Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Good News For BTC students ( 2010 batch )

Good News For BTC students ( 2010 batch )

As it is necessary to have a BTC + TET certificate for primary teachers; BTC candidates of 2010 batch, will get the chance to appear in UPTET 2013 ( First Phase ) as the practical exams are over and the results will be declared very soon.
This time UPTET will be conducted by सचिव परीक्षा नियामक प्राधिकारी, एलनगंज, इलाहाबाद ; Last time in 2011 it was conducted by UP board and there was a big controversy with this exam, It was found that some ministers and officers were corrupted in the core council . However UP government have declared that the TET certificate of 2011 exam will be valid now .
And to ensure that this time, the same mistakes not to be repeated; This time UP board is not conducting the exam .
Sachiv Pariksha Niyamak Pradhikari, Allahabad office is concentrating on the following things:-
  • Ensuring that all the questions and options given below are correct .
  • QUESTION-papers/” >QUESTION paper codes and other settings are in a correct way .
  • To maintain the standard of the exam, this time the QUESTION-papers/” >QUESTION paper will be prepared by famous scholars .
  • Identifying any wrong or unnecessary data from the advertisement .

UPTET Application will be Online

Online applications will be invited for UPTET 2013; An official online portal will be launched by regulatory authority . This website/online portal will be enabled with the faculty to apply online for Uttar Pradesh Teacher eligibility Test .
It will ensure the safe delivery of your application form so its a good step by government .

UPTET Update 2013

According to leading newspaper Rashtriya Sahara; The notification of UPTET 2013 will be given in the first week of January .

Monday, December 17, 2012

Indian army stunned! Over 100 UFOs spotted by troops at Ladakh.

Photo © Photokore.com
In a spectacle that stunned Indian army officials along the China border in the northeast, over 100 unidentified flying objects (UFOs) have been reported over the last three months.
They report spotting yellow, non-metallic spheres lifting off from the distance, across the border on the Chinese frontier, slowly making their way across the sky for three to five hours at least till they disappeared as mysteriously as they appeared. The reports were sent to the Army Headquarters by an ITBP unit in Thakung near the Pangong Tso Lake.After close monitoring through a mobile ground-based radar unit and a spectrum analyser, they verified that the UFOs were not Chinese satellites or surveillance equipment.
Even about five to six years earlier, there have been UFO sightings by mountaineers in Spiti valley in the Himachal Pradesh and other areas.

He married his cousin - their baby had 6 legs!

Photo © Photokore.com


A couple from Sukkur City, Pakistan, who are cousins, gave birth to a baby with 6 legs. The baby was believed to have a parasitic twin who did not develop in the womb due to a rare genetic disorder.
A team of 5 doctors already performed an operation to remove his excess limbs. So far, he is doing good in the hospital but is still under observation. Tests like MRI, blood test , X-ray and CT scan were performed before the 8-hour operation. Due the uniqueness of the situation, it has attracted financial sponsorships from the government and other medical institutions. Imran Shaikh, the father is very grateful to those who helped in the successful operation of his baby.

Materials based on News.com.au

Sunday, December 9, 2012

Meet the hottest journalist you have ever seen

Photo © Photokore.com
Who says beauty and brains don’t mix? Prakash Jha’s next film Satyagraha will see the lethal combination come together in the form of Kareena Kapoor where she plays a journalist.
Right now Kareena looks her best ever. She is on a high in her career, love life and looks. In Satyagraha, Kareena plays a television journalist who goes on to become an iron willed head of state. She will share screen space with Amitabh Bachchan for the first time after 2004 where they were last seen in Govind Nihalani’s film Dev in which they were not together in a single scene. Ever since her sister Karisma broke up with Amitabh’s son Abhishek Bachchan, the two were never seen talking to each other, leaving alone act together. This spells a welcome change for their immense fan following. Satyagraha is planned to be released in August 15 next year.

(Based on In.msn.com)

Bride gets married without a groom

Photo © Dodo_anji, Flickr
Anyone who walked past Shyampur village in Orissa wouldn’t find anything unusual about the wedding celebrations held there recently.
The family dressed up in all wedding finery greeted guests warmly. Lavish arrangements were made with at least 1000 guests attending. A priest, relatives and friends of the bride made merry with full gusto. However, on closer look, you would find something amiss in the mass wedding celebration. There were two girls, beautifully turned out, but not a single groom stood there for them. For the villagers, it’s nothing unusual.
They have been celebrating this way for the last 31 years. It’s a festival called the Kumar Purnima, where young girls have a mock marriage to bless them with grooms as handsome and skilled as lord Kartik, in whose honour it is celebrated. The young girls pray to the sun and moon for marital happiness, wealth and joy. All wedding rites and rituals are performed to appease the lord and after the ceremonies are over, the go back to a regular life as unmarried girls, the way they were before.

