October edition Vision Asia

Back in the reckoning Bold and Brazen

Parineeti Chopra

Straight Talk

Amitabh Bachchan

BTOWN’S BTOWN’S

Lucky Mascot SONAKSHI SINHA

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Looking ahead at home insurance Most homeowners are aware of the importance of insuring what is likely to be their biggest asset: their home. But now, the way lots of Kiwis go about insuring their homes is having to change.

Help is at hand for homeowners IAG and its brands and partners are supporting this change with a range of tools and information, including a website explaining the changes and a user-friendly online calculator that can help estimate the likely cost of rebuilding many New Zealand homes.

For more information go to need2know.org.nz

Sonakshi Sinha started her career as a costume designer and walked the ramp before making her debut with Salman Khan in the super hit movie Dabaang in 2010 and went on to win the Filmfare award for Best Female debut for the movie. Sonakshi has since been a part of some of the highest grossing films like Son of Sardar, Rowdy Rathore, Dabaang 2, all of them being a part of the Rs 100 crore club. Sonakshi opens up to Vision Asia in an exclusive interview on her trials & tribulations in Bollywood, her latest release Rambo Rajkumar, even her dream man.

Vision Asia has some sizzling new programmes on air this October.

New soaps include Buddha based on the story of Gautama Buddha and Khelti hai Zindage Aankh Micholi on Zee TV, Desh ki beti Nandini on Sony, Iss Pyar ko kya Naam doon. Ek Baar Phir on Star Plus, Ek Boond Ishq on Life OK and the recently started Lapataganj Ek Baar Phir & Gutar Goon on SAB TV. Mahabharat is having a strong run on Star Plus. A new show targeted at kids, Katha Mahadev Putra Bal Ganesh Ki, has started on Life OK.

Reality shows include My way Ma’s way on Zee TV, Sanjeev Kapoor Ke Kitchen Khiladi on Sony, Chase the Monsoon on MTV. The excitement has picked up in the Bigg Boss house as well in Season 7 on Colors.

Super hit movies of the month include TV premiers Bhaag Milkha Bhaag Shootout at Wadala, Yeh Jawaani hai Deewani & Arjun. Other movies include Jolly LLB, Ek Tha Tiger, Ek Thi Dayaan, Jab tak hai Jaan, Dostana, Chak de India, Mere Dad ki Maruti. Classic movies of the month include Dev Saab’s Hare Rama Hare Krishna, Guide, Jewel thief.

Tamil programmes to watch include Pudu Kavidhai, Coffee with DD (Divya Darshini) on Vijay TV.

We hope you liked our new format of listing as a handy pull out. Vision Asia wishes all our viewers a very happy Navratri, Dussera, Eid ul Adha.

We would like to hear from you, do write to us at feedback@visionasia.co.nz

Team Vision Asia

Note: Daylight Savings Time began on 29th Sep. The changes in programme timings reflect in the Programme guide.

CREDITS

Editor Quanith Ilahi

Associate Editor Manishaa Rajender Mandlecha

Writers Subhash K Jha, Tarla Dalal, Manishaa Rajender Mandlecha Designer Quanith Ilahi

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Auckland Help Desk Tel (ALL NZ): 0508 933 546 Tel (AU CKLAND): 09 621 0520 Fax: 09 629 4852 www.visionasia.co.nz feedback@visionasia.co.nz

Contents 10 QUICK UPDATES A peek into B-town’s latest happenings 22 TRAVEL Rome-The Eternal City

26 OPINION Bollywood reacts to the Mumbai rape incident 44 FASHION Karisma Kapoor

Cover Story 12

Sonakshi Sinha B-town’s lucky mascot

36 GLITZ & GLAMOUR What are Bollywood celebs upto?

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B BUZZ

Esha Gupta in London for Elton John concert

Actress Esha Gupta is busy shooting in London these days for her upcoming movie Humshakal, with Saif Ali Khan.

Esha has exciting plans in the month long schedule in London, but her first priority is to catch a live concert of Sir Elton John, when the time permits. She is a huge fan of the famed musician and had even made elaborate arrangements to attend his concert recently but last minute costume trials compelled her to cancel her plans. The actress is now waiting with her fingers crossed when the singer-musician announces his next concert, provided it happens in her month long schedule. Is Elton John listening?

B BUZZ

Ayushmann Khurrana releases first album

Ayushmann Khurrana deserves to be called the most versatile newcomer in B-town. After exploring multi-faceted characters in films like Vicky Donor and Nautanki Saala, Ayushmann recently turned assistant director with Madras Café. He is also a talented singer in his own right. The latest on Ayushmann’s front is his debut album, ‘O Heeriye’, which he released on the eve of his birthday. The actor reveals that he was always inclined towards writing and composing music. “I composed Paani da Rang and Saadi Galli in school. There are around 8 to 10 songs that I have composed, so I thought it was the right time to come out with my own album.”

As if that is not enough, Ayushmann will also be seen singing in Yash Raj Productions’ next opposite Sonam Kapoor.

Akshay has a great regard for Mithun

We often hear of on-screen camaraderie extending to off-screen friendships but few actors tend to take their friendships with co-stars seriously. However, there are exceptions, like the good at heart Akshay Kumar and the affable Mithun Chakraborty, who have lately become the best of friends. The two actors, who will be seen sharing screen space in the upcoming film Boss, have been bonding big-time off the sets. In the film, Mithun plays the role of Akshay Kumar’s father, a role that he had earlier essayed in the film, Chandi Chowk to China.

When Akshay Kumar was recently asked about his equation with Mithun, he revealed that he had immense respect and reverence for the veteran actor. “I even take advice from him for some scenes. He is a father figure to me,” Akshay revealed.

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B BUZZ

Illeana D’Cruz says no to bikini After receiving rave reviews for her role in Barfi!, Illeana D’Cruz is back with her second film Phata Poster Nikla Hero. The actress has been offered quite a few roles ever since but she has been firmly refusing some of them due to certain apprehensions. The actress reveals that she is averse to the idea of wearing a bikini on screen, but that is not because she is shy of wearing one. Apparently, Ileana feels that she is simply does not have the figure to carry off a bikini. “I don’t think I have the body for a bikini. I have been fighting with my trainer that I want a body like Deepika but it may be some time before I am able to achieve that kind of a figure.”

Strangely enough while most actresses are ready to go under the knife for their near-perfect appearances, Ileana is reluctant to do any such thing. “I hate to undergo any surgeries to look good. I am happy with the way I look. Even my dentist advised me to go for tooth correction as I have crooked teeth but I refused to get it straightened,” says the actress.

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Q

QUICK UPDATE

update UICK

D

eepika Padukone is on a career high after the phenomenal success of Chennai Express. The latest news is that the actress is now heading to Hollywood and has been roped in for the Fast and Furious franchise. According to reports, Deepika is all set to make her Hollywood debut opposite Jason Statham, Dwayne Johnson and Vin Diesel in the seventh installment of the film.

The actress, who is currently shooting for Happy New Year, will be next seen in the Tamil film Kochadaiyaan, opposite superstar Rajnikanth.

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ctress Anushka Sharma will be seen essaying a double role for the first time in her career in Anurag Kashyap's Bombay Velvet. According to reports, one of the roles that Anushka plays is that of a jazz singer, while Ranbir Kapoor plays a street fighter in the film. Bombay Velvet is the first of Anurag Kashyap’s trilogy on the evolution of the city through the ’50s to the early ’70s and how the city became a metropolis, set against the backdrop of love, greed, violence and jazz.

The first schedule of the film was shot in July 2013 in Sri Lanka.

K

aran Johar has finallly zeroed in on Kareena Kapoor to play the leading lady opposite Hrithik Roshan in his next home-production, Shuddhi. The intense love story to be directed by Karan Malhotra, will bring together Hrithik and Kareena almost a decade after they last shared screen space in Main Prem Ki Deewani Hoon. According to Karan Johar, Kareena is the ideal actress for the intense love story based on a reincarnation theme. The film will go on the floors by the end of this year and will release during Diwali 2014

QUICK UPDATE

Charan recently made his Bollywood debut with the remake of Zanjeer, which did not get the desired response at the box-office.

