Cut above the rest
On Day 2 of Blenders Pride Fashion Tour, Wendell Rodricks and Vikram Phadnis give a colourful treat to fashion lovers 
Ashima Batish

right frame: Wendell Rodricks ( R) PHOTOs: S Chandan

There are two factors that make Wendell Rodricks stand apart in the Indian fashion industry — one he doesn't adhere to the bling, bright, money-minting, popular fashion of the country obsessed by ethnic couture. And two, which is equally important, he doesn't shy away from admitting his orientation — he is gay and happy. In his second book, The Green Room, besides a detailed account of his journey of life, he also wrote about the relationship he enjoys with Jerome Marrel, his partner. "He is the one who instilled confidence in me to pursue my dream of becoming a fashion designer. Why shouldn't I talk about him? And talking about love is never wrong," says the designer candidly as he shares details about his collection for the Blenders Pride Fashion Tour.

"My fashion show isn't about just models walking down the ramp; it is more of a dance party, which in turn complements my collection, Red, Haute and Blue." As the name suggests, Wendell, this time hasn't worked with his favourite white, instead dabbled with bright colours. It is Punjab after all he is bringing his collection to! He has derived inspiration from the music by Cold Porter, the American composer and songwriter. While Wendell was the first one to pick silhouette over embroidery, cut over bling, there are many following suit, "Which is so flattering. That also means that designers are so sure about their work." It doesn't amaze that uber-experimental Little Shilpa is his student. But he has stayed away from embroideries and crystals for philosophical and practical reasons. "Cut makes an outfit evergreen, whereas bling reduces the age of the creation. You first invest in creating a garment, then maintaining it. Else zari turns black; Swarovskis fall off, and clothe rips at the seams."

Besides fashion, writing also keeps him occupied. With just 24 hours in a day, he spares the time to pen down his thoughts by waking up at four in the morning. After Moda Goa and The Green Room, he is writing short stories, which he says is a mix of facts and fiction. Like always, he hasn't left Goa out of the picture, it is in the background of the stories. However, the most interesting project is the comic strip he is designing and writing on the history of his home state. And that is how when it comes to his fashion shows, he loves being involved in all the aspects, "Be it choreography, music, lighting…. I have an emotional connect with fashion, it is not mere a profession."

Like many in the industry, he will be soon retailing through an e-commerce site, which he says helps cut costs in slowdown affected times like these. "You have a direct access with your consumer." As for his Bollywood connections, he might have friends but that doesn't stop him from speaking the truth. "Deepika Padukone and Anushka Sharma were my finds but once they are in the industry, I am just their designer for events and not films." If Wendell can talk about his personal life, talking about the relationship he shares with Bollywood is sure no big deal! 

On a different line

haute couture: Vikram Phadnis (R)

He basks in the glory of creating bling, mingling with Bollywood, doesn't give a second thought while confessing, "I am what I am because of Salman Khan." Vikram Phadnis comes across as easy and frank, if Bollwood has catapulted his career; he gives the industry its due credit. But also a fact is that as much as he is known for his Bollywood styling, he is also known for his creations. "Ultimately my clothes sell. People know my clothes as an affordable designer wear," says Vikram who through his collection, meant for the show, aims to celebrate the beauty of night. Hence it is dominated by the colours black, gold and dark maroon. "The diffusion line goes with the festive spirit of the season." In the process, he has put to rest theories that black is not ominous enough, strongly recommending creation for the friend's weddings.

Couture still remains his favourite segment of fashion. And it is not without a reason. "Wedding wear is recession proof. Wedding day is still considered the biggest day in life; I know people don't mind splurging enough." But he admits that not everything he designs in his collections sell and that is true for every designer. "I would still make couture. For me it's a challenge to better my turnover with each season."

The recent collection that he showcased at the LFW was all about gold and Karisma Kapoor walked the ramp for him. He has his defence ready, "Three things sell well in India, entertainment, sports and politics. I am doing nothing different." 

