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Speaking Frankly
Deepika Padukone has had an extremely successful year, leaving behind all her contemporaries to become the numero uno actress of Bollywood in 2013. She has had four consecutive hits in Race 2, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Chennai Express and most recently Ram Leela, all movies exceeding expectations and entering the exclusive 100 crore club. In a candid interview with Vision Asia, the charming actress talks of the year she’s had, her upcoming movies, and future plans. Vision Asia has some wonderful viewing for the New Year! New dailies include Main Na Bhoolungi and Ek Nayi Pehchaan on Sony, Rang Rasiya and Beintihaa on Colors and Doli Armaano Ki on Zee TV. A new season of India’s Got Talent also begins on Colors.
CREDITS Editor Sandra Noronha Associate Editor Manishaa Rajender Mandlecha Writers Subhash Jha, Tarla Dalal, Manishaa Rajender Mandlecha Jasbir Kaur Designer Dharmendra Jangid Images Image Clicker CONTACT US Vision Asia NZ Ltd 44 Roma Road, Mount Roskill Auckland 1041, New Zealand
Movie premiere to watch out for in January is Besharam. New Year super hit movies include Talaash, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Aashiqui 2 Shuddh Desi Romance, Rowdy Rathore, Bajate Raho, Shanghai, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, Rang De Basanti, Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai Dobara. Classics to watch out for – Teesri Manzil, Kashmir Ki Kali, Noorie, Mashaal, Bobby, Aradhana.
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January premiere on PTC Punjabi is Best of Luck. Other hits include Jatt & Juliet 2, Jatt Airways, Carry on Jatta.
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The January edition of Vision Asia and the accompanying channel listings have been printed early due to the holiday season. Channel listings are subject to change – please refer to the Electronic Programme Guide or the Vision Asia website for updates.
CONTENTS
10 COVER STORY
“I feel that all this is far too good to be true” Deepika Padukone
8
QUICK UPDATES A peek into B-town’s latest happenings
20
Interview
22
TRAVEL
36
GLITZ & GLAMOUR
42
FASHION
Sunny Deol Candid Confessions
Exploring Coastal Croatia
What are Bollywood celebs upto?
Arjun RampalOriginality is Fashion
SLUG
4 January 2014 | www.visionasia.co.nz
B-BUZZ
Priyanka Chopra has a new responsibility on hand Priyanka Chopra who has become the new face of the international clothing chain, Guess, says that the image of the global girl has undergone a great change in recent times. “She is no longer glamorous but a girl next door like me,” says Priyanka. The actress, who has also been championing for the cause of women feels that women continue to face harassment in many forms, despite doing well on the global front. “I particularly feel for the women of our country. The upbringing of girls is not the same. They are not provided with good education or the same treatment as the boys. Mothers should start teaching their sons to respect their sisters and wife. The system will undergo a change only when men start respecting women.” Priyanka admits that she feels all the more responsible now that she is India’s face on the global map. “When I became Miss World, my entire career started from here. I felt that I should set an example for young girls out here and put my country on the global map. I am proud to be Indian and I wear India on my heart.”
Javed Jaffery’s seven whacky avatars Javed Jaffrey, who is known for his brilliant comic timing in films, will be seen in seven different avatars in his forthcoming film, Mr. Joe B. Carvalho. The actor whose character name is Carlos in the film, will be seen in a peculiar garb every time he appears on screen. Some of his looks in the film are that of an African-American man, a blonde woman, a hermit and even a Maharashtrian woman. We are told that the actor had to sit for almost 4-5 hours only for his make-up, to make his characters look as authentic as possible. According to the director, Samir Tewari, Javed’s characters are a treat to watch in the film. “When we shot the Maharashtrian killer maid look, Javed-Sir spoke to everyone on the set in Marathi in a scary deep baritone, even when the camera was off, which was quite hilarious. It was a pleasure directing him.” www.visionasia.co.nz | January 2014
5
SLUG
6 January 2014 | www.visionasia.co.nz
News Express
“Farhan took my breath away in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. I am really looking forward to working with him.”
Will Dev Benegal’s
Bombay Samurai work wonders
for Kareena’s career?
With her innovative pairing with the very talented Farhan Akhtar in Dev Benegal’s Bombay Samurai, Kareena Kapoor Khan is likely to attain renewed heights of success, says Subhash K Jha.
The gorgeous Kareena Kapoor Khan’s career seems to be heading to an exciting new level. Phase two in Kareena’s career begins now. Post-marriage she seemed to flounder in her choices with her half-hearted crusader’s role in Prakash Jha’s Satyagraha and the totally inane social activist’s role in Gori Tere Pyaar Mein. With Dev Benegal’s film titled Bombay Samurai, Kareena is likely to get her postmarriage formula right. According to sources, the film is, “a crazy, zany and rollicking roller coaster ride with amazing twists and turns. There are 7-8 pivotal characters but Kareena and Farhan preside over the show. They play a couple that has never been witnessed on screen before. They are whacky and unpredictable.
The two actors will have a ball playing their outgoing zestful characters.” A filmmaker who has been lamenting Kareena’s recent choice of roles says, “It’s good she’s working with a man like Farhan Akhtar after doing two films with a young lad like Imran Khan. When the pair obviously didn’t work in Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu, why did Karan Johar cast them together in Gori Tere Pyaar Mein? Besides, both films had dialogues justifying their age difference! Why cast them together when you know the hero looks younger than the leading lady?” Apparently the Farhan-Kareena pairing has been waiting to happen for some time now. Besides, both Kareena and Farhan were keen to work with one another. Says Farhan,
“I’ve seen Kareena’s work. She is consistently excellent. I have been looking forward to working with her. Dev’s film gives us a chance to try something different.” Kareena expresses the highest admiration for Farhan, “I admire Farhan for being multitalented. Which other director has done so well as an actor? Farhan took my breath away in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. I am really looking forward to working with him.” The Farhan-Kareena film starts after Kareena’s annual holiday in Switzerland in December. Incidentally, she unfailingly goes on this annual Christmas-New Year holiday with Saif. “It’s an annual ritual that the whole knows about,” laughs Kareena.
www.visionasia.co.nz | January 2014
7
Quick Updates
S
uperstar Amitabh Bachchan will be seen in an interesting special appearance in Sanjay Dutt Productions’ Hasmukh Pighal Gaya. The Big B is said to have performed to the iconic Raj Kapoor song ‘Kisiki Muskuraahton Pe Ho Nisaar’ from the film Anari. There is a situation in the film where the hero of the film sings a song and Bachchan makes an entry into the song. 8 January 2014 | www.visionasia.co.nz
S
unny Deol has decided to take over the reins of his ambitious project, Ghayal Returns, which has changed hands several times. The film will mark the actor’s return to direction after a gap of 14 yrs. His last directorial venture was Dillagi. Ghayal Returns is the second part of the Rajkumar Santoshi directed blockbuster Ghayal (1990). The actor plans to redefine the action genre in Bollywood with the film, which will also be produced under his home banner, Vijeta Films.
H
is last film Besharam may have tanked at the box-office but Ranbir Kapoor is currently said to be the most sought after star in the endorsement market. A recent news report suggests that Ranbir has been offered a whopping Rs 12 crores for being the face of a biscuit brand. Apparently, the brand managers felt that Ranbir had the endearing persona and the mischievousness that was required for the campaign and agreed to pay him the asked for remuneration.
Quick Updates
T
he King Khan’s popularity is only soaring with each passing year. The latest is that his Twitter fan following has touched a new benchmark of over six million followers. With this new development, SRK has left his contemporaries Salman Khan (5,636,870) and Aamir Khan (5,105,283) behind on the microblogging site. The Chennai Express star, who is followed by celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan, Sachin Tendulkar, Priyanka Chopra, Karan Johar and others, is one of the most frequent users of the popular social networking site. Shah Rukh, who joined Twitter in 2010, has made 6,414 tweets so far.
A
P
A
I
ctor Aamir Khan will be seen in a sensational tap dance in Dhoom 3. The actor will be seen sporting his now famous bowler hat tapping his boots, even as the famous Dhoom 3 guitar riff plays in the backdrop. Aamir got his lessons in tap dancing from Australian choreographer and renowned dancer, Dein Perry. He specially flew down to Australia to learn the ‘high on energy’ tap dance from Dein who had choreographed the Sydney Olympics opening act and ‘Happy Feet 2’.
akistani actor-singer Ali Zafar, who was last seen in Chashme Baddoor, will be next seen in Kill Dil, in the role of a gun-toting action hero. Ali’s co-star in the film is Parineeti Chopra. The actor also has another film, Total Siyappa, which was earlier titled, Aman Ki Asha. In the film, the actor plays the role of a Pakistani boy in love with an Indian girl. The film stars Yami Gautam in the female lead. It is an official remake of a Spanish film, Only Human, which revolves around a Jewish girl and a Palestinian boy.
