News, Views, Opinions, Gossips and Much More...

The Historic City of Charleston

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 01:13:00 +0000

Walking through the 300 years old narrow and rough cobblestone streets of this very romantic Colonial port city, you cannot miss the history of pre civil war era that holds on to this Holy City. The history has barely changed here; 73 pre-Revolutionary buildings, 136 late 18th century structures and over 600 others built in the 1840s. You can hop on a horse-drawn carriage or just walk around the downtown to witness the well preserved and revitalized Charleston, one of the oldest cities in America.

Check out the Rainbow Row, once dilapidated slums which were restored to a affluent neighborhood, painted many a time and is a hit with tourists; step back in time watching the ante-bellum buildings that have survived earthquakes, hurricanes and fire. The White Point Gardens (better known as Battery) is the root of the City. Located at the end of the peninsula and facing the Cooper River, it is a nice place to stroll.

A tour of the amazing southern architecture and culture is a must; whether it is a Tea Party tour or Boat tour, a Pirate tour, or for the daring even a Ghost Tour in one of the most haunted cities of America. Get your tickets early online, as they tend to sell out quickly. If you want to save on money then look for free coupons that are widely distributed at many lodgings, the area Visitors Centers and SC Welcome Centers

Don’t miss Fort Sumpter where the ‘War of the States’ started or Fort Maultrie, preserved now as a World War II Defense Fort, apart from military history, the city also has some very amazing beaches tucked away. Charleston’s sails are simply irresistible. Weather permitted, you can reserve for one of the sails and explore the Old Charleston Light House sitting in the water. It is an amazing sight!

The market area in the center of town is unique; affording some good buys on souvenirs. There is also an abundance of good Low Country eateries and drinking establishments in the heart of the city.

Although the high season is in Spring and summers yet thousands come for the Wildlife Exposition in February, the Cooper River Bridge Run and the women's Family Circle Cup tennis tournament in the spring and the Spoleto Festival in May and June. And after a relaxing vacation spent in one of the local historic inns and hotels, they keep coming back year after year. Let the southern charm sweep you off your feet.

http://www.charlestoncvb.com/

Glimmering Skies in Pennsylvania

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:24:00 +0000

Glistening in the pristine skies over a promenade of thousands of real stars begin to twinkle through the inky darkness. On a perfect night preferably on a new moon, the spectacular view of the sprinkled Milky Way so splendid it casts a shadow, a heavenly sight for amateur astronomers who look at the glint in wonderment.

And its not just the North Pole that you see twinkling high, you’d see stars hundred times as bright, fading away its glory. Or the Orion, which is so dominant in winters; draw an imaginary line up from Orion's belt and it takes you to Taurus the Bull. Go down through the belt and you come to Sirius, which is the brightest star in the sky. Spotting the Big Dipper, Sagittarius and Cassiopeia among zillions of stars is enchanting.

A 275 mile drive from New York and about 4 hours from Pittsburgh, the observation field at Cherry Springs State Park in remote Potter County, north central Pennsylvania, has become a Mecca for passionate astronomers and star gazing enthusiasts from eastern seaboard and Canada who just want to lie back and ponder over the majestic universe.

Just off the State Route 44, on a high hill, over 50 acre of the main stargazing field with view stretching from one horizon to another, with plenty of low standing pines and earthen berms to block wandering lights that comes from the passing traffic is the pitch black skies, making a natural planetarium of sorts.

In times about 40 years back, when our parents were young, the skies were brimming with stars, in recent times however artificial lights or the light pollution have washed away the natural quaint.

Certified by the International Dark Skies Association for its exceptional nightscape, the park is the scene of star parties and other events summer through fall and rents four small observatories. Just pay a minimal $4 to use the observation field and $20-$25 to use one of three large white domes and a shed at the field that open so astronomers can set their telescopes inside and look at the stars, take photographs without wind affecting them.

For the uninitiated stargazers, Music and Stars programs are available for $10 per person and $17 for families. It includes a concert, hot chocolate and cookies, plus a 10 p.m. tour of the night sky and also offers star talks to private groups.

Only a few rules that is imperative. Only flashlights with red lights were allowed and to be only pointed downward. While leaving the park you are asked to keep the headlights off until away from the dark-sky field and conversations are kept hushed.

Come out of your own little worlds and witness the heavens come down on the rumpled hills that are blanketed with trees.

More Information and Rules can be found at: http://www.upstateastro.org/stars/cssp.html and
http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/parks/cherrysprings/cherrysprings_darkskies.aspx

Blue Cobblestones of san Juan

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:15:00 +0000

Pristine green beaches, vivid architecture and a visit back in time that’s San Juan for you. On the island of Puerto Rico, you are sure to miss this mesmerizing beauty, as it generally is the dock for most cruises coming to Puerto Rico. Most visitors come here on a day trip, but the old, walled city has much more to offer.

Extremely narrow streets, buildings on both sides painted in a palette of tropical fruit colors with elaborate wooden doors, patios and eye-catching balconies. When you walk the historic district of Old San Juan you cannot help noticing the beautiful blue cobblestone streets. The stones were baked in Spain in the 1800's and brought to Puerto Rico as ballast. They are known as Aquinas for their beautiful bluish gray color. Many of the stones are very worn, which just adds to their charm.

To absorb city’s history and feel it through the cobblestone streets it is best explored on foot. This island has an array of exquisitely preserved architecture, sprawling forts, cruise filled docks, tiny antique shops and art galleries, retaining the old world charm.

Tourists mainly visit the EL Morro Fort, which dates back to 1539, the Cathedral of San Juan, where the island's first governor, Ponce de Leon, is buried and La Fortaleza, the oldest governor's mansion on U.S. soil. Old San Juan also boasts of several colonial plazas; and the triumvirate of Calle del Cristo, Calle San Jose and Calle Fortaleza for shopping. Calle del Cristo, in particular, is chock-full of art galleries, artisan studios and distinctive boutiques.

Duck into a bar for a Pina Colada (it originated here), sample the local cuisines and take some time out for hand carved wooden saints while enjoying the talented street performers. There are tons of shops to cater to everybody’s taste. And while walking through the peaceful buildings, you could capture the lovely view of the sea. Sure enough not to miss the warm sand and waters of the Luqillo Beach. Another treasure that San Juan offers is the La Plaza de las Palomas or the Plaza of the Doves; you cannot see your feet because there are just so many doves.