Child’s play
Creators of the popular animation character Chhota Bheem credit a nice, funny tale with positive message for their phenomenal success 
Mona

Successful run: Tomasz Walczak PHOTOS: S Chandan

One idea of introducing an Indian super hero turned fortunes for Green Gold Animation. The hugely successful animated character has found its way into kids' hearts. Running successfully into its fifth year, 15 special TV films and two theatricals, Chhota Bheem is running strong.

To take this positive experience to the children is what the company considers as its responsibility. And to fulfill it, team Bheem was at Chitkara International School, Chandigarh. Makeshift Dholakpur had live Bheem and his team Chutki, Kalia, Jaggu, Indumati and Dholu Bholu. Kids were thrilled to be amongst the happy company. Different games, tattoos, Dholakpur bore the air of festivity and the screaming kids were only too happy.

Tomasz Walczak who represents Green Gold Academy was too amused at the event, "So popular is Bheem that we receive calls at our Hyderabad office from children who want us to connect them to Bheem 'immediately'. At various events the little Bheem has to go with bodyguards as the kids often punch Bheem to find out if he's really as strong as he looks on screen!"

An animation character's life is nearly five years on an average; Bheem however is already going strong beyond his age. "We have the merchandise, Bheem on tiffins, fans and cycles, and not to forget the only Indian company to have tie-up with McDonalds; the character has enjoyed immense popularity."

Despite being a 2D, the show is a hit, something that Tomasz credits to the storyline, "We wanted an Indian superhero, set in past, so Bheem was born. Our focus is on pure message and a nice funny story that has continued to work."

Chhota Bheem is soon gearing for a 3D avatar. "It's lots of work, Bheem already has a fan following. His smile, walk all has to be replicated to the hilt."

The company continues to do one TV special movie a month. Chhota Bheem and Kung Fu Dhamaka is going to be its next theatrical outing. Mighty Raju is another spin off from its success that the company is keeping in low profile. "We don't want to cannibalise out our own show."

Interestingly, Bheem is enjoying a successful run in Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia and Mauritius.

mona@tribunemail.com

Comfort over fashion
Amarjot Kaur

Neha Dhupia walked the ramp for Neeta Lulla at the Blender's pride fashion tour. Photo : S Chandan

In the pursuit of making world a stylish place, the Blender's Pride Fashion Tour kickstarted at Chandigarh on Saturday, and as Neha Dhupia walked the ramp as the showstopper for Neeta Lulla in the nude coral pink shade, she said, "Chandigarh never fails us, especially when it comes to fashion. It is perhaps one of the few places in the country where one finds some of the most good looking people." Accompanied by Neeta Lulla, Neha walks through the swanky floors of Hotel Mountview. One cannot but help from noticing her lovely evening gown that reminds one of the 1930's, especially the feather laden headgear.

"This dress may look very heavy, but it very comfortable to wear. Also, the most interesting thing about Neeta is that with all the experience that she has tendered to her creativity, its amazing how she continues to reinvent herself every time," says Neha, while adding, "A designer has to understand what suits a film, a ramp and the store and Neeta aces it all so effortlessly. She designed my clothes for the Punjabi film, Rangeeley too and though I needed a lot of convincing, when it comes to colours, she really made me look good in the attire." While one wonders of how Neha, an actor, who is also a muse for the Neeta, translates her identity with the character and story of a designer's collection palette, both Neeta explains, "One has to understand that you are dealing with people who have different personalities, so a designer needs to understand their personalities."

When it comes to trends, Neha swears by an oversized white shirt and a pair of denims and though she is open to doing a Punjabi film, she is still looking for a good script. "I am busy with three projects at the moment, including Ungli that is directed by Karan, Santa Banta, which is a comedy film and 21Topo Ki Salami," she signs off. 

gyan zone
Progressive Roots
Gurmeet Singh Dala is inspiring his kind to give back to the land 
Jasmine Singh

Irrespective of whether the sun is at its full glory, or the storm has decided to drop by announced, or if the rains have their day out, Gurmeet Singh Dala, 28, a young agriculturist from Gurdaspur will not miss a round at his agricultural land and a visit to those who seek to take his advice. Not that he has returned with a degree from abroad, neither does he have any gold medals to validate his knowledge in the field, Gurmeet or Sonu as friends say, only makes a point to read all journals, magazines, leaflets, and internet sites based on progressive farming.

