Syrian-born actor Michael Ansara, who has played the original character of Klingon warrior Kang on three versions of the Star Trek TV series, died on Wednesday at his home in California. The actor was 91-years-old and was suffering from a prolonged illness.

“Michael and I have been friends since 1968. He was my best friend. He had a long illness and died at home. He was a great guy, and a wonderful actor,” said his one-time publicist Michael B. Druxman, quoted eonline.com.

Though his character as the Star Trek villain will remain his most enduring popular culture legacy, the actor rose to fame through playing native American characters on the ‘50s two primetime series, Broken Arrow and Law of the Plainsman.

Ansara was born to American parents in Syria and returned to the US at the age of two. He initially enrolled into the Los Angeles City College with the intention of becoming a doctor. However, his performance at the Pasadena Playhouse landed him roles in film and stage, reported hollywoodreporter.com.

The actor was also seen in movies including Julius Caesar and The Robe (1953), Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea (1961) and The Comancheros (1961). Ansara also played the role of Abu Sufyan in the Islam-inspired film, The Message.

At later stages of life, Ansara, who also received a star on Hollywood’s walk of fame, appeared in an array of TV series including, The Untouchables, Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Lost in Space and the mini-series, Centennial.

Most recently, the actor lent his deep-toned voice for the role of Mr. Freeze on the animated Batman series. Ansara has left behind his wife of 36 years, Beverly Kushida and sister, Rose.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 5^th, 2013.

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While Ranbir Kapoor has definitely marked his own niche in Bollywood, he needs to learn a lesson or two about not messing with the ‘Khans’ of the industry. The trailer of his most talked-about movie, Besharam, has caused quite a stir online, throwing SRK and Sallu Bhai fans in a fret.

The clip, which has already received a million hits becoming yet another Internet sensation, shows Ranbir humming an off-key version of SRK’s famous Tujhe Dekha To Yeh Jaana Sanam while urinating in mustard fields – bearing stark resemblance to the original picturisation of the song, reported the Times of India. At another instance, Ranbir is also seen saying the dialogue, “Naam Chulbul rakhne se, koi Dabangg nai banjaata,” which has irked many Salman Khan fans.

In the light of Ranbir’s supposed mockery of Bollywood’s living legends, fans took to Twitter.

Ranbir Kapoor mocking SRK in an iconic 'Tujhe Dekha' song while peeing in the #Besharam trailer proves that he still needs to grow up. #crap

— BoldMonk (@Ghanta_Claus) July 30, 2013

Director Abhinav Kashyap, who also directed Dabangg, was quick, in his defence, to dismiss any misconception. “There was no glimpse of Salman. Chulbul is a name, and it has come from me. I can make fun of myself,” he said, adding that the part similar to DDLJ is only there to convey the message that the film is a romantic comedy.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 5^th, 2013.

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LOS ANGELES: Television musical series Glee will address the death of star Cory Monteith in the upcoming season, writing his character out of the show and touching on Monteith’s real-life drug use, said US TV network Fox earlier this week.

Monteith, who played the high school jock-turned-show-choir-member Finn Hudson, died last month at the age of 31 in Vancouver, from an accidental overdose of heroin and alcohol.

The British Columbia Coroners Service had said in a press release that post-mortem testing on the star shows that he died of “mixed-drug toxicity involving heroin and alcohol.” It said Monteith’s death was unlikely to have been intentional.

The actor’s death has forced Fox to push back the show’s fifth season premiere in September by one week as its writers re-write episodes without Monteith’s character.

“(The) third episode will deal with the Finn Hudson character being written out of the show,” Kevin Reilly, chairman of entertainment at Fox, told reporters at a Television Critics Association meeting.

“I can’t speak about it yet because it’s still being written. That episode will deal directly with the incidents involved in Cory’s passing and the drug abuse in particular,” Reilly said.

Monteith, who had an off-screen relationship with fellow Glee star Lea Michele, had struggled with substance abuse in the past and went to rehab in April, this year.

Reilly also said the Glee cast will record public service announcements about drug abuse that will air during the episode focused on Monteith.

The fifth season of Glee will begin on September 26 and could be one of the show’s last, Reilly said.

“I would not anticipate it goes beyond two more seasons,” he said.

Monteith began his career in a number of small roles leading up to a recurring part between 2006 and 2007 in the ABC Family science-fiction drama Kyle XY and another role around the same time on the MTV series Kaya. But Glee, a show set in the small town of Lima, Ohio, was Monteith’s breakthrough.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 5^th, 2013.

