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With a free spirit
A revolutionary is comprehending floating a national party, a pretty looking mother of twins punches her way to glory, a nation wakes up to the death of a superstar, a sexy siren makes half the nation go merry-go-around, a 'punctual' actor stirs a wave by forcing people to think….every day, every minute our country creates stories and then thrives on them for sometime before moving on to a new one! And all this is possible because 'they' and we have the independence, the freedom to say and do. Independence… the word sums up all our actions, all our controversies and spicy news that we stir. We catch up with some celebrities on the issue.
Being free:
Aarya Babbar, actor Freedom to me I felt proud When I was stopped Keeping track Do we have freedom? Proud moment Freedom misused Give me a better place We have done it Saluting heroes Love all Do what you want Proud Indian Being grateful Life is freedom Too profound |
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National alert!
Come Independence Day and we all are overwhelmed by the spirits of patriotism. And when it comes to the National Anthem, the fervour increases manifold. Remember your school days, when the gatherings for the morning assemblies concluded with the National Anthem or the college and university days when on Independence Day or Republic Day one was actually forced to join in the humming? Here's a quick check on when youngsters sang the National Anthem the last time around.
For Anil Bhandari, a student of UIET, Panjab University, it has been an astounding six years. "We, the youth of today, are so caught up with our lives that the patriotic feeling is totally missing." So, we can't even take out just fifty-two seconds for our National Anthem! "I bet that even if a day is chosen for a formal gathering of the students for the anthem, most of them will not turn up," adds Anil. Should not our heads hang in shame? Anil is not alone. "I sung it during my school days," says Rahul, a third-year physics student from PU. But he adds, "The National Anthem should be sung whenever possible, before starting with any kind of routine - be it studies or work," adds Rahul. We can at least assume everyone knows the lyrics by heart! Leaving out certain national holidays, where some decorum is maintained insofar as flag-hoisting is concerned, where else does the anthem find a place? "I saw Mere Brother Ki Dulhan at the Fun Republic, Mani Majra, and that was the last time I hummed the anthem," recalls Kanika Bansal, a lawyer from Chandigarh. "There also some people were standing and some were busy chatting away," adds Kanika. This way, the anthem is losing its importance and one day will be forgotten! "When I was in school we used to get together for the anthem on a regular basis, but now that I'm working things are not the same," explains Shirin Mann, an employee of a private company. "Our culture is getting diluted but we should not forget to sing it at least on Independence Day and Republic Day at the work places itself," adds Shirin. Well said, Jai Hind! sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com
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It’s a boy!
"We're in awe...we can't take our eyes off him. Ford is a rockstar," Routh said. The 34-year-old Parenthood actress and Routh worked hard to keep their pregnancy news under wraps. Routh, 32, and Ford met in 2003 while he was still working as a bartender in Hollywood. The couple tied the knot in 2007. —PTI First timers: Brandon Routh with Courtney Ford
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Leading by example
Affleck himself is a celeb Do Something nominee, along with Kristen Bell, Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus, Nicole Richie, Neil Patrick Harris, Channing Tatum, Emma Stone and more. The issue most important to the father of three is fostering development opportunities for residents of the war-torn Eastern Congo. In 2009, Affleck founded the Eastern Congo Initiative to help the cause. —PTI
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Man of the moment
"This is probably the most fun. I didn't have to campaign for it. They wanted me. They opened their arms and took me in, and that makes it all the better," Diamond said. The singer later joked about the honour on his Twitter page after the ceremony, linking a photo from the event and writing, "Superstar-shmooperstar. Katie still makes me take out the garbage." —PTI
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Pooja wants Alia, Ranbir for Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahi remake
Actress-turned-director Pooja Bhatt is keen to remake her own film Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahi with sister Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor in the lead. The 1991 film Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahi was directed by Mahesh Bhatt and featured Pooja and Aamir Khan.