Most recently he has brought in many news ways of increasing the produce of an agricultural land, which have helped not only the farmers of his village but also those around. "The face of agriculture has changed with time; it is not about spending endless hours on the land, it is also about changing with time and bringing in new techniques," says Gurmeet who plans to work on a machine that will make a farmers life simpler. Gurmeet has many friends who are studying in Chandigarh and Patiala, who return to their farms twice a year bringing in new techniques of farming. "Youngsters who belong to agricultural background and are also pursuing their degrees in universities want to bring in progressive farming techniques to their respective states," adds Gurmeet.

This however is not the only thing that he is dedicated towards; Gurmeet also designs farmhouses. He along with his brother Manjit, 38 and Harpreet Dala, 26 have designed their house and farm in Dala village. "Most people still have a fixed notion about how the houses in villages look like; we don't have architects who can give some state-of the art ideas. This is why I along with my brothers decided to do up our own farm. I want to place Gurdaspur and other districts on the world map. I feel that youngsters who have now settled in metropolitan cities, Chandigarh and abroad shouldn't shy away from making their beautiful homes in the villages," adds Gurmeet who wants to give a chic look to his district. "I am not saying youngsters shouldn't move out, or everyone should come back and live here forever, I want they should give back to place they owe so much."

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Bacchus lovers rejoice

After enjoying good response to their signature dishes, the popular American chain Chili's Grill & Bar at Elante Mall has rolled in their standard Margaritas.

All over the world Chili's is know for its signature drink Margarita which are hand crafted with secret ingredients. Says Siddharth Varun, GM operations, "At Chili's all are Margritas are hand shaken and made fresh for our customers. Our best selling Margaritas are Presidente and Classic." Choose from the long list of Margarita options. There is range of non-alcoholic drinks as well — you can have your share of Margaritas, Pina Colada, varieties of iced teas, shakes and lemonades. The alcoholic Margaritas start from Rs 375 plus taxes. To drink more in less, enjoy happy hours from four to eight on weekdays. — TNS

Master Chef
The pear parody
Kandla Nijhowne

My Tribune-column leads me to one major trouble in a big-sized pack.....I'm badgered by my husband Vivek to make that very dish the following day! His stand on this is simple, "Practice what you preach." A warm fruity dessert, fragrant with the aroma of spices, served with lashings of cream is to absolutely die for. I'm often asked at friends' gatherings what the difference is between a fruit crumble and a fruit crisp. Allow me to share the fine characters of both with you. Both crisps and crumbles are layered hot puddings, made in heaven if I may add! Both have sweetened fruit topped with a floury buttery spread which is cooked in an oven till brown. Now for the difference. A crisp, unlike a crumble invariably has the addition of rolled oats within the upper mix, adding a delightfully different, nutty texture to the pudding. Make use of the pears while they are in season to create this winner for your loved ones!

Method

• Dice the pears into even cubes (peeling is your option).
• Pre-heat the oven to 190 degrees C
• Use a deep bowl and toss together the pears, white sugar, lemon zest and juice.
• Grease a glass dish with butter. Tip the fruit in there and spread evenly.
• Use another bowl and combine the oats, brown sugar, maida and the cinnamon and ginger powder.
• Cut cold butter into pieces, toss into the dry mix and rub together till the mixture is evenly sticky and crumbly.
• Scatter the crumb over the waiting pears. Pat gently to even out.
• Pop into the hot oven for 30 minutes, maybe more, till it is brown and crisp.
• Serve warm with slightly whipped cream, custard or ice cream.

stress buster
Add more to life
Renee singh

It has been estimated that as many as seventy five percent of all medical complaints are stress related. The list is growing everyday whether it is ulcers and stomach disorders, migraine and tension headaches, high BP, insomnia and psychiatric disorders. It seems to be an indefinitely long list. More and more people are reporting psychosomatic symptoms on regular basis and these disorders are reaching near epidemic proportions.

