#although the latest is about desi

[papermoonloveslucy]

MOVIES on TV!

Part 1 ~ The Movies of “I Love Lucy”

When “I Love Lucy” premiered in 1951, Lucille Ball was a bona fide movie star. By contrast, her creation Lucy Ricardo was a fan - idolizing film stars and Hollywood. 

~FACTUAL FILMS~ 

THE TALL MEN ~ “Lucy Visits Graumans” (1955) 

Other than this establishing shot, there is no mention of the film, which starred Clark Gable and Jane Russell. “Lucy” actors Will Wright and Harry Shannon were also in the cast. It premiered at Graumans on September 22, 1955. 

BLOOD ALLEY ~ “Lucy and John Wayne” (1955)

The film is promoted by Wayne approving of a large poster of the film, which co-starred Lauren Bacall. 

SABRINA ~ “Getting Ready” (1954)

LUCY: (on the phone) “Would you like me to give a message to any of the gang out there? You know, Clark or Cary or Van or Marlon? Oh, all right. (writing) Tell Bill Holden that Marion Van Vlack saw ‘Sabrina’ five times!”

Sabrina is a 1954 romantic comedy-drama directed by Billy Wilder, based on Samuel A. Taylor’s play Sabrina Fair. In addition to Holden, the movie starred Humphrey Bogart and Audrey Hepburn. “I Love Lucy” character actors Ellen Corby and Nancy Kulp play supporting roles.

THE COUNTRY GIRL ~ “L.A. at Last” (1955) 

William Holden promotes his latest film co-starring Bing Crosby and Grace Kelly. Also in the cast were “Lucy” actors Sarah Selby, Frank J. Scanell, Gene Reynolds, Paul Fix, and Harold Miller. 

THE BIG COMBO ~ “The Star Upstairs” (1955)

Cornel Wilde promotes his latest film co-starring Richard Conte, Brian Donlevy, and Alan Wallace. Also in the cast were “Lucy” actors Jack Chefe and William Conaty. 

A PRIZE OF GOLD ~ “The Tour” (1955) 

Richard Widmark promotes his latest film, his first for Columbia Pictures. 

CAMILLE ~ “The Dancing Star” (1955)

While singing “How About You” with Van Johnson, Lucy mentions the 1936 film Camille, which starred Greta Garbo and Robert Taylor. Although Taylor never appeared on the series, Lucy claims to have met him at the Farmer’s Market and gotten his autograph on an orange. As for Van Johnson, he appeared with Lucy and Desi in Too Many Girls (1940) and with Ball in Easy To Wed (1946).  

There are several other mentions of the film throughout the series, but it is unclear if they are referring to the character from the Dumas fils book and play or the film. This is also true of Gone With The Wind. 

CAPTAIN LIGHTFOOT ~ “In Palm Springs” (1955)

Guest star Rock Hudson promotes his latest film co-starring Barbara Rush and Jeff Morrow. 

THE SHEIK ~ "The Hedda Hopper Story" (1955)

MRS. MCGILLICUDDY: "Oh, and I must see the house where Rudolph Valentino lived.  Oh, I'll never forget him in ‘The Sheik’.  (sings) I'm the Sheik of Araby. Your love belongs to me..." LUCY: "You know, they're grooming Ricky to be another Rudolph Valentino." MRS. MCGILLICUDDY: "Ricky? Ricky who?" RICKY: "Ricky me. That's who." MRS. MCGILLICUDDY: "You? (mocking laugh) Why, you're not fit to touch the hem of his bernouse!"

THE IRON PETTICOAT ~ “Lucy and Bob Hope” (1956)

As Hope enters Yankee Stadium, a young fan (David Saber) asks him for an autograph. Before granting it, he asks the boy “Have you seen my latest picture, ‘The Iron Petticoat?’”  The boy eagerly replies, “Yes, sir.”  However, the film, co-starring Katherine Hepburn, didn't premiere in the USA until early January 1957, three months after this episode aired. It was produced and directed by Ralph and Betty! Not the Ramseys, but Betty Box and Ralph Thomas. Hope had appeared in two films with Lucille Ball, and would do two more. 

LIFEBOAT ~ “The Celebrity Next Door” (1957) 

Ethel gushes to Tallulah Bankhead that she saw her in Lifeboat (1944). 

SAYONARA ~ “The Ricardos Go To Japan” (1959)

Trying to be savvy about Japanese customs, Lucy says she sat through Sayonara twice. The 1957 film details a romance between an Air Force pilot (Marlon Brando) and a Japanese woman (Miyoshi Umeki), winning four Oscars.

FOREVER DARLING ~ “Ricky’s European Booking” (1955) 

The episode features the Pied Pipers singing the title song from Lucy and Desi’s upcoming fantasy film featuring James Mason. 

At the end of the original broadcast of “Bon Voyage”, there was a tag scene to promote the film (and record). Although cut for syndication, the DVD restores this tag scene. Lucy and Desi [or is it Ricky?] are seen sitting in deck chairs.

LUCY: “Did you see the ship’s newspaper? They just raved about your new MGM record of ‘Forever, Darling.’ They said it’s gonna be one of the top records of the year. Let’s get them to play it on the public address system. I know how modest you are, but think what a treat it would be for the passengers.”

SEVEN BRIDES FOR SEVEN BROTHERS ~ “Lucy in the Swiss Alps” (1956)

LUCY: “You remember that picture 'Seven Brides for Seven Brothers'? Somebody shot a pistol and it caused a great, big avalanche.”

After getting trapped by an avalanche, Ethel asks “How'd they get out in 'Seven Brides for Seven Brothers'? Lucy replies that “They waited for the spring thaw!”

~FICTIONAL FILMS~

DON JUAN

The film that takes Ricky Ricardo to Hollywood is mentioned in dozens of episodes. 

“Don Juan is all about love. It’s got nothing to do with marriage.” ~ “Don Juan and the Starlets” (1955)

SIGNORA LORENZO: “Hark! Do I hear a footfall? Is that you, Don Juan?” DON JUAN: “Yes, it is I, O lovely one. Would that I had the power to tell you what is in my heart tonight.” SIGNORA LORENZO: “What do you mean, my dearest?” DON JUAN: “I have come to say farewell.“ SIGNORA LORENZO: “No, say not so.” DON JUAN: “Would that I could ask you to fly with me, but I know that you’re devoted to your husband, Count Lorenzo.” SIGNORA LORENZO: “Yes, much as I love you, I must stay with him. He is old and feeble and he needs me.” DON JUAN: “But for him, I would sweep you into my arms and carry you over yon garden wall.” SIGNORA LORENZO: “Oh, that I could cut these ties that bind me!” DON JUAN: “Do not cry, my dearest. It was not meant to be. I had no right to win your heart. I had no chance to win your love. So, now, I’m afraid I must say farewell."

Lucy reads that Variety reports that Ricky’s Don Juan is scheduled to have a $3 million budget and be filmed in color. Errol Flynn played Don Juan in Adventures of Don Juan in 1948, which was also in color and budgeted at 3.5 million dollars. Douglas Fairbanks played the character in 1934, and John Barrymore was in a 1926 version that featured a young Hedda Hopper, before she turned to journalism.

MOON OVER BAGHDAD ~ “The Mustache” (1952)

A talent scout (John Brown) is casting a new film called Moon Over Baghdad, an Arabian nights-style Technicolor extravaganza. This is the first time we get a hint of Ricky’s movie aspirations, which will eventually take the foursome to Hollywood in season 4. Through tenuous connections (“My agent has a friend whose brother-in-law knows the talent scout’s wife.”), Ricky, Lucy (beard concealed), and the Mertzes all vie for his consideration. In the final scene, Lucy has finally managed to remove her whiskers and Ricky lands a screen test for the film, although we never hear anything about it again, even when he tests for Don Juan in season 4.  There’s also an offer for Lucy.

LUCY: “I don’t care what they pay me. I am not going to play the part of your father!”

WOMEN FROM MARS ~ “Lucy is Envious” (1953) 

Lucy and Ethel make money to fulfill a pledge by doing a stunt for an upcoming film, Women from Mars. The plot was most likely inspired by the 1953 film The War of the Worlds which is also about a Martian invasion. Two days before this episode aired, a British film called Devil Girl from Mars hit US cinemas. Also hitting the big screen in 1953 was Invaders From Mars, which featured Hillary Brooke (“The Fox Hunt”) and Richard Deacon (“The Celebrity Next Door”). America had Martian madness!

BITTER GRAPES ~ “Lucy’s Italian Movie” (1956)

On the train to Rome, Lucy is eyed by Vittorio Philippi (Franco Corsaro). Taking the title literally, Lucy investigates the wine-making business, leading to one of the funniest scenes in television history as Lucy stomps grapes. 

After a tussel in the vat, Lucy proves to ‘blue’ for the role - a typical American tourist - which goes to Ethel instead. Lucy one bitter grape! 

TROPICAL RHYTHMS ~ “Home Movies” (1954)

Ricky creates an audition film for a television project. Then Lucy and the Mertzes add their own home movie (a Western) to create a very chaotic film. 

GUYS & DOLLS ~ “Lucy and the Dummy” (1955)

When the episode was running short, a preview clip of the upcoming MGM film musical starring Frank Sinatra was inserted into the Executive Show sequence. After one airing, the sequence was removed and has never been restored. The morning after the original broadcast, fans phoned a bewildered Sinatra to tell him he was on “I Love Lucy” last night - which he knew nothing about! 

~UNMENTIONED TITLES~

Un-Titled Florida Project ~ “Desert Island” (1956)

Ricky announces that he’s going to be in a film about the history of the state of Florida. The movie will feature Claude Akins (as a giant native), Joi Lansing and Jil Jarman. Ricky says he will appear in the ‘modern’ scenes playing with his band in the hotel nightclub. In real life, Desi Arnaz got his start in showbusiness in a Florida nightclub.

CLUNY BROWN ~ “The Fox Hunt” (1956) 

A few seconds of establishing stock footage of Berkshire Manor was taken from the 1938 Ernst Lubitch film Cluny Brown, which was filmed by 20th Century Fox in a Hollywood studio, but takes place in England. In the film, the home is named Friars Carmel Manor, but with the exception of the lettering bearing the name, the footage is identical.

STAGE DOOR ~ “Lucy’s Italian Movie” (1956)

LUCY: “The calla lilies are in bloom again.”

This is a quote from Stage Door (1937), which Lucille Ball always called her ‘big break’. It was Katherine Hepburn’s first line in the play within the film, and was repeated throughout the movie. Ball always admired Hepburn, and it is possible the writers included the line as an homage to her.

BUS STOP ~ “Lucy and Superman” (1957) 

The Appleby’s come over for a social evening. As the scene opens, Caroline is in mid-sentence talking about a film.  

CAROLINE: “And he picked up Marilyn Monroe, slung her over his shoulder and carried her off!”

Although the title is never mentioned, the film they are discussing is Bus Stop, starring Marilyn Monroe and Don Murray. It was released in August 1956, two and a half months before this episode was filmed. Frequent “Lucy” character actor Hans Conried has a featured role in the film.

HOW TO MARRY A MILLIONAIRE ~ “Changing the Boys Wardrobe” (1953)

The gang is heading to the movies to see “That picture we’ve been trying to get to for weeks with Marilyn Monroe.” The movie is either Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, which premiered in New York City in July 1953, or How To Marry A Millionaire, which premiered (just in Los Angeles) one day after this episode was filmed.

ETHEL: “Wasn’t that a wonderful dress she had on in the big number?”  

Both films were musicals, so this doesn’t narrow it down very much. In either case, it is likely that the title goes unmentioned because Lucy and Desi had just filmed The Long, Long Trailer for MGM Studios and How To Marry a Millionaire and Gentlemen Prefer Blondes were 20th Century Fox pictures.

~FILM INSPIRATIONS~

MURDER AT THE VANITIES ~ “Lucy Gets Into Pictures” (1955)

Lucy finally gets a part as a murdered showgirl in an (un-named) Hollywood movie directed by Ricky’s friend Frank Williams (Lou Krugman). The film may have been inspired by 1934′s Murder at the Vanities, in which Lucille Ball had an uncredited role as a showgirl.

THE MAJOR AND THE MINOR ~ “The Kleptomaniac” (1952)

Under hypnosis (and with a knowing wink to Ethel), Lucy reverts to childhood, with a story and a voice doubtlessly influenced by Ginger Rogers in the 1942 film The Major and the Minor. 

LUCY: “It all started when I was a little girl. I was riding on the streetcar one day and I looked up and I saw a box and it said, 'take one.’ So I took one. From then on, I took anything that came into my pretty head even though it didn’t say 'take one.'  I took a bright new penny. I took a bicycle. I took a little boy. But my mother made me give him back.

DUCK SOUP ~ “Lucy and Harpo Marx” (1955) 

The mirror routine between Lucy and Harpo was first performed by Groucho in Duck Soup (1933). Lucille Ball and Harpo had appeared together in Room Service in 1938 for RKO Studios. 

DANCE, GIRL, DANCE ~ “Bullfight Dance” (1955)

The final look for Lucy’s bull costume was no doubt inspired by Ferdinand the Bull, the story of the bull who’d rather pick flowers, than face the picador.  The character was integral to the story of Lucille Ball’s 1940 film Dance, Girl, Dance.

GENTLEMEN PREFER BLONDES ~ “Second Honeymoon” (1956)

The plot of this episode very closely follows the adventures of Lorelei Lee (Marilyn Monroe) in the 1953 film Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. In common with this episode and the film is extra Monty O'Grady, who played a passenger on both vessels!  Also look for “I Love Lucy” actors Norma Varden (Mrs. Benson in “The Ricardos Change Apartments”), Elliott Reid (Edward Warren from “Face To Face”), and Bennett Green (Desi’s stand-in and veteran background player).

Lorelei’s dinner companion turns out to be a seven year-old boy, just like Lucy’s ping pong partner turns out to be young Kenneth Hamilton played by nine year-old Harvey Grant.

Lucy gets stuck in a porthole just as Lorelei did, also draping a blanket around her shoulders so passersby wouldn’t know what was really going on.