J
uhi Chawla is all set to make her Hollywood debut with Oscar winning director, Lasse Hallstrom’s The Hundred Foot Journey. Produced by Steven Spielberg, Oprah Winfrey and Juliet Blake, the film is based on Richard C Morais’ bestselling novel and stars Helen Mirren, Om Puri and Juhi Chawla in the lead. Juhi plays Om Puri’s wife in the film. The film revolves around an immigrant Indian family who, following a mishap, settle down in a village in the south of France. They open an Indian restaurant across the street from a Michelin-starred French restaurant run by Madame Mallory, played by Helen Mirren.
ctress Genelia D’Souza who was last seen with husband Riteish Deshmukh in the film, Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya, will be seen in a cameo in Salman Khan’s forthcoming film Jai Ho. Reports suggest that Genelia has been signed to play the role of Salman Khan’s sister in the film. Jai Ho, which is a remake of the South hit Stalin, is directed by Sohail Khan and stars Salman, Tabu, Sana Khan, Ashmit Patel and Sunil Shetty, among others.
f reports are to be believed, Kareena Kapoor is all set to star in the next installment of Singham opposite Ajay Devgn. The news goes that director Rohit Shetty, who has worked with Kareena in Golmaal Returns and Golmaal 3, offered Singham- 2 to Kareena even before his Chennai Express hit the theatres. It may be recalled that the Ajay Devgn- Kajal Aggarwal starrer, Singham, became a blockbuster at the box-office when it was released two years back. www.visionasia.co.nz | January 2014
9
Cover Story
The
success and all the accolades haven’t sunk in yet
10 January 2014 | www.visionasia.co.nz
Cover Story
She has left all her contemporaries behind to become the numero uno actress of Bollywood in 2013. The year has been very eventful for the very talented and charming Deepika Padukone, who has scaled the success charts with four consecutive hits in Race 2, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Chennai Express and Ram Leela. The new box-office Queen bee opens her heart in a candid interview with Subhash K Jha.
How does it feel to be called a Rs. 600-crore heroine? (Smiles) How am I supposed to feel? I am absolutely elated but then there are times when I feel that all this is far too good to be true. To be honest, it feels a bit surreal when people say these things about me. It’s like they’re talking about someone else. I can’t seem to get a perspective on the situation. Are you still looking at it as a wonderful dream? The success and all the accolades haven’t sunk in yet. So much has happened this year. There were four films and the audiences reacted positively to all of them. If anything, I wish these four films hadn’t come in such quick succession. They came in a tumble. Which among the four films would you say is your personal favourite- Race 2, Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani, Chennai Express or Ram Leela? I’ve given my blood, sweat and tears to each one of the roles. So I can’t play favourites. I did all the four films with the same passion, but I was more surprised by the kind of response that Ram Leela got. Were you surprised by the very encouraging response for Ram Leela? Ram Leela happened quite suddenly to me. I was game for it because it offered me this great opportunity to work with Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Doing the film meant a lot of sacrifices. I was working at an insane pace to an extent where I was exhausted and numbed by the film. We got a lot more from Ram Leela than we had expected. It was overwhelming. Ram Leela also took you to the Marrakesh film festival, putting the film in the international league? This was my first film festival. I couldn’t have gone to an international film festival with any of my other films. From what I gather the international audiences like Indian cinema for its scale, opulence, colours, songs and dances. For me this was the right film to make my debut at an international film festival.
“For me honesty is integral in a relationship if I choose to associate with anyone”
You shared an amazing chemistry with your co-star Ranveer Singh in the film. Did the two of you hit it off from the beginning? Ranveer was already shooting when I came on the sets. I have known him for a year now. Ranveer is the kind who makes you feel that he has known you for a long time. He is very friendly whereas I am an introvert and need time before I get to know people. If everyone has approved of our chemistry, it indicates that the team effort has succeeded. The credit does not go to him or me alone.
www.visionasia.co.nz | January 2014 11
Cover Story
Was it very tough working with Sanjay Leela Bhansali? The first scene that I shot for the film was the toughest one and it came to me minutes before the shooting. I had to memorize two pages of dialogues and the lines changed three times, even when I was sitting in my make-up chair. It seemed a bit difficult since I always prepare my lines in advance. Before I knew it, Sanjay had already set up the camera to capture the close-up shots. I was almost on the verge of tears. Nevertheless, I went through it. Right now I can laugh about it but at that time it was not funny at all.
Sanjay Leela Bhansali is known to be a very demanding director in terms of the performances he expects from his actors. It is no doubt difficult to live up Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s expectations. I rehearsed round the clock for my dances in the film but Sanjay would look for a twist of the wrist or a glide of the hand for a more elegant look. Having said that, it is only when you have a director like SLB that you realize there is always room to improve your performance. When people say Sanjay is a hard taskmaster they mean he sees beyond what you and I can see. He is nearer to perfection than we are. Were there occasions when you felt pressurized about living up to Bhansali’s expectations? Sanjay is not the kind of director who pressurizes his actors. I was nervous because I did not want to let him down. Besides, he had given my character the name of his mother Leela. Everyone knows how much SLB loves his mother, which gave me an added sense of responsibility. I am glad I lived up to the name of my character. In fact after the shooting Sanjay came and hugged me. That in itself was a huge compliment. Do you agree that you have evolved tremendously as an actor? How would you rate your own performance in Ram Leela? It may sound pompous if I make a comment about my acting skills. As for evaluating my performance, it is difficult to react to your own performance when you are so closely involved with a film. But I can definitely feel the difference when I see myself today.
“Ranveer is the kind who makes you feel that he has known you for a long time. He is very friendly whereas I am an introvert”
12 January 2014 | www.visionasia.co.nz
Why do you always try to be politically correct when you make a statement? More than being politically correct, I think it’s important to be sensitive to the feelings of the people around you. I don’t want to walk on a set tomorrow where someone has read my comment and feels hurt. The fact cannot be denied that no actress since Hema Malini has had so many backto-back hits. Is there an understandable fear that this year may not come back again? Hema-ji is truly remarkable. She was in an altogether different league. As for this phase, I am aware that it won’t come back again. As an actor it’s not in my power to bring back that kind of success in 2014 or 2015. When I sign a film, I don’t think of how successful it would be. I do the projects that I feel connected to. Some work and some don’t. My films in 2013 did exceedingly well but success depends on so many factors, it is not merely in the hands of the actors.
Cover Story
“I signed Finding Fanny Fernandes, because I really like Homi Adajania. I know what Cocktail did to me as a person and actress”
So are you prepared for a feeling of downslide? Well, there are bound to be failures. I make mistakes in selecting roles too. Everyone makes mistakes but I’ll continue to rely on my instincts. Now that you have identified the kind of films you’d like to associate with, how are you planning to make the choices about your future projects? I know that people have begun to believe that I’m choosing my projects more carefully. Some others have even concluded that I’ll now be concentrating only on heroine-oriented roles. The course of my last few films wasn’t planned by me. They simply happened. I don’t really think it pays to exercise caution in choosing roles. Do you consult anyone else while choosing roles? I do bounce off my ideas with people close to me but finally I choose scripts on my own. My decisions, good or bad, have always been my own. Would Finding Fanny Fernandes be a fine follow-up to 2013’s fabulous four? You know, people think I’ve made this great strategic move by doing a film in English, alternate cinema and all that. But I am not playing chess and there are no calculated moves. The director Homi Adjania had told me about the Fanny film during the making of Cocktail and it stayed with me. It was during the promotion of Cocktail that I gave my nod. As soon as I found a 30-day window, Finding Fanny Fernandes happened. I signed the film because I really like Homi. I know what Cocktail did to me as a person and actress. Dimple Kapadia recently revealed that she finds you so gorgeous that she can’t take her eyes off you? Can you imagine Dimple saying that? She is probably not aware of the fact that during the shooting of Finding Fanny Fernandes, there were times when I caught myself staring at her.
For me she is not just about physical beauty. It’s her entire persona. Besides, she has a great sense of humour. She is so evolved as a person and someone I can truly identify with. Is there anyone you dislike in the industry? Actually I have no dislikes. It is such a waste of precious energy to dislike anyone. I’d rather use my energy to build bridges than demolish them.
Apart from that there is nothing between us. I am single and far too busy to commit myself to any relationship. As far as love is concerned, for me it’s something traditional as I have grown up in that kind of an atmosphere. In my family, all relationships are based on the foundation of honesty. For me honesty is integral in a relationship if I choose to associate with anyone.
Your off screen chemistry with Ranveer is being spoken of a lot lately. How do you react to it? And what does love mean to you now? I have always maintained that we are friends and I like hanging out with Ranveer off screen. www.visionasia.co.nz | January 2014 13
Cover Story
Tracing the success story of
Bollywood’s new dream girl
With four back-toback hits to her credit, the year 2013 has been a rocking one for Deepika Padukone. The actress, who has beaten all her contemporaries in the race to become the number one actress in Bollywood, is currently on the wish-list of every big filmmaker in B-town.
The early years Hailing from a sports family, Deepika has seen success from close quarters when her father, Prakash Padukone, won several medals as the ace badminton player of the country. Born in Copenhagen and raised in Bangalore, Deepika was educated at Bangalore’s Sophia High School, and completed her pre-university education at Mount Carmel College. She began her career as a teenage badminton player in national level championships. She also played baseball in a few state level tournaments. Her foray into modeling While she had a great affinity for sports, Deepika was introduced to the world of modeling from a very early age. She worked as a child model, appearing in a couple of ad campaigns at the age of eight. As she grew up, she began to take a keen interest in modeling, even as she enrolled at the Indira Gandhi National Open University for a Bachelor of Arts in sociology. However, she later dropped out of college in order to become a full-fledged model. Deepika’s first major stint was the Liril TV commercial, which got her recognition. Later she made a debut in the Lakme Fashion Week for designer Suneet Varma, and won the ‘Model of the Year’ at the Kingfisher Fashion Awards. 14 January 2014 | www.visionasia.co.nz
Cover Story
Debut in films Deepika decided to relocate to Mumbai at the age of 21, in order to pursue her modeling career. At this juncture, she accepted an offer to feature in a music video for Himesh Reshammiya’s song Naam Hai Tera. Soon after choreographer turned director Farah Khan spotted her in the video and decided to sign her opposite Shah Rukh Khan for her film, Happy New Year. However, the film was indefinitely delayed. In 2006, Deepika made her film debut with a Kannada film Aishwarya, where she played the role of an assertive and fun-loving girl. The romantic comedy proved to be a major commercial success.
couple parted ways. The actress commented in an interview that she was angry and felt ‘betrayed”. Later Deepika was rumoured to have moved on with Siddharth Mallya, the scion of Kingfisher. She also went on to become the brand ambassador of Kingfisher Bangalore IPL team. However she denied the relationship. Deepika and Ranbir were back in the news once again when she signed Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani with him, but she put to rest all rumours by stating that they were nothing more than good friends. Recently, she was reportedly dating her Ram-Leela co-star Ranveer Singh. The two were spotted partying in Dubai. It was reported that Ranveer went all the way to meet the actress when she was shooting for Chennai Express.
