Ergo February 6

A BYTE OF LIFE

Friday, February 6, 2009

POTENT PANTSUIT

08

The new and unlikely red carpet ensemble FREE CIRCULATION

The second auction of DLF Indian Premier League in Goa today will see the eight franchisees outbidding each other in an effort to redo their squads. » PAGE 04 & 05

Vol. 3

No. 23

10 AISHWARYA RAI On her "bit role" in Pink Panther 2

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ERGO Friday, February 6, 2009

Namma Chennai

Tata helpline Tata Motors has launched its 24x7 on-road assistance programme for its cars and utility vehicles. So, in the event of a breakdown call its toll-free number – 1800 209 6688.

Music

The party tonight Music

Mystic Sufi

Does Sufi music interest you? If so, Ruhaniyat is back with their music festival. A number of musicians from different states will be performing. When: February 8; 6.30 p.m. Where: Madras Race Club, Guindy For details call 09324143598

DJ Cheb i Sabbah – referred to as a musical adventurer and global spiritualist – promises to rock Chennai this weekend for his show for EarthSync. Some of his most popular albums include Shri Durga, Maha Maya-Shri Durga Remixed, Krishna Lila, Krishna Lila La Kahena, La Kahena Remixed-EP and La Ghriba-La Kahena Remixed. When: February 6; 8.30 p.m. Where: Pasha, The Park For reservations call 42676000

Music

Fusion treat Around 15 artistes from Germany will entertain Chennaiites with a theatre-dance play titled, ‘E.T.E. – Extended Teenage Era’. The performance is a hip-hop-theatre-dance fusion choreographed by Samir Akika. When: February 7; 7 p.m. Where: Sir Mutha Venkatasubba Rao Concert Hall, Harrington Road, Chetpet For passes call 2833 2343

Theatre

Liar, liar Theatre fans Naseeruddin Shah will be in city this weekend. ‘Ismat Apa Ke Nam’ (Hindi; Feb 7) and ‘Dear Liar’ (English; Feb 8) will be staged. The plays are brought to by Madras Round Table No 1 in aid of Mukti. When: February 7 and 8; 7 p.m. Where: Music Academy For details call 98846 63342/ 2452 7941

Music

Sale

For my gym

No more Bhopal

FitnessOne is having a sale on fitness equipments and accessories. Treadmill, cross trainers, cycles, multi-gyms, benches, yoga mat, dumbbells…there are many things to shop. A discount of up to 40 per cent is also being offered. Drop in at 17/7, Lakshmi Street, New Avadi Road, Kilpauk on February 7 and 8. Call 2647 1222

To commemorate the 24th anniversary of the Bhopal gas tragedy, a group of youngsters has come together to organise a concert titled ‘No more Bhopals’. The concert aims to expose the youth to issues of social justice through different genres of music. Jazz, rock, classical, fusion, Tamil folk…the evening promises to be an entertaining mix. When: February 7 and 8; 5 p.m. Where: YMCA Grounds, Nandanam Tickets for the show are priced at Rs. 200 and Rs. 500, available at Landmark and Planet M Stores. For details call 9840398852/ 9791009160

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Friday, February 6, 2009

Mewar treat

Theru-k-koothu workshop

Chefs Amar Singh and Nabhojit Ghosh promise to treat you to a Mewar food festival at Anise, Taj Coromandel from February 6 to 9. For details call 6600 2827

Indianostrum Theatre welcomes all Theru-k-koothu enthusiasts for a 15day koothu workshop at Purisai village in Cheyyar. Priced at Rs. 100 per day, the workshop will be held on every Saturday and Sunday starting February 7. To register online visit [email protected]. For details contact Aswini - 9444834416 or Sriram- 9884415880

DVD Pick of the Week

The Dark knight It’s only incidental that The Dark Knight is a superhero movie. At its best, it’s a story about crime that’s been rivetingly put together by director Christopher Nolan. Batman, whose grim and intimidating persona is played to the T by the talented Christian Bale, is actually dwarfed in performance by the late Heath Ledger as the Joker. Ledger’s last role before his untimely death is legendary and shall go into the annals of acting. His mere presence on screen is enough to make your neck skin crawl. An Oscar for his performance is certainly on the cards. Aaron Eckhart as District Attorney Harvey Dent/Two Face packs in an amazing show too. The film excels in every aspect. It grips you from the start and doesn’t let you go till the finish. The screenplay’s a stroke of genius: you’ll be mouthing off dialogues on the first occasion you can. It’s the sort of movie you ought to build a home theatre for if you have none. Available in a 2-disc edition, the DVD transfer is good with rich black levels and plenty of image detail. There’s a digital copy of the on the second disc in addition to bonus features like behind-the-scene featurettes, IMAX sequences, and a promotional gallery amongst others. We say, This one’s up there with The Godfather, Pulp Fiction and the likes. It’s a hallmark in movie-making and is 5-star viewing material.