Just an hour south from the European styled city and you can visit America’s only rainforest, El Yunque. The experience is as breathtaking as the imprints of renaissance in the city. You'll see numerous waterfalls, ferns and wildflowers along the marked trails.

If you are able to get some time off your sail, do enjoy the vibrant nightlife and rum that is produced on this island. Be there to experience it!

Go to: http://wikitravel.org/en/San_Juan

Spa City- Sedona

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:11:00 +0000

Arizona is famous for its light, its breathtaking beauty and Sedona- the spa city. The allure is transcendent. Tucked away in the Oak Creek Canyon; the scabrous yellow and red cliffs forming a sharp contrast to the lush green valley that slices through them. This picturesque city takes you to a completely new level. Rated as America’s most beautiful destination to watch the sunrise and set, which many painters and sculptors call home.

Named after the lady Sedona Schnebly, one of the very few families that lived here in the early 20th Century, Sedona derives its popularity as a place of spiritual, metaphysical and magnetic energy. The New Age populace has found areas where the Earth’s magnetism is said to have special properties. Called Vortexes, the sites are believed to impart a feeling of well-being and connectedness. These are located at Bell Rock, Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Boynton Canyon, and Schnebly Hill.

Not quite surprising though this magical land is world famous for its spa experience. What if you come for a vacation and experience changes that are more than skin deep. Many resorts offer a range of flamboyant services. There is nothing called ordinary here. You not only revitalize your body with hot stones, blue-corn scrubs, meditation grottoes and crystals; you actually end up relaxing your soul- that’s the charm of Sedona.

Whether you want to awe at the spectacular 280-plus-acre Red Rock State Park or just rekindle spirituality at Chapel of the Holy Cross, a shrine constructed between two sandstone buttes, Sedona is as relaxing as it is rejuvenating.

Home to the Anasazi, Hohokam, Hopi, and Sinagua through the centuries, one can see the reminiscent of the bygone era in the abandoned pueblos, evocative petroglyphs, and ancient irrigation ditches.

The desert setting may lead one to believe it to be as a scorching oven, but the city boasts of relatively cooler temperatures; an year round comfort at 74 degree F. It is a haven for young, old and savvy artists. Physical spa treatments, emotional healing, spiritual awakening, and a trip to Sedona!

For more information go to :http://www.visitsedona.com/

Profiling Ravi Singh and Ana Brett

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:05:00 +0000

He is a fusion literal poet; she an expert dancer and a proponent of live food diet. Their story is not another Harry met Sally kinds. A strong connection holds them together and that connection is Kundalini Yoga. For over 40 years, they have been practicing yoga, training efficient teachers, holding workshops, writing books, and creating DVDs to tell the world about the lesser-known secret for vibrant health and self-expansion.

Ana met Ravi in 2001 in New York, teaching in one of his yoga centers. They merged their teachings, and then their lives in a peaceful and harmonious relationship, to learn more from one another.

In his growing years, Eastern Spiritual and philosophical traditions fascinated Ravi. He chose to embrace yoga for it affected lives almost immediately. Starting with Hatha Yoga and transcendental meditation, he came to New York in mid 70s to transform lives, connecting with the city, its vibrancy and balancing it with Kundalini Yoga.

Ana has been studying dance and yoga from the age of ten and now teaches at all levels, she is also known as a “technique guru” to the New York City Ballet. Following a live food diet, which is raw vegetarian food or food cooked in less than 116 degrees, she believes that when one starts learning yoga, it teaches them to question what they consume and leads gradually to a healthier diet. Yoga detoxes ones body and the diet makes it even purer.

Ravi is known as the ‘guru’ of teachers and has trained more than 300 teachers with his innovative and poetic style. Through their years of training and practice they are perfecting the skills, very important when it comes to forming credible teachers. His efforts have been monumental in founding yoga centers in NYC and Los Angeles. They lead teacher-training courses together in Amsterdam, Hawaii and the USA; in situations as varied as prisons, backstage on Broadway and to street kids.

Yoga has a positive impact in people’s lives and Ravi and Ana have witnessed the betterment. Especially when they see people depending on tranquilizers and antidepressants, the need of Kundalini yoga becomes even more rampant. The reason: Yoga helps create balance.

He calls his technique of Kundalini Yoga practical, theoretical, philosophical and poetical; a powerful source of internal energy, located at the base of the spine, coiled like a snake, when activated, rises up through the body, opening the consciousness. The essence of Kundalini yoga is to activate the spirit, the chakras, and the inspiration to make an impact.

Their Warrior Workout DVD is a hit with celebes like Gwyneth Paltrow, Madonna, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, who are also ambassadors for Kundalini yoga. The reason: The warrior workout gives people the opportunity to do more than they thought they could. People have a lot of strength but they fail to realize it. The more energy you put out – the more you get back- that’s the secret of Yoga.

Ravi and Ana’s DVDs include Ultimate Stretch Workout, Navel Power, Warrior Workout and Fat Free Yoga. They are priced at £14.99 and available from www.yogamatters.com
For more information about Ravi and Ana visit www.raviana.com

Stolen Childhood

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 14:59:00 +0000

Pass through the narrow streets of Mirzapur (Uttar Pradesh) and you are bound to stumble upon trenches with dark and dingy quarters no bigger than a king sized bed. Around 10 children sit on a low bench, bent upon a piece of cloth, their hands mechanically sewing the embroidery prints. Without food, water or wages they are beaten, harassed to work day and night, to complete the work assigned by their thekedaars (managers), in conditions even adults would find intolerable.

This is the story of the unfortunate children of India, with largest number of child labor. They sweat in the heat of stone quarries, work in the fields, pick rags in city streets, hide as domestic servants, or even as prostitutes. The silver workers suffer frequent burns on their hands and arms, the leather workers exposed to toxic chemicals long banned in developed countries, and the gemstone polishers are subject to both cuts and toxic contamination. All of these workers, given their cramped and unsanitary work places, suffer a high risk of contracting tuberculosis and other diseases of poverty. These children lead a miserable and difficult life, often beaten at smallest pretence and working in ridiculously hazardous conditions to support their desperately poor families and to feed themselves; resulting in sometime permanent injuries at an age when your kids have just finished Pre School. They reach adulthood, deformed or irrevocably sick, turning into exhausted old men and women who’d most probably die by the age of fifty.