Her big Bollywood launch By the end of 2006, Farah Khan decided to shelve Happy New Year and confirmed Deepika for the reincarnation melodrama Om Shanti Om (2007). Deepika, who played a double role in the film opposite the King Khan, managed to pull off both the roles with panache. Om Shanti Om went on to become a box office hit and Deepika was an overnight sensation. Her tall lithe frame, the dimpled smile and twinkling eyes took Bollywood by storm. The subsequent highs and lows Her next two films Bachna Ae Haseeno (2008) and Chandni Chowk To China (2009) were major disasters. She was almost written off, when Imtiaz Ali’s Love Aaj Kal (2009) opposite Saif Ali Khan, proved to be one of the biggest hits of 2009. But Deepika’s journey was not a smooth one. In 2010, Deepika had five releases namely Karthik Calling Karthik, Housefull, Lafangey Parindey, Break Ke Baad and Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Se, all of which proved to be box-office duds, with the sole exception of Housefull. In 2011, Deepika made a special appearance in a raunchy title track for Rohan Sippy’s Dum Maaro Dum, which made headlines. That was followed by another disastrous film, Aarakshan (2011), which failed to click despite the star presence of Amitabh Bachchan, Saif Ali Khan and Manoj Bajpai. Then came the comedy-drama Desi Boyz, but the role failed to make any impact on her career. Her career defining film and return to success The turning point in Deepika’s career came with Homi Adjania’s Cocktail (2012) where she was part of a love triangle with Saif Ali Khan and Diana Penty. The film earned her commercial and critical acclaim. Her father Prakash Padukone was so impressed by her performance in the film that he gifted her one of the awards he had won in badminton. That was followed by a slew of hits in 2013 that began with Race 2 opposite Saif Ali
Philanthropic work Deepika participated in the World 10K Bangalore marathon, which raised INR13.1 million in support of 81 NGOs. She also adopted the Maharashtra village of Ambegaon as part of NDTV’s Greenathon Campaign, to provide the village with a regular supply of electricity. Deepika has been involved with the Olympic Gold Quest team, established by her father and billiards player Geet Sethi, besides several other sports players, to support Indian athletes at the Olympic Games. Among Deepika’s other initiatives is the line of clothing for women that she launched in association with the retail chain Van Heusen.
Khan followed by Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani opposite Ranbir Kapoor, Chennai Express with Shah Rukh Khan and Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela opposite Ranveer Singh. The actress made a grand entry in the 100 crore club even as filmmakers began to look at her for her newfound potential. Today, trade experts believe that she is a safe bet at the ticket windows. The actress is now looking forward to 2014 with a promising line-up of films starting with Homi Adajania’s Finding Fanny Fernandes, Farah Khan’s Happy New Year and a Tamil film Kochadaiyaan opposite none other than the South superstar Rajnikant. Love Life It was during the filming of Bachna Ae Haseeno in 2008 that Deepika and Ranbir Kapoor came close to each other. The two were open about their relationship and Deepika even got Ranbir’s initials tattooed on the nape of her neck. However two years later the
Endorsements The actress has been endorsing several brands and is said to be the highest paid actress in the endorsement deal circuit. There have been reports that her deal with Garnier is worth 60 million, a record breaking remuneration for any Indian actress. The actress reveals that she should be able to connect with a particular brand before endorsing it. She also has brands like Nescafe, Tissot, and Sony Cyber Shot, Wrigleys Orbit, Maybelline and Pepsi to her name.
“As an actor it’s not in my power to bring back the same kind of success in 2014 or 2015” www.visionasia.co.nz | January 2014 15
Feature
The compelling ten of
2013
While romance ruled at the box-office in the year 2013 for the commercially viable films, there were also a few critically acclaimed films that left the audiences stunned. In-house columnist and reviewer, Subhash K Jha picks up 10 of the best films in the year that touched his heart.
Bhaag Milkha Bhaag As Farhan Akhtar ran for his life, we were left breathless. This actor didn’t just prepare for his real-life part of the Olympian sprinter Milkha Singh; he entered Milkha’s soul to own the runner’s momentous life. Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s bio-pic immortalized Milkha in ways that most sports persons in our country can only dream of. If only every Milkha got a Mehra.
Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram Leela Fabulous, flamboyant and exceedingly sensual, this was Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s raunchy, intensely passionate and playful take on Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet. Released in mid-November this intense excursion into the heartland of passion and romance had the nation swooning in delight. This was Deepika Padukone’s fourth hit this year, and by far the choicest selection of the quartet. The film’s operatic tone and musical interpretation brought Bhansali back in the limelight after three failed films. Ram Leela made the other romantic films of Bollywood of 2013 look like pulp fiction. 16 January 2014 | www.visionasia.co.nz
Feature
Bombay Talkies Producers Viacom 18’s four-story deep and sublime venture was a unique feat in itself. Each one of the four stories directed by Karan Johar, Dibakar Bannerjee, Zoya Akhtar and Anurag Kashyap, was a compelling take on life. It was hard to play favourites here. Needless to add, the quartet of directors exuded excellence. Johar’s coming-out-of-the-closet saga was the most surprising of the fabulous foursome.
Shahid Hansal Mehta’s biopic on real-life TADA-detainee-turned-TADA-lawyer Shahid Azmi, was brutally direct and honest, real and yet so cinematic, fragile and yet so powerful, that it created an impact far beyond its playing-time on screen. As the slain lawyer who would not cow down under political and communal pressure, Raj Kumar Yadav was compelling and credible. Riveting from the first frame to the last, the film finally gave the talented Mehta the recognition he deserved.
Raanjhanaa Aanand Rai’s Varanasi-based love story was volatile, vibrant, brazen and brilliant. The film captured the essence of a mismatched chalk-and-cheese alliance through vivacious vignettes from the lead pair Dhanush and Sonam Kapoor’s lives, as they sang their way through some of A R Rahman’s finest songs in recent times. The film also marked the coming of age of Sonam Kapoor as an actress of substance.
The Lunchbox 2013 will also be remembered for giving us a film about two lovers who never meet, but touch each other’s hearts through the letters that they write to one another in a khaane ka dabba. Now, who writes letters in this era of virtual contact?! That’s a question Batra’s elegiac lyrical film never allows us to ask. Irrfan as a widower and Nimrat Kaur as a neglected housewife seemed destined to meet. That they don’t, is the ironic twist in this delicate tale of love in the bustle of Mumbai. Delicately fragrant, the aromas from this delectable lunchbox pervaded every part of the world. This is probably the most celebrated Indian film since Satyajit Ray’s Pather Panchali and deservedly so. www.visionasia.co.nz | January 2014 17
Feature
Jolly LLB This sleeper success of the year directed by the very astute Subhash Kapoor of Phas Gaya Re Obama fame was a hard hitting satire on the loopholes in the country’s legal system. The film hit where it hurt the most. Funny and moving at times, Kapoor made sure that the filmy courtroom would never be perceived in the same way again. Also have we seen a more entertaining judge than Saurabh Shukla?
Ship of Theseus The remarkable factor about the films in 2013 was their versatility and the makers’ mastery over the language of cinema. This one saw the debut of director Anand Gandhi with a three-part film that pleaded for a place among the greatest work of cinematic art in the history of our cinema. Ship Of Theseus fell short of being a flawless masterpiece, as it could not bring the troubled, tormented and restless protagonists’ lives from the three stories to any conclusive closure. Gandhi’s film was more about the search than the destination. Life’s like that.
Aashiqui 2 And a star was born!!! Shraddha Kapoor as a singer more talented than her mentor-lover, reminded us of Jaya Bhaduri in Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s Abhimaan. Mohit Suri’s new take on the age-old exposition on the male ego in the entertainment industry, was dotted with emotional moments. While Shraddha anchored the emotional drama, Aditya Roy Kapoor as the drunken superstar stumbled all over. The lead pair’s chemistry however, was palpable on screen. It would be interesting to see if rumors of a real-life romance are true.
B.A Pass This one could be called the dark horse of the year. Director-cinematographer Ajay Bahl’s debut film visited the dark sleazy underbelly of Delhi, where bored housewives make out with virgin boys. Detailing the voyage into one such house (Shilpa Shukla) and the protagonist’s toy boy (newcomer Shadab Kamal), the film was a nifty slice of noire cinema. Original and sexually unabashed, this film could be compared to B R Ishaara’s Chetna that released 45 years ago. 18 January 2014 | www.visionasia.co.nz
B-BUZZ
The Mumbai police are impressed with Akshay Kumar Guess who is raving about Akshay Kumar these days? While his co-stars and directors have often complimented Akshay Kumar for his amazing fitness, the action King has got a new following among the Mumbai police force. The top brass of the force and trainee IPS officers, recently visited Akshay’s unique gym where he demonstrated some of his innovative techniques for building flexibility without the help of weights. Moreover Akshay has taken on the onus of training the skilled Quick Response commandos in the force, to sharpen their martial art skills in order to help them in close encounter operations. The top officers in the force are mighty impressed with the 45-year old actor’s fitness and flexibility levels.
