April final

Hello Friends. Funasia lives and breathes community, but also save a lot of business that might
the motto of Bringing the community be on the verge of closing. Together we can try to
together. Unfortunately, we have been hit minimize the damages, keeping our future in mind.
by an unforeseen calamity, a Pandemic
which no one had ever thought of We understand how much more the community looks
or imagined. A lot of businesses are forward to listening to their favorite RJ’s. The shows
suffering. People are suffering. They are will go on. We have quickly adapted ourselves to
isolated and severely lonely maintaining these changing needs. Our dedicated team is working
social distancing. Many small businesses harder. Our enthusiastic RJ’s will continue to bring
are shutting down or bearing heavy forward their shows, keeping in mind their safety and
losses. Human lives are also at risk. We recognizing the work from home normal. We have
are skeptical and uncertain about our immediately worked on our technology to provide you
future. It is very natural to feel scared and similar and even better audio-visual entertainment
fearful at these times. through your favorite 104.9 FM Funasia Radio. Do
not forget to download the Radio Fan App to continue
However, we know from history that listening to the shows, if you are not driving at these
calamities have happened, and quarantine times.
economies have revived themselves. We
just need to stay positive and move with Perfect Tax has a new initiative Perfect Capital. Perfect
the flow. We need to avoid stagnation Capital is aiding small or midsize business including
and keep calm. Things will take its sole proprietors to seek disaster loan assistance
course and will eventually settle down. from government and private funding organizations
We need to be prepared for that future to combat this tough time. Your business might be
which might be a little different than what eligible for a lot of special Tax benefits and financing
we had planned. options. We can help you with SBA and Private lending
financing. Do associate with us on Free webinars
We feel fortunate that we have more than when we announce the dates on the radio or on our
one kind of business that we operate. website to have a greater understanding, that you are
At such times some businesses become not alone.
essential and important and others
need to take a backseat. We realize at Last but not the least we have a great team which
such times, how closely we affect our is constantly working to see how we can be true to
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our Media and entertainment business open to suggestions from our community. Please do
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They seek their enjoyment even more put stay Positive. We are together in this and shall sail
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responsibility to keep you entertained
and happy for your mental health. On
the other hand, we have our Perfect
Tax business which can directly help the
community to procure the distress loans
that the government has sanctioned
at this hour of fatigue. It becomes our
responsibility to not only guide our

Hello readers, this is yet another edition
of DesiPages Magazine. Due to the
current Coronavirus situation and for
your safely, we have not mailed out the
magazine. But we still have it available
for you digitally. We are aware that you
have been associated with this print
medium for a long time. You wait for
your doze of Bollywood news and other
content and not to forget the coupons.
We are hoping that things will become
normal very soon and you will be able
to hold and read the magazine the way
you like it. But, now let us go with the
flow.
These are challenging times for us.
The spread of Novel Coronavirus has
made many alterations to our lives.
Humans are social beings. Quarantine
is a situation where we have to be
physically distant but, do not have to
be emotionally and socially distant. The
pros and cons of globalization and the
impact of social media are now much
more understood. The spread of the
virus is global but, on a positive note,
we can be in touch with all our loved
ones on the social media globally. Even
when we are just two houses away and
cannot meet with each other, we can
see each other through video calls.
We should never lose our judgment to
make our choices. Those are the early
few things we are taught in school,
when we were choosing between juice
and water. Since, we have time for
ourselves we should use this down time
to internalize and recognize, what are
the essentials and what are the lifestyle
things that we can live without to live
a happy and complete life. Every cloud
has a silver lining. Wherever, this virus
leads us to, we should come out as a
winner, personally and emotionally.
Let us make our earth a cleaner and
healthier place in entirety after the virus
is gone.



DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 4

DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 5

bollywood news AYUSHMANN






this Month 3





DEEPIKA
FARHAN

1 After acing the role of an athlete
in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, Farhan
Akhtar is all set to step into the
boxing ring for Rakeysh Omprakash
Mehra’s directorial Toofan which
is set to hit the screens on 2nd Actor Ayushmann Khurrana’s upcoming film
October 2020. Talking about the Gulabo Sitabo reunites him with director
film Farhan shared a few insights Shoojit Sircar, eighth years after their hit,
about the prep and his experience Vicky Donor and also features megastar
of working on the project
Amitabh Bachchan.
Telling us how boxing is currently “Gulabo Sitabo is an extremely simple film.
Real-life couple Deepika Padukone his groove and how he is going to It’s a sweet film about the banter between
and Ranveer Singh are back as an continue the drill he said, “I had to a landlord and a tenant. I’m the tenant,
on-screen couple. The actress says learn a sport I had zero knowledge Bachchan sir is the landlord and we are
considering the kind of movies the about, but it’s one of the best always at loggerheads. It’s as simple as that,”
pair has done in the past, doing 83 disciplines. What boxing does for said Ayushmann.
was a refreshing change. you physically, mentally, and even “The magic is, sometimes you find simplicity
Deepika will be seen as Romi Dev, spiritually is amazing. I’ve genuinely most exciting in life and that’s what the film is
wife of cricket legend Kapil Dev, had the best time of my life learning about,” he added.
played by Ranveer in the upcoming boxing, and I intend to carry on Set in Lucknow, Gulabo Sitabo is billed as
film 83. learning and playing the sport”. a quirky family comedy, penned by Sircar’s
Asked about sharing screen space The actor is undergoing rigorous longtime collaborator Juhi Chaturvedi.
with her husband once again after training and isn’t skipping any Ayushmann, who is teaming up with
movies like Goliyon Ki Raasleela session as the role demands a Bachchan for the first time, said that working
Ram-Leela and Bajirao Mastani, certain kind of physique. Farhan will with the 77-year-old actor was a learning
Deepika said, “It was good. It was be essaying the character of a boxer experience.
a refreshing change because of in Toofan for which he is leaving no “Bachchan sir is amazing. What I marvel
the kind of films that we have done stone unturned to get in the skin of about him is that he’s so well-prepared
before. It was a completely different it. always. He will know your lines also. It is not
setting, era, characters, costumes easy to act in front of him. You have to be on
and dialogues. It was refreshing to your toes as a co-actor,” Ayushmann said.
“We were both surprised. We had 2 Ayushmann has, over the years, build an on-
work with him in this capacity.”
screen image of doing socially relevant films,
to remind ourselves that we had touching on topics ranging from balding to
worked with each other before homosexuality. The actor said that he’s “full
because these characters were of gratitude” for the work and love coming
so different from what we had his way and feels for one to continue doing
already done before and we look relatable films, it’s important to keep an ear
forward to working with each other to the ground.
in contemporary films a lot more,” “It’s important to know what’s going around.
said the actress. I dwell on relatable subjects. If you are
The film, based on India’s historical un-approachable with the common folk,
1983 Cricket World Cup victory, then where will you get your fodder from?
also has Deepika donning the hat It becomes difficult but now I do it with an
of a producer. agenda. To look for good stories,” he added.


DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 6

DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 7

Chicken


Shaami Kabab





























ep Time

Prep Time : 20 mins INSTRUCTIONS
Pr


INS
TRUCTIONS
:

20 mins
Cook Time : 50 mins
Cook Time : 50 mins
Soak 1 cup of chana dal for at least 30



Servings : 4 1. 1. Soak 1 cup of chana dal f or at least 30
Servings
:

4
minut es.
minutes.
2. 2. In a pr essur e cook er heat oil and add cumin
In a pressure cooker heat oil and add cumin
INGREDIENTS seeds, cloves, black peppercorns, cinnamon,
es, black pepper
seeds, clo
v
ns, cinnamon,
cor
INGREDIENTS
coriander seeds, ajw
coriander seeds, ajwain, red chili and chili
ed chili and chili
ain, r
or 1-2 minut
es. Then add the
es. Sauté f
lak
1 Cup Chana Dal f flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes. Then add the
1 Cup Chana Dal
soaked chana dal and mix thoroughly.
2 tsp Oil
2 tsp Oil soak ed chana dal and mix thor oughly .
en and salt. A
dd
A
dd the boneless chick
1 tsp Cumin Seeds 3. 3. Add the boneless chicken and salt. Add
1 tsp Cumin Seeds
equir
er and bring it t
o
ed quantity of w
at
7-8 Clo v es r required quantity of water and bring it to
7-8 Cloves
simmer
7-8 Black Peppercorns
7-8 Black P epper cor ns simmer. .
Cook until all the w
er has e
at
ed, and
at
apor
v
2 sticks Cinnamon
2 stick s Cinnamon 4. 4. Cook until all the water has evaporated, and
en is t
the chick
ender
2 tsp Coriander Seeds the chicken is tender. .
2 tsp Coriander Seeds
Let it cool for some time and then grind all the
1 tsp Ajwain
1 tsp Ajw ain 5. 5. Let it cool f or some time and then grind all the
ingredients to a thick paste.
3 Red Chili Whole ingr edients t o a thick past e.
ed Chili Whole
3 R
In the paste add ginger, green chili, garlic,
1/2 tsp Chilli Flak es 6. 6. In the past e add ginger , gr een chili, garlic,
1/2 tsp Chilli Flakes
coriander leaves and mint leaves. Mix all the
500-gram Boneless Chicken
500-gr am Boneless Chick en coriander leav es and mint leav es. Mix all the
edients t
o combine w
ell.
ingr
1 tsp Salt ingredients to combine well.
1 tsp Salt
Now add the eggs and mix thoroughly.
1 cup W at er 7. 7. No w add the eggs and mix thor oughly .
1 cup Water
e the k
our palm mak
Using y
y
ebabs of an
1 tsp Ginger
, f
1 tsp Ginger, finely chopped 8. 8. Using your palm make the kebabs of any
inely chopped
ally f
ound
ed shape and size, gener
lat r
desir
een Chilies
2 Green Chilies desired shape and size, generally flat round
2 Gr
shape.
2 tsp Garlic, finely chopped
2 tsp Garlic, f inely chopped shape.
y the k
w fr
ebabs on
Dip them in egg and shallo
9.
1/2 cup Coriander Leaves, chopped
1/2 cup Coriander Leav es, chopped 9. Dip them in egg and shallow fry the kebabs on
both sides till golden br
o
wn.
1/2 cup Mint Leaves, chopped both sides till golden brown.
es, chopped
1/2 cup Mint Leav
y

