick Jonas and Priyanka Chopra’s wedding picture rights have been sold for staggering 2.5 million dollars (18 crore)
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t’s raining weddings in Bollywood. While Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone are married, Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas are busy with their wedding celebrations as well. Nick and Priyanka are expected to tie the knot this month. Just a few days ago, Priyanka’s friends threw her a grand bridal shower in New York, which was followed by a wild bachelorette party in Amsterdam. Nick is off on his bachelor party at present. The wedding is expected to take place in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Earlier, reports about their pictures being released in an international publication have been doing the rounds. While there hasn’t been any confirmation about which magazine has the final say, according to sources, they are expected to have been sold for staggering 2.5 million dollars (18 crore)
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Nick and Priyanka’s wedding is reportedly going to be a three-day affair, and the festivities will begin on November 30. Around 1500-2000 guests are expected to attend the Nick-Priyanka wedding. Salman Khan and his family, Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Katrina Kaif, Farhan Akhtar and Siddharth Roy Kapur have reportedly been invited from the film fraternity. Like Ranveer and Deepika, Nick and PeeCee might also have two different wedding ceremonies to honor each other’s faith. Nick and Priyanka got engaged in a traditional roka ceremony on August 18, after keeping the media guessing about their relationship for months.
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JAWANI PHIR NAHI ANI 2:
A sequel far better than the original
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irected by Nadeem Baig, the nearly three-hour comedy takes place three years after the original Jawani ended. Upon his brother-in-law Rahat’s (Fahad Mustafa) insistence, Pervez (Ahmed Ali Butt) and Sheikh (Vasay Chaudhary) travel to Turkey with their wives Lubna (Uzma Khan) and Gul (Sarwat Gillani). There, the tragicomical circumstances reunite them with their long-lost friend Sherry (Humayun Saeed) who is hell bent on suicide. The film takes us through their journey as conflicts involving money, love and Indo-Pak politics arise. The greatest strength of JPNA 2 is its fast pace. It moves like a bullet train from point A to B, never letting the audience take a breather. A few scenes are unnecessary, even fewer drag beyond the limit. Pakistani film-makers rely too much on cross-dressing, fat shaming and jokes about transgenders. This is a problem that needs to be addressed.
JPNA 2 doesn’t break that norm. There is a fine line between being funny and crossing the line. And as hard it is to pinpoint the ‘line’, we have seen our film-makers tip over before in Mehrunnisa V Lub U and more recently, in Jackpot. Vasay does cross the line at times but quickly manages to pick himself up and continue. However, the writer’s brand of humour has evolved. He has developed a better grasp of storytelling and how to keep a scene entertaining even if it runs too long. One element I’d like to see him utilize better is the transition from drama to humor and back, within the scenes. As of now, he jumps between the two elements. Even then, JPNA 2 works so much better than most other rom-coms. And for that, the credit goes not only to the writer but also the director and actors.Ahmed was a treat to watch. One can’t decide if his brand
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of comedy has grown on me or he has done away with being annoying and matured. Nonetheless, the actor proves to be as essential a part of the film as Humayun and Fahad, if not more. Kubra khan is impressive too (who plays Humayun’s love interest) and how natural she appears on-screen. Humayun may at times come off as bland but his lady love balances the scene with genuineness in her expressions and movement. Fahad turns out to be a great addition to the franchise. He doesn’t exploit his role to steal everyone’s thunder but actually adds to the story. One can argue that the IndoPak angle was pointless too but it surely kept the film engaging. The beauty lies in its constant twists and turns. Under Nadeem’s direction, all the pieces of the puzzle came together seamlessly. Overall, JPNA 2 far exceeds expectations. It doesn’t happen often that a sequel is better the original. JPNA 2 has achieved that.
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2018
BHARAT
SALMAN KHAN SALMAN KHAN AND KATRINA KAIF are at the Wagah Border
S
alman Khan and Katrina Kaif are reuniting after Tiger Zinda Hai, in Ali Abbas Zafar’s next film, Bharat. Salman shared a still from the movie where the two actors are standing at the Wagah Border. Bharat will have an Eid release in 2019. Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif are reuniting in Bharat. While major details about the big film are being closely guarded, a glimpse of the first looks of these two actors was released by Salman. Directed by Ali Abbas Zafar, who has previously helmed Salman-Kat’s Tiger Zinda Hai, Bharat has been hogging headlines for its unique plot. In the photo, both Salman and Katrina have their backs facing the camera as they are looking at Pakistan from the Wagah Border in India. While Salman is wearing a suit, Katrina is clad in a saree, complete with a shawl and wavy hair. Interestingly, this isn’t the real Wagah Border in Amritsar. A crew member told that the film’s team rather recreated the Indo-Pakistan border area in Ballowal village in Ludhiana, Punjab. This is because shooting isn’t allowed by the Border Security Force (BSF) at the Wagah Border due to security reasons. Also, because Bharat has scenes which require the actors to cross the border and move to the Pakistani side which isn’t allowed by either country. Bharat reportedly is an official adaptation of a 2014 South Korean film Ode to My Father. It is produced by Atul Agnihotri’s Reel Life Production Pvt Ltd and Bhushan Kumar’s T-Series. Bharat has so far been shot over various schedules in Mumbai, Delhi, Abu Dhabi, Spain and Malta. The film also stars Disha Patani, Sunil Grover, Jackie Shroff, Tabu and Manav Vij, among others.
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2018
ZEENAT AMAN
Zeenat Aman ushered a new era for female actresses in the industry. At a point in time when most of the heroines preferred being traditional, she was a rebel who paved her own way.
Z
eenat Aman ushered a new era for female actresses in the industry. At a point in time when most of the heroines preferred being traditional, she was a rebel who paved her own way. The actress is mainly known for her work in the industry during the 1970’s and 80’s. Upon making her debut in Bollywood, she was credited for introducing a modern look to Hindi Cinema. Zeenat Aman was born to a Hindu mother and a Muslim father Amanullah who was one of the writers for the classic “Mughal-e-Azam”, on November 19th, 1951. Zeenat was an only child and her parents divorced when she was a little girl. A graduate of Saint Xavier’s school in Bombay. Her father passed away when she was 13. Zeenat won a scholarship to study in California. Upon her return she started working as reporter and was introduced to modeling by friends. Her most prominent ad campaign was the Pond’s 7 day to better complexion. Zeenat entered the Miss India contest and was the third runner up, to go to Miss Asia/Pacific a title she later won - being the first Indian to ever win that title (the same title was brought to India a second time in 2000 by Diya Mirza). Zeenat was introduced to the movie screen by O.P. Ralhan in Hulchul with Kabir Bedi and later repeated again by Ralhan in a cameo in Hungama. Both films sunk without trace. Zeenat was the third choice for the junkie ‘Janice/Jasbeel’ character in Dev Anand’s Hare Rama Hare Krishna (1971) opposite himself and the then reigning queen Mumtaz. Upon completion of shooting, Zeenat began packing bags to move to Malta with her mother and German step father (Mr. Heinz) for his job posting. When Dev Anand received feedback on rushes for the film, he insisted that Zeenat and her parents hold off on the move until the film is released and its fate decided, with reluctance they agreed. The film was an instant hit and Zeenat walked away with all the accolades shunning Mumtaz - never before had the Hindi cinema seen a newcomer overshadow the reigning queen. She won the Filmfare Award as Best Supporting Actress. For the first time, the Indian audience accepted a woman who played a ‘less
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than pure’ role in a movie. Zeenat went on to revolutionize the Hindi film actress. She was the first Indian actress who refused bouffants, cropped a bob at the height of her career and hardly appeared in saris and bindis and could easily carry off a bikini dress without looking vulgar. She took on roles of the modern urban Indian woman, who made no excuses and took no prisoners. Her characters contemplated abortion to pursue a career Ajnabee (1974) or dumping a poor lover to pursue a rich man Roti Kapada Aur Makaan (1974), and still manage to win audience’s approval. She pursued Vijay Arora by strumming her guitar singing “Churaliya hai” in the Nasir Hussain’s hit film Yaadon Ki Barat (1973), fought alongside Amitabh Bachchan as a revenge-seeking action heroine in Don (1978). Even though Raj Kapoor’s Satyam Shivam Sundaram (1977) didn’t do well, Zeenat was able to break barriers by kissing her leading man on the mouth for the first time on the Indian screen post-Independence and receiving a Best Actress Filmfare nomination. She received another Filmfare nomination as Best Actress for the controversial hit film Insaaf Ka Tarazu (1980) where she played a justiceseeking rape survivor. Dev Anand promoted Zeenat in 70’s by signing 7 films with her of which 4 were blockbusters. Rajesh Khanna-Zeenat Aman were paired opposite eachother in 4 films in 1974-84 period and 3 were blockbusters, and Shashi Kapoor-Zeenat gave 7 super-hit films off the 10 they did together. Zeenat began a new trend, helping launch careers for male actors - something Indian actresses never did. She signed Insaf Ka Tarazu with then unknown Raj Babbar and Deepak Prashar, signed films opposite even Mithun, Kanwaljeet Singh (Ashanti) and Tariq Ali (Hum Kissi se Kum Nahin and Yadon Ki Baarat). She had a tumultuous first marriage to Sanjay Khan which ended in divorce. Zeenat had a long string of super successes throughout her career but towards the end of her career she took on mature roles in Bhavani Junction, Haathon ki Lakeerain, Bandhan Kacche Dhagon Ka etc. The movies did average business at the box office as by late 80’s cinema shifted its focus to front bench whistlers. At that time Zeenat settled in matrimony with fellow actor Mazhar Khan and gave birth to two sons, turning down multiple film offers. The marriage ended bitterly in divorce, but soon after Mazhar died, and Zeenat’s feelings about him in the press were much kinder. Zeenat’s contribution to the Indian cinema is definitely recognized though not fully as yet, but in time to come she will definitely be remembered as the first person to introduce a lot to India and add several dimensions to Indian women. In summary “She revolutionized the portrayal of Indian Women” in its cinema.
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2018
PREITY ZINTA Preity Zinta: Was pretty nervous to face camera after a long gap.
A
ctress Preity Zinta, who is making a comeback to films after a decade with Bhaiaji Superhit, said the movie has given her new challenges as an actor and she was quite nervous on the first day of the shoot. Sharing her experience of working in her comeback film, Preity told, “I was pretty nervous to face the camera after a long gap…I was so worried that I thought I forgot acting. This is not only the film that I was doing after a long time but also, I was exploring a new genre. I never wear a sari in any of my films, never played a funny character like Sapna Dubey and above all that I had to learn a new dialect as the film is set in North India. I had challenges and excitement to get on to the film set.”
Deol, Arshad Warsi, Shreyas Talpade, Sanjay Mishra, Brijendra Kala and Ameesha Patel.
Preity’s last big released film was the 2008 Heroes which also featured Sunny. Asked about being part of a multi-starrer again, the Kal Ho Naa Ho actress said,”Neerraj (Pathak, director and writer) has written a very funny film and then we have got very good actors in the film. I have worked with Arshad earlier in Salaam Namaste and I want to tell you, he is very cool and funny guy to work with. Of course, I have worked with Sunny, so it was like reuniting with my coStarting with Dil Se in 1998, Preity acted in stars and good friends on a film set. several commercially successful films like Soldier, Ameesha is very sweet to me and we Kya Kehna, Har Dil Jo Pyar Karega, Chori Chori had a great cast and crew.” Chupke Chupke, Dil Chahta Hai, The Hero: Love Story of a Spy and Veer Zara among many others. Bhaiaji Superhit also features Sunny
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2018
BHAICHUNG BHUTIA
I WANT MY BIOPIC TO BE AS CLOSE TO REALITY AS POSSIBLE filmmaker
Anand Kumar,
who has previously directed
Delhii Heights (2007) and Zila Ghaziabad (2013), has conceptualized films like
a film around the life and times of one of India’s most successful football players.