Friday, December 7, 2012

Interview: I don’t need to compete with Salman Khan, says Akshay Kumar

By Hindustan Times
khiladi786still1.JPGThe inimitable Akshay Kumar shares anecdotes, talks about doing a Khiladi film with asin, and why you shouldn’t ask him to shoot at night.
Is there any pressure regarding Khiladi 786, given that it’s part of a successful franchise?
Akshay: I never feel any pressure about a film. What is meant to happen will happen. I have seen failure as well as success several times.
Why did it take 12 years to make another Khiladi film?
Akshay: Main action chhod chuka tha (I’d left action). I was focusing more on comedy and romance. Then, after Rowdy Rathore, I said I should return to action films.
You started with action. Is there any pressure returning to the genre?
Akshay: There’s no pressure. As a child, I loved climbing trees and jumping around. I enjoy the risk of bungee-jumping. I used to pay money to do it. Now, it’s the opposite. I get paid to do action.
How much does age matter?
Akshay: It hasn’t yet; maybe after five-six years it will. When my first Khiladi film came out (in 1992), she (Asin) was in the first standard! So, do you think age matters?
Asin, have you seen any of the previous Khiladi films?
Asin: I was little, so I don’t remember much about it. I do remember the songs and dance movements.
The film seems to be very colourful. Tell us about it.
Asin: It is a vibrant, fun movie. Akshay plays a very colourful Punjabi character. I play a Maharashtrian girl.
Akshay: She plays the peach, I play the brinjal!
Asin: If you think we are dressed colourfully, you should look at his family in the film. That’s colourful.
Akshay: (In the film) my dadi is from Africa. My chachi is from China. My mother is from London. Humara choron ka khandaan hai (it’s a family of thieves).
What’s the story behind the title Khiladi?
Akshay: The Khiladi title was given by Abbas-Mustan. It was my first hit film. And then, the media and audiences gave me the tag of Khiladi. The title stayed with me, and I quite enjoy it.
In the beginning, did you think of Khiladi as a franchise?
Akshay: I didn’t know what the word ‘franchise’ meant. I was doing films right, left and centre. At that point, I didn’t know it would become so big.
It was reported that you stopped doing action films after you became a father.
Akshay: Yes, when your son is small, you don’t want any kind of harm to happen to you. Now he (Aarav) is 10 years old and I’m fit enough to do some more years of action.
What does Aarav feel about you doing action films again?
Akshay: He is very proud that I do all my stunts on my own. He doesn’t like coming for a shoot if it’s just dialogues or a song sequence. He finds that boring, but if it is action, he likes to watch it.
Are you conscious about your choice of films, picking only what your own kid can watch?
Akshay: I make sure that my film is satellite-friendly. I’m happy that Khiladi 786 has got a U-certificate from the censor board.
Asin, what’s Akshay like on the sets. Is he very serious?
Asin: Serious and Akshay? During the promotions of Housefull 2, he stuffed stale parathas and fruits into my bag, and at a security check, I kept saying that I’m not carrying any food. Now that promotions have started for this, my antennae are on alert.
Akshay speaks Marathi very well. Did he help you prepare for your character?
Asin: I didn’t know that he spoke Marathi fluently until after the film was completed.
You speak a lot of languages.
Asin: About six-seven.
And you, Akshay?
Akshay: Sindhi, Gujarati, Marathi, Hindi, English...
Asin, you are associated with a lot of blockbusters. How seriously do you take numbers?
Asin: It means that that people have watched the movie and liked your work. Numbers are burdens for producers and makers of the film.
You joined the Rs. 100-crore club with Aamir Khan (Ghajini; 2008).
Asin: Founding member... keep donating to my membership! Jokes apart, I don’t take it seriously. The industry is growing, and in near future, the mark could be 200 or 300 crore.
Akshay, has the action in your films become more over-the-top?
Akshay: Rowdy Rathore was completely hand-to-hand combat. It had nothing to do with cables. But yes, technology has changed action quite a lot. It helps an actor do over-the-top things. This film (Khiladi 786) required action like that.
Akshay, you started working in the industry when film promotions were not that big a deal. How big a difference do they make?
Akshay: It’s very different now. There are so many more channels and newspapers now. And, thanks to piracy, we need to tell people to go to the theatre and watch the film.
Asin, you on the other hand saw promotions from the beginning.
Asin: Yes, Ghajini started the trend of crazy promotions and strategies. But it was new to me too. I was not used to this kind of stuff in the south Indian film industry. It was my first Bollywood experience, so I thought that’s how things work here. Now it’s become the norm. It’s even started in the south.
Have you bid farewell to the south Indian film industry?
Asin: I can never say goodbye to my parent industry. Because I was new to the Hindi film industry, I needed to focus a bit more. I’d definitely love to do a south film, but I need something exciting and different.
Are you doing any action in Khiladi?
Asin: I do have car chases. Being in a Khiladi film, you can’t escape doing that. But I’m not required to do as much action as the hero.
Akshay, are you competing with Salman Khan on the number of action films?
Akshay: I don’t need to do that. Waise bhi, meri saal mein paanch filme aa jaati hain (I have five releases in a year).
And now you’re producing films too.
Akshay: Yes, so I’m producing another five films. I’m a parallel film industry!
How involved do you get as a producer, in your films?
Akshay: I get very involved. I take a lot of interest in a film because it will come from my banner and I have some kind of social responsibility.
Do you specifically look to produce U-certificate films?
Akshay: It’s important for the films to be satellite-friendly. People should not have to shy away and change the channel.
You are working with a lot of newcomers – both directors and actors.
Akshay: I’ve been working with new directors since I came into this industry. Because the old directors didn’t want to take me.
You were quoted saying that Karan Johar does not want to cast you.
Akshay: I just said it masti mein (I said it in jest). But I did say it.
What do you do to keep fit?
Akshay: I start my day early, at around 4.30 am. I sleep by 9 pm. I eat my food on time, before sunset.
Asin: There is no equipment in his gym, just rings, parallel bars and mountain-climbing setups. He literally monkeys around.
Akshay: Human beings are made like that. We were more agile when we were young, when used to climb our neighbour’s trees. As we grow old, we forget that. I came back to my old routine.
It must be hard to maintain a strict regimen when you travel and shoot so much?
Akshay: No, it’s the simplest thing. People make it sound complicated. It’s just four films in a year. One film takes 60 days. So, there’s around 125 days to relax. I don’t work on Sundays. I work from 7 am to 2 pm on Saturdays. I work for eight hours a day, after which, whether it’s my film or someone else’s, I go home.
How do you do night shoots then?
Akshay: I try to avoid them. If anyone tells me a story that goes ‘Picture shuru hoti hai raat me (the film starts at night)’, I say ‘Chal, baad mein (we’ll see later)’. My father would say, ‘Sirf ullu jaagte hain raat mein (only owls are up at night)’.
— Transcribed by Vishal Manve
Spiked!
Tell us about the shoes you are wearing.
Akshay: It’s a 12-number shoe... the size of a one-bedroom apartment in Mumbai (laughs). Footballers and cricketers have spikes on their soles. We came up with the idea of having spikes on top. We got them made in New York and they cost about R2.5 lakh.
Who designed it?
Asin: Christian Louboutin.

Priyanka Chopra named world's sexiest Asian woman!

priyankachoprahot.jpgBollywood superstar Priyanka Chopra has won the Worlds Sexiest Asian Woman crown, according to an on-line survey conducted by a weekly magazine.
Priyanka, 30, defeated reigning champion Kareena Kapoor and three-times winner Katrina Kaif to claim the crown of sexiest Asian woman on the planet this year.
"Priyanka Chopra secured top spot with Kareena Kapoor coming second and Katrina Kaif third," Asian weekly Eastern Eye said.
A permanent fixture in the top three in recent years, the beauty queen turned A-list Bollywood star beat off very tough competition from some of the most stunning women from around the world.
"It has rounded off a dream year for Priyanka, which included a starring role in super-hit film Agneepath, delivering a superb performance in India's official entry to the Oscars, Barfi and launching an international pop career alongside chart-topping singer Will.i.am," the release added.
Clearly delighted with the win, Priyanka said: "I'm hugely flattered. Who wouldn't want to have a title like this bestowed on them! A big shout out to everyone who voted for me."
Eastern Eye showbiz editor Asjad Nazir, who annually puts together the popular list and is chairman of the judging panel believes a dream year will give Priyanka the perfect platform to possibly becoming a Hollywood star in 2013.
"The sheer diversity of the projects that Priyanka did in 2012 combined with her close connection to fans online worked in her favour and added to her already impressive fan base. That is why she was able to beat off pop stars, TV personalities, models and fellow film stars," said Asjad.

By Hindustan times

Katrina Kaif chooses family over Rs. 5 crore!

By Hindustan Times
katrinakaifhotdance.jpgShe might not have won too many accolades for her film roles, but Katrina Kaif has delivered some of the biggest hits when it comes to dance numbers. Tracks like Sheila Ki Jawaani from Tees Maar Khan (2010) and Chikni Chameli from this year’s Agneepath have established her as a dancing icon in Bollywood. As a result, her demand for stage shows and performances is soaring.
However, on December 31, the day when most actors are busy performing at such shows, Katrina has decided to take a break. This year, she received over eight offers for New Year’s Eve events. However, she has turned them all down.
“Katrina never performs on December 31. That is her rule. Every year, she spends the time from Christmas till New Year with her family. Even this year, three organisers from five-star hotels have offered her Rs. 5 crore each, and four others have offered her gigs worth Rs. 4.75 crore each. But she has refused all of them,” says a source.
The actor is expected to fly to London in two weeks to celebrate Christmas and New Year with her sisters, brother and mother. But the shooting schedule of Dhoom:3 might spoil her plans a bit.
The source adds, “The shoot is scheduled from December 11 or 12 in Mumbai and is supposed to last a month. But the dates aren’t locked yet, so we can expect some changes. This time around, her family might have to fly to India as Katrina’s plans aren’t confirmed. Things will be clearer close to Christmas, but she will definitely be with her family to ring in the New Year.”

