Friday 21 October 2016

Richa Ranawat’s 'StyleInn' unveils an amazing Indo Western Fusion collection “WeDesi”

Celebrity fashion designer #Richa_Ranawat recently unveiled an amazing new Indo Western collection that has been named as “WeDesi” by her fashion line #StyleInn based in Mumbai.

richa-ranawats-styleinn-unveils-amazing-indo-western-fusion-collection-wedesi
These designs bring the best of two worlds together with sophisticated cuts from the west that are embellished with unique zardosi work from the east.

A brand from the exotic orient and with designs to suit the contemporary taste of a modern culture, “StyleInn” is a delightful mixture of stunning Indo western blend of trousseau and evening couture.

Richa not only cares but believes in women. There is a deep sense of pride in her own femininity and in giving other women a way of expressing that through fashion. She is honored to have the ability to make a woman feel bold and beautiful, comfortable and confident with herself.

Munir Khan’s Body Revival abstract selected for prestigious World Ayurveda Congress

Seventh edition of the prestigious #World_Ayurveda Congress is scheduled to be held in Kolkata from 1st to 4th December this year. 

munir-khans-body-revival-abstract-selected-for-prestigious-world-ayurveda-cogress
And Munir Khan, one of the most accomplished experts from the field, is also set to grace the event after his popular medicine Body Revival’s abstract was shortlisted for the event. 

His abstract was among the few selected out of a total 1724 abstracts received over a period of 10 weeks. His Body Revival's abstract successfully passed through the parameters of scientific perspective, study design, content, presentation and novelty of the idea and received a good rating on the committee's five-point scale.

Music is saving my life: Tom Jones

Singer #Tom_Jones, who lost his wife Linda to cancer earlier this year, says music is saving his life post her death.

music-is-saving-my-life-tom-jones
Jones has returned as a judge on the singing reality show "The Voice" as he feels the busier he is, the better he feels, reports dailymail.co.uk.

"I've got back on the stage. That first step was a big one. Now I realise music is saving my life," Jones told The Sun newspaper.

"When my wife passed away I didn't know if I would be able to sing again. It was devastating. The busier I am, the better I feel," he added.

Whole grain may reduce risk of heart disease

#Whole_grain diet may help to significantly lower the risk of #heart_disease in overweight and obese adults who are under the age of 50, finds a new study.

whole-grain-may-reduce-risk-of-heart-disease
The findings, published in the Journal of Nutrition suggested that whole grains can be a key regulator of blood pressure and could provide an effective nutritional strategy to reduce cardiovascular-related deaths and disorders.

"Heart disease and strokes are a leading cause of death. This research shows that eating whole grains reduces the risk of heart disease," Director of Metabolic Translational Research Center John Kirwan said.

Busy Sidharth taking some time off to New Zealand

#Sidharth_Malhotra, who is currently busy shooting for his next film with #Jacqueline_Fernandez, is set to fly to New Zealand for a quick gateway. The actor says that this will be his time-off from the busy schedule.

busy-sidharth-taking-some-time-off-to-new-zealand
Amidst the gruelling shoot schedule, the actor has decided to escape to the welcoming land of New Zealand and he can't wait for the trip to start as this will be his second time to the country and he plans to double the indulgence that he had during his first trip in 2005

"Taking some time off from my hectic schedule helps me focus my energies. Travelling new places and exploring new cultures is enriching for an actor.

'Life Flows On': A film dedicated to dementia, elderly care

"Life Flows On", a film dedicated to Global Dementia Challenge and Elderly Care, will release in select cities on Friday.

life-flows-on-film-dedicated-to-dementia-elderly-care
The film, 80 per cent of which has been shot in Uttarakhand, deals with lives of three dementia patients. It is being released in association with Carnival Cinemas. It has an Anglo-Indian cultural connection and how an Indian family system indicate towards some positive response, in dealing with the problem. 

"Life Flows On" had its world premiere on World Elderly Day on October 1 at the seventh Jagran Film Festival in Mumbai. 

The film stars Indian actor Tom Alter, Satyabrat Rout, Ganjendra Verma and British actor Allegra Dunn, Norwegian actor Astri Ghosh and French actor Michael Dieter. It is directed by Vishaal Nityanand.

Talking about the movie, Nityanand said: "I got involved with the issue three years back when I came across some real stories from different parts of India, of senior citizens suffering from Alzheimer's, shunned by their families.

Thursday 20 October 2016

Aamir Khan travels to Bhutan to advocate against malnutrition

Actor #Aamir_Khan, who is a Unicef Regional Goodwill Ambassador, took time out from his schedule to meet children affected by malnutrition here and to witness how the organisation is working to address stunting across the country.

aamir-khan-travels-to-bhutan-to-advocate-against-malnutrition
"While Bhutan has made amazing progress in areas of health and nutrition, there's still work to be done and every child is yet to be reached," Aamir said in a statement. 