~FILM FUNNIES~

“Ricky Needs an Agent” (1955)

Trying to suggest possible film projects for Ricky, Lucy insert him into the titles of some of Hollywood’s best-known movies:

“Ricky, Son of Flicka” / Thunderhead, Son of Flicka (1945)

“A Streetcar Named Ricardo” / A Streetcar Named Desire (1951)

“Gone With the Cuban Wind” / Gone With the Wind (1939)

“Three Cubans in a Fountain” / Three Coins in the Fountain (1945)

“It Happened One Noche” / It Happened One Night (1934)

“Seven Brides for Seven Cubans” / Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (1954)

“Meet Me in St. Ricky” / Meet Me in St. Louis (1944)

“The Ricardos of Wimpole Street” / The Barretts of Wimpole Street (1957)

“Andy Hardy Meets the Conga Player” / Andy Hardy Meets Debutante (1940)

“Arsenic and Old Ricky” / Arsenic and Old Lace (1944)

[desipubs]

Yesterday I met my friend Dawn for my latest Desi Pub visit. I had a mixed grill last week, but that wasn’t a new location.

We went to the Boulevard Sports Bar in Southgate. Sadly, my ‘guide’ book gave the wrong address so I had to spend a bit of time in the heat locating the bar.

The Boulevard is owned and run by an East African Indian with a Jain and Hindu heritage, which makes it a bit different to the mostly Punjabi/Sikh Desi Pubs I am used to. This of course, did not change my order 😂

The Boulevard has a main room with quite a lot of tables, number of rooms, one main room which has 5 screens showing sport and the bar. There was a second room that I think doubles up as a function room.

There are eight pumps, one of which was a cider.

The mixed grill appeared in the starters and was priced at £19.95, I guessed it is designed a sharing starter. It consists of a selection of chicken tikka, chicken wings, two lamb seekh kebab and a couple of lamb chops.

The food was decent, although I have had better. The menu, had quite a wide variety of curry dishes, including vegetarian options.

The kebabs were well seasoned and may have been the stand out dish, the chops were nice too. I have had better tikka and wings, the condiments were tasty but the onions could have been better.

The mixed grill, for the price, could have had more so gets 0.75 points for the components.

The kebabs and lamb chops can have 0.75 each. The chicken tikka and chicken wings can have 0.5. I am only going to give the onions 0.25. The condiments can have 0.5 points.

£19.95 is very pricey, but it is London. I think I will only award them 0.25 for the price point.

Eight pumps is about average , so they can have 0.75 points.

It was quite white, but there was a group of older Asian men who were having some kind of meeting which makes me think it is probably more diverse than I saw last night. They had a decent number of screens. They were also very friendly, although the wait staff was not as funny as they thought! They can have 0.5 for ambiance.

The total for Boulevard Sports Bar is 5.5

The Boulevard Sports Bar is at 115 Friern Barnet Road, Southgate, N11 3EU.

[fashionwithshivi]

WHAT’S FASHION?

Fashion refers to the latest and popular styles of clothing, hair, decorations or behavior. Fashion has its associations with socio-psychological aspects that are quite intricate and multifaceted. The term fashion is used interchangeably to describe the creation of clothing , footwear , accessories, cosmetics and jewellery of different cultural aesthetics and their mix . Although fashion is loved by everyone it still has adverse effects on people as well as environment. Therefore by changing our habits, choices we can contribute towards the betterment of the society. One of these aspects can be SUSTAINABLE FASHION

SUSTAINABLE FASHION

Sustainable fashion is a way in which brands create clothing that helps us reduce the bad impact on environment caused by fashion.  Sustainable fashion is a great way to look stylish while also taking care of the environment. It is a fashion that is ethically made and is comparatively environment friendly . as much as it sounds simple , sustainable fashion results in more overheads that can reduce profit margins. For the fashion industry to become sustainable we as a buyer need to be ready to pay more and retain from buying brands that have no regards for the environment

BRANDS THAT FOLLOW SUSTAINABLE FASHION :

There are several brands that follow sustainable fashion practices or are starting to do so some of these popular brands are patagonia, Reformation, Eileen fisher . Some popular Indian sustainable brands include BUNA, DOODLAGE, UPASNA,  ANOKHI  and PERO, FABINDIA.

ABOUT ANOKHI: Anokhi is a sustainable apparel brand that specializes in hand- block printing on textiles. It has a strong focus on sustainable and ethical practices. They use natural materials like cotton and linen. They also have a recycling program where customers can exchange their old Anokhi products for discounts on new one.

HOW A BRAND CAN BE SUSTAINABLE?

Sustainable branding is important. For a brand to be sustainable the materials used can be natural fibres that does not hurt the environment. The packaging should be more environmentally friendly. Considering a remote working environment would help a lot in reducing pollution. Usage of nature dyes would help a lot too.

HAND CRAFTED FASHION AND HANDICRAFTS

Handcrafted fashion refers to clothing, accessories or products that are made by skilled artisan or labour using traditional techniques and craftsmanship . it celebrates the artistry and uniqueness of handmade items. These pieces often showcase intricate details and reflect rich cultural heritage pf different regions. This fashion category is often sustainable as well as ethical . It is entirely made by hand . spme examples include FABINDIA, JAYPORE, TJORI, GLOBALDESI, INDUS PEOPLE and many more . These brands specialize in showcasing traditional indian handicrafts like block printing, hand embroidery, zari , aari and many more . they work closely with skilled labour across the country to bring their craftsmanship to a wider audience

TREND SPOTTING

For the trend spotting we were asked to spot for the clothes that are currently in trend , for this we went to a field trip to mall where we explored brands like forever 21, And, global desi , sketchers , max , globus and shoppers stop

COLOURS : Shades of blue like cobalt blue was very common in every store from kids to adult this blue has captured the fashion industry . This colour is completely genderless allowing for a wide customer group to experiment with the hue and make it their own . Other colours in trend were neon pink and green

BOTTOMWEAR: cargo pants are surely in trend every where round the globe and hence the brands were filled with various colours of cargos covering women, men as well as children. As we all are aware denims never go out of style so there were wide leg denim pants with funky prints . There were denim dungree and jumpers as well.

WINTER WEAR : the winter wear this year showed a lot of changes . There were less hoodies and jackets and more of cardigans and sweaters in oversized fit.

TOPS AND DRESSES : printed crop tops and dresses were spotted in almost every western store. Floral prints, checks and polka dots have conquered the fashion society once again. Co ord sets are also very in trend right now from woolen to polyester they were available in every fabric.

ETHNIC : organza , zari and velvet can be spotted very easily.

[richincolor]

We are so excited to have Nandini Bajpai on our blog today to talk about her latest book, A MATCH MADE IN MEHENDI:

Fifteen-year-old Simran “Simi” Sangha comes from a long line of Indian vichole-matchmakers-with a rich history for helping parents find good matches for their grown children. When Simi accidentally sets up her cousin and a soon-to-be lawyer, her family is thrilled that she has the “gift.”

But Simi is an artist, and she doesn’t want to have anything to do with relationships, helicopter parents, and family drama. That is, until she realizes this might be just the thing to improve her and her best friend Noah’s social status. Armed with her family’s ancient guide to finding love, Simi starts a matchmaking service-via an app, of course.

But when she helps connect a wallflower of a girl with the star of the boys’ soccer team, she turns the high school hierarchy topsy-turvy, soon making herself public enemy number one.

The synopsis for A MATCH MADE IN MEHENDI really grabbed my attention! Can you tell us more about the matchmaking Simi uses—and turns into an app—in the book?

Simi has watched her mother and aunt match people all her life and has definitely picked up on their methods. They judge compatibility by paying attention to shared values, priorities, and aesthetics instead of more superficial qualities. To quote from the Shagun Matchmaking Guide, the book passed down in Simi’s family, “Common sense can help judge the suitability of a match. Ask yourself: Do they agree on what’s right, what’s important, and . . .what’s funny?” Simi implements this by creating quizzes and memes for her peers to answer and rate in her dating app. The answers are run through an algorithm designed by her tech savvy brother and that’s how the app finds matches. It’s like automating the very hands-on approach of her foremothers with a lot of help from modern technology.

Simi sounds like a fun character. What did you enjoy most about writing her?

Simi was a fun character to write and it was interesting to try to understand her and be in her head. She did respect her family history but had to push back and test their methods in her own way. I liked her loyalty to her friends and family and how she tried to defend others instead of being a bystander. I also loved how she decided that she did not need permission from anyone to try and make an impact and leave her own mark in the world. It’s hard to make the choice to be your authentic self when it doesn’t fit other people’s idea of cool, and I enjoyed writing about her doing that.

Simi is an artist, and one of the art forms she uses is mehendi. What can you tell our readers about mehendi?

Mehendi, also known as henna, is a form of body decoration that is tightly linked to many ancient customs and traditions in South Asia and other regions where it is grown. The paste used for mehendi comes from the leaves of the mehendi plant…we had a mehendi hedge in a house I lived in growing up in India and I have great memories of mehendi at so many weddings and festivals. Simi is a talented artist and experiments with using mehendi in non-traditional ways for her art. She loves the organic feel of the mehendi dye and the link to her cultural heritage and is inspired to create with it. It also plays a role in finding her own match!

Besides Simi, who are the other major characters in the book? Please give us a brief introduction to them.

Well, there’s Simi’s best friend Noah. He and Simi have been friends since kindergarten and he nudges her to try the app at school to get people out of their perceived lanes and connect with each other. Both Simi and Noah would like to find and date the perfect boy. There’s Navdeep, Simi’s brother, the tech whiz behind the app. He doesn’t look like he’s paying attention, but he always has her back. And Aiden and Suraj…Simi’s crushes, not saying which one she’s with in the end. There are all the couples that Matched! app pairs up too. And there is Amanda, the girl who thinks she deserves all the things she wants, including the most popular boy in school.

Finally, there’s Simi’s extended family including her mom, aunt, and grandmother—the senior matchmakers in the family—and her twenty something cousins Geet and Preet who have absolutely no interest in the family matchmaking tradition.

If you could make an app that would go viral like Simi’s, what would the app be for?

I was asked that question before and my idea was to have an app that could take the list of books you love and tell you what book to read next, but my editor Nikki Garcia came up with a better idea–an app that could find your perfect match based on comparing both your book lists!

According to your website, A MATCH MADE IN MEHENDI is your first U.S. book, but you’ve published before in India. Have you noticed any interesting differences between the two industries?

There are so many differences! In India the young adult genre is very new and right now YA books kind of fall in the crack between children’s books and adult titles, though this is changing. The length of time it takes to go from a manuscript being acquired to being in print is much shorter there. There is no School and Library market for children’s books there yet and very few review journals. There are lots of regional languages apart the national language, Hindi, so the English language market is relatively small. Literary agents are rare too. I could go on…

What 2019 YA books by or about people of color or people from First/Native Nations are you looking forward to reading?

Right now the books at the top of my (very large!) 2019 TBR pile are The Downstairs Girl by Stacey Lee, Dear Haiti, Love Alaine by Maika Moulite, Patron Saints of Nothing by Randy Ribay, and Internment by Samira Ahmed. I’m also looking forward to The Light at the Bottom of the World by London Shah.

Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about A MATCH MADE IN MEHENDI?

I’d just like to say that A Match Made in Mehendi is a happy, feel-good read that celebrates desi culture and centers joy and I think it’s very important to have books about POC that do that!

Nandini Bajpai’s Bio:

I grew up in New Delhi, India, one of four sisters and many cousins in a family that liked to read. I lived and worked in India, Australia, and the US, before settling in the Boston area with my husband, kids, and a fluctuating number and variety of pets. Although I’ve been a bookseller, systems analyst, TEDx organizer, PTO Mom, animal foster and more, my first love is writing.

[pardumansuri]

Coronavirus latest update in India | coronavirus astrological  interest

Coronavirus : Rahu, Ketu and Jupiter ?

What does Vedic Astrology say about #coronavirus? Usually, Viruses are connected to Rahu Ketu. All 2019 there was tight Ketu conjunction with Saturn, Now Rahu and Ketu are in fierce Ardra and Mula, their own nakshatras, We should not ignore the role of Jupiter in making it global.

#Astrology refers to the study in which the auspicious and inauspicious effects of planets and stars are studied on humans and the Earth. The compound meaning of the word astrology is lore related to planets and constellations.  Although mathematics (theory) is also understood by this word, ordinary people take the meaning of learning from astrology.

The planets and stars have different types of colors, so the rays emanating from them also have different effects.   Earth-based astrology refers to the study in which the auspicious and inauspicious effects of planets and stars are studied on humans and the Earth.

Primarily according to Indian astrology there are 12 zodiac signs inside astrology, all zodiac signs have different effects. All zodiac signs belong to different elements. The 4 elements of the zodiac signs are stated.  These are: • Agni • Water • Earth • Air The #zodiac #signs of fire are - Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius. The zodiac signs of water are - Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces. The zodiac signs of Earth are - Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn. The signs of air element are - Aquarius, Libra, and Gemini.

We will suffer the least amount of fire and water.  Understand how and what is this #science  ✓ #Corona_Virus First of all, let me tell you how a person gets sick? When our mind starts to believe that we are sick when the mind gives the message that we are sick, Then the mind, which is our headquarter, gives a message to the body that we are sick, so first we become mentally weak and along with it we send a message to the millions of cells of our body that we are sick. Ex: It becomes exactly like a losing army. That is, the mind works as a king inside our body and the millions of cells inside the bodywork as a soldier and when the king loses, then all these (soldiers) of the body lay down their weapons, so humans are ill.  , Until your brain believes it. This is also what medical science, Ayurveda and Vedic culture say that if your mind loses, your body loses too. It says - one who is strong in mind is less ill.

What are the symptoms of the corona -

Symptoms -- • #headache • #cold cough • #eye irritation • difficulty in breathing and #subsequent_pneumonia • Thereafter to #kidney_failure.