A recent study conducted in the University of Tenessee showed that more than half of all hospital admissions could be prevented by changes in lifestyle.

Prevent stress related diseases

• This can be done by helping people to adopt health promoting behaviours rather than making them find ways of medicating themselves.
• Behavioural medicine is the revolutionary new way of multidisciplinary activity to understand and change health related behaviours.

Shopper’s delight

Chandigarh women love shopping and clothes top their list. Or, so it seems after a visit to the exhibition, Silk Utsav at Kisan Bhawan-35. A fresh, varied supply of stock from artisans from all across the country are part of this exhibition.

Kosa & Chapa silk from Chattisgarh; Baghalpuri Tussar silk and Matka silk weave from Bihar; the thinnest yarn in pure silk from Karnataka; Tangial Sarees and Baluchari sarees from West Bengal as well as their famous Kantha handwork on the pure silk and cotton; Chanderi and Maheshwari sarees and dress material from Madhya Pradesh; Munga from Assam; artisans have their ware proudly displayed and willing to share the tales of success their crafts have got them.

"We have always got such good response from the city that we are enthused to add more variety on our each outing," says Rakesh, a craftsman and President Rashtriya Sanskriti Samaj Avom Sabhayata, New Delhi that organises this fair.

It's not only silk that is in plenty here, there is cotton from different parts of India and handicrafts to brighten your home too. The range of fabrics available starts from Rs 150 per meter going up to a few thousands if you are gearing up for the festive season ahead! On till October 7. — TNS

star track
Arjun to play Asaram Bapu

Arjun Rampal is all set to play the controversial spiritual guru Asaram Babu in Prakash Jha's next movie titled Satsang. Names like Ajay Devgn, Amitabh Bachchan and Manoj Bajpai were placed but finally Arjun Rampal has been chosen for the role.

Speaking about his preparation for the film, Arjun says with a grin, "I think, I will have to work a lot to play Asaram Bapu."

Recently, Asaram Bapu had been caught in a sex scandal and was currently in jail. He has applied for bail but his bail plea was rejected. One of his devotees accused Asaram Babu of sexual assault.

Satsang will also throw light on the recent controversy surrounding Asaram. Prakash Jha's last release Satyagraha was highly applauded and received a good response at the box-office.

Holiday on my mind!

Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif are planning to go to New York, for a mini break, after the release of Besharam. Karan Johar and Ayan Mukerji are already in New York writing their next film and the couple will join them there. Meanwhile, Ranbir Kapoor was fined by the customs department at Mumbai Airport for not declaring all the goods he was carrying. He had to pay a fine of Rs 70,000 to take along personal goods worth Rs 3 lakh.

Time out: Katrina Kaif and Ranbir Kapoor

Akshay’s work ethics

Akshay Kumar's movies are always high on catchy music. He has bought the rights of 35 songs to be used in his future projects. New singers, music composers often leave their songs in CDs at his office and if he likes them, his office gets in touch with them to buy the rights. Pretty ethical way of selecting songs!

Highway on the move

Sajid Nadiadwala has tied up with UTV to give Imtiaz Ali's Highway, starring Randeep Hooda and Alia Bhatt, a worldwide release on February 21, 2014. "I am very pleased to join hands with friends to take Highway to its audience and am very confident about my partners," says Imtiaz.

Tied up: A still from the movie

In sickness and health

Model Pia Trivedi married squash player Ritwik Bhattacharya in a Catholic wedding ceremony recently. Close friends and family of the couple were in attendance. Actress Esha Deol was also present with her husband Bharat Takhtani. Ritwik and Pia started dating last year.

Picture perfect: The couple with friends

The designer’s muse

Esha Gupta, who is currently shooting for her forthcoming film Humshakal opposite Saif Ali Khan, will be walking the ramp once again for Manish Malhotra.