S
ports films and biopics have become quite popular with fans and filmmakers in Bollywood. And the latest big name from the Indian sporting world, to get a biopic is India’s ex-captain and football sensation Bhaichung Bhutia. Filmmaker Anand Kumar, who has previously directed films like Delhii Heights (2007) and Zila Ghaziabad (2013), has conceptualized a film around the life and times of one of India’s most successful football players. Kumar is now in the process of finalizing a director and a lead actor for the film. Bhaichung Bhutia confirmed the project and said, “Anand got in touch with me about it. I am confident that he is the right person to tell my story.” Anand Kumar reveals that the idea of making a film on football first came to him during this year’s football World Cup that was held in Russia. Kumar adds, “It was during the World Cup that I noticed that a large
section of India’s youth is now inclined towards the sport. Young kids prefer football to cricket and there has been a genuine change in the sporting passion in our country. That’s why I wanted to make a film on football and who better to start with than Bhaichung. He has been a torchbearer of football in India.” Bhaichung reveals that he will be closely involved with the writing and conceptualization of the film. He says, “I want the biopic to be as close to reality as possible. One of my main concerns was the writer and I was happy that Anand hired Prashant Pandey to write the film.” Prashant Pandey has written films like Sarkar (2008), Poorna (2017) and Raid (2018). He feels that his life’s ups and downs will make for an intriguing story. Bhaichung adds, “I hail from a small town in Sikkim, but playing football for India wasn’t my only dream. I always wanted to own
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a professional football club and I realized that dream with United Sikkim. But playing and managing a club at the same time was a professional challenge that I hadn’t foreseen. We were relegated and to keep the club alive through adversity is an experience that I will never forget. Football wasn’t just my livelihood, it is my passion and it fueled all my dreams.” Kumar feels that Bhaichung’s journey over the years will make for a compelling film. The filmmaker adds, “He has won the Padma Shri and he has been a role model for many young Indians, who follow the game of football. He is to Indian football, what Sachin Tendulkar is to cricket.” Kumar and Bhutia plan on shooting the film, sometime next year.
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2018
STAN LEE
S
DIES AT 95
tan Lee, the former editor-in-chief, publisher, and chairman of Marvel Comics, died on 11 November 2018 in Los Angeles at age 95. Lee was best known for co-creating much of Marvel’s pantheon of beloved superheroes: SpiderMan, The X-Men, The Fantastic Four, the Hulk, Iron Man, Thor, Daredevil, Black Panther, and Doctor Strange, among others. Lee’s comics career began in 1939, when the 17-year-old took an assistant job at Timely Comics, the predecessor to Marvel. Born Stanley Martin Lieber, he adopted Stan Lee as a pen name when he started writing comic book stories, and later made it his legal name. His style of scripting — giving the artist a brief synopsis, then returning to nail down the details after the story was drawn — would later be dubbed “The Marvel Method,” and offered collaborators and co-creators like Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko enormous creative input into the work. Later, there would be sometimes bitter conflicts about precisely who created — or co- created — which characters, though the work-for-hire nature of their contracts meant that none of them retained the rights.
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During the 1960s (and beyond), Lee spoke often about the importance of inclusion and the evils of racism. In 1971, Lee challenged the Comics Code Authority — a sometimes draconian set of industryimposed rules created to avoid government regulation after a Congressional witch hunt of the comic book medium — with an anti-drug storyline in an issue of The Amazing Spider-Man. His boundary pushing led to a review and revamp of the Code, which ultimately declined into irrelevance. A year later, Lee stepped back from writing comics to become the publisher of Marvel, and quickly became its most recognizable public face, from then until now. As the world of Marvel superheroes expanded into the vast and lucrative Marvel Cinematic Universe, Lee became known for his cameo appearances in the films — perhaps the most popular in-joke in movies already peppered with references for comic book fans. Recent years have been tumultuous for Lee, including a bout with pneumonia, accusations of sexual misconduct, a $1 billion suit against his former company POW! Entertainment, claims that his advisors have been preying on him financially, Siri erroneously informing the world he was dead earlier this year, a bizarre report that his blood had been stolen to sign collectible comics, and the death of his wife, Joan Lee, who passed away last year after a stroke. But Lee’s legacy and impact on the world of both comic books and entertainment remains vast, enduring and undeniable.
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2018
Traveller ACCESSORIES.
L
et me start by saying I’ve seen loads of lists of “must-have” travel accessories out there that made me laugh out loud. From novelty items that no normal human being would carry in all their trips – like wine bags – to luxury camping hammocks and swiss-army knives. They may be indeed useful, but most of us aren’t going for the deep woods nor have been casted for the newest Survivor season. Facing this scenario of list-of-thingsyou-must-have-but-actually-you-dont-need-at-all, I’ve decided to compile my own. The travel items below are supposed to save you either space, time and/or money and make perfect Christmas or birthday gifts. Let’s go! DOCUMENT ORGANIZER - Let’s start with THE most important thing you carry on a trip. Nope, it’s not your laptop nor your mobile. It’s your documentation, especially your passport. Keep your documents tidy and safe is a must. If you’ve no idea what to get,
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Must have Travel Accessories.
a basic Amazon organizer does the job. PACKING CUBES - I’ve got a confession to make. I’m a mess at packing. Once I arrived my destination, my luggage quickly becomes chaotic piles of clothing. Not to mention finding specific items is almost impossible. That’s why I’m not exaggerating when I say this was one of my best travel purchases EVER. These little helpers makes any packing – and unpacking too – much more tidy and neat. A must for any modern traveler.
Money Belt - Keeping your belongings safe is a major concern whenever you’re going to less safe places. Personally it was indeed useful in the craziness of Naples and specially in Rio de Janeiro, where safety is the #1 concern. The thing is: any big city nowadays suffers from pickpocketing and bag-snatching issues at some level. Things don’t look they’re getting any better either. A money belt is an inexpensive way to keep your pocket money and even some documents invisible at all times. DIGITAL ORGANIZER - It’s astonishing the amount of SD Cards, cables, plugs and adaptors we travel with nowadays. Usually one of the pockets in my backpack is exclusively dedicated to these “accessories of accessories”, but it soon can become a huge mess. BACKPACK: a true symbol of the freedom of travel. Whether you’re going urban or rural, to a beach or to a mountain, a backpack
POWER BANK - Even though we are planning to send men to colonize Mars, for some reason manufacturers still refuse to launch phones, cameras and other devices
with batteries lasting for days. Result: everyone needs extra juice when on the road. Invest in a compact and potent device. Everything below 8,000mAh is worthless – remember they tend to lose capacity over time. Here’s a list of power banks to get you started. MULTI USB CHARGER - Who hasn’t faced the true first-world problem of not having enough power outlets to charge all the devices? Some hotel rooms are scarce in outlets and simply can’t deal with all the changing needs of a modern-day traveler. With the USB port type on the rise across gadgets, this
.
e d
cameras. On my article about backpacking in Asia, I have a whole section about the important features to look for in backpacks.
is essential to carry the usual vacation stuff. For one for a daily use, make sure you go for a unassuming (and basic?) backpack on the outside, but functional on the inside. This one is a good example. This way you can keep your stuff organized without drawing attention to precious stuff like laptops and
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2018
ULTRALIGHT WATER PURIFIER BOTTLE - Avoid the environment-damaging habit of buying several water bottles a day. This bottle makes clean drinking water in only 15 seconds from any fresh water source. Oh and removes chemicals and 99.999% of most viruses, bacteria (including E.Coli) and cysts in the process.
Taking his love for adventure a notch higher, Kunal Kapoor took off to Abu Dhabi in September to enjoy the joys of car-racing, then to Bhopal towards the end of October for some flying sessions and later it was Sri Lanka and surfing during Diwali. “Life is short and unpredictable, so one should try and experience everything that fascinates you. I started flying and racing long ago, surfing though is a new addition when I was in Sri Lanka earlier this year and went back recently for a few more training lessons. It’s exhausting but I’m finally getting the hang of it and spending more time on the board .than of it,” laughs the actor Kunal started flying around seven years ago at the Chimes Aviation Academy in Sagar. Since then, he has kept going back there whenever he got the chance. “My first flying instructor used to refer to himself as a part of a suicide prevention squad. He said when students start flying, it’s like they are in a hurry to crash the plane and his job is to prevent that .from happening,” he reminisces
trainer who used to be sessions with a Schumacher’s team. a part of Michael a lot of concentration “All these require and complete immersion as it’s just you and the machine. I find that level of focus and involvement meditative,” Kunal muses, stating matter-of-factly that it’s a little late for him to take up any of these professionally, but given a chance, he would have loved to be a race car driver. “Even to incorporate some of these skills while working on a film would be a dream come true. I was offered a script which had a lot of car racing years ago but unfortunately things didn’t fall into place,” he sighs. He flashbacks to 1986 when the American action-drama Top Gun had released. “Every boy wanted to be an Air Force pilot and get a crew cut like Tom Cruise. A line from the film, ‘I feel the need… need for speed’ had become my takiya qalam. I have forgotten the number of times I have watched Days of Thunder and Rush. Point Break, which is about surfing, is my ,another favorite, the ultimate edge-of-the-seat
Cars and racing are two of his lifelong passions and admits he learnt how to drive way before he was of age. In 2010, Kunal started training at a rally testosterone infused bromance with some great school on the outskirts of Mumbai action sequences. I can’t wait to do a film like that,” and then in Manali. More recently, he .Kunal signs off drove Formula 3 racing cars in Abu Dhabi and even managed a couple of 2018
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2018
EB 5 – GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY TO GET GREEN CARD FOR FAMILY
A) Overview of the program USA Congress established the EB-5 Program with following conditions in 1990 to create jobs 1) $1,000,000 capital investment in New Commercial Entity (NCE) 2) Investment may be reduced to $500,000 for jobs in Rural areas or Targeted Employment Areas (TEAs) 3) 10 new jobs must be created per Investor. 4) For each EB5 investor, the family including spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 years old are eligible to apply 5) Investment Obtained Through Lawful means
B) Permissible ways to raise investment Capital invested must have been obtained through lawful means. Evidentiary burden is on petitioner to demonstrate lawful Source of Funds. Different types of permissible Sources of Funds are as under: 1) Accumulation of Income 2) Sale of Real Property 3) Loan Secured by one’s own Property 4) Shareholder’s Loan 5) Gift
4) Access to the U.S. education system, Eligible for instate school tuition 5) Access to health care through the Affordable Care Act.