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Actor and model Momal Sheikh was recently spotted at the launch of multi-label store Designer’s Lounge looking uber-chic in a pair of eye-catching leopard-print pants. The petite star always manages to catch the media’s attention with her trendy look and her latest appearance was no different. Here is a breakdown:

Hair

While Momal’s ‘60s-inspired hairdo adds a touch of glamour to the casual look, we aren’t big fans of the snake-like strand of her hair falling on one side.

A better option would have been to tuck it back in order to give a neat, sophisticated look. For such a hairdo, add a tad bit of non-frizz serum, blow-dry your hair and backcomb from the middle to add a bit volume.

Now tie your hair in a bun or a French twist leaving the side bang loose. Curl the ends of the side bang using a curling iron.

Make-up

The actor keeps her make-up subtle and flawless with pops of shimmer and bright shades of pink and coral. We are totally in love with her bright candy pink lip shade and coral nail colour – both add a bit funk to her overall look.

In order to have clear, simple make-up like hers without appearing too cakey, dab a small amount of The Body Shop Vitamin E tinted moisturiser (Rs1,000) followed by a concealing routine. To get Momal’s shimmering pink eyes, use MAC’s Free To Be eyeshadow (Rs1,200) and Rimmel’s Glam Eyes Lash Flirt mascara (Rs650). For a similar lip shade, try out Mac’s Pink Nouveau lipstick (Rs1,500).

Outfit

Time and again, we have said that printed pants are the craze this season and we are glad to see that Momal has been taking some notes.

Keeping it balanced, Momal cleverly pairs her leopard-printed skinnies with a stone-coloured plain top. These can be easily found at Mango (Rs4,000 each) or at local brands like Mantra (Rs3,500).

Accessories and Shoes

Chunky metallic gold accessories can never go wrong. Momal’s metallic gold choker and geometrical cuff bracelet is scoring high on our style-o-meter. Check out Accessorize for similar finds (Rs2,500). However, we aren’t too sure if the metallic black watch and nose pin fit well with her glam look.

A leather clutch or cross-body bag would have also been a good addition. Her patent nude peep-toes are truly en vogue and work well with stone-coloured top. A similar pair can easily be found at Charles and Keith (Rs5,500) or Hub leather (Rs4,000).

Published in The Express Tribune, August 5^th, 2013.

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LOS ANGELES: The court is probably the second-most popular site for spotting Hollywood stars after Universal Studios in LA. Lately, famous singers like Rihanna and Justin Bieber, all have managed to land a court’s notice for some reason or the other. And it seems like even the sassy, Tango diva, Shakira, wasn’t spared.

Shakira’s ex-boyfriend, Antonio de la Rua, had recently filed three lawsuits against the Colombian crossover star seeking a ‘partnership’ interest in her income. However, the singer breathed a sigh of relief as all three of the lawsuits were dismissed by the Los Angeles superior judge.

“I am very grateful that the courts are not allowing these groundless lawsuits to proceed. I have moved on in my life and could not be happier now. I hope this harassment will now come to an end,” said Shakira in a statement, reported eonline.com.

Shakira’s ex had filed the $100million lawsuit on April 12 in LA claiming that he built the singer’s brand and was the brain behind her hits Hips Don’t Lie and Waka Waka. He had initially filed a $250million lawsuit against the singer in New York, last November.

In the California proceedings, Shakira’s lawyers filed a motion to dismiss on March 28, maintaining that the court did not have jurisdiction because Shakira and de la Rua are Colombian and Argentine citizens, respectively.

They also noted that she and her ex-boyfriend had signed a “prenuptial-type agreement applicable to unmarried couples” in 2006, in which they “expressly manifested their wish to conserve the totality of their past, current and future assets, separately”.

A Swiss judge, ruling in the case that de la Rua filed in Geneva, held that the 2006 agreement “decisively” compelled the conclusion that Shakira and her ex were never legal partners.

“In a 15-page, well-reasoned opinion the Swiss court dismissed all of Mr de la Rua’s claims that he was entitled to any participation in Shakira’s past, current or future business, brand or assets, including future income,” said the singer’s attorney, Ezequiel Camerini, in a statement.

Shakira, who gave birth to her son Milan, with boyfriend Gerard Pique, in January this year, is currently enjoying motherhood.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 5^th, 2013.

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Chup, which will be produced and directed by Shaan himself, aims to give way to a different aesthetic of film-making. While they are all meant to be commercial films, they will be shorter in length than usual.

Previously, Shaan had said that it was necessary to cut films short and move beyond the traditional Lollywood style. These claims, however, seem to be in vain as little is known about when the film will finally commence shooting.

Mashal Peerzada, daughter of famed actor-director Salmaan Peerzada and a graduate of the New York Film Academy at Universal Studios, highlights that the film has faced a lot of phases with the script being re-written time and again.

Nevertheless, despite several delays, the film’s storyboard, script and some of the music, has already been composed. “We are looking at tight, short and slightly thought-provoking rom-coms,” says Peerzada.