Esha and Manish share a great rapport and the designer is quite fond of the actress. Manish believes that Esha is one of the actresses who has a great fashion sense. Both are in London at present working for the fashion show.




Fashion conscious: Esha Gupta

From real to reel

Anushka Sharma and Ranveer Singh are no longer together in real life but they might unite onscreen for Zoya Akhtar's next film. In the film, Priyanka Chopra plays Ranveer Singh's sister. The duo has given a lot of hits together. They starred in Band Baja Baraat and also Ladies Vs Ricky Bahl. Let’s see how they fare this time.

Reunion stint: Ranveer Singh and Anushka Sharma

chatter box
I had the ‘Nawaabon Wala Tashan’…

Bhopal-born newcomer Rafi Malik has been chosen to play the lead in the soon-to-be-aired political drama Desh Ki Beti Nandini on Sony television. Earlier, actor Ravi Dubey was being touted as the central character of the show then the makers went for a fresh face. Here he talks about bagging the role and the show.

What is your role in the show?

The character of Rajveer Raghuvanshi, which I play belongs to a royal family and has a sophisticated air about him. I was told I suited the character perfectly as I am from Bhopal and had the 'Nawaabon Wala Tashan'.

Tell us about yourself and your journey till this show…

I am an alumnus of the Bhopal School of Social Sciences and was among the finalists in Gladrags Mega Model Hunt in 2011. I started my career as a model and I'm elated with this break. The makers were looking for a new face, and I got lucky.

We heard you had the option to choose between this show and Mahabharat.

Yes, I was also offered a role in Mahabharat, but this show interested me more as I'm playing the lead and it's a happy coincidence for me. I'm starting my acting career and shooting in my hometown. I couldn't have asked for more.

How was it like to be shooting in Bhopal?

It was a weeklong shooting schedule in the city's malls, lakes and Shahpura's Rainbow Treat. The show is based in Delhi, but it becomes very difficult to shoot in the outdoors because of the sultry weather. So, we've come here. Bhopal is a shooting-friendly city. In the entire schedule, we never faced any problem and things went very smoothly.

What do you think of your co-star Keerti Nagpure?

She is a good co star and very helpful. She plays a girl-next-door in the show, who raises her voice against atrocities.

Candid confessions

Mohit Raina aka Mahadev was seen in the same role in Siddharth Kumar Tewary's Mahabharat and because he was a huge fan of the original show, he enjoyed being a part of this new version. Meanwhile, he told the media that if he were given a chance, he would love to essay the role of Karan. He has become very popular for his character of Mahadev and considers himself very lucky to have bagged the plum role.

Role-play: Mohit Raina

Defying all rumours

Though the serial has ended, Aasiya Kazi and Akanksha Singh, who were co-stars in Colors' Na Bole Tum Na Maine Kuch Kaha Season 2 became good friends. While there are numerous stories of female actors not getting along, Asiya said, "We bonded well and would hang out post shoot too."

New innings

Buzz is that producer Ashwini Dheer of Lapataganj-Ek Baar Phir fame is working on the sequel to Imagine tv's Gunahon Ka Devta. The show aired in 2010 starring Ashish Sharma and now for the sequel Gurmeet Choudhary has been approached.

Shocking revelations

Veena Malik, who is known for her controversial comments, shocked many when at an event she revealed that she was offered a television reality show-The Bachelorette after her Swayamvar on Imagine didn't happen.

She added that because she was busy with films, she declined the offer and the channel went to Mallika Sherawat. Over to you Mallika!


War of words: Veena malik

A friend indeed

Buzz is that Anupam Kher did not charge any money to be part of Anil Kapoor's small screen debut 24. He says that it was because of his friendship with Anil that made him chose to do the cameo. In the show, Anupam essays the role of a raw agent, Wasim and he will be seen in two episodes only.