India is great : 56 year old woman fights off a wolf.

India is great : 56 year old woman fights off a wolf.: A 56 year old Russian woman has fought off a wolf with an axe… Aishat Maksudova, was alone repairing a fence when a lone wolf attacked...

Tweets land man in jail

Photo © Photokore.com
The war between the Indian government and candid youngsters continue. In the process, freedom of expression is put behind bars. First a cartoonist lands in jail for his views of government corruption. Now a businessman from Tamil Nadu, Ravi, is arrested. His crime? Posting tweets questioning Karti Chidambaram’s wealth. Son of India’s well known finance minister, Chidambaram, the junior Karti Chidambaram, found the tweets “offensive” and had him handcuffed. The tweeter was later released on bail.
India is currently the fastest growing Internet market in the world with over 125 million users. The government has often attempted to clamp down on social media and websites for “defaming content against government officials” by urging search engines to screen information causing furor and disapproval among many.
However, Ravi found several supporters one of who tweeted wryly that he never knew that speaking the truth in India is now a crime.

Racist job ad says ‘No Indians or Asians allowed’

Photo © Photokore.com
An online outrage ballooned after a supermarket chain in Australia posted a job opening with an outright racist tag.
‘No Indians or Asians please. Must speak English,’ is read on the online job ad of one of Australia’s biggest supermarket chain, Coles. The spokesperson of the said supermarket says that the job ad was done by a contractor and has already been removed. He reiterated that Coles is a company of equal opportunity and does not discriminate any race in employee hiring.Gumtree.com, the online job posting site where the ad was published might be subject to legal implications as it is strictly unlawful to isolate particular races in looking for job candidates.

(Materials based on Ndtv.com)

Family heirlooms changing fortunes in India

Photo © 123rf.com
Gold hidden away in lockers for generations are now fetching rural people fortunes. Selling heavy bangles, necklaces and earrings are helping farmers tide by in these tough times.
Others are relying on the recycling trade to polish up their heirlooms in an effort to make some money from them. The potential for recycling gold in India is phenomenal. 1.2 billion people are estimated to have stored about 20,000 tonnes of gold in the form of jewellery, coins and bars, according to the World Gold Council. That makes it three times the holdings of the U.S. Federeal Reserve.
It is estimated that the supply of recycled gold in India will hit 300 tonnes in 2012. This is five times more than 2011 and the highest in a decade. As people bring out their heirlooms, the refining and polishing industry also records an all time high.

(Based on Zdnet.com)

Thursday, December 6, 2012

India grinds to a halt

Photo © Photokore.com
India witnessed a nationwide strike yesterday. Stores pulled down their shutters. Railway lines and national highways are blocked leaving thousands of passengers stranded. Shopkeepers, traders, laborers are all united in protest with the opposition parties against the Prime Minister’s latest retail reforms on two prime issues- to allow foreign superstore chains such as Wal-Mart and Tesco to set up base in India and the sharp price hike on diesel.
The ruling party has argued that the effort is to revive the sluggish economy to herald a consumer revolution. This move, they said, promised to create new jobs and offer a choice for local consumers.
However, the decision was met with universal protests from both the opposition parties and trade unions who called for the strike. Policemen in the thousands have been deployed in Kolkata to prevent violence. The worst is yet to come as large rallies are planned later in the day in New Delhi and other cities. Private schools have also been shut down although government schools and offices remain open. It is estimated that at least 50 million people will participate in the rally against the retail reforms which are feared to topple over several smaller local businesses, neighborhood stores and lead to drastic job losses. Only Mumbai remains largely unaffected as the government did not support the strike

. (Based on Khaleejtimes.com

56 year old woman fights off a wolf.

A 56 year old Russian woman has fought off a wolf with an axe…

Aishat Maksudova, was alone repairing a fence when a lone wolf attacked her. Maksudova shouted out for help but no villagers were withing earshot. After a struggle with the wolf who attacked her leg and arm, she managed to grab an axe lying on the floor and fight off the wolf, hitting it repeatedly over the head with the axe. The wolf eventually collapsed and later died. She sustained injuries to her arm and leg and is recuperating in hospital, meanwhile she has become somewhat of a local hero in her province and now the news of her courage and strength is spreading worldwide, leaving all of us amazed!

(Based on Huffington Post))

Court disallows top actor to sell his ‘hit-and-run’ car

Photo ©salmancruiser-andrymanwanto.com
The Bandra Metropolitan court rejected an application sent by Salman Khan to sell his Toyota Land Cruiser car that was involved in a hit-and-run accident on September 28, 2002 killed a 70 year old woman and injured four others. The reason cited was that the case and trial is still not over and the car serves as evidence.
The car had rammed into a bakery in the suburbs of Bandra at night. The victims were sleeping on the pavement at the time. The court framed charges against Khan for culpable homicide not amounting to murder since it was an unintentional accident. The car belonged to his brother Sohail Khan who was not with him at the time. His driver was said to be behind the wheel then. The victim was sleeping on the roadside, covered in a black rag that the driver mistook to be a black polythene bag in the dim night light and ran over her and a few others, injuring them seriously.The victim’s family at first harassed the actor for compensation which he declined after he learnt that the old lady was disowned by the family.
The trial started in 2005 and still continues.

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

6 natural skin care tips for winter




skin care1. Take an oil bath
 

Ayurveda prescribes something known as the Abhyanga Massage. Basically, you must rub oil on your body and leave it for at least 30 minutes so that it can be absorbed by the skin. This full body massage helps to improve blood circulation, makes your skin supple and calms and relaxes your mind. Coconut oil and apricot oil are considered to be best for the Abhyanga Massage, but you can use any other oil too.

 

2. Avoid use of hot water

skin careHot water bath, though irresistible during winter, is best avoided. It strips your skin of natural oils and can cause itchiness and redness of the skin. That is why; you must go for lukewarm water while taking a bath.






3. Stay away from soap

skin care
Soap has a drying effect on the skin and tends to disturb the PH balance in the skin. So replace your carbolic soaps with gentle moisturizing ones. Choose your soap according to your skin type, and if possible replace it with a nourishing Ayurvedic body wash. After bathing, you should also rub aloe vera gel on your body to keep it moist and soft.

4. Gorge on the Greens

   Vegetables which have high water content are essential during winter. They help you digest food soon and cleanse your system too. So include green vegetables as well as carrots, lettuce, cucumber and lemon in your diet.

 

 

 

 

5. Healthy Fats

skin care
The most significant factor of Vata dosha is that it dries up your skin. But you can fight the dryness by supplementing your diet with healthy fats. Healthy fats include Omega 3 fatty acids, mono saturated fats and poly saturated fats which are plentiful in nuts, soya bean, tofu, olives, and olive oil and so on. Include these foods in your lunch, as the Vata dosha can be prominently seen during afternoon.

