Notch (2013 03) by Natariis

TEAM CREDITS EDITORIAL

DESIGN

Yagna Balaji Editor

Majid Rehman Creative Director

Bijoy Bharathan Assistant Editor

Tushar A. Amin Entertainment Editor

Rohit Panikker Senior Sub-Editor

Arpita Chatterjee Spl Correspondent - Mumbai

Asmita Aggarwal Bureau Chief - Delhi

Anupriya D Content Manager

Matha-Ul-Ameen, Karishma Menon Rityka Venessa Edwin M. Saravanan Kalyani Graphic Design

Gayathri K Sornavel Animation Jegannathan.S Illustration

MARKETING Bruce Schwack Executive Director Manoj Kumar Online Marketing Manager

Hema Sethuraman Director & Publisher Pradeep Dadha Chairman, NOTCH Media Pvt. Ltd. PRADEEP DADHA GROUP OF COMPANIES

BOARD OF ADVISORS Advait Pandit Anand Pathak

Ravi Krishnan Yathin Reddy

NOTCH Media Pvt. Ltd.

5th floor, Express Chambers, Express Avenue, No. 2, Club House Road, Mount Road, Chennai 600 014 Tel: +91 44 30254141/42 Fax: +91 44 30254158 www.notchmag.com COPYRIGHT ÂŠ NOTCH MEDIA PVT. LTD. 2012

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NOTCH ��

Do you believe in playing it safe? Or do you choose to push the boundaries?

t NOTCH, the answer is obvious. We push the boundaries with every single page, every article and every element of design. And that’s why each edition of NOTCH is a celebration - of imagination and creativity. Our cover girl for the month, Chitrangda Singh, too pushed boundaries all her life. She took the unconventional route of marriage and motherhood before movies, but soon acted on her desire for an identity, and carved a niche for herself in Bollywood.

Award winning photographer AJ Raina pushed the boundaries while shooting Chitrangda. And the result is an edgy photo-shoot that presents the star like never before. Illusion, surrealism and symbolism bring to life a story of conflict and ultimately triumph, as the star’s journey is represented through his storybook images. Contradictions depicted by twins attached by an unbroken cord; Woman on Top as a tribute to her bold and brilliant creative performances and finally Self Portrait – Chitrangda being filmed by her larger-than-life alter ego, a sign of achievement. Another fairytale that needs a special mention is our columnist Shabinaa Khan’s recount of her intimate friendship with Shah Rukh Khan. The actor has a knack for courting controversy, but Shabinaa’s heartfelt piece about him humanizes the star, taking us through his early days in a one-bedroom apartment to sharing a little known gem of information – the untold story of how he bagged his career-defining film Darr. One more example of success achieved by NOT playing it safe. There’s a lot of be said for breaking rules, for not following the beaten path, and for taking chances. So, as we march ahead with our 6th edition, let me leave you with this one question – “When was the last time you did something for the first time?”

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EVERYMAN’S FASHIONISTA Aneeth Arora on uncomplicated couture

people

fashion

�� YEH SAALI ZINDAGI Chitrangda Singh opens up on living life on her own terms

NAEEM KHAN Romancing the red carpet

NORAH JONES Needs no happy pills

LIVE LIFE, SRK SIZE Shabinaa Khan on friendships in Bollywood

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travel

OLIVE BRUNCH Chef Manu Chandra’s winning recipes

GETTING CHUGGY WITH IT Monisha Rajesh discovers India on a rail

food

people

SHOE OFF Footwear for the sun sign

DESTINY’S CHILD Bhavana Reddy’s Grammy moment

CALLING THE SHOTS Sheetal Mallar turns photographer

people

fashion

SHWETA NANDA Family comes first

ROCK DJ Robbie Williams comes clean

cinema

DARK HORSE ‘My struggling days are behind me,’ says Randeep Hooda

DOUBLE IMPACT Jacqueline Fernandez’s penchant for sequels

MIRA NAIR Countess of Crossover

MADHURI DIXIT The million dollar smile is back DATE WITH DESTINY Sheetal Dewan predicts

wellness

cinema

DEEPIKA PADUKONE Of cocktails and dreams

CLONK MARRY BONK MALLIKA, RAKHI & SHERLYN There are only three courses of action one can take

NAIL IT Get funky with two tone nail polishes

SHEEN AND SEEN How to get that disco look

NOTCH LIT In our digital library BIPASHA BASU Dancing your way to fitness

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Runway Success India-born designer Naeem Khan reveals why Michelle Obama likes his clothes, how he was inﬂuenced by Halston and how India comes alive in his magniﬁcent creations Asmita Aggarwal

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aeem Khan remembers that it was a rainy day in Mumbai when he suddenly decided that he wanted to go to America. He was in school then — and he did go to the US. But rather than studying, he joined American style guru Roy Halston Frowick and miraculously, landed on his feet! “When I came to the US in the 70s, it was crazy, wild. I worked

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for Halston, who was a great teacher, way back in 1978 -79 and with him I met people who redefined style like (Rodolfo) Gucci, Andy Warhol, Martha Graham and Liza Minnelli,” recalls Naeem. These experiences made Naeem even more determined to make it big in fashion. He worked tirelessly for a year to create a collection with Halston and as he says he was careful not to mess up the incredible breaks he’d been given. “I used all the great opportunities to achieve my goals.”

show and his Spring lines. Nearly 50 looks in total! “We don’t intend to sell in India — we just intend to make you aware of Naeem Khan,” he says adding, “India is one of the richest and oldest cultures in the world, but for me it is a quest to modernise, twist and change what I know and where I come from. I learnt so much as a child, from my dad and loving grandfather — how to combine colours, work with embroideries — I apply all that to the contemporary woman. What you see on the ramp is mostly inspired by India.”

“Michelle Obama’s a fabulous person! When you dress someone so real with such good intentions for the world, it’s a rare honour” The man who grew up in India — and has been married to his childhood sweetheart Ranjana, a well-known jewellery designer for 30 years — is finally ready to revisit his roots with a luxurious show at the IMG Lakme Fashion Week. This is the first time since Naeem Khan left Mumbai to chase his dreams that he will be showing in his birthplace. And yes, the catwalk will come alive with the beautiful beaded gowns that the First Lady Michelle Obama loves as well as billowing evening gowns — glamorous, theatrical, wearable… a sort of combination of his Fall 2013 ��

Maybe it’s his love for hand-crafted garments that won him fans like Michelle Obama (in January, this year at the Washington National Cathedral, she wore a custom-made, wool-appliqué coat embellished with jewels and a matching dress by Naeem Khan). “She’s a fabulous person! When you dress someone so real with such good intentions for the world, it’s a rare honour! She admires art and craft so I think she appreciates the

effort that goes into my creations. I’m so happy she’s chosen to wear my clothes,” he declares. Nursing a bad throat and sounding exhausted after the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in New York, Naeem says in his Bachchanesque voice, “Fashion is a tough business to be in, you are as good as your last collection. It just takes one bad show to lose all your popularity and celebrity clients.” Celeb support is very important for Naeem, as the rich and famous are those who many aspire to be like. For him, “celebs become my brand ambassadors. An actress wearing your dress on the red carpet is somebody who gives your brand a stamp of approval,” he confirms. And the man, who has dressed Beyonce Knowles, Penelope Cruz, Eva Longoria, Lea Michele, Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga, Carrie Underwood, Florence Welch, Emily Blunt, and Queen Noor of Jordan, says it isn’t easy to get the red carpet look just right! “It’s not just about embroidery on a beautiful evening dress it’s about style... a concept. It’s also about placements, understanding the person who’ll be wearing your creation and ��

where she’ll be wearing it. There’s a very fine line between vulgar and elegant. So you must know how to put things in the right perspective. That’s what makes a good designer.” Unlike most designers, who come from India and have settled in the US, Naeem does not know his contemporaries in India (he says he’s only seen Manish Arora’s show in Paris). “Bibhu Mohapatra, Prabal Gurung and Rachel Roy whom I care for and admire are Indians living in America.” Having said that, Naeem says he loves Rajesh Pratap Singh’s shirts. “He makes beautiful shirts, I love his work — he has a great taste for fashion, his impeccable craftsmanship, dexterity, fit, attention to detail is stunning.” Despite growing up in Mumbai, Naeem is not a big Bollywood fan but he would love to do a Bollywood film. “I don’t watch Indian films, I have no time. But if an exciting project comes my way, I will take it up,” he confirms from his plush New York office. However, what Naeem is coming to India to do is to collaborate — maybe do a line of cosmetics, fragrances and accessories out of India. “We can create magic together! I have amazing ideas, let’s see where it all goes from here,” he says excitedly.

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Ordinary INSPIRED BY THE

Meet Aneeth Arora, a designer whose apparel is inspired by the dressing styles of the aam janta Asmita Aggarwal

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neeth Arora is a textile revivalist or dressmaker – a thinking ‘designer’ whose innate humility and dedication to her craft has found her fans around the world like Mira Nair, Arundhati Roy, Kate Hudson, Kiran Rao and Woody Allen.

Aneeth isn’t overawed by big names. Setting the record straight she says, “In To Rome with Love, a journalist is seen wearing a Pero (my label) shirt. Neither Woody nor his team contacted me – they must have picked it up from one of the many stores across the world to which I supply. Mira Nair’s The Reluctant Fundamentalist also features some scarves designed by me. Pero scarves retail in stores across Europe so they could have been picked up at any point! Mira does patronise Pero and she appreciates my sensibilities. Women like her are intelligent dressers. They do not like to be over-dressed or stand out in a crowd,” she smiles. Aneeth who likes to work in her studio in Delhi, incorporates Jamdanis from West Bengal, block printing from Kutch, Ikats from south India, Bandhinis from Rajasthan and Chanderis and Maheshwaris from Madhya Pradesh into her style statement. She also loves lace as much as she adores Indian textiles. And her Spring-Summer 2013 line pays homage to this delicate fabric.