“They are three independent films, which we hope will set a new aesthetic standard. These will be commercial films, but we are focusing on the 90-minute format.”

The series, that involves a story based on relationships, was scripted with Juggan Kazim as the lead artist. Peerzada says that the story will start with a fairy-tale like feel and will then move on to tackling some major grown-up issues.

“I can’t think of anyone else right now in the industry that can do the part – someone who has the charm, and yet is old enough for such as role,” she says.

“It’s not a teeny-boppy romance. It starts from something whimsical but then gets real and addresses grown-up problems.”

Peerzada emphasises that the delay was mostly because the film, though written with a small-budget in mind, required significant funds for marketing. Several companies were supposed to be funding the film and were even catered to with various product placements.

“There were quite large sections of the film, written to accommodate that type of branding and aesthetic. However, when that did not happen, we had to re-write the script which put us back a bit,” she claims.

“I think it is a shame that in a country, which is re-awakening with increasing interest in Pakistani cinema and a growing audience and market, there is still no one who has the vision to fund a project like this.”

While there is a great deal of uncertainty surrounding the fate of the film, Juggan confirms that the film will eventually be made, admitting that delays had taken place due to a variety of reasons.

She said that the film was ready to go on set and that she was hoping to start shooting as early as Fall. Regarding the story, Kazim adds, “This is not going to be a run-of-the-mill, issue-based film, rather it is going to be a commercial film with an artsy feel to it.”

Published in The Express Tribune, August 5^th, 2013.

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Indian gastroenterologist, Ajay Kumar attributes this rising trend amongst young children to their daily routine. “School-going kids have an early breakfast, which they eat half-heartedly because of time constraints. After a long break it’s tiffin time, but they hardly eat from the lunchbox, preferring to eat from the canteen instead,” he explained.

“It’s seen that a lot of mothers try to pack appetising food for their children, like fried cutlets, or even a pack of chips. At the end of the day, you have moved from a high-fibre diet to a high-calorie diet. Obesity in kids is, therefore, rising, as also are cases of acidity,” Kumar told IANS.

It’s a similar story for professionals. Long gaps between meals, junk food, no physical exercise and odd working hours all add to giving one a burning sensation in the stomach.

“Stress also plays a big role in causing acidity. It accentuates the problem,” Deepak Lahoti, head of the gastroenterology department at Max Hospital, Patparganj, told IANS. A job that always keeps you on the tenterhooks or a gnawing problem at home can also lead to acidity.

What’s more, smoking and alcohol, both of which are increasingly becoming an accepted norm in society, can cause an acid reflux.

According to Lahoti, the symptoms of acidity may not always be frequent burps and a burning sensation in the stomach. “In children, for instance, if there is a recurring throat infection, it could be because of acidity because the reflux can go high up to the tonsillar region. Complaints of food being felt stuck in the chest region, or slight bleeding with vomiting, can all be caused by acidity.”

Taking antacids over the counter, doctors say, is all right, unless the problem starts hampering your daily life.

“Having acidity once in three to four weeks and then taking an antacid is okay. But if it becomes a daily affair and starts hampering your routine, you should see a doctor,” said gastroenterologist Rajni Mehta, who practises at a number of private hospitals in India. “Adults who are on painkillers are vulnerable to frequent acidity problems.”

“If you are in the 40 to 50 age bracket and have developed fresh symptoms like loss of weight, loss of appetite, blood in vomit, black stools, fall in hemoglobin level – all of which we call red flags – then you should see the doctor and go for investigations,” added Kumar.

A recurring acidity problem, despite acid suppressants, can lead to vitamin deficiency. “Also, as World Health Organization (WHO) has stated, frequent acid reflux can be carcinogenic. Which means, if it remains uncorrected, frequent acidity can lead to cancer of the esophageal pipe,” Lahoti pointed out.

Since acidity is lifestyle-related in most cases, the best way to tackle the problem is to take small, frequent meals, go for regular exercise, and avoid eating excessively in one go, be it fried food, ice cream or candy. “And ultimately, try and observe what causes the problem for you, and avoid that,” Lahoti added.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 5^th, 2013.

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RAWALPINDI: Pakistan’s new cartoon superhero who fights bad guys disguised in a flowing black burka is set to go global, her creator told AFP, with plans afoot to broadcast the show in 60 countries.

The Urdu-language animation Burka Avenger, showing the adventures of a mild-mannered teacher who uses her superpowers to fight local gangsters trying to close down the girls’ school where she works, hit Pakistani TV screens last month.

The kids’ action-comedy struck a chord in a country where Taliban militants have prevented thousands of girls from going to school in the northwest and attacked activists campaigning for their education.