6. Take in Liquids

skin care
As explained earlier, your body needs to be hydrated during winter to prevent the vata dosha from prevailing. You can do this by taking in warm liquids at regular intervals. Green tea and masala chai with a dash of lemon and ginger are recommended for winter. They will make you skin radiate and glow from winter and also provide your body with the necessary moisture. Avoid caffeine during winter as it has drying effects on your skin

 

 



Secret celebrity getaways

From Necker Island to Jaipur’s Oberoi Rajvilas, here are 7 escapes the stars love
Ever wondered where the paparazzi-plagued celebrities run to when they want to escape prying eyes and the constant scrutiny of shutterbugs. Here are seven fantastic hideaways frequented by celebs, which are well worth visiting.
Where: Necker Island, British Virgin Islands
Who: Richard Branson, Mel Gibson, Oprah Winfrey, Harrison Ford, Steven Spielberg
Why: Spend a starry night under the open skies on the idyllic private paradise ­called Necker Island. Bought by Sir Richard Branson in 1978 and converted into a private retreat, the island was available for exclusive hire in 1984.  There are six Balinese style houses and one Temple House, which enjoys a perfect location in the centre of the island and offers fantastic views.  Don’t miss staying aboard a 32-metre (105ft) luxury catamaran, Necker Belle, which features four cabins with breathtaking ocean views.
Necker Island, British Virgin Islands (+44 0 208 600 0430; www.neckerisland.virgin.com)From approximately Rs  15 lakh for a minimum stay of 7 nights
Where:The Wakaya Club, Fiji
Who: Nicole Kidman, Penélope Cruz, Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes
Why: A visit to this private island is an experience in itself. Tucked away amongst Fiji’s 333 islands, this intensely private coral-encircled gem offers 10 super-luxurious residences. The island is an ideal spot for those looking to relax on the beach with intimate picnics, tennis games and spa treatments. Opt to dine under a charming gazebo-like shelter on a deck surrounded by a pool.
The Wakaya Club,Suva, Fiji Islands (+679-3448-128; www.wakaya.com) Rs 1,06,657
Where: The Royal Palm Resort, Ecuador
Why: Located in the beautiful Galapagos Islands, the delightful Royal Palms Hotel lands you right in the lap of nature. Surrounded by 500 acres of lush, tropical forests, the hotel provides privacy and is an excellent option for the discrete traveller.  Guests have the option of choosing from 10 Villas and four Veranda Studios with spacious double bedrooms, a Jacuzzi and a lovely tropical garden. The service is efficient with a staff-to-guest ratio of 12 to 1 per couple.
The Royal Palm Resort, Km 18 vía Baltra, Santa Cruz Island, Galápagos, Ecuador(+593 2 25 20 000; www.royalpalmgalapagos.com) Doubles from Rs 23,857
Where: Taj Exotica, India
Who: Aishwarya Rai, Abhishek Bachchan, Amitabh Bachchan
Why: Overlooking the spectacular Arabian Sea, the Mediterranean-style Taj Exotica features impressive landscaped gardens, a 9-hole golf course, two tennis courts and five restaurants. The elegant and well-furnished rooms and suites are spacious and cosy.  Be sure to book yourself into the Sea View Villa, which provides striking sea views or the gorgeous Sea View Pool Villa, which has a private pool.
The Getaway Taj Exotica, Benaulim, Goa, India (91-0832 6683333; www.tajhotels.com) Doubles from Rs 8,000
Where: The Gstaad Palace, Switzerland
Who: Kareena Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan, Robbie Williams, Paris Hilton
Why: Check into the 99-year old hotel nestled in the serene Swiss Alps; you never know who you may bump into. Built in 1913, the glorious Gstaad Palace has 104 beautifully furnished rooms, including 19 Junior Suites and a splendid three-bedroom Penthouse Suite, which comprises a dining room, living room, kitchen, a terrace as well as a private sauna and Jacuzzi. In addition, five gourmet restaurants cater to every need of the palate and a night of dancing is a must at the famous GreenGo nightclub.
Royal Hotel Winter & Gstaad Palace AG Palacestrasse, CH-3780, Gstaad, Switzerland (+41 33 748 50 00/+41 33 748 50 00; www.palace.ch) Doubles from Rs 24,234
        

Hotel of Doom, 25 years of construction and still counting

Hotel of Doom, 25 years of construction and still counting It's been 25 years, North Korea's construction of Ryugyong Hotel is still in progress. They're saying that it was set to open in 2010 which didn’t happen. With the news that it is opening soon, the hotel, otherwise known as the 'Hotel of Doom' is far from being ready.

The North Korean government has started the construction of the supposed 105-storey hotel 25 years ago. It was said that this is intended to stand as a symbol of power and prosperity for the North Korean government. A few photos were snapped and published showing the interiors of the hotel. No cables, wiring and proper floorings were evident and it looks like it is still too far from its formal opening. Perhaps the government is still waiting for the time when they can indeed tell the world what the building wants to symbolize - power and prosperity.

(Materials based on Inquisitr.com)


Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Check your cheeks to prevent heart attacks


Check your cheeks to prevent heart attacksWith heart diseases on the rise in India, 12% of the population affected by cardiovascular diseases, the medical fraternity thinks it imperative that people get more familiar about precautions and identifying symptoms before it’s too late.
Now an accurate reading of a person’s heart can be acquired through a new device in Bangalore by analyzing DNA from saliva and cheek cells. The device called Jai Heart was launched by Jai Health, is the first of its kind that offers analysis results through gene detection. It was developed specifically for Indians, South-East Asians and Middle Eastern people, all of whom are said to be genetically prone to heart related problems.
The device can make an estimate when cholesterol checks, blood pressure, blood sugar and ECG fail to detect too, as is the case sometimes. Since more and more Indians are falling victims at an earlier age with 25% patients under 40 years of age, this device promises to make a breakthrough difference in curbing the disease. Lifestyle and health changes can be made after the reports at the earliest to lessen risk factors.


Indians obsessed with fair skin, light eyes, grumbles dusky star

Photo © 123rf.com


Sameera Reddy, the dusky beauty from down South with a fading Bollywood career seems a bit piqued.
She grumbles that Indians are obsessed with a sense of beauty, implying that doesn’t leave much chance for those like her to score high in the film industry. It’s the cliched North Indian notion of light skin, light eyes, straight hair and slim figure, reminiscent of Kareena Kapoor, Aishwarya Rai etc. She feels its time people moved away from the mindset that dusky, voluptuous, dark eyed women are not as beautiful.
Sameera said that she thinks beauty in the traditional Indian woman is essentially warm skin tone (dusky), dark eyes with a bit of ‘oomph’ (curves). She takes the example of actress Madhuri Dixit. “When she smiles, there is nobody who can match her.” She also mentioned Kajol and from the newer lot Kareena, who she admits definitely has that “X factor." Sameera will be soon seen in a cameo in Prakash Jha’s ‘Chakravyuh’.