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“I travel all over the world for my shows and I just fell in love with European lace. I like anything that is handcrafted. I don’t want to limit myself as I am a lover of all things beautiful!” she exclaims.

“I am inspired by ordinary people. When I did my patchwork collection, I was told my clothes looked is detached from the diktats like they were meant for Aneeth of what’s in or out. She describes her beggars!” clothing as ‘instinctive’, a bit intellectual, no bling, no Swarovski or embroidery – she lets the fabric do the talking. “My clothes are for daily wear. You can’t wear them on the red carpet and look glamorous. I don’t know if I was the right choice for the Vogue award for young designers. I think they wanted someone who embodied Indian values, maybe that’s why I was chosen,” she confesses. Aneeth chooses to stay close to her roots. She was once mesmerised by the checked lungis and crochet skull caps worn by Muslims stationed outside a mosque in Lucknow. “I am inspired by ordinary people going about their daily lives. When I did my previous collection (patchwork), I was told my clothes looked like they were meant for beggars. I just laughed,” she adds. Next on the cards is home furnishing, which is a growing market in India. Aneeth hopes to launch her first line by mid-2013. “Home accessories seem exciting to me right now. I like doing things that are fun. I’ll quit if it gets too much but at the moment it’s an invigorating process!” she concludes ��

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The Reclusive

“Isn’t it enough that four people in one family are so prominent?” asks Shweta Nanda, as she opens up on the Bachchans and why she stays away from the limelight Asmita Aggarwal

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Images: Yogen Shah

ttired in an armoured dress by Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla, Shweta Bachchan Nanda, the statuesque daughter of Bollywood’s first family adroitly ducks lensmen and hacks at the launch of the book India Fantastique at Delhi’s Imperial Hotel. Mother of two teenage kids - Agastya and Navya Naveli - Shweta describes herself as a housewife and loving mom. “I learnt everything from my mom from raising kids to keeping a home, even a thing or two about fashion,” she says. ‘White is always right and tres chic’, is one lesson that Jaya Bachchan taught a 15-year-old Shweta and it is something that has stayed with her. As far as fashion statements go, Shweta admits that she likes to be comfortable and “for me that takes predominance over everything else. The word ‘classy’ is for my mom. She loves no-fuss cuts and

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understated elegance. When I was Navya’s age, I was sent to Abu-Sandeep’s workshop where I was given sketches to colour, learn pattern cutting and so on. I observed how delicately and superbly they finished their embroideries. Their factory was fashion school for me,” recalls Shweta. Talking about her famous sister-in-law and her tiny niece Aaradhya, Shweta admits that Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is a “marvellous mother and a fabulous wife” who is patient, understanding and totally devoted to the family. “Aaradhya is the apple of everyone’s eyes, Ash is very committed to being around her daughter and capturing all the milestones – making certain that her family remains her priority. Ash is so organised and like my father she manages to juggle her personal and professional life to perfection,” she adds. Growing up with “very loving and involved parents”

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is what made Shweta the confident person she is today. And she admits that she talks to her mom frequently and keeps in touch with her dad despite his “harrowing schedule”. “We are very close as a family – Abhishek and I developed a very close bond as children even though I went away to boarding school and then got married in my early 20s. My father has taught me everything there is to know about life consequently, our fatherdaughter understanding has always been great. There is so much to learn from my father –his discipline, honesty and dedication to work,” she says. The only Bachchan who never dabbled in films, Shweta admits that she likes being away from the limelight. “It’s enough that four people in one family are already the most photographed!” she laughingly concludes.

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To Dad, With Love “My dad always wanted me to be heard in India,” says Grammy winner Norah Jones as she talks about her ﬁrst Indian tour Notch Correspondent

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or Grammy-winning singer/ songwriter Norah Jones, a trip to India means more than just doing a few shows. Gearing up to perform across three cities – Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore – this month as part of her Little Broken Hearts tour, the daughter of the late sitar maestro Pandit Ravi Shankar opens up about what this trip really means to her.

A homecoming of sorts I’m thrilled about coming to India, but it’s also a little sad because my Dad just passed away. I’ve never performed in the country before – it’s just been a matter of logistics. My dad always wanted me to be heard in India, so this time around I planned it in advance. Dad was so insistent that I figured it would be nice for the two of us. He’s gone now, but I know he was ecstatic about my performances in India – so that’s the silver lining. Silver-screen sensations Acting in Wong Kar Wai’s My Blueberry Nights was an immensely rewarding experience. It was certainly one of the most exciting things I’ve ever had to do. I would love to work in more films if something really cool came along. Playing to the crowd I like performing a lot of my old numbers and a lot of new songs too. Every now and then we throw in a cover track or two. I’d say my shows are really fun to be at. Since my debut, I’ve sung different kinds of songs. I ��

think that makes for great variety in a show. They all fit together in an organic way. Right now, I have a wonderful new band and I’ll be playing the piano and guitar. It’s going to be a blast!

Partners in crime I’m so buzzed that (M Ward) Matthew Stephen Ward is joining me on this tour. We haven’t played together in several years – although we love the same kind of music. We go well together as a double act. He’s such a brilliant guitarist. He sings like an old crooner, but there’s something very new about his music as well. I am just a big fan and he’s a good friend. ��

Ride into the ‘Danger’ zone It took about two months and was a true collaboration. I definitely put myself out in Danger Mouse’s world in LA and his studio. I was really excited to work with him and we became very good friends. It was nice to work with someone who could bring me out of anything I was used to but in a very comfortable, natural, friendly and collaborative way. Next up After the tour in India, I’m going to take some time off. I’m not sure what I’m going to do but I’m excited that I have no plans for a while. 15

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Photographer- AJ Raina Assistant Photographer- Irina Usova Styled by: Mohit Rai and Aastha Sharma Styling assistant: Chandani Mehta Hair & Make up- Mehak

I, ME, MYSELF CHITRANGDA SINGH’S SEARCH FOR HER IDENTITY Tushar A Amin

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Dress- Falguni & Shane Peacock Haathphool- Outhouse by Kaabia & Sasha Grewal Shoes- Christian Louboutin

Sing your own song, Dance your own dance, Dream your own dream, Stake your own chance - Evette Carter

TAP FOR MAKING OF COVER

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Dress- Rohit Gandhi & Rahul Khanna Earrings- Outhouse by Kaabia & Sasha Grewal Shoes- Christian Louboutin

here are certain unwritten rules that anyone wishing to succeed in Hindi films has to follow. You cannot be married, especially if you are an actress. You cannot just disappear for years after delivering a successful film. You cannot be a mother and a star at the same time. You cannot just come back from a self-imposed sabbatical and expect to get work. Not if you are Chitrangda Singh, though. Everything about this dusky dazzler flies in the face of Bollywood clichés. She has broken every rule in the book and yet managed to succeed on her terms. Beyond her drop-dead gorgeous looks and her scintillating performances, little is known about Chitrangda’s life. The mystery just adds to her enigmatic aura, makes her all the more alluring. And Chitrangda is wise enough not to break it. Her journey from Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi where we first fell under her spell to her recent release Inkaar has not been an easy one. Partly, it seems, because Chitrangda herself was not expecting stardom to be conferred upon her as soon as it did. Coming from a defence background, she was dabbling in modelling – a pretty Delhi girl’s conventional pastime – when Sudhir Mishra spotted her in an assignment. What happened next is, as they say, history. Her prodigious portrayal of the London-returned girl caught in a romantic triangle with an idealistic Naxalite and a pragmatic political fixer in Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi made the entire nation crave for more from her. ��

Gown: Gauri and Nainika Bodysuit- Falguni & Shane Peacock Collar- Outhouse by Kaabia & Sasha Grewal

The success seemed to have come as a surprise even to Chitrangda herself. The wife of one of India’s leading golfers, Jyoti Singh Randhawa, and the daughter of a military officer, acting was not something she had considered as a serious career option. Even as the world was waiting for another powerful ��

performance from her, she decided to do the unthinkable. Chitrangda actually abandoned limelight in favour of her personal life. Over the next three years speculations over why she decided to quit films flew thick and fast – husband’s disapproval, family pressure – all sorts of rumours

gained ground. But Chitrangda chose not to dignify the insinuations and continued to live an anonymous life, going to the extent of changing her telephone numbers to keep the gossip mongering media at bay. She could deny the limelight but she could not resist the empowerment that acting offered her.

ON ACTING “I am not willing to sacriﬁce my personal life for cinema neither my acting for my personal life.” During the four year sabbatical, she travelled with Jyoti on his international golfing tours but she started missing the excitement and the sense of accomplishment that comes from creating something with a team. The sense of identity that acting offered her – beyond being someone’s wife, daughter or sister – forced her to ��

reconsider her options. But it was after she delivered her baby boy that she finally decided to return to the world of films. “I was convinced that I did not want to let motherhood come in the way of exploring another dimension of my life,” she said in an interview. Stepping back into the limelight meant she would

have to juggle multiple responsibilities – that of a wife, a mother and an actress. And this was not only her decision to make. Jyoti and Chitrangda have been together for nearly half their life and so when Chitrangda decided to pursue her heart, she found a ready supported in her life partner.

ON MARRIAGE “We are against the usual stereotypes. People are not able to peg us and that is the reason all these talks come up.”