D) EB-5 Case Process Flow E) Considerations When Selecting an EB-5 Project 1) EB-5 Project background and team. * Experienced Immigration Attorney * Experienced Regional Center Agent 2) EB-5 Compliant Business Plan enough project detail. 3) Targeted Employment Area designation. 4) Capital Stack (Funding) of Project and
C) Benefits of having Green Card 1) Green cards give an investor and his or her family right to live and work in the U.S. 2) Green Card holders can live anywhere they choose in the U.S. 3) Liberty to stay in USA without any work. Green Card holders can work or not work in the U.S. *NOTICE: THIS PUBLICATION IS NOT AN OFFER TO SELL OR A SOLICITATION TO BUY AND IS NOT BEING DIRECTED TO ANY RESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OR TO ANY “U.S. PERSON” (AS SUCH TERM IS DEFINED IN REGULATION S PROMULGATED UNDER THE U.S. SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED) UNLESS THE SECURITIES ARE REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, OR AN EXEMPTION FROM THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE U.S. SECURITIES ACT IS AVAILABLE.
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Investment Details. 5) Capacity of project for timely Job Creation. TEA projects approved by Regional center can include indirect workers also while counting jobs created by project, which makes them little easier to fulfill this condition. 6) Amount of job cushion; acceptable job creation methodology 7) Reputation and experience of the promoter in real estate development or in type of project involved.
• One time EB-5 Administrative charge $ 50,000 • USCIS filing fees approximately $10,000 • Immigration Attorney fees approximately $15,000
H) Project of Marriot Autograph Hotel of Broadline Holding of McKinney i)
1) 2)
F) Status and future of the EB-5 Program 1) Approximately 20,000 I-526 petitions currently pending with USCIS (with approximately 80% of the applications from China) 2) Upcoming Renewal of the EB-5 Program. EB5 program is expected to go up by December 31, 2018 3) New Legislation Proposed – key points a. Stricter definition of Targeted Employment Area. b. Increase Investment Amount: up to $1.8 million. c. Restrictions on certain source of funds for EB-5 investors. d. Enhanced integrity and compliance requirements for regional center projects to protect EB-5 investors.
3) 4) 5) 6)
Status and highlights of the project New upscale Autograph Collection Marriott hotel285 rooms Amenities include 36000 square feet of state-of- the art meeting space, a three-meal restaurant and a unique pool/lazy river amenity that differentiates the hotel from others in the area. Ideally Located at the Craig Ranch Development Access to preferred tee times at TPC Craig Ranch golf course Access to 75,000 sq. ft. Craig Ranch Fitness Center 300 Seat Plaza in the Village wedding chapel nearby Proximity to historic downtown McKinney and the booming Legacy commercial hub in Plano, Texas
7) Experience and reputed promoters Broadline Holdings. ii) Background of the promoters. Promoter of the project, Broadline Holdings is a Joint Venture between Thakkar Development Group, LLC and Alamo Equity, LLC. This is an Investment Management Company with a private equity focus. Company has more than 50 years of experience in Real Estate combined. It has over $500 M in Real Estate projects currently in pipeline Here is the list of Key Projects being handled by Broadline holdings. a) Mustang Square - Plano, TX • 36 acre land development • 40k-50k sq ft cinema complex b) Allen Sports Village & Entertainment
G) Cost to Investors • Investment amount $500 K *NOTICE: THIS PUBLICATION IS NOT AN OFFER TO SELL OR A SOLICITATION TO BUY AND IS NOT BEING DIRECTED TO ANY RESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OR TO ANY “U.S. PERSON” (AS SUCH TERM IS DEFINED IN REGULATION S PROMULGATED UNDER THE U.S. SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED) UNLESS THE SECURITIES ARE REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, OR AN EXEMPTION FROM THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE U.S. SECURITIES ACT IS AVAILABLE.
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2018
100,000 guestrooms • 68 flag brands • Manage 22 hotels & 5,000 rooms in Texas • Executive team of veteran hoteliers averaging over 30 years of experience iv) Reasons for setting up project in Texas Complex - Allen, TX • 80 acre $500+ million mixed use development • 22,000 seat sports stadium c) Spurs Lane Medical Campus – San Antonio, TX • Located in Prime Medical Center • 65,000 sq.ft Class A Medical Office on 8.5 acres d) Marriott Autograph Resort, McKinney, TX ( Approved as TEA project by regional Centre) • 285 rooms • 36,000 SF of state-of-the-art meeting space • Access to TPC Golf Course • Fine dining and casual restaurants • Resort style Pool/Lazy river iii) Background of company managing hotel Proposed Marriot hotel will be managed by Aimbridge Hospitality, which is approved by Marriot. It is one of the largest and most dynamic independent management companies in America, will operate and manage the location. Great thing is the company has its headquarters in Plano city of Dallas Metroplex which is very near to site of the hotel project. Here are details of their experience. • Portfolio of 850 hotels/resorts with
It is due to following positive factors of Texas state
1) Tax free State 2) Second largest State of USA 3) Big source of oil leading to very strong economy 4) Relatively low real estate prices 5) Lowest minimum wages rate ben 6) Temperate weather 7) Highest growth rate of economy amongst all States of USA v) Why Dallas preferred choice in Texas? Headquarter of over 75 Fortune 500 Companies • Highest number of Professionals (Physicians/IT) • Lowest unemployment rate in State • Relatively low real estate prices • Better & safer weather than other cities of Texas • High per capita income offering great market • Hundreds of families moving every day to Dallas Metroplex Project Snapshot • Aimbridge Hospitality, one of the largest and most dynamic independent management companies in America, will operate and manage the location • Portfolio of 850 hotels/resorts with 100,000 guestrooms • 68 flag brands • Manage 22 hotels & 5,000 rooms in Texas • Headquarters in Plano, Texas • Executive team of veteran hoteliers averaging over 30 years of experience
*NOTICE: THIS PUBLICATION IS NOT AN OFFER TO SELL OR A SOLICITATION TO BUY AND IS NOT BEING DIRECTED TO ANY RESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OR TO ANY “U.S. PERSON” (AS SUCH TERM IS DEFINED IN REGULATION S PROMULGATED UNDER THE U.S. SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED) UNLESS THE SECURITIES ARE REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, OR AN EXEMPTION FROM THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE U.S. SECURITIES ACT IS AVAILABLE.
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EB5 SEMINARS IN INDIA
AHMEDABAD
MUMBAI
SURAT
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2018
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NASEERUDDIN SHAH Naseeruddin Shah: Stardom easiest way for an actor to get corrupted
in several prominent films such as Masoom, Sparsh, Nishant among others. The 68-yearold says he was fortunate to be a part of the movement where the independent cinema was thriving, and contrary to his decisions later, he worked for free ‘several times.’ “I was just an actor these filmmakers used. I admired the fact that the filmmakers were trying to do this, and I’m honored I became a center of that movement. Some cynical friends used to say they want me in their films because I am ready to work for free. On many occasions I was told there would be no payment, a lot of times I was promised chicken feed amount like Rs.5,000, Rs.10,000 which I never got by these so-called serious filmmakers,” he adds.
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aseeruddin Shah has no qualms in accepting that he has worked for money in some films but says the more tempting way for an actor to get corrupted is by becoming a star. “The easiest way for an actor to get corrupted is by becoming a star. Then you start believing your own myth. You start believing what the press writes about you. That’s very dangerous,” says Naseeruddin. The actor says no matter what position one holds in the industry, it is impossible to foresee the heights one can reach before signing a film. “There’s no way anyone can ensure what will be the quality of a film when you read a script. You have to go by instincts and do it. Sometimes it goes right and sometimes
wrong,” he adds. The actor says in his film career of more than four decades, he has taken up films purely ‘to run the kitchen’ and says one should not be ashamed of it. “I’ve worked for money and there’s no shame. I need to run my kitchen. That’s what I tell younger actors. Don’t be afraid to do things for money. What are we all working for? Aren’t we working to feed ourselves. I’ve done films for money but not too many films.” The A Wednesday! actor started his career featuring
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The actor, however, continued to work with people he had faith in and cut off ties with those who took everyone for a ride. “That did not embitter me because at the same time there were people like Shyam (Benegal) who was extremely generous and always very fair to everyone in his unit. I cut off relations with a lot of those filmmakers who I knew were taking everyone for a ride, not just me,” he adds.
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NAAGIN 3 Karishma Tanna On Stepping into Mouni Roy’s Shoes And The Challenges
Karishma Tanna is ‘happy to be back’ with her new show Naagin 3. In an interview, she said that even though she ‘doesn’t believe in folklore,’ she thinks people find the show convincing and also talked about stepping into Mouni Roy’s shoes, who had headlined the .previous two seasons of Naagin .
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oth the editions have been impactful and have their set of fans. So, I was apprehensive about taking up the role, but it was a challenge I couldn’t refuse,” told Karishma. After Karishma’s character in the show was introduced, it faced severe backlash. Fans wanted Mouni to be back. Later, Mouni defended Karishma and wished her good luck. Naagin 3 is a supernatural thriller based on two shape shifting naagins. Karishma Tanna is joined by Anita Hassanandani, who also plays a snake woman. Of her show, Karishma told, “I am happy to be back, especially with this show. My character has many shades. And, even though I don’t believe in folklore, people are gripped to the show.” Naagin 3 also stars Surbhi Jyoti. 2018
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Though hugely popular, the show was criticized for its plot. Mouni Roy had headlined both the shows. On being asked about if she thinks Naagin influences people into believing in superstitions, making them regressive, she told, “Everyone knows it’s a fictional show. It’s a concept explored for entertainment only. There are many who even ridicule the show, but, it enjoys a fan-following. The beauty with which the female actors are portrayed adds to its value.”
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SARA ALI KHAN CONFESSING THAT THERE WERE A LOT OF PERKS OF BEING A DAUGHTER OF TWO BIG NAMES IN BOLLYWOOD, SARA SAID THAT THE BIGGEST PERK FOR HER WAS THE ACCESS TO TOP
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aif Ali Khan’s daughter Sara Ali Khan is all set to make her big Bollywood debut on 7 December 2018 with her film Kedarnath, starring alongside Sushant Singh Rajput, who Sara referred to as her mentor during shooting. Sara’s debut film has been highly anticipated since talks started doing rounds of her venture into following the footsteps of her father. The actress has garnered huge appreciation after the trailer release of the film and is already trending for her enchanting beauty and witty ingenious remarks Referring to the growing conversation over nepotism, Sara Ali Khan said, “This is becoming a conversation back home more than it was before, the word nepotism that people talk about. I don’t think I can run away from that. And I think it will be wrong and even hypocritical of me to say that it (nepotism) doesn’t exist.” Confessing that there were a lot of perks of being a daughter of two big names in Bollywood, Sara said that the biggest perk for her was the access to top filmmakers in the industry. Talking about nepotism, she went on to say candidly, “I could go to Rohit (Shetty) sir’s office and say ‘sir, would you please consider me for Simmba?’ That’s a privilege. So, the access that my parents have worked so hard to enable me to have is not something that I can deny or something I can run
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away from. But, having said that, which almost sounds like I am getting defensive, which I am not. The tonality of the conversation about nepotism back home has become slightly harsh.” Stating that she hated to be referred to as a star kid, while she had easier access in getting into the industry, ‘if you are not good, you are going to be out soon.’ Sara conceded that she was in a relatively special position since she had signed two films with big names and banners even before audience had any opportunity to test her acting skills. “I am myself shocked that I am in this predicament. But, if I am being honest, I am carrying this burden and little bit of pressure. I am done shooting for the second film without anyone being able to see my acting in the first. I am aware that that is going to be seen by many as unearned opportunities. And when that happens, the pressure is even greater,” she stated.