Game worth trying

fable 2 www.fable2.com The story is quite formulaic: a hero is born who will save the land from the evil overlord. There is magic, swords and guns, and of course, dungeons and haunted forests filled with baddies. What is different here is the realism of the game, there is just so much that can happen. The character can be attractive, pure, evil, good, corrupt, fat, thin, ugly or more. There is also no gender bias in this game as you can even be gay or bisexual! Companionship also comes in the form of a canine who follows you on your quest. His presence is downright helpful: he can sniff out buried treasures, attack enemies and do tricks that will impress bystanders. The game’s more expansive than its predecessor as you can own property, have families all over the place, or simply wander around being a hero; it is your fable after all. LOVE Gameplay, visuals, many side quests. HATE not big enough, many restricted areas and enemies are not challenging. We say Fable 2 may not be the biggest RPG game ever but it is your chance to live in a fairytale world, including living in a huge castle with a beautiful wife!

Also available

Surfer, Dude Matthew Mcconaughey is a barefoot soul surfer in this movie. As hard as that is to picture, he really does seem to fit the role incredibly well. An old fashioned wave rider Steve Addington (McConaughey) comes home to California only to find that surfing has become an extremely commercial activity. No more free rides for Addington, who seems concerned more about surfing and cannabis rather than public opinion and his bank balance. The journey is quite fun and the insight into the surfing world might actually inspire you to break out the swim shorts. WE say Lovely scenes of surfing and even Woody Harrelson are in here. Give it a shot!

MUST BIUY GAME

Left 4 Dead www.l4d.com Instead of being trapped alone in some sort of haunted or infected house/mall/ ship/village/city, Valve has decided to change the equation slightly. In Left 4 Dead, four survivors must band together and pool in resources to survive wave upon wave of zombie attacks. The A.I, which changes the pattern of attack constantly, is fantastic, and the multiplayer is really special. You can play survivors or zombies! Love: Intelligent zombies, fun multiplayer. Hate: Game mechanics are a bit fidgety. We say, Zombie or multiplayer fanatics will have ritualistic gatherings for this one

MUSIC ANYONE?

FAll out boy folie A Deux The Aamrican Pop punk band returns with its newest venture, “Folie à Deux”. Starting off in true Fall Out Boy fashion, Disloyal Order of Water Buffaloes is a fast track with a great deal of creative licence. The next track, I Don’t Care, is a lot meatier and leads to a more comfortable feel. However it all goes a bit pear-shaped from here. Not much sticks out other than America’s Suitehearts and West Coast Smoker. One very intriguing song called What a Catch, Donnie, does have a lot of collaborations with other artists as well as a lot of energy. Sound Advice, Even Fall Out Boy fans will take some time on this one; the rest of us will just have to move on to other things.

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ERGO Friday, February 6, 2009

Big Story

GOING ONCE, Forty-three more players go under the hammer in the second IPL auction in Goa on Friday AYON SENGUPTA [email protected]

T

he post-Mumbai attack hostility between India and Pakistan has ruled out any possible Pakistani presence in the second edition of the DLF Indian Premier League, forcing teams to scamper for reinforcements during the second auction window on Friday. Bidding is expected to be as close and high-flying as last year

despite the rippling effect of the global recession, and English stars Kevin Pietersen and Andrew Flintoff are all set to trigger money frenzy with as many as four teams jostling to sign the English all-rounders. Casting aside the economic slowdown, it is reported that advertisers are hammering in over Rs. 600 crore (nearly half the ad budget for cricket in 2009) for this year’s edition, indicating a 10 per cent increase over last year’s overall spending.

Spoilt for choice But even though money may not be a problem for the franchise owners, there are only spots for a maximum of 24 players to be snapped up from the list of 43 up for sale by the eight teams. Furthermore, a top cap of $2 million (Rs. 9.6 crore) on spending by each team can dampen the spirits. Teams like Delhi Daredevils, Chennai Super Kings and Punjab

Kings XI have two slots respectively, while Royal Challengers Bangalore, Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders have one vacant slot each. Royals have the maximum opening with five slots, while Deccan Chargers can sign three. Speaking about their possible targets, Amrit Mathur, CEO of GMR Sports, which looks after the Delhi Daredevils team, says: “The rush won’t be the same as last year as most of the teams have a set plan. A few of the top players, especially the English, who had missed the action last year can see inflated bids but others will only be bargain buys.” Delhi, who reached the last-four

stage in the inaugural edition, are on the lookout for a batsmen after they had traded out Shikhar Dhawan for Ashish Nehra (Mumbai Indians). According to team sources, they are expected to dig deep to acquire the services of South African wonder-boy J.P. Duminy.