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Bustier and pants- Annaika by Kanika Saluja Hairband- Valliyan by Nitya Arora Gown- Roberto Cavalli

“Jyoti understands that I have a right to do what I want in life. His life too is dedicated to his passion – golf. He understands what it means to follow a dream. He understands passion. And just the way he works hard at his sport, he understands I have to dedicate myself to my passion,” she explains. However, juggling the three demanding roles does leave her stretched a bit thin. But she has ensured that her son gets her undivided attention whenever they are together and is ��

particular about spending time with him. He is also insulated from the film world, under the care of her mother. Coming from a defence family, she knows how to deal with one parent not being around and the couple makes sure that one of them is there for their son. “We are against the usual stereotypes. People are not able to peg us and that is the reason all these talks come up,” refusing to bite the usual bait. In a recent interview she said,

“All relationships need to be worked on. I am not willing to sacrifice my personal life for cinema neither my acting for my personal life. It may put pressure on me, but I want it all. Just like any working woman, life is demanding for me too, but I am willing to take the efforts.” Her efforts are definitely showing results as Chitrangda is now straddling different worlds in films as well. On the one hand, she is appearing in meaty roles in her trademark mature films like

Inkaar and on the other, she is dazzling us with her moves and sensuality in mainstream films like Desi Boyz and Joker. Chitrangda has often been compared to Smita Patil. And with every new role, she is proving herself up for the task of filling those big shoes. Speaking on the film industry today, she says, “There are so many exciting films being made. And with films like Kahaani and The Dirty Picture, women are no longer being treated as pretty props. Even behind the camera, filmmakers like Zoya Akhtar and Reema Kagti are breaking new grounds. There are so many women technicians, be it cinematographers, editors or music directors. This is the best time to be in films and I feel blessed to be a part of this evolving industry”

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ON MOTHERHOOD “I was convinced that I did not want to let motherhood come in the way of exploring another dimension of my life.”

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J A T- SE TTI NG

COWB OY

Today Randeep Hooda has learnt to enjoy life. Gone are the extreme highs and rock bottom lows — battling bankruptcy, a lost love and no work! Asmita Aggarwal

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’d love to date but no skinny or drunken girls for me!’’ exclaims actor Randeep Hooda in a rather mischievous aside. “I’m lucky in love but I’m not a very politically correct actor,” he adds. Whether his famous affair with older woman Sushmita Sen resulted in a sort of commitment phobia towards his current love interest Neetu Chandra is hard to say, but Randeep is relaxed post the release of Murder 3.

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“I had no work for twoand-a-half years. I spent all my savings and didn’t know whether I’d made the right decision to act in ﬁlms.”

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Randeep, the boy from Rohtak is candid enough to admit that he has bounced back despite bouts of depression. “I had no work for two-and-a-half years. I spent all my savings and didn’t know whether I’d made the right decision to act in films. But then I put my ego aside and took up small roles in `big’ films and today I have done around 10 films in two years,” he smiles. Being a non-conformist, Randeep realised that the survival of an artiste depends on the work he procures. “I told myself that I was not going to

label work good or bad, that’s why you saw me in Sahib, Biwi Aur Gangster, Cocktail and Heroine. I never felt threatened by two big heroes in Once Upon a Time, as I had become more accepting,” he admits. Randeep’s unpredictability, impulsiveness and restlessness on-screen became an advantage for filmmakers, even though privately the actor battled for stability. “Deep down I felt I had entered the wrong profession, my dad is a doctor he always wanted me to study medicine. But I couldn’t

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make ends meet. Then, when everything failed, I took my horses and travelled all over India competing in various tournaments. Animals are the best de-stressors — I learnt how to be carefree from watching them closely,” he confesses. Randeep is an excellent dressage and show jumper and has won an impressive list of medals. But he does do those 100 push ups, to keep that wonderful body in shape! “I own five horses and they race at the Mahalaxmi racecourse in Mumbai. I was always interested in equestrian

sports. So I started riding when I was quite young and the passion never faded away. It’s also thanks to all the Clint Eastwood films I watched, old Westerns that influenced my psyche as a kid,” he adds. Today Randeep’s time has come — he is juggling the shooting for two films. And he has no time to sit and think. With Imitiaz Ali’s Highway, Unglee with Karan Johar and Kick with Sajid Nadiadwala, Randeep has his hands full. “I never thought my life would be on a roll,” he grins as he signs off.

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r o f a g o y -

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areena plays a very different kind of number game - one that takes her from size zero to size 4 and most recently, a very substantial size 8! Her item song Fevicol Se in Dabangg 2 showed a rather bouncy Bebo jiggling for the masses. But now the actress is toning down - literally. For director Punit’s next film, Kareena says she’s been told to get into shape. “It’s not like I am doing anything extreme. I will still be voluptuous, but the difference will be that my appearance will be more toned and fitter because I need to acquire such a look for my dance numbers,” she says.

t h g i e w r e h d i a o t And r e h d e h c t i d s ’ a n e e a loss, Kar r o f n a i c i t e i d e t i r favou . e r u c d e t s e t d n a d f o more trie t o l a o d o t d e s “I u e v a h I w o n t u b a g , a g power yo o y r a g n e y I d e t star e v ’ I . t l u c i f f i d e r o m w which is e f a e n o already d g n i l e e f m a I d n a s session e h s ” , g n i z a m a y l absolute d e z i l a e r s ’ o b e B s s e t i says. Gu n e h w s s e l s i e r that mo ! n e e r c s g i b e h t o t comes ��

Kareena in Fevicol Se

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50 SHADE S OF DEEPIKA “Awards will come my way when they have to,” says Deepika Padukone as she talks about losing out to Vidya Balan and why she chooses to do negative roles Lipika Varma

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eepika Padukone credits Shah Rukh Khan and Farah Khan with giving her a break in Bollywood. “I was lucky to have debuted opposite Shah Rukh Khan and privileged to be directed by Farah in my very first film,” says the star who admits that she didn’t have any backing in Bollywood but was encouraged to pursue her dreams by her parents. Talking about the varied roles she’s played Bollywood’s glam girl explains, “There was a time when people thought a person portraying a negative character was negative in real life. However, we are actors — audiences should be

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mature enough not to compare us with our reel characters.” “In Race 2 I played a seductress where I used my beauty and intelligence to achieve my aim. All the characters in the film had a hidden agenda and were ready to betray one another. In real life I do not identify with this character because I never charm people with a motive in mind,” she smiles. Explaining why she’s acted in films with negative shades like Love Aaj Kal, Cocktail and Race 2 Deepika says, “These are challenging personas to play and I’ve always been attracted to challenging roles!” As to the range of characters she’s portrayed, the actor elucidates that her role in Cocktail was an authorbacked one whereas her character in Chennai Express, a rom-com, was very different to her role of Veronica in Cocktail. “In Yeh Jawani Hai Diwani I play a relatively easy part — that of a school girl. In Ram Leela — a benchmark film by director Sanjay Leela Bhansali — I am a Gujarati girl. I speak Gujarati in this film while for Chennai

Express I had to learn Tamil. So, as you can see, all my characters are completely different to what I am in real life.”

watched the movie while he was in Delhi and this time he cried! The fact that my portrayal touched him so much was my biggest award.”

The role, according to Deepika “literally fell into my lap. It was like a dream come true. Sanjay Bhansali says that films and his mother are his life. I have the same name as his mom in Ram Leela, which is why he loves the character so much!”

Bollywood’s glam girl says that she’s worked very hard to come this far, “I’ve chosen this profession and I am just doing my job to the best of my ability. I’ve worked very hard — it was not easy to adapt to a totally different Contrary to the rumours, Deepika denies any animosity environment and meeting different with Kareena Kapoor, “We challenges has meet occasionally and are been a learning very cordial.” But, she’s in awe of Rajinikanth. “Working experience. ” So, what about the with him was a great challenge of experience. Despite all the accolades he’s received for his working with work, he’s a simple man with ex-boyfriend no airs and graces,” she says. Ranbir Kapoor? “Working with him again is like Deepika may have lost the Filmfare award to Vidya Balan working with any other star. but she feels that she was Ranbir and I privileged to be nominated share no alongside Sridevi and Vidya. awkwardness. “Awards will come my way when they have to,” she says One needs to move on and explaining that she watched Cocktail with her mother and be able to live with the father in Bangalore and they got very emotional. “My mom changes that occur in one’s always delivers her opinion life,” concludes very bluntly, but my dad is Deepika firmly. very emotional. He re��

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obbie Williams needs no introduction. First finding success in the mid-1990’s as part of the British pop group Take That, the singer launched his solo career, becoming an icon of British pop culture with some massively popular hit singles including Millennium, Radio, Rock DJ, and Feel. Now, almost three years since the release of his last solo album and a reunion with Take That, which resulted in Progress, the biggestselling album of the century, the 38-year-old singersongwriter has released a solo offering titled Take The Crown. In a candid chat he opens up about working on the album and his new single Candy (which he co-wrote with his Take That bandmate Gary Barlow), on battling personal demons and just sounding happier.

and meet all my fans. What has the move back to Take That been like? My return to Take That was great. I loved being with the group and performing with them again. I really wanted to get my life back on track though. I feel like this album has been instrumental in helping me take stock of my life and prove to myself and anyone else that I can still do this. Take That has been and will always be a very important part of my life. Right now, I’m doing my own thing and flying solo but I will always be there for the band.

exactly what my life has been at that particular time. I didn’t realise how different this album sounded until Gary pointed it out. He noticed that my sound had got a lot happier and lighter and that’s the first time I realised it as well. Did it have to match the success of your last release, Reality Killed The Video Star? The thing is that this project wasn’t so much of a strategic move. It just kind of happened. I was really focused while creating it but there was a personal motivation behind it. And I believe that if you really put that much hard work into something it’s got to do well.