0.
1
Serv
een chutne
ebabs with gr
e the k
2 Eggs 10. Serve the kebabs with green chutney. .
2 Eggs
DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 8

DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 9

Bollywood Actors


rediscover themselves


during















nanya Panday dressed up in a little black
dress to cheer herself. Taking to her
Instagram account, she posted a picture in
Awhich she is seen posing in the stylish black

outfit. But more than the image, it was her caption
that left netizens amused. “All dressed up to go out
and sit in my living room.. #QuarantineMood,
#SelfIsolation,” she wrote.










s in self-quarantine and the actress is dealing with it
by dancing with Tiger Shroff’s sister, Krishna Shroff.

Disha shared a video with Krishna and wrote, “This
Iis how we do it #quarintinelife @kishushroff.”










ouni Roy has been in self-quarantine.
She shared beautiful posts on
Instagram that will definitely make

Myou cook a meal. She can be also
seen plucking tomatoes in a farm.






DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 10

happak actress Deepika Padukone

is spending her Corona lockdown
time only in food and exercise.
CHer Insta account is proof of this,
currently filled with only food pictures. Recently

the star shared a picture of her chocolate
dessert.








ll companies asking their employees to
work from home to prevent the spread of
coronavirus, actor Kartik Aaryan on Tuesday

Agave a glimpse of his work from the home
mode with an Instagram picture. The actor in his latest
Instagram picture is seen dressed in formals from head
to toe and sitting in a bathtub. Looking dapper as
always, Aaryan wore a grey coloured suit with a white

shirt underneath and black formal shoes. “Work From
Home they said,” he captioned the picture











mitabh Bachchan has been inspiring fans
to stay fit during self-quarantine in the time
of the coronavirus outbreak. Big B posted a

Aselfie from his gym. “Keep the gym going..
build resistance.. fight fight fight,” he captioned the
image.

















DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 11

GUNJAN SAXENA





unjan Saxena –
The Kargil Girl
will see Janhvi
Gportraying a
real-life person for the first
time in her career. She
plays the role of Indian
Air Force officer Gunjan
Saxena who had the honor
of being the first Indian
woman combat aviator to
be commissioned into the
war zone during the Kargil
War.
The film, directed
by Sharan Sharma,
produced by Zee Studios evacuation. I would say it’s a very satisfying feeling
and Dharma Productions also stars Pankaj Tripathi as when you save a life because that is what you’re there
Saxena’s father.
for,” she had said.
Who is Gunjan Saxena?
The IAF pilot had a close shave when an enemy
Long before the first women fighter pilots were missile missed her aircraft and crashed behind it. She,
commissioned into the Indian Air Force, Flight however, continued with her duties.
Lieutenants Gunjan Saxena and Srividya Rajan She was later honored with the Shaurya Vir award an
scripted history when they ventured into a war zone, Indian military decoration which was awarded to her
becoming the first Indian women in combat.
for her valor, courageous action or self-sacrifice. Both
Flight lieutenant Gunjan Saxena was the first Indian Saxena’s father and brother were serving in the Indian
Air Force woman officer who went to war. She made Army at the time. “I could not wait to be called,” said
history during the Kargil war in 1999 when, as a flying Gunjan Saxena in an interview back in 2006. She
officer, she flew a Cheetah aircraft into the combat also came to be known as the Kargil Girl.
zone and rescued several soldiers.
After pursuing her graduation from Hansraj College
Gunjan, the daughter of an Army officer, was in New Delhi, Gunjan had joined the Delhi Flying
summoned by the Indian Air Force when the conflict Club at Safdarjung.
between India and Pakistan escalated. She was asked Flight Lieutenant Gunjan Saxena served as a short
to fly in Srinagar and she agreed.
service commissioned officer and didn’t quite have
Indian Youth reports that Saxena was enlisted to the opportunities that women in Air Force have today.
airdrop vital supplies to Indian troops at high points Her tenure ended after seven years, but women in the
in the Dras and Batalik sectors. According to the air force can now get a permanent commission.
website, she also was crucial in informing her seniors Gunjan said that the decision to induct women as
about enemy positions and their status which helped fighter pilots was a positive step on part of the Air
the Indian Army strategize.
Force. “Being a pioneer, I would say, it feels great and
Gunjan Saxena had said missions where she I would only say that I hope these women who’ve come
evacuated injured Indian Army soldiers were her into the fighter stream now give their 100 percent and
biggest motivation during Kargil. “I think it is the really, really touch the sky with glory”, she added.
ultimate feeling that you can ever have as a helicopter
pilot. That was one of our main roles there - casualty




DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 12

DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 13

AYUSHMANN KHURRANA: BLESSED TO BE ACTING

AT A TIME WHEN I CAN ROOT FOR SOCIAL CAUSES




Ayushmann Khurrana has proved Aligarh, and Kalki Koechlin’s strength
himself time and again by portraying in Margarita with A Straw.”
characters not many have tried before, Ayushmann also mentioned films that
and he feels blessed to be an actor at brilliantly took on the stereotype faced
a time where he can stand up and root by the LGBTQ+ community.
for social causes on screen.
“Films like Kapoor And Sons, Karan
On his new film Shubh Mangal Zyada Johar’s Bombay Talkies and Sonam
Saavdhan, Ayushmann feels the film Kapoor’s Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa
has been successfully made, released Laga have all depicted and handled
and accepted is because even before same-sex relationships with profound
same-sex relationship became legal in thought, dignity, and sensitivity,” he
India, many actors stuck their neck out noted.
and have given the audience some
brilliant work on the subject. He says “Today, Shubh Mangal Zyada
he has all those actors and films to Saavdhan is being celebrated the world
credit first. over and I have to share this moment
He added, “Before Shubh Mangal with all the actors and directors who
“The fact that Shubh Mangal Zyada Zyada Saavdhan, our industry has had taken it on themselves to promote
Saavdhan is a success today is also made some of the most soul- inclusivity in our country. This is a very
because the path was made for it by touching films on the subject. I don’t special moment in my life and I’m
others. Many before me have toiled think we can ever forget Shabana cherishing all the love that my film and
hard to make the path smoother. We Azmi ji’s incredible performance my performance is receiving and I feel
have to realize and acknowledge the and Nandita Das’s heart-wrenching blessed to be acting at a time where
monumental work that was done by acting in Fire, Sanjay Suri and Purab I can stand up, back and root for a
some of the finest actors of Indian Kohli’s vulnerability in My Brother social cause like this,” he declared.
cinema much before me,” he said. Nikhil, Manoj Bajpayee’s brilliance in




Very few know that Bollywood Diva Deepika Padukone made her acting
debut with Kannada film, Aishwarya. Today, she is not only one of the
popular faces in Bollywood but also one of the leading actresses in the
industry. Recently, the Chhapaak actress was asked if she would still
go back to doing South films if she gets an opportunity and her reply
will surely win your heart! Talking about the same, Deepika said, “Of
course. Language has never been a barrier. I think at the end of the day,
what I look for as an actor is exciting content. In fact, there are a lot of
south film directors and writers who approached me. Eventually, I think
it’s about finding the right content.”
On the work front, Deepika has her kitty full of projects which include,
Kabir Khan’s 83 where she will be seen sharing screen space with
husband Ranveer Singh. While Ranveer will be seen playing the role of
Kapil Dev, DP will be essaying the role of his wife Romi Dev on screen.
The movie is based on India’s historic 1983 Cricket World Cup victory.
Deepika is also co-producing the movie.
Deepika Padukone was asked Apart from this, she will also be seen in an untitled film co-starring
if she would go back to South Ananya Panday and Siddhant Chaturvedi. She has also announced
another film production Mahabharat, to be made from Draupadi’s
films and her reply will win your point of view.
heart!



DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 14

DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 15

Aid Package from

the Government









orona virus has created serious
threat to businesses. They are Let us understand the Economic Injury Disaster Loan in detail.
Csuffering immensely and seeing
fall in sales due to slowed consumer This is provided to help small business overcome temporary
spending, supply chain disruptions, and loss of revenue faced by them.
workplace productivity and absenteeism.
US Government has come out with a 2 This loan has following special features.
Trillion Dollars Corona Virus Aid package
which includes immediate assistance for 1) LOW INTEREST RATES: 3.75% for businesses and
small businesses. 2.75% for non profit organizations.
They are as under:- 2) LONG-TERM REPAYMENT PLANS: Up to a maximum

of 30 years, first payment due only after 12 months
Emergency grants: The bill provides from first disbursement.
$10 billion for grants of up to $10,000
to provide emergency funds for small 3) AMOUNT OF MAXIMUM LOAN:Up to $2 million for
businesses to cover immediate operating each business
costs. 4) PERMITTED USES OF LOAN:Pay fixed debts,payroll,
accounts payable, and other bills
Forgivable loans: There is $350 5) COST OF LOAN: No upfront fees
billion allocated for the Small Business 6) PREPAYMENT PENALTY: No prepayment loan
Administration to provide loans of up to 7) TIME LIMIT TO AVAIL DISBURSEMENT: One year
$10 million per business. Any portion of from approval of loan
that loan used to maintain payroll, keep 8) QUALIFYING CRITERIA: Location in Disaster affected
workers on the books or pay for rent, area. (Texas qualifies) and shortfall in sales
mortgage and existing debt could be causing liquidity issue
forgiven, provided workers stay employed
through the end of June. 9) COLLATERAL REQUIRED:
a) No collateral asked for loan of $25000 or less
Relief for existing loans: There is $17 billion b) For loan above $25000 collateral must
to cover six months of payments for small be given if available
businesses already using SBA loans. c) No loan will be denied if no collateral is available to
offer
Out of above three, the most significant is d) If there is lien on collateral, SBA will accept to be
the Forgivable loans. It is called Economic second lien holder
Injury Disaster Loan.


DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 16

COVID-19 DISASTER
HIGHER EDUCATION COSTS: HOW TO GET
BUSINESS LOANS UP
THE BEST TAX TREATMENT
Various tax benefits, including tax exemption,
TO 2 MILLION
tax deferral, tax credits, and deductions,
are available if you are paying or saving for
college or other higher education costs. This
• Do you want to be
Guide suggests ways to take advantage of
positioned not to fail in this
these benefits.
Many tax benefits are available to help you
Aid Package from pay higher education costs, whether for your
unexpected time?
• Vaishali Thakkar children or yourself. Because of the variety of FREE
Is your business affected
CEO Perfect Tax
the Government & Finance benefits and programs, this area is one of the APPOINTMENTS
most complex that an individual can face.
directly or indirectly by
Over the next few weeks we will discuss this
Financial Guide and the strategies you can use to build savings for higher
COVID-19 ?
• Are you having hard time paying your employees? to discuss the Loan that you Qualify for.
education, and tax credits currently available to help ease the financial
burden of paying for education.
• Do you want your business to be evaluated because
EMPLOYER-PROVIDED EDUCATION ASSISTANCE
you have no idea how this disaster is affecting your
If your employer paid education assistance benefits (e.g., reimbursements
of tuition), part or all of them may be tax-free. You can exclude up to
business?
$5,250 per year of the benefits you receive under a qualified educational
assistance program. But you can`t both exclude and deduct the same item,
Perfect Capital is aiding small or midsize business
even if it`s otherwise deductible. In order to qualify, your employer must
have established an educational assistance plan that does not discriminate
including sole proprietors to seek disaster loan
in favor of highly paid employees or owners. The exclusion applies to
assistance from government and private funding
undergraduate level courses other than those involving sports, game, and
hobbies. The courses do not need to relate to your job. The exclusion is
organizations to combat this tough time. We can help you with SBA and Private lending
available for tuition, fees, books, and supplies but not meals, lodging or transportation. And it applies to benefits for graduate-level courses.
Perfect Tax has a new initiative Perfect Capital. Your financing.
In addition to the exclusion for qualifying education plans, your employer can provide reimbursement for business related courses, including
graduate courses. If your employer does not reimburse you for these expenses, you may be entitled to deduct them as a miscellaneous
business might be eligible for lot of special Tax Please schedule a free appointment to discuss
itemized deduction subject to the two percent deduction floor. To qualify, the expense must meet the requirement of your employer or the law
benefits and also financing options. this with us.
or maintain or improve skills in your current job. The course must not meet minimum education requirements for your job or qualify you for
a new trade or business. To learn more reach us at 469-213-1519.

































DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 17

5
HEALTH


STOP THE SPREAD OF



RUMORS



KNOW THE FACTS


ABOUT CORONAVIRUS








01 Diseases can make anyone sick regardless of their race or ethnicity.
Fear and anxiety about COVID-19 can cause people to avoid or reject others even though
they are not at risk for spreading the virus.


02 For most people, the immediate risk of becoming seriously ill from the virus that causes
COVID-19 is thought to be low.
Older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions may be
at higher risk for more serious complications from COVID-19.



03 Someone who has completed quarantine or has been released from isolation does not pose

a risk of infection to other people.