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HONEST CONFESSIONS I Don’t Want the Best For My Children
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es, you read that right. I don’t want the “best” for my children. There seems to be a rat race for wanting to provide the “best” life for our children. The list starts even before the child is born. We must have the “best” baby shower. Our child must have the “best” shoes, diapers, clothes, extra-curricular activities, the “best” birthdays, presents, vacations. But, this obsession with “best” is only creating one thing: “The best” parenting tragedy. Historically, parents have always strived to provide what they could for their children. The vision and motivation seemed to be to give children the tools they needed to build a life for themselves. Never in history have parents been so obsessed with providing the “best” material things for their children. It’s as if the amount of materialism they can serve to their child is directly proportional to their success as a wonderful parent. So, it’s no surprise that rampant consumerism is a global trend. Superficially, it seems to work great. We no longer need to suppress any desires, no need to delay gratification; if we want it, we buy it. Globalization has made it so affordable to satisfy any material desire. Prices are low, options unlimited, buy it now, pay for it later, have it delivered same
day, scroll through to choose from infinite options, enjoy “suggestions” of what else you might like based on your previous shopping history. It seems like a perfect marriage between unlimited providing and unlimited desiring. The challenge with this seemingly simple and perfect model is that it creates deeper issues within our children. Issues that will outlive us and ensure they don’t feel the “best” about themselves and their lives. By being obsessed with wanting to provide them with the “best” of things, we make them entitled, impatient, dissatisfied. They want more and we feel convinced that if we can’t provide more, we are bad parents because our child feels deprived. Deprivation is not such a bad thing. We fear it like the plague. We don’t want its shadow anywhere near our children. But, in today’s world, you would really do your children a huge favor by depriving them of some things. No, I’m not suggesting you deprive them of food, clothes and basic necessities. But, basic necessities don’t have to be the “best” of luxuries.
it’s just a dollar. Here’s what they are missing. The issue here is not about it being a dollar but about the need to buy something every time we go out. By not getting to buy everything he wants, I’m consciously choosing to offer him a little bit of deprivation, delayed gratification, making choices about what he really wants and seeing that somethings need to be painfully taken out of the shopping cart. Sure, some times I’ll get what he wants but most of the times, I will take the hit for not being the “cool” mom that gives in. We are living in times where we can all afford so much more than previous generations. There is nothing we must really yearn for as it’s all quite attainable. This is where it becomes that much harder and that much more important to model and teach delayed gratification, contentment, conscious refusal to give in to every innocent desire. So, dare to say “no” when you want to say “yes”. Dare to step out of this rat race and you will make it easier for others to step out too. The best gift I can offer my children is delayed gratification. Because I want what’s BUT, BASIC NECESSITIES DON’T good for them, I’ll dare to deprive HAVE TO BE THE “BEST” OF them of the “best” LUXURIES. Like most parents, Dollar Tree is a common stop for me. My 6 year old gets tempted and wants to buy this and that. I tell him he can choose one thing. A lot of people say, come on,
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four-Test series in Australia will depend on their batsmen, Kohli admitted.The campaign in Australia will be the last chance in 2018 for Kohli’s men to match their formidable home form with success abroad and show the world why they are the world’s topranked test side. Kohli has had strong recent returns from India’s fast bowlers, which could be crucial to his hopes of winning the test series Down Under, which begins this month. Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah and Umesh Yadav have all been part of the pace attack in recent tests and India, in Australia are at full strength in that department. The likes of Shami, Ishant and Bumrah were impressive on recent tours of South Africa and England while Umesh became only the third Indian paceman after Kapil Dev and Javagal Srinath to claim 10 wickets in a home test when he helped the hosts to a 10-wicket victory against West Indies in the second Test. “After a long time, we feel like we can pick up 20 wickets every game which I think is a great feeling to have but the whole combination has to come together for us to win series and not just one test match and feel happy about it,” Kohli told reporters ahead of India’s departure for Australia. India, who last lost a test series at home in late 2012 against England, started the year with a 2-1 loss to South Africa but then thrashed debutants Afghanistan at home in a one-off test before flying to England. They lost the five-match series 4-1 before thrashing West Indies 2-0 with both matches ending inside three days. “We are all feeling very good that we have a great bowling attack now but then our batsmen need to step up as well,” Kohli said. “We have spoken again as a team after England and everyone is really keen to correct those things and put in a complete performance. So, we put in complete performance for a day and we want that to last for a series and for that to happen people have to take more ownership in every test match that we play.” Kohli said the contribution from the lower-order batsmen will prove crucial. While he feels the team has made progress despite their losses away from home, head coach Ravi Shastri said the series in Australia will be decided on mental toughness. “It is just seizing those moments, getting tough mentally, when the going gets tough,” former India player Shastri said.
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HEALTH & FOOD USING FOOD TO MAKE A LIFESTYLE CHANGE FOODS FOR A HEALTHY BODY.
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hough not the only factor in a healthy lifestyle, food is a major factor of how we live our lives and in return how life may treat us. It’s believed that to have a happy life, you should consume foods that are good for you! So let’s take a trip around the body and explore foods to help improve your health.
HAIR/NAILS/SKIN
The other most layer of you, that protects you, includes you skin, nails, and hair. These things are made of similar types of cells, so it’s a given that they would benefit from similar foods. 1. Try 1 Tablespoon of Apple cider vinegar in an 8oz glass of water. The results will be obvious after a month but be warned that this habit can take months to develop. ACV tastes awful, even diluted with water. But hold your breath and get that water down in one gulp. Not only will you loose inches off our waist, your skin will glow, and your hair will shine. 2. Fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel and herring, are excellent foods for healthy skin. They are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for maintaining skin health. Omega-3 fatty acids are necessary to keep skin thick, supple and moisturized. In fact, a deficiency in omega-3 fats can cause dry skin. The omega-3 fats in fish reduce inflammation, which can cause redness and acne. They can even make your skin less sensitive to the sun’s harmful UV rays. Fatty types of fish, such as salmon, contain omega-3 fatty acids that can reduce inflammation and keep skin moisturized. They’re also a good source of high-quality protein, vitamin E and zinc. 3. Avocados are high in healthy fats. These fats benefit many functions in your body, including the health of your skin. Getting enough of these fats is essential to keep skin flexible and moisturized. One study in over 700 women found that a high intake of total fat — specifically the types of healthy fats found in avocados — was associated with more supple, springy skin. Avocados are high in beneficial fats and contain vitamins E and C, which are 2018
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important for healthy skin. They also pack compounds that may protect your skin from sun damage.
EYES
Your eyes are the gateway to your soul, and sometimes the first thing people will notice about you. More importantly, your eyes help you discover and appreciate the world, so you should treat them well. 1. Raw Red Bell peppers give you the most vitamin C per calorie. That’s good for the blood vessels in your eyes, and science suggests it could lower your risk of getting cataracts. It’s found in many vegetables and fruits, including bok choy, cauliflower, papayas, and strawberries. Heat will break down vitamin C, so go raw when you can. Brightly colored peppers also pack eye-friendly vitamins A and E. 2. Orange-colored fruits and vegetables -- like sweet potatoes, carrots, cantaloupe, mangos, and apricots -- are high in beta-carotene, a form of vitamin A that helps with night vision, your eyes’ ability to adjust to darkness. One sweet potato also has more than half the vitamin C you need in a day and a little vitamin E.
LIPS
Keep your lips looking bright and luscious. Your lips are usually an indicator of your health. If they seem drained of color, you may need to change your diet, so you may be getting sick! Keep those lips in check. 1. The easiest solution to cracked, chapped lips is to make your own lip balm, preferably with coconut oil that will stabilize at room temperatures and also provide healing benefits. If you make your own, you have more control of quality, and you can be sure that no toxic ingredients go into your lip balm. If you’re out a recipe, look no further than an easy coconut salve recipe we love-it’s made one ingredient and it’s fantastic. Don’t have coconut oil? Well, go ahead and use some castor oil but be warned, it won’t taste as good! 2. If you don’t have any oil to slather on your lips, use some of those cucumbers in the fridge. Just like you can do with
store extra food in your system, causing you to feel bloated and look heavier.” Wiesenberg advises adding chia seeds to your oatmeal, salads or smoothies.
HEART
KNEES (OR BONE HEALTH!)
How important is heart health? I don’t think anyone needs stats or an explanation for this question. If you focus on heart health, you will live a long and healthy life. But remember, that exercise, especially cardio, is also an ideal way to improve heart health. 1. Leafy green vegetables like spinach, kale and collard greens are well-known for their wealth of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. In particular, they’re a great source of vitamin K, which helps protect your arteries and promote proper blood clotting. They’re also high in dietary nitrates, which have been shown to reduce blood pressure, decrease arterial stiffness and improve the function of cells lining the blood vessels. Some studies have also found a link between increasing your intake of leafy green vegetables and a lower risk of heart disease. 2. Berries are rich in antioxidants. Studies show that eating them can reduce multiple risk factors for heart disease.
STOMACH
Who doesn’t want to a couple inches off the waist or reduction in that little belly? Nothing dramatic, off course! We are all beautiful just the way we are, but if you are looking to be a little healthier here are some detoxing stomach food cures. 1. Apple Cider Vinegar – Like above, ASV is a great way to lose inches off your waist! It’s best used with exercise. Take a tablespoon with 8oz of water every morning and wait 45 minutes to eat breakfast. Exercise when you can for optimal results.
If you’re in your 20’s, you may not care about your bones because you’re in the prime of your life. If you’re in your 40’s you might start to feel it crackin’ down. Bone health, like anything else we’ve talked about is preventative so start even when you don’t feel pain! 1. Have beans for supper tonight, especially pinto, black, white and kidney beans. You’ll get another good boost of magnesium and even some calcium. The U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends at least 2-1/2 cups of beans and other legumes (peas, lentils) weekly. Bean-eaters reduce their risk of cancer, heart disease and obesity. 2. Milk is a good source of vitamin D because it is fortified. Cheese, yogurt and ice cream generally aren’t; they contain little vitamin D. Drink nonfat or 1% milk; the others have high saturated fat and cholesterol content. Pour a nice cold glass and enjoy – with or without a cookie. 3. Do eat fruits and veggies. You’ve been told this over and over, but it’s worth repeating. Higher consumption means greater bone mineral density. Researchers can’t say why, but fruits and vegetables are loaded with an array of nutrients that build strong bones. Do exercise. Get at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day. Weight-bearing exercises like running, dancing and lifting weights stress your bones in a good way. This signals your body to make more bone cells.
2. Chia seeds are a must-have, especially when it comes to whittling the waistline, says founder of Tonique Fitness Sylwia Wiesenberg. “Chia seeds are a superfood that will help you lose fat around your midsection,” she explains. “It energizes your body with its rich source of protein. It also keeps you feeling full longer, allowing you to become more regular. This means you won’t
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your eyes, you can slice up some cucumber slices and rub them over your lips for a refreshing feeling that also provides moisture and nutrients
AKSHAY KUMAR
REVEALS THE REAL REASON WHY HE JOINED THE FILM INDUSTRY
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kshay Kumar says he was drawn to the film industry because it offered a lot of money for someone who was struggling back then. The actor started out his film career primarily as an action hero before blooming into an allround star. “I did a lot of action films earlier because I knew nothing else. For 11-13 years, I did only action. I did Thai boxing in Bangkok for five years. Back then I had made up my mind that I’ll come to Mumbai and open a martial arts school.