Ever wondered, the maid who works back home in India, she earns just enough to be able to provide three meals for her children, all of who lack basic education. For them the only exposure is work and that’s what they do, help their parents earn. These are the situations of millions of children across India having no exposure and in the name of earning money or following traditions are forced to work. They are vulnerable, working for mere hundred rupees a month and a day off; work better than adults, put in longer hours and don’t demand breaks.

Hawk eyed sweetshop owners, tea vendors, truck drivers, carpet weavers, tea plantation agents, servant placement agencies or agents of various industries that wouldn’t mind cheap labor, bond them for a lifetime even generation that follows them. It means kidnapping, buying (yes a child is cheaper than cattle), bonded labor or even trafficking kids in the name of providing job and food to their extremely poor families; promises however are never fulfilled.

Government says a lot, but in spite of being banned the fact remains. The basic problem lies in the structure, the series of loops which makes it impossible to track roots down. NGOs do their job, but the real power lies with us, in not supporting products that can be a result of child labor. It's a fact of a global economy, and will continue to be, as long as Westerners (read Americans and Europeans) demand cheap goods--and incomes in emerging economies remain low.

Every time you buy an imported handmade carpet, an embroidered pair of jeans, a beaded purse, a decorated box, silver goods or a soccer ball there's a good chance you're acquiring something fashioned by a child. Such goods are available in places like GapKids, Macy's, ABC Carpet & Home, Ikea, Lowe's and Home Depot. Every weave of that silk saree that adorns your body perhaps has a child’s sweat to it. Enlighten your conscience!

http://www.bba.org.in/main.php
www.cry.org
www.butterflieschildrights.org
www.childrightindia.org
www.nanbanindia.org

Will Ajab Jodis Create Gajab Charisma?

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 22:20:00 +0000

Real life jodis are so visible these days that they really don’t interest cinemagoers much.
In fact some not so obvious pairs have sizzled the screen last year. Perhaps that is the reason why filmmakers now want to experiment with actors, who have never done films together.

Deepika and Ranbir finally got a breather. Deepika is all set to pair opposite Saif in his home production in an untitled film to be directed by Imtiaz Ali.

Konkona Sen with beau Ranvir Shorey and Rahul Bose is so obvious. While she did shake a leg with Farhan Akhtar in Luck By Chance, she is also sizzling hot with Ranbir Kapoor in Wake Up Sid. Now this is different!
.
Ranbir also does a ‘gajab’ with Katrina in Raj Kumar Santoshi’s ‘Ajab Prem Ki Gajab Kahani’. Hmm shining stars!

Neil Nitin Mukesh pairs with Bipasha ‘Sexy’Basu to sizzle the screen in ‘Aa Dekhe Zaraa’.Why not Shahrukh? Did nobody think about it?

John and Katrina too are looking hot in Kabir Khan’s ‘New York’ so are Priyanka and Shahid in Vishal Bhardwaj’s ‘Kaminey’. They are hot!

Sonam Kapoor and Abhishek Bachchan ‘s chemistry enlivens the screen in Delhi-6. They seem so lovey dovey in the promos.

Hrithik Roshan too is breaking prejudices and would pair opposite Kangana Ranaut in much hyped Kites. He has earlier too worked opposite Ms Rai in Jodhaa Akbar and Dhoom-2.

Kareena has tried pairing opposite Rahul Bose in her only off beat film Chameli, she might be able to strike some romance with Sanjay Dutt in an untitled film!

How about Rani Mukherjee and Shahid Kapoor? They’ll be together in Anurag Singh’s cricket film. That definitely sounds promising.

And yes talking about unusual jodis how could one forget Nishabd starring Amitabh with Jiah Khan. Could Nasseruddin Shah create the same oomph with Vidya Balan in Ishqya?

Last year saw a lot of uncommon couples with Aamir-Asin, Shah Rukh-Anuskha, Saif-Bipasha, Arjan-Priyanka; the different the, the better and audiences love them too; after all we get bored seeing the same pairs over and over again. Will these couples be able to create magic or will it just be kaput? We better wait.

White Skin in Desi Flicks

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 22:10:00 +0000

It had to happen. After all how long could white actresses resist bollywood temptation? Bollywood has always loved showing some white skin off wherever possible. Now beauties from every imaginable country are rushing towards bollywood movies to steam up the screens in 2009.

Sajid Nadiadwala is roping in quite a few famous stars for his movies ‘Kambakht Ishq’. Gov. Arnold Shwazenegger, Sylvester Stallone, Brandon Routh and Bond Girl Denise Richards in important roles. The film also stars Akshay(Khiladi) Kumar and Bebo (Kareena Kapoor). The film is slated for May release.

Rakesh Roshan’s next movie ‘Kites’ will see screen sizzle with Hrithik Roshan and Barbara Mori in an extremely bold and sensuous Latino girl. She plays the love interest of Hrithik Roshan. The film also stars Kangana Ranaut and is due for release in June.

Former Miss Sri Lanka Jacqueline Fernandez plays the role of Jasmine in Sujoy Ghosh’s fantasy movie, ‘Aladdin’. Riteish Deshmukh Plays ‘Aladdin’ and Amitabh Bachchan becomes ‘Genie’. The movie was to release on Christmas last year, but has been postponed indefinitely.

Brazilian model Bruna Abdullah will storm Bollywood and is being comforted by Salman Khan. Although Bruna has not bagged any movie yet, Salman has been aggressively promoting her.

Salman is also launching Lisa Lazarus, who has some striking resemblance with Katrina Kaif, in his period film ‘Veer’. Loosely based on ‘Gladiator’, Salman wrote the film’s story. Miss UK plays the leading lady. The film will be ready for a mid –2009 release.

French actress Luchiya Cats will be seen romancing Govinda in ‘Excuse Me, Please’. A Hindi remake of the Hollywood comedy ‘The 40-Year-Old Virgin’, Govinda plays a nerdy 40 year-old NRI who stays a virgin until his friends help him get some sex. Jag Mundhra’s sex comedy releases in summer this year.

Japanese beauty Chigusa Takaku will make her bollywood debut with Aparna Sen’s film ‘The Japanese Wife’. Based on Kunal Basu’s short story in which Rahul Bose plays a character involved with two women, the other woman being Raima Sen.