Your latest album has the typical Robbie Williams spirit — brash, fun and lively — but an Are you aware of the fan atypically Robbie Williams sound. Conscious move? base you have in India? No. I’ve realised that all I haven’t actually been to my songs are a India, but I do know that a sort of musical lot of people in the country documentary enjoy my music. Touring or performing in India is not on of my life. the agenda right now — but All the yes, if it is the right move for songs me I’d love to come to India reflect ��

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Jackie Reloaded As she basks in the success of Race 2, Jacqueline Fernandez talks about why she loves doing sequels Tushar A. Amin

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t’s easy to forget that the owner of the ‘Best Legs in Bollywood’, is as intelligent as she is beautiful. From being the host of a television news show and winning a global beauty pageant to studying international relations and carving a niche for herself in Bollywood — Jacqueline Fernandez has always been an over-achiever.

Murder 2, Housefull 2 and now Race 2. You’ve practically become the Queen of Sequels! Was this a deliberate choice? A successful Queen of Sequels! It’s been the season for sequels in Bollywood. Sequels have always had an audience because of their successful first parts. Coincidentally,

It’s part of my decision to do good work and be associated with meaningful ﬁlms. Even if those opportunities don’t come along often, I’d rather wait for them. around the time when I was launched, I was getting sequel offers left, right and centre. But these three were the ones that I consciously chose. I enjoyed their first instalments and they had good directors, good production houses backing them and of course great co-actors! What about the experience of working with so many stars in Race 2? Be it Saif, Deepika, or Anil Kapoor — there was so much to learn and share. It was a very beneficial environment for me.

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After five films, do you finally feel you belong here? There wasn’t a time that I felt I was not part of the industry. Then why are we seeing so little of you in films? It’s part of my decision to do good work and be associated with meaningful films. Even if those opportunities don’t come along often, I’d rather wait for them. It’s really only because I want to be part of work that I can look back on and be happy with. So, that’s the kind of risk I am willing to take. What is the one role you would jump at if it were offered to you now? I would like to do a romantic film. It’s something I haven’t done. I also like comedies — comedy comes quite naturally to me. So, I would have to say a romantic comedy. Maybe with Ranbir... (laughs). Are you happy in the space you’re in right now? I am! I think I’ve come into the industry at a time when there’s amazing work happening for everyone — across genres, genders, ages and ethnicities!

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For the couple of weeks after Gauri joined SRK in Mumbai, they lived in one of the two bedrooms in Aziz Mirza’s house. Soon they moved out and rented a one-bedroom apartment at Mount Mary – very, very close to where I live. Gauri would do all the housework because she hated the idea of having a maid hovering around in such a small space with them. Those days, my Playmate Club gang would hang out at Salman’s (Khan) house, and ��

soon SRK and Gauri too started dropping by in the evening. We would all either have dinner or play Pictionary. Yes, those were the good old days of friendship and love. Shah Rukh had brought his Maruti 800 from Delhi to Mumbai, and Gauri would drive around in that. It used to be a nightmare trying to get the car out of his building because of the steep incline. I remember how Gauri used to struggle with the car. I would drive

her car out of the building so she could get around peacefully. We share innumerable tiny little memories of happy, carefree times like that between us. One such night a really funny incident occurred. We were going to Rock Around the Clock, a nightclub frequented by filmy folk. While driving there, Salman kept addressing someone as ‘Gayatri’. We all wondered who Gayatri was, and when we asked Salman, he instantly pointed to Gauri saying, “Isn’t she Gayatri?” It was hysterical, especially because we had hung out for a year and the whole

the previous day. Though he refused the film, he strongly felt that Shah Rukh was perfect for the role and urged him to call up Yash Chopra for the same.

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time Salman thought Gauri was ‘Gayatri’! Around that time SRK was launched by Raj Kanwar in a film called Deewana opposite Divya Bharti. The film became a hit and he went on to win awards for Best Debut Actor. But tragedy struck when Divya Bharti fell to her death from the parapet of her building. It was a tragic loss for the industry. SRK was so affected by the incident that one night he took us for a drive to Versova, to the building she fell from. However, that aside, success came to him in ��

abundance - someone up there was definitely looking out for him. At this point, I’d like to share a strange, career-defining incident that took place. This happened at Salman’s annual Eid party, and everyone was in attendance - from Aamir to Shah Rukh to the top heroines of the 90s. The party was winding up and I was among the last to leave. It was around 4:30 am and I still remember that (ironically!) Aamir Khan, SRK, Gauri and I were standing in Salman’s compound when Aamir told Shah Rukh about a narration he heard

The film was Darr, and in that one casual conversation Aamir literally handed over Yash Chopra and Yash Raj banners to Shah Rukh. Darr made a hero out of the villain, history was written for Shah Rukh Khan, as he became Yash Raj’s favourite actor and Yash uncle’s eternal ‘Rahul’. Shah Rukh graduated from driving a Maruti 800 to a swanky red Pajero with the number plate 786. Incidentally, he was instrumental in making Pajeros stylish. We took innumerable rides in his car and soon he and Gauri shifted into a terrace flat in a small but cute building called called Amrit. Gadgets were a passion with SRK and his new pad became a hangout for all of us. We spent many evenings checking out his

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new acquisitions or watching movies on the laser disc player. During this phase, he began shooting for Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge, directed by Aditya Chopra, who was being launched by his father Yash Chopra. It was during the making of this film that we all became friends. I had started designing for Shah Rukh. Karan Johar, who was Adi’s assistant director and had a bit part in the film joined the group, and even Adi, the perpetual grouch, was comfortable only with this bunch. Shah Rukh got his dream bungalow Mannat during ��

the making of Dilwale… It was on the October 8 – Gauri’s birthday – and Adi decided to show the first copy of his film. That was the day Shah Rukh hosted all of us on the dilapidated terrace of the house with no lights, just one bulb, biryani served on thermocol plates and disposable glasses. He was just too excited to show us his latest acquisition. Just before they renovated their bungalow, Ekta Kapoor and SRK threw a joint Holi party in that sprawling space. I still remember that it was one of the biggest and most memorable Holi parties ever! Maheep Kapoor, Bhavna Pandey, Kajal Anand, Seema Khan and I have

been close friends with SRK and Gauri for a long, long time and we are more like family. SRK’s friends were mostly from Delhi, so he used to love hanging out with us. He liked to think we kept him abreast with what was going on in the industry - making us sound like gossip queens! I wonder what makes this man the darling of millions? The answer is his charisma. It’s unbeatable! Shah Rukh may not know anything about you, but he listens intently, and can decode you in minutes after which he will turn around and give you the finest advice. By the end of it, you can’t help, but be awed by his charm and incredible intelligence. Those days we used to call SRK ‘chewing gum’

aa n i b ha arty S d n p a d i K E SR at an

because once he starts talking, he can’t stop! Shah Rukh’s unmatched success is coupled with the fact that he has incredible foresight and great business acumen. He lives life king-size, and has houses all over the world today. I’m lucky because I can stay in each one of them whenever I want! He recently built a huge theatre in Mannat, and now our lives are so much easier as far as watching movies is concerned. Sometimes I watch movies all alone in that theatre at whatever time I want. Such luxury can only be experienced because of Shah Rukh and Gauri’s large-heartedness. ��

One of the finest pieces of advice that I have ever received is from him, “Always try to buy property you can’t afford because a) you will never ever have enough money for it; and b) when you buy something you can’t afford, you will work five times harder to pay it back.” He laughed and told me that he had just Rs 2 crore in savings when bought Mannat, which was worth Rs 30 crore. Through sheer grit, determination and hard work, he paid off the entire loan in just four years. His advice is something I follow very keenly till date. But despite all the success, Shah Rukh is one of the most humble and down-to-

earth people you would ever meet. His wit is unmatched, and he is a perfect gentleman. At every party in his house, Shah Rukh Khan will drop each and every guest to their cars. As a result, he spends more time outside his party then inside. I was there when both his children were born, and though it seems like yesterday. I have known Shah Rukh and Gauri for 23 years now and Mannat is like home away from home for me. A quintessential lover on screen, an active philanthropist, a successful businessman, darling of millions of fans, a rocksolid friend and a complete family man – all these qualities define Shah Rukh Khan. It’s been an incredible journey for me to learn life’s lessons from him. I wish him many more years of success and good health in all that he does, and I always pray that God gives him and Gauri ten times more than what they have today. There’s no one quite like you SRK. You are truly ‘King Khan’!

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salaam

mira! Mira Nair’s first film Salaam Bombay is being re-released after 25 years. Mira talks about her excitement, her influences, her stage version of Monsoon Wedding and her latest film, The Reluctant Fundamentalist

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ira Nair calls herself “an Indian filmmaker at home in the world,” which no doubt she is. She has directed a film on street kids in India, an adaptation of William Makepeace Thackeray’s book Vanity Fair and most recently a film based on a novel by Pakistani writer Mohsin Hamid. The next couple of months are special for her for two reasons: first her film The Reluctant Fundamentalist is releasing in India in April and second

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because her first film Salaam Bombay completes 25 years (1988-2013) and will be re-released in India on March 22. “Salaam Bombay was the second Indian film to be nominated to the Oscars in 1989. It won 25 awards at various festivals across the world. Another thing that happened simultaneously was that the Salaam Baalak Trust was set up through which we rehabilitated 5,000 street kids,” she says.

Sensitive subject Mira Nair’s father was from Pakistan, but she was born and raised in India. So The Reluctant Fundamentalist was a very personal journey for her as well. She says, “I’ve tried to make a story that says what a lot of people think. The film is about finding your own voice. And I am glad that it has not been seen as a controversial film just because the protagonist is a Pakistani boy. In fact the censor board in India was respectful of my effort in trying to make a film that deals with the subject of terrorism.”