There are simple things you can do to help keep yourself and others healthy.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially
04 after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing; going to the bathroom; and before
eating or preparing food.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.



05 You can help stop COVID-19 by knowing the signs and symptoms:


• Cough



• Shortness of breath
• Fever
Seek medical advice if you Develop symptoms and
• Have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19
or live in or have recently traveled from an area with ongoing spread of
COVID-19. Call ahead before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency
room. Tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.



DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 18

DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 19

Sonakshi Sinha has never kept ‘khamosh’ when it SONAKSHI
comes to speaking her mind. In a recent tweet, which
came as a reaction to reports that she is the only Indian
female actor to enter the INR 1,500 crore club in the
past decade, the actor shared how she kept her head
held high and realised that “lobbying wasn’t needed,
awards didn’t matter, fake friendships were beneath me
and that there is no substitute for hard work”. SINHA
says she’s never asked a
In her 10-year Bollywood journey, which started with a producer for work, doesn’t
bang with Dabangg, Sonakshi has featured in over 20
films, apart from many special numbers in movies. She
says she is aware of how hard she has worked, mostly
believe in lobbying for
uninterrupted, and that’s what matters. “Friendships
come and go over here. Lobbying is something I don’t
awards
even think of. I’ve never gone to a producer and said,
‘please give me work’. I’ve been truly fortunate that
good work has always come to me.... My work ethic,
like that with every project that I do, but that doesn’t
the kind of hard work I put in, my principles... that’s
mean there haven’t been performances that have
what I think will take one forward. I’m happy doing
been loved by the audiences and critics alike,” she
that, keeping my head down and just concentrating on
my job,” the actor tells us. kindly to them. My best is yet to come. I want to think
says.
On the awards front, Sonakshi had bagged almost Sonakshi points out that her work in films such as
Lootera (2013), Akira (2016), Noor (2017) and
every big debutante honor for Dabangg. But she did
Kalank (2019), got a thumbs up from critics. “Praise
feel snubbed and underestimated sometimes. But
does come your way, but unless you are friends with
that only inspires the 32-year-old to do even better.
the higher-ups in the publications or at the awards,
“The critics are harsh on me because I come from a
you won’t be featured in the nominations. You have
commercial school of films, and they don’t take too
to maintain a certain friendship with them, which is
something I find stupid. I want to let my work speak
for itself. And honestly, people like Aamir (Khan) and
Kangana (Ranaut) have proved that you don’t have
to get awards, especially to be called a great actor.”
But it’s not something that bothers her. “If I have to
be somebody’s friend to get an award, I am sorry I
can’t do that. But yes, I am very happy with the kind of
response I get from the audiences,” she says.
Sonakshi recounts how at one award show, she was
nominated for Lootera, and was confident about
winning, but it went to another actor. “It felt strange...
When I asked [them] how come you thought that the
critics’ award should also go to the same actress who
got popular choice award, they said that she had a
better box office year,” Sonakshi says.
On a lighter note, she says, “If one goes by this logic,
I should have won the award for each one of my
INR 100 crore films that had released. That’s when
I completely lost faith in any of this business and just
decided to do my work and do it well.












DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 20

DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 21

D
S
K KIDS
I



O
R
C CORNER
R
N
E








Join the Dots Name the Animals
I
D
K KIDS

S
C CORNER
O
R
N
E
R
Join the Dots Name the Animals













The Lion & The Fox
Its was a hot Summer days. A Lion and a Fox
reach a small water body for a drink. They begin
arguing and fighting about who should drink
first. After a while, they were tired and stop for
breath, when they notice vultures above. Soon
they they realize that the vultures are waiting for
one or both of them to fall, to feast on them. The
lion and the boar then decide that it was best to
make uo and be friends than fight and become
food for vultures. They drink the water together
and go their ways after.
April 10th
MORAL: Those who strive are often watched by
The Lion & The Fox
other to take advantage of their defeat. 2020
DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 26
Its was a hot Summer days. A Lion and a Fox
reach a small water body for a drink. They begin
arguing and fighting about who should drink
first. After a while, they were tired and stop for
breath, when they notice vultures above. Soon
they they realize that the vultures are waiting for
one or both of them to fall, to feast on them. The
lion and the boar then decide that it was best to
make uo and be friends than fight and become
food for vultures. They drink the water together
and go their ways after.

MORAL: Those who strive are often watched by Coming
other to take advantage of their defeat. Soon




DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 22

DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 23

Party
SAREE








you got to hack from these

Bollywood beauties!