In the past too foreign actors have had some substantial roles. Ali Larter cast opposite Salman Khan in Marigold; Shannon Esra opposite Govinda in Salaam-e-Ishq; Alice Patten opposite Aamir Khan in Rang De Basanti; and Rachel Shelly opposite Aamir Khan in Lagaan. The foreign actors are becoming a permanent feature in Bollywood, for their appeal, of their boldness at least.

Videsi Direction on Desi theme

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 21:11:00 +0000

Slumdog Millionaire has made India a phenomenon. The cinema has come off age. From snake charmers and Maharaja’s, foreign filmmakers are now interested in the grittiest reality. Here is a list of foreign efforts that have really left a mark on my memory.

Gandhi (1982), Richard Attenborough’s portrayal of Mahatma Gandhi, traces the journey of his life during the India’s fight for independence from the British. The film was critically received and many still debates over the positive light that this film was shot in. This stirring piece of work transcended all boundaries and till date Gandhi is viewed with sacrosanct.

City Of Joy (1992) was story of a disillusioned wealthy doctor who finds solace in the slums of Calcutta, this film made its way through a lot of political pressure. India was not ready to showcase its squalor and that was the reason why Roland Joffe-directed film based upon the novel of the same name by French journalist/author and India lover Dominique Lapierre, was not well received.

A Passage to India (1984) dealt with the unexplored colonial India, the unfriendly relationship between the British and the Indians. Directed by Englishman David Lean based the film on the same name as EM Forster’s novel, the movie got a huge critical response.

Based on Khushwant Singh’s novel, A Train To Pakistan (1998), Pamela Rooks captured the whole tension, horror and violence that prevailed during the partition of India. The movie was well received for its stark direction.

Salaam Bombay/ Monsoon Wedding/ The Namesake

At a time when bollywood cinema was more escapist, came Indian born US filmmaker Mira Nair movies, which caught India’s reality and showed it to the world. Salaam Bombay (1988) got rave reviews but 2001’s Monsoon Wedding, that she really hit moolah. The Namesake (2006), based on Jhumpa Lahiri’s novel of the same name, is another critically acclaimed story of Indians.

The list is long, very long. The foreign audiences are charmed by India, its colorful culture, and the reality, which no longer consists only of Maharaja’s, jungles and elephants.

Who’d Be Benegal’s Chamki?

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 21:06:00 +0000

Shyam Benegal is coming back with his costliest project ever, ‘Chamki Chameli’ an Indian version of French musician Georges Bizet's 1875 opera ‘Carmen’. The opera has been adapted into movies many a time and has had some very big names playing title roles. Latest being Beyonce in ‘Carmen: A Hip Hopera ’ in 2001. The big question is: Who has the mettle to play the title role of a free-spirited fiery-tempered gypsy, Carmen on the Indian Screen? Priyanka, Kareena or Urmila? Who could be Benegal’s Chamki?

Chamki, a musical requires a trained dancer preferably in Rajasthan folk. Urmila was offered the role and rumors have it that she opted out because of money issues. She has awed everybody with her powerful performance in ‘Pinjar’ and not to forget the beautiful dancer girl she is. She could do justice to unconventional Chamki.

Since Priyanka is trained in Kathak, she becomes a strong contender. Priyanka was approached for this role a few years back but problems with then producer Sanjay Gupta refrained her from accepting the role. With a variety on her platter, if she rethinks about the offer, she’d actually be a good choice for playing the promiscuous Chamki.

Size zero Kareena was impressed with what Shyam Benegal had done to her sister in ‘Zubeida’. She initially was super charged about the role; but soon opted out as she normally does with parallel cinema roles. This is not the first time Bebo has shown inhibitions to non- mainstream cinema. Apart from ‘Chameli’, offbeat challenges like Deepa Mehta’s ‘Water’and Rituparno Ghosh’s ‘Raincoat’, didn’t quite appeal her. She still is quite lipped about the offer.

The film is a project Benegal has wanted to make for long. Chamki, set in Rajasthan, is vouched for being a lavish epic musical with A R Rahman creating music, Javed Akhtar and Gulzar writing lyrics. Unlike earlier, hopefully this time money won’t be a constraint to rope in the best of Bollywood as Big Pictures is producing the film now. The film will go on floor once the cast is finalized.

East Coast Vacation Getaway- Martha’s Vineyard

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 20:57:00 +0000

Roaring beaches, majestic rows of Victorian houses, captain houses, lighthouses and peo, Martha’s Vineyard is a picturesque New England island. One could explore a true fishing village with its Native American community, while riding a bike on the endless beach road when you never know what will be around the next bend. Adorned by fields of flowers and grass, you could actually see llamas grazing on the front lawn and could even stop by the next corner to buy that ice-cold lemonade and oatmeal cookie or perhaps take a ride in the flying horses, the oldest carousel in the country.

Six distinctive small towns make Martha's Vineyard a tourist haven. Stepping foot on the Vineyard immediately brings you face to face with the island’s history. It has some fabulously restored whimsical storybook houses. Hundreds of colorful Victorian gingerbread cottages line the quaint streets of Oak Bluffs on the Vineyard’s northeast shore. It is also a diner’s paradise. Tourist rush in the season gets maddening here. One just can’t miss the magnificent stonewalls surrounding ocean view fields of Chilmark.

Stay in the affluent Edgartown and enjoy boat and people watching at the Memorial Wharf. Whether you want to see the lilacs bloom in spring while riding a rented bike or just relax on a snowy winter weekend, Edgartown will be courteous enough. If you thought Martha’s Vineyard would be a wine heaven then this island is a sure disappointment. You would not find sideways style wine tasting in this Vineyard. In fact West Tisbury is the only place on the whole island where you’d actually find a vineyard.

Marvel at the red –clay cliffs of Gay Head now called Aquinnah also home to the Wampanoag Tribe. Relish a lobster roll while watching scenic sunsets in the fishing village of Menemsha.
Bike, Kayak, rent a cottage or sail to a remote beach; rain or shine terrific activities are infinite here. Just don’t come on a weekend trip, it won’t be enough for the relaxing atmosphere in Martha’s Vineyard.

A mere 100 square mile area, located just 5 miles from the Cape Cod coast, visitors are ferried from various mainland ports many times a day. A wedding, a meeting or just on a short vacation with family, this east coast holiday get away has a little something to offer everybody, all year round.