If we look at it from #astrology, it is all the symptoms due to #Jupiter getting spoiled and the bad one which #Rahu_spoils. If we see how a bad Rahu is born - it is produced when Mars and Mercury are combined, then a very bad Rahul is born.

First of all, whoever suspects that he has or may have coronavirus 1. In such a state, do not forget to use fennel (green) because the firm thing of Mars and Mercury is fennel. 2. Rahu, Mercury, and Venus spoil Jupiter.  A lot of people have spread the camphor in the house too young. It is absolutely wrong because camphor is Venus and is also an enemy of Jupiter. 3. Do not use cardamom at this time also, because cardamom is a complete symbol of Mercury and intelligence - Jupiter is a very strong enemy, so do not use cardamom and basil at this time because it works perfectly inside this virus.  Not to do it will probably give it a further boost. Keeping astrology in mind, it is a matter of what not to do, but now it is a matter of what we have to do, first of all, we have to be mentally strong. • Ketu: When Rahu is bad within astrology, what should be done if Ketu remedy is considered very important?  On this earth, the object of auspicious Ketu is considered to be black, which is black lentils. They are a mixed object of Venus and Saturn. Whenever Venus and Saturn meet, higher Ketu is formed, then within these days make a choice of black lentil lentils.  One must eat once a day, so Ketu will remain high and immunity will remain in the body. And that does not mean that the #coronavirus can show its effect because the higher Ketu kills Rahu from there. The #coronavirus is also Rahu. • Jupiter: to make Jupiter good.  To make Jupiter good, add turmeric in whatever cooked food you eat during the day. Those who are small children must drink one fourth (tsp) of turmeric by dissolving it in water, or by dissolving it inside their milk. Those who are older children, from the age of 17 years, should consume one teaspoon of turmeric every day, by opening it underwater or mixing it with milk, it will strengthen your Jupiter as well and your immune system will also be strong. • Mars: Those who can eat honey, then they should take one spoon of honey every morning and evening because Mars is a friend of Jupiter, if Jupiter is spoiled too, Mars does good by supporting him. Along with this, we should keep our house holy. To keep the house holy we should use the things of Jupiter. like: 1. Cow dung cake 2. Place a little desi section on it 3. Add half a teaspoon of ghee 4. Keep a little turmeric as well And burn them all.  After that give her fumigation all over your house because Desi Khand is Mars, Ghee is Chandra and Turmeric is Jupiter.  Wherever there will be a mixture of these three, how can Rahu go there - no #coronavirus can enter. • At the same time, we also need protection.  

There is a lot of space where even sanitizers are not available, then what to do there? Go to any panwadi shop.  Buy tobacco from there, take tobacco that people eat by mixing it with lime. You can boil a small piece of turmeric and two spoons of turmeric in 2 liters of water. After that, whoever comes into the house, first wash his hands with that water.  Similarly, when someone goes out of the house, apply this water on his hands and put it on his face as well.  Apart from this, the government has said to keep the protection, consider all the things like putting a mask on the mouth, etc. • Add 3-5 liters of water inside the hookah water and mix four to five teaspoons of turmeric in it, sprinkle it in your house outside your house and inside the street as far as you can, it will also cause coronavirus to run.  Because it is a mixed object of Saturn and Jupiter, beyond which Rahu does not stand. These things will help you to get recover and give protection against this kind of viruses with the help of #Vedic_astrology

💐 #Pradhuman #India_youngest #astrologer and #Vastu_specialist & #motivator_speaker

update link

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/coronavirus-news-live-updates-death-toll-march-9/liveblog/74545182.cms

https://www.firstpost.com/health/coronavirus-outbreak-no-need-to-panic-all-measures-taken-assures-assam-govt-as-us-tourist-tests-positive-in-bhutan-after-visiting-state-8129331.html

http://pradhumansuri.blogspot.com/2017/05/astrologymahakumbh-2017-dehradun-india.html

[jhcseokk]

Cursed Kisses

Harry thinks Draco’s lips are cursed. I mean, why else would he snog him senseless?

You can read it on AO3 too! https://archiveofourown.org/works/18308471/chapters/43336280 

Oh, this is for @tepre I’m sorry, it took so long but I hope you like it!

Friday nights at the Three Broomsticks with his friends were the only thing that kept Harry Potter sane. A night out with his friends while drinking excessive amounts of beer meant less time cooped up in the 8th year common room. While the fireplace and couches proved comfortable with frequent homework sessions, it often became suffocating with the mass amount of students that loitered and talked loudly after classes or during study hall. The Three Broomsticks had a comfortable atmosphere with an old bartender that managed to strike up a conversation as easily as it was for Harry to cast expelliarmus.

One thing Harry noticed recently, however, was the constant staring he received by a certain boy with blond hair. His grey eyes would pierce right through him and cause goosebumps to raise on his arms and on the back of his neck. Draco Malfoy made it obvious when he was staring, his entire body turned to him. Such as now, his gaze piercing right over Hermione’s shoulder as he sat with his legs crossed and his entire body turned to Harry. One hand was resting on his skinny jean clad thigh while the other held a small glass of what was supposedly hard liqueur.

Harry took another sip of beer from his emptying glass and sighed, his shoulders slumping and his chest bumping into the edge of the table the golden trio sat at. Ron and Hermione sat close together, taking sips of their drinks and talking of their latest homework assignment. Harry’s eyesight wavered and the room spun momentarily.

“You alright Harry?” Hermione set her glass of red wine on the table and moved her attention from her boyfriend to Harry in front of her.

He glanced behind Hermione’s shoulder to look at Draco who still sat there, posture stiff and his eyes trained on the curly haired boy across the room.

“Yeah... I think,” Harry slurred a bit, his hand moving to rub his eyes, “I think I’ve had too much to drink.”

Hermione’s lips quirked upwards into a smirk . “You’ve only had two pints of beer Harry.” Ron took another swig of his beer before setting the empty glass on the table, running his finger across the thin rim of the cup in what is presumably boredom.

“Well it’s either that or Malfoy over there,” Harry tilted his head towards the lonesome boy sitting at the bar sipping his drink, “has a staring problem with yours truly,” he rocked his glassware on it’s bottom, the clanging drowned out by the loud crowd behind the couple in front of him.

“Malfoy?” Ron tossed a look over his shoulder, “what is he doing? Planning something again?”

Hermione took a quick glance over her shoulder and snickered, “he’s planning something alright,” she turned back to Harry with devilish look, “planning to shove his dick up your arse.” She finished off her glass of wine and poured herself more from the bottle that sat on the table.

Harry choked on his own spit.

“Mione!” Ron’s jaw dropped.

“You know what,” Harry jumped upwards suddenly, knocking the table forward, Hermione managing to save the half full bottle of red wine that threatened to fall off the table, “I’m getting another beer.” He stepped out of the booth and swayed momentarily, catching Ron’s eye.

“Mate, didn’t you just say you were drunk?” He rolled his eyes and pushed his empty beer glass towards the swaying boy, “get me one too.” Hermione grabbed a menu and glanced over it momentarily, “and get a plate of chips, please.”

Harry glared and grabbed the empty glasses, “honestly, I’d do anything to get away from ‘Mione after that comment.” She chuckled and set the menu down.

“I can’t help but state the truth. Besides, you’re incredibly oblivious to everything around you, so what’s pointing out some vital information going to do?”

“It’ll kill me that’s what it will do.” Harry replied smartly before stumbling off towards the bar, ignoring the couple’s incessant snickering behind him. He continued to walk up to the bar, not noticing Draco’s hard stare, but feeling it. Dark grey eyes burned into the side of Harry’s honey tanned face as he leant against the bar. He shifted uncomfortably, his eyes avoiding to meet Draco’s. Both boys were the farthest they could be by occupying the same bar. Harry rubbed the side of his face, the skin smooth across the palm of his hand.

Draco on the other side of the bar didn’t stop staring, Harry’s every movement registering in his mind. The way Harry’s curls bounced when he moved his head towards the bartender, the way his long eyelashes brushed against the top of his cheeks when he blinked, the enticing way the corners of his lips upturned naturally when he spoke as if smiling every time he conversed. Good lord, don’t get him started on those bright green eyes. Harry Potter was every gay man’s wet dream except more to Draco. Harry was a hot mess with emphasis on both the hot and mess. (Although Draco would rather put even more prominence on hot.) One aspect of the Desi boy that always seemed to drive Draco crazy was the lighter toned scar that ran from the top of his forehead to the crackling, jagged marks of a lightning-like scar running through his bright green eyes to the top of his right cheek.

“Fuck…” Draco took another sip of his bourbon and watched as Harry’s jaw clenched. By the clenched facial features it was obvious he was getting angry and Draco knew just the remedy. He tossed back his drink and as swift as a swan, he uncrossed his legs and slid off the stool. This time, hearing the clicking of heels, it was Harry’s turn to stare. The bartender who was previously talking to him left to get more drinks, giving Draco leeway to do what he’s been aching to do for at least 2 years.

“Malfoy what are you doi–”

Long pale fingers clasped around Harry’s face and pulled him close, their faces only inches apart. Harry’s breathing was quick and raspy, Draco however was more controlled, the scent of bourbon lingering on his lips, driving Harry crazy with drunk-induced lust and confusion.

With a quick smirk beforehand, Draco moved forward and pressed his lips against Harry’s, his eyes fluttering shut. There was a dry warmth that spread across both boys lips until Draco leaned in more, and Harry at that point stopped breathing altogether. He didn’t pull away, but instead moved more into the kiss, one hand resting on the bar stool behind him and the other resting on Draco’s hip. He too kissed back moving his lips in correspondence with Draco’s. Both boys were so caught up in the moment that the obscene amount of stares on them went unnoticed.

Harry’s pulse thudded when Draco’s hand moved to his chest, no doubt in his mind that he could feel his heartbeat. Both boys pressed closer together, Harry’s hand moving up Draco’s side to grace his side with a gentle squeeze. In turn his face flushed when Draco finished the open mouthed kiss with a tiny lick of Harry’s lower lip.

Almost immediately he craved more, leaning in as Draco pulled away. The blond’s lip quirked upwards at the obvious craving and shoved Harry away with the hand that was once resting on his chest. Harry stumbled back into the bar seat behind him, his lust induced daze broken. Draco gave the honey boy an unreadable glance before sauntering out of the Three Broomsticks with a sway in his hips. Harry stood there frozen, his jaw dropped and beer forgotten.

“What the fuck?”

-

“Hermione, Malfoy’s lips are cursed!” Harry ran through the empty schoolyard, out of breath and his scarf blowing out behind him. The cool Autumn air nipped at his bare cheeks and managed to squeeze through the knits of his Weasley sweater, “Hermione please help, I need your input.” He slowed down to a walk before keeling over in front of the couple who sat reading a book under a tree.

Hermione tutted and slammed her book shut, “why on earth would his lips be cursed?” Her lips pursed, “I thought your obsession with Malfoy ended years ago?”

“Was it his cursed lips that made you forget my beer and just leave?” Ron cut in with a scoff before Harry could reply. He tugged on his sweatshirt, “yeah, I’m still angry about that by the way, mate.”

Harry didn’t have anything to say in reply, only a quiet grunt.

“Well?” Hermione urged, “so how did you come to the conclusion that his lips are cursed?”

At the mention immediately Harry spoke out, “well how the hell else do you explain the fact he snogged me senseless?” Hermione was speechless, “we’ve been sworn enemies since first year!”

“Really Harry,” she deadpanned, “honestly Harry, how thick headed are you?” She dropped her textbook on the ground with a thud. Ron held back a laugh behind his hand, “good lord, Harry. There has to be something that would give you a clue over how Malfoy feels. Even I’ve seen the evidence in front of my damn eyes.”

“And Rons as thick as they get.”

“Hey,” he practically hissed at Hermione.

“Are you saying that you’re oblivious to the fact that Draco likes you?” Hermione sighed and leaned back a fraction, tucking a strand of curled black hair behind her ear.

“He likes me?!” Harry’s jaw dropped and he spun around, his hands running through his hair as he stared out towards the great lake. “Oh my god what do I do?”

Ron laughed loudly, disrupting a group of students eating sandwiches on the other side of the courtyard, their glares boring into the red head, “what the hell does he see in you?”

Hermione slumped forward on the bench, running a hand down her face, “oh my god… Why am I friends with idiots?”

The next week, Harry ran through the halls of Hogwarts late to Herbology with the Hufflepuffs. “Oh shit, I’m so late. God, Hermione’s gonna kill me,” he huffed out. His shoulder bag bounced on the side of his hip and the papers in his hands were gripped tightly. He rounded multiple corners his trainers slapping against the marble floors. With one final corner he slammed dead into a pile of books and a body.

Harry’s papers flew as did the other person’s books. Both of them fell back onto the ground from the force. “God dammit Potter, one would think those glasses would at least help you see where you’re going. Obviously they’re as shite as they look.” The familiar voice of Harry’s “nemesis” barked out.

Harry’s glasses were in fact crooked on his nose. He adjusted them quickly, his eyesight clearing as he looked over at Draco with his dress shirt untucked and his hair ruffled to messy perfection. “Maybe it wouldn’t hurt for you to also pay attention to where you’re going.”

“I’m sorry,” Harry quipped out quickly, “I wasn’t aware people didn’t have classes on Monday afternoons.” It went deathly silent, the large empty corridors of Hogwarts only magnifying the silence. Both boys sat on the ground surrounded by scattered papers and textbooks.

“Was that a diss or a compliment on my knowledge?”

“I mean…” Harry realise his mistake and looked from the marble floor to the cracked ornate ceiling, glancing everywhere but at the boy in front of him.

Malfoy sat with his legs spread in front of him, his attention fully on the Indian boy who’s discomfort was achingly obvious. The blond moved closer, covering up his true intentions by picking up his heavy textbooks. His mind was once on studying but now it was on something entirely different. Harry began to do the same, his mind entirely focused on getting to class as quickly as possible, his loose homework gathered together in his left hand.

“Potter.”