Salman who is currently shooting Atul Agnihotri’s Ó Teri and Sajid Nadiadwala’s Kick, besides the reality show Bigg Boss 7, is likely to start the film next year. Ram Charan and Salman bonded big time during the celebrity cricket league in 2013

J

ohn Abraham and Hrithik Roshan played negative roles in the first and second installments of Dhoom and now, all eyes are on Aamir Khan’s performance in a negative avatar in Dhoom 3, which is also one of the most anticipated films of the year. Reportedly, Aamir is leaving no stone unturned for his role in the film. Besides following a strict diet to keep his BMI in check, the actor has hired a British trainer as well. The perfectionist actor, who is seen shirtless in the poster of the film, is said to have used a lot of acrobatic skills to pull off heists. It may be recalled that Aamir had earlier got eight-pack abs for his role in Ghajini.

A

fter swinging to the beats of popular songs like Bachana Ae Haseeno and Badtameez Dil in his earlier films, Ranbir Kapoor will be shaking a leg in true bhangra style in his forthcoming film, Besharam. Ranbir, who essays the character of a streetsmart, fun-loving, Punjabi car mechanic in the film, is said to have trained in the vibrant dance form for days, in order to get the movements right. Besharam is set for an October 2 release.

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A

ctress Priyanka Chopra has opted out of Ekta Kapoor’s Milan Talkies, reportedly due to differences with her rumored exboyfriend, Shahid Kapoor. Ekta Kapoor has however cited date problems as the reason for Priyanka opting out of the film. Aashiqui 2 actress, Shraddha Kapoor has replaced Priyanka in the film. Ekta had earlier replaced Imran Khan with Shahid Kapoor in the project due to alleged differences with Imran during the promotion of Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai Dobara.

ost helping his two brothers Sohail and Arbaaz Khan to establish their own production houses, Salman Khan is now set to officially launch his own production house, Salman Khan Productions with the remake of Subhash Ghai’s yesteryear super-hit, Hero.

Salman had acquired the remake rights of the film a year ago from Subhash Ghai and had told him about his desire to launch his own banner with the film. The film, to be directed by Nikhil Advani, will be the launch pad for Aditya Pancholi’s son Sooraj and Suniel Shetty’s daughter Athiya.

I

f reports are to be believed, south star Ram Charan Teja is likely to be roped in by Salman Khan for his next production. Ram

H

rithik Roshan’s rocking dance moves in his forthcoming sci-fi flick, Krrish 3, have become a hot rage among his fans. The recently released 15-second teaser of his new song from the film, Raghupati Raghav, has already become an instant hit online. The video has reportedly got over 4 lakh hits in less than 24 hours of its release. In the video, Hrithik is seen flaunting his formidable physique while performing on stage to a rocking party number. Krrish 3 is scheduled for a Diwali release this year.

A

bhishek Bachchan will be seen playing the parallel lead with Shah Rukh Khan in Farah Khan’s Happy New Year. The film also marks the coming together of Abhishek and Shah Rukh after a span of seven years.

Abhishek and SRK had last worked together in Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna. They were also supposed to come together in Farah Khan's directorial debut, Main Hoon Na, but the role eventually went to Zayed Khan. Happy New Year is currently being shot in Dubai. www.visionasia.co.nz | October 2013

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COVER STORY

I AM IN THE

RIGHT SPACE OF LIFE SONAKSHI SINHA

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COVER STORY

The critics have been generous in their praise for Sonakshi Sinha’s performance in Lootera and Once Upon A Time in Mumbaai Dobara (OUATIMD).

The latter has failed to generate excitement at the box-office but Sonakshi seems to be unperturbed by the box-office ups and downs. She has had a spate of hits to her credit and is confident that a flop or two will not affect her career. Standing tall, the actress opens up about her four year old journey in the industry, her contemporaries, her co-stars and her films on the anvil, in a conversation with S Bhagat. www.visionasia.co.nz | October 2013

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COVER STORY

I am not worried about how much a film is making at the box office.

I just want my work to be appreciated

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COVER STORY

Personal Life

I have immense respect for Akshay. He was the first actor with whom I signed a film after Salman Khan’s Dabangg You seem to be in one of the best phases in your career with filmmakers and co-stars considering you as their lucky mascot. How does it feel?

I wouldn’t know whether I am a lucky mascot but I am quite happy with the current phase of my career. I have had no formal training in acting which is why I am enjoying the process of filmmaking more than anyone else. I am learning and unlearning a lot of things with each film. I find it exciting to meet new directors and actors with every film. I am not worried about how much a film is making at the box office. I just want my work to be appreciated.

Your last release Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai Dobara did not get the desired response at the box-office? Did you feel disappointed?

There are various factors at play in the success or failure of a film. The actor and director are only one part of the whole process, so you cannot hold them solely responsible. On my part, I make sure that I do justice to my role and enjoy the whole process of filmmaking. I don’t get disappointed if a film does not work at the box-office.

OUATIMD was also your third film with Akshay Kumar. How has your equation with him grown over the years?

I have immense respect for Akshay. He was the first actor with whom I signed a film after Salman Khan’s Dabangg. I did not have much experience in films then but both Salman and Akshay went out of their way to make me feel comfortable.

Akshay and I share a great working relationship today.

Your party song in Akshay Kumar’s forthcoming film, Boss, has generated great curiosity? Can you tell us something about it?

It’s a peppy dance club number and is one of the highlights of the film. When

Akshay and director Anthony D'Souza approached me for the song, I was more than eager to do it. It’s a song with a difference and we shot for 12 hours at a stretch. I had to work hard and push myself to get the steps as perfectly as I could, but I really enjoyed doing it.

Are you open to doing item numbers in films?

I am not averse to dance numbers. I don’t like them being referred to as item songs either. They are differently shot dance numbers and add to the entertainment value of the film. The people who consider them questionable have a different mindset. I have got dance numbers right from my first film, after which I did a song in Himmatwala and then Joker. The Govinda song in Oh My God was also different. As far as I am concerned, I've always believed in doing things that I can sit and watch with my family. I have stuck to that and I will continue to do so in the future.

After having worked with the top most actors of the industry, are you now consciously trying to work with the younger lot of actors like Ranveer, Imran and Shahid Kapoor, with whom you will be seen in Rambo Rajkumar?

I started my career with Salman Khan on his recommendation and then I signed a film opposite Akshay Kumar. I was thrilled to work with superstars at an early stage in my career. I got films one after the other with all the senior stars and there was no question of refusing any of them. I was fortunate that they considered me good enough to work with. I am nine films old now and I am glad that I am also getting the opportunity to work with actors of my age.

Your earlier films have crossed the Rs 100 crore mark. Do you feel the pressure of living up to expectations?

Being a part of the Rs 100 crore club has certainly helped my career but it doesn’t

Born into a film family, Sonakshi Sinha is the youngest of three children of actor-politician Shatrughan Sinha and Poonam Sinha. Of her twin older brothers, Luv Sinha was always inclined towards acting and made his debut with Sadiyaan in 2010 and her other brother Kush is training to be a director. So it was a foregone conclusion that Sonakshi would make it in films. However, Sonkashi was disinterested in the profession and opted to study fashion designing at SNDT Women’s University. Sonkashi’s tryst with films began when she designed the costumes for films like Mera Dil Leke Dekho in 2005. She then featured as the show stopper in ‘The Lakme Fashion Week’ in 2008 and 2009.

First Break

It was Salman Khan who goaded the young Sonakshi to lose weight and give films a try. When Arbaaz Khan offered her Dabangg opposite Salman, Sonakshi seriously took to losing weight, which was a difficult task for her. She lost 30 kgs to make it into films. Sonakshi had no formal training in acting but the actress attended some workshops to make herself camera friendly before starting out. Dabangg went on to set a record at the box-office. It was the highest grossing film of 2010. The actress also went on to win the debutant awards of the year. There was no looking back for Sonakshi thereafter.

www.visionasia.co.nz | October 2013

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COVER STORY

Being a part of the Rs 100 crore club has certainly helped my career but it doesn’t pressurize me pressurize me. It’s just that expectations have risen and I want to rise above those expectations. When I first did Dabangg, I wasn’t sure how well I would be accepted by the audiences, but they connected to my character in the film very well. My role in Rowdy Rathore had a similar impact. I would like to receive the same encouraging response from audiences for every film I do. I have a different ideology about success.