Luck By Chance- Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 02:31:00 +0000

Fantasy juxtaposed with reality, a film on Bollywood not a bit same as anything before.
If you think this movie is another ‘Khoya Khoya Chand’, ‘Om Shanti Om’, ‘Rangeela’ or ‘Guddi’ then this movie is surely a must watch; It as insider’s view of the strugglers who come to Mumbai to earn a living.

‘Luck By Chance’, is a film about the people of the world of bollywood, people who create fantasy, but are desperately trying to escape their own reality. The struggle, their beliefs, the way things are manipulated, their superstitions, their way of life; Self-advancement being the driving factor here, opportunities are scant, egos huge and everything else connected with fate, ‘Luck By Chance’ is a tongue-in-cheek attempt at the Hindi Film Industry. It asks a very relevant question: Success is defined by others or is it what you define for yourself?

The story revolves around two struggling actors Sona (Konkona Sen) and Vikram (Farhan Akhtar). She is wide eyed and ambitious, he is young and handsome. They both help each other in realizing their dreams and turn their lives around forever. There is an unsaid connection and they develop a romantic relationship.

Things become favorable for Vikram when things take a different turn on the sets of a potential blockbuster by Rommy Rolly (Rishi Kapoor). He is a producer who always works with the biggies and has a strong belief in fate. Amidst chaos on the sets of his new film, how Rommy Rolly calls out for Vikram for audtitions and Vikram manipulates things in his favor.

The film has a hoard of Bollywood stars doing cameo including the Three Khans who play themselves, Hrithik Roshan as a super star, Juhi Chawla as the blond wife Minty Rolly (Producer Rolly’s wife), Rani Mukherjee, Kareena Kapoor, Shilpa Shetty. Zoya’s brother Farhan is all geared up with his second shot at acting and has even trained in martial art for some of the action.

The subtle and unique promotion along with some mind-blowing music is already leaving an impression on the audiences. How this behind-the-scenes bollywood potboiler fares, we’ll have to wait till Jan 30 to see.

Shilpa to go bald!

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 02:24:00 +0000

Ok, so Shilpa Shetty was in news all of January for a few scenes in her new movie ‘Desire’ where she was required to go bald. She decided to dare and sacrifice her mane to join the league of Shabana Azmi, Nandita Sen and Lisa Ray.

But suddenly we hear news of prosthetics helping her out on her shoot. Perhaps the dusky beauty was scared of her image going haywire. The damsel decided not to take the risk to shave, blaming it on the market definitions of glamour. So finally did Shilpa do the role?

Of course she did; with the help of make up artist Vidyadhar who was specially flown into Kollam, Kerala. A three-hour long set up, where a flesh colored latex bald cap was attached with a spirit gum to her head, resulting in the ‘desirable’ look. Too shy to see herself without hair, she insisted to shoot all her bald scenes in a day.

Affirmed as the most challenging role of her life, Shilpa plays an Odissi dancer in an Indo-Chinese movie ‘Desire’ by Malyalam director R. Sarath. An intense love story, it revolves around 10 tumultuous years of Goutami’s (Shilpa Shetty) life and her relationship with an artist Jai Leang (Chinese super star, Xia Yu) and how they are brought together because of destiny.

Apart from shaving her head, the beautiful lady had to unlearn all her Bharatnatyam and learn Odissi. Everyday she has been rehearsing the Tribhangi form of Odissi where the body gets twisted into three parts. The film went on floor in the second week of January and will not be shot in China but in the picturesque locales of Kerala and Malaysia. Once ready, the film will be released in China as well.

Donning Different Roles-Farhan Akhtar

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 21:43:00 +0000

When ‘Dil Chahta hai’ first came, it was difficult to escape the youthful frenzy that was attached along. Coming from a debutant director, it was a splendor. Then came ‘Lakshya’, a film about youth again but the confusion about goal in life made it a favorite of every college goers. Then came ‘Don-The Chase Begins Again’. Only a director of his caliber could have dared to make a remake of 80’s super hit starring Amitabh Bachchan. The movie won him critical acclaim. In the mean while he also produced ‘Honeymoon Travels’ and wrote lyrics for Gurinder Chadha’s ‘Bride and Prejudice’.

Last year’s ‘Rock On!’ Saw a different facet altogether. From behind the camera, he was there in front, shining like a bright star. He proved his mettle again as an actor, singer so much so that his movie was being vouched as the next Oscar entry. Singing 6 of the 9 tracks in the film, creating a rock band of his own and performing all across India, not many dare it.

Along with directing, producing, singing and writing stories and lyrics, Farhan Akhtar has been busy with more acting assignments. Be it Luck By Chance, his sister Zoya Akhtar’s directorial debut where he plays a struggling actor, paired opposite Konkona Sen Sharma or debutant Vijay Lalwani’s psychological thriller ‘Kartik Calling Kartik’, opposite Deepika Padukone, Farhan’s acting career has jump-started. And so has the new show on NDTV Imagine, which he is hosting for 12 episodes. ‘Oye It’s Friday’ is a chat show and it went on air in mid December 2008.

Apart from acting and hosting, Farhan also plans to start a film starring Abhishek and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan with his enterprising producer partner Ritesh Sidhwani. A romantic comedy is also under his hat. The much-awaited Don-2, sequel to his Don-The Chase Begins Again is also in the league along with ‘Voice from the sky’.

Born to famous screenwriters Javed Akhtar and Honey Irani, Farhan is not just another celebrity kid trying to make a mark in bollywood. At 35, he is already a director, writer, producer, host, singer and lyricist; his passion and his work reflects his multi talent. He likes amazing audiences, and he no less woos us.

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Sat, 10 Jan 2009 03:06:00 +0000

Its not just another movie about India's rawness by a 'foreigner'. Hard core reality, that is what it is. Quite unlike bollywood, shot in digital camera in the busy, the real Mumbai and not a staged slum. In bollywood, where the poor especially the modern poor never reach salvation, the movies are typically about family, marriages, murder revenges orfight sequences. But here is a story, shot with the help of the bollywood crew; a story of most of the slum kids in India who may never have been able to get such a feeling of sympathy on such a wide scale. A story of the east which is produced, directed, written, all in English.