Sarees are integral to India. We grow up, subconsciously linking sarees to every
special and auspicious occasion. However westernized/ global we may become in
our choices – saree – will always remain close to our hearts. Festivals, interviews,
functions, weddings, meetings, rituals, ceremonies or parties – every special event
calls for a sari!
Even the ultra-glam Bollywood divas have a bias for eternally charming sarees.
They are seen flaunting designer and party-wear sarees for fashion shows, haute
Cannes outings, award ceremonies, film festivals, premiers, weddings, parties and
more.
Shouldn’t we be taking inspiration, then? Of course, yes! Let’s look at some of
the latest trends in Bollywood party-wear sarees which DesiPages trending section
has picked up. We have closely watched our Bollywood divas flaunting their saree
looks, which we bring to you here. So here we go...









SEQUINS







he vibrancy and flow of sequins are integral to the Indian
fashion sensibilities these days. Sequin was once just an
Tembellishment but now it is an all over saree in different
hues and shades. Grab eyeballs at Indian ceremonies and
pre-wedding parties, dressed in allover sequins in different
shades. To look different, though, you may choose a
gorgeous party-wear saree with a corset blouse or just a
bustier. Pair your highly sheen saree with stylish plain blouses
with designer details to create fab, chic looks. Seems like
glamour is the buzzwords now! Well, what we are witnessing
is a cult mix of the Indian and global fashion sensibilities.
















DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 24

DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 25

HOT TRENDS








WINNER WHITES



he white family Padukone to veteran Rekha – silvery
of white, off- whites have found great many admirers
Twhite, cream, lately. Channel white saree trend –
silver have emerged by infusing playful prints, motifs or
winners all the way in bright hues. A Lighter variation of this
the last few fashion combination – can be paired with an
seasons. As Indians, ornate blouse for a lovely yet subtle
we may not consider party effect. Additionally, white net
white appropriate for sarees in half and half designs or with
festive and celebratory heavy borders and laces are also great
occasions, but that choices for cocktail parties. Gauri
hasn’t deterred B-town Khan chose a dull silver embellished
queens from flaunting sari decorated with feathers, while
splendid white Shah Rukh Khan complemented
sarees. From Sonam her in a white sherwani with a dhoti
Kapoor to Deepika salwar to wear at one of the weddings.


FANCY FLORALS





loral designs are surely on the upswing. From sarees to
borders, pallus, lehengas, blouses – and accessories – flowers
Fare all over. Florals Sarees have a freshness that’s unmatched
– and are vibrant, girly and youthful. Floral prints, floral Kalamkari
designs, flowery embellishments and embroideries, spring seems
to have touched all sorts of party-wear and wedding sarees.
Incorporate feminine florals in your saree wardrobe this season in
as many ways as possible. Look like an ingénue straight out of an
YRF movie – when you drape white based chiffon with spring-hued
flowers scattered all over.



















DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 26

DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 27

bollywood









RICH INDIAN



HANDLOOMS



imeless, classy and evergreen – the lush Indian handloom
sarees have made a major come back, thanks to avid
Thandloom promoters, many brands and Indian silk handlooms
lovers like Vidya Balan and Rekha. Earlier thought of only as
grand wedding and bridal sarees, Kanjeevarams and Banarasis
donned lighter looks – and were seen at parties, film premiers and
award functions. Linen sarees, cotton silk sarees and other similar
trends are also on a revival route – thanks to Bollywood. In the
movie Kalank saw Alia embrace lot of the saree and stunning
the audiences. Alia Bhatt is known to wear ethnic ensembles with
pitch-perfection.Handloom however, do not imply silks always.












net





ell, this is one saree trend that promises to always stay
fresh in our wardrobes, considering it has been rocking the
Wfashion scene for years now – and is still going strong. Net
sarees take on embroideries and embellishments pretty nicely, and
create a demure, feminine base for designers to work their magic
on. Naturally, we, yet again, saw Bolly beauties flaunting their net
party-wear sarees in hoards. Combine this evergreen style with
other latest party-wear color or design trends to get a fashion edge,
this season. If you are not comfortable sporting an all-net drape,
pick a chic half and half sari, as this one hides the waist bumps
and flaws, while the pallu continues to bring in the sensuous flare

bollywood









RICH INDIAN



HANDLOOMS









































































DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 29

travel














SPAIN
AIN
SP
Dream a little pain encompasses a wide region

Dream in 2020 and topography, so the April climate
will depend on where you go, but
Sgenerally speaking, coastal areas
From Africa to the Americas, there are plenty which includes the Catalonian capital of
of things to do, see and experience in the Barcelona are balmy, enjoying temperatures
best places to travel in April. Like the other of around 20C/68F (brave travelers can just
11 months in the year, April is a superb time about enjoy sea-swimming). Further south,
to travel, if you know where the best places the beautiful Andalusia region is even warmer,
to travel in April are which you will. Take though still comfortable enough to explore
Taiwan, for example; It’s one of Asia’s best- on foot it’s pretty villages, like Frigiliana,
kept secrets, so you likely haven’t considered before the stifling heat of summer arrives.
it as a destination to be visited at the earliest
opportunity, but we strongly recommend you
reconsider that position and it’s especially
delightful in April. Or for something closer
to home, did you know Washington D.C.
becomes ablaze in color in April, with
beautiful cherry blossoms around every
corner? You do now. Keep reading for more
inspiration: We have you covered for ideas
this April.