What is your idea of success?

For me success is to be able to wake up in the morning and look forward to working on the sets the next day. I treat work as worship, as I am very passionate about work. Money is not so important for me. My parents can look after me.

What I earn is taken care of by my mother. I ask them for money whenever I feel the need to and that is success for me. Fortunately for me, a majority of my films have also worked well at the box office.

You seem to be more comfortable in the conservative Indian look in most of the roles that you have done. Will we ever see you in a full-fledged glamorous role in a film?

All of my films have been in the Indian space. I think that’s because people appreciated me in the desi avatar in my first film and it worked for me. Thereafter, producers and directors offered me roles in the more traditional look, knowing that it would suit me. For instance, Ajay Devgn often says that I look like a typical Hindi film heroine of yesteryears. I don’t choose roles based on what clothes I will be wearing. If my fans would like to see me in western wear, I am equally comfortable in jeans and shirts but I do have certain principles and I believe in going by them. I am not comfortable in skin shows nor am I open to the idea of kissing on screen.

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Aren’t you anxious of getting typecast?

At this point in time I am not worried. I have never been competitive nor am I the contender for the number one position. I am still exploring roles. My last film, Lootera was different and people appreciated my work in it. I have a long way to go.

You said you were not very comfortable kissing on screen. Was that the reason your mother was there on the sets when you were doing intimate scenes for OUATIMD? My mother wasn’t there. My mother often comes on the sets to give food. She is fond of feeding people and loves to cook for others. Everyone on the sets loves her food too. My parents trust me implicitly and know that I won’t do anything to offend them or hang their heads down in shame. They have given me enough freedom to choose the roles that I want to do.

How do you react to gossip linking you to your co-stars? Sometime back, there was news that you were seeing Ranveer Singh? How do your parents react to it?

I don’t react at all. I don’t feel the need to react unless it’s necessary. Earlier, I would get worried but then I have been brought up in a house of actors. Fortunately for me, my parents are in the same industry too, so they know how it is.

Who are your friends in the industry?

I have made a lot of friends in the industry but they are there only on the sets.

Once I am done with my work I am back home. I don’t party as I have a deadline.

Even today the latest I can come home is by 1.00 a.m. unless I am shooting. My friends are all outside the industry and they have been with me since my childhood.

Getting Into The Rs 100 Crore Club

After the success of Dabangg, Sonakshi was flooded with offers. Her first release in 2012, Rowdy Rathore, with Akshay Kumar, went on to become a huge boxoffice hit. That was followed by Shirish Kunder’s directorial venture, Joker, once again with Akshay Kumar, which was a huge box office dud. However, Sonakshi returned with a bang in the same year with Son of Sardar and Dabangg 2, both of which set new precedents at the box-office. She was also accorded by ETC Business Awards, as the highest grossing actress of 2012.

The actress also went on to do item numbers and cameo appearances in films. Her special song ‘Go Go Govinda’ with Prabhu Deva in Akshay Kumar’s Oh My God went on to become one of the top grossers of the year.

The Turning Point

Having made her mark with commercial blockbusters, Sonakshi decided to break the mould with her role in Vikramaditya Motwane’s period drama, Lootera, opposite Ranveer Singh. The film not only went on to garner huge critical acclaim, but Sonakshi also won many hearts in the role of a Bengali girl in the film. Her next, Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai Dobara, did not work, but Sonakshi was appreciated for her performance in the film. She is currently shooting for Prabhu Deva's Rambo Rajkumar opposite Shahid Kapoor, Tigmanshu Dhulia's Bullet Raja with Saif Ali Khan and A. R. Murugadoss' tentatively titled film Pistol, opposite Akshay Kumar. She has recently signed Prabhu Deva's untitled next opposite Ajay Devgn

COVER STORY

I don’t like dance numbers being referred to as item songs.

They are differently shot dance numbers and add to the entertainment value of a film How do you relate to the other heroines on the sets?

I share a great rapport with everyone I work with. I don’t go beyond a point. Hence I have never faced any problems with anyone. I laugh and joke on the sets and that is it. Once I am home I am cut off from everybody. But yes, on the sets I am friendly with everyone; we discuss a lot of things. I don’t get into their personal space nor do they mine. I don’t interact with anyone off the sets. I have learnt to be like that from my mother. She has a great relationship with everyone in the industry.

What have you planned ten years down the line?

I don’t know about tomorrow, let alone ten years down the line. I am aware that I won’t last here forever but it is fine. I have no illusions but I don’t think I need to worry about it at this point. I am enjoying work now and I think I am in the right space of my life. I would also love to get married and settle down at some point in life.

What are you looking for in your dream man?

He has to have an amazing sense of humour.

His standard of humour has to be on par with me and my father. He has to be much taller than me. I would prefer not to have an actor as my dream man but you never know what destiny has in store for you. I would also like him to be a sports enthusiast as I play sports and love movies.

For me work is worship as I am passionate about work.

Money is not so important for me

My parents trust me implicitly and know that I won’t do anything to offend them or hang their heads down in shame www.visionasia.co.nz | October 2013

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ENCOUNTER

ENCOUNTER

Shahid Kapoor

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October 2013 | www.visionasia.co.nz

ENCOUNTER

His film, Phata Poster Nikla Hero, has just been released at the box-office and Shahid Kapoor is eager to know about the audience reaction. The response to the film is even more crucial for Shahid, considering that this is the first time he has attempted a role in the comedy genre. The actor, who has been lying low on the career front for some time now, opens up for a frank interview on the film, his career moves and his changing equation with the industry, besides his personal life.

Usually a hero is seen on the poster of a film but you are shown coming out of the poster in your latest film.

(Smiles) That’s what makes the film and its title very special. Also, since my film is releasing after a year, the makers must have thought about this brilliant poster idea.

Jokes apart, it was not easy tearing through the poster. We took three days to perfect the shot. My pants tore off doing the scene and my harness got stuck but the poster still wouldn’t tear. It was only after three days that I managed to tear it.

This is the first time you have attempted a film in the comedy genre. How was the experience?

I have never enjoyed playing any other character so much. In fact, I was excited about the film from the very day when producer Ramesh Taurani told me about the film’s title. It reminded me of Naseruddin Shah and Hero Hiralal. When director Raj Kumar Santoshi later gave me a two hour narration, we were all laughing our hearts out. In the film, I play the role of a fake cop who wants to become a hero and see his posters all over the place. The film is a laugh riot from the word go and I had a fun time doing it.

Your pairing with Ileana Dcruz is quite fresh and unusual. How was the equation between the two of you?

I had seen Ileana in Barfi! and I quite liked her performance in the film. When I heard that she had been confirmed to play the leading lady opposite me, I researched on the kind of films she had done earlier. I found out that she had attempted similar films in the south, some of which had clicked excellently with the audiences. A new pair is always a matter of curiosity for the audiences and I am sure our pairing will be well-received.

How was your equation with Raj Kumar Santoshi?

I am a big follower of Raj Kumar Santoshi’s films, but in this film he has given an altogether new dimension to his sense of comedy. I remember the first thing that Amitabh Bachchan said when I promoted the film on the KBC show, was that I was lucky to be working with a director like Raj Kumar Santoshi. He also told me that Raj-ji is a fantastic director with a great sense of comedy and he takes good care of all his actors. I am sure every actor who works with Raj-ji will say this. His focus is so good that even the worst of your performances can turn good. It’s my first comic performance and I am glad it’s in his film. I have never worked with a director who has such an amazing sense of humour. The man who has made films like Ghayal, Andaz Apna Apna, Damini, Ghatak, Khaki and Ajab Prem Ki Gazab Kahani, has a tremendous passion for comedy.

You have suddenly taken to doing only one film a year, for the last three years.

Is it a deliberate decision?