Stunting, caused by chronic malnutrition, is endemic in South Asia with an estimated 38 per cent - 64 million - of children under five years of age affected by stunted growth, inhibiting children's cognitive and physical development and damaging growth in the region. In Bhutan, despite recent progress, one in five children remains stunted, according to Unicef.

Mukesh Bhatt meets Rajnath Singh for safe release of 'Ae Dil...'

#Mukesh_Bhatt, President of the Film and Television Producers Guild of India, on Thursday here met Union Home Minister #Rajnath_Singh, who assured them of a "great Diwali" with a safe and secure release of Karan Johar's "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil" on October 28 -- two days before the festival of lights.

mukesh-bhatt-meets-rajnath-singh-for-safe-release-of-ae-dil..
Bhatt, along with singer-politician Babul Supriyo, met Singh to appeal for security amid vandalism threats from the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), which is against the movie's release as it features Pakistani actor Fawad Khan.

"We are entertainers. We are interested in working with artistes, and not whether they belong to Pakistan, China or Africa," Bhatt told the media after meeting Singh.

Roshan Abbas to return to direction in 2017

TV anchor-writer-director #Roshan_Abbas took a break from film direction post the debacle of his debut film "Always Kabhi Kabhi". However, he promises to return to direction in 2017 with a story based on relationships.

roshan-abbas-to-return-to-direction-in-2017
Roshan told: "I have been working on this nice love story which is about relationships. It's about marriage and that's something which is looking very promising. I think our audiences are also ready for it and believe me, I will surprise you all by 2017. I will be back next year 101 per cent."

He says he keeps analyzing what went wrong with his first film "Always Kabhi Kabhi".

"I am a real kind of a person. I thought I made my first film and it didn't work, so what went wrong. Somewhere, I felt that I was trying to speak to the really younger generation with a bolder outlook. If I want a second opportunity to put a film out there, I want to be extremely sure of it," Abbas said.

"I actually wrote a script called 'NH8' and as I was about to start shooting it, 'NH10' was around. I was like how can this happen. There are ideas that exist and they are out there in the open," he added.

Richa Ranawat unveils WeDesi collection

Fashion Designer #Richa_Ranawat has unveiled a new Indo-Western line titled #WeDesi under her label StyleInn, based here.

richa-ranawat-unveils-wedesi-collection
The designs bring the best of two worlds together with sophisticated cuts from the West that are embellished with unique Zardozi work from the East.

StyleInn is an Indo-western blend of trousseau and evening couture.

Ranawat participated in a fashion show and exhibition titled Lakme Sri Lanka Fashion Week by Divalicious at Taj Samudra Colombo on October 8.

I love shooting in New York: Priyanka Chopra

Indian actress #Priyanka_Chopra says she loves to shoot in New York, adding the energy of the city is amazing.

i-love-shooting-in-new-york-priyanka-chopra
The actress is busy shooting for the second season of American TV show "Quantico" here. She also thanked city Mayor Bill de Blasio for helping the team of the show shoot in the US city. 

"First and foremost, I want to thank the mayor and his office for helping bring this show to New York, we know about your contribution and are really grateful," Priyanka said in a statement. 

The "Bajirao Mastani" actress added: "Second of all, it's New York city, it's the center of the universe and for me, you know what is best about it is that I can fly back to India on a direct flight. So I love shooting in this city, the energy is amazing, I have a beautiful house on the east side, Thank you Mayor."

Now a film on India's surgical strikes

#Dera_Sacha_Sauda chief #Gurmeet_Ram_Rahim_Singh is set to make a film on #surgical_strikes that India conducted on terror launch pads across the Line of Control (LoC). It will be titled "MSG - The Lionheart - Hind ka NaPak Ko Jawab".

now-film-on-indias-surgical-strikes
"I am going to start 'MSG - The Lionheart - Hind Ka NaPak Ko Jawab'. In the film, I will highlight the current situation of our country and answer even those who are asking to prove the surgical strike. Hopefully, we will complete the film within 25 days," Singh said at the success party of his film "MSG: The Warrior Lion Heart".

"The film revolves around the terrorists and jawans (soldiers). It will also talk about the surgical strikes," he added, referring to the surgical strikes carried out by the Indian Army on terror launch pads across the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir last month.

'Dear Zindagi' trailer reveals a new SRK

The setting for Gauri Shinde's second film "Dear Zindagi" is Goa. The teaser opens magnificently to the sound of waves and seagulls. Before superstar #Shah_Rukh_Khan or his endearing co-star #Alia_Bhatt make an appearance, one can hear his voice.

dear-zindagi-trailer-reveals-new-srk
He is saying that his father will bring him to the beach to play 'kabaddi' with waves.