South African catch With a base price of $300,000, he is a good purchase and will also be available for most of the tournament, which starts on April 10. The South African players are free after the home ODI series against Australia ends on April 17. In contrast, England players will be available only for the first

Fidel Edwards ($150,000)

Andrew Flintoff ($950,000)

Kevin Pietersen (1,350,000)

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Friday, February 6, 2009

‘‘ GOING TWICE, SOLD! I don’t think anybody is ready to pay that kind of price ($1 million). The reality is in front of him (Michael Clarke). He didn’t want to be unsold in the auction and so decided to pull-out. We asked him to reduce price but he was unwilling. Unfortunately, he pulled out earlier and there was penalty in the first year but this year we have waived off the penalty and I don’t think we will be able to move forward like this.

Lalit Modi

three weeks of the IPL, while the Australians will be free towards the end, after they play Pakistan in an ODI series after the South Africa tour. Others who are expected to join the fight for the Proteas star are Chennai Super Kings, who will miss the services of Australian Mike Hussey (due to his engagements with the Australian side), and champions Rajasthan Royals. Chargers, who lost Shahid Afridi, are also expected to bid for Duminy. The withdrawal of Aussie vice-captain Michael Clarke will raise Duminy’s value further.

Most wanted Mumbai Indians and Vijay

Mallya’s Bangalore Royal Challengers have long since made clear their intention to go in for Pietersen and according to cricket experts his price can go up to $2 million with both teams willing to spend their whole auction budget for the swashbuckling batsman. Whoever fails to pocket Pietersen will unquestionably try to snap his country mate, all-rounder Andrew Flintoff. However, Preity Zinta’s Kings XI Punjab have also expressed their interest in the Englishman, along with Super Kings. Kolkata Knight Riders who will miss two of their pacemen, Umar Gul and Shoaib Akhtar,

are believed to be eyeing Australian Shaun Tait. “Unlike last year, we are assured of the services of Brendon McCullum, Chris Gayle, Brad Hodge and Ajantha Mendis for the entire five weeks. So what we really need is a fast bowler to support Ishant Sharma,” says Joy Bhattacharya, director of the Kolkata side.

Budget buys English players Owais Shah ($150,000) and Paul Collingwood ($250,000), Kiwi Kyle Mills ($150,000), Bangladeshis Mohammad Ashraful ($75,000) and Mashrafe Mortaza ($50,000) and the West Indians Kieron Pollard

Stuart Clark ($250,000)

Shaun Tait ($250,000)

J. P. Duminy ($3000,000)

($60,000), Fidel Edwards ($150,000) and Dwayne Smith (to be confirmed) will also attract attention as utility players. The absent Pakistanis will force the teams to walk a delicate tightrope as IPL rules state that teams can pick one-year replacements for the Pakistani players at the auction but will have to stay within the US$ 2 million cap. But if the teams go for a replacement after the auction, they can spend the equivalent of the amount they would have paid the Pakistani player this year – this replacement will have to be from the original IPL list of 111 players released last week. ■

Ergo Speculations Kevin Pietersen – Bangalore Royal Challengers Andrew Flintoff – Mumbai Indians J. P. Duminy – Chennai Super Kings/ Deccan Chargers Shaun Tait – Kolkata Knight Riders Paul Collingwood – Delhi Daredevils Owais Shah – Mumbai Indians Stuart Clark – Deccan Chargers Ravi Bopara – Rajasthan Royals Fidel Edwards – Rajasthan Royals Kyle Mills – Mumbai Indians

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ERGO Friday, February 6, 2009

Sport

Hughes to open with Katich Youngster Phillip Hughes will replace retired opener Matthew Hayden as one of the most inexperienced squads was named on Thursday to defend Australia’s top position on their crucial three-Test tour of South Africa. Australia, who lost 1-2 at home against South Africa, are in a mustwin situation to retain its number 1 Test ranking. The 20-year-old Hughes, who has scored 891 runs at an average of 74 this season, pipped veteran Phil Jacques, who is returning from an injury.

Word of advice S

outh Africa coach Micky Arthur feels Australia’s days of domination is over and believes India could have very well overpowered them at their own backyard last year but couldn’t because they perhaps did not get enough time to acclimatise Down Under. “I have been acutely aware that many Indians feel a little aggrieved that we were the first team to win in Australia

for 17 years and not India a year earlier!” wrote in his column for Cricketnirvana. “That series will, unfortunately, be remembered for controversy and unhappiness rather than some fantastic cricket that was played – and yes, India finished the stronger of the two teams after a poor start,” said Arthur as he gets ready to square off against Ricky Ponting’s team in another two weeks’ time. “Perhaps there is a lesson in the

way we both started our tours. India arrived four days before the first Test and lost. We arrived 10 days before the first Test and won,” said the South Africa coach who guided his team to Test and ODI series victory over Australia.