I don’t have a body of work that I can afford to do just one film a year. I still have a long way to go. Ideally, I should have at least three releases a year, but I was caught up with Mausam, which took time in the making. As a result, I could not spare dates for other films and had to refuse several interesting offers, including the recently released, Shuddh Desi Romance. I was without work for two and half years but I am happy to be back with a film like Phata Poster Nikla Hero.

What did you do in the intervening period?

I was looking at ways where I could start working round the clock once again. I was tired of sitting at home and doing nothing.

Like the hero in this film, I wanted to see myself on the posters with a line-up of films.

Of course, I was hearing scripts as I was offered 17 to 18 films after Mausam but things simply didn’t work out. I wanted to

“I remember the first thing that Amitabh Bachchan said when I promoted the film on the KBC show, was that I was lucky to be working with a director like Raj Kumar Santoshi.” www.visionasia.co.nz | October 2013

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ENCOUNTER

do them but could not go ahead due to logistical issues.

I was like a horse waiting for the race but the doors were not open. Teri Meri Kahaani was my last offering.

Do you feel the pressure of living up to expectations?

How do you react to failures?

When I did Kaminey it was a different film and I knew people would either reject me or accept me on the basis of the promos itself. I am hoping that this film will mark the beginning of more promising things to come. As such, every film is a pressure. If your film is a hit you have to see to it that you do still better in your next film and if your film fails you still have to try and do better. It’s an industry rule. You have to make a comeback every Friday.

“There was a time when I used to look at posters of films and wonder whether I would be able to get my first break.”

Do you still feel that you are struggling to make a mark?

I have been struggling to make a mark since my first film. I never had anyone to guide me. My father has done art house cinema or the socalled parallel films. I had to struggle after my first film. It was a nonstar cast film with no big heroine or hero. The biggest star of the film was music director Anu Mallik, as the music of the film had done well. I am still learning from my mistakes and from the films I have been doing.

I am climbing one step at a time and still have a long way to go.

Your personal life has always been in the news more than your professional life? How do you react to such news?

An actor cannot get affected by the media perception about his personal life. What can we do! There are so many entertainment pages daily that need to be filled up. Gossip and rumours are the hottest topics on these pages. These news stories will stop only if there is a check on the number of entertainment pages in newspapers.

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How would you define brand Shahid Kapoor?

It is hard to define this because I have never followed any strategy to build up my own brand. I am happy about the fact that I have a loving relationship with my audiences, which I do not ever want to lose. Recently, I was at a college event and the response I got from the young crowds was amazing. I have committed many mistakes in my life and I am likely to repeat them in the future too, but I hope I can evolve a brand identity for myself in the days ahead.

Tell us about your forthcoming films.

I have three films this year.

After Phata Poster.., there is Rambo Rajkumar in which I am paired with Sonakshi Sinha.

The film is directed by Prabhu Deva, who is also a brilliant choreographer. It was a great experience dancing with him.

He broke all the bones in my body! Prabhu Deva is not only a great dancer but a great director too. I am also doing Vishal Bharadwaj’s adaptation of Hamlet. Vishal Bharadwaj is known to extract outstanding performances from his actors.

You have been there in the industry for almost a decade now. Looking back how does it feel?

It feels great. There was a time when I used to look at posters of films and wonder whether I would be able to get my first break. In the last ten years I have done 20 films and I am thankful to the people with whom I have worked. I belong to a middle class family and used to live in a rented flat, before joining the industry. The going was tough and I was skeptical of making it. Right now I am giving interviews but there was a time when I used to wait for long hours to meet a filmmaker who would give me my first potential break. So it feels great to achieve all this in a span of 10 years.

TRAVEL

ROME N

THREE MUST-SEE ANCIENT MONUMENTS Colosseum

othing captures the iconic nature of Ancient Rome quite as effectively as the Colosseum, the massive amphitheatre located near the Forum, and the subject of countless calendars, postcards and travel brochures. Now almost 2,000 years old, the Colosseum (also Coliseum) was started by Emperor Vespasian in AD 72 and inaugurated eight years later by his son, Emperor Titus. It was built by Jewish slaves who’d been brought to Rome after the suppression of their revolt in Judaea.

With its 80 arched entrances, the Colosseum could host more than 50,000 spectators. It contained a velarium, a large awning that was used to protect spectators from severe weather, and a podium where the Emperor and other important people sat. The name of the Colosseum may have been derived from the Colossus of Nero, a nearby gilt bronze statue of Emperor Nero.

Gladiatorial battles, in which two men fought to the death, were the main attraction at the Colosseum. Gladiators who were badly wounded were allowed to surrender their fate to the crowd. However, the Emperor was the ultimate judge – a ‘thumbs up’ from him meant the wounded gladiator would live, while a ‘thumbs down’ sealed his fate.

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TRAVEL

O

f all the monuments that encapsulate the tension between various Gods and religions in Ancient Rome, none is as evocative as the Pantheon, located in the Piazza della Rotonda. The first structure was built on this spot between 27 and 25 BC by Marcus Agrippa, and was intended to be a Roman temple of ‘all the Gods’. More than a century later (between AD 118 and 125) Emperor Hadrian built a new temple, which is the one that stands today.

Pantheon

S

The most remarkable architectural features of the Pantheon include the dome, believed to be the widest one of its type in Europe, the large bronze doors (which have been recast), the heavyweight walls, which are more than six metres (20 feet) thick, and the tombs of two of Italy’s monarchs – Vittorio Emanuele II, who united Italy in 1870, and his son, Umberto I. But the feature that gives the Pantheon a surreal, almost otherworldly quality is the oculus, a characteristic of Byzantine and neoclassical architecture. Watching shafts of sunlight stream through the oculus on a clear day, it’s easy to imagine the spell this temple cast over worshipping Romans in ancient times.

Theatre of Marcellus

haped like a mini-Colosseum, this arcaded theatre is, in fact, older than Emperor Vespasian’s amphitheatre, although it could host only between 11,000 and 20,000 spectators in comparison to the Colosseum’s 50,000 or more.

Begun by Julius Caesar, it was completed by his successor Augustus in about AD 13. He named it Teatro di Marcello in honour of his nephew and son-in-law Marcellus, who had died in 23 BC, aged only 19.

During the Middle Ages, the theatre was used as a fortress by the rich Savelli family, and in the 16th century, a grand palace was built on the ruins of the original theatre for the Orsini family. Today, the theatre is a shadow of its former self, but it shouldn’t be overlooked owing to its importance as one of Rome’s oldest ancient monuments

Riteish Deshmukh

NOSTALGIA

Bollywood reacts to the Mumbai gang-rape The recent gang-rape of a Mumbai photo-journalist has sent shock waves all over the city. Subhash K Jha caught up with a section of Bollywood personalities to get their reactions on the incident.

“This ghastly incident is a wake-up call for all Mumbaikars who revel in calling our city the safest in India. The new rape law has not instilled any fear because of lack of faith in law and order. We need to tackle rape at many levels. There’s a deep-rooted misogyny and sexual assault is being used as an instrument of control and power so that women are denied freedom.”

SHABANA AZMI “Is there anything left to be said or done? Haven’t women like me who are supposed to have clout and a voice said it all during the Nirbhaya incident? We need to look for remedial solutions to the horrendous atmosphere of uncertainty and fear that women have to face.

It is also time we took some drastic steps to counter the situation. While fast-track courts and special courts are no doubt a solution, they are still a timeconsuming process. A better solution is to try offenders in crimes against women outside the courts and then just get rid of them. I am sorry if I sound radical and too drastic but the time for pleasant pontification is over.

Some of us may think we have a voice because we’re celebrities. But how much does that voice really matter? During the Nirbhaya case I spoke to so many people in power. Everywhere I was stonewalled by 5-year plans. Don’t they realise that there will be 500 other awful crimes against women in the next five years?”

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“Until recently, I was always proud of Mumbai. It was vibrant yet safe, buzzing with activity at all hours, alive and throbbing with excitement. This news comes as a shocker. I hope the victim will be healed and fine. I felt worse for the fact that she is a photographer, so she may be connected to our film industry. I can’t imagine how painful and traumatic this must be for her and her family. I hope the people who did it are punished severely, so that the next potential rapist will stop short in his tracks.”