The man behind Burka Avenger, pop star Haroon Rashid, said he had been overwhelmed by the response.

“The reception has been absolutely phenomenal, beyond our expectations,” he said.

“We were making this little animated TV series for Pakistan but it seems like the whole world wants to know about the Burka Avenger.”

A TV distribution company in Europe has been in touch with a view to translating the show into 18 languages, including English and French, and screening it in 60 countries, Rashid said.

The issue of girls’ education in conservative, militant-plagued northwest Pakistan hit world headlines last October when Taliban gunmen shot teenage activist Malala Yousafzai.

Malala, who campaigns for the right of girls to go to school, survived the attack and last month delivered a powerful speech at the UN in New York.

Rashid said Malala was a “real life superhero” for her courage and said the attack on her had come as they prepared an early episode of Burka Avenger.

“We were all stunned because we were working on the exact same story about a little girl who stands up to the bad guy who tried to shut down her school,” he said.

“I had never heard of Malala before then — it was like life was imitating what was on our screen while we were developing.”

Nearly half of all children in Pakistan and almost three quarters of young girls are not enrolled in primary school, according to UN and government statistics published late last year.

NEW DELHI: His health doesn’t permit him to take too much stress, but despite that, Bollywood superstar Shahrukh Khan is aggressively promoting his forthcoming film Chennai Express and says that the theme of the movie is such that the whole family can sit together and enjoy it.

Releasing on August 9, director Rohit Shetty’s Chennai Express brings together SRK and Deepika Padukone on the big screen once again after the hit movie, Om Shanti Om.

SRK has spent over two decades in filmdom and has been part of hits like Deewana, Darr, Baazigar and Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and affirms that his films are meant for the masses.

“My films are for the masses, and similarly Chennai Express is for the masses (too) and needed to be promoted extensively,” Shahrukh said.

Shetty has been actively making films for the past 10 years and came out with the hit Golmaal series, but Chennai Express is Shahrukh’s first film with the successful director.

He lauds Shetty’s films for having variety. “Rohit’s films have a variety; comedy, drama, romance and action… everything. Chennai Express is a comedy film with a love story, but it’s definitely not like Kuch Kuch Hota Hai or Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge,” he said. “It’s a family entertainer. There’s a little action too. It’s something the whole family can sit down and watch together.”

Shahrukh underwent shoulder surgery in May this year. “I’ve always promoted my films extensively… this time, it’s less because I am not well,” he said. “I strongly feel that every film requires the right (amount of) marketing and promotion.”

Different films need different marketing strategies. “It depends on the film — what kind of promotion it needs. We didn’t promote My Name Is Khan that much. Yash ji (Yash Chopra) expired before the release of Jab Tak Hai Jaan, but we promoted Ra One extensively worldwide,” he added.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 6^th, 2013.

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Event manager Frieha Altaf and Managing Director of L’oreal Paris Musharraf Hai, were recently spotted at the L’oreal Paris BB cream launch held at Dolmen City Mall, Karachi. The two veterans of Pakistan’s growing fashion industry, were both sporting uber trendy, neon SanaSafinaz outfits with shorter hemlines and cropped pants. Here is breakdown of what they were wearing:

Musharraf Hai

Hair and Make-up

Musharraf’s blow-dried, wavy hair looks simple and effortless. The smoky eyes and bright bubblegum lips surely add a bit of funk to her overall look.

Outfit

Lime and silk are the two of the biggest trends this season! Musharraf looks chic in a lime printed tunic by SanaSafinaz paired with plain black cropped pants. The silhouette complements her curves well, ending right at her knees – the preferred hemline at the latest fashion scene.

Accessories and Shoes

We are totally in love with the two-toned, embellished belt that Musharraf has cinched at her waist. While she isn’t wearing too many accessories, her neutral-coloured Louis Vuitton shoulder bag and strappy gold sandals add the perfect touches to her funky, glam look.

Frieha Altaf

Hair and Make-up

Frieha keeps it on trend with a mid-parted, low-lying ponytail. The slight twist that she added on the crown is enhancing her shiny locks. It’s a relief to see a fresh, voguish hairstyle. We can’t really figure out if Frieha has any make-up on because of her oversized glasses. As for her lip shade – it looks way too subtle. A brighter pink would have definitely won some extra points on our style-o-meter.

Outfit

She looked radiant in a draped lime top by SanaSafinaz and printed pants. We love the super-stylish cut and that black fringe. If printed pants are too much of a statement for you, go for plain black cropped pants, instead.

Accessories and Shoes

Frieha’s monochrome geometrical clutch is to die for and fits well with those matching heels. Her ‘60s-inspired, cat eye Prada shades seem to take all the attention away and rightly so!

Published in The Express Tribune, August 6^th, 2013.