On the right track But Arthur is certain both South Africa and India have managed to catch Australia on the wrong foot and believes England too can join in the fray during the Ashes series. “I’m certain the Ashes will be closely contested and, with (Andrew) Flintoff fit, (Kevin) Pietersen motivated and (Steve) Harmison in for, you’d be tempted to make the home team slight favourites – at this stage!” Arthur said “Personally, I don’t believe Australia will ever pull away from the rest of the cricket playing world and establish such dominance again. They revolutionised the way cricketers trained and were coached in the early 1990s and then enjoyed the unprecedented arrival of three or four once in a generation players – at the same time! But the game has changed forever now and, with three different formats and an international schedule packed to bursting point, I can’t see any country being as dominant as Australia were,” he said.

Resources galore Admitting that the cricket playing resources India have can’t be matched by any other team, Arthur said it was immensely satisfying to see his team come through as the best in the series Down Under. “No other country will ever have the cricket playing resources of India, but it was deeply satisfying and exciting for the future to see confirmation that South Africa, at the moment, are far more than just a very good XI. We have strength in depth in most areas.” ■

Starry eyed hero 16-years-old and with a Grand Slam title in kitty, Yuki Bhambri is no ordinary teenager. The top-seed in the boys’ singles draw at the Australian Open hardly sweltered in the Melbourne heat as he brushed past tough opponents to be the first Indian to win the Australian junior title. The Delhi-lad returned home to a rousing reception that left him almost speechless. “It’s a great achievement for Yuki. It’s overwhelming like I said, its unreal,” says Sachdeva who has been Yuki’s coach for past six years. The youngster downed German opponent Alexandros-Ferdinandos Georgoudas 6-3, 6-1 in the final and already has former players Vijay Amritraj and Akhtar Ali voicing their opinion for a Davis Cup call-up for the boy. “In Yuki’s case, he is doing the right thing. Living in Florida and training at the Nick Bollettieri Academy and working hard with the coaches there. The only thing that he needed to do was to get physically stronger, which he did. He is great for Indian tennis,” Amritraj says. With proper guidance and backing from all quarters this junior player is sure to make his mettle felt at the senior circuit in the coming years. (Each week we feature a player who has defied odds and come out as a winner during the past week. If you have a choice of your own for next week send it to us at [email protected])

PTI

Lack of preparation hurt India’s chances Down Under: Arthur PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES

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Friday, February 6, 2009

‘‘

I have enjoyed my time here (AC Milan). I knew I would enjoy it but I didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I have and do as well as I have. I’ve expressed my desire to stay here for a while but at the moment I’m still a Galaxy player. But I hope they can come to an agreement and it’s down to the clubs now. At this point it’s out of my hands. I’ve said what my feelings are to both clubs. David Beckham

Gaurav Gill (left) and his co-driver during a rally in Kochi. PHOTO: STAN RAYAN

On the fast lane F

irst Indian driver to win a Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC) leg, Gaurav Gill is aiming to fetch laurels for the country in more demanding World Rally Championships (WRC) later this year. “I have won the Indonesia stage of the APRC event and now I’m looking forward to do well in the World Rally Championship as well, which is starting next month. I am very much hopeful about top-5 finish after the season,” he says. “I know this championship is much more demanding – both physically and mentally. I am training hard and want to give my best to make the country proud,” Gill, who will be Team Sidvin India’s lead driver in the sixstage event, says.

Unique first Gaurav, who has been roped up by the TSI, first Indian team in the WRC, exudes

high confidence about making an impact in the prestigious event of motorsport, starting in Cyprus, followed by the Portugal leg in April. “Today I am physically in my best condition and preparing hard for the event. Most importantly I want to finish all the stages in which I will participate during the year as it boost the confidence and better the standing of your team,” Gill says. However, Gill admits that the journey forward is not going to be a mare cake-walk for him due to plenty of important but unpredictable factors, which often catch one at the bay. “Besides, a lot of factors including the luck play havoc during an event like rally, which is not synonymous to racing at all. I have to negotiate factors ranging from different road surfaces – hard and patchy, unpredictable weather conditions and hight,” says Gill, who will be driving Tommi Makinen Racing (TMR) prepared Subaru Impre-

za car.

Tough act The World Rally Championship is considered to be one of the most gruelling motorsport events in the world during which the contenders have to pass through contrasting situation like hard terrains to patchy strips and hilly ways to placid roads. “It is also very important to maintain the ’live’ car and regularly upgrade it’s systems including the software and engines. Here the technicians, who are the indispensable part of the unit have great say in teams’ performances,” Gill, who will be helped by fourtime World Rally Champion Tommi Makinen on mechanical technicalities, explains. “Yes, Tommi is a big help for us. I think, his wide experience will make a positive impact on our performances,” he adds. ■ PTI

Gourav Gill eyes glory in World Rally Championship

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ERGO Friday, February 6, 2009