“Malfoy,” Harry replied with a snarl as instinct before looking up and finding that the other boy was in close proximity. In almost immediate reaction, the wind was knocked from his lungs and the snarl dropped in expectation. His face flushed red and he was hyperware of every movement made by the pale boy in front of him. His palms began to sweat and the paper that were gripped in his hand crumpled from the clenching of his fist.

Harry took note of the glistening of Draco’s grey eyes and his hard stare that mirrored his. His mind completely blanked before he mustered the Gryffindor courage to close the gap between them both, right in the middle of the school corridor. Draco’s hand rested on Harry’s thigh while he used his other hand as leverage to kneel over his body. A slow moan erupted from Harry’s throat as the other boy took control of the sensual kiss. Their hands roamed and their mouths clashed. Harry was becoming more and more focused on Draco’s lips on his.

His heart pounded and his fingers clenched the expensive feeling fabric that framed Draco’s lean body, and everything in him screamed to keep the snarky boy closer. With that, he pulled him closer, one hand snaking to the nape of Draco’s neck, his fingers tangling into the soft blond strands at the base of his spine. With a light tug Draco responded with a squeeze of Harry’s thigh, and god if that didn’t make Harry respond more to the kiss on mere whim.

Draco opened his mouth partially and slipped his tongue carefully into the kiss, adrenaline pumping through his veins at the prospect of more. He slipped an ice cold hand up Harry’s wrinkled dress shirt, coming into contact with a soft warm stomach. Running a hand across Harry’s stomach and letting the soft curls of hair tickle the pads of his fingers made Draco silently crave more skin to skin contact.

The pale blond was practically looming over Harry, his lips pressing and kissing Harry’s ever so gently, with tender passion pouring into every movement he made until all at once with a rough shove, Draco was pushed away from the other with a force that was strong however much softer than how they usually knocked each other around with.

Harry leant back on his right elbow, the other arm covering his lips. Harry lowered his arm with a grumble and avoided eye contact. “Are you…” He paused, licking his already swollen and reddened lips that imitated the flush on his usually tanned skin, “are your lips cursed?”

That was the last thing Draco expected to hear from the boy across from him. “I-I’m sorry?” His jaw dropped, “are my… My lips cursed?” He stuttered out. He frowned and gathered his books quickly and ungracefully scrambled to his feet. “Are you fucking with me?” He began to hyperventilate in both anger and embarrassment, his pale cheeks flushing a bright pink by the second. “Insufferable git,” he gritted out before stopping in front of Harry with his books piled high in his hands.

“I can’t believe you! If my lips were cursed I wouldn’t have spent each aching second in the Three Broomsticks mustering up the courage to even move towards you! Of course they’re not you pillock!” Draco spun around and stormed off, practically running away from the clueless boy.

Harry sat up from off of the cold hard floor and watched as Draco rounded a corner down the corridor and disappeared. His heart throbbed at the loss of the other boy and he sighed, dropping his head into his hands. He managed to pull himself together and gathered up his overflowing shoulder bag and crumpled papers off the floor with lonesome struggle. Instead of following up his earlier plans to go to Herbology, he moved to walk up to the 8th year common room and did so with dragging feet.

“What the hell do I do now?”

[katiecomma]

Desi

Ok... please don’t hate me. Cause I’m probably about to have some unpopular opinions. But she seems to be the major thing everyone’s talking about in regards to the latest episode... so I’mma just jump right in.

I didn’t like the intro. It reads way too much sexual tension for me... and even though she’s tough and badass... I have issues with female characters being introduced as love interests or to drive sexual tension. So there was that... the whole thing with Mac in the towel... was not my favourite scene ever. Despite... you know... Mac in a towel.

I like her image. I’m glad she’s very much: badass tattoos everywhere, natural look for makeup/hair... combat boots and practical clothes. I am down. I maybe even have a teensy crush on her at this moment... cause those are a lot of the things I also crush on Riley over.

I like the backstory and connection to Jack ALTHOUGH I will say that if she owes Jack that big it doesn’t make sense that Mac wouldn’t know about her already. Especially since Jack is such a talker... it just seems like someone he would have mentioned before... especially because, based on her dialogue throughout the episode... they seem to have stayed in touch a bit... ALTHOUGH... I will say that at the beginning of this season Mac had never really heard of the Delta team either... so maybe Jack is just good at keeping his mouth shut when it comes to people he’s worked covert with in the past... so he doesn’t spill any beans... so maybe I just talked myself outta that one... ANYWAY! I liked that connection, and the fact that she won’t tell anyone why she owes him. It adds intrigue to her character. And keeps our connection to Jack, which I love. He was mentioned a lot in this episode because of that... and I was really glad they didn’t just try to pretend he was gone forever and we’re never going to talk about him again.

I thought the question of her devotion thing with Riley... where she went off mission in Afghanistan was unnecessary and didn’t really add anything... honestly... if Jack can trust her and has put her forward to watch over Mac’s life... I think we were all on board that she was a good trustworthy person. Am I right? So that just felt like... reaching for drama.

“I don’t like to use guns either.” WE DO NOT NEED ANOTHER PERSON WHO DOESN’T LIKE TO USE GUNS!!! ESPECIALLY BECAUSE SHE’S SUPPOSED TO BE THEIR GUN PERSON!!! We already have Mac, and although Riley and Bozer can use guns... it’s not their weapon of choice either really... so... now we seem to have an ENTIRE team of special ops people that don’t really use guns... WE DID NOT NEED HER TO ASSOCIATE WITH MAC ON THAT SCORE!!! ESPECIALLY SINCE IT’S SUPPOSED TO BE HER JOB!!!! Since she is so decorated and has been on so many special ops teams... I would have much preferred an intelligence connection between her and Mac... something that takes her from being more than just a sledgehammer and that they can connect on.

I liked that she didn’t stay at the fire at the end of the episode. That was, honestly, my one moment where I was like: Ok, I think I’m starting to get a handle on her. And I LOVE the attitude of: too many people I know die, and if they’re just coworkers and not friends, it’s easier... thing made SOOOO MUCH SENSE TO ME. Because in all of the shows where we have characters like this they always surround themselves with team as family and become so close that when someone gets hurts or dies it’s brutal... so it’s nice to see a character who has the other mentality about it. And I’m cool with her being converted throughout the season once she gets sucked into the Phoenix family. Once again... the only thing I didn’t like about that scene was the sexual tension they added in... and I’m like: NO! DO NOT GO THERE! PLEASE!!! I want her to be her own person... not a love interest.

Other than that... my only issue with Desi is that her character feels like a mess right now. Like the writers have NO idea who they want her to be or what they want her to be... and I think the actress was also confused... she just feels like an unfinished character... that’s hollow... Like... there was nothing in that first episode to get me to really care about her... Like... at all... or even really like her. But that may be me being put off by the sexual tension stuff that was added in... I’m just wary about her right now...

I think she has SUCH HUGE POTENTIAL... but I think Desi is a great personification of this season so far: we’re bumbling in the dark with no plan and have no idea what we want to do in the future so we’re trying to leave too many doors open which just makes things feel vague and unfinished.

[jayshreefashoin]

Latest Trending Design for Salwar Kameez

The latest trends are constantly evolving. Although the Indian fashion industry is dynamic and forever changing, people will never replace their fashionable ethnic wear. Regardless of how much we enjoy wearing and exhibiting western apparel, we always have a soft spot in our hearts for ethnic Indian attire. 

Due to its ageless appeal, feminine charm, gorgeous hues, and the comfort of ethnic wear, women of all ages now enjoy wearing these ethnic costumes to various events. They don't simply reserve them for weddings and ceremonies. For its flair, grace, and beauty, all of us have long revered the Salwar Kameez.

Kaftan salwar kameez suit

Kaftans have become popular in 2022. Almost everyone now has a place for the magnificent kaftan in their wardrobe. This shalwar kameez design has taken the top spot in traditional everyday wear attire, whether a maxi dress, loungewear, vacation wear, party wear or elegant desi salwar suit. 

You can wear a kaftan in many ways. It won't let you down if you wear it with readymade churidar, cigarette pants, palazzos, jeans, or if you purchase a set by itself!

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Uninterested in the typical designer salwar suits? Are you interested in trying something novel and new? Then, this piece will make heads turn. Own this contemporary ethnic salwar kurta that will make you appear like a million dollars instead of the traditional white salwar suits. The people watching will be speechless!

Crop top and palazzo Salwar Kameez 

One of the most straightforward salwar kameez styles to ever appear on the runway, you can also get through salwar suit online shopping! You may easily transform your appearance by adding a crop top with lovely designs and themes and toning it out with big flared plain palazzos.

Cape Style Salwar kameez Suit   

You need a cape as soon as possible because you are a superhero like everyone else! So change the traditional dupatta on your shalwar kameez women to a cape. However, suppose you want to wear the salwar suit for women with a contemporary twist. In that case, this look is ideal, and you can get it through salwar kameez online tailoring services.

Play with the cape's fabric and pattern, from sheer to ornately embroidered. You may also play about with the length; a cape that reaches the elbow has a particularly chic appearance. The most incredible thing about this salwar kameez style is that your dupatta won't slide about. Wear it for a cocktail party or wedding reception.

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Churidars are always a good choice. You can select from pastel or brilliant colours, designs, prints, and embroideries, depending on whether you desire an ethnic or opulent aesthetic. Like the tiny pants, the cinched salwar goes with just about everything.

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Longline kurtas are similar to maxi dresses in style but stand out due to the unique fabric at the end that is sheer enough to see the salwar you are wearing. 

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Chikankari thread work Kurtis and salwar kameez outfits are very popular in Lucknow In 2022. There are numerous ways to style these timeless kurtas. You can accessorise them for every occasion, from day to night, casual to more dressy, and you'll be all set.

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Perfect for showing off your incredibly fashionable bottoms. These kurtas are helpful when you want to look trim and thin while showcasing what you're wearing below the kurta and your stylishly high heels.

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This short frock-style halter-neck kurta and dhoti ensemble is the pinnacle of upscale Indian clothing. These come in a variety of variations. For Navratri, ones with more colour and print are appropriate. Frock-style kurtas will be helpful when you rock the Garba and dandiya raas look!

Front Slit Salwar Kameez Suit

You may add a dash of sparkle to your black salwar suit pattern by putting a high slit in the front. You can use this pattern to create both straight and flared kurtas. Make a small cut on one side. You'll look gorgeous if you pair it with churidar or cigarette pants!

A High-Low Anarkali Salwar Kameez Suit

Although we adore lovely Anarkali salwar suits, the asymmetrical Anarkali is a distinctive design we've been watching! For a more opulent and modern appearance, make the front seam of the Anarkali somewhat higher than the back seam. This attire is ideal for a wedding you're attending because you can adorn the hem of the churidar with embroidery or thread work.

Sherwani Style Salwar Kameez Suit

Whoever said that guys should only wear sherwanis, you too can wear these shalwar kameez men! Even for ladies, this traditional kurta design looks fantastic. For a flawlessly timeless style, accessorise your high-neck bandhgala sherwani with bold earrings and cigarette slacks!

You'll look stunning in any of these ensembles, which will spruce up your wardrobe (and there are plenty more to select from). Visit the CloudTailor app to purchase salwar suits online. While these are our suggestions, you must dress in clothing that you feel secure and happy about. No outfit without your confidence can make you appear flawless.

[papermoonloveslucy]

EQUAL PARTS TALENT & HARD WORK

December 26, 1965

Below is a verbatim reprint an article by Edgar Penton based on his interview with Lucille Ball. Bolded and italicized text indicates quotes from Ball.  The publication may vary by newspaper.  The above illustration was by Robert Thompson. 

During a recent discussion between a television producer and a network program executive on the problem of casting a top role for a big television variety special, the latter remarked, "If we could just get somebody like Lucille Ball we'd be in clover." 

The producer mulled that statement over for all of one second and said, "There is only one Lucille Ball, and if you can't get Lucy there's no such thing as somebody like her." 

That statement comes pretty close to a capsule explanation of Miss Ball's unparalleled success as a star in all phases of the entertainment business. 

Of course, Lucy's career can't be embraced with a single anecdote, but it serves to underscore the fact that there really IS only one Lucille Ball. 

From that landmark evening, Oct. 15, 1951, when CBS launched a new comedy series called "I Love Lucy," to the present, Lucille Ball has never left the hearts and screens of the nation's television viewers. 

The vivacious and irrepressible comedienne enjoys the distinction of being the only star to score twice in a hit television series her latest, of course, the current “The Lucy Show” still on CBS, Monday evenings. 

To evaluate the success of a Lucille Ball, however, a person must go beyond the popularity of a television show. Let's take a look at Lucy, herself, and then perhaps we can understand something about the talent that creates so many memorable moments of entertainment. 

Lucy (hardly anyone calls her Lucille, except her mother) candidly attributes her success to hard work. As a matter of fact, that's the advice she gives to all newcomers who ask her how to make the grade -in show business. 

"I know it sounds rather easy and simple to tell an eager youngster to get out and work hard," Lucy explains, "and they get a lot of advice like that from parents. But show business is no different than any other business.” 

"If you want to reach the top, you've got to start somewhere near the bottom. Learn to be a good listener and remember what you learn.” 

"Of course, luck sometimes plays a part in everyone's career, but you can't rely on it. Even if fortune did place you in an advantageous position would you be prepared to deliver? I like busy people who know their capabilities and utilize them at the proper time.”

"It may only be part of the overall goal, but there's nothing wrong in having a series of goals, and realizing one at a time.”

"It's great for the confidence, and will win you respect and recognition at a time when you least expect it." 

Miss Ball says she considers it necessary for an aspiring performer to be able to communicate with others, exchange ideas and philosophies, develop a sense of values, and not to expect what you don't deserve.

"When I was a youngster my family taught me that you get out of life what you put into it," Lucy says. 

"By the time a lot of people learn the soundness of that philosophy, they find it's too late to retreat to a sensible position, and spend much of their lives trying to overcome ill - conceived notions about what life owes them.” 

"Faith in yourself and your ambitions doesn't necessarily mean you have to put aside all the graces in your race for success. Yet I say you can afford to be a little selfish as you progress.”