"I would love to remake Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahi with Alia and Ranbir Kapoor in the lead. I think if there is anyone, who could take my place in that film, then it is Alia. And as far as Aamir's character is concerned I think Ranbir is the best choice," Pooja said. "I am dreaming about this. It is my dream to cast them," she added. In Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahi Pooja played the role of a daughter of a rich shipping tycoon – Anupam Kher, while Aamir played a reporter. Meanwhile, Alia is making her debut in Bollywood with Karan Johar's upcoming directorial venture Student of the Year. In the film, Alia stars opposite newcomers Siddharth Malhotra and Varun Dhawan, son of director David Dhawan. The film produced by Karan Johar and co-produced by Shah Rukh Khan, releases on October 19. Pooja is elated after seeing the first trailer of Student of the Year and is all praise for Alia. "Alia is fabulous. We are happy that she is making her debut with a film like Student of the Year. We have seen the trailer and it is amazing, Alia looks brilliant. Looking at it, I feel a new star is born," Pooja said. — PTI
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Miley cuts her hair!
Before getting the haircut, Cyrus, who is engaged to actor Liam Hemsworth, posted a picture of hairstylist Chris McMillan holding a scissor and aiming it at her bun. "It's happening. If you don't have something nice to say don't say anything at all. My hair is attached to my head no one else's and it's going bye bye," she said. Wearing denim shorts, boots and a black loose top, Cyrus looked boyish with her dramatic short hair. "I feel pretty ohhhh so pretty and gayyyy (sic). Bliss," she added. Actresses like Anne Hathaway, Carey Mulligan and Emma Watson have also adopted the pixie look recently. —PTI
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Keira Knightley to join Jack Ryan?
The actress has beaten a number of Hollywood beauties like Evangeline Lilly and Felicity Jones to take on the part. This is the first time Knightley will be collaborating with Branagh, who also takes a supporting role in the untitled project. Serving as a prequel to Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan novel series, the forthcoming film follows Pine's titular character who is a Moscow-based financial analyst. —PTI
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Bollywood banks on Sajid-Farhad’s funny punch lines
If the Hinglish of Ajay Devgn in Bol Bachchan or the crocodile biting John Abraham in Housefull 2 could tickle the funny bone of the audience, then that's because of brothers Sajid and Farhad Samji, who have become Bollywood's bankable movie writers.
The goofy lines in films like Bol Bachchan, Housefull 2, Ready, Golmaal Returns, Golmaal 3 may not sound logical, but Sajid and Farhad are happy that they have been appreciated by the audience. "We are happy with the reception that we have got from the industry. To see our punch lines getting applauded, one-liners getting whistles from masses is a great thing. We are delighted we have reached here. We hope to receive the love and affection that writers Salim-Javed got," the duo said. "People used to especially go and watch films that were written by Salim-Javed. We hope it happens with us as well," they said. For the duo, it all started towards the end of 80s when the Mumbai-based Samji family moved to Bangalore. There, Farhad's knack of writing parodies and songs won him praise from family and friends. In 1999, both the brothers set off for Bollywood and decided to team up and write lyrics. For this, they returned to Mumbai. Their struggle began as they tried to find a foothold in B-town. The duo used to carry a plastic bucket and sticks to give instant demos of their songs to directors or actors. "We wrote all sorts of songs, only the 'tapori' ones were appreciated," Sajid said. Their meeting with Salman Khan earned them their first break, who fixed up a meeting with director David Dhawan. In 2002, the duo got their first break in David's film Hum Kisise Kum Nahin with the song Munna Mobile Pappu Pager. Their next big break came in the form of Raju Hirani's Munnabhai MBBS in which Farhad co-wrote the song M Bole To with Rahat Indori. Their major writing assignment came when Ram Gopal Verma offered them to write the screenplay and dialogues for Mohit Ahlawat-starrer Shiva (2006). "This was our first writing assignment and since then there was no looking back," Farhad said.
—PTI
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Tom Cruise wants his daughter back
Cruise plans on taking a break from movies after his current crop of projects end so that he can spend more one-on-one time with Suri. "He needs to prove that he is just as reliable as Katie. And that spending time with his daughter is as important to him as having a hit film," a source said. "Tom is absolutely planning on going after custody of Suri in the future. His plan is to wait for now, and then fight for it down the line," the source added. —PTI
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On a road less travelled
"Having earlier performed before thousands of people
at functions, I now wish to perform as a singer at corporate shows in metros and other cities," Pallabi, daughter of famous Bollywood actor Biswajit, said. The girl has been classically trained. —PTI Free spirit:
Pallabi chatterjee
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Chatter Box
Vivan Bhatena
Surprise element
"It is one of my all time favourite numbers. I was delighted at the suggestion of dancing on this song,” says Supriya. The awards will be telecast on August 18.