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LOS ANGELES: Dreamworks Animation SKG Inc, the studio that built one of Hollywood’s largest film franchises on the back of a green ogre named Shrek, has suddenly become one of the entertainment industry’s busiest dealmakers.

In the last year, Dreamworks has bought a YouTube network aimed at teenagers and picked up a company that controls such iconic characters as Lassie and Casper the Friendly Ghost. It acquired the rights to the Troll toy franchise and in June, signed a deal to produce a TV series for streaming video service Netflix Inc. It also plans to build a $3 billion entertainment complex with partners in China.

And Dreamworks isn’t finished.

“There will definitely be more deals,” Chief Executive Jeffrey Katzenberg said. “I have never seen more opportunities to build our brand in our 19 years in business.”

Katzenberg will not say what else is on his list, or whether he prefers to buy or partner with other companies.

One thing still percolating, he says, is a Dreamworks cable channel, “but there’s nothing out there right now for us.”

Dreamworks’ acquisition spree comes at a time when the animated film market has become so saturated with studio-backed fare that the studio’s most recent entry, Turbo, debuted with two other animated films already in the market.

Turbo ended up with lacklustre ticket sales of $21 million in the United States and Canada during its first weekend. Earlier this year, Dreamworks took an $87 million write down for its holiday-themed Rise of the Guardians, and another $54 million charge to rework Me & My Shadow.

Dreamworks hopes acquisitions can help expand its popular franchises, such as Shrek and Kung Fu Panda, beyond the big screen to television, toys and even theme parks.

Investors have welcomed Katzenberg’s diversification strategy, sending Dreamworks shares up 50% in the past year.

Dreamworks also is expanding in China, and is working with partners through a joint venture called Oriental Dreamworks.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 6^th, 2013.

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LOS ANGELES: 2 Guns, starring Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg as rival federal agents, shot through its weekend competition at movie theatres, collecting $27.4 million to lead the North American box office, according to studio estimates released on Sunday.

The Wolverine, last weekend’s box office leader, finished second with $21.7 million in ticket sales and has totaled $95 million during its two weeks in theatres.

Sony’s Smurfs 2, the newly released sequel to its 2011 movie The Smurfs starring Neil Patrick Harris and a band of small blue elf-like creatures, was third with $18.2 million in ticket sales.

The horror film The Conjuring, about a house possessed by a demon, continued its strong run and was fourth with ticket sales of $13.7 million. The animated Despicable Me 2 was fifth after five weeks with $10.4 million in ticket sales.

2 Guns, an adaption of the graphic novel by the same name published by Boom! Studios, fell somewhat short of some industry projections that it would generate about $30 million in ticket sales in a summer in which a number of films have failed to live up to expectations.

Walt Disney’s The Lone Ranger and Sony’s White House Down and After Earth bombed earlier this summer.

“We’re thrilled” with the numbers, said Nikki Rocco, president for domestic distribution at Universal Pictures, which distributed 2 Guns and chalked up its seventh number-one opening this year. She added that “this was a very healthy box office weekend” at a time when “people used to talk about the August doldrums.”

Rocco said the studio had anticipated 2 Guns would open “somewhere in the twenties” of millions, so “we’re very satisfied.”

Smurfs 2 fell short of the $35.6 million in ticket sales for Sony’s 2011 original film, which was released in late July. The film is based on a Belgian comic first published in 1958 that has been expanded into movies, a TV series and even an Ice Capades show.

“We would have hoped for a little more domestically,” said Rory Bruer, Sony Pictures’ president of worldwide distribution. “But worldwide we’re very, very happy with this film,” he added, given the $52.5 million it racked up overseas for a $80.3 million global total.

“It’s the world that’s the stage for the Smurfs,” he added, predicting “this one absolutely is going to be a huge success for the studio.”

Published in The Express Tribune, August 6^th, 2013.

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Pakistan’s new cartoon superhero, who fights bad guys disguised in a flowing black burka, is set to go global, her creator told AFP, with plans afoot to broadcast the show in 60 countries.

The Urdu-language animation Burka Avenger, showing the adventures of a mild-mannered teacher who uses her superpowers to fight local gangsters trying to close down the girls’ school where she works, hit Pakistani TV screens last month.

The kids’ action-comedy struck a chord in a country where Taliban militants have prevented thousands of girls from going to school in the northwest and attacked activists campaigning for their education.

The man behind Burka Avenger, pop star Haroon Rashid, said he had been overwhelmed by the response. “The reception has been absolutely phenomenal, beyond our expectations,” he said. “We were making this little animated TV series for Pakistan but it seems like the whole world wants to know about the Burka Avenger.”

A TV distribution company in Europe has been in touch with a view to translating the show into 18 languages, including English and French, and screening it in 60 countries, Rashid said.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 6^th, 2013.