Favour for free: Anupam Kher

Astro Turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Not much out of the ordinary is likely to transpire today. Do not overload yourself with work and take care of yourself. Pearls of wisdom from an older person are valuable. Tarot message: Boost your confidence by thinking positive. Lucky colour: Aqua blue Magic number: 38

TAURUS: Partners may not be very understanding. Business conferences and organisational meetings will go off smoothly. Building your self-esteem and professional reputation is a priority. Tarot message: Avoid those situations, which may turn nasty in the long run. Lucky colour: Mauve Magic number: 59

GEMINI: This is not a particularly busy day. Take an optimistic outlook to resolve a personal issue. You'll prefer not to share your thoughts or ideas with people from your past. Tarot message: If you stick to arrangements, results are guaranteed. Lucky colour: Navy blue. Magic number: 47

CANCER: Work wise you will be doing fine. Love life is controversial. Give more time to domestic duties. Sportsmen perform well. Do not suppers your feelings. Tarot message: Do not let anyone get advantage over you. Lucky colour: White Magic number: 53

LEO: You must try to work harder. Avoid speculation. Travel plans need a double check. Expectant women: focus on your diet and light exercise. Even surrounded by friends, you may feel all alone today. Tarot message: Own up to your mistakes and keep the emotions aside. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 30

VIRGO: There will be new projects to deal with. Friends will be coming with useful ideas. Mothers: take proper care of your little child. Tarot message: Don't get embroiled in ventures where returns are spread over a large period of time. Lucky colour: Sky blue. Magic number: 31

LIBRA: Nothing is going wrong today. Home and family life run smoothly. You will get more time to do what you want. Evening favours social get together. Co-workers are controversial. Tarot message: Avoid gossip sessions. Lucky colour: Orange Magic number: 36

SCORPIO: Love life will be controversial. Your health can stand in the way of travel plans. Ensure that your health is up to scratch before applying. Think about what you are going to wear to an upcoming job interview. Tarot message: Try to get your work in order. Lucky colour: Pink Magic number: 61

SAGITTARIUS: Avoid tiffs and angry words in the heat of the moment. Focus on hobbies and personal matters. Students: you may be confused about your career. Tarot message: Be articulate to prevent people jumping to their own conclusions. Lucky colour: Silver Magic number: 32

CAPRICORN: Your mind could be off daydreaming and you may be plotting fabulous ways to get the things you want, even though you know you probably won't ever get around to putting them into action. Tarot message: Focus on professional changes. Lucky colour: Yellow Magic number: 29

AQUARIUS: Do not sign new arrangements. Use your sympathy more than ambition for best results. A strong independent streak will push you to get things done your way and in your time. Tarot message: Arrogance and pride will not be rewarded. Lucky colour: Green Magic number: 43

PISCES: The situations call for reflection and revaluation. Messages can get mixed up, appointments can be cancelled, and whatever is meant to be happening probably won't. Tarot message: You need to be creative to retain a grip over your business. Lucky colour: Peach Magic number: 65

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is September 30...

Long distance travel is possible. Financial gains might occur but are less likely to meet expectations. Personal life will acquire prominence. You will be able use your skills effectively. You'll be tireless .If you are in a relationship, avoid illusions and criticism. This birthday is a fine day for do-it-yourself projects, especially around your home or property. Don't shun any new contracts during this period as some Astral aspects aren't favourable and suggest danger. There is an inherent fondness for rich and sugary foods. Positive colours: Yellow, Cream, Sea Green, Purple & Red. Select days: Tuesday Thursday, Friday. Favourable numbers: 3, 6 and 9. Gems Recommended: Yellow Sapphire, Pearl.Charity on Birthday: Donate white uniform to the needy in the name of the departed souls who left on 11th Lunar Tithi. 

Monica Bellucci (full name Monica Anna Maria Bellucci) was born on September 30, 1968 in Citti di Castello, Umbria, Italy. She is a famous actress and a fashion model. Bellucci started her career with the film, Bram Stoker's Dracula in which she played the role of one of Dracula's brides in 1992.