SRK then proceeds to show Alia how. Her embarrassment, amazement, surprise and delight are contagious. The sequence is vintage Goan nostalgia -- mixing the odour of memory with the magical pleasure of the moment when the present company seems as perfect as it can get.

Shah Rukh looks very happy in Alia's company.

Karan Johar 'stressed out' and said all what he feels: Farah

#Karan_Johar is "stressed out" and he has said all what he feels, said Director-Choreographer #Farah_Khan on Wednesday reacting to Karan Johar's video message clarifying his stand on #Pakistani_artistes working in India.

karan-johar-stressed-out-and-said-all-what-he-feels-farah
"We were shooting together yesterday. Karan is a dear friend of mine. I know he is stressed out and he has said it all what he feels," she said when asked about controversy over "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil" which features Pakistani actor Fawad Khan in an important role.

"Karan will never do anything that is not patriotic. All of us feel like that. The statement has finally arrived and it says it all. Now matter should be put to rest," she added.

"There are a lot of things that bother us. Let's not get into those things because whenever we open our mouth we get into trouble," Farah said.

The "Happy New Year" helmer who has opened a dance school was speaking to the media at an interaction session with the students on Wednesday.

Quizzed, according to her who is the best dancer in Bollywood, the 42-year-old choreographer said Govinda is the best as his dance brings a smile on her face and she feels happy to see him grooving.

Pakistani 'chai wala' turns model

A blue-eyed young 'chai wala' (tea seller) from Pakistan, who became an internet sensation after his photo was posted on Instagram, has got the job of a model.

pakistani-chai-wala-turns-model
Retail site fitin.pk has signed on the youngster, Arshad Khan, as a model for an undisclosed amount and his first shoot is already out, the Dawn reported on Wednesday.

His photo was posted by an aspiring photographer, Jiah Ali, on October 14. It was picked up in the West, including the popular US website Buzzfeed.

One of 18 siblings, Arshad hails from Kohat and has been making tea at Islamabad's Sunday Bazaar for three months. He has never been to school. 

According to Dawn, Arshad doesn't know when his photograph was taken or who took it.

I was a fashion victim: Shahid Kapoor

Actor #Shahid_Kapoor, who has launched his own fashion brand called #SKULT, says there was a time when he had poor sense of fashion.

i-was-fashion-victim-shahid-kapoor
"I think I was a fashion victim 10 years back. I had absolutely no idea about what to wear or where to buy. I didn't have any knowledge of Google or social media where you could discover what's going on," Shahid said here. 

He launched his fashion brand on Tuesday here, and it will be exclusively available on Abof.

The actor said: "I would wear a bright yellow T-shirt, tight jeans and boots, and thought it was cool. So, it's been a long journey. In last 2-3 years, I understood a little bit about style and wanted to express myself in the fashion line."

Wednesday 19 October 2016

I don't think Indian showbiz is fairness driven: Ileana D'Cruz

Actress Ileana D'Cruz, who endorses Pond's White Beauty, believes Indian showbiz is not driven by skin colour.

i-dont-think-indian-showbiz-is-fairness-driven-iieana-dcruz
She doesn't consider herself fair and says she falls in "the tanned category".

"I don't consider myself fair. I think I am in the tanned category. I don't think we are fairness driven. We have some actresses and models who are really dusky and gorgeous, and I truly believe skin colour doesn't matter," Ileana told.

"I feel being healthy is beautiful and being happy is beautiful. That's what I endorse," Ileana said.

For me, India comes first: Karan Johar

Filmmaker #Karan_Johar on Tuesday expressed his hurt on being labelled "anti-national" ahead of the release of his directorial "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil" (#ADHM), which stars Pakistani actor #Fawad_Khan and said he would not engage with talent from Pakistan "in the circumstance".

for-me-india-comes-first-karan-johar
However, he also appealed that the efforts of his 300-member Indian crew must be considered before hindering the release of the love saga, which faces a vandalism threat from right-wing Hindu outfits amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan.

After a longstanding silence on the issue, Karan opened up in a video statement issued on his behalf on Tuesday.

In the video, he said: "Remained silent because of deep sense of hurt that I felt, that there are a few people who actually believe that I am being anti-national. I need to say this and I say this with strength that for me this country comes first," Karan said.

Fox Star Studios stands by Karan Johar for 'Ae Dil...' release

Filmmaker #Karan_Johar is a patriotic Indian whose nationalism cannot be questioned, says #Vijay_Singh, CEO of Fox Star Studios that is distributing 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil'.

fox-star-studios-stands-by-karan-johar
Singh said in a statement: "Karan Johar is a proud, emotional and patriotic Indian like all of us and his nationalism cannot be questioned. Fox Star Studios, India, whole-heartedly stands by him at this time."