The pantsuit’s

last laugh O

January 7, 2009: Katherine Heigl

February 2, 2009: Penelope Cruz

n red carpets, men wear the black tuxedos and women their carpet-sweeping gowns. Gowns = polished backs and necks, blinding jewellery, neat chignons and dainty heels. Not pantsuits, which they can keep for the luncheons, airport sightings or press conferences. Within a span of a month though, it’s as if the rules changed, the iconoclasts being Angelina Jolie, Katherine Heigl, Katy Perry, Penelope Cruz and Jennifer Aniston. Can’t really call them criminals though, as they did look good (Don’t they always?). Katy Perry attended the NRJ Music Awards 2009 in Cannes, France, in a white satin Dolce & Gabbana pantsuit, a departure from her usual wacky outfits (Manish Arora being a usual favourite). This was 10 days after Katherine Heigl accepted her award for Favourite Comedy movie for 27 Dresses at the 35th annual People’s Choice Awards in L.A. Two days later, at the German premiere of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Angelina Jolie strutted the red carpet in an ivory Akris suit, rolled-up sleeve, et al. While the diamond Asprey mono earring peeping from underneath a retro hairdo received enough attention, the pantsuit remained the centre of wows and ughs. Opinion-wise, we go with the former; doesn’t the worth of a dress lie in the ability of the wearer to carry it off? Forward to two weeks later to Penelope Cruz at the Academy Awards nominee luncheon at Beverly Hills in beige YSL. Probably the most elegant of gown-hangers, Cruz showed she’s good at wearing the pants, too. The same day, Jennifer Aniston attended the premiere of He’s Just Not That Into You in Hollywood, California. The petite actor – despite the presence of Scarlett Johansson (with her blonde hair dyed dark), Jennifer Connelly (in shimmering green Balmain) and Drew Barrymore (in black Lanvin with pink satin bow) – managed to be the best-dressed in black Burberry offset with multiple Fred Leighton gold chains. Contrast this to a few months ago, when pantsuits meant Hillary Clinton and a strict no-no. ■ With inputs from agencies

Ja

Janu Ang

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Friday, February 6, 2009

Portfolio

PRICETAG

The past one month and the pantsuit’s moments of glory

DKNY gift box Valentine’s Day is round the corner and for those wanting to depart from the flowers and chocolates, there’s the DKNY gift box. The gift box brings together a classic timepiece paired with an elegant bracelet. The watch with a stainless crossover has a silver mirrored dial. Available at Lifestyle. Price: Rs. 10,295 onwards.

Versace Pour Homme Versace’s new fragrance for men, Versace Pour Homme, is a vibrant blend of fougere, bergamot and geranium, citrus, clary sage, blue hyacinth, cedar, ager wood, amber and musk. The bottle resembles a facet cut gemstone. An interplay of reflections outlines the profile of the bottle through which the blue of Versace Pour Homme is visible. The incised Greek fret motif in silver, unmistakable emblem of the maison, enhances both the stopper and the outer packaging of the perfume. Available at leading departmental stores. Price: Eau de toilette spray (30 ml): Rs. 2,000 (30 ml), Rs. 2,950 (50 ml) and Rs. 4,100 (100 ml) After-shave lotion: Rs. 2,400 (100 ml) Perfumed deodorant spray: Rs. 2,150 (100 ml) Deodorant stick: Rs. 1,350 (75 ml) Hair and body shampoo: Rs. 1,475 (250 ml)

anuary 17, 2009: Katy Perry

uary 19, 2009: elina Jolie

Nike Zoom Sister One+ Footwear designer Rob Dolan has worked with Nike to create the Nike Zoom Sister One+ for women. The pinnacle of Nike’s Sister Series collection of footwear, this is a bold shoe that offers multidirectional support, enhanced flexibility and natural motion. It combines the revolutionary new DiamondFLX outsole and Flywire support system. Available at all Nike outlets. Price Rs. 6,500 onwards.

February 2, 2009: Jennifer Aniston

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ERGO Friday, February 6, 2009

Pregnancy diet

Flick

Angelina Jolie, who already raises six children with her partner Brad Pitt, has reportedly embarked on a special diet to help her get pregnant.

“I don’t regret my bit role in Pink Panther” I didn’t work in Pink Panther 2 because it was an international project. I got the script. I happily chose to be part of the film.

PTI PHOTO

M

uch has been written about Aishwarya Rai’s so-called minuscule role in Hollywood film Pink Panther 2. While the actress admits it is an out-and-out Steve Martin film, she maintains she signed it for an enriching experience and not for extra footage. “It’s a bit silly and exhausting to even talk about the length of my role based on what’s seen in the trailers. Did anyone question my role in Khakee when there was only one shot of me in the promo? Isn’t that a very myopic view of contemporary acting? In my very first film Iruvar, I thought I transcended this footage fetish,” Aishwarya said. “I didn’t work in Pink Panther 2 because it was an international project. I got the script. I happily chose to be part of the film. They shot exactly what I was offered. I don’t need to work with stardust in my eyes. “Of course, Pink Panther is a Steve Martin vehicle. Is that something to question? All the rest of the wonderful cast including Jean Reno and Andy Garcia play supporting roles. I treasure the experience of working in Pink Panther 2.” Aishwarya says footage is not a burning issue for her. “The choices I’ve made in my career aren’t just about footage but an opportunity to work with actors, directors and technicians who enrich my life. Believe me working in Pink Panther was a joy. “It was a wonderful experience working with a stalwart like Steve Martin and the rest of the cast and crew. Why spoil it by questioning how much footage I have?