JUHI CHAWLA

NOSTALGIA

“When I moved to Mumbai from London, I felt proud to announce that I was living in the safest city in the world. Today the joke is on me. I am ashamed at what is happening in Mumbai. For an atrocity of this magnitude to take place in broad daylight is shocking.

Rape occurs in every part of the world, but it seems most gruesome in India. What fuels these attacks is the lack of fear for the law. Mumbai is not what it used to be even five years ago!”

SOPHIE CHOWDHARY

“The question we should all be asking ourselves is not about Mumbai alone. But is India safe for women? Our men need emancipation. Our laws and the conviction for crimes against women need to become much more stringent and timely. Men who perpetrate crimes against women should be punished swiftly and severely.”

“Mumbai is not safe for women anymore. So far I felt that Mumbai was getting unsafe because of the growing number of slums in the city. But crime against women is on the rise for no given reason. I don’t think it’s safe for a lone woman to travel in Mumbai even by public transportation after dark.”

DIYA MIRZA

RAVEENA TANDON

“How does one know that this was the only rape incident that happened? There may be so many others that are not reported. So far we thought it was just Delhi! I feel the day this country’s men are educated to respect women and stop treating them as mere objects, the rape incidents may come down.”

TAPSEE PANNU

“It is very disheartening and extremely upsetting. But why should we restrict our concern to Delhi or Mumbai? All over the country, measures should be taken to secure the safety of women.”

URMILA MATONDKAR

“I am absolutely horrified. I enjoy going out in the night but now I am scared going out in my own city where I have lived all my life. I never expected Mumbai of all the cities to become a home for such horrific incidents.”

AMYRA DASTUR

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NOSTALGIA

“I cannot believe something like this can happen in my beloved city. Earlier, I used to speak proudly of Mumbai being one of the safest cities in the world for women, no matter where I went. Now after this horrific incident I am appalled and disgusted. The biggest culprit is the legal system. It does not instill fear in the perpetrator. Punishment for rape does not even qualify as punishment and the time taken to “punish” the rapist is laughable. Now when I look back I shudder to think back to all the times when I dropped my young hairdresser at the nearest cab at 4 am after pack-up.”

CELINA JAITLEY

“We used to always be proud of being safe in our city. But now it’s all changed with the demographics changing and people coming in from all over. There is no alternative to check the rise in crime against women other than harsh punishment. This incident should wake up the spirit of Mumbai. We should, in some influential way, punish each one of the criminals. An incident like this makes me sad and angry no matter where it happens.”

NEHA DHUPIA

We need to tackle rape at many levels.

There’s a deep-rooted misogyny and sexual assault is being used as an instrument of control and power so that women are denied freedomShabana Azmi

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October 2013 | www.visionasia.co.nz

NEWS EXPRESS

Preity Zinta is back in the reckoning

Undeterred by the failure of her last film, Ishkq in Paris, Preity Zinta is looking forward to her next big film, Bhaiyyaji Superhit, in which she has been paired with Sunny Deol.

A

fter doing a cameo with Saif Ali Khan in the film, Happy Ending, Preity Zinta is back in Mumbai from the U.S. ‘for good’.

She has resumed shooting in India with Neeraj Pathak’s Bhaiyyaji Superhit where in her own words, she has a “damned interesting role” opposite Sunny Deol. For the first time Preity gets to play a bonafide rustic character. She’s also working hard to rid herself of the subtle American twang she has acquired during her frequent visits to the US, where her brother lives.

Last seen in her homeproduction Ishkq in Paris, the film’s failure left Preity disappointed but undeterred.

Now back in the thick of things Preity says, “I’ve been expanding my horizons, exploring new areas of work-related activity. That is difficult for a lot of my col-

leagues in Bollywood to understand. For them cinema is the sum-total of their activity. I didn’t want my life to be restricted to one vocation.

I’ve done other things.

Now I’m back doing what I am most comfortable doing.”

Preity has recently begun shooting for Bhaiyyaji Superhit in Udaipur. She plays a character from rural Uttar Pradesh. Sunny Deol plays her husband.

“The reason why I am doing this role is because I found it very exciting. I have never played someone quite like this woman. At this juncture of my career when I no longer need to depend on a film career for my livelihood, I can afford to do the roles that excite me.”

About the cameo she did in Saif’s film Preity says, “It’s not just a song.

It’s a role with speaking lines. In fact, I still have a portion of it to shoot here in India. I did it for Saif, who’s a dear friend.” www.visionasia.co.nz | October 2013

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The 100 FootwithJourney Helen Mirren

Om Puri’s heads for

He is among the few Indian actors who is being sought after in international projects for his immense talent and versatility. After playing the lead in international films like East Is East, My Son The Fanatic and West Is West, Om Puri will now be seen in a full-fledged role with the famed Dame Helen Mirren in The 100 Foot Journey. Subhash K Jha finds out more. convenience him. So I decided to go ahead.”

Puri insists that he never looks at the length of a role, as long as he is convinced that the role is written keeping him in mind. “It could be a day’s work or it could be a full-length role like the one in my next international project. It should be challenging and it should be meant for me.”

At the moment, Puri is all taken up with his fullfledged role in The 100 Foot Journey, in which he plays the lead opposite no less than the multi-award winning Dame Helen Mirren. Escaping the wrath of a marriage gone horribly wrong, the veteran actor is all set to head for the small French town of Albi for the shoot.

One doesn’t know how the distinguished British actress feels about working with one of our own, but we have a lot to be proud of. Moreover the film is being directed by the very prolific Lasse Hailstorm.

W

ith due respects to Irrfan Khan, Om Puri remains our most prolific and prominent international import from Indian cinema. Last week Om secretly flew to Thailand to play a judge in another international project entitled The Traffickers.

The film is directed by British cinematographer Larry Smith. Om was specially requested to do a day’s work and the film’s producers would not take no for an answer.

Says Om, “It was a sequence where two youngsters are on trial for drug trafficking. They wanted me to play the judge. It was just a day’s work and they were very sure that they wanted me for the role. This was the cinematographer’s first film as a director and I didn’t want to in-

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Hailstrom has to his credit such remarkable films as The Cider House Rules, An Unfinished Life and Safe Haven. “He has directed 35 films, most of them very successful. This is not a small film. As for Helen Mirren, she is legendary on the British stage and in cinema. I am very happy to be working with a co-star who can challenge the best out of me,” says Om with pride.

Om sheds light on his part, “I play a man who has lost his wife and property in the Mumbai riots. He leaves the country and lives in London for five years. Then he travels to other parts of Europe until he finally settles down in a small French town called Albi. That’s where we’re shooting the film.”

Helen and Om play owners of two rival restaurants across the road from one another in Albi.

Om is excited about playing the role of a restaurateur, “I’ve been fond of cooking from the time I was very young. I make the usual meals and all kinds of biryanis and kebabs.

Trust me, when I was offered the role they didn’t

know I could cook. But now I wonder if Helen Mirren can cook. If she can’t, I’d be happy to teach her some Indian dishes.”

Says Om, “The film gets its title from the 100 feet that separate Helen’s restaurant from mine.

We are actually shooting in Albi and I am very excited because I will be staying in my own rented apartment, doing my own cooking during the shooting. The change of country and climate would do me good.”

The 100 Foot Journey is not the first international film that Om will be shooting while staying in a rented apartment. “Whenever I’ve done international films, I’ve preferred to live in rented apartments rather than hotels. For this particular project, the producers gave me a choice of five apartments. I chose one that was in the countryside close to the location where we would be shooting.”

Om is very pleased by the team’s meticulous approach. “They’ve informed me that my name would come second in the credit titles after Helen Mirren. They are trying to get an equally formidable actress to play the other female lead. I am happy to be working in a film where my co-star is someone whose work I admire. I don’t get to do that too often in India.”