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Sheer satisfaction and bliss is what resonates from Juggan, who seems to be enjoying every minute of married life. “Before (getting married), when Hamza, my son, used to go to bed, my day would automatically end. Now there is companionship. It’s a settled, calmer and more relaxed situation. I have a complete home and I believe my family life is complete,” says Juggan.

She feels that it is important to find someone who one can share, a deeper level of understanding with, because getting married is a big decision. Clearly, Naqvi is doing a great job at bringing out the best in Juggan. “Scene yeh hai that I have found Feisal to be an understanding and compassionate person. He is pushing me to live my dreams. He is a great help along the way,” she claims. “In our industry (media), when a woman gets married, she wraps up a chaadar around her and sits inside a chaar-diwari.

However, I feel as if my career is getting a re-birth now — I am starting anew.  In today’s day and age, men and women irrespective of who they are, lie to their partners, Feisal certainly does not!”

Shedding light on how they both manage to maintain a balance in their relationship, Juggan says, “He is way smarter than me. He is the one who wins an argument and lets me pretend as if I have won it! We have pretty equal dynamics. But in all honesty, he is book smart. It is a balanced equation.”

One can’t help but wonder how the two keep the fun alive, since they are so different from each other. “Feisal is more of an adventurous and fun-loving person. He is more entertaining. Also, whenever we get bored, he is the one pushing to go out for movies and some other place,” she asserts.

Time and again, media weddings are often subjected to a great deal of criticism and sarcasm and Juggan was no exception. “I (have been) extremely hurt by some really nasty comments thrown at me. I can quote two incidents where people have said, ‘paisa bolta hai!’ — I belong to the Saigol family plus both of us are working people so, what is that supposed to mean? We certainly don’t have ‘jaidaads’ backing us up.”

However, regardless of what people have to say, Juggan is happy that her little boy has a found a companion. “Hamza calls Feisal ‘Baba’. It is certainly good for him to have a man around, with whom he can discuss interests like cricket, football and swimming. Feisal is making an effort with him, reads to him at bed time and is a good father,” she says.

Surely, Juggan is confident about her relationship with Feisal as she foresees it getting stronger with time. “With honesty, trust and mutual respect, I hope to see this (bond) strengthen over the years. Also, there should be a lot of travelling and hanging out besides just spending more time together. I sure hope we’ll be doing some kind project together,” she says.

The couple is all set to honeymoon in Vienna by the end of August.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 6^th, 2013.

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While producer Humayun Saeed is currently not in Pakistan, the film’s writer Vasay Chaudhry tells The Express Tribune that some last minute problems arose. Azam Khan, a well-known film editor who owns the post production house Xperts, passed away during the fine-tuning of MHSA.

“It was really sad for everyone. To troubleshoot, we had to rush abroad to continue the post-production process but unfortunately, we wouldn’t have received the final prints on time,” says Chaudhry.

This, however, is not the only hurdle for MHSA. At the eleventh hour, the previous understanding between distributors and film-makers that no Indian film will be imported on Eid has suddenly been overruled.

While the newspaper ads of MHSA and Bollywood flick Chennai Express read “releasing on Eidul Fitr” and “coming soon” respectively, The Express Tribune has learnt that the latter will be taking MHSA’s slot during the Eid break.

Chaudhry admits that stiff competition from the Shahrukh Khan-starrer is a reason for the delay; Chennai Express has the killer combination of King Khan and Rohit Shetty, a director who has never flopped at the box office.

“Whether you like it or not, we are not ready or willing to compete with a big budget Shahrukh Khan film,” he says.  He adds that he is disappointed and shocked that no one from Lollywood has made an issue of this sudden move to allow Indian films.

“I am surprised that no one from Lollywood or the Film Producer’s Association has said anything about this issue — especially Mr Syed Noor, who is the biggest advocate of banning Indian films in Pakistan and often rambles about it on television,” says Chaudhry. When contacted, Syed Noor said he could be surprised if Indian films were screened on Eid as distributors had given him their word.

While IMGC Entertainment is bringing Chennai Express to Pakistan, Satish Anand of Eveready Pictures is importing yet another expected blockbuster, Once Upon a Time in Mumbai Dobara, which is eventually expected to give MHSA a tough time at the box office.

“We want all these films to have good business because they are supporting the cause of Pakistani cinema,” says Satish Anand. “It is very unfortunate that Main Hoon Shahid Afridi will not be screening on Eid because it takes away the comfort and initial business that any film is supposed to receive on Eid.”