Saif Ali Khan is in love with the Swiss Alps It is holiday time for Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan and their all-time favourite destination is the Swiss Alps. Every year around this time, the two take off on their annual holiday to the snow-capped sanctuary of Gstaad. Saif says that the Swiss Alps reminds him of the fairy tale villages. “I shot my first film there and it holds fond memories for me. I go there because I feel it’s like a health spa. Kareena loves going there too and we spend most of our holidays there. The best time to be there is during the New Year.” The actor reveals that he and Kareena love going out for long walks during their stay there. “There’s no disturbance and we can be free from all the hassles. It’s like a second home to us. I also get to read a lot. I love reading books and don’t get much time to read them when I am caught up with work. We also have a lot of friends whom we meet for dinners. We bond a lot with our friends there,” he adds. www.visionasia.co.nz | January 2014 19
INTERVIEW
Established
actresses
down
have turned me
“I am comfortable working with new heroines, like Urvashi Rautela. These girls do not ration dates and I don’t have to deal with my heroine’s tantrums”
20 January 2014 | www.visionasia.co.nz
In a candid interview with Subhash K. Jha, Sunny Deol spills the beans about why he prefers to work with rank newcomers half his age, instead of established actresses. He also voices his disapproval on the kind of films that are being made today.
INTERVIEW
Now that Anil Sharma’s Singh Saab the Great has opened to encouraging reports, Sunny Deol who plays the angry Sardar for the sixth time in his career, is in no mood to mince words about way the film industry functions these days. Sighs Sunny, “About time a film of mine was wellreceived. I am tired of the long non-happening phase. Unfortunately I haven’t had too many releases lately. There are some of my films that are on hold. Hopefully they’ll be released soon.”
a long time that we have witnessed the loving relationship between a husband and wife or a brother doting on his little sister. For some reason, the concept of family values has gone missing in our films.” Sunny is of the opinion that modern-day directors have lost touch with Indian values. “They are far too urbanized and have no concern for family values in films. Unko pataa
When you remind Sunny that times have changed and real-life couples are no longer content looking innocently into one another’s eyes, he retorts, “You’re talking about a small fraction of people in high-society. Our cinema is cut off from the reality of the majority. We are selling a small section’s lifestyle as representative of the entire country.” Sunny has an interesting line-up of films in the offing. He describes his next release I Love New Year as a sweet film. “It took me out of my comfort zone. Such films are called romcoms now. I am sure I did them earlier when they were called something else. I also have Chandraprakash Diwedi’s Mohalla Assi where I play a Sanskrit teacher and Neerraj Pathak’s Bhaiyyaji Superhit. Both are strong subjects. There’s also J P Dutta’s Border 2. I am hoping I love New Year releases during the New Year. That’s the film’s flavour. After that I’ll ask my producers to release the other two films. The beauty of these films is they won’t get dated.”
Sunny is amused when you mention this to him, “Look we are acting. We are not really husband and wife. If she’s younger to me, that’s fine. A lot of wives are much younger than their husbands. Besides, Urvashi is not a 19-year old novice either.”
The conversation veers towards how his latest release is different from other modern-day films. According to Sunny, Singh Saab The Great marks the return of Indian values on screen after a long period of time. “It is after
According to Sunny, several films were appreciated for their cinematography and artwork, but that did not make them outstanding for the audiences. “A visually appealing film may not always appeal to the audiences. How can a film without a soul be considered good cinema?” he asks. Sunny also has reservations about the content of modern-day love stories and their “definition” of love, “Nowadays love stories have couples looking for sex. But I am of the opinion that a love story cannot work if there is no innocence in the relationship.”
There has been a lot of curiosity about why the senior actor chose to work with a co-star half his age in Singh Saab The Great?
Sunny adds that he intends to continue working with new heroines in the future. He surprises you with his honesty when he discloses the real reasons why he prefers to work with rank newcomers, “I’ve had problems with established heroines. For reasons best known to them, they don’t want to work with me. It’s a fact that top heroines turn me down whenever I ask them to work with me. They are open to working with Shah Rukh, Salman and Hrithik. It’s fine with me. I am comfortable working with new heroines, like Urvashi Rautela. These girls do not ration dates and I don’t have to deal with my heroine’s tantrums. Also, I get a chance to give new talent to the film industry. In fact, I’ll be seen with newer co-stars in the future. Trust me these new girls won’t look mismatched with me. I am open to adapting myself to the changes around me.”
to portray the right values to our younger generations. Why are we copying Western films?”
“Nowadays love stories have couples looking for sex. But I am of the opinion that a love story cannot work if there is no innocence in the relationship.” hi nahin parivar kya hota hai. If we don’t have cinema propagating the correct values, we’d soon be left with cinema that is built entirely on marketing hype,” he rues. The forthright actor goes on to clarify that he is not hitting out at any particular cinema. “I don’t have anything against anyone but the teeny-bopper love stories and the stuff that we lately witness in films, are reducing the impact of our cinema. Our filmmakers owe a responsibility to society. They’ve a commitment
Sunny is also set to do another family film with his father Dharmendra and brother Bobby. “It is a very interesting film called Ishq De Maare being made by Subhash Ghai. It’s a story about three people from different age-groups and the problems they go through.” However the actor is in no mood to talk about his home productions. “I have a couple of films lined up but I do not want to talk about them yet. Kisiki nazar lag jaaati hai. I am not superstitious. But when things go repeatedly wrong I am forced to be,” he quips.
“Our cinema is cut off from the reality of the majority. We are selling a small section’s lifestyle as representative of the entire country.” www.visionasia.co.nz | January 2014 21
Travel
Split harbour depicting Diocletian’s palace, by night
Coastal Croatia A rare blend of glamour and old-fashioned authenticity Croatia has long been a top holiday destination for those who love great weather, stunning beaches and plenty of history and culture thrown in. It is also a relatively affordable destination for a summer holiday, particularly when compared to countries such as Italy, Spain or Greece. This small Balkan country presents many great opportunities to holidaymakers and the coast is lined with picturesque ancient towns and hundreds of islands. Here are some of the best places to go for a beach holiday in Croatia.
Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is undoubtedly Croatia’s best-known holiday destination and, mostly for this reason, it is also by far the most expensive. Although it has become somewhat of an overpriced tourist trap, Dubrovnik is still a stunning ancient walled city characterized by its turquoise marine surroundings, quaint cobbled streets and red-tiled roofs. Dubrovnik is served by various cheap airlines. Be aware however, that, if you plan to visit other places in Croatia
22 January 2014 | www.visionasia.co.nz
in the same trip, you will have to cross through a narrow section of Bosnia to reach the rest of the country. However, most countries no longer need to obtain visas for either Bosnia or Croatia.
Split
If you prefer cities, history and culture than spending most of your time by the beach, Split is a wonderful place to go. Unlike the other coastal cities of Croatia, Split is of a large
enough size for you to be able to escape the hordes of tourists. It also boasts a wealth of history, plenty of great food and hospitable people. Built around the ruins of Diocletian’s Palace, a retirement home built by the Roman emperor some 1,700 years ago, Split is both steeped in history and presents some unforgettable landmarks. There is a beautiful promenade overlooking the bay and, a short bus ride away, are plenty of great beaches for those lazy days spent in the sun.
Travel
Ariel View of Dubrovnik
Brela
The small fishing village of Brela, located between Omiš and Makarska, is one of the best destinations in the region for a family holiday. Now a popular resort, there is not a lot to see in the village itself, but the surroundings are nonetheless quite beautiful. Brela is also home to one of the most stunning beaches in Croatia. In fact, the Forbes magazine rated it in 2003 as the sixth most beautiful beach in the entire world! Unfortunately, it can get very overcrowded, so it is best to go out of the peak season if at all possible.
Makarska
Makarska is a small historic town about the same size as Omiš and about an hour by bus further south. Unlike Omiš, however, Makarska is a very lively place making it ideal for those who want to enjoy a bit of nightlife. Very much a seasonal resort town, Makarska nonetheless presents many historical sites and a very picturesque centre and harbour. There is a huge beach, although it does get extremely crowded during the summer months. As with most other towns along the Croatian Adriatic Coast, you can also find plenty of daytrips to the islands.
Omiš
Omiš is a small historic town a short bus ride away from Split, making it a convenient place to go for those who want to get out of the city. Historically known for the infamous Omiš Corsairs (pirates) during medieval times, the town boasts a colourful history among its cobbled alleys and picturesque old buildings. It is also a fairly affordable destination and you can enjoy plenty of fine food and cheap, yet high quality accommodation here. The beach in Omiš might not be one of the nicer ones in the region, but you can easily take a daytrip by boat to one of the outlying islands.
Statue of St. Peter in Makarska
Pebble Beach at Night, Brela
With isolated islands, beautiful beaches, water sports and historic ports, Coastal Croatia is a great seaside break.
Illuminated Pirate Castle and Town of Omis www.visionasia.co.nz | January 2014 23
24 January 2014 | www.visionasia.co.nz
Salman Khan www.visionasia.co.nz | January 2014 25
ENCOUNTER
blast
I am not having a
in my life
26 January 2014 | www.visionasia.co.nz
ENCOUNTER
Dhoom 3 has been one of the most anticipated films of 2013 and Katrina Kaif is eagerly looking forward to her moment of reckoning. Once known as the lucky mascot of the industry who worked her way to the top, the actress was offended when the focus recently shifted from her professional life to her personal life. At a joint media interaction for the prerelease campaign of Dhoom 3, the actress spoke her heart out on various issues.