Song ‘n’ Dance Mira’s film Monsoon Wedding that grabbed the attention of the audience as well as critics with its unique rendition of the great Indian wedding is now going to be a stage musical. When asked why Mira says, “I wanted to revisit my past relationship with the stage. A stage musical is a very different format from a film. It is more of an extravaganza. The

musical will first be staged in New York and then come to India.” What’s next? Mira is very inspired by children, but she’s never made a film for them as yet. “That’s what I’m doing next. It will be a film based in India and all the work will also be done here. I am going to use Indian technicians to make it.” Mira’s inspiration All Mira’s films in a way delve into the human spirit and have a thematic reference to a minority. “Growing up in a small town in India amid radical inequality made me notice people. The human struggle inspires me. The margins excite me and drive me to tell their story. I want to evoke some emotion in people when they watch my films.” She also adds, “India has so much diversity but still has a spirit of unity. It is secularism that finally prevails. People have always lived here together in harmony and I believe they always will.”

Mira Nair directs Shabana Azmi in The Reluctant Fundamentalist

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The

MADHURI CONNECT An iPad app to connect with her fans marks Madhuri Dixit’s return to the industry as an actor with a truly global appeal Lipika Varma

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adhuri Dixit’s million dollar smile is legendary but if she were to choose a smile that tugs at her heartstrings it would have to be a toss up between Hrithik Roshan’s, Ranbir Kapoor’s and Shashi Kapoor’s. However, she still remembers how a fan – who came up to her and complimented her on her smile had her name shaved onto his head! And as for her family? Well, they loved seeing her smile. “My mom and the rest of my relatives used to say, Porgi chi hasi chaan aahey (the girl has a nice smile).”

“The app is a small contribution from my side to acknowledge the love and adulation I receive from my fans” So when this lady with a beautiful smile decided to return to Mumbai, it came as no surprise to anyone that she was inundated with offers. However, as she admits, “At that point in time bringing up my babies was more exciting than doing a movie. I am open to all kinds of film offers now as long as I am not asked to do anything boring. It has to be a project which is convenient to both the producer and me, in terms of location, etc. I can now take the time to do a movie and still look after my home and kids.” While she might have stayed away from the glare of the limelight for a while, the actress was never really out of touch with ��

Bollywood or her admirers. She recently launched her own iPad application, Madhuri Dixit HD, to connect with her fans. “It is hard staying in touch with all the fans today. It’s a very small contribution from my side to acknowledge the love and adulation I receive from my fans and I can’t thank them enough,” she said in a statement. Getting set to strike a balance between work and home, Madhuri feels that one’s priorities change when one has kids. “You realise the importance of love and sharing. Once I was the centre of my kids’ universe now they are at the centre of mine!” she laughs. “I’ll probably do one film a year – Dedh Ishqiya and Gulabi Gang are what I’m doing for now,” says Madhuri who explains that handling two `production’ houses – professional and personal – will require her to be adept at multi-tasking and time management. But despite the discipline involved in maintaining a healthy workhome balance Madhuri says that she enjoys what she’s doing. “Both the films (I am doing right now) have good, strong roles. I work hard at what I’m doing,” she says.’ Despite her love for dance, coming back to centre stage after a long hiatus did make her a bit apprehensive about performing in public. “I hadn’t done it for four years. But, to my surprise it wasn’t difficult. Acting and dancing are hard to forget.” The actor says that her parents always encouraged her as far as dance was concerned. “In fact my husband also loves music and dance,” she declares.

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o s l A r o ’ n ‘Ra l a e r the ? ? g n i th

uch speculation has been going on about the Ranveer-Deepika romance. And after evidence of Ranveer’s impulsive trip to Dubai to party with his special lady went viral, the two have been lying low. What everyone saw was the picture that showed Ranveer Singh holding Dips in a full body embrace, but NOTCH Insider brings to you some more pics in the series and you tell us if the couple looks like they are just a teenyweeny bit in love. Before grabbing her, eye-witnesses at the club claim that Ranveer planted a huge smacker on his ‘friend’s’ cheek and then went on to wildly declare that she was the most gorgeous woman on the planet.

d h n t i a w h g e in kon S r u e d e a v i P a n a b a R k u i D p e n De ds i n e i fr ��

After that, he continued to dance with the actress, making the most of his one night in Dubai. After all, Ranveer did fly all the way to Dubai for just one evening, took Deepika shopping and then partied with her after that. When asked about being ‘deeply Dippy’, Ranveer said he was open to a more permanent relationship, but Deepika has maintained stoic silence. Wonder if she’s come clean about the newest ‘R’ factor in her life.

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Vijay Singh Ajairajpura handcrafts and designs one-of-akind motorcycles to match the owner’s personality Rohit Panikker

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magine an endless stretch of road that promises you unrestricted freedom and nothing but the steady growl of your motorcycle as you ride into the sunset – the perfect postmodern getaway dream and the oft-discussed relationship between man and machine. And no one knows that relationship better than 26-year-old Vijay Singh Ajairajpura – passionate biker, machinist and the founder of Rajputana Custom Motorcycles (RCM), a motorcycle design and

building outfit based out of Jaipur, Rajasthan. Vijay’s love story with bikes began at the age of seven when his father built him a 50cc BSA Falcon. Thereafter he built his first bike, Original Gangster, after his undergraduation in mass communication from Carleton University, Canada. “After Original Gangster was built, my cousin told me we had to showcase it at the New Delhi Auto Expo. That’s where it all began,” he explains.

Things really took off when actor John Abraham commissioned RCM to build him a custom model, which was christened ‘Lightfoot’. “After Original Gangster was put together, a friend (Vivek Oberoi’s manager) told me I should probably show my designs to John. So, I got in touch with him, sent him a few pictures and eventually heard his ideas about the kind of bike he wanted. That’s how Lightfoot was born.” Today, three years later, Vijay has set up a modest garage in his basement, with a team of about 8-10 fellow bike enthusiasts and skilled machinists. “We build our bikes on absolute spontaneity. We don’t show our clients elaborate sketches. I can’t sketch at all! It’s often unplanned and the bikes take shape gradually and organically; we innovate on the designs as we go along,” says Vijay. ��

One of the most unique features in a Rajputana custom model is its sheer ‘back to basics’ look and distinct Indian identity. This can be seen in the intricate engravings on the clutch and front brake lever, oil tank, oil tank flap, the badges as well as the handmade leather work – as on the ‘Rajmata’, his reworked version of a 1200 Harley Davidson. “The name Rajputana is representative of us and where we’re from. We see how our local craftsmen can help us by incorporating their talent onto our bikes,” explains Vijay adding, “The work done on the brake lever and the oil tank flap is called koftgari, a traditional Rajasthani damascening art.”

So, how long does one have to wait before one becomes the proud owner of a Rajputana Custom Motorcycle? “It takes about two-and-a-half months to build a bike up from scratch. Costs could range between Rs. 80,000 and Rs. 8 lakhs depending on the complexity of the work,” explains Vijay. “Rajputana Custom Motorcycles is not a profit-making venture for us, and we’re happy this way,’’ says Vijay. “We have no plans to expand into a major business soon. We have no business plan either, in fact. We’d rather have only 12 bikes out every year that we’re proud of than 60 average bikes. The entire team is aged 26 or below. So, I have my entire life ahead to make plans. For now our only intention is to have fun!” ��

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SUBJECTIVE REALITY “I prefer being the voyeur to the exhibitionist,” says supermodel Sheetal Mallar who quit glamour to pursue a serious career in photography

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rom working with some of the world’s biggest fashion houses including Armani and Fendi, to trudging through Mumbai slums, following her heart has not been easy. But the gorgeous Sheetal Mallar is not complaining. The decision to step behind the lens and express her creativity came at a price. But she says photography is her true calling. “Having been around photographers all my career, I was fascinated by it. So when I quit modeling, it was what I was drawn to,” she explains. “Photography in a way has helped me reconnect with my city, my people and myself. I love shooting people. In fact my journey as a photographer started with taking pictures of my grandmother. I would go over every day and shoot pictures of her going about her routine. Then I would go to my friend’s houses and shoot them. They all loved the pictures as they could identify with the mood. They could see that if I was close to the subject, the photos would carry an emotional quality, so I knew I had to give photography a shot,” she adds. ��

Does she miss being in front of the camera? “Not at all! Even when I was in the thick of things I maintained an emotional distance from the attention. But what I do miss is the free travel and going to exciting destinations. I also miss being paid to basically have a good time because once the shoot is over you just end up enjoying the place. Earlier people would run after me all the time, now I have to run after them,” she laughs. But quitting wasn’t hard, says Sheetal. “When I started modeling, all my peers were much older than me. I had seen their crises and learnt a lot very early. It was not a sudden decision at all. I had planned to quit

for almost four years. My journey in the fashion world was over. And I was happy to leave when I did. I don’t dress up in my personal life and have no designer shoes or clothes. I have always preferred being the voyeur rather than the exhibitionist.” Her most exciting projects include a project for Motherland magazine on the Dharavi slums - “That was an amazing experience. We explored the micro

economies that exist within settlements like Dharavi” – and the Chimbai fishing village. “I stumbled upon the area when I went to my waxing lady’s house. As soon as I saw the place I knew I would shoot it.” “These are my slog years,” admits the former model. “I never had to really struggle earlier and now I’m having to do that. In my head I had romanticized being a photographer and I realize it’s not going to be easy to make it. I am not making as much money as I used to, but it doesn’t matter. I just want to be able to sustain myself as a photographer. I just want to tell as many stories as I can and produce a body of meaningful work.”

Images from Sheetal’s Chimbai fishing village series

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Images: Harald Haugan

TRAINSPOTTING

British journalist and the author of Around India in 80 Trains, Monisha Rajesh shares vignettes from her fascinating journey Bijoy Bharathan

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As the aisles teeming with bookworms brought back memories of that unforgettable trip, a smile crept up on Monisha’s lips. It was time to detrain.

Moves like Jules Around the World in 80 Days by Jules Verne was my inspiration. I knew I had about four months of free time so I worked out that I could manage 80 trains. The pressure to complete it made the journey all the more fun. The trip took exactly four months, from January 14 to May 14, 2010.