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The year ahead
If your birthday is August 14...
With a birthday on the 14th, your charisma makes you a popular figure. Schedule the birthday evening with your loved one; go see a movie, dine out. It might seem strange at first, but keep in mind that your loved one is interested in who you are and this is a good way to keep both partners happy. Ultimately, you have to hitch your star to someone who appreciates your nurturing abilities. You are talented and versatile, very good at presenting ideas and organising stuff. Your mind is quick, clever and analytical, but something in your nature may make you a bit impatient and easily bored with routine. In this period, you must eliminate everything that is superficial. You must not consider this as a loss, as what you lose on one hand, you gain on another. You must concentrate only on what is useful. Drive with care, especially if you happen to travel late at night. Do not overspend on entertainment and luxuries. Loved ones might be annoyed if you do not spend time with them. Be careful as someone could try to tarnish your image. If you run from a situation, it will follow you in the worst possible way. Certain important work will come to a halt due to bleak financial position. You will face some problems, but be realistic and do not expect miracles from people who extend help. Keep away from joint ventures and partnerships. Watch out for individual who might try to mislead you or give information that might cause harm. To handle stress, take breaks and interact with your higher-ups. For those born before 1970, work offers fantastic opportunities, thanks to excellent deals and contracts. Keep your ego out of discussions and do not 'insert' yourself into multi-member situations. Spend on entertainment, but keep it realistic. Fun gatherings are likely with travel or visitors. Take care of your domestic matters and career opportunities. Friends will need your support near the year end. You will have to bail out a friend in need. There will be drastic improvement in health and you will finally be able to shed off lots of pounds. Mood: In need of being 'devoted' to goals Compatible signs: Leo, Scorpio Lucky colours: Navy blue and gray Lucky days: Sunday and Monday. Lucky numbers: 3, 6, 7, 18, 37
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Astro Turf
ARIES: There could be several disruptions and this could leave you feeling irritated and on edge. Be careful as you are prone to losing your temper with loved ones. Spending time with your partner is a priority. Tarot message: Use your instinct to get into the top circle of power. Lucky colour: Royal Blue
Lucky number: 27 TAURUS: Success is certain. Joint ventures or partnership with a close friend or colleague have the making of a profitable alliance in the longer run. You will be buying an expensive gift for a loved one. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid the in-built delays that comes your way. Lucky colour: Ebony Lucky number: 40 GEMINI: Whatever plans for today might have been, they are likely to undergo a change whether you like it or not. Minor tensions at home will be overcome with tact and understanding. Tarot message: Allow a sick situation to blow over before you start a new project. Lucky colour: Cream. Lucky number: 47 CANCER: Hard work and perseverance will certainly get rewarded. Put behind the unpleasant events of the past and look forward to a nice day. Family life is happy. Tarot message: Lack of confidence or lack of caution can leave you in losses. Lucky colour: Parrot green Lucky number: 48 LEO: Meetings and talks will go off very well. Be patient and consider all the factors before making a decision. Loved ones may feel that fun and laughter times are missing. Tarot message: Listen carefully to words of wisdom even if you do not relish them. Lucky colour: Crimson Lucky number: 38 VIRGO: Financial gains are assured for the bold and courageous. The employed can look forward to an out-of-turn promotion with additional benefits. Tarot message: Restore ties with business people you have been out of touch for long. Lucky colour: Deep red Lucky number: 28