“I used to get paid Rs. 5,000 a month when I used to teach martial arts. Once someone asked me to do modelling. I tried modelling for a furniture showroom. There was a model and we both posed, and I got Rs. 21,000 within two hours! I thought what better place to be than here! I thought now I’ll do modelling and then eventually entered films,” he said speaking at the World Toilet Summit. He is the Harpic Sanitation Ambassador.
Akshay started his career as an “Honestly, the only thing which action hero but became a star in brought me to the industry was only comedy and romantic genre before money. I just came here to earn mon- switching to varied roles and socially ey,” he said relevant stories. “I must have done about 135-140 films where most of 2018
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my initial films were only action. No producer or director would even look at me thinking ‘He won’t be able to act so just give him action,’ I did that then gradually shifted to comedy and then romantic films,” he said. The actor believes commercial movies with social messages have a wider reach than documentaries. “I personally believe there is no point making documentary films. I’ve seen several times in many villages, sorry to say, but nobody reacts to that. People like to see a commercial film. I consider myself lucky who got an opportunity to do commercial cinema and give people a social message in a very different way,
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DEEPIKA
PADUKONE WINS AWARD FOR ‘MOST FOLLOWED’ INDIAN CELEB ON INSTAGRAM
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ctor Deepika Padukone has become the most followed Indian celeb on Instagram, and has won the award for being the most followed personality on the photo-sharing app. Deepika has been on a joyous ride since the release of her last film Padmaavat, which now ranks among the highest grossing films of all time in India and has solidified her status as the undisputed queen of Bollywood. Now the actor seems to have one more reason to enjoy as, on March 19, Deepika won the Instagram award for being followed the most among all Indian celebrities. With a staggering 22.4 mn followers, Deepika becomes the most followed Indian celeb on Instagram, with Priyanka Chopra (22 mn) grabbing the second spot and Alia Bhatt’s (20.9 mn) taking the third place. Deepika, who likes to be in a constant connection with her fans, said in a statement: “Staying connected with my fans and loved ones is extremely important to me. I value the love, support and connection I share with them and I hope I continue to remain true and authentic.” On the work front, Deepika will be next seen in Vishal Bhardwaj’s upcoming film, which also features actor Irrfan Khan opposite her.
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TUESDAY
ATTORNEY ADAM MALIK 6:00 -6:30PM
WEDNESDAY
WEDNESDAY
ATTORNEY
PALLAVI AHLUWALIA
10:30 -11:00AM MONDAY
ATTORNEY ATTORNEY NOMAN AZHAR SANJAY MATHUR 5:30 -6:00PM
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4:30 -5:00PM
-MEDITATION A USE THE SENSES
lot of people pursue the way of sitting calmly and meditating using a thought, or thought control, a mantra or some specific technique that you learn. But, meditation can become a practice even if you listen, if you see, if you walk. Here are some suggestions to bring about a meditative state of being.
Meditation using your sense of hearing Walk at a relaxed pace. As you walk, pay attention to everything you hear, without judgment. Remind yourself to just listen and NOT judge what you hear.As you walk, breathe deeply and allow your shoulders to relax downward. If you sense any muscle tension take a few deep breaths as you walk. Focus on sensing that the air you breath is helping your muscles to relax. If the sounds seem to be too distracting try switching your focus to one of the other senses for a few steps and notice how the sound seems to diminish as you change your focus. Either stay with your new focus as you complete your walking meditation or switch back to your sense of hearing.
what you see. Do you have a physical reaction to what you see? For example a beautiful flower may elicit a deep inhale of satisfaction or the sight of a slug may give you a little shiver. Rather than passing judgement on what you see, try to be impartial. Remind yourself you are just seeing, not judging. When thoughts and words come into your mind release them, bringing your focus back to just seeing the world around you.
Meditation using your sense of sight. As you walk at a comfortable pace, place your attention on what you see.Really notice the color, shape and texture of objects. Notice also your reaction to 2018
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VIJAY WARMAN HOST - SUFI ROCKERS WWW.MYSTICMANDALA.ORG
MONDAY NIGHTS AT 7 PM & FRIDAY NIGHTS AT 9 PM ON 104.9 FM
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TIPS OF WEIGHT STARTING LUNCH OR DINNER WITH A VEGETABLE SALAD OR BOWL OF BROTH-BASED SOUP.
It’s a well-known fact that there are a lot of people in this country that are overweight. Health-wise it’s about how you look and no one should compare their bodies to other peoples, but medically, obesity causes a lot of issues that can dramatically shorten your life. So it’s important that you work to loose the excess weight you have, and transition to a healthier state of mind. Sure, you can lose weight quickly. There are plenty of fad diets that work to shed pounds rapidly -- while leaving you feeling hungry and deprived. But what good is losing weight only to regain it? 67% of people that have dramatic weight loss regain weight after only 6 months. Why? Because they aren’t making a life-style change. To keep pounds off permanently, it’s best to lose weight slowly. And many experts say you can do that without going on
a “diet.” Instead, the key is making simple tweaks to your lifestyle.
Close the Kitchen at Night. Establish a time when you will stop eating so Weight loss isn’t a linear event over you won’t give in to the late-night time. When you cut calories, you may munchies or mindless snacking while drop weight for the first few weeks, watching television. “Have a cup of for example, and then something tea, suck on a piece of hard candy or changes. You eat the same number enjoy a small bowl of light ice cream of calories but you lose less weight or frozen yogurt if you want something or no weight at all. That’s because sweet after dinner, but then brush when you lose weight you’re losing your teeth so you will be less likely to water and lean tissue as well as fat, eat or drink anything else,” suggests your metabolism slows, and your Elaine Magee, MPH, RD, WebMD’s body changes in other ways. So, in “Recipe Doctor” and the author of order to continue dropping weight Comfort Food Makeovers. each week, you need to continue cutting calories. A calorie isn’t always Choose Liquid Calories Wisely. a calorie. Eating 100 calories of high Sweetened drinks pile on the fructose corn syrup, for example, can calories, but don’t reduce hunger have a different effect on your body like solid foods do. Satisfy your than eating 100 calories of broccoli. thirst with water, sparkling water with The trick for sustained weight loss is citrus, skim or low-fat milk, or small to ditch the foods that are packed portions of 100% fruit juice. Try a
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with calories but don’t make you feel full (like candy) and replace them with foods that fill you up without being loaded with calories (like vegetables). Many of us don’t always eat simply to satisfy hunger. We also turn to food for comfort or to relieve stress—which can quickly derail any weight loss plan. Eat Breakfast Every Day. One habit that’s common to many people who have lost weight and kept it off is eating breakfast every day. “Many people think skipping breakfast is a great way to cut calories, but they usually end up eating more throughout the day, says Elizabeth Ward, MS, RD, author of The Pocket Idiot’s Guide to the New Food Pyramids. Try a bowl of whole-grain cereal topped with fruit and low-fat dairy for a quick and nutritious start to your day.
glass of nutritious and low-calorie vegetable juice to hold you over if you get hungry between meals. Be careful of alcohol calories, which add up quickly. If you tend to drink a glass or two of wine or a cocktail on most days, limiting alcohol to the weekends can be a huge calorie saver. Eat More Produce. Eating lots of low-calorie, high-volume fruits and vegetables crowds out other foods that are higher in fat and calories. Move the meat off the center of your plate and pile on the vegetables. Or try starting lunch or dinner with a vegetable salad or bowl of broth-based soup. Go for the Grain. By substituting whole grains for refined grains like white bread, cakes, cookies, and pretzels, you add muchneeded fiber and will fill up faster so you’re more likely to eat a reasonable portion. Choose whole-wheat breads and pastas, brown rice, bran flakes, popcorn, and whole-rye crackers. Control Your Environments. Another simple strategy to help cut calories is to control your environment -- everything from stocking your kitchen with lots of healthy options to choosing the right restaurants. That means avoiding the temptation by staying away from all-you-can-eat restaurants. And when it comes to parties, “eat a healthy snack before so you won’t be starving and be selective when you fill your plate at the buffet,” suggests Ward. Trim Portions. If you did nothing else but reduce your portions by 10%-20%, you would lose weight. Most of the portions served both in restaurants and at home are bigger than you need. Add More Steps. Get yourself a pedometer and gradually add more steps until you reach 10,000 per day. Throughout the day, do whatever you can to be more active -- pace while you talk on the phone, take the dog out for an extra walk, and march in place during television commercials. Having a pedometer serves as a constant motivator and reminder. Have Protein at Every Meal and Snack. Adding a source of lean or low-fat protein to each meal and snack will help keep you feeling full longer so you’re less likely to overeat. Try low-fat yogurt, small portion of nuts, peanut butter, eggs, beans, or lean meats. Experts also recommend eating small, frequent meals and snacks (every 3-4 hours), to keep your blood sugar levels steady and to avoid overindulging.
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ushmita Sen has been in several relationships, but unfortunately, none of them have lasted. Yet, it now seems that she has finally found her Mr Right.
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hile Arbaaz had remained tightlipped about his relationship status so far, he recently confirmed to an entertainment website that he is dating. However, he quashed reports that he and Giorgia will get married in the near future. “You cannot shut a lot of people. They jump to a conclusion, they jump with certain assumptions. You know it’s okay, it’s alright if they see somebody with someone they want to get them married, they want to...everything has its due course of time,” he said. It is beyond Arbaaz’s understanding why the media would want to “authenticate” such speculation by printing it. He added that he does not have the patience to clarify things. “Do I really have the time to fight and give clarifications for every news that comes about me or about my life or what’s happening? You just have to turn your face the other way and do it at your pace and time and not think too much because they are not gonna stop,” he said. Arbaaz said that people jump to too many conclusions and “sometimes you are proven right in due course of time but, not necessarily always”.
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Ever since she was spotted at the airport with model Rohman Shawl, rumor mills have been working overtime. She had reportedly met him at a fashion gala, a few months ago.Those close to Sushmita say that she and Rohman are very close and there is a whiff of romance in the air. Apart from this, the actress walked the ramp at a fashion show and was accompanied by her daughters and Rohman. Sushmita has usually been open about her relationships, so if the reports are indeed true, Sushmita will reveal the details herself.
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he “jamaibabu (son-in-law)” of Bengal, Amitabh Bachchan, is a constant at the Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF). But it looks like he does not want to be invited to inaugurate the festival. In a video doing the rounds on social media, Amitabh is seen pleading with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee not to invite him anymore. Before you get any ideas, he was only joking. “I requested the chief minister several times not to invite me. I have nothing new to say anymore. But she does not listen, so I had to come back. I have made this request several times, but in English. Now, I’m saying it in Bangla. Mamata di, I hope you understand this time. I can’t do it anymore. Please spare me!” the actor said in flawless Bangla, as the audience burst out laughing.
u of h at al ut ot o
e a, g al a m et y
ef ot g ut I e al w, a. u e. e. e s e
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FAWAD KHAN: Lesser known facts
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rush up your memories if you watched the most talked about 2007 film, Fawad Afzal Khan is one Khuda Ke Liye. Fawad Khan made of the most known faces in his acting debut with the film, which Pakistan and ranks among was the biggest blockbuster of the the highest paid actors. He year, in Pakistan. Fawad played the is no more a fresh face in lead role of Sarmad who becomes a fundamentalist in the film. While India as he is popular for Television shows like Zindagi Khuda Ke Liye turned out to be the highest-grosser of the year, Fawad Gulzar Hai which was aired won the Lux Style Award in the Best in India. Actor category for his performance in the film. Fawad played the lead role of Zaroon Junaid and the serial was a huge hit in India and Pakistan. Fawad Afzal Khan is not just an actor but also a popular singer. He was the lead singer of the Pakistani rock band, Entity Paradigm and released his first album, Irtiqa in 2003. The band produced some of the biggest chartbusters including Rahguzar, Waqt, Kahan hai tu, Hamein aazma and the patriotic number Shor macha. After leaving the band due to his work commitments, he again reunited with the group to perform Bolo bolo in Season 3 of the popular television music series, Coke Studio.