Tales of Mr Man Friday

n a chilly wintry evening, at a bookshop erected at the Diggi Palace, which hosted the Jaipur Literature Festival 2013, Monisha Rajesh stood by a shelf glancing at the sea of titles on display. The young British journalist and the author of Around India in 80 Trains, was in an upbeat mood as a gang of giggling schoolgirls jostled past her. About three years ago, the Londoner had packed her bags for India to undertake a journey across the country, on board the Indian Railways.

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My partner on the journey was a Norwegian friend, Harald Haugan (nicknamed Passepartout) who just happened to be free at the same time. Passepartout brought a new angle to the book. He was a ‘devout’ atheist and I found it fascinating that he could be in one of the few countries with all of the world’s religions functioning in relative harmony, and still learn so little from the cultures of each. His views also made me reconsider my own feelings about religion.

Tripping on India People were so kind to me and families often made it a point to give me their numbers and invite me into their compartments to make sure I was safe at

night. Once we were double-booked into one berth, so Passepartout struck a deal with the bed-roll attendant and paid him `500 to use his cupboard as a makeshift bed. The kids in the next carriage came tearing through to catch a glimpse of the crazy white man in the cupboard.

Knick knack hunter I picked up a host of souvenirs along the way: a beautiful bronze Buddha from Gangtok, candle holders from Madurai, a Nataraja statue from Tanjore, Pashminas (a

type of woollen shawl) from Dilli Haat, hand carved coasters from Shimla.

Scribes on the road I saw Michael Palin’s own version of Around the World in 80 Days on TV when I was about eight. I was fascinated then and a little bit of that probably stuck with me. I love Eric Newby’s A Short Walk in the Hindu Kush. I admire William Dalrymple and the wonderful ways in which he recreates old journeys and has kept travel writing as exciting as the first time he journeyed to write In Xanadu.

Experience talks Monisha’s readyreckoner on how to chug along in the subcontinent with ease: �� toilet roll, hand gel and a good paperback. �� and hippy trousers along the route and throw them away as and when you need to, rather than lug heavy loads around. ��

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around by rail get to know some of the train types beforehand. It makes it easier to choose the ones that’ll suit your journey better. �� cheaper than Rajdhanis and cleaner, with more space and better food. Some routes should be done by a mail or an express train. They are slower but are open and you can take in the views better.

�� runs from Goa to Mumbai, but the Mandovi Express is much better as you can experience the waterfalls, lakes, mango groves and palm trees from the doorway rather than from behind tinted windows.

NOTCH ��

NO MONKEY

BUSINESS Chef Manu Chandra, a partner in the hugely successful chain of Olive restaurants, shares three deliciously simple recipes from his kitchen Arpita Chatterjee ��

anu Chandra is a partner in the critically acclaimed Olive that opened up in Bangalore and New Delhi, after the flagship in Mumbai became a hotspot for lovers of quality food. Manu spends his time jet setting across these three cities overseeing the cuisine at the Olive restaurants. Manu started in the Olive kitchens in 2004 and through a hugely successful gastronomic journey reached the position of Head Chef in a year. He became a partner shortly thereafter. Manu has also just set up the Monkey Bar in Bangalore, which he proudly declares has the best burgers in the country. As a chef Manu has a simple mantra. He believes in “extracting the flavours of the ingredients” he is using. He believes that quality food is all about the quality of what goes into it and not the complexity of the technique used in its creation. The good news for food lovers in Mumbai is that Manu is planning to open a Monkey Bar there soon. And he has promised to match the burgers he makes in Bangalore in every Monkey Bar he opens. “The secret of a good burger is the meat. And I plan to get the meat for all my restaurants from Bangalore,” he adds. The recipes he’s shared with us blend flavours and textures just like a restaurant would do, with one difference – the dishes are easy to make and are guaranteed to wow your partner or guests!

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“QUALITY FOOD IS ALL ABOUT THE QUALITY OF INGREDIENTS AND NOT THE COMPLEXITY OF THE COOKING TECHNIQUE” 58

GREEN APPLE, STRAWBERRY & FETA SALAD Method Make the mustard vinaigrette by whisking the two mustards together with the cider vinegar, honey, salt and pepper. Now slowly whisk in the olive oil in a gentle stream in order to form the emulsion. Keep refrigerated till use. Clean and dry the mixed lettuce. In a dry bowl, add half the mustard dressing, the mixed lettuce and mix thoroughly to coat.

Serves 2 Mixed lettuce (Iceberg lettuce, Lollo rosso, Arugula) Green apple sliced into thin strips Strawberries Pine nuts lightly toasted Feta cheese crumbled Dijon mustard Grain mustard Olive oil Apple cider vinegar Honey Salt and pepper ��

3 cups 1 1 cup 2 tbsp 100 gms 1 tbsp 1 tbsp 3 tbsp 1 tbsp ½ tbsp to taste

Check for taste and seasoning adding more dressing if needed. Place the salad on the plate and top with the sliced green apple, strawberries, toasted pine nuts and feta cheese.

TIP: Can be made without strawberries. You may use orange instead. 59

CHICKEN PICCATA Method Using a sharp knife, butterfly the chicken breasts and cut in half. Season the chicken with salt and pepper and dredge lightly in flour. In a large non-stick pan, melt two tablespoons of butter with the olive oil and turn the heat to medium. When the butter and oil start to sizzle, add two chicken breasts and cook for about two to three minutes. When the chicken is browned, flip and cook on the other side for the same amount of time. Remove and transfer to a plate. Repeat the process for the other two pieces of chicken and set aside.

Serves 2 Boneless chicken breasts Flour for dredging Butter Olive oil Lemon juice Chicken stock Brined capers (rinsed) Fresh parsley (chopped) Salt Pepper ��

2 per person As required 4 tbsp 2 tbsp 3 tbsp ½ cup ¼ cup ¼ cup to taste to taste

Add the lemon juice, stock and capers into the same pan. Return the pan to the stove and bring mixture to a boil, scraping up the brown bits from the pan for extra flavour. Check the seasoning. Return all the chicken to the pan and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove the chicken to a platter. Add the remaining two tablespoons of butter to the sauce and whisk vigorously. Pour the sauce over the chicken and garnish with chopped parsley.

CHOCOLATE FONDANT

Makes 4 portions Baker’s chocolate 100 gms Butter (salted) 50 gms Butter (unsalted) 50 gms Refined flour 20 gms Castor sugar 50 gms Eggs whole 2 each Egg yolks 2 each Butter (salted) 1 tbsp Refined flour 1 tbsp Cocoa powder ½ tbsp

Method Preheat the oven to 200OC (400OF). Prepare your metal moulds by brushing the inside with butter and then dusting with a mixture of cocoa powder and refined flour. Keep these in the refrigerator for at least an hour. Melt together the baker’s chocolate, the salted butter, and the unsalted butter in a sauce pot over a low to medium flame. Once melted, remove from the flame and mix in the refined flour. Whisk the castor sugar, whole eggs and egg yolks together and fold these into the chocolate mixture to form a light batter. Pour the batter into the prepared moulds. Allow to sit overnight for a better texture. When ready, bake the fondants in the preheated oven at 200OC for about 12 minutes. Remove from the oven when done and de-mould onto a plate immediately. Serve with vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce.

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NOTCH ��

��

ell us about your performance at the Grammys after party in Los Angeles? I had the privilege of performing during an 11pm prime time slot – before the DJ. My set list for the show was six of my own songs some of which feature in my upcoming EP, Tangled In Emotion.

When did you start singing and why the move to LA? I started training as a classical Carnatic singer at the age of four (the same time I started dancing). In high school, at my sister’s insistence, I cut an album. In college I auditioned for the school choir and before I knew it I was selected for a competition and I won a prize! Subsequently I was in a band – that’s when I started thinking about taking music seriously. In my third year at college I knew I wasn’t meant for B.Com (Hons), so I elected to go to Musicians Institute, Hollywood. Hence my move to LA to follow my dream of being a singer/dancer.

But why not dance as opposed to music? I still love dance and practise it. Once I graduate I plan to spread my knowledge of Indian culture through story telling in dance and music. In fact, I have something very special planned for Tangled In Emotions but it’s not time to give it away – not yet.

What is your song writing influenced by?

influenced by Carnatic music. And my ideas always come to me when I am sad! According to listeners here, many of the scales I use in my songs are distinctly Indian-sounding. My lyrics are inspired by poetry and most importantly by the story-telling nature of the Kuchipudi dance form itself, which I perceive as being very similar in structure to a melody. For instance, the chorus is akin to the rhythmic catchy jathis (combination of steps) in a Kuchipudi item.

What is Tangled In Emotions about? About a girl being so emotionally damaged that she can’t trust anyone completely including her lover and she tells him in the chorus, “Don’t cry for me lover for all I can feel is dolor (grief).’’

You have legendary parents – how much did they influence your creativity? My dad is my biggest inspiration. His passion for dance, his thought process and his incredible commitment to choreography is what I wish to live by.

Where do you see yourself five years down the line? Hard question! But perhaps at the level of Madonna – so I can get people to respect Indian classical culture and ensure that young kids in schools don’t demean it or are shamelessly unaware of it. People here are in awe of our culture, so why shouldn’t we know more about it instead of aping the West?

My song writing, melody wise, is very

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NOTCH ��

From clothes, shoes to makeup, the red carpet is gleaming with all things metallic. The NOTCH Look Book tells you how to get those eyes into rock-chic mode.

y v a e h l a t e m

What you need: 1.Eye primer (you don’t need it, but it’s great for keeping shadow in place). 2. Two shadows: one light, one darker (can be brown, black, dark blue etc). 3. Black eyeliner. 4.Makeup brushes. 5.Black mascara

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Steps: �Always start with the primer so that your eye shadow is in place.