He said his team is slated for the Diwali release of 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil' on October 28.

Soon, a Candy Crush TV show

A #Candy_Crush TV show is coming soon.

CBS has given a series order to a TV adaptation of the popular mobile game "Candy Crush Saga".

soon-candy-crush-tv-show
The hour-long series will feature teams of two players competing against giant interactive game boards to defeat obstacles and move through various levels to be crowned "Candy Crush" champion. The show promises to offer a play-along option for viewers at home, reports variety.com.

Matt Kunitz created the TV format and executive produces for Lionsgate, CBS Television Studios, Pulse Creative and "Candy Crush" distributor King. Peter Levin, Lionsgate's head of interactive and games, Striker Entertainment's Russell Binder, King's Nicki Sheard and "Candy Crush Saga" creator Sebastian Knutsson are also executive producers.

Feel guilty to see women fast on Karva Chauth: Big B

Megastar #Amitabh_Bachchan, who is married to actress #Jaya_Bachchan, says it is overwhelming to see "the devotion and care" with which wives observe the #Karva_Chauth fast. But he also feels guilty to see them fast the entire day.

feel-guilty-to-see-women-fast-on-karva-chauth-big-b
On Karva Chauth, Hindu women mostly in north India, observe a day-long fast with no food or water for their husband's long life. They eat only after praying to the moon. 

The 74-year-old actor took to his blog to talk about the rituals attached to Karva Chauth, which falls on October 19 this year.

He posted: "On the occasion of ‘karaka chaturthi' or that which is more commonly known as ‘karva chauth', my greetings to all...wives in particular, who shall fast the entire day until they see the moon at night, all for the welfare of their husbands. Some traditions never die." 

Minority communities' artisans to showcase talent at IITF

Artisans belonging to minority communities will showcase their wares and talent at the India International Trade Fair (#IITF) this year, Minority Affairs Minister #Mukhar_Abbas_Naqvi said here on Tuesday.

minority-communities-artisans-to-showcase-talent-at-iitf
A "Hunar Haat", an exhibition of handicrafts, embroidery etc. being organised by the Ministry of Minority Affairs, will see participation from "every corner of the country", Naqvi said.

"For the first time, these talented artisans/craftsmen from far-flung areas of the country are being provided an opportunity to showcase their skills at national cum international level under one roof," the minister said.

Why teenagers indulge in risk-taking behaviour

If you find your teenage son indulging in alcohol or drugs, do not just blame his peers. A specific imbalance in the functioning of his brain may put him at risk-taking behaviour risk, a study has found.

why-teenagers-indulge-in-risk-taking-behaviour
The study conducted on animals showed that the adolescent-specific behaviour may be driven by an imbalance in activity between the prefrontal cortex (PFC) -- an area of the brain involved in cognitive control and inhibition -- and the nucleus accumbens (NAC) which plays a central role in reward-seeking and addiction. 

Researchers from Dartmouth College in New Hampshire in the US said that the low activity in PFC with concurrent high activity in NAC -- an imbalance which appears to exist only during adolescence -- is essentially at odds with each other.

Short walks after meals can help reduce diabetes

Taking a short walk after meals, particularly when they contain a substantial amount of carbohydrates, can help people with Type 2 diabetes reduce their blood sugar levels, a study has found.

short-walks-after-meals-can-help-reduce-diabetes
The findings showed that post-meal blood sugar levels dropped 12 per cent on average when the participants followed the "walking after meals" advice compared to walking at any time of the day.

"Most of this effect came from the highly significant 22 per cent reduction in blood sugar when walking after evening meals, which were the most carbohydrate heavy, and were followed by the most sedentary time," said lead author Andrew Reynolds from University of Otago in New Zealand. 

Post-meal glucose is regarded as an important target in managing Type 2 diabetes, given its independent contribution to overall blood sugar control and cardiovascular risk, added Jim Mann, professor at University of Otago.

Neil Nitin Mukesh to fast for Rukmini on Karwa Chauth

Bollywood actor #Neil_Nitin_Mukesh will be fasting along his fiancee #Rukmini_Sahay on the occasion of #Karwa_Chauth on Wednesday.

neil-nitin-mukesh-to-fast-for-rukmini-on-karwa-chauth
"Rukmini is quite traditional in her upbringing and I would like to support her wherever I can," Neil said in a statement. 

According to a source close to the actor, there will be a traditional ceremony at Neil's south Mumbai residence. He will also gift her a special pair of handcrafted Kundan bangles.

Neil, grandson of legendary singer Mukesh, got engaged to Mumbai-based Rukmini at a ceremony attended by close family and friends on the auspicious occasion of Dussehra earlier this month. They will tie the knot early next year.