Now that Dhoom 3 is being released, tell us about the Dhoom (blast) that you had in real life? Right now, I am not having a blast in my life as my focus is on the film. That is the only Dhoom in my life. It’s been a long time and long wait for the release and I am looking forward to it. How was it romancing Aamir on screen? How would you rate his performance? I will give him nine out of ten. In terms of acting I was worried because he is a method actor but on the first day of the shoot he put me at ease. I found him very spontaneous. I remember there was this song where I had to dance and then put my legs on his shoulder. During the rehearsals he asked me not to worry but when it came to the real shoot he asked me not to put too much weight on his shoulder as he had had an injury. I think he is quite chilled out. Was there any scary moment while shooting for the film? I remember there was one particular sequence that we shot for a song in the film, when Aamir and I were suspended from a hoop, with no harness. We were 30 to 40 feet above the ground. It was an extremely difficult act. On the day the song was shot, Aamir and I got up on the hoop and were lifted high. We had to bend backwards together. We realised that if we did not hold on to each other, we would fall and break our bones. It was probably the scariest moment of the shoot.
I was worried because Aamir is a method actor but on the first day of the shoot he put me at ease. www.visionasia.co.nz | January 2014 27
ENCOUNTER
I want to be clear on this. It’s my original quote and I am saying it again. I am single till I get married.
The title song of Dhoom 3 was earlier picturised on Esha Deol and then Aishwarya Rai. Was there any pressure on you to outdo the other two? The song is done in an international format. There is a sense of responsibility when you perform on the song because two actors have already done their best in the same song. But then the song is also a lot about the film and the scenes. It’s everyone’s video. The making of the song was hard work and I took it as a challenge. I don’t think I have trained so much for any film. It’s a very stylish song and as long as I am given the opportunity to do something different, I love doing it. I don’t think anyone has done such a song in Hindi cinema. You seem to have got over your Barbie Doll image with the film. How do you manage to keep yourself so fit? I guess I overdid my Barbie doll image so much, that I had to run away from my trainer Yasmin Karachiwala. I had to do functional training for two and a half hours every day for my role in the film. This had nothing to do with the looks; it was for the fitness quotient that I needed to achieve for the acrobatic stunts and songs. I needed to have strong shoulders.
Salman is the easy-going kind and I don’t feel self-conscious while working with him. He doesn’t judge you.
28 January 2014 | www.visionasia.co.nz
You have worked with the three Khans, Salman, Shah Rukh and now Aamir Khan. How different was the experience working with them? I would say that Salman, Shah Rukh and Aamir have been legends of the industry for the longest time and I have been fortunate enough to get an opportunity to work with them. I have known Salman for a long time and we are very comfortable with each other. Salman is the easy-going kind and I don’t feel self-conscious while working with him. He doesn’t judge you. I was a little nervous while working with Shah Rukh. I would happily chat with him behind the scenes but once the director called for action, I would start fumbling. As for Aamir, his personality is very charming. He made me very comfortable from day one. Tell us about your forthcoming films? I am doing Bang Bang with Hrithik Roshan and the film is being directed by Siddharth Raj Anand. It’s inspired by the Hollywood film Knight and Day, but adapted to the tastes of
the Indian audiences. It’s an action comedy, something which I haven’t done for a long time. I am excited about the film as it’s an edge of the seat thriller unlike all the love stories I have done before. This film too has a love angle but with a twist. I am also doing Kabir Khan’s next opposite Saif Ali Khan. Again I am excited to work with Kabir Khan whom I have already worked with earlier in New York. Here I play a secret agent. Coming to your personal life, are you still upset with the media for splashing your holiday pictures with Ranbir Kapoor while in Spain? I was deeply hurt by the pictures because it was an encroachment of my personal space. As a public personality, I am open to doing interviews, press meets on the sets but this was an unguarded private moment. I have been acting in films for the last nine years and this is the first time that I experienced something like this. No one has ever clicked pictures of me when I go with my sisters on the beach. I felt something like this shouldn’t be done. Then I decided that you have to live your life and move on as there are worse things happening in the world. I don’t hold grudges any longer. Do you feel the paparazzi have become a threat to the privacy of stars? I think it has become easier for people these days to click pictures with the advent of smart phones. With social networking sites and Twitter invading our lives, this has become even more complex. There was news that you are planning to get engaged in 2014? I want to be clear on this. It’s my original quote and I am saying it again. I am single till I get married. I have no marriage plans for now. I want to focus on my career. Do you fear anyone or anything in real life? I am not afraid of anyone or anything. I believe that fear is a state of mind when you anticipate the worst. Once you start going after what you are afraid of in life, you lose all your fear. Life goes on and things are not really bad. The theme of Dhoom 3 says just that. When you set out to do what you want, you can let go of all the fear.
B-BUZZ
Kajol adores Ajay Devgn’s reticence He is known for his quiet intensity and his reticence, qualities that have not made him a great favourite with his co-stars. But it is these very qualities which his wife Kajol finds endearing. The actress, who recently accompanied her husband to an event, confessed that the secret of their happy married life was the fact that Ajay keeps mum most of the times. “We were best friends before we got married and our relationship works because he quietly listens while I talk a lot. He barely replies and I can go on for hours together” she added. Later Ajay jokingly commented, “Sometimes I really listen to her and sometimes I pretend to listen.” Ajay and Kajol have been together for almost 15 years now and their two children Nysa and Yug keep them occupied most of the time.
It is party time for Shahid Kapoor His R. Rajkumar may not have set trends at the box-office but Shahid Kapoor is quite elated about the fact that the film has got a great opening and performed above expectations. This despite the fact that critics were quick to dismiss the film from day one of its release. Shahid is now planning to organise a big bash to celebrate the film’s success. Sources close to the actor reveal that Shahid’s excitement is understandable since the actor has been waiting for a hit for quite a while, with his last few films proving to be miserable flops. The news goes that Shahid has already sent invitations to his close friends and the people who stood by him for the party. www.visionasia.co.nz | January 2014 29
Face to Face
I am far too lazy for
six packs Arshad Warsi is back and how. The actor has shed a lot of weight and is looking fitter and slimmer. Moreover Arshad is currently on a career high with some of the best films in the offing, starting with Mr. Joe B. Carvalho, Dedh Ishkiya, Chambal Safari, Bhaiyajji Superhit and Legend of Michael Mishra. In a frank interview, the actor talks about his films and his life in general. 30 January 2014 | www.visionasia.co.nz
Face to Face
You have to invest a lot into marriage to keep it going or else your relationship will go for a toss.
Tell us something about your forthcoming film, Joe B. Carvalho. Joe B. Carvalho is a comedy of errors that erupts due to a mistaken identity between a detective and the villain who is his namesake, played by Javed Jaffrey. I play the detective in the film while Soha plays a police officer. The film is a satire and both I and Soha had a fun time shooting for it. Reportedly the film also marks your return as a choreographer. I have choreographed one song in the film at the insistence of the director. I have always been passionate about choreography. If anyone wants me to choreograph I will certainly do it for them, it gives me good money (laughs). You have given up dancing completely, wouldn’t you like to do an item number? I am not too keen on dancing anymore. I don’t think I can do an item number either. I think young men with six packs can certainly present a better picture while dancing. I dance in the films that I am doing and that’s about it. Yes I would certainly love to choreograph a hero in an item number. Aamir has done one in Delhi Belly and I enjoyed it. I would love to do an item number based on Playboy or Chippendale. Why should the women get all the item numbers? For a change, I want to see the men dancing and the women ogling at them. Aren’t you looking at developing six packs like most other heroes in the industry? I am far too lazy for six packs. I did try all that in my younger days. I’d rather spend my precious time relaxing with my family. I cycle for fitness and I do it for exercise and fun. I go cycling every day from my house to Bandra. That also gives me an opportunity to interact with people who greet me on the way. There’s a positive buzz about your new lean and fit look. Did you achieve it for any particular role? I had taken two months off to work on my body for a film titled Chambal Safari. The director Samir Tewari wanted me to lose up to twenty pounds for the role. I worked on my physique in order to get the desired weight.
What is the film all about? Chambal Safari is a lovely satire on the dacoits of the notorious Chambal valley. They are a dwindling lot these days and are left with no food and no bullets. In the film, the government announces Chambal as a tourist spot and asks them to become guides. I play a dacoit who goes to surrender to the police. Unfortunately, there are no police on duty so he is asked to go back and return the next day. There is also a romantic angle to the story but I cannot talk
about it right now. You have also been shooting for the second installment of Ishkiya, Dedh Ishkiya. How was the experience shooting with Madhuri Dixit and Naseruddin Shah? It was a pleasure working with Madhuri. She is an extremely professional actress, who never complains about anything. I remember we were shooting in the heat and dust and she would come all dressed up on the sets, unperturbed by the surroundings. She would bring that charming freshness on the sets and change the entire atmosphere. I also shared a great equation with Naseeruddin Shah. He is a very shayarana (poetic) and serious kind; but with me around he was always witty. We had done the first part together too and we are more of friends now. Your other film Bhaiyaji Superhit is said to be stuck up and lying in the cans. What went wrong with the film? I am not aware about the latest position of the film but I feel sad that it could not be completed and released. There were too many actors in the film and the dates of the actors couldn’t be adjusted. No one can be really blamed for it. You are also doing The Legend Of Michael Mishra and another film, 68 Carat. Can you tell us something about these films? The Legend of Michael Mishra is a crazy love story directed by Manish Jha, with whom I had worked earlier for the Voltas commercial. The film is unique in its stylization and execution. It’s an unusual film and that’s what got me excited about it. I play the title role of this fictitious guy who never exists. On the other hand, 68 Carat is based on the Angadia tribe. Umesh Shukhla of Oh My God fame has written the script. I am listening to two more scripts. What is the status of your two other films Munnabhai Chale Amerika and Peekay? The director Subhash Kapoor is working on Munnabhai Chale Amerika. I am sure he will come up with something political. He is good at it and has immense knowledge. As for Peekay, I had to give up the film because of date issues.
www.visionasia.co.nz | January 2014 31
Face to Face
It was a pleasure working with Madhuri. She is an extremely professional actress, who never complains about anything. I was shooting for Dedh Ishkiya at that time. What do awards mean to you? I never look for awards. I just do my job and look for rewards. There are many aspects to winning an award. It is not just your efforts. There has to be audience appreciation too. Sheer acting does not stand a chance. In my case, I look for appreciation both from the makers and the audiences. You are said to be very attached to your two kids, Zeke Zidaan and Zene Zoe. Do you take time off for them? They are both busy with their studies now and are growing up. Zeke Zidaan Warsi is eight years old. In Arabic, Zeke means a shooting star. I thought it was a cool name. Zidaan means pinnacle, the highest point. My daughter Zoe is five and a half years old. In Greek Zoe means life. They are the two little angels who light up my life and there is no way I cannot find time for them.