Looking back, Om feels he has been lucky with his international projects. “I’ve played the lead in international films like East Is East, My Son the Fanatic and West Is West. And even if I’ve not played the protagonist in some projects, my scenes have always been with the most important actors in the film. I had the pleasure and privilege of working with Ben Kingsley in Gandhi, Patrick Swayze in The City Of Joy, Steve Coogan in The Parole Officer, Tom Hanks in Charlie Wilson’s War, Jack Nicholson in Wolf, Val Kilmer in The Ghost & The Darkness and now Helen Mirren in The 100 Foot Journey. I don’t know what these great actors feel about working with me. But for me, working with them has been an honour, privilege and pleasure.”

B BUZZ

Saif Ali Khan laughs off the jinx tag

Saif Ali Khan was rather amused when a journalist recently told him that he had been tagged as a jinx for the new heroines he launched in his banner. Saif had earlier cast Giselle Monteiro as a parallel lead in Love Aaj Kal, after which he had launched Diana Penty in Cocktail.

The girls have not bagged any films thereafter.

Says Saif, “Some people love to jump to conclusions and tag others along. These heroines were cast because their personalities suited the role. Maybe they did not get the right directors like Imtiaz Ali and Homi Adjania to cast them again. When the right role comes along the directors will definitely take their call.”

Referring to the jinx tag, Saif laughs, “Bollywood is a large industry, there’s enough work here for everyone. While someone may call me a jinx, some others say that I am plain lucky for them

Anil Kapoor wants the youth to connect to his television series

Anil Kapoor is all excited about his forthcoming television series, ‘24’. The actor, who has already received accolades for his performance in the Hollywood series, is making sure that he leaves no stone unturned for the Indian version. Apart from ensuring that he looks his smartest best in the serial, Kapoor wants to ensure that the show gets the deserved following among the youth. For this, he plans to tour the whole country and interact with young audiences to convey the essence of the show. “I hope that many people watch the serial, especially the youth,” says Kapoor.

In this one hour crime thriller, Anil Kapoor plays the role of an anti terrorist unit chief named Jai Singh Rathod.

FACE TO FACE

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FACE TO FACE

After proving her mettle in films like Ladies Vs Ricky Bahl and Ishaqzaade, the vivacious Parineeti Chopra is back in the news for her bold and glamourous avatar in her latest film, Shuddh Desi Romance. In a candid conversation, the actress airs her views on modern-day romance and live-in relationships.

Your latest release Shuddh Desi Romance, deals with the subject of a live-in relationship in a small town of North India. Don’t you think the concept is rather far-fetched?

I don’t think so. In the film, I hail from a small town called Ambala, where live-in relationships are a reality. There are so many taboo subjects and situations that are quite normal in real life. I am not saying live-in relationships should become the norm. But they do exist. Youngsters are indulging in it. Gender equations have changed and Shuddh Desi Romance reflects that change.

What are your views on live-in relationships?

I have no problems about live-in relationships. For me the most important factor in a relationship is the person with whom I am in love with. It does not matter whether he is short, fat, tall or lean. He has to love me just as intensely as I love him. Onesided love is a big no for me. Also, I believe that there is very little difference between a live-in couple and a married couple, except for the fact that a married couple can have babies whenever they so desire. Everything else is the same.

How comfortable were you doing the cosy and intimate scenes with Sushant Singh Rajput in the film?

I treat a kissing and intimate scene the way I treat any other scene. It's a very clinical process on the set. Your full attention has to be on your expressions and body language in a scene when your director is shouting at you and you have to perform in front of your cast and crew. With Sushant,

I have no qualms about kissing on screen PARINEETI CHOPRA

I had a good time working with him, as both of us follow the same work pattern. For me what matters is the quality of work in my films. I have no qualms doing kissing or intimate scenes, when they are important for the storyline.

You seem to have gone for an image makeover in the film by going ultra glamorous for the role? Was it a deliberate decision?

It is not as if someone was holding a gun to my head and asking me to get glamorous. I merely wanted to find out how well I could fit into a glamorous image and this film seemed to be ideal for it. I decided that I would end up getting bored doing the same bindaas roles in film after film.

Is that the reason why you decided not to sign too many films after Ishaqzaade?

Post Ishaqzaade, I became very choosy about my roles and did not sign any films because I did not want to do similar roles. So I did not sign anything for the next eight months. Even my parents started asking me what I was up to. But I needed the time as the directors with whom I wanted to work were also busy. Finally I was offered the films that I was looking for.

Were you afraid of being typecast?

I am very particular that I do not want to be typecast. One of the reasons why I opted for Shuddh Desi Romance was the fact that the character was completely different from the chirpy, aggressive girl I played in Ladies Vs Ricky Bahl and Ishaqzaade. Even in my forthcoming film, Hasee Toh

“I have no problems about livein relationships.

For me, the most important factor in a relationship is the person with whom I am in love with.”

www.visionasia.co.nz | October 2013

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“If I can perform drunken, kissing scenes and lovemaking scenes why not an item number? It’s all about dancing and I love to dance.”

Phasee, people will see me in a very different avatar. On the other hand, Shaad Ali’s Kill Dil will see me going all glamourous once again. Then there is Habib Sir (Faizal)’s film with Aditya Roy Kapoor.

So I am very happy and comfortable in my own space.

So how do you take a call on choosing the right kind of roles?

I would say producer Aditya Chopra and director Maneesh Sharma are my sounding boards. They are the people who know what suits me the best though I am the one who takes the final call. I’m proud to say I’ve made a place for myself in the industry. I’ve just started and the roles of substance are coming my way. I want to do as much work as possible.

Are you open to doing item numbers on screen?

Why not? If I can perform drunken, kissing scenes and love-making scenes why not an item number? It’s all about dancing and I love to dance. I think its utter rubbish that item songs commodify women. If some people feel that way, then they should not watch films that address the question of sexuality.

Lastly, how do you feel about the constant comparisons between you and your cousin Priyanka?

I do find it irritating at times. Priyanka is senior to me and working in the industry for the last 12 years. I look up to her but I concentrate on myself. I want to do a better job than what I did yesterday. This year our films released on the same day and a lot was being written about it. Sometimes we have a hearty laugh over what is speculated about us.

By Subhash K Jha (with inputs from Srabanti Chakravarthy)

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“It is not as if someone was holding a gun on my head and asking me to get glamorous.”

Glitz & Glamour

Glitz Glamour Krrish 3 promotions on the sets of Jhalak Dikhlaa Jaa Hrithik Roshan and Priyanka Chopra were seen posing with celebrity judges Madhuri Dixit, Karan Johar and Remo Fernandes, on the eve of the grand finale of the dance reality show, ‘Jhalak Dikhlaa Jaa 6’. The dancing superstar was there with Priyanka, to promote his forthcoming superhero film, Krrish 3. Needless to add, Hrithik stole the thunder from everyone else, as he descended on the dance floor with Priyanka and performed to the beats of ‘Raghupati Raghav’, a number from the film.

Priyanka Chopra visits Andheri Cha Raja Priyanka Chopra was recently spotted seeking Lord Ganesha’s blessings at the suburban Andheri Cha Raja mandal, known to be one of the most famous Ganesh idols in Mumbai. The former Miss World was in a solemn mood as she offered prayers to the Lord and sought his blessings. Priyanka Chopra will next be seen in the superhero film Krrish 3.

Actress Raveena Tandon teamed up with PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) to launch its new dog adoption campaign, "Puppy Love: Adopt, Don't Buy", which urged people to adopt homeless dogs from the streets and shelters. Raveena, who has herself adopted five stray dogs, posed for PETA's ad campaign with two of them Raveena Tandon launches PETA's dog adoption campaign

Glitz & Glamour

Shazahnn Padamsee dazzles at Label Madame Fashion show The stunning Shazahnn Padamsee sizzled on the ramp in a sexy black dress at the autumn collection of the Label Madame Fashion Show. The model-actress was later joined by her celebrity parents, Alyque Padamsee and Sharon Prabhakar on the ramp.

Actors Arjun Kapoor and Jacqueline Fernandez recently unveiled the ‘Enchanted Valley Carnival 2013’, a spectacular music festival featuring hundreds of artists that is scheduled to be held at Aamby Valley in December. Both Arjun and Jacqueline seemed to be in their element and shared a great comfort level. Jacqueline was smartly dressed in a heart print polka dotted silk shirt and burgundy leather pants, while Arjun wore a white tee, jeans and a brown leather jacket.