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Fawad Afzal Khan was a model before he took to singing and acting. Standing at about 5 feet 10 inches, the chocolate hero began modeling at the mere age of 13. He has been a part of several commercials and has also walked the ramp with Pakistani actress, Mahira Khan at the India Bridal Fashion Week. Not only this, he also set the ramp on fire at the PFDC L’Oréal Paris Bridal Week Day some time back. For all those drooling over the handsome Pakistani hunk, take a deep breath. The actor is already married to his love, Sadaf Fawad, whom he met at his tuition classes at the age of 17. The two fell head-over-heels in love and got married in 2005 after eight years of courtship. Happily, together since a decade, Fawad and Sadaf are also blessed with a son, Ayaan Khan. Although he is exceptionally talented, Fawad Afzal Khan had thought of becoming an aeronautical engineer or a pilot. He holds a graduation degree in telecom engineering from the National University of Computer & Emerging Sciences, Lahore. But life had other plans for him. He was spotted by filmmaker Anjum Shahzad while performing during a high school play. After making his small screen debut with the show Jutt and Bond, he finally starred in Anjum’s travel and adventure show, Satrangi.
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• FunAsia Kids club is operated and managed by Ambreen Hasnat. • FunAsia Kids Club Radio show is aired every Wednesday from 3-5pm on 104.9 FM, FunAsia Radio. • FunAsia Kids Club is currently looking for volunteers to help conduct activities and manage the club. Email resume to kidsclub@funasia.net or call 214-725-7466 To be a volunteer you must be at least 14years old and be able to commit to attend the once a month meetings.
JOKES What do you get when you cross a snowman with a vampire? Frostbite. Why does Santa Claus like to go down the chimney? Because it soots him! What do snowmen like to eat for breakfast? Frosted Flakes! What is a parent’s favorite Christmas carol? Silent Night.
Email your entries for KidsPages with your name and age to kidsclub@funasia.net before the 15th of every month to be published in the next issue of FA DesiPages Magazine.
Holidays
-BY PRIYAM
Holidays are here, With a lot of Christmas Cheer Santa will come, If you’re not a bum Have no fear The snow will drop, There will be no flop Christmas trees up, Sipping hot cocoa from a cup Perhaps, this year you’ll get to bop All hail the Jolly Fat Man, The reindeer ran Elves working in the shop, Trying not to drop
Santa’s the man with a plan
A TOWN MOUSE AND A COUNTRY MOUSE A Town Mouse and a Country Mouse were friends. The Country Mouse one day invited his friend to come and see him at his home in the fields. The Town Mouse came and they sat down to a dinner of barleycorns and roots the latter of which had a distinctly earthy flavour. The flavour was not much to the taste of the guest and presently he broke out with “My poor dear friend, you live here no better than the ants. Now, you should just see how I fare! My larder is a regular horn of plenty. You must come and stay with me and I promise you shall live on the fat of the land.” So when he returned to town he took the Country Mouse with him and showed him into a larder containing flour and oatmeal and figs and honey and dates. 2018
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The Country Mouse had never seen anything like it and sat down to enjoy the luxuries his friend provided. But before they had well begun, the door of the larder opened and some one came in. The two Mice scampered off and hid themselves in a narrow and exceedingly uncomfortable hole. Presently, when all was quiet, they ventured out again. But some one else came in, and off they scuttled again. This was too much for the visitor. “Good bye,” said he, “I’m off. You live in the lap of luxury, I can see, but you are surrounded by dangers whereas at home I can enjoy my simple dinner of roots and corn in peace.”
Moral : Safety is the first importance.
THE LITTLE CHRISTMANS TREE
THE T HAUNTED CASTLE
his is the story of a little fir tree who dreamt of growing up so that he could go and be a Christmas Tree amongst the Humans. The other, older trees, knew more about life, and they told him that being a tree with the Humans wasn’t as good as all that. But the little fir tree didn’t want to believe the older trees – and he didn’t have long to wait. He was so pleased when one day some children came with their parents to choose a fir tree to decorate their living room. The children adored him at first sight. So he was dug up, then brought into the living room, where he was hung with decoraOnce upon a time, lived a young boy called Maxime. Maxime (or Max as everyone called tions. After they had finished decorating him)little wasfir12 and livedwith in aa smart him, the tree shone thou- house in the village. In the village lived 3000 people but just sand outside lights. the village, in a haunted castle, lived a witch. The witch didn't live alone - she lived with a mosquito who did everything the witch told it to do. The witch was very wicked and Christmas getting andmosquito every- out everywas night she closer sent the bite old theearth people the missed village.so But one during personthose in the thistogood thatinhe’d much one admired the little Christmas Tree. village never felt the mosquito bite and thatdays person was Theup other the village endless when he Max. was shut in thepeople cellar!!inSuddenly The young fir tree thought: “All the bigger he understood that the sure familyhis hadMum left him in the of Max the asked Max to kill the mosquito, so one morning, making didn't seecold him, fir trees were wrong” and he lifted his cellar to keep him healthy. headed out of the village towards the haunted castle. branches even higher so people could Each year, the family dug him up again to put him back into admire him better. living room.whose He wasleg very happy with his newafamily. On his way to the castle, Maxthe met a dwarf was trapped under rock. And Max yes, in the end the bigger trees were wrong about something the withprince all his and freed the dwarf's leg. The dwarf was so grateful Up tillkicked January, herock was the of strength the - some humans are good after all... living that room; then hetostarted to loseMax to the castle to thank him for being so brave. Later in the hebut decided accompany his needles. Now nobody at him,and hid inside for the night. Suddenly, in the middle of the evening, Max foundlooked the castle touched him, or even bothered to gath- noises. Max crept out of bed to see where the noises were night, he was woken by strange er up coming the tiny from needles that fell. Then, the ... and he saw the ghosts. He fled back to bed! whole family decided to put him down into the cellar. The fir tree started to feel very The next morning when Max awoke, he found the witch and her mosquito. Max took a sad that he had even been chosen by the spear and killed the witch, then squashed the mosquito with a flyswatter. When he arrived family. back in the village, all the people in the village were so happy that they crowned Max as the king of days’ the village. married After several wait – itMax seemed nev-a village girl and they lived happily ever after with their many er-ending to him -, the little fir tree was children. replanted. He was so happy to be back in
Contact Information
Phone 214-725-7466
Website: www.funasia.net
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Email: ambreenhasnat@hotmail.com
K UNSTOPPBLE FASHION FORCE! WE LOVE YOUR STUNNING PHOTOSHOOT FOR NOVEMBER VOGUE
areena Kapoor Khan never skips an opportunity to astound us! Making even the most basic style look ultra-glamorous, Kareena is the resident Glamazon of Bollywood. We cannot stop gushing at how Bebo’s smoldering avatar for this photo shoot for Vogue has us hooked and booked! Acing the art of having it all, Kareena Kapoor Khan has been styled fashion director and maverick stylist, Anaita Shroff Adajania. Shot by ace fashion photographer Bikramjit Bose, Kareena cuts a ravishing picture indeed! This year saw Kareena Kapoor Khan embark on a sartorial mission to slam the naysayers and woo us all with her dazzling presence, spinning one
resplendent look after another. Kareena Kapoor Khan has been paving way for contemporaries and future mothers to emulate! The glam squad features makeup artist Mickey Contractor and hairstylist Yianni Tsapatori. With 18 years of experience of working in 60 films and countless moments of sartorial inspiration, who else but Kareena Kapoor Khan could do justice to the Vogue and IWC Schaffhausen Style Icon of The Year award? Here’s your dose of Bebo-licious fashion from Vogue’s photo shoot Red Alert Red never hotter as Kareena stuns in this Alexandre Vauthier number with bold eyebrows, nude lips and wavy hair. Dance Like No One Is Watching Kareena teams a cropped top from Cinq à Sept with red Jimmy Choo ruffled side slit pants, heels, subtle makeup and wild hair. Winter Ready Reinventing cozy knits and tousled hair as the new sexy is Kareena in this B/W picture wearing a sweater from Tods with pants from Asos and flaunting wind kissed hair.
KAREENA KAPOOR KHAN
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Recipe
CHATKHAREY GAJAR KA HALWA INGREDIENTS 2kg Carrots (grated) 250 grams Butter 1 Liter Full Cream Milk 250 ml Full Cream 1 ¼ cups Sugar – 5 - 6 Cardamoms Green – whole (crush them gentle to open the pods) handful Almonds Slivered 3 - 4 Edible Silver Foil
METHOD
AMBREEN HASNAAT
1. Mix all ingredients in a large nonstick cooking pan and let it cook on the highest heat. 2. Let the mixture boil and allow the liquid ingredients to dry. Stir regularly with a wooden spoon. 3. As the mixture starts drying up, the boiling bubbles will jump out of the cooking pan. Protect your hands. You will need to clean your stove later. 4. Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon till all liquid dries up and the butter comes out on the sides. Be careful not to let it burn at the bottom. Your wooden spoon will be able to stand straight once you stick it in to the carrots. 5. Once the halwa cools down transfer it to a serving bowl and garnish with slivered almonds and silver foil. The cooking takes about 2 hours depending on how efficient your stove is.
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BAZIGAAR
COMPLETES 25 YEARS, DIRECTOR MUSTAN SHARES STORIES ABOUT SHAH RUKH KHAN, KAJOL
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hah Rukh Khan-starrer Baazigar faced quite a few hurdles— from a delay in shooting due to communal riots, to not getting an actor to play a negative role—but as the film completes 25 years, the director duo Abbas-Mustan are happy as the film has withstood the test of time. In 1993, Shah Rukh Khan left everyone panicked once more along with his negative performance in Abbas-Mustan’s Baazigar. The film also stars Kajol and Shilpa Shetty in the lead roles. SRK’s quench to avenge the death of his father and sufferings of his mother made him do terrible things to people that destroyed his family. Baazigar was a whole package of drama, crime, thriller, romance and a few bits of comedy. The music of the film was additionally pretty much as good as the absorbing story. While talking to the media, director Mustan got candid about making the film and concerning the lead stars SRK and Kajol. “People still like the film and it is a big compliment to the entire team. The important thing is the maker should be convinced with his own vision as that will reflect on screen. We had a hero playing a negative role. Though it led to the hit pairing of Shah Rukh and Kajol, it was not a romantic film. But it all worked well,” said the director. Mustan, an ardent fan of Manmohan Desai’s cinema, was inspired by the filmmaking style of the renowned director to form the crux of Baazigar as a mother-son story with revenge as backdrop. “In his films, the character of a mother was of utmost importance. We wanted to have that
element in our film. It is all about bringing the right emotion for a film. If the mother-son relationship is explored and justified properly on screen, then it definitely strikes a chord with audience. If a son is taking revenge for his mother, then his every sin is forgiven. And it worked well with the audience,” he said. The makers felt veteran actor Rakhee Gulzar was the perfect choice to play a distressed mother to Shah Rukh’s character. It was Rakhee who had told the director duo to change the climax of the film and so they shot two endings for the movie.