So many Indian actors have worked in international ensemble casts.” The actress attended the film’s premiere in New York Tuesday along with husband Abhishek Bachchan. “They wanted me to be here for the film’s promotion from earlier on. But I couldn’t because of my prior commitments in India. We’ve a series of premieres lined up, which started in New York on Feb 3. From there it’s a crazy whirlwind trip that will take me to several countries and continents from Paris to Berlin to Moscow to Madrid. “The final destination for my 15-day trip will take me to a screening at the Berlin film festival. Then I’m back and I go straight to resume Mani Ratnam’s film.” It is a double celebration for Aishwarya in New York this week. First is the premiere of Pink Panther 2 that is followed by Abhishek’s birthday Thursday. The couple plans to celebrate his birthday in style. “Abhishek is in New York with me. But he won’t be able to accompany me for my other premieres because he has to be in India for the promotion of Delhi 6, said Aishwarya, who returns to India Feb 14. Interestingly, Aishwarya was offered the lead opposite Will Smith in Seven Pounds which opens in Mumbai this week. “Will Smith and I will work together for sure,” laughed Aishwarya. “There have been a number of offers. Dates just don’t work out. If he’s keen to work with me, so am I,” said the actress. ■ IANS

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Friday, February 6, 2009

SRK’s gift to wife On being asked as to what he is gifting his wife on Valentine’s Day, Shah Rukh Khan has replied that he is dedicating his entire life to her.

Cine City

Cruz embarrassed herself with poor English

S

panish actress Penelope Cruz embarrassed herself when she first arrived in Hollywood as she accidentally propositioned a hairdresser. According to contactmusic.com, Cruz quickly learned English when she made her US debut in The Hi-Lo Country in 1998. But she admitted that she had to learn the hard way. She said: “When I was in high school I studied French, so I learned English late. When I first came to America I made a lot of mistakes, like going to the hair salon and asking for a b**w j*b instead of a blow dry. ■

Vishal says no to Selvaraghavan Here’s some disappointing news for all you Vishal fans. The actor has decided to call off his current project with director Selvaraghavan. The actor says in his blog, www.vishalblog.com, that “it was a bit of a difficult situation and a tough decision...I was eager to work with Selva and the project itself was an interesting one...” What actually went wrong between the two is not clear. Looks like the new year hasn’t started on a good note for Vishal.

IANS

Barrymore’s 22-year-long crush on Bale

A

ctress Drew Barrymore has had a 22-year-long crush on Batman actor Christian Bale and says she still feels the same for him. Contactmusic.com reports that the two met when they were kids after Bale was cast in the 1987 movie Empire of the Sun, directed by Steven Spielberg. Barrymore is still in love with Bale just as she was when they met at the age of 12. She said: “He’s so cute. And I knew him when he was a kid. He was in Empire of the Sun. If he walked into the room now, I would totally clam up. Or I might go overboard and embarrass myself.” ■ IANS

Mammootty to speak Kannada Actor Mammootty will be making his first appearance in a Kannada film titled Shikari, to be directed by Abhay Simha. The movie to be produced by N.R.Shetty has actress Konkana Sen playing the female lead. The story revolves around the pre and post-Independence era. The hero and heroine go in search of the place they have read in a book. The movie will go on the floors in March. Mammootty in the past has acted with Kannada star Vishnuvardhan in Kankanam, a Telugu film.

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ERGO Friday, February 6, 2009

Wednesday’s Query: Which foreign cricketer would you like to see in Chennai Super Kings for the coming season and why? ■ Ricky Ponting because he is a good batsman. Rajeshkumar P, TCS SNR, Prasanna Chakravarthi, Wipro, M.Abdulgani, Perot Systems

■ Kevin Petersen, it would be a treat watching two hard hitters of the ball, Dhoni and him playing in the same eleven. Jacob Lesly, HCL, Mohan, TCS-Eserve, Dinesh, Cognizant

Vijayakumar from IBM has nominated his friends as Partners in Crime. This pic was clicked at Bekkal Fort.

■ Andrew Flintoff as his presence will not only strengthen our batting but he is also a dangerous bowler making it difficult for the opposition batsman to get going. Mohan Kumar, Allsec, Sangeeth, Ajuba, Vasu, AdventNet, Suree, PK, Mahesh, Saravanan, Arivu, Arun, Simbu, Mohan, Saran, TCS, Naren, Varun, Subash, CTS, Josh, Caliberpoint, Rakshita Sreenivasan Wipro

■ J.P.Duminy for his recent aggressive performance against the Aussies. Vivek, Varun, Wipro T.A.Krishnakumar, HCL Syed, STG Ravi E, TCS SNR

■ Chris Gayle because of his dominating opening batting and hitting the ball all around the park for six and fours this will be good for our team to win the title.