Launch of ‘Enchanted Valley Carnival 2013’

New Exclusive gift collection from Sona Sansaar this Diwali

Launch of ‘The Lighthouse Project’ Actor and filmmaker Farhan Akhtar was recently seen at the launch of ‘The Lighthouse Project’, an initiative launched by social entrepreneur, Trishya Screwvala, daughter of Ronnie Screwvala. The project will team up with college students and working professionals to serve as mentors for children from under-resourced communities.

Give a token / layby on your favourite piece of jewellery for Dhan Teras now!

OPEN LATE FOR DHAN TERAS DC &hi CDK:B7:G

Tulja Centre 190 Stoddard Road, Mt Roskill , Ph: 09 629 3333 172 Great South Rd, Papatoetoe , Ph: 278 6000 www.facebook.com/SakhiNZ lll#hdcVhVchVVg#Xd#co

www.visionasia.co.nz | October 2013

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RECIPES

Butter Garlic Naan

Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 15 minutes Makes 6 naans.

A popular leavened bread of exquisite taste cooked in a tandoor. A tandoor is a clay oven which is known to have originated in Persia. The tradition carries on even today in modern day Iran and several North Indian homes. I have added some pounded mint leaves to the Naan dough to enhance the flavour and appearance of this bread. Instead of using a tandoor, these Naans have been cooked over gas on the sides of an inverted pressure cooker. You can even make them in a gas tandoor if you have one. The Naans are also smaller sized so that they can be cooked faster.

Ingredients To be ground into a coarse paste 1/4 cup garlic (lehsun) cloves 1 tsp cumin seeds (jeera) 2 green chillies, finely chopped 1 tbsp lemon juice 1 tsp sugar Other Ingredients 1 cup plain flour (maida) 1/2 tsp fresh yeast, crumbled 1/2 tsp sugar 1 tbsp oil 1/2 tsp salt Oil for greasing Butter for brushing

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Method 1. Dissolve the yeast and sugar in 2 tbsp of lukewarm water and leave aside for 10 minutes or until the yeast begins to ferment.

2. Combine all the ingredients including the ground paste in a bowl and knead into a soft dough, using enough water until it is smooth and elastic (approx. 5 to 7 minutes).

3. Cover the dough with a wet muslin cloth and keep aside till it doubles in volume (approx.15 to 20 minutes).

4. Press the dough lightly to remove the air.

5. Divide the dough into 6 equal portions and roll out each portion into a 100 mm. (4") diameter circle.

6. Grease a pressure cooker very lightly with oil.

Remove the lid from the pressure cooker and heat it upside down over an open flame.

7. Apply a little water on one side of each naan and stick the wet side of the naan around the inside of the pressure cooker.

8. Place the pressure cooker upside down directly on the flame and cook till both sides are golden brown. You can apply 3 to 4 naans at a time inside the walls of the pressure cooker.

9. Remove the naans brush with butter and serve hot.

RECIPES

Ingredients 1 bunch chopped fenugreek (methi) leaves 1/2 cup moong dal mangodi, crushed 1 tsp turmeric powder (haldi) 1/2 tsp cumin seeds (jeera) 2 tsp ginger-green chilli paste 1 tsp coriander (dhania) powder 1/2 cup milk 1/2 cup curds (dahi), beaten 1 tsp sugar 4 tbsp oil Salt to taste

Methi Mangodi

Method 1. Add salt and ½ teaspoon turmeric powder to the methi leaves and keep aside for 5 minutes. Squeeze out all the water and wash the methi leaves well. Keep aside.

2. Heat the oil in a pressure cooker and add the cumin seeds.

3. When the seeds crackle, add the ginger-green chilli paste and stir for a few seconds.

4. Add the mangodi and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes.

5. Add the methi and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes over a slow flame.

6. Add the coriander powder, milk, curds, sugar, ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder, salt and ½ cup of water and bring to a boil while stirring continuously.

7. Pressure cook for 1 to 2 whistles or until the mangodis are soft and cooked.

8. Serve hot.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 15 minutes Makes 6 naans.

Mangodis are sun-dried, grape-sized dumplings made from soaked and ground Moong Dal or sometimes from Urad Dal. Due to scarcity of vegetables, the ingenious Rajasthanis use different forms of pulses to whip up healthy and tasty meals.

Mangodis or Moong Dal Badis are often used to rustle up several tasty and mouth-watering recipes. Fenugreek tossed Mangodis is one such delightful recipe. Serve this subji with hot phulkas and a spicy mango pickle.

www.visionasia.co.nz | October 2013

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B BUZZ

Ranveer is excited about Ram Leela Ranveer Singh’s last film Lootera managed to garner critical acclaim, but the film did not manage to set the box office on fire. However the actor has no regrets and is now looking forward to his next release, Ram Leela. Ranveer is confident that it will make up for his last film.

At the recent first look launch of the film, Ranveer and Deepika gave the picture of being more than just co-stars, with the way they were getting cozy and whispering into each other’s ears. The first look itself showed some intensely passionate scenes between the two. Ranveer smiles when you mention this to him, “Well, it’s a great movie and my chemistry in the film with Deepika is fantastic. We look wonderful and even director Sanjay Leela Bhansali vouches for that. That’s all I can say at the moment.” Ram Leela is a love story set in the picturesque locales of Gujarat and is set for release on November 15.

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B BUZZ

Varun Dhawan’s gesture for his best friend A friend in need is a friend indeed. His entry into films and his success story hasn’t changed Varun Dhawan’s attitude towards his friends. The actor continues to go out of his way for his friends, despite his busy schedule. Besides shooting for his father’s film, Main Tera Hero and preparing for his next film, Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania, Varun is also working on another project these days.

Sources close to the actor reveal that Varun puts on his dancing shoes after pack-up and rehearses all night long for his upcoming friend’s wedding. Apparently, he has chosen songs from his first hit Student Of The Year to be performed at the wedding. Varun confirms, “Yes indeed, I am dancing at his wedding and am very excited. We have all been practicing every night for hours together and have absolutely no time to relax as I am also busy shooting in the day. But it’s going to be fun and he’s my best friend. I can’t let him down.”

STRAIGHT TALK

“I

”

“I am neither an icon nor a role model.

I am simply a very proud citizen of my country”

In a candid interview with Subhash K Jha, the ever charismatic Bachchan talks about the new season of KBC, his latest film Satyagraha and his views on the current social scenes and the increasing atrocities against women

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t is time we looked at women with respect and dignity AMITABH BACHCHAN

STRAIGHT TALK The new season of KBC has begun with a bang. How are you enjoying it?

That’s right. KBC has begun on a great new note. The format is the same -questions are asked and correct answers are being rewarded, but there are some very interesting cosmetic changes. The set is a stunningly new product, the winning amount has gone up to Rs 7 crores, the lifelines have been increased to 5, of which 4 can be used in a novel interesting manner. The participants are definitely enjoying it.

Bollywood is currently going through a very progressive phase, with some innovative stories and ideas. Which films have impressed you in recent times?

I agree that Indian cinema is going through a catharsis, opening up to experimentation and fresh talent. Films like Paan Singh Tomar, Vicky Donor, Kahaani, Gangs of Wasseypur, Lootera, Ranjhaana, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, D-Day, Madras Café and others, have been impressive in recent times. Along with this, is the re-emergence of popular cinema, creating revenue figures that were unheard of earlier. What a wonderful period we are all witnessing. All this can be attributed to a maturing audience.

Talking of your latest film Satyagraha, it addresses the need to clean our society of corruption. How far do you think cinema can be a tool of social reform?

Cinema is a powerful medium, it makes powerful impressions. Indian Cinema has always conformed to the practice of delivering poetic justice within three hours, which is the time span of the film. In our films, the wrong is invariably punished, evil is destroyed and culprits are brought to book. A film is the vision of its maker and if it also manages to create awareness, it is welcome and laudable. Whether a particular film is made with the sole intent of bringing social reform, is a question that needs to be put to the maker. There are many colleagues who have very strong beliefs on the content they associate themselves with, and pursue their activism through the films or art forms they produce or are a part of. They are brave and I applaud them. I am not so brave and do not possess such strong activist sensibilities.