We told him to keep the photograph in hispocket. Shah Rukh instead thought of tearing the photo and swing it in his mouth. There have been so many things that he did spontaneously” Initially, the makers were planning to take Juhi Chawla to play Kajol’s character. However, they wanted a fresh pairing. Why did they think Kajol would be apt? Mustan reveals, “Whenwe went to Kajol, she was so lively and jovial, we felt she might not be able to understand the script and her role. She showed her maturity during the shoot and remained focused. Shilpa too worked very hard. When asked how Baazigar’s story is We felt if an artiste or actor is bigger compared to 1991 Hollywood film than the film then it will not work,” A Kiss Before Dying, the director Mustan adds. cleared, “Our film is totally different from this Hollywood movie. Only He recalls the movie received one shot where a man throws a girl overwhelming response from across off the terrace, we just had that scene the globe and they witnessed it during where Shah Rukh’s character throws the film’s US and UK screenings. Shilpa off the terrace to her death. That film has no track of mother- Well, we can’t believe the film was son. it’s there in our film.” released 25 years ago and that Talking about Shah Rukh Khan’s makes us feel old! performance, he said, “He used to shoot one scene in four-five different ways. He contains a large vary as an actor.
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YAMI GAUTAM
URI ACTOR: STORIES ON WOMEN HEROES FROM THE ARMED FORCES MUST BE DONE
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ami Gautam, who will next be seen in the upcoming film Uri, says there is a need for stories of more stronger women on the silver screen. Yami is excited to be a part of a real life story based on the armed forces. So much so, that it instantly inspired her to hope to bring forth stories of women who have been trailblazers and pioneers in the armed forces in India. “With the way content is evolving and such compelling stories coming out, there’s a great need for stories of more stronger women. Some amazingly strong powerful women characters have been seen in recent films,” Yami said in a statement. The 29-year-old actor is inspired by two women Punita Arora, the first woman in India to attain the rank of Lt. General in the Indian Army and Priya Jhingan who wrote a letter to the then Army Chief in 1992 to be accepted as a woman in the armed forces and a year later she was, becoming the first Indian woman to have joined the Army. Yami said that when she was shooting for Uri, she was very intrigued largely with the stories of personnel from the armed forces. She said: “It truly does make me wonder if stories of women from such background is something that could make for compelling stories. We have incredible women heroes from the army, navy who have done incredible acts in their careers. “I think these stories must be done and Uri has really been a reason to bring forth such a thought to me.” 2018
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Uri also stars Vicky Kaushal, who will be seen playing the role of an Indian commando who is involved in the 2016 surgical strikes. Based on the surgical strikes of 2016 carried out by the Indian Armed Forces, Uri traces the significant event. It also features Kirti Kulhari and Paresh Rawal in lead roles. Produced by RSVP movies, Uri will hit the theatres in January 2019.
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Arab Texas Festival
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KAREOKE NIGHT Every Last Friday of the month at FunAsiA Richardson
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Dewali Mela
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DJ PAROMA
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SUKHAN CONCERT
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IT’S T-SERIES
A
Who rules YouTube?
s T-Series leads the way, other Indian media companies have also built up major presences on YouTube. Three Indian channels are on Socialblade’s list of the top 10 most influential YouTube channels: T-Series, ZeeTV and YRF. Western companies are investing in the country as well, with Sony Music India averaging 474 million views a month. Their collective success could be just the beginning of an Indian content boom. India is the secondmost populous country in the world, with more than 1.35 billion people — and according to Bain & Co., only 34 percent of the country is online, compared with 89 percent
Swift? Bieber? Nope.
of Americans. That number will continue to grow as infrastructure improves and consumers look to diversify their viewing habits beyond music. In a phone interview, Allison Stern, Tubular Labs’ co-founder and chief strategy officer, compared T-Series’ success to that of Vevo during YouTube’s growth period in the early 2010s. “As these waves of audiences come online, it feels like music is the first thing that brings people there — and then holds them and trains them to come to YouTube for content,” Stern said. “After that you get kids content, gaming content — all these other verticals that unfold.” T-Series is finding a growing
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audience not just in India but also outside of it. Just less than half of T-Series’ traffic comes from India, with 12 percent coming from the United States. In 2016, the company signed a licensing deal with Amazon for film releases. Kalyan hopes to court Indian populations around the world and produce crossover Bollywood artists who can match the global appeal of South Korea’s BTS or Puerto Rico’s Bad Bunny — and in the process, make T-Series a household international name. “Bollywood is no longer restricted to India only,” Kalyan said. “The world is becoming flat.”
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S O NAKS H I S I N H A GOOD LOOKS WERE NEVER IN THE FOREFRONT ,FOR ME Actress Sonakshi Sinha, last seen onscreen in Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi, says looking good was never a priority in her life. Sonkashi was interacting with media at India’s biggest health show ‘Future of Wellness 2018’ in Mumbai. Talking about her transformation journey form flab to fit, Sonakshi said, “For me while growing up, it was never about looks because this (acting) is not what I wanted to do in life.” She said she wanted to be a fashion designer, marine biologist and an astronaut at different phases of her life. “So, I wanted to do a lot of things which is why good looks were never in the forefront for me.” “I was a complete tom-boy. My whole life revolved around sports... I was good at sports, in speaking and in my school work. So, I had all these things to be confident about, but unfortunately, a lot of girls don’t have that mind space. I would like them to have that mind space.” Her advice on fitness? “I think results are the biggest motivator and any woman when she sees results on herself will want to improve on them and keep at it. I think fitness should be a way of life no matter what profession you are in.” She says it’s important to be happy in life. “Until you are happy from within, it’s not going to show outside. I think if you want to transform yourself then, you first need to train your mind then your body will follow that,” she said. Sonkashi Sinha will be seen onscreen in Abhishek Varman’s Kalank. It also features Aditya Roy Kapoor, Varun Dhawan, Alia Bhatt, Sanjay Dutt and Madhuri Dixit Nene in lead roles.It is scheduled to release in April 2019.
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LIFE IN THE USA VERSUS LIFE IN INDIA India is one of the fastest growing economies in the world and is slotted to become the third largest global economy by 2030, meaning your business endeavor will be a fruitful one. However, if you’re planning on moving from the USA to India, the vast differences in lifestyle, culture, and way of doing business can seem very intimidating. It’s good to know before you go, so here are some differences between living and working in the USA vs. India. Renting a one room apartment in a city center in India will cost you around $200, while in the USA prices land around $1000. This is a huge difference and applies across the board whether you’re talking groceries, utilities, or entertainment. The same goes for salary; being able to earn a similar salary in India as in the USA translates to a high standard of living in India. If you are a skilled professional, it’s possible to earn between $4,000 – $5,000 per month which is great considering how much you’ll save on living costs. In the USA, on the other hand, you can make between $6,000 – $7,000 as a skilled professional – which isn’t significantly high enough to guarantee good savings due to the higher cost of living in the States.
benefit in India could definitely make life easier for you as you can hone your focus on growing your business as opposed to spending time on household upkeep. Although both English and Hindi are considered to be official languages of India, it’s impossible to consider moving to this country if you plan on relying solely on your English skills. While English can be applied in the business world, outside the office is a whole different story. 80% of people in India speak or understand Hindi, making it the most widely used language in the nation. English, on the other hand, is understood and spoken by less than 50% of the population. In the USA you may be able to get by with just English, but in India this is simply not the case.
This seems like an odd topic, but electricity has long been a must-have in the USA as opposed to the commodity it is in India. The average Indian uses around 96% less electricity than the average American and this isn’t necessarily by choice. Power cuts are a common occurrence even in some of the larger Indian cities when the government is trying to conserve energy. For many Americans, it can be a big shock to have to become accustomed to going without electricity for a couple hours every day. Living in India versus living in the USA The possibility of power shortages in India is something you should definitely keep in definitely has its pros and cons and mind as you prepare to move abroad. exploring what those are is essential to being well prepared for your potential Let’s say you move to India and you decide it might be beneficial to pursue an MBA move. If you’re serious about bridging the or some other advanced degree. There are quite a few things to consider when doing gap between the USA and India, you may this. No doubt, higher education is much cheaper in India. You can get an advanced want to consider going the extra mile and education at a good private university for around $15,000 per year. In the USA, you’d taking some excellent Hindi language be lucky if you only paid $15,000 per semester at a state school – generally you’ll classes. If you feel unsure about where end up dumping around $50,000 per year into your education. However, having a you stand language-wise, a placement degree from an American university can do you more good in the long run simply exam is the perfect way to figure out because degrees from the USA are globally held in higher regard than those from your level and progress! Knowing Hindi India. You’ll just need to choose between paying a lot for a more ‘valuable’ degree, will not only be essential when it comes or paying less for the same education but having a degree considered of lesser value. to enrolling in university, hiring domestic We’ve already covered cost of living, so let’s take this a step further and look at hiring help, or looking for a great apartment, domestic help. Labor is extremely cheap in India which means that most middle-class but will also be priceless as you begin families can afford to hire a maid and at times a driver. This is a pretty foreign concept navigating the fascinating customs and in the USA as cost of labor is higher and the average citizen would not be able to cultural differences between India and hire someone to clean their home or cook for them. In India, you can hire a live-in the USA. cook and maid for around $200 per month while in the USA you’ll end up paying this per week just to have a maid come in a couple times to clean only. Having this 2018
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THE FESTIVE DIMENSION I am bringing a new version of religion to the world. This is the boldest attempt ever made to acept life in it’s multidimensions, to enjoy it, to celebrate it, to rejoice in it. Renunciation is not my way, but rejoicing. Fasting is not my way, but feasting. And to be festive is to be religious. My definition of re religion is the festive dimension.
No other animal can be festive. no other animal knows anything about festivals. Porpoises can play, chimpansees can play, only man celebrates. Celebration is the highest growth of consciousness, expression, manifestation,flowering of the golden flower. I teach you celebration, Celebration is my key. And I teach you : clebrate your sex, it is a God- given gii; celebrate your body, it is God’s grace. Celebrate each moment that has been given to you, each breath, each
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heartbeat. It is such a benediction. Live God right now! I don’t give you god as a goal. I make god available to you right now, this very moment. Celebrate and you are in God. The old religions were sad. The old religions were serious.. My religion is that of playfulnes: everything has to be taken into the mood of playfulness. Don’t take life seriously.It is fun.And to take it as fun is to be prayerful.Then there is no complaint. Then there is only gratefulness. The question is important. A few things will be helpful. The There are people who are pathological, and the pathological mind has dominated in the past. those people cannot enjoy, they don’t know how to enjoy. Because they are incapable of enjoying.They make a great virtue out of it. Non-enjoyment be-
www.oshouniversal.org
I love life. That’s why I give teachings of celebration. Celebrate everything. Fom body to soul, physical to spritual, sex to superconsciousness,everything is divine for me. comes virtue. Everybody is born with the capacity to enjoy, but not with the art . People think that just because they are alive and they breathe and they exist, so they know how to enjoy. That is sheer stupidity. Enjoyment is great art, it si a great discipline. It is as subtle a discipline as music or poetry or painting. It is the greatest creativity. pai People are born and they start thinking they areready to enjoy life , and they cannot enjoy because they don’t know how to enjoy it. They make a mess out of their lives. and sooner or later when you are making a mess, there are only two possibilities. One
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Osho,The Festive Dimension #31
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is, think that you are being stupid with life- that hurts the ego. The other is : that life is worthless, that life is misery.“There is no joy in life that is why I am not enjoying it. Nothing is wrong with me. If there is something wrong it is in the very structure of life itself.” This has been the approach in the past. “If I cannot see light then there is no light”not that I am blind. “If I canot hear sound, then there is no sound”- not that I am deaf.