However, Nadeem Mandviwalla, who’s company Mandviwalla Entertainment is distributing MHSA, feels otherwise. “Eid has its advantages and disadvantages, so if a film has to do business it will do so before or after Eid,” he says. He also believes that, given the circumstances, delaying MHSA is the wisest decision as it now has more time for pre-release events and promotions.

“Pakistani films are very personal to the public and they want to see the stars talking about the film,” he continues. “All of this couldn’t have been possible by Eid. The anticipation for Main Hoon Shahid Afridi has already been built up. We can keep building it for another couple of weeks.”

The delay in MHSA has definitely disappointed many cinema goers, who were ready to buy tickets on Eid but will now have to wait for a few weeks. This delay may just be a blessing in disguise for Josh, but only if people treat it as a separate Pakistani film and not a secondary option to Chennai Express.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 6^th, 2013.

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Correction: The abbreviation MHSA was earlier misspelled as MHSH in the story. The error has been rectified.

Though Boom was a box office dud, Katrina’s presence in the movie was noticed by the film industry. However, she truly came to the fore as a result of her controversial relationship with superstar, Salman Khan. Ever since her debut, the 30-year-old has given numerous hits including, Namastey London, Welcome, Singh Is Kinng, Raajneeti, New York and more recently, Jab Tak Hai Jaan, among others.

“Today, she (Katrina Kaif) has become such a big star, reaching to number one position in the industry. It feels good. This shows that hard work and perseverance can get you in right place,” Kaizad told reporters.

Talking about working with the ‘Sheila’ girl, he said, “Why won’t I work with Katrina? Definitely I will. If I get the right script, I will.”

When asked whether he is in touch with his discovery, he said, “Not really. If I have a movie in mind, I will get in touch with her. It’s like that. I don’t like to stay in touch just for the sake of it.”

Kaizad, who is returning to direction after nine years with Jackpot, met Katrina during her modeling days in London. Remembering that time, Kaizad said, “When I met her, I said, ‘You come to Mumbai and you will be a big star’. But it took her six months to come to Mumbai because she didn’t know how to speak Hindi at all.”

“I knew that when I cast her, she will leave an impression… I was just the catalyst, the rest is her hard work,” he added.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 7^th, 2013.

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The hip-hop star felt that Martin’s self-defense act against Zimmerman, who assumed that the teenager in a hoodie was a criminal, was legitimate on the grounds of racial profiling and surveillance by the neighbourhood watch volunteer, reported the Hindustan Times.

“I was really angry, I didn’t sleep for two days,” said Jay-Z, according to the Huffington Post. “We all knew that there was still a bit of racism in America, but for it to be so blatant. If you just ask yourself the question, ‘Didn’t Trayvon have the right to stand his ground?’ He was being chased, he was being chased and he fought back.”

Jay-Z, who also attended a rally in support of Martin, asserted that even though Zimmerman has won, it does not mean that Trayvon was a criminal. “If you try to attack me and I defend myself, how can I be wrong? How is that right? This guy went to get some Skittles and got back to watch the All-Star game. He had plans… he had no intention of robbing anyone’s home.”

The rapper also added that Zimmerman’s surveillance of Trayvon was a form predatory pursuit, which licensed a violent counter-attack by the targeted teen. Considering this case and the current state of racial discrimination in the country, Jay-Z said, “(It’s) a reminder that we still got a long way to go.”

Published in The Express Tribune, August 7^th, 2013.

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We’re always on the lookout for the best (and worst) dressed celebs. Today we’ve analysed these gorgeous ladies who were spotted at various red carpet events around the world.

Priyanka Chopra

Now here is someone who knows how to make a statement! We absolutely love the vintage look Priyanka has going here.

The powder pink Maya Krispin custom jumpsuit fits her like a glove and accentuates her tiny waist. And those sexy Christian Louboutin shoes and bag are droolworthy.

Sharon Stone

There’s no doubt that the actor is smoking hot, but that doesn’t mean she can dress like… well, like she’s wearing her grandfather’s clothes.

The baggy black pants, black shirt and black blazer are too loose and unstructured for someone as feminine as Sharon. We’re loving the wavy hair but give no plus points for the clothes or loafers.

Minka Kelly

The actor was spotted at Lee Daniels’ film premiere looking like a perfect picture of femininity. While the printed, backless dress is beautiful, we are wondering why she decided to go with barely any accessories.

Anna Wintour

The fashion mogul looked as well put-together as ever in her signature oversized glasses and statement necklace. She attended Lee Daniels’ The Butler premiere in New York with nude heels and a matching clutch as part of her accessories.

Teri Hatcher

Attending the premiere of Planes, in which she voices the character of Dottie, Teri looked lovely with her short hair crimped. The gold and white shoulder bearing dress looks lovely, but we wish she had worn more accessories — a cuff or diamond bracelet perhaps. The metallic heels are, however, keepers.