"But I don't mean 'selfish' in a negative sense. For example, be selfish about your time. Don't waste it. Don’t let a party or a good time dilute your effectiveness on the job. Don't try to do too many things to the point of not being able to do a few things well." 

Lucy says that during her early years she felt a great insecurity about her own ambitions. She thought her personality was flat, that she had no poise; after losing half-a-dozen jobs . she was just about ready to give up show business. 

"I felt down, but not quite out," Lucy recalls. "Even when a New York drama coach told me but kindly ; that I was not cut out for the entertainment world, something within me wouldn't quit. I took other jobs, in, around and near the theater.”

"I finally got a job as a model. I wasn't acting or performing in a true sense, but I gained confidence and I haven't stopped working since." 

Few would argue the point that Lucy is one of the hardest working gals in show business, but it should also be recalled that the spirited redhead from Jamestown, N.Y. brought a little item into the entertainment marketplace called talent. 

Over the years she has managed to shape her endowments into what today is regarded as one of the great comedic talents of our time.

Her ability to grasp a situation or scene and transform it into riotous fun is one of the many reasons why her appearance is sheer joy to watch. And she has also developed a remarkable ability to do startling, realistic impressions of other personalities. 

Tribute to Lucy's rare and wonderful versatility as a comedienne comes from every writer who has had the opportunity to pen a scene or create a characterization for any of Miss Ball's adventures before the cameras. 

Her long-time writers on “I Love Lucy,” Bob Carroll Jr., and Madelyn Martin, Bob Schiller and Bob Weiskopf, who came back to launch Lucy's return to television on “The Lucy Show,” admit they create some almost impossible situations for Lucy. 

But they have never been able to stump the adept Miss Ball, who didn't mind one bit swinging from a chandelier, going up with a balloon or flying like Peter Pan.

Milt Josefsberg, principal writer on the current Lucy Show, says that he no longer has misgivings about whether Lucy is capable of meeting demands of certain scripts. 

"Since I've been on the show, Lucy has wrestled a bear, played with a porpoise and single-handedly wrecked an entire motion picture set. Yet when she is earthbound, she's peerless when it comes to timing and delivery.” 

Today, Miss Ball is the president of Desilu Productions, largest television film producing facility in the world. She is the mother of two talented youngsters (Lucie, 14, and Desi Jr., 12, children of her marriage to Desi Arnaz), and the wife of comedian Gary Morton (they just celebrated their fourth anniversary). 

She just completed a season of radio on CBS (”Let's Talk to Lucy”), took time out to star in two one-hour television specials, completed a year as national chairman of the Easter Seal Campaign, and is talking about plans for next year.

Like Lucy said, it takes hard work. 

Although the text of the article was basically the same in all newspapers (sometimes edited for length), syndicated columns would often feature different headlines, photos and other enhancements.  This is the headline and photo collage of the same Edgar Penton article in another newspaper. 

On the same date, Chicago television editor Larry Walters retired after 36 years and counted Lucille Ball as one of his most memorable performers. 

On December 26, 1965, the Miami News reported that Vivian Vance was returning to the Coconut Grove Playhouse to perform in the Neil Simon play Barefoot in the Park. In August 1965, co-star Darryl Hickman and Vance had appeared on the TV game show “Call My Bluff” together. 

The day after these articles hit newspapers, a new episode of “The Lucy Show” premiered titled “Lucy Discovers Wayne Newton” (TLS S4;E14).   

[sunburntgypsy]

Missoula

It’s 3 AM on Thursday. I haven’t slept enough, or at all. But there’s this energy inside of me, it’s a mix of anxiety and excitement. I’ve been back from backpacking for a while, and I’ve been working pretty hard for the last few weeks. But, there’s been this restlessness, this itch to get away, from my friends, from my family, from the responsibilities. But get away where? I need newness, somewhere that’s different, somewhere outside my comfort zone. So, I pull out the map and start looking at cities east of Seattle, with the goal being to find the next big city (or town) and start traveling my way east. I see Missoula, MT. OK, I don’t know much. Let’s do it. And that’s why I haven’t slept. It’s the rush of somewhere new, but at the same time, the anxiety of dealing with the unexpected, the unpredictable.

I won’t bore with the details of how I got here, but I’m here, in front of my hostel. Wait, one detail. The first person from Montana who I meet is Hundley. She’s 75 going on 28, coming back from a solo excursion from Mexico. She’s my co-passenger on our journey from Seattle to Missoula, and she loves me, advises me, and hugs me and wishes me good luck. She’s spunky, full of stories, and just radiates good vibes. I’m going to find her on Facebook and connect. People like her fill my life with contagious love, unconditional love, positive love.

This is my home for the next day or two, we’ll see. My latest obsession while traveling has been hostels. There’s just so much…life. It’s a constant flux of people going in and out, and with them, constant flux of different expressions, emotions, perspectives, food, culture, and life. Each hostel I’ve stayed in has been a good metaphor for its people, community, and culture. I’m hoping this one is the same.

I enter the place. Chris, the owner/manager/employee/guest welcomes me, with such an utmost smile and warmth. I needed that too, as anything but warmth would’ve frozen me right there in the Montana cold. He gives me a hug, a warm blanket, and shows me my bed, and gives me a rundown of the place. It looks like it’ll be only me staying that night, and Dennis, who’s been there for the last 6 weeks. He’s from the Netherlands, and he’s here to host the 41st International Wildlife Film Festival. He tells me that he hasn’t found a more stable place, and the people who have come and gone through this place have been interesting, fun, and in some cases, difficult to deal with. Great, the whole gamut. I’m already in!

It’s Friday morning now. Last night, Dennis and I talked about art, politics, sustainability, the rings on his fingers, and life over some Brazilian vegan food. At some point, we must have gone to sleep. I don’t know what I want to do today just yet, this place is so new. I try making coffee for the first time ever using this strange machine, and it doesn’t go well. Chris is up now, and he just laughs at my struggle. It’s his turn to show me the way, and now, we’re just chatting, over this locally sourced coffee that his friends grow right in town. Pretty soon, I realize that this whole hostel is a culmination of some very inspired, artistic, and enthusiastic people who are from this community. The logo of the hostel is based on a cross stitch that his friend made for him, the pictures on the wall, well, they’re just shot by an aspiring photographer who captures people on their bicycles. And the folks who pick you up from the airport are just dudes who owe Chris some beer money, and this is their way of paying him back. The whole thing is so smooth, yet so chaotic. There’s no process in place for any of the stuff, but the whole operation is smooth sailing. And Chris, always full of smile, and armed with topics ready to jumpstart any conversation, is there to guide people through this journey. I tell him about my dreams of having my own hostel one day, and he embraces me like a brother, as if I’m already part of this tribal group. Wow.

It’s time for me to go out and see some of this place. It’s gorgeous, a winter fantasy. I’m bundled up, hiding under two jackets, three shirts, two pairs of socks, and a leather boot, but none of that is enough. I need some food, fast.

This is Market on Front Street, a cafe/organic grocery/performance venue/reprieve from the cold. I get a cup of Americano and a Hot Hippie. Good food, good drink, good music, and good people. I’ve encountered 15 or so people since I’ve been here, and everyone, everyone has been so nice. It’s a different kind of nice. Like, that’s just how the people are; it’s not a face to put on when one goes out to deal with the world; that’s just how they are.

I ate too much. I have to head back to the hostel and get ready. I’m meeting up with an old friend tonight.

I’m back at the hostel. This is my last night here. I’m going to miss it. But, I’ll be back again, I know it.

I’m ready for my friend. She’s going to take me to ALL the bars in Missoula, which is a dangerous proposition. But, I play along. 

She drives a van now. We go to Stockman’s. Everyone knows her, and she knows everyone. This is her favorite place, and it shows. I’m treated to this concoction, which is vodka mixed with basil and lots of sugar. This is just our first drink. Before I know it, we are at our fifth bar, on our seventh and/or ninth drink, catching up. She’s doing well now, with some boy troubles. I meet Dan, who drove eight hours to come to party in Missoula. Dan is 68, and his wife is back home, so he’s having fun. 

I think it’s time to go back. She drives me back, and I run into Dennis, as we both stumble into our quaint temporary home together, both out of our minds, but never out of wit. We drunkenly, over some grilled cheese, decide to drive to Jackson Hole, WY at six in the morning. It’s three right now.

It’s 11 AM on Saturday. I wake up. Dennis is still sleeping, and snoring. Neither of us are going to Jackson Hole, WY today. 

I can make coffee now. Chris wakes up, and I treat him to coffee that I made. It came out strong and bitter, just right. I pack up, hug Dennis and Chris, and head out. There are some new people coming in, and they’re already here. There’s a guy serenading his girl. He has a raw and soulful voice. I want to hike in the mountains today.

I’ve passed so many people to get here. Everyone seems ready for this. I’m not. I have my backpack, my camera, my clothes, and my vanity with me. I’m only wearing a pair of sneakers, some shorts over compression tights, and two jackets. I’m simple and I travel light, but this is impractical. But, I’m here, and I want to do this. I start walking up the M. It’s the iconic hilltop of Missoula, and I want to see how the valley looks from up there.

I don’t make it up. Quarter of a way through, the girl coming down tells me to try walking down, just for fun. I do, and fall on my ass. Going down is harder, more slippery, and full of treachery than going up. I look down from where I am. It’s nice, I really wish I could’ve gone higher. But, it’s OK.

I’ve made it to the base now. I didn’t fall any more, although I would’ve been OK with it.

I’m staying with Cat and Jed, a couple who I met through Couchsurfing, today. This is my first time Couchsurfing. I don’t know what to expect.

I’m here. I knock on the door. Jed opens the door. Kind eyes and a warm smile. He takes me in, shows me around their place, and gets me settled in. I’m lucky enough to get the private room. 

I settle in, and head to the common room. There’s another Couchsurfer there, Verena and she’s from Austria. She’s been in the country for a few months, studying geography. She’s doing a talk at the campus soon, and then, she’ll head back. She’s an experienced Couchsurfer, and I’m not.

Jed and his band the Dodgy Mountain Men are playing at the Top Hat tonight, and we’re all invited. He calls their music Stompgrass. I don’t know what that is…yet.

Jed is rehearsing and doing the final run through as we all chat about where we come from, what we’re doing, where we’re going, etc. I try some of Verena’s roasted tomato chips from Trader Joe’s. They are really good. Jed gets a call from Kacie and her boyfriend. They Couchsurfed the night before, and they’re still in town. We all should go to the distillery, and so, we go.

We’re here, on the same street I was getting drunk last night. Jed parks on the street, and it’s OK. That’s what people do here, and everyone is OK with it. No stress.

Verena, Jed, and I meet Kacie and hers. They’re from Rapid City, SD. They’ve already had a couple of drinks. I sit across from Kacie, and Verena sits across from the guy. Jed separates us from them. We order our drinks. I get Nightburner, it’s fused with tobacco rinse. We start talking, getting comfortable with each other. There are lots of travel stories between the four of them, some good, some horrific, all being great stories to share. Kacie travelled through India, and her train was robbed, so the only guard on the train naturally decided to protect the one lone American girl, who’s the only person in that cabin. The boyfriend, while teaching English, had food poisoning and had to learn to squat poop in Central America. Verena, in Sri Lanka, had interesting experiences all around, traveling by bus, sometimes on train, always on the edge of death. Now, she’s traveling through the States on the Greyhound, and she tells us that it’s a very similar experience to her travels in Sri Lanka. And Jed, who met Cat through Couchsurfing, had a horrible time finding anywhere to stay in South America. And, I’m here, enjoying these wonderful humans and soaking in some parts of their lives.

It’s time for the show. Jed, Kacie, and the rest of the gang is already there. Verena and I, after getting some food, walk over. The music is already happening. Jed is on the stage, strumming along with his group. There’s Cat, cheering on her man. I go up and tell her that I’m here. She introduces me to Desi, her friend, who thinks I look like Nash, another guy who stayed with them through Couchsurfing, and who also must have come to one of Jed’s shows.

The Dodgy Mountain Men are so good. It’s Bluegrass with spunk. Everyone is dancing. Kacie shows me to dance and just groove to the music. I fail and everyone laughs; I do too. I’m feeling the music, the people, the drinks, the town, the love. 

It’s close to 1 AM now. Verena wants to head back, and I accompany her. We talk about her life, her parents, Austria, the politics and the philosophy, her purpose, her wants and needs, and I share some of mine too. I tell her about some good music, and she tells me to listen to The Glitch Mob and IAMX. One day. She has tattoos from Harry Potter. She’s very interesting and easy to talk to. She tells me that in Austrian, Tramp Stamp translates to Butt Antlers. I like it.

We’re home. It’s cold, and we fall asleep. At some time, everyone else gets back. We realize that Kacie and her plus one don’t have a place to go to, so we decide that they’ll Couchsurf with us for one more night. I give the private room to them, they deserve it.

It’s 10 AM on Sunday. Everyone is still asleep. I miss them already. I miss this town already. But now, it’s time. Time to go somewhere else. I’ll be back.

[archerwindsor]

What To Eat In A High Protein Low Carb Diet (India)

What To Eat In A High Protein Low Carb Diet

Low carb and high protein diet have become quite a rage and nowadays everyone seems to be following it and they are seeing the result also. I now see many celebrities endorsing it and some completely shunning it out. For example- Rujuta Diwekar doesn’t endorse it and she encourages people for a balanced diet and including more local food, eating healthy and getting up early and not starting the day with tea, etc, etc. I once read that all her clients have rice in their dinner. I have seen people losing a lot of weight after following her so if her diet plan works for you then this diet is not for you.

The same goes for protein diets. Some of you might find it completely impossible and for some, it might be the best thing. The reason I prefer low carb and high protein diet is because it suits me better. I love all the things which the diet prescribes and the best part there is no portion control. This diet has got me rid of my PCOS, at least it is under control and if I maintain it for long maybe I completely get rid of it forever. So all in all it works for me.