Gallery StyleInn At Lakme Sri Lanka Fashion Week

Fashion show participants at the “Lakme SriLanka Fashion Week” were Neeta Lulla, Babita Malkani, Sonaakshi Raaj, Nishka Lulla, SVA by Sonam & Paras Modi, Aarti Vijay Gupta, Valliyan, Amor Faith Hope, Seams Pret and Couture.

gallery-styleinn-at-lakme-sri-lanka-fashion-week

Cumberbatch to start filming for ' Avengers...' early 2017

Actor #Benedict_Cumberbatch will return as Doctor Strange in the next instalment of "The Avengers". He will start filming for it early next year, says #Marvel_Studios.

cumberbatch-to-start-filming-for-avengers-early-2017
Cumberbatch is yet to debut on the big screen as the powerful sorcerer, but he has already been signed up to feature in the next part of the popular "The Avengers" movie.

"He (Cumberbatch as Doctor Strange) is going to be in a number of our upcoming movies. He starts filming the next Avengers movie early next year. He will definitely be in the Avengers movie," Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige told during a promotion of "Doctor Strange" here.

Amy Jackson showstopper for Rocky S in Paris

British model #Amy_Jackson, who has featured in Indian films like "Singh Is Bling" and "Freaky Ali", will catwalk as a showstopper for popular designer Rocky Star at the French European Indian Fashion Week here.

amy-jackson-showstopper-for-rocky-s-in-paris
Amy will be seen walking on the runway on October 23 at the iconic Eiffel Tower here.

"It is always exciting to walk for a designer who is a friend because you understand each other's ideologies better, which in turn manifests on the ramp. I am delighted to be the muse for Rocky S," Amy said in a statement. 

Talking about the collection, the actress said: "His collections perfectly complement my style -- effortless and elegant. I look forward to have a great time walking for his show."

The designer will be showcasing a Spring Summer 2017 collection titled Shringara, celebrating love manifested in decorative prints, featuring handcrafted textures and opulent embroideries.

"Shringara is inspired by the modern women of today; strong, independent yet feminine. I believe Amy Jackson perfectly embodies these attributes with complete ease," said Rocky S, who feels Amy "carries any outfit effortlessly".

‘Shut In' to release on November 18 in India

Actors #Naomi_Watts and #Jacob_Tremblays forthcoming horror thriller film "Shut In" will release in India on November 18, one week after its US release.

shut-in-to-release-on-november-18-in-indiaThe film will be released in India by PVR Pictures, read a statement.

Directed by Farren Blackburn, "Shut In" tells the story of a widowed child psychologist who lives an isolated existence in rural New England. Caught in a deadly winter storm, she must find a way to rescue a young boy before he disappears forever.

Watts is best known for her roles in films like "21 Grams", "The Impossible", "King Kong" and "Adore".

Richa Chadha, Vicky Kaushal together in funny AIB video

Actors #Richa_Chadha and #Vicky_Kaushal, who didn't have many scenes together in "#Masaan", are now shooting for a new video by comedy collective All India Bakchod (AIB).

richa-chadha-vicky-kaushal-together-in-funny-aib-video
AIB keeps coming up with new content and parodies, and of what it seems from some photographs available from Richa and Vicky's shoot, they are likely to be doing something related to songs from the different eras of Bollywood.

Tanmay Bhat of AIB is directing the video, which will show the actors in a new avatar as they groove to some memorable tunes from over the years. There are in all six songs which have have been revived for the video and the costumes of those songs too were custom-made for Richa and Vicky, said a source in the know of developments.

"Richa and Vicky has rehearsed for this video extensively. Audience will get to see a whole new side to them. They are doing some amazing choreography, lip syncing to revived Bollywood numbers from the 1970s till now," the source added.

,

Tuesday 18 October 2016

RIFF 2016 concludes with folksy tunes, jazzy beats

The five-day-long Rajasthan International Folk Festival (#RIFF) 2016 reached its peak with back-to-back performances by #Rajasthani_folk and international musicians, running till late night and stretching up to the wee hours with a dawn concert on the concluding day.

riff-2016-concludes-with-folksy-tunes-jazzy-beats
Smita Bellur opened the fourth day (Sunday) at Jodhpur RIFF with her spiritual vocals in Kannada, Hindi and Urdu. Her vocal performance in Hindustani and Carnatic music was uplifting and heart-warming for the listeners at the dawn concert.

A focused session on the aero-phonic instruments of Rajasthan was held in the afternoon featuring rare and fast disappearing instruments of Rajasthan which include the algoza, narh, murla, murli, been, and surnai among others.