Infact most part of the movie is in english and subtitles come handy whenever there are hindi dialogues. A kind of a marriage between bollywood and hollywood, in the cinematic heaven. It has all that a bollywood movie needs, to be popular; strong storyline, impressive new comers, and foot tapping number. Yet is so different from any other movie ever made about India. Yes, I am talking about Slumdog Millionaire, the movie that has gripped the western audiences so hard that it is being vouched for the next Oscar and nominated for other heavy weight awards against Hollywood biggies.

The reason I feel for the movie's success in the 'West' perhaps lies in the squalor, poverty and Dickinson kind of story that this movie deals with. Not to forget powerful performances by Dev Patel and beautiful Freida Pinto, the mesmerizing smile has done its magic.Yet thousands of miles apart in Dharavi (the largest slum in Asia), Mumbai, where the movie is based, little is known or heard about the movie. Mainly because the movie was released in US first and then yesterday in UK, it is going to be released in India on Jan 23.

The movie has been dubbed in Hindi and the title has been suitably titled 'Slumdog Crorepati'. But how realistic is the depiction of India anyways?

I did say in my

review of Slumdog

that the film has a few flaws that come from bad research and a director who knows India a little less than of course how WE(Indians) do. The Opening Scene, where the police officer is showed using 'third degree' on a man(Jamal Malik) who is just an answer away from winning 20 million rupees in a game show originally hosted by a man who is treated no less than God in this country. (Yes, I am talking about Amitabh Bahchan in the original Indian version of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire). Jamal is being interrogated because cops are sure this slum kid has cheated his way up.

Now two points arise
1. Given today's scenario, how will such a hyped man(Jamal) escape media frenzy, who'd hoard him with typical question of "How are you feeling?"
2. If he is such a big cheat, it would become even bigger story and Police would be grilled and television would bustle with exclusive stories from right in front of his slum.

No such thing happens and Jamal's tale continue as he resurrects after having survived the deadly 'third degree'.
Another scene where young Jamal is shown running, covered in faeces, pushing the
crowd away to get the autograph of his dream man Amitabh Bachchan???? This scene
was nauseating, true to the extent only where people make money out of a cesspit, I'm sure no kid would ever run like this ever and whether Amitabh Bachchan would sign an autograph?, I doubt!

The riots come out of no where and Jamal loses his mother, and befriends Latika, the love of his life. I can ignore the fact that portrayal of Lord Ram in this scene seemed more of a 'combo' of Lord Shiva and Lord Krishna.

The film is mostly in english, except for perhaps one third where the dialogues of the young kids are in Hindi. When the kids grow up to be adolescents they are able to speak gramatically correct english.(quite miraculously.. I thought this could happen only in a Bollywood movie)

The sets of Kaun Banega Crorepati (Indian version of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire), is all real with the same background music and set except for the way the contestant tea vendor Jamal is treated. The impolite and rude ways that Prem (Anil Kapoor), host of the show taunts Jamal and the way audience too becomes a party to it. My contention- No show on Indian television ever at least on screen is biased to the economically weaker section.

The call center scene seems most unreal. No cell phone data is available readily at the click of a button as yet in telephone directories. Jamal is able to find his lost brother Salim's number easily, at a click.

The song 'Darshan Do Ghanshyam' that the children are made to mug in order to earn better is not penned by Soordas, as claimed in the film, but by Gopal Singh Nepali for the movie Narsi Bhagat.

The film amidst the grittiest reality gives us the taste for fantasy, and that's what makes this film stand out. How Indians would react to this film especially for somebody like Jamal(before he won the show), who'd most likely watch it in the many 'Talkie' style single screen, will be really interesting to know. The urban will surely give in to the hype that surrounds this movie.

Also Read: SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE-REVIEW

Dabboo Ratnani Calendar 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 16:25:00 +0000

Making an actress look hot in a saree is something 'Edward Shutter hands' Dabboo Ratnani had not experimented with till date. A decade into shooting exclusive calendars and catching the most prolific bollywood stars in style, Dabboo has come up with the most waited event of the year, Calendar 2009.

His recent work of art features the 'movers' right from Akshay Kumar, Saif Ali Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Hrithik Roshan, Sanjay Dutt, Shahid Kapoor, Shahrukh Khan, Rani Mukherjee, Ranbir Kapoor, Deepika Padukone, Priyanka Chopra, Kajol& Ajay Devgan, John Abraham, Shilpa Shetty , Salman Khan, Katrina Kaif, the Bachchans Amitabh, Abhishek and Aishwarya, to 'shakers' Kangana Ranaut, Mallika Shehrawat, Sushmita Sen, Ayesha Takia, Abhay Deol, Viveik Oberoi, Riteish Desh-mukh,Neil Nitin Mukesh, Dino Morea, Lara Dutta, marita Rao, Tusshar Kapoor, Arjun Rampal, Fardeen Khan, Emraan Hashmi, Riya Sen, Amisha Patel. Sushmita Sen features first time in his calendar.

Unlike his previous calendars, Daboo has not indulged in any dramatic theme this year but has played with vivid colors ranging from the black and white from the sixties to the sizzling red of the seventies-eighties; of course with other myriad
hues as well. From just a 'collection of snaps' over a period of ten years he has been extensively shooting exclusive photos for his calendars which are available only for the high profile.

Kajol sizzling in a red gown atop a taxi on a busy Mumbai road, Deepika's drop dead gorgeous looks in a black saree; Kangana, Amisha Patel and Riya Sen, baring it all.

Need I say more? Divulge in the pics... they sure are treat for the eyes.

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Jiah Khan endorses PeTA

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 03:42:00 +0000

After a hoard of bollywood famous and infamous making it big with People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), it's sumptuous actress Jiah Khan's turn to do her bit. In an advertisement shot by pro photographer Farrokh Chothia, she was dressed as a wounded bird, entrapped in kite strings(manja as it is locally known) with tag line, “Cut the Glass-Coated Manja, Not Bird’s Wings”.

The advertisement coincides with the Indian Festival of Makar Sankranti, when people fly kites as a tradition. Thousands of birds die a painful death or are seriously injured by muddling up in the glass coated kite strings (manja) that fall on trees or electric poles.

"We're asking participants in the 'Makar Sankranti' contests and all kite-flying competitors to immediately stop using glass-coated manja and to conduct their sport in a way that isn't deadly to humans and wildlife," she said.

Opposite Amitabh Bachchan in her debute, then landing role in Ghajini opposite 'Mr Perfection' Aamir Khan and now this ultrasonic ad, Jiah Khan surely knows how to be in the news.