Now the thing is what to eat in a high protein and low carbs diet. You can not have bread, momos, roti/chapati, paratha, suji (semolina), pizzas, burgers, potatoes than what will we eat? …Don’t worry…This is what I also thought when I first considered it but to my surprise, I have so many variations in my food now which I was completely unaware of earlier.

For example – anything buttery in my food was a complete no but now I have 2-3tbsp of butter every day. So my food is high protein but it’s delicious as well.

Also, with high protein diet I do not count my calories so it’s quite a relief. Moreover, this is an expensive diet so you got to keep this thing in mind. Eating different types of nonveg, nuts, cheese is expensive but it won’t be so expensive that the whole of your money is spent on this only.

Coming to the foods allowed:-

Eggs In High Protein Diet:-

 I prefer eating eggs almost every day and I am trying to learn different ways to make them so that it doesn’t get boring. Also, in most high protein diets one is supposed to eat eggs with yolk which is quite an advantage. There is less wastage and eating with yolk is more fulfilling. I have done a few of the recipes here based on eggs. You can check them out here

1 egg equals 6 grams of proteins and they are affordable too. If you can get organic eggs then it is much better. Also, egg dishes are available everywhere. So even if you are holidaying you can always ask for different kinds of egg dishes. I generally order egg curry or omelet when I am out or have egg curry in the meal also with some salad and curd along.

2) Cheese In High Protein Diet:-

I love cheese and add it in my diet in multiple ways. Although some dairy milk products are high in carbs the fermentation process cuts down the carbs from the cheese and makes it suitable for a low carb diet. Parmesan cheese is considered to be the best with 10 gm of protein per ounce. Some of the cheese are best to be avoided such as cream cheese and cottage cheese as they contain just 3 grams or even less protein per ounce .

I add cheese in salads, sprinkle it over grilled chicken, mashed cauliflower and cabbage, and in egg recipe. There are many ways to incorporate it in your meals and of course it is tasty as well.

Nov Veg In High Protein Diet

You can have a wide variety of non-vegetarian foods which include chicken, ground turkey, lamb, salmon, shrimp and tuna, and much other stuff. This should be a major part of your diet. I generally have chicken and fish as I have been vegetarian for a big part of my life and therefore I am still learning in this area.

Few things which I have tried for this diet are butter chicken, grilled chicken, chicken masala, shrimp curry, and fish in coconut recipe which my friend Rashmi taught me and tastes delicious! I am going to share its recipe sometime in the coming days.

Nuts In High Protein Diet:-

Almond, nuts and pistachio are packed with proteins and contain omega -3 fatty acids. I generally have these with milk while going for my workout. Having walnuts adds crunch to your salad. I love having overnight soaked almonds. I powder them and add them to my soups and salads also.

Panner & Tofu

We Indians love to have paneer and somehow no dinner is hosted without having a paneer dish in it. One can have paneer in many many ways.Be it grilled, palak paneer, butter paneer, salads, etc. For tofu, you have to marinate it a bit with soya sauce for 10-15 minutes and then toss it in your choice of sauteed vegetables. I generally have paneer as its easily available but if you can have tofu then it will add variety in your food and its good source of protein as well.

Above foods are the main source of a high protein and low carb diet, at least in India. If you are outside India there are many other good things nowadays available which are high in protein and low in carb content. Remember we need to have good amount of fats also while following the protein diet. Taruna has done a post on why we should have ghee here.

I have 1-2tsp of butter in everything I eat. Be it eggs or any roasted vegetables.It makes me happy as well as all my life I never got to really enjoy butter because of weight issues.

Along with these we can have rajma, chickpeas, full-fat milk and yogurt oh yes! even peanut butter in moderation. Flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, and even  sunflower seeds can also be eaten with this diet. We can also enjoy a hot cup of coffee with full cream but yes without sugar.

Sugar is a complete no in this diet. If you have a sweet tooth then there are chocolates available online which are 70% of chocolate that is still allowed. Somehow I am almost over with my craving for sweets. After following this diet I can easily sit and watch people having icecreams or pastries without thinking I wish I could have it too

Also, I do cheat sometimes and have 2tbsp of rice with one big bowl of Rajma but it doesn’t affect my weight that much. Moreover high protein and low carb diet is a kind of a lifestyle and not a diet plan ..If you leave it you will see getting the weight back so follow it, accepting it as your lifestyle.

Do let me know if you are aware of any other high protein food which can be included in this diet:-

You can also read about GM diet which was followed by Tarun for seven days here 

P.S – I am not a dietitian, whatever I have written in this post is from my personal experience and whatever I have learned from my friends, books and websites which promote this diet.

You might like reading these also:-

How To Build Up Running Stamina

The GM Diet – Does It Really Work?

Home Remedy for Cough | Healthy Sweet Dish

Bipasha Basu’s Weight Loss – From Flab to Abs

PCOS Diet For Indian Women | How To Deal With PCOS

15 Benefits Of Eating Beetroot

Which is the Best Oil for Cooking

My Latest Lifestyle Changes to Lose Weight – Part 2

Why Desi Ghee is Good for Health ?

Bollywood Actresses Who Lost Weight

Aishwarya Rai’s Weight Loss – From Fat To Fit

What To Eat In A High Protein Low Carb Diet (India) published first on https://olimpsportnutritionuk.tumblr.com/

[disneyelite]

A Day at Disney Springs

Today was perfect  for a day at Disney Springs.  Living in the Orlando area, I am about 40 minutes from some of the best shopping, dining and entertainment that Walt Disney World offers outside the parks. With rainy weather on the way this week and pleasant temperatures today it was a good time to get out and get some steps in! I must tell you, I love days like this.  With no particular destination in mind and spending the day "flying Solo", I used my typical plan of action which is to stay to one side until I get to the farthest point from my car and work my way back.  Stopping first for my mocha latte from Starbucks, I meandered through the Pandora, Alex and Ani, Coach and came up to Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop, where I picked up my free chocolate sample of the day and took in the smell of all the yummy treats being made.   Because it was a weekday and into "slow season", it wasn't too crowded, so I was able to snap a few pics at the Lego Store

and my favorite stop, the Marketplace Co-op.   It was here that I played around with creating a customized cellphone case at D-Tech, checked out the latest inspirations for Dapper Days from The Dress Shop at Cherry Tree Lane and checked out all the great artwork at WonderGround Gallery.

After working up an appetite, thanks to a recommendation from my disneyelite.com co-contributor, I decided to work my way toward Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar for a quick bite, as this is one of the restaurants that accepts Tables in Wonderland.   My server, Desi was very helpful offering suggestions for smaller plates and let me know that I had arrived during happy hour, which is from 12pm-3pm Monday through Friday.  I settled on an ice cold beer and Doctor Astorgas's Queso Dip. 

   With fresh torilla chips and a queso topped with house made pico de gallo and cilantro, it was just what the doctor ordered!  It was so flavorful and although it's supposed to serve two and I should've stopped eating long before I did, I couldn't help myself!  When it was time to go, I presented my Tables in Wonderland card for my discount and when she returned, she advised me that since both my choices were included in happy hour, my discount couldn't be applied.  However, because it did actually show that I attempted to use it, it did save me $25 on valet parking at Disney Springs, so I wasn't really that mad.  Besides, with the happy hour prices, I ate and drank and walked out of there for $14.91; which in my experience isn't that bad for a full belly and an adult beverage. After lunch, I decided to go down to where the new Cirque Du Soleil show, Drawn to Life will be opening soon, over to House of Blues and the future home of Beatrix, a new dining destination offering healthful vegan, gluten free and vegetarian selections.  I'm really thinking that another day at Disney Springs will be coming up again and sooner rather than later. I really cannot mention all the places I stopped during my day at Disney Springs, but I hope that this gives you an idea of all there is to see here.  If you haven't been there yet, you really gotta go!  From WDW souveneirs to high end shopping and the ever popular Earl of Sandwich to Morimoto Asia, there's something for every budget here.  Not to mention all the entertainment options, which can be found here, and with Valentine's Day approaching, you can plan a pretty fabulous date night too!       Read the full article

[ethreesixty]

In Islamabad Choose Best Fast Food Restaurants

We all know that being a Pakistani we have a very rich and colorful culture which tie us to each other. We find different things and variety in our culture because we all belong from different provinces which has different history and culture. Our customs shows in vary occasions. Clothes, behavior, events, weddings, food these all are the basic and important parts of our culture. Basically we all are foodie, and the development in food industry people are become more conscious about food. Karachi and Lahore are big cities of Pakistan, and also known the best place for food. But today we will not speak about these two cities. We will discuss here the capital of Pakistan, yes none other than the Islamabad.

The Capital:

As we know that we have a capital which is loaded with a natural beauty, beautiful sceneries it has. A calm and peaceful environment makes Islamabad one of the best city of Pakistan. The beauty is not the only thing about Islamabad, when it comes to its food, Islamabad is launching many fast food restaurants which will help it to be strong. Fortunately, the capital is all set to please your taste and gather you the quality delicious food items. If you want to explore different kind of lip-smacking and mouth-watering food items and restaurants than you are living in a right city right now. We will discuss here best fast food restaurants which will further help you out for choosing.

Cheezious:

Although in Islamabad it is among the new restaurant but Cheezious is not a latest player in town. They are familiar for its permanent taste and hygienic food. Cheezious prices are low but still they have amazing quality food. But still the restaurant is not as much new. It is getting popular day by day by the local fast foodies lover. Their pizza and fried chicken burger are identical in quality and comparable to international chain food. The main reason behind it success that it is affordable. People can easily eat in their fixed budget. This place will save your day, if you are on a budget.

Hardees:

You can make your tummy happy with their entire box of fries full of cheese sauce, jalapenos and white sauce. That’s why no one can beat Hardees when it comes to loaded fries and ice cream sandwiches. Head towards hardy today, if you are glancing for luscious burger. Their 100% new Angus beef burger, cheese and signature sauce will easily melt in your mouth. With every regular meal they offering free drinks refill.

Tayto:

If you are choosy about lovely ambience and yummy food than it can be the best place regarding your requirement. That’s why Tayto is famous for their food along with their environment and courteous staff. They have some specific items like Tayto special chicken entrees, fries, burgers, and flatbread with a glass of margarita for real foodie. Along with all their yummy and particular items their new menu have desi touch chatpata burger, shami anda burger, and last but not the least crispy chicken burger.

Read the full article

[movietvtechgeeks]

Latest story from https://movietvtechgeeks.com/allegations-hits-kevin-spacey-jeremy-pivens-floodgates-open/

More allegations hits Kevin Spacey and Jeremy Pivens as floodgates open

The floodgates have opened as men and women are coming forth with new allegations about both Kevin Spacey and Jeremy Piven. Even Dustin Hoffman has been accused of sexually harassing a 17-year-old, so we know the hits will keep coming steadily. You can imagine that after decades of this going on, we're not even at the tip of the iceberg yet with these claims. Hollywood’s widening sexual harassment crisis brought forth a second actor’s allegation against Kevin Spacey on Tuesday, halted production on his Netflix series “House of Cards” and prompted CBS to check into an actress’ claim she was groped by Jeremy Piven. Mexican actor Robert Cavazos wrote on his Facebook page that he encountered Spacey at the bar of London’s Old Vic Theatre, where Spacey was artistic director, and the actor tried to fondle him against his will. “It was more common for this guy, when he was in the bar of his theater, grabbing whoever caught his attention,” Cavazos wrote. “I didn’t stand for it, but I know some people who were afraid to stop it.” Cavazos declined an interview request. There was no immediate reply to a request for comment from representatives for Spacey, who was artistic director from 2004-15. In a statement Tuesday, the theater expressed “deep dismay” at the allegations and said, “inappropriate behavior by anyone working at The Old Vic is completely unacceptable.” In recent days, Hollywood has reacted swiftly to allegations of sexual harassment and assault: Harvey Weinstein was fired from the company he founded within days after initial reports of sexual harassment were published in The New York Times earlier this month. Weinstein has denied engaging in any non-consensual sexual contact. Dozens of women, including actresses Selma Blair and Rachel McAdams, have alleged that writer and director James Toback sexually harassed or assaulted them. Toback has denied the allegations. On Tuesday, however, the Beverly Hills Police Department said it was investigating both men after receiving “multiple complaints,” although the department did not specify the nature of the complaints. On Monday, Netflix said it would end “House of Cards” after its upcoming sixth and final season, although the streaming network said the decision was made before the BuzzFeed News report on Spacey last weekend. The network has not commented on plans for a Gore Vidal biopic starring Spacey that is currently in production. The pause in production Tuesday shadows the fate of the last season. Also Tuesday, CBS said it is “looking into” a claim by actress and reality star Ariane Bellamar that Emmy-winning “Entourage” star Piven groped her on two occasions. On her Twitter account Monday, Bellamar alleged that one encounter took place in Piven’s trailer on HBO’s “Entourage” set and the other occurred at the Playboy Mansion. Piven, who stars in the new CBS series “Wisdom of the Crowd,” said in a statement that he “unequivocally” denies the “appalling allegations being peddled about me.” “It did not happen. It takes a great deal of courage for victims to come forward with their histories, and my hope is that the allegations about me that didn’t happen, do not detract from stories that should be heard,” he said. In a Monday interview with media outlets, Piven said he was glad people had come forward with allegations against Harvey Weinstein and that he had never been in that situation. HBO, which aired the 2004-11 series, said in a statement that it was unaware of Bellamar’s allegations until they were reported by media. “Everyone at HBO and our productions is aware that zero tolerance for sexual harassment is our policy. Anyone experiencing an unsafe working environment has several avenues for making complaints that we take very seriously,” the channel said. Bellamar’s credits include “Suicide Squad” and “The Hangover Part III” and the reality series “Beverly Hills Nannies.” Netflix’s actions involving “House of Cards” are rare in an industry that puts commerce first. Shows are infrequently derailed by concerns other than their ratings performance, said TV historian and former network executive Tim Brooks. “It usually depends on how popular the show is, not to put too fine a point on it,” Brooks said Tuesday. The widespread tumult has prompted unusual actions, such as Weinstein being booted from industry organizations, and created a climate of uncertainty. But a look back shows that Hollywood has dealt with disruption before, with even beloved shows and actors fighting to keep their balance amid controversy. During the 1950s “red scare,” Brooks said, “I Love Lucy” star Lucille Ball was accused of being a communist sympathizer. The sitcom co-starred her husband, Desi Arnaz, who took action. “Desi came out before a studio taping and said, ’The only thing red about Lucy is her hair, and even that’s not real,’” using humor to effectively defuse the situation, Brooks said. The show’s No. 1 status also helped. Popularity and audience acceptance of a star’s personal issues aided “Mickey Spillane’s Mike Hammer” when lead actor Stacey Keach served six months in jail for a drug-related arrest in England in the mid-1980s. The 1984-85 season was cut short but the series returned in 1986 with Keach aboard and a revised title, “The New Mike Hammer.” It aired until 1987 on CBS. “Grey’s Anatomy” was swamped by controversy in late 2006 when an on-set scuffle broke out between stars Patrick Dempsey and Isaiah Washington over Washington’s use of a gay slur regarding another cast member. After Washington repeated the slur at the 2007 Golden Globes while denying he had used it, ABC rebuked him publicly, as did co-star Katherine Heigl. He was subsequently fired, and the medical drama from TV hitmaker Shonda Rhimes sailed on even as Washington blamed racism for his treatment. Bill Cosby has felt the professional as well as the legal brunt of multiple accusations of decades-old sexual offenses. Three years ago, when multiple women accused Bill Cosby of decades-old sexual offenses, the comedian’s ambitious standup comedy tour was dotted with cancellations, NBC dropped development of a new show with him and Netflix pulled the plug on a stand-up special. An actor’s popularity with his cast mates can determine his fate, Brooks said. “If they like him, if they get along with him, it’s easy enough to say, ‘If I don’t get my career ruined in this, I’ll stick with him,’” he said. How Spacey’s cast mates are reacting to the allegations remains to be seen. Robin Wright, who stars opposite Spacey as his wife, hasn’t commented publicly, but her Twitter feed includes a number of posts backing social issues including female rights and education. Netflix and “House of Cards” producer Media Rights Capital had already decided to end the series at the end of next season, its sixth, but on Tuesday they chose to pause the production, which is filmed in Baltimore, “to give us time to review the current situation and to address any concerns of our cast and crew.” Spacey was not scheduled to work that day. The move comes after actor Anthony Rapp came forward with claims Spacey made inappropriate sexual advances toward him in 1986, when he was 14. Spacey responded by saying he doesn’t remember the alleged encounter but if he acted the way Rapp alleges, “I owe him the sincerest apology for what would have been deeply inappropriate drunken behavior.” He also spoke publicly for the first time about being gay, which draw backlash from some observers as an attempt at deflection. The fallout for Spacey also included the loss of an award he was going to get later this month by The International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. The group says “it will not honor Kevin Spacey with the 2017 International Emmy Founders Award,” which is to honor “an individual who crosses cultural boundaries to touch humanity.” Spacey was to get it at a gala on Nov. 20 in New York City. Past recipients include Rhimes, Steven Spielberg, and J.J. Abrams. A release date for the final “House of Cards” episodes has yet to be announced. Netflix is developing a possible spinoff of the award-winning drama that helped put the streaming service on the TV series map. Earlier Tuesday, British media reported that police have widened their investigation into sexual assault claims against Weinstein. The Independent newspaper, Press Association and Sky News say London’s Metropolitan Police is now investigating allegations against Weinstein by seven women over incidents that reportedly took place from the 1980s to 2015. Weinstein is also being investigated by police in New York and Los Angeles.