Why should the women get all the item numbers? For a change, I When I was doingthe want to see Ra-One and men dancing Bodyguard I was and the women ogling already in a live-in relationship at them. with Saif. 32 January 2014 | www.visionasia.co.nz
There were issues in your marriage earlier. How are things now? How do you manage to strike equilibrium in your busy schedule? Every marriage has its ups and downs, we went through ours too but we sorted things out. I couldn’t give much time to my family earlier but now I make sure I spend enough time. At times you take life for granted. A man invariably gives more importance to his work. Men don’t realize when their wives need them the most. Ultimately you have to invest a lot into marriage to keep it going or else your relationship will go for a toss. I go out of my way to spend time at home with my wife, Maria. She doesn’t need diamonds or cars. She is content with a quiet dinner. What advice would you give to younger couples on how to keep their marriage going? Until someone talks to me I don’t give them advice. However, the few tricks I know of are the morning roses and flowers or a surprise party. Women love surprise parties more than flowers and diamonds.
b-buzz
Hrithik Roshan flies down to U.K Hrithik Roshan’s health problems continue to be a cause of concern for the actor. Post the super success of Krrish 3, Hrithik was to start shooting for Siddharth Anand’s Bang Bang with Katrina Kaif, but the actor wanted to recuperate and decided to push forward his dates. Reports indicate that Hrithik has flown down to London for a health check-up after which he will proceed to the U.S. for the same reason. There was news that Hrithik was planning to undergo a second surgery in the U.S. but the actor’s father Rakesh Roshan has squashed all the rumours. “Hrithik is going on a vacation with his friends and he will get a test done for his recurring headaches. There is no surgery that is going to happen in US.” Rakesh Roshan also said that Hrithik’s health was more important than anything else and money was of secondary importance. He also revealed that things would be back on track once Hrithik returned.
Abhishek does a Salman Khan act
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After Salman Khan, who had taken a fascination for driving rickshaws in and around the city during the shooting of one of his films, it is now Abhishek Bachchan’s turn to do the same. The junior Bachchan, who was required to ride an auto rickshaw for some of the action scenes in Dhoom 3, was quite excited at the idea. So much so that Abhishek kept riding the rickshaw even after his shots were canned. A source from the unit of the film recalls, “It was a novel experience for Abhishek who insisted on riding the auto rickshaw even after the shoot. Abhishek is very fond of bikes and he often goes on rounds in the middle of the night. However this was something that the actor had never experienced so he decided to make the most of it.”
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Glitz & Glamour
Glitz&Glamour
John Abraham, Tara Sharma at the SCMM press conference Bollywood hunk John Abraham and actress Tara Sharma were spotted at the Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon press meet held at Hotel Trident in Mumbai. The international marathon is held annually in Mumbai on the third Sunday of January every year. John and Tara looked elegant in formals.
36 January 2014 | www.visionasia.co.nz
Sachin Tendulkar at the promotion of Cafe Coffee Day Ace Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar who recently announced his retirement from world cricket, was spotted at an event in Mumbai to announce the association between Cafe Coffee Day Lounge and Universal Sportsbiz. Sachin was dressed casually for the event in a green shirt and jeans.
Glitz & Glamour
Hello Awards 2013 Actress Rekha oozed charm in a super gold silk saree at Hello! Hall of Fame Awards 2013. The event which was held at Palladium hotel, Mumbai, was a star-studded affair with the who’s who of Bollywood in attendance.
Actress Bipasha looked Pinkathon’s stunning in a designer and Bipasha BasuBasu supports second blue edition white BCBG skirt and matching white buttoned shirt, at the HCG
Pinkathon, a multi city 10 KM run for women in Mumbai. The event which was organised by HCG was in favour to support Pinkathon’s second edition in Mumbai. The actress who is supporting this cause with immense pride was happy to be a part of the 10,000 women who are in support for this noble endeavour.
Sona Sansaar CELEBRATING NEW YEAR WITH BIGGEST
Priyanka Chopra launches new collection and campaign of GUESS Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra was snapped at the launch of new collection and campaign of Guess. Priyanka was at her elegant best in black top & military denims. Priyanka is the first Indian to be signed by the international fashion brand, Guess, for its Holiday 2013 campaign.
BANGLE
SALE EVER Bangle range you must have never seen before, so don’t miss this opportunity Tulja Centre 190 Stoddard Road, Mt Roskill , Ph: 09 629 3333 172 Great South Rd, Papatoetoe , Ph: 278 6000 www.facebook.com/SakhiNZ • www.sonasansaar.co.nz
www.visionasia.co.nz | January 2014 37
Food
Tofu truly amazing
health benefits!
More and more people are moving away from the bad cholesterol associated with eating other foods, and have moved to the protein benefits of soy that tofu is made from. It contains all essential amino acids that are the building blocks of protein. It is used as a substitute for meat and can be grilled, but also, as you will see from my recipe this month, baked in desserts! As little as 25 grams of soy protein in tofu may have positive heart benefits. Tofu contains substances that are believed to assist in prevention of hormone-related cancers, and help reverse bone density loss and “hot flushes” in menopausal women. Add to that, tofu is low in fat, low in calories & high in calcium! Tofu is very versatile, providing texture and protein whilst taking on the flavour of whatever it is added to. It’s available in different varieties and consistencies, and can be sliced, stir-fried, seasoned, pureed as a cheese substitute, mashed, blended, & used in dips and toppings. Wow!
Here’s a quick guide to the types of tofu available and how they can be used: • Firm (or regular) tofu This is an all-purpose tofu. It is is drained and pressed, but still has a lot of moisture. It has a softer texture, not as smooth as silken tofu or as grainy as extra-firm. Not the best tofu for grilling, but it absorbs marinades well so it’s a good option for stir-fries. When fried, it is creamy on the inside. Use it as a topping on pizza, or in tacos. • Silken tofu As the name suggests, silken tofu is smooth. It’s an un-drained, un-pressed tofu, with a high moisture content & a custard-like texture. Silken tofu is often used as a fat substitute in desserts, and replaces cheese in some dishes. Use it in salad dressings, pie fillings, puddings and smoothies. • Extra-Firm tofu This is tofu has the least moisture since most of the liquid has been pressed out; it won’t fall apart during cooking. If you want to try grilled or seared tofu, this is the right choice.
My chocolate tofu cake is easy-to-make, moist, flavoursome, and full of benefits for your health. It helps with dietary needs and is a wonderful addition to your baking/dessert arsenal. The Tofu Gingerine is a quick recipe for you to enjoy a savoury version of tofu. Bon appétit!
38 January 2014 | www.visionasia.co.nz
food
Chocolate Tofu Cake Preparation time: 25-30 min Serves: 6-8 people Ingredients • 2 cups flour • 3/4 cup dark coco powder • 1 tsp salt • 1 tsp baking powder • 2 tsp baking soda • 2 cup brown sugar • 1 cup coconut oil / vegetable oil • 1 cup water • 1 1/4 tsp coffee • 1/2 cup tofu / cottage cheese • 1 cup almond milk / regular milk • 1 tsp vanilla essence
Method 1. Preheat oven to 160o C. 2. Grease the mould with oil spray or coco powder. 3. Dissolve coffee powder in hot water. 4. Sift flour, combine with salt, baking powder, baking soda, coco powder and sugar. 5. In another mixing bowl mix milk, hot coffee decoction. 6. Puree tofu and mix it with all the liquids. Add vanilla essence. 7. Combine all the wet ingredients with dry ingredients, beat the batter for 2-3 min 8. Pour the batter in mould and bake for 25-30 min until the wooden pick inserted in the middle of cake comes out clean. 9. Let the cake completely cool before removing from the pan.