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Horn Ok Pleassss Release Postponed

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 18:20:00 +0000

Horn Ok Please was scheduled for release on Jan 9, but due to some financial clearance issue the date has been pushes forward to Jan 16. On an earlier occasion too the release of the film was postponed from Dec 5 to Jan 9.
The Film stars Nana Patekar, Rimmi Sen and Muzzamil Ibrahim.

Movies at the Box Office this week- Jan 9

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 04:31:00 +0000

As the little worthy 2008 passed by, bollywood is beaming with activity again, with as many as 30 films lined up for release in the first quarter. Although there was no 'hindi' release as such in the first week, a few short budgeted movies are due for release this week; Bad Luck Govind, Horn Ok Pleassss, Kaashh... Mere Hote, Khallballi - Fun Unlimited, 42 Kms... and The President Is Coming. The trend seems to be of senseless comedies made in small budgets. Here is a quick preview of what you can look out for this Jan 9.

Bad Luck Govind

Varun Khanna, who has many a hollywood movie under his hat, makes his directorial debut with the movie "Bad Luck Govind". Just as the name suggests, this romantic comedy is about a young man who is doomed with bad luck. In a series of hilarious events, how Govind manages to over power the luck of those around him with his bad luck is the story of the movie. Gaurav Kapoor aka VJ Gaurav of channel V fame and Hrishita Bhatt are in the main lead. Music is directed by Anu Malik.

Horn Ok Pleassss

A laugh-your-wits-out-and-leave-brains-behind kind of movie where you would laugh and roll at unexpected events and surprises of a man's quest to find his lost love with the help of a multimillionaire truck driver. A series of senseless events and self created life or death chaos amidst the confusion between twins, is the story of Horn Ok Pleassss which would set you rolling. Directed by Rakesh Sarang, the appeal lies in Nana Patekar who plays the multi millionaire truck driver along with Rimmi Sen who plays both his wife and the twin sister. Scandalous Rakhi sawant also shares a small screen presence.

Kaash.. Mere Hote

Another typical bollywood story, Kaash.. Mere Hote has the most predictable storyline. Krishna and Radhika are deeply in love and have committed their lives
to one another, this lovey dovey story however has a twist. A teenager Kia is bent upon getting Krishna, making their life miserable. The film has a newbie Kumar Saahil
as Krishna and stars Sneha Ullal, the Aishwarya Rai look alike. The movie would definitely appeal college goers hopefuly it may provide some good entertainment.

Khalbali.. Fun Unlimited

How a violent mischiveous idea generates comedy is the story of Khalbali.. fun
unlimited. A rich hotelier plants a bomb in a rivals to gain popularity and how
the chaos thereafter turns into nonsensical humour is what the film is based
upon. Its a story we have seen so many times, but the cast of comedy champs
might make this film laugh a riot.
The cast includes some famous names like Rajpal Yadav, Ketaki Dave, Delnaz Paul, Chunkey Pandey, Suresh Menon, Shruti Seth, Johny Lever,Tiku Talsania, Asrani and Shakti Kapoor, along with little less known faces like Nikhil Dwivedi and Sada in various roles.
Produced by Azam Khan under the banner of 'One More Thought Entertainment, it has music directed by Sajid-Wajid and lyrics by Shabbir Ahmed and Jalees Sherwani.

42 kms

Life is an endless journey; everybody is running for something or the other. This movie is a struggle of five happy people who from diverse backgrounds run for a 42 km marathon for some compelling reasons. The film is about the force that comes form within during adverse situation to prove ones mettle, regain confidence or straighten troubled relations. The story seems slightly off beat an I am sutre would drive good audiences.
The cast includes some famous name like Mandira bedi, Purab Kohli, Samir Dattani, Bikram Saluja, Prashant Chainani, Nausheen Ali Sardar & Nauheed Cyrusi.

Directed by Nisha Chainani, who has worked under some of the best names in bollywood, the movie comes with a message for life, how the different people run for different reasons in this endless competition called life.

The President Is Coming

Finally a gasp of fresh air. This is a story that is different, would make you laugh and you would not feel stupid. The story is based on George W Bush's visit to India in 2006, where he wanted to meet the young face of 'New changing India'.This fact is changed into a satire in the movie where the Ameircan consulate hires an Indian PR agency to find one young face to be the 'New India' infront of the American President. Shortlisted in a nation wide search and grilled through a series of questionnaire, it portrays the desperation and the length to which each contestant would go just to shake hands with the outgoing President.

Directed by Kunal Roy Kapur, under the Ramesh sippy banner, this documentary style movie is India's first mockumentary and has the original cast of the play on which the film is based.

Audiences have matured and how they react to a certain movie is very unpredictable. A different story with not so popular star cast may give even the best of the industry a run for their money. The industry it seems has learned how to cope with the recession by making quality movies in small budgets.

King Khan may become part of 'Taj To Oberoi'

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 05:55:00 +0000

Soon after Mumbai was released from the siege of terror, filmmakers registered nearly 20 titles which dealt with this horrendous subject. Tragedies are 'masala', they sell like hot cakes and this was proven when the first title was submitted when the fierce firefight between 10 gunmen and NSG was still going on. Filmmaker B Subhash who went ahead with titles 'Taj to Oberoi' and 'Bird's Point of View Taj Terror' says he wants Bollywood's top notch actors to be part of his movie.

Shahrukh Khan might play Late Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan in B Subhash's movie on Mumbai terror attacks called 'Taj to Oberoi'. If things go as planned, John Abraham might play the role of an NSG commando whose strategies helped neutralise the terrorists and Mithun Chakrobarty as NSG Chief JK Dutt.

The films shooting is due to start in January.This emotional story would highlight the pain attacks caused to the people and the sense of unity that was brought about.

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Ghajini: Old wine in New bottle

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 14:42:00 +0000

How now. This is what is called old wine in a new bottle. Picture this: A successful businessman, Sanjay Singhania(Aamir Khan) comes to know of an admirer, Kalpana(Asin). A model by profession, Kalpana boasts of being his girlfriend when she doesn't even know who this man is. Sanjay goes on to meet the girl to deal with this issue. On the way he falls in love with this very beautiful girl who helps handicapped kids cross the road. Sanjay instantly falls for this young girl only to realize later that this girl is Kalpana.