�Using a light coloured shadow, apply the powder to the inside corner of your eye extending the makeup up and across to the centre of your eye.

�Apply eyeliner to the upper line, subtly thickening the makeup line as you reach the corner of the eyes.

�Using a dark coloured shadow, begin applying the powder to the outer corner of your eye. Gently spread the dark makeup up and over, keeping the shadow at the outer lash line most concentrated. This will help give your eyes an alluring gradient result which will capitalise on the smoky effect of the look. You could also apply more shadow across the lash line as a means of smudging the liner thereby creating a smudgy version of the `smoky eyes’ look.

�Finish with 2-3 coats of mascara. Coat both the upper and lower lashes so that you get a more glamorous set of lashes. Courtesy: Poonam Sharma, MD, Vedic Spa Mantra

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NOTCH ��

Bipasha Basu promises to help you shed those kilos with her Bollywood dance styled exercising that combines a powerful workout and loads of fun

get

HIPSlike

BIPS ��

f you were under the impression that the jhatkaas and matkaas employed by the lissom lasses of B-Town were only meant to serve as eye candy for the masses, think again. Fitness junkie and Bong bombshell Bipasha Basu, has now come up with a fitness DVD that combines the rigor of Bollywood dancing with the discipline of aerobics. Titled BreakFree, the program features Bipasha using the familiar template of filmy dance moves, with easy to follow steps to help lose weight and get into shape. Bips, who possesses arguably the most bootylicious bod in Bollywood, had previously come up with a wellness DVD called Fit and Fabulous You. Talking about the routines demonstrated by her in the new DVD, Bipasha says, “BreakFree is for people who want to lose weight in a fun way, but can’t be bothered with following a regular gym routine. Everybody pays through their nose to join a gym. In the end, nobody even

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goes there. So I decided to come up with a program that will help folks shed those pounds in a fun manner at their own time and convenience.” Doing away with the boredom of ordinary fitness regimes, Bipasha’s vision for an enjoyable alternative workout stemmed from a combination of her two hobbies, dancing and exercising. According to her, the sure shot circuit training routines shown in the DVD are aimed at sculpting and toning bodies while dancing your way to a fitter and chiselled you. Bips goes on to add, “Looking good is just the extra bonus. If your health is perfect, every aspect of your life becomes fantastic. Your focus in life gets better and you achieve your goals faster.”

BIPASHA’S FITNESS MANTRA To be strong and healthy, you need to love yourself.

Exercising and eating right is the biggest challenge. Accept this if you love yourselves.

Make time for your own self. No one else will.

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NOTCH ��

two timing can be exciting!

wo-toned nails are all the rage. From Hollywood to Bollywood, this trend is real big now. Katy Perry’s black and white Yin-Yang nails recently created quite a flutter and so did Jessica Biel’s half moon manicure with metallic nail wraps. Closer home, Bollywood stars have been setting their own two-tone trends. Sonam loves to flaunt bold dual colour nails while Kareena does it with sober hues. Getting this look is not tough. All it takes is two complementary or contrasting nail colours and some imagination. This quirky twist on the French manicure blends two

tones of nail colour with designs. For a basic design, use simple coloured tips and half-moon manicures at the base of the nail. For evenings try adding a metallic tip or add a few crystals for effect. From fashion designers sending their models sashaying down the ramp with two-toned nails to celebrities around the world getting more innovative and wilder by the day, this look is here to stay! Find your own favourite expression now.

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NOTCH ��

DATE DESTINY

Tarot reader Sheetal Dewan is a gifted psychic whose intuitive predictions have guided several celebs and industrialists

WITH

GEMINI

ARIES TAURUS

CANCER

VIRGO

SCORPIO

LEO

LIBRA

SAGITTARIUS

AQUARIUS

CAPRICORN ��

PISCES 71

TAURUS

ARIES

April 20 to May 20

ARIES

This is a month of endings and beginnings for you, Aries. You will let go of people that serve no purpose to you anymore and allow new ones to enter your life. Your social skills at work will take you very far. Those trying to come up with a work plan will achieve success. Arians in business could face some staff associated issues - so be cautious.

On the work front: Your strongest traits this month are your marketing skills and your ability to be diplomatic. Make the best use of these qualities.

Financially speaking: It’s a start to a year filled with opportunities. If you tackle things well between the 14th and 22nd of March as far as payments are concerned, the month will prove extremely fruitful. Spontaneous travel is on the cards. Money meter: £££ Word of warning: Avoid getting angry with your colleagues and read the fine print before signing a document this month.

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TAURUS

March 21 to April 19

You’ve recently worked yourself out of politically charged circumstances unscathed, so count your blessings and move forward with intelligence. You will interact with loads of people this month therefore make sure that you use the opportunity to network, as new fruitful projects are coming your way. Work that has been delayed for a long time may fructify by the 10th of the month. Individuals who are looking for work in the fields of entertainment and public relations may get lucky. Those who have started a partnership however, need to be slightly careful - don’t create disharmony with your old partners.

On the work front: There are opportunities for a raise and for growth. You may shift from one designation to another. Financially speaking: You are entering a good period but be careful of overspending until August. There is new vehicle coming your way if you so choose to buy it. Money meter: £££ Word of warning: At work, an overaggressive attitude with seniors should be avoided.

GEMINI

CANCER

Your elemental energy allows you to go from zero to a hundred in no time at all! This month you are required to harness this energy around you and get it going to maximum strength. Your financial growth will come out of your own efforts. Geminis who are interested in the fields of hospitality, sales and the food business will do exceedingly well. On the work front: Your colleagues may put some hindrances in your path however, do not give them too much attention.

Financially speaking: You need to be cautious as your outgoings are far more than your incomings. Make sure that you construct a plan of action for this year and stick to it. The period between 12th and 25th March will be extremely fruitful if you choose to invest. If you are interested in buying a house or an office space keep in mind that an east or north entry will suit you best. There is travel but during the second half of the month.

June 21 to July 22

CANCER

GEMINI

May 21 to June 20

Moonchild, you are now in the spotlight — you’ve been in the shadows too long. This month will enable you to get out there and shine bright. Cancerians who work in the fields of art and entertainment will receive the recognition and applause they wanted. Your confidence will be high and your work situation will improve. At work don’t trust everyone — take a more realistic approach. Invest your money in real estate or a bond for a long term period between the 23rd and the 30th. There’s always been an innate desire in you to travel and see the world Moonchild, and the first half of this month shall allow you to do so. However, it’s important for you to keep your spending under control. This is a month for investments. On the work front: Keep a lid on your over-confidence as you may come across as overbearing and impossible.

Money meter: £££

Money meter: ££££

A word of warning: Be cautious of what you say and be clear with your colleagues as you tend to get misinterpreted. This could lead to delays in work.

A word of warning: Please do not get involved in short term financial gains as you will be cheated.

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LEO

VIRGO

July 23 to August 22

On the work front: A few issues at the work place may erupt due to ego clashes and you will have to use your diplomatic skills to sort things out. Financially speaking: You are stepping into a period that is smooth sailing both on the personal as well as professional front. Don’t allow anyone to steal your thunder. Money meter: £££ A word of warning: You will have to voice your opinions in a tactful and diplomatic manner.

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You are undoubtedly the most misunderstood sign and this month if you want to succeed, you will have to get the job done yourself. It’s time you paid attention to the minor details. Focus on a team building plan that allows you to take on spontaneous projects when they come your way. Virgos in the fields of sales, advertising and creative work will do well this month. There are certain challenges coming your way so do be careful with investments and read the fine print! An impromptu trip is also on the cards that will allow more business to flow in.

VIRGO

LEO

My dear lion, a crisis manager would be the best way to describe you to yourself. There will be a lot that you will have to manage this month. You are entering a period of decision making, not only for yourself but for others as well. These decisions concern your own financial security as well as the monetary safety of a loved one. Leos who are doctors and specialists should take care that their staff does not cheat them over money. Leos who are working in research in the academic field will see a breakthrough in their work. There is travel and growth coming your way so make sure that the team you leave behind can deliver.

August 23 to September 22

On the work front: Those wanting to change professions must be cautious before doing so as the grass is not always greener on the other side. Financially speaking: It’s a start towards a better period. You may have to work very hard on your finances initially but you will enter a far more stable period financially post the 25th of this month. Money meter: ££ A word of warning: Don’t say no to anything - even if it’s a small job.

SCORPIO

LIBRA

October 23 to November 21

LIBRA

You have a deceptive appearance Libra. You may come across as a passive leader but in actuality you are a very tough and selfish leader - selfishness here is used in a positive way. This month you should harness this tough approach and be a bit tactful with your colleagues and business partners. Librans in creative fields will see their net worth increasing. They could also partner with others on large projects. Librans in the financial field need to look intently at their sales and marketing departments if they want their work to do well. If you are forming a new business venture partnerships are not the way to go as they will not work for you. On the work front: You may need to practice patience as you will feel that people around you are incompetent.

SCORPIO

September 23 to October 22

Scorpio, an unsorted pile of building blocks lies in front of you. You have two alternatives: one to look at these as some rubbish, get irritated with the mess and chuck them out of your life. And two, to constructively look at the blocks and use them to build that castle you’ve always wanted. Even though the latter option seems difficult, my advice would be to choose it. Post the 11th you will enter a period that will allow you to be the best at your game. Scorpios in business will collaborate with others and make profits. You may also end up hiring a lot of people.

On the work front: It is imperative that you hold your head up high and take charge of the situation. Travel is on the cards and it will bring more business into the organisation.

Financially speaking: There will be a few hassles till the 5th. Librans who have court cases running should reassess the situation and re-look at documents before submitting them.

Financially speaking: This is a good year for you Scorpio - all you have to do is show some spunk when the chance comes your way!

Money meter: ££

Money meter: £££££

A word of warning: Do not act impulsively this month - think first.