(Based on Msn.com)

Engineering students wheel in the future

Photo © Photokore.com
At an inter-college design competition held by the SAE India (Society for Automobile Engineering) at Chandigarh, engineering students from Muffakham Jah College of Engineering & Technology stood first in the Andhra Pradesh contest, securing eight positions in India for a technological breakthrough. They designed a battery-powered rickshaw.
The competition requirement was to design and create an energy-efficient human powered three wheeled electric vehicle, advertised through a website. The college faculty formed a team of eight enthusiastic students who created the rickshaw through funds provided by the college.
About 140 colleges participated from all over India out of which 65 were shortlisted. It’s a regular rickshaw which two people could ride together, fitted with paddles with an additional eco-friendly battery run motor that could aid older or fatigued out riders to proceed with ease. The rickshaw that is on display at the college campus is now being modified to run on solar energy.

God goes online

Photo biharscoop.com

©

Those who did not have a pandal nearby to celebrate Durga Puja or were reluctant to walk through the crowded streets for ‘darshan’ this year didn’t miss a thing.
They simply went electronic. Website designing companies connected to the CCTV cameras of pandals in Ranchi and Dhanbad the state of Bihar, allowing live broadcast to those who were deprived of the puja experience. From October 21 www.puja.dhanbadonline.com went live allowing devotees glimpses of not one, but about ten pandals in the city. The website also offered interactive competitions such as the best pandal, best lighting, best management, followed by a photography contest on the “festive mood” theme. Voting is open till the end of October and awards will be distributed on November 5. Later, Diwali and Chhath celebrations will also be telecast live through this portal.
In the Steel City of Jamshedpur, it was Apostle Technologies and Kendriya Durga Puja Committee (KDPC) who allowed the same through their website www.jamshedpurpuja.com The portal also offered relevant information on the pujas committees, complete with maps and other details. Other sites beyond Bihar provided “e-anjali” and “e-aarti” where flowers and prayers could be offered online to digital images.

Monday, December 3, 2012

I like to be a trendsetter: Paris Hilton


Paris Hilton is loving every bit of her second visit to India

Have you been to India before? This is my second trip to India, I have been to Mumbai before and I had a really great time. This is my first time in Goa. It is so beautiful and relaxing. I can't wait to go ride an elephant, go see the spice gardens and the spice markets. I want to go to the beach, go parasailing and go see the caves, and just see all of the different architecture and the beautiful beaches. There is so much to see here and I want to see as much as I can.
What is that one thing that differentiates India from the rest of the world? I love India. I think it's a very special place. It's very magical and definitely one of the most spiritual places on earth. It is just so different, I have travelled all around the world and there is nowhere like India.
What is your passion - acting, designing or DJing? I love everything I do. The most challenging of everything is the business side. Being a business woman and running 17 different product lines and brands is a lot of work. I'm constantly travelling and having to be there 100% for all of my different projects. It is a lot of work, but it is worth it because I love it and I am so proud of everything that I have accomplished. I look forward to doing more!
Does your work reflect your personal fashion taste? My creative style is just the same as my own personal style. I like to design all of my product lines and make sure that people know it is something I would wear.
What is your fashion statement? My fashion statement is to take risks and have fun with fashion. I like to be a trendsetter, and not just follow what is popular.
What is the season's style statement? This season's style statement is all about being confident and wearing bright colours.
Which is your favourite? I love hot neon pink and also turquoise. And my personal favourite is neon pink and neon yellow, because they really stand out.
How do you describe your creativity, style, and how is it different or not from yourself? My work always reflects my personal fashion taste. I am a very unique person; I love to have fun, especially with my style. I would describe my style as very fashion forward, unique, fun, cute, fashionable and hot. I have always loved to dress up, and that is why I am so excited to be here for fashion week.
What do you have to say about fashion and music? I believe that fashion and |music are very intertwined. They inspire each other. You can't have fashion without music, like in the runway shows. And I think that when you listen to music it inspires your fashion, so I think they really work great together.
What is the other thing you would do if not designing, acting or DJing? If I wasn't designing, acting or a business woman, I would be a school teacher, because I love kids. Or I would be a veterinarian, because I love animals.

Aamir Khan hits the brakes again!

aamirkhanacc4.jpgMUMBAI, Nov. 3 -- It's not the first time that the making of Dhoom:3 is has been delayed because of Aamir Khan. The actor has pushed back his shooting dates for this film so he can focus on the backlog of his other assignments.
As a result, the Vijay Krishna Acharya-directed film (he wrote Dhoom and Dhoom 2), will resume shooting with Aamir only next year. An insider from the production house says, "Aamir will resume shooting for Dhoom:3 in March next year."
Aamir recently completed a month-long schedule for the film in Chicago with Abhishek Bachchan and Uday Chopra. Even Katrina Kaif had joined them for he last few days. After that, Aamir had taken his mother on Haj for 11 days. In the past, the actor has delayed the film to focus on his TV debut, Satyamev Jayate, which aired earlier this year, and his forthcoming film, Talaash.
Now, he's taking some time off from Dhoom:3 to concentrate on promoting Talaash till its release on November 30. He also plans to begin shooting for Rajkumar Hirani's P.K. with his 3 Idiots (2009) co-stars, R Madhavan and Sharman Joshi.
Meanwhile, Aamir's absence isn't likely to bring Dhoom:3's shooting to a complete halt. The makers will be busy with other portions of the film, which are far from completion. "Katrina will be shooting some of her parts in December. She will have a 10-day schedule in Mumbai, where she will be shooting some acrobatic stunts since she plays a gymnast in the movie," says the source. We tried contacting the banner, Yash Raj Films, but they chose not to comment.

(Based on Hindustam times)

Mobile phone helps man track his stolen car

Photo © Photokore.com


Here’s a good reason to hold on to your Blackberry or buy one. When a 28 year old model’s Mitsubishi Pajero car got stolen, his bb did what the police couldn’t. It helped him track it down within 12 hours.
Saif Sidiqqui had driven off to meet his friend at Laxmi Niwas. On his return he found to his shock that the car was missing. He immediately proceeded to the police to lodge an FIR. The police noted the complaint and warned him that a Pajero is always vulnerable to theft since it can be easily unlocked even with the keys of a Fiat. It is in fact rarely recovered since they have good resale value. Following this information, Saif sent out a BB update as a last resort, alerting his 300 friends. His contacts in turn shared the message to let the word be known.
Around noon the next day, a stranger responded to his message saying that he had seen such a car that matched the description in his locality in Andheri West. Saif rushed to the spot and to his utter surprise, found his Pajero waiting for him there, after which he broke down in disbelief.

(Based on Ndtv.com )

Justin Bieber, Selena Gomez miss family dinner and sneak off for date



Selena Gomez and pop icon Justin Bieberwere in a relationship since 2011 and eventually became a teen power couple.
Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez chose to indulge in arcade games in Times Square and miss out on a dinner organized by the Bab
But the teen couple indulged in PG-rated fun and “played a bunch of games,” including car-racing as well as a shooting competition, and even took a spin on Dave and Busters’ indoor roller coaster, the paper said.
According to sources, the couple later took off for the Trump SoHo Hotel, where both were said to be staying.
y hitmaker’s family at Philippe on the Upper East Side, after his sold-out concert at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday night. A source said that guests at the dinner included the Bieber’s grandparents, his sister and about 30 friends, the New York Post reported.