The spark changes into fire and both are deeply in love. Sanjay however doesn't disclose his real identity to Kalpana. One fine day in a fight to save a group of young girls from some hooligans, Kalpana is killed and Sanjay is hit on his head by the rod, leading to short term memory loss and changing this romantic flick into a psychological thriller.

How Sanjay is able to take revenge when he cannot recognize the killers of his girlfriend where a medical student (Jiah Khan) helps him out is the story of Ghajini.

It is quite a the same kind of a story line but Aamir Khan's hot new look, South Indian heart throb Asin Thottumkal and sexy Jiah Khan are creating waves. To work with 'Mr. Perfectionist' Aamir Khan is 'a dream come true' for Kollywood's famous director A.R. Murugadoss. Sassy, slim, sexy yet intellectual Jiah Khan is playing the role of a medical student who helps Aamir take his revenge. This USP makes it special and somewhat different from its Tamil version.

Ghajini is the Hindi adaptation of 2005 Tamil hit by the same name which inturn is based on Christopher Nolan's Memento. The films title is inspired from Persian ruler Mahmud Of Ghazni , now in Afghanistan. He was also said to be suffering form short term memory loss.

Even though this film is a remake there is still a lot different from its original script. Director A R Murugadoss, has 20 minute sequence towards the end of the movie that makes the Hindi adaptation completely different.

As with Aamir Khan movies, there will be no special premier with this movie as well, but special previews would be held on Dec 24th, the film however releases on Dec 25th.

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Jiah Khan to do a 'Lopez' in Ghajini

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 01:48:00 +0000

The young bubbly girl who debuted as Amitabh Bachchan's muse in forgettable 'Nishabd' seems to have grown up and undergone a make over of sorts. Barely in her 20s, the lady from London who speaks,lives and breathes in English, had no idea what so ever about Bollywood's way of movie making. But just in her second venture, she somehow managed to grab the role which initially Kangana Ranaut was supposed to do; both ending up in cat fights, bollywood is so famous for.

Anyways, Jiah baby seems to be going strong, honing her skills as a dancer and even taking 'Urdu' classes for a lengthy dialogue in Aamir Khan's psychological thriller 'Ghajini'.

Her small role as 'Sunita', a medical student who studies Aamir Khan's character as part of her speciality and then gets involved in his personal hostility, has not been publicized much in the promos, but she ain't complaining. Backing on a sizzling dance number 'Lattoo', which is being called a 'La Lopez', she is already going a long way in her second film.

The dance number goes on air in just a few days. Hopefully we'll see her promos before the film releases. Don't miss it here!

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The Most Awaited Film of 2008

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 22:46:00 +0000

Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi Is Nostalgic

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 01:54:00 +0000

Grey pants, white shirt, big spectacles and a moustache lying blissfully underneath; meet Punjab Power’s unattractive and timid employee Surinder Sahni (Shahrukh Khan), who falls in love with very bubbly and vivacious Taani (Anushka Sharma); wanting a flamboyant and happy go lucky life partner, who could express his love openly unlike the character played by Shahrukh Khan. In a typical bollywood style they were brought together by turn of events.

Just a few minutes into the movie and Taani is jostling with her new life and has lost the ability to love because of the untimely death of her old love and her father. The yellow Tiffin carrying ‘Suri’ is head over heels in love with his wife and would go any length to make her feel comfortable and happy. Between miniscule exchanges of words and sleeping in different rooms, the average middle class husband is trying to make way ino the heart of his wife, who lives in a world of her own.

But how can a super star be made to stay as a cog in the sarkari office? This is where his friend Bobby Khosla (Vinay Pathak), a self-proclaimed hair stylist gives ‘Suri’ a complete makeover. Small-town-guy-trying-to-grab-attention by wearing tight bright colored T-shirts and ripped jeans with big sunglasses minus the moustache; “Raj”, Suri’s alter ego is born out of this extreme makeover. This very outspoken small town motor mechanic disguise ‘Raj’ does justice to Suri, by expressing love to ‘Taani’ with flamboyance and machismo, the ways that ‘Suri’ could never have. The over expressive ‘Jat’ with his crude ways was able to grab just the attention to place himself in Taani’s heart.

What is ‘Taani’ to do? Fall for this boisterous ‘Raj’ or for her 9to5 dull office going ‘Suri’? ‘Slow, soft and sweet’, Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi is a melodrama cum comedy which is more metaphorical than real.
The movie has a relatively small, three-member cast, very unlike Yashraj Films where grandeur, acting and emotions are all over played. The film is set in the narrow streets of Amritsar with self-inviting guests and interfering neighbors who are addressed typically as ‘Sharma ji’ and ‘Verma ji’.

A very strong disappointment however seems to be in the fact that has been overlooked in the movie. Taani has been portrayed as this small town girl who is smart enough and like any girl her age from Punjab, she knows how to ride a bike and show to her rival that she is no less. When Suri first meets Taani as Raj at the dancing class without the moustache, she could not recognize her husband. How can the director overlook such a strong point? Only does in the final part she correlate that her husband and Raj are same.

Another point is that even at 43, Shahrukh has managed to do a role as a romantic hero, jumping, dancing and singing like any newcomer. The charm is still the same but age certainly is showing on King Khan. Debutant Anushka Sharma as Taani has done some decent job.

Bollywood is known for its illogical storylines and only the team of King Khan and Aditya Chopra could have made people stay glued to their seats in the cocktail of emotions, dance and drama. Written, directed and produced by Aditya Chopra, this movie has four very hummable songs, written by Jaideep Sahni and music by Salim Suleiman. The movie medley’Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke’ number somehow seems more stuffed in but all the other songs seem well in place. The background score ‘haule haule’ gives a good lift to the character elements and is well kept with the timings of the characters.

Overall a nice movie, it will keep you hooked for 2 hours 40 minutes. Can be watched with entire family, it will make you laugh and cry. Don’t miss the end credit; they are worth waiting for.

The Petition

noreply@blogger.com (Neha) — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 03:59:00 +0000

Just a few weeks ago, it was heart wrecking to see what media across globe telecast ed again and again for minutes, hours and days. The terrorist attack on Mumbai.
The media's role became questionable. Did the terrorists get information from what was being shown as 'Live and Exclusive'. Of course they did, and it came at the cost of our men.
Please sign this petition, so that media is reminded it needs a heart too apart from TRPs and exclusives.

The Petition

Posted using ShareThis

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