Word of warning: Do not discuss your ideas with others as they could be stolen.

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SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

Dear Sagittarius, your unconventionality and restless nature are urging you to move forward. You feel tired in your existing environment - you want something wild and far more adventurous! Well, your wishes are about to come true! You are entering an environment from the 22nd onwards that allows you to change your status. If you are in a business, use this new energy to travel and make new contacts as this will ensure that your business grows. New businesses in the fields of communication, property and speculation will prove productive for you.

On the work front: A sense of claustrophobia will not allow you to function to your fullest potential. Do not allow people to get the better of you - create a distance and focus on the task at hand. Travel is on your mind and it shall come your way in the form of a quick trip towards the end of the month.

Financially speaking: It’s time to take stock and start a good savings programme. Money meter: ££ A word of warning: Don’t let people get the better of you this month. Respond to people and don’t react.

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December 22 to January 19

CAPRICORN

SAGITTARIUS

November 22 to December 21

Many times we come across people and face situations that take us back to our past. And Capricorn, you are in one of those situations at the moment — irrespective of the fact that you have entered a financially abundant period post the 2nd of this month. This financial year will begin brilliantly as you are entering an environment that is full of opportunity leading towards security. Capricornians who are interested in starting a new business concerning property will be rewarded. Take care of legalities and tax issues as they may create some concerns for you.

On the work front: Misinterpretations concerning a decision could create disharmony during the second week of March, so be careful. Financially speaking: It’s a big, bright month that will give you the opportunity to stabilise your situation. Travel is not on the chart at the moment. Money meter: £££££ A word of warning: Don’t let your laid-back attitude get you into a tax issue.

AQUARIUS

PISCES

Aquarius, you are adamantly clinging onto an ideology that does not serve you any purpose and you refuse to consider another’s opinion in the matter at hand. You are an extremely intelligent thinker but this rigidity is not allowing you to go forward in your life. So, take a breather and let all this go! From the 13th onwards you enter a period of abundance and financial growth. Business projects that have been delayed will move forward from the 25th of this month. Aquarians involved in trade markets may experience a small loss. People involved in the creative line will be inspired to start something new.

On the work front: You may face issues with promoters and contracts hence it’s important to keep your eye on the ball! From the 22nd to the 29th comes a window of opportunity - make use of this and you will be rewarded.

Financially speaking: The first week of the month may prove to be challenging, but post this you will step into a month of recovery. Impromptu travel for work may leave you exhausted so take care of your health. Money meter: ££££ A word of warning: Your sarcastic tongue and desire to prove someone else wrong needs to kept under control. ��

February 19 to March 20

PISCES

AQUARIUS

January 20 to February 18

Once bitten, twice shy this is a quote that you must learn from. There is someone around you who will pull you down and create issues for you. Open your eyes and look at this person as he/she is not what you perceive him or her to be. This financial year is all about taking the bull by the horns. You are entering a new phase from the 8th of the month - applause, power and position await you. Those of you who are in business should look at investments in property as they will prove extremely fruitful. There is a chance of picking up a new car at the end of the month. Professionals will receive their due.

On the work front: Those who are involved in the media, marketing or sales should work as a team. Lawyers and architects could receive recognition and appreciation. Entrepreneurs could be involved in profitable business ventures, however they must be cautious between the 25th and the 28th and not fight unnecessary battles they cannot win. Financially speaking: It’s the start of an extremely profitable time. Take one day at a time and have fun! Money meter: £££££ A word of warning: Do not fight someone else’s battles as this will create unnecessary miscommunication.

NOTCH ��

Bless my

SOL

Sporting statement footwear is the latest fad, but designer Swati Mehrotra has literally reached for the stars. Her line of quirky sun sign shoes and Zodiac heels are based on the concepts of colour-therapy and Feng Shui

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aries

Aries - Blood Red

March 21 to April 19

Enthusiastic Expressive Impulsive Independent Pioneering Insensitive Self absorbed

taurus Taurus - Blue and White

April 20 to May 20

Gemini - Lemon Yellow with Green May 21 to June 20

Practical Generous Patient Obstinate

Inquisitive Versatile Dexterous Articulate Cheerful Inconsistent at times

gemini

Cancer - Silver and White June 21 to July 22

Protective by nature Tenacious Tough Caring Possessive

cancer

Leo - Bright Gold

July 23 to August 22

leo

Extravagant Creative Dignified Domineering Passionate Haughty

virgo

Virgo - Green as well as multi-coloured

August 23 to September 22

Meticulous Critical Analytical Practical Pedantic Passionate ��

Libra - Blue and Pink September 23 to October 22

Diplomatic Amenable Charming Romantic

libra Sagittarius - Yellow and Purple

Scorpio

Scorpio - Deep Red April October 23 to November 21

Magnetic Intense Secretive Wilful Remonstrative Thoughtful

November 22 to December 21

Optimistic Freedom-loving Idealistic Philosophical Honest

n r o c i r cap Capricorn - Grey

December 22 to January 19

Dutiful Industrious Loyal Enduring Ambitious Selfish

sagittarius Pisces - Sea Green

February 19 to March 20

Aquarius - Navy Blue

January 20 to February 18

Humanitarian Sociable Jovial Compassionate

aquarius ��

Sensitive Sacrificing Compassionate Imaginative

pisces 80

NOTCH ��

WORD UP! Wondering what to read? Here’s a selection of some of the e-books making waves in the subcontinent

Publisher: Random House, India

In this work of non-fiction, V.S. Ramachandran investigates with great enthusiasm strange, unforgettable cases — from patients who believe they are dead to those who suffer from the phantom limb syndrome. He discusses concepts such as unity, continuity, embodiment, privacy, social embedding, free-will, and self-awareness that define the human aspect of ‘self’ and also how each may be disrupted by a specific neurological disorder. With a storyteller’s eye for compelling case studies and a researcher’s flair for new approaches to age-old questions, Ramachandran tackles the most exciting and controversial topics in brain science, including language, creativity, and consciousness. ��

Publisher: Random House, India

Conventional wisdom says that integration into the global marketplace tends to weaken the power of traditional faith in developing countries. But, as Meera Nanda argues, this is hardly the case in today’s India. Against expectations of growing secularism, India has seen a remarkable intertwining of Hinduism and neo-liberal ideology, spurred on by a growing capitalist class. India’s rapid economic growth is attributable a movement of Hindu revival, which by itself has become big business as well as a major source of capital accumulation. A potent mix of sociology and economics, Nanda explores the struggle for secularism and socialism in the world’s secondmost populous country.

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Publisher: Penguin Books, India

In the heyday of the British Raj, strict social and racial hierarchies governed the social life of New Delhi’s ruling elites. Purpose-built to trumpet the supremacy of the Raj, New Delhi instead came to represent a fading imperial dream in the two decades that followed. The political shifts associated with India’s journey to self-government echoed in the social codes of conduct adopted by the Indian elites of New Delhi, and undermining the Raj’s pomp became a legitimate means of challenging its authority. Closely examining the role of social ritual, interaction and behavior in the shaping of the city and its elite groups, Glittering Decades tells the story of New Delhi and its privileged inhabitants between 1931 and 1952.

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Publisher: Penguin Books, India Famous writers are often reticent about how and why they write, how their ideas and themes develop or how their characters and plots emerge. But in the hands of Sunil Sethi – journalist, columnist and television presenter of Just Books, NDTV’s long-running weekend literary show – they open up in unexpected and fascinating ways. In this selection of 30 of his best interviews from the show, they speak freely and frankly about their craft, their life stories and the nature of their creative impulse. Featured here are literary giants, including Nobel laureates and Booker Prize winners; internationally acclaimed historians, biographers and philosophers; authors of best-selling thrillers, novels and travel books; and brilliant young trendsetters.

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Publisher: Harper Collins, India

China is at an historical point where tradition and modernity, communism and capitalism, chaos and control, amongst other dualities rub up against each other on a daily basis. In her debut book, author Pallavi Iyer delights readers with a witty account of her five-year long experience in China. With a fairly limited knowledge of China when she set out for Beijing in 2002, the author soon became intrigued by the country. A combination of travelogue, reportage and memoir, Pallavi Iyer provides a perceptive analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of the economic process in China.

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Publisher: Harper Collins, India

How did Kundan Shah, a solemn-looking man who seemed destined for a career in business, come to write Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro, one of the looniest scripts in Hindi-movie history? How did some of India’s leading theatre and film talents come together to turn this vision into reality? What makes the incomparable Naseeruddin Shah angry? What were those dead rats doing in the air-conditioned room? You’ll find answers to these and many more questions in this painstakingly researched paean to one of India’s funniest and most iconic films.

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Publisher: Westland Ltd

Jaina Sanga’s debut novel explores a time of extraordinary ferment. When India is poised for Independence and Partition, young Rohini, the daughter of a wealthy Hindu silk-trader, dares to fall in love with Hanif, an ordinary Muslim musician. A relationship with Hanif comes with the dangers and thrills that Rohini has only read of in Western novels. Yet it also threatens to sever her from everything safe and familiar – the sea-facing bungalow in Bombay, the security of familial love, the blessed ease of an arranged marriage to an affluent diamond merchant newly returned from South Africa. As India claims that dream of sovereignty, Rohini must opt for one of two lives.

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Publisher: Westland Ltd The classic tale of Shakuntala and Dushyanta has enthralled Indians for millennia. The subject of the great Sanskrit play by Kalidasa, it has influenced a thousand love stories – be it in films, TV shows or novels. The tale captures the unusual pairing of a rustic sage’s daughter and the arrogant young king who falls passionately in love with her, only to forget her once her as he returns to his kingdom. Or has he truly forgotten? Now told in Ashok Banker’s inimitable epic style, this short novella also forms a part of the larger epic Mahabharata series.

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STOCKLIST

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