'xXx...' trailer out in four languages for Indian fans

The action-packed trailer of Hollywood film "xXx: Return of Xander Cage" trailer has been launched across four languages -- English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.

xxx-trailer-out-in-four-languages-for-indian-fans
The variation in languages ensures the trailer -- which has a focus on Deepika -- is tailor-made for the Indian audience, read a statement issued on behalf of the film's makers.

Deepika plays a character named Serena Unger in the upcoming international film, which features Vin Diesel in a key role.

Route to get glowing skin for Karwa Chauth

Use baby oil, rose water and milk masks to get your skin glowing for the festival of #Karwa_Chauth, which will be celebrated on Wednesday, says an expert.

route-to-get-glowing-skin-for-karwa-chauth
Naresh Arora, founder of Chase Aromatherapy Cosmetics and Chase Skin Care Institute, has listed some easy skincare tips. 

♦ Increase the intake of water. Drink around 6-8 glasses of water to stay fully hydrated. This will help in releasing all the toxins from the body increasing skin illumination.

♦ Use rose water for washing and cleaning the face. Keep the rose water refrigerated and spray it all over the face after regular intervals so that no dirt stays on.

♦ Instead of taking caffeine in the form of tea or coffee, take green tea. Generally, ladies think consuming caffeine will help them stay active and energetic during the day. This is not the healthy option. It might strip off the body's moisture leaving you dehydrated. Green tea is not only good for your skin but rejuvenates stomach also.

Asian Hawkers Market add more variety for third edition

Food festival Asian Hawkers Market -- a fest which brings cuisine from the Far East to Southeast Asia under one roof -- will be back with its third edition here.

asian-hawkers-market-add-more-variety-for-third-edition
In association with Veeba Food Services Pvt Ltd, the three-day festival will start from Friday at Select City Walk mall at Saket here.

The food festival will have restaurateur Zorawar Kalra, who is seen judging the fifth season of cooking-based reality TV show "MasterChef India", taking part in the fest with his restaurant Pa Pa Ya. 

The other debutantes include Burma Burma, with its all-vegetarian menu, Aftab Sidhu's Jom Jom Malay, Pan-Asian restaurant of Westin Gurgaon; Ping's Cafe Orient, Wai Wai City, Wok Tok (The Grand New Delhi), which is making its debut with Executive Chef Nilesh Dey.

Chanderi weaves, metallics stand out at AIFW SS'17

The Spring-Summer edition of Amazon India Fashion Week (#AIFW) 2017 concluded with a bang, leaving behind many #fashion_trends. It's time to stock up your wardrobe with #chanderi_fabric, metallic embellishments and learn the art of layering, says an expert.

chanderi-weaves-metallics-stand-out-at-aifwss17
Arun Sirdeshmukh, head at Amazon Fashion, said that the fashion gala which started on Wednesday and concluded on Sunday "brought back our Indian heritage to mainstream fashion".

Sirdeshmukh said: "This season of AIFW offered glimpses of many eclectic trends right from chanderi silks to Indian dyes."

Narendra Kumar, Creative Director at Amazon Fashion, lists down some trends from the gala. 

Vidya Balan 'wanted' in 'Kahaani 2'

The first teaser poster for filmmaker #Sujoy_Ghosh's much awaited suspense thriller "#Kahaani_2" came out on Tuesday, and actress #Vidya_Balan is "most wanted" as her character Durga Rani Singh is charged with kidnapping and murder.

vidya-balan-wanted-in-kahaani-2
Vidya, who also featured in the 2012 film "Kahaani", will be essaying a 36-year-old woman wanted for kidnapping and murder in the second installment of the suspense thriller.

The teaser poster shows a photograph of "The Dirty Picture" star, who is sporting a de-glam look. The poster also reads: "Wanted for kidnapping and murder... Anyone with information regarding this fugitive should contact...."

"Kahaani 2" is jointly produced by Kushal Kantilal Gada, Dhaval Jayantilal Gada, Aksshay Jayantilal Gada and Sujoy Ghosh. The film, which is slated to hit the screens on December 2, also features Arjun Rampal in a key role.

SRK says he will miss Anushka Sharma

Superstar #Shah_Rukh_Khan says he will miss actress #Anushka_Sharma, who has wrapped up the schedule for their upcoming film directed by #Imtiaz_Ali.

srk-says-he-will-miss-anushka-sharma
Shah Rukh tweeted on Tuesday: "Anushka Sharma wrapped the schedule of film allegedly called 'The Ring'. Will miss her lots...kya karein (What to do)...‘Aye Dil Hai Mushkil'. Thanks for being you."

"The Ring" is the first time the "Don" star is collaborating with director Imtiaz Ali for a film. They had recently wrapped up the Prague schedule of the shoot.