Tofu Gingerine Preparation time: 5- 10 min Serves: 4-6 people
Ingredients • 400 gm tofu • 1/4 cup ginger • 1/4 cup garlic • 1/8 cup sesame seeds • 1 tbl spoon red chilli chopped • 2 tbl spoon of oil • 2 tbl spoon soy sauce • 2 tbl spoon chopped scallion for garnish • 2 tsp orange zest
Method 1. Heat oil in a pan and add ginger, garlic and chilli. Cook until fragrant. 2. Add tofu and cook till its firm. 3. Add soy sauce and sesame seeds. 4. Garnish with chopped scallions and orange zest
Chef Jasbir Kaur
Jasbir (or Jazz, as she prefers) has caused ripples around the world with her unique approach to cooking, encompassing every nationality. The zest and joy Jazz brings to her work is something quite special. Jazz has worked in the UK and in many top US hotels, gaining experience and insight along the way. She’s a guest speaker on radio and also writes for specialist food blogs. Recently, she has been the guest chef on Good Morning on TV One, and has completed 50 shows detailing seasonal, fresh, and healthy produce. She has an extensive knowledge of herbs and spices, their healing properties and a passion for French cuisine. Her recipes and simplicity in food creation have gained her a broad cross-section of followers. If you have any special vegetarian recipes you’d like to request from Chef Jasbir, please write to us at feedback@visionasia.co.nz and we’ll feature them in the magazine. www.visionasia.co.nz | January 2014 39
b-buzz
Bipasha Basu in love with life There are reports that actress Bipasha Basu has been bonding big time with Harman Baweja these days. The couple has been spotted together on many occasions. However the actress is not ready to talk about it yet. When asked about it recently, she simply shrugged, “I am in love with life and everything around me. The day I start seeing someone, I will reveal all. I have always been open about my relationships. Why will I hide it now,” she said matter-of-factly. The actress, a fitness freak who is busy with her fitness DVD’s adds that life is precious especially for women. “Women are continuously multitasking hence they need to take care of their health. You have to take time out for your own body and love yourself,” she says. Bipasha is now planning to come out with a fitness DVD for working women. She reveals that it was her mother who inspired her in the field of fitness from an early age. “We are three sisters and she took great care of us. She took great care of her health and taught us that one should give it the first priority. I believe that women should get up and start taking care of themselves.”
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News Express
An upset
Prabhu Deva lashes out at critics
The scathing reviews of his latest film R... Rajkumar, its positive opening collections notwithstanding, has left Prabhu Deva uncharacteristically infuriated. In a conversation with Subhash K Jha, the director talks about how he is deeply upset with the media.
The otherwise calm and composed Prabhu Deva is fuming these days and he is in no forgiving mood. The otherwise cool and composed director is offended with the harsh critical reviews of his latest film R. Rajkumar. Lashing out at the critics for savaging his film Prabhu says, “What is so terrible about my film that critics have chosen to make personal remarks about me? With due respects, who are they to decide what kind of films I should make? If as they say, my formula has become trite, how is it that R. Rajkumar opened so well everywhere, including the single theatres but in multiplexes as well.” On Friday, Prabhu went theatrehopping in Mumbai and returned home happy. “Everyone from members of the audience to the ushers and canteen-wallas at theatres said they loved the film. I personally saw packed theatres where audiences were clapping, cheering and dancing.” However he was upset the next day when he saw the reviews of the film. Prabhu wants to know whom the reviews are aimed at. “The people who are going to see my film are obviously not influenced by the critics’ harsh comments. The critics gave four stars to some recent films that opened poorly and did not even pick up.” Prabhu sees a glaring lacuna between critics’ opinion and audiences’ response. He also feels that there
is no need to pay undue attention to the remarks made by some critics. “A few critics commented that my style of filmmaking was hackneyed and I needed to do something about it. As long as the audiences see my films why should I change my style? Even my harshest critics have said that they witnessed the Prabhu Deva signature style. Moreover, why should I give it up when so many other filmmakers are attempting it?” Prabhu is unable to figure out why his patent style has become a problem for some critics. “So many great filmmakers in the past had a great signature style. Manmohan Desai’s lost-and-found films were loved by everyone. If I am making one style of films why is that a problem?” Prabhu clarifies that he has no intentions of changing his style. “My next film Action Jackson is very much within my comfort zone. I won’t change my style to please a few critics.” Prabhu who has been temple-hopping since Friday says he is unlikely to make a film that is in total contrast to his distinct style of filmmaking. “I am known by a particular style. Until the audience rejects my style, I am not changing. Why should I make films like European and American directors? Please don’t judge my films by imported yardsticks,” avers the cross director.
So many great filmmakers in the past had a great signature style. If I am making one style of films why is that a problem? www.visionasia.co.nz | January 2014 41
Fashion
Fashion originality is all about
42 January 2014 | www.visionasia.co.nz
FASHION
He has successfully completed the transition from being a well-known model to one of the finest actors in the industry with films like Rock On and Raajneeti. However, model-turnedactor Arjun Rampal continues to be talked about for his suave personality and his great sense of style. Here the style icon shares his views on fashion and how he perceives it. My idea of fashion: I believe being fashionable is all about wearing your attitude to the hilt. It is about being cool, casual and comfortable in clothes that best reflect your personality. For me, originality is the word. Fashion is not about imitating others and wearing designer clothes. I also hate to be flashy with clothes. I avoid people who are extravagantly dressed and try to make an impression with their clothes.
My ultimate fashion icon: I would say it is my wife Meher. She exudes style in anything she wears. In fact, she can just about carry off anything. I really envy her at times.
My favourite casual wear: I am most comfortable in jeans or track pants and T-shirts. I also love Ganjis.
My favourite party wear: I love wearing white kurtas and pyjamas for special occasions. They look classic and royal too. Apart from that, I throw in a designer
jacket for evening wear. I also wear suits when going out for parties.
The most important clothing in my cupboard: They are my undergarments. I am fussy about them. They have to be well-fitting and comfortable and I give as much importance to them as my other clothes.
My favourite designers: Among the Indian brands I love the creations of Tarun Tahiliani and Rohit Bal. As for international brands, it’s Adidas, Diesel, Armani and Calvin Klein clothes and accessories.
My favourite colors: Blue is my favourite colour. It’s not that I don’t like any other colour but I easily get attracted to different shades of blue. Apart from that, I love wearing black, whether it is suits, sherwanis or even black shirts.
London is the hub. I shop in a store named Brown. I had shopped extensively on my first anniversary and bought a lot of clothes there.
My favourite cologne: My favourite brand of cologne is Jo Malone. It is a permanent feature in my closet. I find it very earthy and classic. Also, I am quite choosy about fragrances, which led me to create my own perfume, Alive, which is all about making you feel alive.
Apart from my clothes, I am fussy about: I am extra particular about my hair. It’s difficult to maintain long hair. I don’t know how women do it. I don’t mess with it too much but take care to oil and shampoo it regularly.
My tips for youngsters: Each one has his own style, so do not follow trends blindly. Don’t let your clothes wear you and don’t be brand conscious.
My favourite shopping destination: As far as food and fashion is concerned, www.visionasia.co.nz | January 2014 43
Star trac FEATURE
The year 2013 witnessed defining moments at the box-office with films and their respective stars entering the Rs 200 crore club. The business of films increased by leaps and bounds with the stars above shining bright on some of the B-town stars, who touched new heights of success.
Amitabh Bachchan (11th October 1942) This legendary super star is ruled by Numbers 2 and 7 (Moon and Ketu), Number 6 (Libra –ruler Venus) and his compound number adds up to Number 1 (Sun). Being in his 72nd year, once again focus is on his health as it indicates complications, especially stomach related issues mainly due to stress. But since the year 2014 adds up to Number 7, one of his strongest numbers, he will survive the tide and come out safely. On the film front, his next release ‘Bhoothnath Returns’ will fail to attract the audiences (read kids) in huge numbers.
Aamir Khan
(14th March 1965)
Our very own Mr. Perfectionist is ruled by Number 5 (Mercury), Number 3 (ruler Jupiter – Pisces) and Number 2 (Moon). After creating ‘Dhoom’ (literally!) with ‘Dhoom 3’, his next release ‘Peekay’ with the genius Rajkumar Hirani will set new benchmarks for others to follow. The new season of his television show will also garner huge ratings.
Shahrukh Khan (2nd November 1965) Influenced by Numbers 2 and 7 (Moon and Ketu) and Number 9 (Scorpio – ruler Mars) & being in his 49th year indicates an excellent phase for SRK in times ahead. As usual, he will be winning a host of awards for Chennai Express. His X’mas release aptly titled Happy New Year will do roaring business and break records of his own film. There will be happier times on the personal front as well whereas his IPL T20 team Kolkata Knight Riders’ performance in the upcoming season will also be encouraging.
Salman Khan (27th December 1965) The nation’s most loved star, Salman is ruled by Number 9 (Mars), Number 8 (ruler Saturn – Capricorn) and Number 6 (Venus). His soon-to-release ‘Jai Ho’ will be a sure shot blockbuster, whereas his Eid offering ‘Kick’ will redefine box office numbers. On the personal front, although he might date someone, he will remain single and happy throughout 2014.
Akshay Kumar (9th September 1967) Akshay is ruled by Number 9 (Mars) and Number 5 (Mercury) twice. As he will be remaining in his 47th year for the major part, his next releases; ‘It’s Entertainment’ and ‘Gabbar’ may under-perform and surprise many. On the other hand, he will be able to give time to his family.
Hrithik Roshan (10th January 1974) Hrithik is primarily ruled by the most powerful star – the Sun (Number 1). Being a Capricorn, he is also ruled by Number 8 (Saturn) and his destiny number adds to Number 5 (Mercury). Hrithik will be now be entering the 41st year of his life which indicates that his best year is ahead of him. On the film front, his next release ‘Bang Bang’ will fare extremely well at the box office.
44 January 2014 | www.visionasia.co.nz
ck 2014 FEATURE
Will 2014 prove to be luckier for the top stars? Astro Numerologist Bhavikk Sangghvi finds out what is in store for our top Bollywood stars and what their numbers indicate.
Ranbir Kapoor (28th September 1982) Ranbir comes under the direct influence of Number 1 (Sun), Number 6 (Venus – Libra) and Number 3 (Jupiter). In his 32nd year, it is a good time for Ranbir on the professional front and on the personal front too. His compatibility with Katrina (16th July 1983) is superb and they should at least get engaged in the last quarter of 2014. His releases, ‘Roy’ and ‘Jagga Jasoos’ will do decent business, but it will be Anurag Kashyap’s ‘Bombay Velvet’ which will catapult him to a higher league. His current name spelling is adding up to Number 40 which is not a positive number and hence he should spell his name as Ranbir R. Kapoor for best results.