Amanda Seyfried

The actor arrived at the premiere of Lovelace in Hollywood looking smouldering in her updo, kohl-rimmed eyes and nude lips which matched the retro vibe of her short, beaded halter dress. We’re not sure about the shoes and really wish she’d carried a metallic box clutch as well.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 7^th, 2013.

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“I personally love my performances in Bombay Boys and Mirch Masala. It’s fun to play such characters. It’s very boring to play the nice guy and I only like to play that role in real life,” the 63-year-old said.

Jackpot also stars Sachiin Joshi and Indo-Canadian porn star-turned-actor Sunny Leone. They are still new to the industry, and Naseeruddin says working with new actors has never been an issue for him.

“It’s not a new thing for me to work with newcomers. If I have done 250 films in my career, then 150 have been with new directors and as an actor, I was also new once. So I have no issues working with new actors. Both Sachiin and Sunny are professionals and devoted,” he said.

Naseer’s paternal side

Unlike other fathers, who plan perfect launches for their sons, Naseeruddin has set his children free to find their own way, like he once did himself.

The 63-year old has two sons, Imaad and Vivaan, with his second wife, actor Ratna Pathak Shah.

“Both will find their own way. I let them make their own decisions. I don’t give them any advice because nobody gave me any advice. If they are desperate and ask for advice, then I give (it). I let them find their own answers to their problems,” Naseer said.

Imaad entered showbiz in 2006 and has been a part of Yun Hota To Kya Hota, Dil Dosti Etc and 404 Error Not Found, among other films. Vivaan was seen in Vishal Bharadwaj’s 7 Khoon Maaf.

One of the icons of parallel cinema, Naseer blazed a trail with his performances in films like Nishant, Manthan, Sparsh, Aakrosh and Masoom.

When asked what keeps him going, he said there are several things that motivate him to do films.

“I do films only if I feel like doing them, but there may be a variety of reasons (behind) why I feel like doing them,” he said. “Some because of the script, some because it’s fun, some because I want to work with a particular director and some, because of the money — so there are various reasons.”

Naseeruddin is currently busy wrapping up Dedh Ishqiya where he carries forward his character Khalu Jaan from his 2010 hit Ishqiya, which also saw him in a grey character.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 7^th, 2013.

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With life getting busier, spas seem to offer the perfect relaxation spot to put real life on hold for a while and indulge in exotic pampering. Hence, the environment and décor of the spa need to be such that they exude sheer peace and harmony to those visiting. Arammish seems to understand its customers’ priorities well and thus, is green to the fullest and will be running on solar power.

Amna Habib, owner of Arammish, is not only a practiced yogi but also an expert in ayurveda. While the main spa is still being renovated with certain sections under construction, the side that is open to clients is a little haven of ayurvedic delights.

“I am introducing authentic ayurveda here,” says Habib. “It is based on the clients ‘dosha’ analysis — something that nobody else is offering, really.” The environment, work, food and travel, all contribute to the well-being of an individual and collectively determine the ‘dosha’.

Dosha analysis determines the constitution of an individual and helps the trainer understand the sort of treatment will best suit an individual client.

“We develop a series of treatments according to the findings of the analysis,” continues Habib. “Every treatment has a healing property — relaxation is only a part of the process but not the end goal. We have to balance the energies of the client in order to complete the healing of mind, body and soul.”

While there are specific treatments for hair loss, acidity, joint pain and other issues, Arammish is also providing the shirodhara treatment. “This is a treatment for the third eye,” explains Habib. “It enhances the mental ability of the client and helps in performing better by promoting deep, meditative and relaxing thoughts.”

Based on similar energy healing patterns, other treatments include sweat therapy, massage therapy and various kryas (cleansing practices to maintain a healthy body and mind).

Having a passion for natural ayurvedic techniques that help purify the mind, body and soul, Habib points out that her spa will focus on classical ayurveda.

“There are so many natural techniques that can help cure both, simple and complicated, issues. For example, for someone who suffers from acidity, we use spherical balls of dough to form a crater on the stomach and then place heated medicinal oil in the crater, which is allowed to sit for 30 minutes. The oil is then massaged on the abdomen which realigns the intestines,” elaborates Habib.

Along with shirodhara treatment, Arammish Spa also offers Abayanga Massage at their 66 FCC Road premises. “This is a four-hand massage incorporating vigorous movements to release toxins from the ‘Marma’ points (energy points) and the oil used varies from client to client based on the Dosha analysis,” says Habib.

These treatments are available by appointment, only on Wednesdays and Fridays. With spas and wellness treatments becoming a global trend, there is no doubt that ayurvedic treatments will also probably become a la mode. Till then, we wait for the entire spa to start functioning in full swing.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 7^th, 2013.

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