'Baahubali 2...' first look to be showacased at MAMI

#Jio_MAMI_Movie_Mela with Star will showcase the first look of S.S. Rajamouli's "#Baahubali_2: The Conclusion" on October 22 here.

baahubali-2-first-look-to-be-showacased-at-mami
The Movie Mela will host the historical fiction's cast, including Rana Daggubati and Anushka Shetty, who will share their experiences on the making of the movie.

"Baahubuli" team will also launch the teaser to a virtual reality spin-off film set around the world of Baahubali, and give the audience a sneak-peek into a game and comic based on the epic franchise.

Parineeti, Sushant excited for 'Takadum' journey

Actors #Parineeti_Chopra and #Sushant_Singh_Rajput have started working for their upcoming film "#Takadum", and they are excited about the new journey.

parineeti-sushant-excited-for-takadum-journey
Parineeti on Monday shared a photograph of herself with Sushant reading the script for the film by Homi Adajania.

"It begins. So excited for this new journey! Readings with my man Sushant Singh Rajput, Homi Adajania...'Takadum'," Parineeti captioned the image. 

The story about "Takadum" is still under wraps. This will be the second time that Sushant and Parineeti will be sharing screen space together. They had earlier worked in the 2013 film "Shuddh Desi Romance". 

'Break up song' in ADHM promotes women empowerment: Karan Johar

"The breakup song" from "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil" is striking the right chords and sending out a message that a breakup doesnt always have to end on a sour note and in tears. Filmmaker #Karan_Johar says the song is all about women empowerment.

break-up-song-in-adhm-promotes-women-empowerment
The song shows #Anushka_Sharma and #Ranbir_Kapoor celebrating a breakup, and is all about how moving on can be easy. 

"'The break up song' is all about women empowerment. Breaking up should be as quick and easy as falling in love," Karan said in a statement. 

Karan talked about the song when actress Neha Dhupia inquired about it at Absolut Elyx Filmfare Glamour & Style Awards here. 

With Pritam's music, the quirky and fun dance number is sung by Arijit Singh, Badshah, Jonita Gandhi and Nakash Aziz. 

Taraji P Henson talks about Hollywood's pay gap in memoir

A new memoir by "Empire" star #Taraji_P_Henson claims that she was paid far less than her fellow actors, saying she was passed over for a role written for her in favour of a white colleague.

taraji-p-henson-talks-about-hollywoods-pay-gap-in-memoir
In "Around the Way", she also shares that she was paid less than 2 percent of what co-star Brad Pitt received for the Academy Award winning film "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button", reports theguardian.com.

In "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button", Henson played the role of adoptive mother of Pitt's character, a role for which she won an Academy Award nomination in Supporting Actress category, but was forced to pay for her own accommodation costs for the shoot.

"Both Brad and Cate (Cate Blanchett) got millions. Me? With bated breath, I sat by the phone for hours, waiting for Vince (her manager) to call and tell me the number that I thought would make me feel good: somewhere in the mid six figures – no doubt a mere percentage of what Brad was bringing home to Angelina and their beautiful babies, but something worthy of a solid up-and-coming actress with a decent amount of critical acclaim for her work. 

Natalie Portman's children are her 'good luck charms'

Actress #Natalie_Portman says her children are her "good luck charms".

natalie-portmans-children-are-her-good-luck-charms
The 35-year-old, who is currently expecting her second child with husband Benjamin Millepied, won the Best Actress Oscar award for her performance in "Black Swan" in 2011, when she was pregnant with their son Aleph, now five.

While she doesn't think her pregnancy won her the award, she does believe that her children are "miracles" who make her happy.

"I think (children are) good luck charms in life. They're the best things. The best main miracles. I don't necessarily connect it (to winning an Oscar), but it is certainly a joy," Portman told etonline.com.

Sharmila Tagore loved Soha's de-glam look in '31st October'

Actress #Soha_Ali_Khan says her mother and veteran actress #Sharmila_Tagore loved her de-glam look in the forthcoming film "#31st_October" -- based on the anti-Sikh riots in the aftermath of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's assassination in 1984.

sharmila-tagore-loved-sohas-de-glam-look-in-31st-october
"My mother came to know about this film through a friend. She watched the trailer and loved my non-glamourous look in the film. She appreciated my appearance as a Sardarni and in the second half she said I am looking like a Bengali while disguising as a Hindu during the escape," Soha said at a film's press conference here. 

The "Rang De Basanti" actress added that her mother also expressed her eagerness to watch the film. 

High BMI bad for your brain

If you wish to stay sharp in later years of life, better watch your weight now. Researchers have found that a higher body mass index, or #BMI, can negatively impact cognitive functioning in older adults.

high-bmi-bad-for-your-brain
Higher BMI may lead to increased inflammation which can negatively impact brain function and cognition, the researchers explained.

"The higher your BMI, the more your inflammation goes up," said lead author of the study Kyle Bourassa from University of Arizona in the US.