MORE ON THE YOUNG COUPLE
Justin Bieber 'crazy about Selena Gomez, does whatever she says'
Justin Bieber, who makes girls around the globe swoon over him, is crazy in love with his on-and-off girlfriend Selena Gomez, a source has claimed.
According to the source, while the teen heartthrob is head over heels with his singer-actress galpal, his management is “totally over it” and want the ‘Boyfriend’ crooner to fall out from Gomez’s spell. HENPECKED BOYFRIEND?


Hindustan Times

Sunday, December 2, 2012

North Korea says it will launch long-range rocket soon

EOUL: North Korea announced on Saturday that it would attempt to launch a long-range rocket in mid-December, a defiant move just eight months after a failed April bid was widely condemned as a violation of a UN ban against developing its nuclear and missile programs.

The launch, set for Dec. 10 to 22, is likely to heighten already strained tensions with Washington and Seoul as the United States prepares for Barack Obama's second term as US president and South Korea holds its own presidential election on Dec. 19.

This would be North Korea's second launch attempt under leader Kim Jong Un, who took power following his father Kim Jong Il's death nearly a year ago. The announcement by North Korea's space agency followed speculation overseas about stepped-up activity at North Korea's west coast launch pad captured in satellite imagery. 


   Based on  timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Saturday, December 1, 2012

Punjab entrepreneur sets up 10-storey building in Mohali in 48 hours

MOHALI (Punjab): It was a promise delivered floor by floor. In just 48 hours, an entrepreneur has constructed a 10-storey building in this suburban town in Punjab.

The red and grey facade building, Instacon, stood tall on an industrial plot in Mohali, 10 km from Chandigarh, Saturday, two days after Punjab deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal had laid its foundation stone.

Work on the building's construction started around 4.30 pm Thursday. By Friday evening, the building saw seven floors in place.

As the deadline of 48 hours approached, all the 10 storeys of the building were in place even though the glass-panes on the windows and other fittings inside were still being put by the workers and engineers.

The building used pre-fabricated material, including 200 tonnes of steel.

"Our effort was to put the 10-storeyed structure in place within 48 hours. We wanted to prove that this could be done. That feat was achieved well within 48 hours. Just some finishing touches remain. This is only a sample structure," an official of Synergy Thrislington infrastructure company told IANS at the site.

Entrepreneur Harpal Singh, who heads the Rs.1,000-crore infrastructure company, had promised that the 10-storey building would be completed within 48 hours.

"This will be the first building of its kind in the country to be built in just 48 hours. The model has been cleared for Zone-V seismic area, the highest risk area (for earthquakes)," Harpal Singh, who owns the JW Marriot Hotel in Chandigarh, said here earlier.

Three floors of the building were constructed in just six hours Thursday.

Over 200 skilled workers, technicians, engineers and equipment were engaged in the building construction.

The material being used was manufactured in the past two months in a nearby factory.

"No bricks and sand has been used. The outer wall is a double-skinned PUF panel. The cost is almost the same as of conventional construction material. It saves a lot of time that goes into construction otherwise," said officials at the site.

Harpal Singh said that the idea to construct such a building came to him when he was constructing his own house, which took two years to complete - thanks to truant workers.

Singh's company, Synergy, took over Britain-based Thrislington Products, a re-locatable steel partition manufacturer, to set up the new infrastructure company here.


Based on timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Bill Clinton’s security comes to Salman’s rescue!

Photo © Stockvault.com


Salman Khan is truly a star! If what we’ve heard is true, the former US president Bill Clinton, took responsibility of looking after Salman while the later was busy shooting for his upcoming film, “Ek Tha Tiger” in Dublin.
It so happened that while Salman was in Dublin shooting, Bill Clinton happened to visit the city. Both were allotted rooms on the same floor in a hotel. Salman as we know, is worldwide famous. His fans are spread across the world. What actually happened was, at odd hours, a few of Sallu’s hardcore fans tried forcing their way just to get a glimpse of the actor. Seeing this, Clinton’s staff was stunned and came to Sallu’s rescue. It didn’t end there. The staff also took charge of Salman’s security for the three days he was in Dublin. “I was staying on the same floor and to sanitize the area, they had to take care of Salman’s personal security too. It was amazing,”said director of Ek Tha Tiger Kabir Khan. Salman Khan is truly a star!

Rihanna splashing on diamonds for next year’s world tour

rihanna.jpg
By Hindustan Times


Rihanna is heavily increasing the budget of her next world tour by shelling out on diamond bracelets, it has been revealed. The 24-year-old singer has bought a load to give to VIPs so they have an unforgettable experience. The Umbrella hit maker has also ordered a diamond-encrusted microphone and mic stand for the shows.
“She’s been offering to pay for the diamonds out of her own pocket because management weren’t keen,” the Sun quoted a source as saying.
“She just wants everyone who goes to the gigs to be totally overwhelmed,” the source added.

Miranda Kerr voted sexiest woman on earth!

http://www.bollywood.com/files/images/images/mirandakerr.nodedisplay.jpeg
Men's mag Esquire has named Aussie supermodel Miranda Kerr as the Sexiest Woman Alive for 2012.

The 28-year-old, who has a son with husband Orlando Bloom, has topped a list compiled by the Australian magazine and celebrated the accolade by posing for the publication with her 15-month-old son, Femalefirst reported.
And as with all of these sexy shoots she's also spoken about embracing her body and the fact that she's a bit of a tomboy.
"I believe in celebrating the female figure and embracing what we've been given, not hiding that," she told the publication.
"I spent my childhood outdoors on my grandparents' farm. I learned to ride a motorbike when I was about six, a little PeeWee 50.
"I'd climb trees - there was a big weeping willow. We had a flying fox [a zip-line]. I was so fortunate to grow up like that.
She added: 'I really feel that my body craves to be in the mountains or by the ocean or in the countryside. I still like to climb the odd tree. Yeah, it's fun! I like to climb. I find it very rewarding.


By Hindustan Times



VOTE NOW: Katrina Kaif or Kareena Kapoor: Who's the ultimate seductress?