Deepika Padukone (5th January 1986) Deepika is ruled by Number 5 (Mercury), Number 8 (ruler Saturn – Capricorn) and Number 3 (Jupiter). Entering her 29th year at the start of the year itself, her string of hits will continue with ‘Kochadaiiyaan’, ‘Finding Fanny Fernandes’ and the biggie ‘Happy New Year’ towards the end. But on the personal front, it will still be the waiting game for the leggy lass, as it will take another year or so for her to find that perfect match. As for Ranveer Singh, unlike their hot on-screen chemistry, their pairing isn’t that compatible in real life, numerologically speaking.
Farhan Akhtar (9th January 1974) Farhan is ruled by Number 9 (Mars), Number 8 (ruler Saturn - Capricorn) and Number 4 (Rahu). Entering in his 41st year at the start of the year itself, his soon-to-release ‘Shaadi Ke Side Effects’ will be a ‘runaway’ (pun unintended) success. As for direction, he can take a break and concentrate on acting.
Ajay Devgn (2nd April 1969) Ajay is ruled by Numbers 2 and 7 (Moon and Ketu), Number 9 (Mars – Aries) and Number 4 (Rahu). In his 45th year for the first quarter, he will deliver a hit with his next ‘Action Jackson’. Even after that, once he enters his 46th year, it will continue with ‘Singham 2’.
Katrina Kaif (16th July 1983) Katrina is ruled by Numbers 2 and 7 (Moon and Ketu) twice and Number 8 (Saturn). After the recent historic success of her last release ‘Dhoom 3’, her forthcoming movies ‘Bang Bang’, ‘Jagga Jasoos’, ‘Phantom’ and ‘Fitoor’ will all be either hits or super-hits. Yes, she might even consolidate her relationship with Ranbir by the end of 2014.
Saif Ali Khan (16th August 1970) Saif is ruled by Numbers 2 and 7 (Moon and Ketu), Number 1 (ruler Sun – Leo) and Number 5 (Mercury). In his 44th year, Saif will start the year with a bang with the success of his home production ‘Happy Ending’. After that, the lucky streak shall continue with ‘Humshakals’ and ‘Phantom’. On the health front, he needs to be careful especially post August, but on the brighter side, his bond with begum Kareena will only grow during this time. www.visionasia.co.nz | January 2014 45
FEATURE
Priyanka Chopra (18th July 1982) Priyanka is ruled by Number 9 (Mars) twice and Numbers 2 and 7 (Moon and Ketu – Cancer). While she will remain in her 32nd year during the first half, she will have to share the credit for the success of ‘Gunday’ with fellow co-stars Ranveer Singh and Arjun Kapoor; but it will be her role as a real life boxer in ‘Mary Kom’ which will win her accolades from all quarters. While matters related to the heart would remain a bit slow, she may meet someone interesting enough before the year comes to a close.
Ranveer Singh (6th July 1985) Ranveer is ruled by Number 6 (Venus), Numbers 2 and 7 (Moon and Ketu – Cancer) and Number 9 (Mars). Being in his 29th year and basking in the glory of the success of Ram-Leela, his streak with good luck will continue even with his soon-to-release ‘Gunday’. But the same cannot be said about ‘Kill Dil’, as the film will not appeal to the public. As for some real-life romance in his life, his equation with Deepika Padukone is not a long-standing one and shall die a natural death towards the second half of the year (only for the betterment of both).
Kareena Kapoor Khan (21st September 1980) ‘Bebo’ (as she is fondly called) is ruled by Number 3 (Jupiter) twice and Number 5 (ruler Mercury – Virgo). She also has a slight cusp of Libra (Number 6 – Venus). In her 34th year, her first priority will be Saif and giving him company. On the film front, her next big release ‘Shuddhi’ with Hrithik Roshan will put her back in the top bracket.
Sonakshi Sinha (2nd June 1987) Sonakshi is ruled by Number 2 (Moon), Number 5 (Mercury – Gemini) and Number 6 (Venus). Since she is ruled by Number 2, she is automatically ruled by Number 7 (Ketu). After back-to-back of hits, the law of averages finally hit her hard (with a string of flops), but it will be fine post June when she will enter her 28th year. She may even bump into someone really interesting and it may actually turn out to be a good match. On the film front, her next ‘Action Jackson’ will sail smoothly while the ‘Okkadu’ remake opposite Arjun Kapoor will give her a chance to perform.
Abhishek Bachchan (5th February 1976) Junior B is ruled by Number 5 (Mercury), Number 8 (ruler Saturn – Aquarius) and Number 3 (Jupiter). Fresh from the super success of ‘Dhoom 3’, Abhi will majorly be in his 39th year which will give him a mixed bag of results. While he will be making tons of money in endorsements, his next solo release ‘All is well’ will not find much patronage. But once again, he will shine in Farah Khan’s ‘Happy New Year’ and will be able to match shoulder to shoulder even with SRK in the lead.
Vidya Balan (1st January 1978) Vidya is ruled by Number 1 (Sun), Number 8 (Saturn – Capricorn) and her ‘destiny’ number adds up to Number 9 (Mars). Vidya will now be entering the 37th year of her life which indicates a new phase bringing positive results starting with her soon-to-release ‘Shaadi Ke Side Effects’ clicking big time at the box office followed by ‘Bobby Jasoos’. Not to mention her performances, which will be appreciated by one and all.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan (1stNovember 1973) Ash is ruled by Number 1 (Sun), Number 9 (Mars – Scorpio) and Number 5 (Mercury). Being in her 41st year indicates that she will ‘strike back’ with a vengeance. She should ensure that she has a release in 2014 before or close to her next birthday.
Arjun Rampal (26thNovember 1972) Arjun is ruled by Number 8 (Saturn), Number 3 (ruler Jupiter – Sagittarius) while his destiny number adds up to Number 2 (Moon). Since he is ruled by Number 2, he is automatically ruled by Number 7 (Ketu). In his 42nd year, Arjun will be benefitted as his next release ‘Roy’ where he is sharing screen space with Ranbir Kapoor, will be appreciated a lot and after that in ‘Rock On 2,’ once again his performance will be well received – both by the aam junta and the critics alike. 46 January 2014 | www.visionasia.co.nz
b-buzz
Dimple Kapadia is not passionate about pets
Never mind the box-office dictates, Dimple Kapadia feels that she had a great time playing the role of a 67-year-old divorcee in her latest film, What The Fish. “I loved doing a role in a film that is replete with humour. It was an altogether new experience. I wish I had got it in the beginning of my career. These new directors have great concepts and abundance of energy. I had a great time,” Dimple recently revealed. In the film the actress plays the role of a grumpy, 67-year-old who has to leave her house for a long time and hands over the house keys to her niece’s fiancé. What follows is a series of hilarious events of what happens to the house, her pet gold fish in her fish-tank, and her money plant. Ask Dimple whether she is fond of pets in real life and she smiles, “I don’t feel the need for a pet like a dog or cat. Nowadays, a laptop has become the new pet. I keep surfing on the net for hours together. I also look for antiques. It’s a passion. I was into crystal art earlier. It all depends what I like when I see it. I also read a lot of books online.”
www.visionasia.co.nz | January 2014 47
20:20
There are no
Shortcuts to hard work
1. Full Name Narendra Diwakar Bedekar 2. Hobbies / passions? Everything about photography 3 What is your success mantra? There is no shortcut, as it is said, “Hard work is the key to success”. However, only hard work doesn’t help. In creative areas you need to be passionate about your work, have an open mind and a desire to learn along with patience. 4. Who or what is your inspiration? To be honest, from a young age till date I have been inspired by many people. It is hard to point out a particular person. My wife has played a huge role to keep me focused and has been supporting me morally throughout this journey. No doubt she is my biggest inspiration. Also, my mother, who has guided me towards this career.
A career photographer and graphic designer today, Narendra Bedekar began his journey in advertising as an Art Director in Muscat. With a passion for quality and precision, Naren - as he is popularly known, expanded on his love for photography after moving to New Zealand in 2003, becoming an award winning wedding photographer. In his own words, he loves to capture every occasion as it unfolds – the true emotions, real expressions, happiness and joy.
48 January 2014 | www.visionasia.co.nz
11. Favourite holiday destination (short & long) Panchgani & Mahabaleshwar 12. Favourite restaurant Urban Turban 13. Favourite sport & player Sports: Squash; Player: Sachin Tendulkar 14. What do you love or admire about New Zealand? This country has accepted me and my family wholeheartedly and is inspiring us to follow our dreams. 15. What outdoor activities do you like / how do you relax/what are your recreation techniques/methods? I like to go biking with my daughters when I get the time. Love to listen to Ghazals, especially Jagjit Singh and some old Marathi light music.
5. Your most memorable moment: Winning a Bronze award for wedding photography last year.
16. The craziest things you’ve ever done Traveled Pune – Kanyakumari –Pune on bicycle for 72 days.
6. How important is it to fail before you succeed. For me every failure is a step forward to success. It is learning and knowledge in itself which will help you progress further.
17. You wouldn’t be caught dead? Wearing a Safari Suit.
7. Name 3 important things in your life you can’t live without: Family, Friends and Facebook to connect with them.
19. What do you think is the secret to a good life? As Charles Swindoll quoted “...life is 10% what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it.” So be calm, never give too much importance to what has happened in the past and don’t worry too much about the things yet to happen or the situations you haven’t faced yet.
8. What do you value most in life? Be humble and honest. 9. Favourite movie & star Movie: Life is beautiful; Actor: Amitabh Bachchan 10. Favourite food No favourites, I just love food.
18. If your house was on fire & you could only grab 3 things what would they be? Camera, mobile and laptop.
20. Name one achievement that you are proud of? Working in my own business.
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