Rahul from Calsoft has nominated his friends as Partners in Crime. This pic was clicked at Kallanai Dam near Tirichy.

Zeeshan, TCS, Sebanto, Cognizant

■ Daniel Vettori because of his experience, but we should retain our brand ambassador Dr.Vijay because of him only last time we reached final. Dhilip RR, Cognizant

■ Brad Haddin because he will help us to take wicket. Mohan Kumar, TCS

Today’s Query: If you were to direct a movie, whom would you cast as hero and heroine? Why?

Venkat from Wipro has nominated his team as Partners in Crime. This pic was clicked at Vandalur Zoo.

13

Friday, February 6, 2009

Mohan Prakash of HCL has been nominated as office angel by T.Sundaresh. He is a very active person, provides support whenever need

■ Hi Kpofcochin, Happy b’day to u Happy b’day to u Happy b’day dear Krishnaprasad Happy b’day to u in advance ;) Best wishes from codc’25 batch

■ Dear Sujana, This is your loving friends wishing you a Happy,happy, happy, happy Married Life. With Love, Mathangi, Subashini, Lakshmi, Priya and Ramya

■ Dear Kavitha, Hope you have a gr8 day. HAPPY BIRTHDAY. And may the coming year bring you good health, happiness and prosperity. Many more happy returns of the day!! Art featured in this column will receive gift coupons from Fruit Shop on Greams Road. Send in your addresses so that we can post the coupons.

Sanjiv Balakrishnan from HCL has doodled this.

Hearty wishes from BoA_T-HUB TATA CONSULTANCY SERVICES

■ Dear Lalith, Instead of counting candles, Or tallying the years, Contemplate your blessings, As your birthday nears. Consider special people Who love you, and who care, And others who’ve enriched your life Just by being there. Think about the memories Passing years can never mar, Experiences great and small That have made you who you are. Another year is a happy gift, So cut your cake, and say, "Instead of counting birthdays, I count blessings every day!" I Remain, Thanks and Regards, Ramesh A Aditya

■ Dear Rahini, Congrats and wish you a Happy married life. May joys overflow in your life making evreyday a celebration for you both. All the best for a bright beginning. Best wishes, Bancolombia Team

An employee to his top boss: "I am sorry to say this sir, your “middle management’ is very poor. The boss:"Hey,how dare you make such a comment to me?" The employee: "Sir, you are thoroughly mistaken; I am referring to your pot-belly." Dheepa, Infosys

■ Beer Anand Danny, On your birthday, Let your life spring with happiness as the beer does Let your life sparkle with joy like a champagne Let your life be sweet like a gin Let your life be clear like the vodka Let your life be colorful like a cocktail Signature,

Roomies/Friends/Buddies Deena/Prabha/Saro/Vino TCS/CTS

Hey Wishing our lovable angel a very happy birthday. Regards, Raja,Shankar,kanmani

■ Dear Lenosh & Deepti, " May God fill ur marriage with memories to treasure; Of faith and trust along the way of love, too deep to measure; And bring to u as Man & Wife, the happiness of knowing; That God, who fills ur cup of life, will keep it overflowing." Heartiest WEDDING WISHES to you both. May u couples be blessed always !!! " Happy Married Life." - Loving Wishes from, Ur Everloving Friends. CGSL.

■ Dear Sathya kutty, Wish you many more happy returns of the day. May this Birthday bring you Good Health, Friendship, and Happiness.. Enjoy da kutti chellam.. With Love, Venki.

■ Hi Avinash, many many happy returns of the day.hope u celebrate many such days with joy and happiness.once again wishing u a VERY HAPPY BIRTH DAY.... --HUTCH SIT testing team, TCS.

■ Dear 76 Restarter, Wish you a Many More Happpy returns of the day. May this b’day bring lot of happiness to you. Atleast for this b’day u give us "TREAT". Wishes from the Heart, M24 Team, FSS

■ Dear Sundar, We wish you on your Birthday and pray the Almighty to make sweetest things happen right before your eyes. Many more happy returns of the day. Greets, VDSI - ITC Team

■ Dear Sury, Wish you Many More Happy returns of the Day!! I hope all your birthday dreams and wishes come true :-) With Lots of Luv, Uma

14

ERGO Friday, February 6, 2009

Traffic Jam

Mini cinema A 73-year-old woman and her 35-year-old husband are to open one of the world’s smallest cinemas in their back garden. Edna and Simon Martin will show silent films at the intimate cinema, called the Savoy Lounge, from the 1920s and 30s.

sudoku

Once a monkey was very thirsty, he searched for water here and there… . Mugesh Kathiresan of Caliber Point Business Solutions shot this in Mahabalipuram. Hobbies: Reading, browsing net, photography

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KAKURO

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Friday, February 6, 2009

Sorry burglars Burglars who stole half-eaten cans of food from a house in Norwich, England, returned their haul the next afternoon - with a note saying sorry. The thieves took plastic pots of baked beans, butter, tuna and half-baked bread, alongside computer games, a computer console controller, DVDs and a sat-nav.