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GIVE THE BEST IN EVERYTHING YOU DO GIVE THE BEST IN EVERYTHING YOU DO
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ut your heart into everything you do and the result would be positive. If not success you will at least achieve a sense of complete satisfaction. Give it your best! Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, others make it happen -Michael Jordan Giving 100% in everything you do ALWAYS leads you to greater things in life. The workers who go above and beyond in this world are almost always rewarded with better positions or pay rises. Those who train harder, study harder and give more of themselves will always get more out of their life than those who take it easy, that’s just common sense. Give your best, give everything you have to get your best possible result, if it doesn’t work out at least you will have the pride of knowing you gave it your best shot. At worst you will have also learned as much as you can along the way, and those who are committed to learn more in life will almost always be the same people who earn more and become more. Your path will reveal itself in time. When you really know what you want to do with your life, when you find something you must do, that is when you must lock in and say THIS IS IT that is when you tell yourself I’M ALL IN. FAILURE IS A STEPPING STONE TO SUCCESS One failed test doesn’t mean anything Bill gates failed in all his test while his classmate cleared all. Today Bill gates own Microsoft and his classmate is his employee. When you get out on the field of life, no one
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wants the guy who passed every test, they want the guy who was willing to fight for his dream. The one who had the character to fight back after failing – that guy is much more valuable in the real world than someone with book knowledge. Work on your education, also work on yourself just as much. Build some mental strength – it’s much more important than passing a test. You cannot win in life, if you’re losing in your mind. If your mind is strong, then your LIFE will be strong. Do what you need to do so that, at the very least, you can look back someday and say, “I gave life my best shot.” This is a poem about the state of the mind. It is CRUCIAL to put your beliefs in check, for they will manifest the reality of your life.
If you think you are beaten, you are. If you think you dare not, you don’t. If you like to win but think you can’t It is almost certain you won’t. If you think you’ll lose, you’re lost. For out of the world we find Success begins with a fellows’ will. It’s all in the state of mind. If you think you are outclassed, you are. You’ve got to think high to rise; You’ve got to be sure of yourself before You can ever win a prize. Life’s battles don’t always go To the stronger or faster man; But sooner or later the man who wins Is the man who thinks he can. ~Walter D. Wintle
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KANGANA RANAUT
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ctress Kangana Ranaut will be seen playing the fearless freedom fighter Rani Laxmi Bai on the celluloid soon in Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi. On her 190th birth anniversary, the actresstalks about how the legendary freedom fighter inspired her. She says, “When Akhand Bharatwas agreed upon, she really believed in new age India and fought for it. I think the best way togive her a tribute is to value what we have today and to make Bharat a glorious country and world power. She was a true patriot who wanted her country to be a glorious one. I think topursue her dream would be the best way to give her a tribute.” The movie which is mounted on a really large scale sees a team of national awardees come together for a film. Right from Kangana Ranaut to Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy who are giving the music of the film, to Prasoon Joshi – it’s a dream team that has come together. Not just that, Hollywood action choreographer Nick Powell has designed all the stunts in the film. Actress Kangana Ranaut says she values freedom because of Rani Laxmibai.have grown up
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listening to Rani Laxmibai's legend and folklore like all of us but at the same time I did not know the intensity of her life. Her youth had gone in battling the enemy and preparing the regular people to become warriors," Kangana said. "What was unknown about her life is that she fought for many things that are acceptable today like adoption and women empowerment. She was completely against untouchability and she neither believed in caste system. She was a Brahmin who fought like Kshatriyas. She fought against Bargad Pratha, Parda system, caste system and untouchability. She fought for all these things relentlessly and conquered all those. She was a visionary and I value the freedom that we have because of her a lot more," she added. Produced by Kamal Jain, Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi, directed by Radha Krishna Jagarlamudi, is slated to release in January 2019. Kangana will be bringing her life alive on the big screen.
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SHAH RUKH KHAN
IN AN INTERVIEW ON HIS UPCOMING MOVIE ZERO AND HIS RELATIONSHIP WITH SALMAN.
Excerpts: Salman Khan has done a cameo in your film, Zero. We hear that he had also referred the subject to you. Is that true? You know, Aanand sir was very clear about two things — to cast Katrina and to release the film on a fixed date in December. And I think amid all these discussions, Salman came to know about the idea. I think Katrina might have mentioned…. And then one day he came home and said, ‘Yeh role zaroor kariyo’. That’s Salman. He even said, ‘Mast picture hai ekdum’. Both of you have done cameos in each other’s films. So, these must be something more than just professional decisions… We were playing pool at home after wrapping up our Meerut shoot. Aanand (L Rai) sir said, ‘Woh ek gaana hai…’ and we were talking about it. He said if Bhai was there it would be very nice. We all call Salman, ‘Bhai’. I said, ‘Ok, main baat karta hoon unse’. And suddenly Pooja, my manager, told me that Salman had called and said he was coming over as he had a gift for me. Raat ek-do baje thay. He came around 20 minutes later with two Being Human cycles and I told him there’s this song in the film. Aanand sir said, ‘Agar bhai yeh ganaa karein toh…’ And he said, ‘Date bata do. Meri picture release horahi hai. Kuchh din free hoon main. Main woh (gaana) kar raha hoon.’ And the song wasn’t even written! We thought it was just night banter, stopped talking about it, had our food and he went after two-three
h o u r s Next morning, Aanand sir asks me, ‘Usne toh bol diya’. I said, ‘Bol toh diya, par hamare paas ganaa bhi nahi hai’. Then Pooja came and said he can’t shoot on the first of the next month as something had come up, but he’s free the next three days. So we put up the set, then made the song, and then we shot it (laughs)! So how do you define your relationship with Salman? have a lot of respect for Salman and his family and for me, no relationship is bigger than respect. It’s the same for Aamir also. Because when I was new, and these two were two-three years my senior. And these two people, who I had seen in my final year in college or just after that as some of the biggest stars of the country, embraced me and were really sweet and intelligent — because they never behaved special. They just made me feel like I had found friends. And maybe my nature of not behaving like a star stems from both of them. At that time they were the hugest stars in the country, with Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak, Maine Pyaar Kiya, but they behaved like normal kids, just like my friends in Delhi.
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So, I’ve had that relationship with them. Many a time when people say inka jhagda hai, yeh hai, woh hai, we don’t even talk about it. It’s a very different relationship. That respect will always surmount everything that I have. How did your children react to the trailer of Zero? My son called up from America and said, ‘It’s magical’. Millions aspire to be a hero and here you seem to be going against the tide with Zero... The definition of hero in Greek theatre is someone who overcomes the obstacles within himself. The idea is to wage a battle against your inner demons and win over them. If you are not being able to do so, the emotional shortcomings and your weaknesses, then you remain a zero. Hopefully, this one will become a hero. WIs there a significance of the number zero? The title Aanand sir had thought. There were a couple of options, but he felt that this signifies a complete circle. The film is about celebrating incompleteness. Aanand sir believes that all of us have some incompleteness; sometimes it’s physical, sometimes it’s emotional. None of us are perfect. The idea is to overcome the shortcomings and live life happily. The philosophy of Zero is the same. It may look like nothing but it’s everything. Hum picture mein nahin bolte aisa; our film is very funny and sweet.
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Family affairs and emotional matters will dominate this month. Domestic projects can be taken up after the 22nd and you will have no problem executing them. You will be interested in carnal pleasures this month. You will be highly aggressive and independent. You have all the energy to get things done and do not require the help of others. There is no need for flexibility or social grace for in December 2018.
The focus will be on career this month .You are aware of personal and social responsibilities and you are taking all the steps to fulfill them. You are concentrating on your future prospects and working out strategies to accomplish them. It is time to be more aggressive and to take necessary actions to achieve your objectives. There is no need for depending on others and conditions.
Professional objectives and worldly desires will be in focus this month. Emotional security and family welfare will be in the background. Future prospects will be of interest to you than past accomplishments. You are looking for status and prestige in the society. You can attain your goals with your own efforts. Interests of others are not in the picture and social skills are not needed. There is no need to adapt to conditions and people. Personal desires need to be attended to in the month of December 2018.
Career issues and ambitions will dominate over family concerns and emotional security this month. You are more concerned with other’s families and your future prospects. Social grace is required to accomplish your desires and you have to be flexible enough to follow people and situations. You cannot assert and push through his agenda without the help of others in December 2018.
Career and worldly ambitions will be predominant this You are looking at the future than delving into the past. Family happiness and psychological interests are pushed behind for the present. You are not dependent on conditions and people. Social grace is not necessary as you have enough potential to accomplish things on your own. You are dictating your terms and others have no choice but to accept them.
Career development and outer ambitions will be in focus this month. Family and emotional aspects of your personal life will give way to the happiness of other families. Interest of others is more important, and you are achieving success with the help of others. There will be plenty of energy and action resulting in wonderful growth. You are adjusting to situations and people admirably in December 2018.
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Career and your future ambitions will take precedence over emotional issues and family welfare. Family cannot be disregarded completely due to the influence of the Mercury Retrograde.. You are dependent on social grace and you have to be flexible enough to listen to others. You will have the support of others after the 22nd.
Family concerns will dominate over professional growth. You are more involved with your past memories than future development. You can learn from your past experiences and they will guide you in the future. You are focusing on solving problems in relationships and the house where you are staying will undergo renovation and refurnishing in December 2018.
The emphasis will be on psychological issues and family affairs. Career and personal ambitions will be on the back burner this month. Leo personality will be more preoccupied with the past than planning for future development. You have to keep the interests of others in mind and cut down your assertiveness. You are dependent on social skills and you must have the support of others to accomplish your goals
Emotional happiness and family issues are more important this month. career issues and future ambitions are pushed at the background. You are looking at your past achievements and are lost in their memories. You are autonomous and assertive, and your energy levels are high. You are creating your own heaven and are not dependent on others. Social skills and adaptability are not necessary to achieve your goals. You can mold people and situations to your advantage in December 2018.
Emotional security will dominate this month .Career and future ambitions will not be in focus for Virgos in the month of December 2018. Your house will undergo renovation or there may be a change of residence. You will be happy looking at your past successes than strategizing for the future.
Affairs and psychological happiness are more important this month. Career issues and outer ambitions are in the background. You are more living in the past and not very much concerned about the future. This will make self-interests more important than welfare of others. You are more dominating and you will dictate the terms. Situations and people are under the control of you and there is no need for exercising social skills. You have all the energy to accomplish your goals on your own.
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