actresscollage.JPGMashallah! These faces have been proving their mettle for more than a decade in the film industry. They have over time emerged as a sex symbols in their own way.
We are talking about Bollywood actresses who are ruling the industry not only with their talent and beauty but also their sensuality. Kareena Kapoor comes first in the mind, while making this list. She is currently making waves with her raunchy number Halkat Jawani. Be it Pooja of Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham, Kaurwaki of Asoka or her portrayals in Chameli and Tashan, Bebo has upped the sensuality quotient in B-Town. She gave Malaikas and Mallikas of Bollywood a run for their money in Chammak Challo too.
Katrina Kaif is slowly but steadily riding the glamour ladder. Though she started out with a bold role in Boom, she turned into a sweet girl later with films like Namaste London and Singh is Kingg. Kat was formally anointed as a sex symbol with Sheila Ki Jawani (Tees Maar Khan). She had shown promise in Zara Zara Touch Me (Race). Then came Chikni Chameli and Katrina was at her best again. With the success of her film Ek Tha Tiger and the track Mashallah! topping the chartbusters, Katrina is on another high.
Aishwarya Rai might be on a break from Bollywood post motherhood, but her previous achievements qualify her as a sex symbol. She broke her pretty doll image with Shabd, her eyes did the trick in Umrao Jaan and her Kajrare was an ultimate gamechanger. Her bold kissing sequence with Hrithik Roshan in Dhoom 3 and her bindaas performance in Chokher Bali helped her reach there.
And who can forget Vidya Balan who went 'dirty' for a film and still walked away with a National award. In fact she displayed her bold side in her debut film Parineeta. Her lovemaking sequences with Saif Ali Khan and Sanjay Dutt in the film were high on steamy quotient. Guru, Salman-e-Ishq, Ishqiya further accentuated her bold image.
We have some other names too! Bipasha Basu's Jism is probably the Raaz of her success. The lady seduces in Raaz 3 like never before. The bongshell first tasted success with Raaz, opposite Dino Morea. The film is as much known for its horror quotient as its steamy scenes. The portrayal of Sonia Khanna in Jism established her as a sex symbol in the industry. Madhoshi, Omkara, Race, Bachna Ae Haseeno and Players are some of the other films that helped entrech her sensual image in Bollywood.
Priyanka Chopra's chemistry with Akshay Kumar was crackling to say the least in Andaaz. Her body language conveyed she would continue with her bold ways in her subsequent films. She dared to play a negative role of a seductress in Aitraaz. She looked tailor-made for the role. Her 'Fashion' sense got her not only a national award but also a siginificant place in showtown.
Who's the hottest of 'em all. Take a poll and tell us what your think:
VoteView ResultsPolldaddy.com

TRAILER: Imran, Anushka in Matru Ki Bijli Ka Mandola

matrukibijli.jpgWith little buzz around Matru Ki Bijli Ka Mandola, Vishal Bhardwaj's next directorial venture, the trailer of the movie has hit the web.
Wondering what the title is all about? Imran plays Matru, Anushka is Bijli and Pankaj Kapur plays Mandola. There's a gulabi bhains too at the end of the trailer.
Touted as a comedy film, Matru... presents Imran Khan in an all-new rugged avatar.







The new look is not a secret though. The actor has been making appearances sporting the look for a long time now. So far, this seems to be his first performance-oriented role.
Anushka Sharma plays the role of Bijli and dances like one. She has the energy and she has the charm.
Pankaj Kapur as Mandola is spontaneous and fun.

(Based on Hindustan times)

Friday, November 30, 2012

Deepika performed a high risk stunt!

deepikapadukoneacc.jpgDeepika Padukone performed a high risk stunt scene herself for her upcoming movie directed by Abbas-Mustan, refusing to use a body double to do the dangerous car sequence.
The scene required the actor to drive a car through heavy traffic with one of the doors open. Paying no heed to producer Ramesh Taurani’s advice to use a double, she practised for almost 18 hours to get the shot right.

By Hindustan Times

Kareena: Shopping in Dubai!

kareenakapooracc.jpgMUMBAI, Nov. 9 -- For Prakash Jha's Satyagraha, Kareena Kapoor plans to shop personally for her role of a journalist in the film.
So our well-placed sources tell us that in December, she is flying off to Dubai, accompanied by her personal stylist Priyanka, to shop for clothes like the ones that are generally worn by the real-life journalists.
Interestingly, it will be Bebo's first film after her marriage to Saif Ali Khan.

+++Based on Hindustan Times 

Thursday, November 29, 2012

New Cadbury's chocolates that don’t melt in your mouth

Photo ©treehugger.com


Cadbury’s in the UK have developed a unique new range of chocolates perfect for countries with warm weather such as India and Brazil. These chocolates that can withstand up to 40 deg celcius weather without melting. Regular chocolates melt even in warm temperature ranging 30 to 34 degrees celcius. However these bars remain solid and don’t quite melt easily in the mouth the way the others do.
The secret lies in the way they are made with metal beads that grind the cocoa butter, vegetable oils, milk and sugar particles into smaller pieces with reduced fat coating to make them more heat resistant. The method is called conching, Cadbury scientists have reportedly said. They have been specially designed to be temperature tolerant in countries with sharply fluctuating temperature. Whether they would taste as good as the regular, softer bars is a matter of debate.

Look out! Businessman will build a 10-storey building in just two days.

Photo ©matternetwork.com

Punjab Deputy Chief Minister, Sukhbir Singh Badal will soon lay the foundation stone of a 10-storey building, INSTACON. The project has been assigned to Harpal Singh of Chandigarh, who claims he can build the building in just two days. The building will be built in the Industrial Area Phase I of Mohali town, close to Chandigarh city. If he can achieve this feat, it will be a national record and the first of its kind in the country. He plans to use a new construction technology that can speed up the construction of commercial complexes, high rise buildings and even universities and hospitals, reducing waiting time by years and months. He says that all the fixtures and components are built and ready to be installed, including pre-fitted doors, wires, water supply and bathroom fittings etc. All that needs to be done is transport them to the site and assemble them for installation.
A number of architects, engineers and others have been invited to witness this revolutionary construction.

(Based on Ndtv.com)

Cigarettes can make your memory go up in smoke

Photo ©freetobacco.info


A new study published in the journal Age and Ageing says that smoking causes not just damage to the body organs but also the mind. In a survey involving over 8000 people, those above 50 with high blood pressure and obesity registered lesser brain damage than those who smoked. They were made to memorize new words or name as many animals they could in a minute and further tested again after four and eight years to see the impact of their lifestyle over the years.
Those who registered the highest health risks were also associated with cognitive decline. The greater the cognitive decline, the greater was the health risk of a cardiac arrest or high blood pressure. Those who smoked scored the least. Cognitive decline is common with ageing said the scientists but is also affected with daily functioning from their lifestyle and habits. They concluded that it’s imperative to look after cardiovascular health from mid-life.
The Alzheimer’s Society said that it’s a known fact that smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and Body Mass Index is bad for the heart. But this study is evidence that it’s bad for the brain too. The only way to check it is through a balanced diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, blood pressure and cholesterol level. What makes a huge difference is not smoking.

 (Based on Bbc.co.uk)

Interview: Ranbir 'Barfi' Kapoor breaks his silence!