LIBRA: Financial gains are on the cards. The employed can look forward benefits at the workplace. Your loved ones may feel that there is something lacking insofar as fun times are concerned. Tarot message: Make an effort to boost your income. Lucky colour: Off-white Lucky number: 55 SCORPIO: You will strike a good bargain. Concentrate on your routine work. Personal relationships are disappointing. At times you can feel alone and forsaken. Social activity will help. Tarot message: Take one step at a time and avoid being hurried. Lucky colour: Orange Lucky number: 46 SAGITTARIUS: Try to remain calm; there are times in a relationship when it is wiser to be silent. In your natural exuberance to keep everyone happy, you could neglect your beloved who may be feeling left out. Tarot message: Watch your action at work. Lucky colour: Florescent green Lucky number: 45 CAPRICORN: You will be discussing expansion plans but try to resolve disputes, if any, amicably. You may be concerned about your beloved who has not been keeping well or may be depressed. Tarot message: Don’t be afraid lend a helping hand to others. Lucky colour: Brown Lucky number: 41 AQUARIUS: Do not get tied down by any promises, especially regarding money matters. Business people reap rich dividends from old/new ventures. Tarot message: Dare to accomplish tasks that normally take up a lot of time. Lucky colour: Violet Lucky number: 51 PISCES: An office romance for some might be tricky. Be assertive where you have to be. Stability and inner strength is what you`re looking for. Make amends and stay happy this evening. Tarot message: You have to tread familiar ground if you are to make a breakthrough in your career. Lucky colour: Golden Lucky number: 30
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Let me choose
Superman Returns star Brandon Routh and wife Courtney Ford have welcomed their first baby.
A representative for the couple confirmed the news and also said that the little one has been named Leo James, reported a magazine.
Hollywood actor Ben Affleck is set to reward a youth activist with a whopping $ 100,000 at the upcoming Do Something Awards. The Argo star, 39, will hand the prize over in Santa Monica, California, reported a magazine.
Veteran crooner Neil Diamond has been honoured with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The 71-year-old Sweet Caroline hit maker received the 2,475th plaque in celebration of the 40th anniversary of his groundbreaking Hot August Night live album. Diamond was joined by wife Katie McNeil, who he married in April, as he posed by the star in front of the Capitol Records Building, reported a channel online.
Singer-actress Miley Cyrus has ditched her shoulder-length hair for a much-shorter do. The 19-year-old former Disney star showed off her new pixie haircut on Twitter, reported a website.
"Never felt more me in my whole life... Someone just told me I'm prettier than Miley Cyrus," she posted.
Actress Keira Knightley is in talks to join actor-director Kenneth Branagh's upcoming film Jack Ryan.
The movie stars Chris Pine in the titular role and Knightley is currently in talks to tackle the leading lady, reported a website.
Hollywood star Tom Cruise reportedly wants to restore his public image so that in future he can push for legal custody of his daughter
Suri. The 50-year-old actor does not want his daughter, six, to live full-time with Katie Holmes and is going all out to ensure he gets what he wants, reported a website.
Carving a new identity in her showbiz career, Rituparno Ghosh's Dosar actor Pallabi Chatterjee has branched out into singing for corporates, the first time an actor having explored the medium in Bengali film industry.
He started a fresh fish, meat and poultry store called Superfresh with his mom, who has been associated with the poultry industry since 20 years. Only when his mom decided to join hands and help in the business, he decided to go ahead with it. It helps him focus well on his acting career.
Karanvir Bohra
Mishal Raheja
Hiten Tejwani
Rakshanda Khan
Ronit Roy
An actress who claims that she has ‘two left feet’ dazzled all at Zee TV’s Boroplus Gold awards with her breathtaking and astounding performance. When the very charming and effervescent Supriya Pilgaonkar took to stage on the popular Bollywood number, Hawa Hawaii, the crowd just couldn’t take their eyes off her. Supriya’s rendition of Hawa Hawaii was so classic and beautiful that it became one of the major highlights of the event. 
You share your birthday with singer Sunidhi Chauhan (August 14, 1983, New Delhi), who started her singing career at a very young age of four. Her performances were telecast by Doordarshan, through the music show Meri Aawaz Suno, where she won the Lata Mangeshkar Trophy. Her songs like Mast Mahol (Fiza), Ankhiyan na maar (Ek Khiladi Ek Hasina), Race sanson ki (Race), Chhaliya (Tashan), among others, are quite popular. She will be on the top of her career after 2015.