Movie TV Tech Geeks News

[technologyinfosec]

Parey Hut Love won't be a frothy entertainer says director during KT cast visit

STANDING OUT FROM the crowd; it is an advertiser's mantra, although when applied to the general public's passions such as food and, in this case, film, sticking your head above the parapet can be fraught with difficulty. Just as when a Dubai restaurant attempts to zhuzh up a tried and tested dish - we can't help but think of the 'ruined' biryani accusations we have received in response to a favourable review of an avant-garde eatery - tampering with a South Asian rom-com often prompts similar outcry. Although not strictly humorous, who can forget the laughable reaction Bollywood's Love Story 2050 (2008) provoked when the film dabbled in a bit of time travel to tell the, well... love story? It is this delicate tightrope walk Pakistani director Asim Raza has hoped to successfully navigate with his latest offering, the 'big fat desi' spectacular, Parey Hut Love, opening in time for Eid Al Adha on August 8. Visiting the Khaleej Times office on Sunday he and cast members: Sheheryar Munawar, Maya Ali, Zara Noor Abbas and Ahmad Ali Butt, were in a more ebullient mood than the movie stars who normally breeze through, perhaps a result of the family atmosphere created on set to which they alluded. Diving into love Despite being only his second feature (Ho Mann Jahaan came out in 2016) Raza's directorial cachet has been curated through 25 years in the business, beginning with commercials before graduating to music videos and TV series. The commitment to making Parey Hut Love a success, however, was immediately clear as the 52-year-old took an assured lead on the questions from the start. A stance supported by his, at all times, adoring actors. "The more traditional looking the film is the more difficult it is to get heard," Raza began when asked about penetrating the saturated rom-com market. "We have tried to add some substance to it. It won't just be a frothy entertainer. It would have layers and values. It would have all the right ingredients. Once you get home you will be carrying something with you." While not explicitly stating what those components could be, principal actor and one of the movie's producers, Munawar, let us in on some of the picture's less than traditional elements. First his character, also called Sheheryar, is a 'commitment-phobe' - totally against love. Then there's the choice of the protagonists' professions. The three friends to which we are primarily introduced: Sheheryar, Arshad (Butt) and Shabbo (Abbas), all co-habit and dream of entering the film industry. "Life is going well before he runs into the beautiful Saniya (Ali). He has to choose between staying a commitment-phobe or fall madly in love," Munawar said. "I'm playing a typical Karachi wannabe director," Butt added, before going on to highlight Arshad's quirkier and almost nefarious traits. "He knows his best friend wants to be an actor, so he's always exploiting his situation. He's always maneuvering him into some odd places. In a way when a new character enters their lives, he's a bit on the defensive. He doesn't want to share his friends. It's all about his insecurity." The female roles may be not as unconventional with Abbas revealing Shabbo is somewhat naïve and, "in love with someone but cannot say it to their face," and Ali drawing on the similarities between herself and Saniya: "It wasn't too difficult for me to play her. Saniya is beautiful and mature," though considering the latter's acting credentials on popular Pakistani television serials and relative newcomer Abbas' raw magnetism even during our brief meeting, the two will no doubt stand out. On the difference in scale between television and film work, Ali said: "In the cinema, things are larger than life and you have to act accordingly. Credit goes to Asim. He always said, 'you have to act like a star'. He was very confident in all of us." Four weddings and a... Written by actor and film author, Imran Aslam, Raza credits the script for inspiring over six locations for scenes in Parey Hut Love including many around Pakistan and items in Istanbul, Turkey. He made clear it is somewhat unfair, however, to draw the comparison between this plot and that of British romantic comedy Four Weddings And A Funeral (1994) as has been reported. "Inspirations had to be taken," Raza said. "A lot of classic films were in Imran's head. This movie has four weddings, so it ended up sounding similar. When you watch the film you realise that is the only similarity. The character arcs are different. The story is very different." One aspect viewers will certainly find distinctive is the number of cameos Parey Hut Love boasts. Mahira Khan, Meera, Fawad Khan and Sonya Jehan are just a few names we can expect to pop up. "Within the same film I got to romance Maya Ali and Mahira Khan and share screen space with Meera. It was both scary and entertaining," Munawar said. "It was very important those small scenes should be done by people who make the most of them. Every sentence in the film should make sense and that's why having big names in small scenes works," Raza added. A leap forward After touching on the issue of how the Pakistan film industry is faring in today's climate, Raza returned to the issue of balance. Just as he has to counter audience expectations with his creative vision, so too financial issues must be taken into account. "It can be a struggle between commercial and substantive cinema," he said. "You are always reminded about the commercial aspect because film is expensive. A lot of investment goes into it. We have such little outlets for our cinema, we are not always able to do our things our way and break even." Our outlook for Parey Hut Love: they have done it their way and will more than recoup their outlay. Asim's take on the Pakistani cinema landscape "There are constant hiccups, but it is pretty steady. We are lucky that every few months a new person comes in and it is their turn. If we keep supporting each other instead of cutting each other down, this is how an industry is created." Which famous actor turned down a part? "Only one," was the answer director Asim Raza gave when asked if anyone had ever declined a role in any of his projects. Such is the filmmaker's draw it was assumed Raza only had to pick up the phone to have actors queuing round the block to appear in his movie. "Humayun Saeed. I asked him to do a small part in this film," he elaborated, eliciting cries of disbelief. A message from Sheheryar "It's a present for Eid. Big thank you to Khaleej Times and Suhail Galadari for always supporting Pakistani cinema." Read the full article

[theincorrigiblemagpie]

Rishton Ka Chakravyuh (Episodes 1-6)- Much Mahabharat Very Family

Aug 7, 2017 to Aug 12, 2017

HELLO! I, indomitable watcher of desi soaps, am cautiously trying out Star Plus’ latest offering: Rishton Ka Chakravyuh after my last 3-episode-long-unnameable-adventure in this neighbourhood. I’d seen the promos floating around and found myself interested despite this really not being my usual fare. For one, the selling point isn’t a romance (shocker!), but also the fact that its milieu isn’t one I particularly enjoy. Nonetheless, I decided to give it a shot and found myself hooked. It’s a week old and I ran through 6 episodes without any trouble at all. I’ll try to touch only on the most pertinent bits since I’m covering 6 episodes together, but strap in, this is going to be looooong.

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Our story begins on a stormy night, in a haveli, where a woman’s agitated screams indicate gruesome murder or labour. No good ever came of a haveli and you can mark my words, kids. #EatTheRich  It turns out to be labour and seconds after, a heavily veiled woman (Payal Nair) makes off with a baby into the dead of the night. She evades all the security around the haveli and makes it to a ghat-type place where a priest is waiting for what seems to be a pre-planned rendezvous. Then, without too many words, she hands over the baby to him and drops Ominous Hints about how she’s being forced to give this kid away because it’s a girl. The priest is troubled but takes the child, and once the woman leaves, looks at her palms under the moonlight and declares that she’s going to be SO COOL when she grows up that he doesn’t even know what to name her that will be fitting. So he names her Anami. For real. I’m sure all besotted new parents feel this way about their new babies but this is just lazy. You’re a pandit, you have casual access to the world’s Sanskritized highfalutin names. And you go for The Unnamed. Ok then.

In the meantime, the haveli is rejoicing over the birth of a little boy to Satarupa (Narayani Shastri) and Vikram Aditya Singh (Ajay Chaudhury). The Dadaji, who bears an uncanny resemblance to the MDH guy, is ecstatic about the birth of their ‘waaris.’ Tell me they don’t give you #SameGuy feels.

This show is just determined to fuck over its young people in the matter of names, because they name the boy child Vatsalya Vikram Singh. As the bearer of a somewhat difficult-to-pronounce name, I really feel for both Anami and Vatsalya. It’s evident that they’re twins, but as Vats, the boy, is heir-apparent to this medieval family, it’s unclear why Satarupa and Damo had to secretly get rid off Anami.

We’re also introduced to the Evil part of the family, Pujan Singh (Praneet Bhat) who calls the Dadaji ‘Chachaji’ and his smirking wife. This really amplifies the Mahabharat feel because Praneet Bhat still has a Shakuni Mama hangover from Starbharat and is the Most Extra dude imaginable. He breaks into enthu-boys-at-visarjan-style dancing at any given opportunity and is all about the band-baaja. He’s obviously not happy about this waaris business but pretends to be. We also see a toddler who runs out from inside the haveli but gets a really Stern Look from Dadi (Anju Mahendra) and is reluctantly dragged back in by a nurse. Oh, and their family priest is played by the long-suffering Tom Alter. He definitely has a hand in this giving-Anami-away business although he seems like a benevolent sorta babaji.

Then we flash forward 17 years into the future. Anami has been brought up by Pandit Murari Pathak and his wife Madhu (Lubna Salim aka Leela Bhabhi from Baa Bahoo Aur Baby), along with their own little boy Laddoo who seems to be about 8 or 9 years younger than Anami. Anami (Mahima Makwana), of course, is the main protagonist of this show. She’s an industrious little busybody who struts like she owns Varanasi, in her dhoti pants, embroidered blouses and jackets, and Mahadev/sadhu-style dreadlocks. I wasn’t too sure about the hair in the promos, but I think it works. It's obviously a part of her non-conforming person. She practices some form of dancing+martial arts in the morning, picks on her mom whom she lovingly calls ‘Paagal Panditayin,’ saves hapless devotees from fraudulent babas as a representative of her dad’s Gyan Vigyan Bhagwan initiative, tends to her chores, and picks on Laddoo for not preparing enough for his upcoming admission test to an English medium school, all before midday. Just typing this list exhausted me. 

The only drop of sorrow in her cup is that she’s adopted and must live with the fact that her biological mother gave her away for her selfish reasons. It’s interesting how this bothers her because her adoptive parents obviously love her to bits, but then you see that the Paagal Panditayin is not above twitting her about her adopted status when she loses her temper (like she does when Laddoo accidentally falls into the river while accompanying Anami on one of her missions). She regrets it immediately and goes to comfort Anami but this seems to be a longtime wound that can’t be undone. As a side note, this show is really gorgeously shot. I’m trying to keep screencaps at a minimum to prevent this ridiculously long post from becoming even longer but the lighting and camerawork here kinda make me want to shove this show into Gul Khan’s face. This show is already Sharmaji-ka-beta to 4Lions.

Ngl, I hadn’t expected to like Anami much (mostly because I’m not a huge fan of Mahima Makwana from whatever I saw of her weepy character in Sapne Suhaane Ladakpan Ke) but I’m very favourably disposed now. She certainly is young and brash in many ways, but also practical, contemplative, and mature.