ranbirkapoornice1.jpgWhen Ranbir Kapoor, Ileana D’Cruz and Anurag Basu visited the Hindustan Times office last Friday, they were nearly two-and-a-half hours late. But the crowd that had gathered to chat with them at 4.30 pm had not dispersed. They were keen enough to meet the Barfi! team to even delay their Friday evening plans.
And when they finally arrived, Ranbir, Ileana and Anurag more than made up for their unpunctuality. Starving after a day filled with promotions, they asked for and got pizzas and soft drinks, and cheerfully sat through an hour-long interactive session with the crowd, answering questions, posing for pictures and signing autographs.
Most of the questions, of course, were directed at Ranbir, whose films in the past have made him quite a hero. But the actor did all he could to share the limelight with his co-star Ileana, and director Anurag dada (as Basu is fondly referred to).
So what did the three of them talk about?
Lots of things; from Barfi! (of course) to Dabangg (2010); competition and rivalry within the film industry; Ileana’s surprise role in the film; and Anurag’s bond with the “fine-bred” star kid, Ranbir. Ranbir also surprised the room with his candid responses to questions regarding rivals of the same age, the people he draws inspiration from (Charlie Chaplin and Mr Bean!), and how he selects his films.
Barfi‘Actors take too much credit’
Ranbir, Ileana and Anurag talk about films, inspirations and a famous grandfather
Ranbir, was it a planned move to do different genres — romantic comedy (Ajab Prem Ki Gazab Kahaani, 2009), then a political thriller (Rajneeti, 2010), then Rockstar (2011) and now Barfi!?
Ranbir Kapoor: It’s a fluke, not a planned move. I get 10-15 offers a year, and pick only one or two. You choose the subject and the director you connect with. With Anurag, I connected with his story. And he is like a five-year-old, with an infectious energy. I fell in love with Anurag.
Tomorrow, if someone comes to me with a film like Rowdy Rathore, I would do it. But maybe I don’t have that ‘hero personality’ to carry off such a role. It’s been four-and-half-years so far in this industry, I guess I will have to build my body of work. I’m here for the long run.
On working with Priyanka again, after Anjaana Anjaani (2010)
RK: What impresses me is her desire to do different kinds of films. Playing an autistic character can be tricky. Priyanka has a harder part in the film, and once she got the hang of the character, she flew with it.
Was it tricky to play a deaf and mute character?
RK: I was nervous as I felt I would have to learn sign language, but Anurag was clear that he wanted Barfi! to be relatable and wanted the audiences to understand what he meant. I drew from the comedy of Charlie Chaplin and Mr Bean (Rowan Atkinson). I had to express with my face and through my body. It was fun, it felt like dumb-charades. I did feel insecure at times since I
hadn’t uttered a dialogue, sung a song, punched a guy or done a break dance.
Ileana, how was the Bollywood debut experience?
Ileana D’Cruz: This is unknown territory for me. I thought that in Bollywood, I would be a glamorous heroine. I never thought I would do a film that wouldn’t require me to dress up sexy or put on tons of make-up.
RK: Basically, she thought she was in Dhoom 6!
IDC: No! I didn’t doubt Anurag, I connected well with him, though I saw all his films only after signing Barfi!
Anurag, what do you think of Ranbir as an actor?
Anurag Basu: I think he is one of the best actors we have today. It reflects his upbringing. I think he’s a well-brought-up star kid.
Ranbir, do you agree?
BarfiRK: I am how I am. I’m not trying to be anyone or put up a façade.
How did you discover Illena?
RK: He basically googled ‘Illena hot’. We both did!
AB: While we were casting, I met her and realised she was perfect for Shruti’s role. I hadn’t seen any of her earlier films.
On comparisons with Raj Kapoor
RK: Of course, since I’m his grandson, there will comparisons between us. But I’ve taken inspiration from Charlie Chaplin, as did my grandfather. Mr Bean has also inspired me. I’ve learnt from them how to express oneself through body language.
Is it difficult to act in a period film?
RK: Actors take too much credit, but in reality, all the homework is already done by the director. I am as good as the director and the story. We shot for few days in Darjeeling and Kolkata, but then we shifted to a set in Chandivali Studios in Mumbai. I used to wonder how it would look on screen, but Anurag was clear in his vision. I was dressed for winter but shot in the sultry Mumbai heat. Now when I see the promos, I can see that he has transported us to a different world — that of Darjeeling in 1970s.
On competition
RK: I think it’s great. It’s all healthy competition. We’re not here to replace anyone. We’re just here to make a place for ourselves.
You haven’t done a massy film yet?
RK: What’s a massy film? A good film is a massy film. If there’s emotional connect, you will understand it. That’s massy.
We mean masala films like Dabangg (2010).
RK: That depends on the star. Salman (Khan) has a pan-India fan base. Even if I do a film like that, audiences here (Mumbai) will come. But someone in, say Indore, who doesn’t know me, may not come. With time and more films, I will get that. I’m not trying to jump the gun now.
Illeana, have you received feedback to your part in Barfi!?
IDC: I’ve got tons of reactions. But the one I’ve cherished the most has been from my father. I’ve waited 10 years for him to say that he is really proud of me. He is really stingy when it comes to giving compliments. The day he told me that he’s looking forward to seeing the film, it made me feel like I achieved something.
Ranbir, all the directors call you the most promising actor amongst the current lot. That can’t possibly make you friends with your contemporaries. Do you feel any pressure?
RK: I’ve never felt any pressure. When I started, people asked if I felt pressurised because I come from a film family. But I am here to make a name for myself. I think my parents will be really proud if they are called Ranbir Kapoor’s parents. I love movies and I love acting. There’s no pressure. I’m friends with everyone.
Friends to your face?
RK: No, no. We’ve all hung out together. I know Arjun (Kapoor) and Ranveer (Singh) really well. I also know Shahid (Kapoor), Imran (Khan) and the others. We’ve all gone out together. Sometimes we exchange messages, hang out and do cool stuff. There’s no animosity, at least from my side.
On the Oscar-winning silent-era film, The Artist
RK: I started working on this film (Barfi!) before The Artist (2011) released. But when I did see the film, I messaged Dada (Anurag) saying, ‘I’ve seen a beautiful film.’ Ours isn’t a silent film. But it’s fantastic that films like The Artist reach a wide audience purely on the basis of good story telling.
It’s been said that the music of Barfi! is on the lines of Amelie (2001). Did you guys draw inspiration from it?
RK: I’ve heard of that.
AB: It’s not Amelie, but if you see any European films, the soundtracks are similar. I had given the brief that I wanted to use the violin, accordion, harp and such instruments. I wanted that style of music.
The movie is set in Darjeeling, but could it have been made
anywhere?
AB: I could have set the movie anywhere, but I chose Darjeeling for the simple
reason that I know that place well. The film takes you back to the ’70s, and Darjeeling suited the kind of world I wanted to show.
On political opposition to Ranbir’s films – Wake Up Sid (2009) angered MNS because of the word ‘Bombay’, while Rajneeti ran into trouble too.
RK: This is not planned. I hope no film gets into political conflict. We’re not trying to make a political statement. What they (politicians) do is serious work, we’re just entertainers.
Ranbir, people say that you’re taking a risk by playing such a role...
RK: (Cuts in) Yaar, sometimes you say I’m playing safe, sometimes you say I’m taking a risk. Tomorrow, if the film works, everyone will say ‘Well done’. It’s fine to take a risk. If someone else doesn’t want to, that’s his or her call. I’m here to do my own thing. I think it’s best to encourage me rather than scare me by saying what I’m doing can be risky.
Illeana, you worked with Ranbir and Priyanka (Chopra), two big stars. Was there any fear of being overshadowed?
IDC: Not at all. I already have such an intimidating father that it’s very difficult to intimidate me (laughs). My only worry was whether I would be able to pull off the character. I wanted to live up to Dada’s expectations.
Ranbir, you mentioned that you get a lot of scripts every year. Do you read every single script?
RK: Yes. Sometimes, you read the first 10 pages and it
doesn’t interest you. Sometimes, you have a good filmmaker coming to you with a great story, but he’s possibly the worst narrator. Films have their own destiny.
How good a narrator was Anurag?
RK: He’s really bad. He mixes time, characters and names. I was lucky I got a good four-hour narration. Illeana didn’t even know which film she was doing. She thought she was in Dhoom:6!

By Hindustan Times