In your earlier interviews you have stated that you are averse to the idea of getting into politics once again. Would you ever have a change of heart?

I will not ever change my stance about politics.

However, I shall not shy away from serving the country in any other way it wishes me to.

An imposter recently posted a fake video which showed you endorsing a recommendation for Narendra Modi as a prime ministerial candidate. How do you fight such duplicity?

As public figures, one must be prepared for

such occurrences. Once you understand that, it is a matter of either rebuking it or taking appropriate action. In this particular matter, it was the infringement of copyright and its misuse. I am not concerned about the reason or the purpose but I am against the manner of the defamatory misuse of such social media.

What are your views on the safety of women in this country? Do you feel that post the Nirbhaya case in Delhi and now the Mumbai gang-rape incident, laws pertaining to violence against women need to get more stringent?

The spontaneous public response on the streets of Delhi and in other parts of the country did cause the system to take note of and provide immediate action on the unfortunate Nirbhaya incident. Similarly the police were quick to apprehend the culprits in the recent Mumbai case.

Severe punishment is no doubt a deterrent but the legal system has its own procedural compulsions. But the question is whether all this can provide the much required safety for women in our country. This is only possible when there is change in society.

How do you think this can be brought about?

I think it is very important to inculcate morals and principles in youngsters from a very early age. It is also important to look at women with respect and dignity. Women are half the strength of a nation, they cannot be looked upon as mere objects of desire, and this is what the polity needs to be educated on. Educate the woman in a home and the entire family gets educated. Religion has given the female the honour of a ‘Devi’ (Goddess) in many powerful forms. It is time people understood that philosophy and conducted themselves accordingly.

There is an orthodox school of thought that advises women to exercise caution while travelling in public places?

Putting restrictions of any kind on women is not the solution. The women in our country need to be free of such apprehensions. They must have the confidence to move around without fear of any danger. The system shall always have its limitations, the police cannot be everywhere and the law shall take its course. It is the people who need to change their mind set. Society needs to take on the responsibility of the protector in such heinous crimes.

As an icon and a role model how important is it for you to maintain a decorous, upright and infallible image in public?

I am neither an icon nor a role model. I am simply a very proud citizen of my country and shall always endeavour to remain decorous and upright. I cannot say I am infallible, for we are all human and succumb to faults. But, if faulted, I shall follow what the constitution and the law of the land directs me to. www.visionasia.co.nz | October 2013

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FASHION

“IT IS IMPORTANT TO WEAR YOUR DESIGNER OUTFITS WITH AN ATTITUDE”

Karisma Kapoor

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B BUZZ

I AM MOST UNCOMFORTABLE One outfit WEARING that I will

never agree to wear is a lycra dress or anything in lycra. It’s a simple no-no. It’s the most hideous faux pas in fashion.

STYLE FOR ME is all about being classic and chic. I am very particular about the way I dress up because your personality is also reflected by your attire and the way you carry yourself.

If you are not comfor table about what you are wearing, it shows on your face and your gait. It is important that you wear your designer outfits with an attitude and that is entirely up to the person who wears them. If you do not have the attitude, you’d rather not wear outfits that you are not cut out for.

STYLE SHOULD NOT BE AT THE COST OF COMFORT

MY PERSONAL STYLE AND I think it was in HOW I DEVELOPED IT the 70s and 80s.

Those were the days when everyone was high on fashion and new fashion statements were

being made. My mother used to give me valuable tips and I inculcated them in my day-today life. Today we have a lot of designers, unlike that period, who are experimenting with new styles.

AN OUTFIT THAT IS A MUST IN MY WARDROBE

It is a pair of blue denims and white shirt. It can sum up for any occasion and is the most comfortable outfit. I can even live in blue jeans.

I always make it a point to have black dresses in my wardrobe for last minute parties. When I am flummoxed and don’t know what to wear, my black dress is of great help. I also keep a lovely white sari handy for a special occasion.

I think these are the two most essential outfits in the cupboard.

MY FAVOURITE PARTY WEAR

MY FAVOURITE STYLE ICONS They are Audrey Hepburn and the evergreen Gayatri Devi. They are classic and elegant no one can match up to them. From the younger generation I like Jennifer Aniston, Princess Rania of Jordan and Victoria Beckham.

I AM NOT TOO MUCH OF AN I believe that the lesser acACCESSORY PERSON

cessories you wear, the better you can carry yourself. It is important not to overdo things.

If you are wearing a neck piece, then you should avoid chunky earrings or a glitzy belt.

On the other hand, a simple stylish watch can work wonders for your outfit.

MY FAVOURITE BRAND AND I am a Gap DESIGNERS loyalist when

it comes to international designers brands. In India, I am all for Manish Malhotra. He’s the best designer we have today, though I do not deny that all young Indian designers are talented.

www.visionasia.co.nz | October 2013

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FAQ

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B BUZZ

Katrina keeps tabs on Deepika

With her gorgeous looks, her ever-increasing popularity and her recent spate of successes, Deepika Padukone has no doubt become the envy of all her contemporaries in B-town. But one actress who has been keeping a close tab on Deepika’s career is Katrina Kaif. Apparently, Katrina simply cannot get over her obsession with her current beau’s ex-girlfriend. Sources reveal that Katrina is trying her level best to score over Deepika by getting a better deal in endorsements, films and roles. The source adds that Kat is determined to grab all the brands coming Deepika’s way by offering a lower price. The latest in the game of one-upmanship is that Katrina has roped in her arch rival’s make-up artist, Mira Parmar for all her films including Dhoom 3 and Bang Bang. Reportedly Mira first impressed Katrina Kaif when she dressed her up for her sister’s recent London wedding. This source reveals that Katrina has now approached Mira to work for her exclusively. “Now we will have to see what Mira has to say about this. Mira is being wooed by a lot of heroines in the industry ever since Deepika has had a successful run in the industry but it is Katrina who has been pursuing her aggressively.”

“I believe in living for the moment”

20-20

The Interim Joint CEO and Director of Business Development - Pacific Media Network as also a Strategic Consultant with Radio Tarana, Krishna Sharma is a successful marketing professional with over 21 years of media marketing and sales experience, of which the last 10 years have been in NZ media companies.

1. Full Name Krishna Sharma

2. Hobbies / passions?

Passionate about my work; hobbies include reading, music and travelling

3. What is your success mantra?

Man’s success is in his own hands so don’t look for excuses

4. Who or what is your inspiration?

Live life for the moment………… Zingadi Na mile dobara…..

5. Your most memorable moment: The day when my wife Shyama agreed to be my life-long companion

6. How important is it to fail before you succeed.

I strongly believe in the proverb, ‘Learning from success is important but learning from failure is vital to succeeding’.

7. Name three important things in your life you can’t live without: My family, friends and my work

8. What do you value most in life?

Don't cry because it is over. Smile because it happened.

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9.Favourite movie & star Pyaasa, Kagaz Ke Phool; actor Gurudutt 10. Favourite food Vada pav and dal-rice

11.Favourite holiday destination (short & long) Taupo; any Pacific Island 12. Favourite restaurant Delhi Darbar, Mumbai

13. Favourite sport & player Cricket; Sachin Tendulkar

14. What do you love or admire in New Zealand?

Cultural diversity, humanity and lifestyle

15. What outdoor activities do you like / how do you relax?

Meditation, cooking or watching movies and partying with friends over weekends or just sleeping and relaxing!

16. The craziest things you’ve ever done I would say it was when 14 of my best friends celebrated my graduation on a pitch dark midnight dancing without our clothes at Murud Janjeera beach (165 kms from Mum-

bai in Raigad district, Maharashtra) after which we later drove our cars in reverse gear for almost 3 km!

17. You wouldn’t be caught dead: Getting geared up to do sky diving or bungy jumping

18. If your house was on fire and you could only grab three things what would they be?

Me, my wife and my son

19. What do you think is the secret to a good life?

Some people dream of great accomplishments, while others stay awake and do them 20.Name one achievement that you are proud of Undoubtedly being able to learn from my mistakes-there is no better way to get experience than from your own mistakes.`