Scene switches to Lal Mahal, situated in the vaguely-named Vihar which we learn is near Delhi. The Singhs are royalty there although their economic power derives only partially from whatever princely state position they presumably held pre-Independence. The real power comes from their Royal Steel Holdings company which is apparently a massive enterprise employing thousands of families in the area. And now, I really have to introduce you to Satarupa, the Motherest Mother of Them All. Here is Satarupa casually using a sword to slice her thumb open and offer her own blood as chadava to Kali as part of her son’s 17th birthday celebrations before using the same bloody thumb to give him a teeka. This is after a two-day fast, btw.

Man, for my 17th, my mother took me and a bunch of my friends to KFC and called it a day. (Ily, mommy, I wouldn’t have had it otherwise.)

You knew right from the start that Satarupa is not a person with many fucks to give but this casual establishment of Intense is kinda awe-inspiring. Mostly cos it’s Narayani Shastri, I think, who is a very formidable presence onscreen.

Side note: Both the Pathaks and Singhs are primarily Shiv devotees. Desi tv never fails in their tropes. You can tell so much about a show/family by the gods they worship. As a rule of thumb, the more intense the families, the likelier they are to worship Mahadev. Whereas YRKK and DABH-like families worship Ram-Sita or Radha-Krishna.

Old Dadaji gets up and announces that he really is too old to be chairperson of the company anymore (damn right, you look to be 105). And although he has always believed in keeping the family and business separate, he thinks the most capable person to succeed him is 17 yo Vatsalya (Devarshi Shah who looks disconcertingly like an older Darsheel Safary). Excuse me while I take an eye-roll break. Someone set Kangana Ranaut on this uncle who is trying to tell me that the only and most capable person in the vicinity is a boy who can barely grow a beard and who just happens to be his grandson.

Another side note, can we retire ominous chantings of saam-daam-dand-bhed as background score? I promise we’ll all still figure out who the evil schemers are. Predictably, Pujan Singh, his smirking wife, and his now-adult asshole son are Not Pleased. We learn that Vats’ dad had done something to displease Dadaji and has de facto been disinherited although he’s still very much a part of the family. Methinks this has something to do with the hidden-away toddler in the beginning. Man, there are too many secret children already for one show. So basically, Satarupa and Pujan are named caretakers of Vats’ legacy until he comes of age in a year. Meanski this Dadaji is just asking for Vats to get murdered. Why dafuq couldn’t he have named the very intimidating Satarupa successor, no one knows. No doubt it has to do with more bullshit about being a woman.

I will say in Vatsalya’s favour, he’s not happy about this situation and doesn’t think he’s ready or deserving. The fam decides to head to Varanasi where they traditionally have a puja for any new heir. We get some inkling of how Vats seems to be a genuinely nice kid despite all this money and spoiling. Satarupa is an affectionate but strict mother. They have this really sweet mother-son thing of singing old Hindi songs to one another and man, can Narayani Shastri sing.

This really brings home how weird the Anami situation is. Satarupa is a fond and doting mother but also fiercely protective of her son. I don’t really see her giving up her daughter just because it was a girl. When she already has a son too.

We make progress in the case of the Mysterious Toddler. It’s a guy called Narottam who lives in the same house but everyone seems to loathe him except Vatsalya. Narottam calls Satarupa ‘Chhoti Ma’ and Vikram ‘Papa’ and they both vehemently deny any relation and can’t stand the sight of him. It’s only on Vats’ insistence that he is allowed to accompany the family to Benaras. Also, the guy’s body language, tone, and a comment made by Pujan’s son Avdhoot make me think he’s possibly trans or gay or just likes to cross-dress. In Hindi soaps, it’s hard to tell the difference among various kinds of queerness. I’m thinking he’s Vikram’s illegitimate son but why he’s such an asshole to Narottam is a question. Satarupa and the family’s resentment I still understand (even if it’s a terrible thing to have brought up an innocent child amidst this hostility). But Vikram’s I don’t. I don’t like Vikram, I think. 

They head to the ghats and have their showy puja and stuff and of course, Anami and Vatsalya come face-to-face. Anami, who hates her birthday for being a reminder of the mother who gave her up, is already in a bad mood and none too pleased with the huge puja which is blocking access to her priest. Anami snips at Vats but he takes it in his stride and is polite. I like this boy more and more.

(please note Tej Khan in the background who is Vats’ bodyguard and also part-time Sid Mallya lookalike)

You know the Extra is hereditary because Anami apparently floats a diya into the Ganga every year to signify that she tyag-s her birth-mother the same way birth-mother gave Anami away. That is an awful lot of bandwidth to waste on someone you’ve never seen. Also, I have to say, how convenient that she hates the birth-mother and not the birth-father. Granted, her birth-father is a wet dishrag but she doesn’t know that. How does she assume it was the mother’s fault? For all she knows, the father made the mother give her up which is really the most common way this shit happens in India. I see your internalised misogyny, Anami. No matter how picturesquely you hold a diya against the Ganga.

Lots of things happen together after that. Damo sees Pandit Murari and recognizes him as the priest she gave Anami to and hides from him but then is guilt-wrought. She runs to Tom Alter for advice who reassures her that she has committed no sin and that the sacrifice was necessary. He gives her a rudraksh bracelet to protect Vatsalya with. Avdhoot and his drunk friends make Narottam dance to Namak Ishq Ka in a very humiliating manner. Pujan hires a gunda to do away with Vats before they leave Benaras. And we know that Satarupa did not happily give up Anami.

They have their pagdi ceremony and Dadaji impresses the responsibility of the position on Vats. Here’s an idea, maybe you shouldn’t leave the livelihood of thousands in the hands of a 17 yo, Dadaji. But I want to take a moment to address how soberly dressed this family is, including the Evils. After the monstrosities I see across the board these days, this show is so easy on the eyes, I almost cry.

On the other hand, Madhu is mad at Anami for being such a party-pooper about her own birthday (justifiably so). Anami confesses that this day always brings up more questions than she can handle and that’s why she hates it and there’s nothing anyone else can do to help her. She does reaffirm that no one can take her away from the Pathaks, though, and runs off to the ghat where she meets Vatsalya who also feels suffocated under the weight of expectations on him. They discover their shared birthday and chat about mothers and philosophy as 17 yos are wont to do. Really, these kids grow on me all the time.

Whilst sharing their existential angst, a couple of mercenaries attack Vats from under water. They try to pull him under and drown him but Anami fights them off until Tej Khan appears and manages to save both of them. Vatsalya gives Anami his protective bracelet out of gratitude and tells her that if he had a sister, he’d have liked her to be like Anami. After the two return home, Tej Khan and Satarupa set out to catch the gundas, Tej having actually seen the face of one. After realizing they can’t give them any info about who had hired them, Satarupa ruthlessly orders their drowning and the family returns to Lal Mahal.

Anami’s next project is Laddoo’s admission to an English medium school for which she does her best to teach their parents and Laddoo enough English to ace the entrance test. Back home at Lal Mahal, Vats wants to be allowed to return to his hostel in Delhi for two months to clear his final exams but Satarupa is adamant. She will not let Vatsalya out of the house until she can send him to the States for college. I’m so confused as to how their world works. No college in the world, no matter how much money you have, is going to accept a student without a high school diploma of some kind. She’s like “we’ll send you earlier than I’d planned to.” Halwa hai? And what is the guarantee no one will send assassins after him over there? This blind faith that desis have in America’s supposed magic ability to fix all their problems is a disease. Vats is really mad that he’s going to be housebound for the foreseeable future and is perfect bait for Pujan to instigate. Goaded by his uncle, he runs away to Delhi and actually makes it halfway there until we realise Tej Khan was tailing him all along and after some momentary panic at home, has orders from Satarupa to bring him back. 

Listen, I want to know which agency they hire security from because it seems to be the only one in tellywood which is able to do its job. That’s twice Tej Khan has saved Vats’ life in like 4 episodes. 

Unfortunately, Laddoo does not make it to the school, even when Anami tries to get him in via the sports quota and even more unfortunately, on the way back to Vihar, on Pujan’s orders, a truck rams into Vats’ car, killing him and Tej.

*sigh*

I knew this was coming, of course. The promos made it obvious. There has to be an even more compelling reason for Anami to be brought back to Lal Mahal than there had been for her to have been given away in the first place. But I have to say it was still a blow. Even though it’s only been 4ish episodes, this boy was delightful. Despite his money and surroundings, he was sweet and considerate and respectful towards everyone, including Narottam whom his entire family despises. All he wanted was to be allowed to finish high school and play his guitar and hang out with friends. And he was on the fucking phone with Satarupa, singing Hai Apna Dil Toh Awara, and his mom heard the accident happen.  *sobs* I’m not crying, you’re crying.

Anami’s bracelet, the same protective one given to her by Vats, snags on a corner and snaps at the same moment and Anami is very rattled. In true desi tv style, she’s got a Feeling. Just like Madhu and Laddoo had about losing her on her birthday. And Vatsalya had about Benaras completing him in some inexplicable way. What would the Feelings industry do without desi TV? She tries to restring the bracelet but goes through the day feeling restless and heavy and talks to her Dad about how she wishes she could understand her own feelings. #SamePinchAnami Listen, I’m really here for this shows functional parent-child relationships (of course, before we get to the elephant in the room that is Anami-Satarupa’s relationship). Like, Satarupa and Vatsalya were adorable and half the impact of his death is felt through Satarupa’s loss. And Anami has really great individual relationships with both parents. (No one cares about irrelevant Vikram and his periodic declarations that he’s proud of Vatsalya.) Even Pujan and Avdhoot are equal partners in Evil. I just can’t harp enough on how rare it is to see honest parent-child conversations about fears, insecurities, dreams on desi TV.

Heavy mourning at Lal Mahal, with the family remembering their individual relationships with the sunny Vatsalya. One moment of confusion where some rando calls Vats’ dad Baldev but I swear he’s been called Vikram all along. Like, is he that irrelevant that the show can’t be bothered to get his name right in the 6th episode? Obviously, it’s too early for me to have formed any kind of attachment to this show or its characters but I find myself dearly wishing that Vats and his budget Sid Mallya bodyguard miraculously survived the accident and are being hidden away by Satarupa as she gets to the bottom of this (since we saw no cremation). He was a good kid. We need more of those and fewer angry assholes on TV. In between the mourning, we’re introduced to Sudha (Sangita Ghosh) who is the main antagonist, wiki tells me. Toh this Pujan and his family are just ainvayi, I suppose, in case villainy kam pad jaaye. 

Sudha appears to be a dreamy airhead only invested in her toilette at first glance, but then she rapidly exhibits changes in emotion that would put a mime to shame. She sheds a few tears over the news of Vats’ death, saying that it’s so unfair that the sins of the elders have been visited on an innocent boy, and then instantly cheers up because tears would mar her beauty and she can’t really bring herself to feel sorry for anyone at Lal Mahal (didn’t I tell you that nothing good ever comes of havelis?) She definitely has some deep-seated hate for that place and its people. I don’t know if she’s Narottam’s mother, but that is a possibility. She’s wearing her saree the Bengali way and something about her surroundings hint at her being a courtesan. But I just want you to stop for a minute and appreciate the beauty of these shots. #crie

Back at the haveli, Satarupa, in her grief, tries to shoot herself but I’m not worried she will because LOL that is not how this works. The most interesting reaction is Narottam’s. We see him lying on Vatsalya’s bed with tears rolling down his face, but then he gets up and puts on Vats’ favourite jacket and talks to the family photographs lining his walls. He says Vats never really appreciated what it meant to BE Vatsalya Vikram Singh but he, Narottam, does-- it’s all he’s ever wanted to be, and you can sense that there is this conflict between his love for Vats and his resentment for what Vats had and he never will. I have no idea why he doesn’t leave Lal Mahal where he’s so vilified nor why the family allows him to live there. It would’ve been the easiest thing to have sent him to a boarding school and made him live elsewhere all these years, but they did not. God, I’m blown by the writing so far. I haven’t seen character-writing like this in a while.

Finally, we’re introduced to the dude who is potentially Anami’s future love interest. You’ll never guess what he does for a living. He’s a....*drumroll* COP! I definitely missed the memo that said cops are fashionable again on TV. He’s a generic looking dude called Adhiraj but he’s not godawful, even if he’s not quite standout. He definitely walks with all the swag you’d expect from a CBI cop who has just bullied his senior into giving him the Lal Mahal case which he believes is not an accident. He wants to investigate “apne tareekon se” so you just know he’s going to do some illegal shit.

Adhiraj comes complete with an efficient if slightly chirpy assistant whom he manages to chastise in their first scene for wearing perfume *eyeroll* and a background secret connection to Lal Mahal where his interest is personal. 

Okay, is there anyone in the whole damn NCR who doesn’t have a vested interest in Lal Mahal? Adhiraj goes to lurk outside the place and brood at an indistinct photograph in his pocket, of a family with two young boys, taken against the same building. Matlab yeh Lal Mahal walon ne kitne logon ko antagonise kiya hai in the last 20-30 years? Where did they even have the time to piss off other people while trying to kill each other or conversely, keep each other alive? Anami’s multitasking also seems hereditary only.

It’s too early to ship anything yet but I sense potential. This fellow could work on his dialogue delivery while Anami and Satarupa work on their relationship.

Next week: Pujan is manipulating the Press and Anami is getting ready to thrash some chhichore boys who surround her bike.

There’s obviously a lot to like over here. The writing and cinematography leap out immediately. But there’s also some generally good acting all around. It definitely tends towards the melodramatic but then, which show does not, these days? I particularly am intrigued by the familial relationships and don’t actually give a fuck about Anami and Adhiraj. (I know!) I looked up the producers-- newbies Sanjot Kaur and Bhupinder Singh for Rolling Pictures and director Ashwini Chaudhary who has a few forgettable films and shows under his belt. I can’t trace any precedence but things are off to a really promising start and I’ll keep watching as long as my interest stays.

(Just please, please, please let there not be any gratuitous sexual/physical violence involved that is cavalierly treated.)