B.C ARIES MARCH 21 - APRIL 20 You may face delays or difficulties in work due to problems in a technical device or because of some malfunction. Remain cool. True love to your partner may be expressed very passionately and your heartbeats may be playing higher octaves.

TAURUS APRIL 21 - MAY 20 You may handle all prior and minor responsibilities very well at office. There will be complete job satisfaction. At home you may be in a happy mood. The day promises complete satisfaction on personal and professional fronts.

GEMINI MAY 21 - JUNE 20 Ganesha finds you busy solving complicated issues related to work. Your analytical abilities may help you fix problems quickly. You might have to work till late. In personal life, you might have to put in efforts to convince yourpartner for a particular point.

BORN LOSER

CANCER JUNE 21 - JULY 20 You may be very quick and accurate in your work today. Ensure that you don’t change subjects very quickly. Your personal life seems to be hassle free and smooth going like the flow of water, says Ganesha.

LEO JULY 21 - AUG 20 There can be re-establishment of lost contacts. Similarly, you can be working on methods or matters lost in time. At home, you may prefer comfortable life and wish to have delicious food. In short, it is a day with mixed bag for you.

VIRGO AUG 21 - SEPT 20

FREE RANGE

WORKING IT OUT

If your prime area of work is research, it is highly favourable day for you. Your demand may increase at office and if important meetings are arranged, you may be able to communicate your ideas well. In personal life, there may not be any problem.

LIBRA SEPT 21 - OCT 20 Ganesha foresees you getting rewards in proportion to your efforts. Your bosses will encourage you. You may be assigned more responsibilities. On the personal front, you may remain uncomfortable due to some odd conversation with mate or beloved.

SCORPIO OCT 21 - NOV 20 Ganesha finds you highly determined today. While you are active and in good mood at work, ensure that your vindictive side of nature is restrained. In personal life, you may desire to spend private and undisturbed wonderful time with your beloved one.

SAGITTARIUS NOV 21 - DEC 20 Ensure that you don’t run behind fruitless pursuits today. Your abilities to take things in right spirit may be a little low today. Try to remain objective and take things on face value. In relationships, you are advised to avoid ’doubts’ and ’blame-games’.

CAPRICORN DEC 21 - JAN 20 If you are handling a team, your time may be spent in sorting out their issues. You may need to act more tactfully today. In personal life, you may avoid sticking firmly to your own views and may cultivate tendency to ’let go’.

PREVIOUS ISSUE’S SOLUTIONS

AQUARIUS JAN 21 - FEB 20 You are advised to avoid being impatient as it may lead you nowhere. If you rush for things, you may not achieve desired results but if you let things happen on their own, it will be better. It may be a little challenging day on the personal front.

PISCES FEB 21 - MARCH 20 Ganesha foresees you feeling upset due to someone else’s progress. You are not jealous by nature but you may wish you would have progressed so well. Greater concern for someone you love the most may make you very emotional and touchy today. Predictions by Bhavesh N. Pattni

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16

ERGO Friday, February 6, 2009

Judge them!

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Reality shows increase popularity by roping in celebrities and the latest set of actors to join the bandwagon are Srikanth and Namitha. The two have been asked to judge the game show Boys vs Girls to be aired on Vijay TV.

I am ready to face the ban:

Nayan A

day after Nayanthara was banned by the Tamil Film Producers Council and the South Indian Film Actors Association from signing any projects in Tamil, the actor has strongly reiterated that she is ready to face the ban. The ban was issued on Wednesday by the council following a complaint lodged by Subash Chandra Bose, the producer of Paiyya. Nayanthara, who was signed to play the female lead in the movie, was reportedly paid an advance of Rs. 15 lakh. Later, due to some issues on payment she was showed the way and the team roped in Tamanna for the role. Subash later lodged a complaint to the council that Nayanthara has not returned the advance paid to her. After discussions with both the parties, the Producers Council issued a

directive to its members not to cast Nayanthara in their films with immediate effect. The council has also said that it would hold discussions with the producers’ councils of other languages on the same. Reacting to this, Nayanthara has reportedly said that she will not pay back the advance and was ready to face the ban. Nayan’s grouse is that the film’s crew wasted her call-sheet days and she was unable to sign any project during the schedule as she was expecting calls for the Paiyya shoots. “As she incurred loss for the said days, she will not return the advance,” a source close to her has said. Nayanthara is currently working in Bodyguard, a Malayalam flick with actor Dileep playing the lead. Bold Nayan! Ergo Correspondent