The researchers analysed data from the English Longitudinal Study of Aging, which includes over 12 years' worth of information on the health, well-being and social and economic circumstances of the English population age 50 and older.

Monday 17 October 2016

JJ Valaya ends AIFW SS'17 with panache

With much grandeur, glitz, live music and jazzed up lights, ace designer JJ Valaya and Alpana-Neeraj went all out at the grand finale of the Amazon India Fashion Week (#AIFW) Spring-Summer 2017 here on Sunday.

jj-valaya-ends-aifw-ss17-with-panache
Starting with a voice-over by actor Kabir Bedi talking about 'guru shishya parampara', the much awaited night began with a beautiful Kathak dance performance.

Lights suspended from the ceiling lent beauty and glamour to the simple ramp while live Rajasthani folk singers gave a rustic touch to the grand showcase of glittery collections.

"The theme was India - modern and festive. Though we pulled through, it was quite a challenge," Alpana told media here.

Vidyut Jammwal grooves to 'Uptown Funk' on AIFW runway

Actor #Vidyut_Jammwal walked the ramp for designer #Pawan_Sachdeva, who showcased his menswear collection on the ramp for the first time at Amazon India Fahion Week (#AIFW) Spring-Summer 2017, here on Sunday.

vidyut-jammwal-grooves-to-uptown-funk-on-aifw-runway
The collection, had the dapper looking models clad in "easy, sporty, comfortable yet different" designs in the form of statement bombers, light summer jackets and biker jackets.

The models took the the ramp with singer Bruno Mars's hit songs like 'Uptown funk', in attires which ranged from slate and azure shades to hues of black.

When Vidyut stepped on the ramp, the actor, who is known for his work in southern cinema, could be seen grooving to the music, thoroughly enjoying himself. He was welcomed with great cheer by the audience.

Top 10 tweeted food list has just one healthy item!

If tweets can reveal something about our health, researchers have some bad news. In a list of top 10 tweeted foods in the US, they found only one item - chicken - that could be considered healthy food.

top-10-tweeted-food-list-has-just-one-healthy-item
Coffee was the most tweeted food in the US between mid-2014 to mid-2015 followed by beer then pizza, the study revealed.

Chicken, the only food that can be considered healthy, came seventh in the list.

For the study, scientists at University of Utah surveyed nearly 80 million Twitter messages -- a random sample of one percent of publicly available, geotagged tweets -- over the course of one year.

Azealia Banks claims Russell Crowe assaulted her in hotel room

Rapper #Azealia_Banks has accused actor #Russell_Crowe of physically abusing her, and also claimed that he had allegedly passed a racist remark.

azealia-banks-claims-russell-crowe-assaulted-her-in-hotel-room
"To recap my night, I went to a party at Russell Crowe's suite, at which he called me a n****r, choked me, threw me out and spat at me," Banks wrote on Facebook on Sunday, reports dailymail.co.uk.

"Last night was one of the hardest nights of sleep I've had in a long time. The men in the room allowed it to happen. I feel terrible today," she added.

Sunny Leone says she's turning vegan

Actress #Sunny_Leone, a vegetarian, says her doctor has told her to stay away from alcohol, dairy products and spicy food.

sunny-leone-says-shes-turning-vegan
"(I am) not well and my blood needs to be purified from infection and there is too much heat in my body," Sunny, 35, posted on Twitter. "So I'm drinking special bad tasting tea."

"Sad morning! My traditional Chinese medicine doctor has told me - no caffeine, no alcohol, no dairy, no meat (I'm veg so that's fine) and no spicy food. 

"I believe in traditional Chinese medicine and I guess its God's way of telling me I'm turning into a vegan, no alcohol... Caffeine... No toxins," she added.

In Bollywood films, skin show is in

After the trailer of Aditya Chopra's "Befikre", where both Ranveer Singh and Vaani Kapoor are shown stripping to their bare essentials and smooching ceaselesly, it is now television stars Gurmeet Choudhary and Sana Khan making a do-or-die attempt to be noticed with their flamboyant fornication in the trailer "Wajah Tum Ho".

in-bollywood-films-skin-show-is-in
The trailer of the Vishal Pandya directorial brims over with cheap erotica. We can almost smell the sweaty anxiety to get the audience in to watch these semi-newcomers (both Gurmeet and Sana have made a few foiled attempts to conquer the large screen) as they frolic, fornicate and groan in ecstasy.

The kisses are no cheat intimacy. Gurmeet and Sana lock lips with a torrid passion that James Bond would approve of. Then midway through the trailer, Rajniesh Duggall also joins the intimacy binge. We see Sana moaning and writhing on top of Rajniesh as well. So we can safely assume she finds both her heroes appealing enough.