STOCKHOLM
OCKHOLM
ST
his ridiculously stylish Swedish city,
spread across numerous islands
linked by over 50 bridges, is a delight
Tto visit in April: temperatures are still
chilly (7C/44F, so dress warmly) but days are
often bright and sunny and by the end of the
month have doubled in length (8 hours of
light) compared to the start of March. Other
than the views of the city itself, top attractions
include the Nobel Museum and Storkyrkan
Cathedral, a 13th-century masterpiece.


DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 30

WASHINGTON DC

hile Japan’s cherry SOUTH AFRICA
blossom season seems outh Africa’s capital enjoys
to grab most of the a temperate year-round
Wworld’s attention, climate, rarely dipping below
Washington D.C. has a pretty good S20C/68F or exceeding
one too, which typically spans late 30C/87F, and April usually hits the
March into early April. The best place sweet spot, right in the middle. Being
to see it is the Tidal Basin, where over
3,000 trees transform into radiant in the southern hemisphere means
blooms. The weather can be slightly the seasons are flipped, so this marks
unpredictable at this time of year, the start of autumn, which means the
swinging between cold rainy days air is a bit cooler, but the sea retains
and warm sunny ones, so keep an the summer heat for a while yet. If
eye on the forecast before you jet off. shark diving isn’t your cup of tea, try
hiking up Table Mountain instead,
or taking the ferry to Robben Island.
HAWAII

awaii enjoys beautiful
weather and comfortable
temperatures year-
Hround, with temperatures
reliably staying above 26C/79F
and below 31C/88F. April, however,
is a particularly pleasant time
to visit, slipping in between the
mainspring and summer vacation
seasons. The entire Hawaiian
TAIWAN
archipelago comprises over 100 T AIW AN
islands, and the top draws include
Maui, Oahu and Kauai.term t’s only a matter of time before
school breaks draw visitors from Taiwan starts enjoying the same
Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangkok, kind of popularity as its South-East
Dubai, and other parts of Asia. Asian neighbors of Philippines,
IVietnam and Thailand: this
island is an absolute jewel for curious
travelers, with its incredibly diverse
BELIZE landscapes and culture-packed cities,
full of quirky charms (did you know
the garbage trucks blare out classical
elize may not have much music on their weekly rounds?). April
landmass, but what it lacks in is mild, with temperatures sitting
quantity it more than makes firmly between 20-23C/68-74F,
up for in quality. It boasts its perfect for soaking up world-class
Bvery own barrier reef (second trekking trails and stunning beaches.
only in size to Australia’s more famous
one), which among other things is where
you’ll find the iconic Great Blue Hole.
Inland you’ll find ancient Mayan ruins
(Xunantunich is the star of though show),
and it’s all pleasantly balmy in April.
amazing museums and galleries and
artisan shops without the hordes—
and finding deals during the “Janu-
ary Sales”—but bring layers against
what might be raw rainy weather.



DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 31

STARS REVEAL





Malaika Arora Disha Patani
























Malaika Arora shot to fame with the song Chaiyya Ever since Mohit Suri announced a sequel to his
Chaiyya back in 1998. She feels that though there much loved Ek Villain, titled Ek Villain 2 with John
is a trend of remixes these days, the AR Rahman Abraham and Aditya Roy Kapur playing the villains,
composition is one of those numbers that simply fans just can’t contain their excitement. Now, giving
shouldn’t be touched. out yet another interesting casting detail, filmmaker
The song Chaiyya Chaiyya, sung by Sukhwinder Mohit Suri has confirmed to rope in Disha Patani as
Singh and Sapna Awasthi, for the Mani Rathnam film the film’s leading lady alongside John and Aditya.
Dil Se is an all-time favourite dance number of most While fans were in love with Disha and Aditya’s
people. Its video featured Malaika and superstar chemistry in the recently released Malang, which too
Shah Rukh Khan matching steps atop a train, and was directed by Suri, it certainly will be interesting
continues to be popular. to see the dynamics between the trio. Opening up
Malaika recently danced to the number, asked about what made him sign Disha in yet another high
about it, Malaika said, “When you play that song, octane action film, Mohit has revealed to Mumbai
you can’t help but get up and dance. It is an iconic Mirror saying, “Disha is the first heroine who walked
song. When I shot the song, Geeta (Kapur) was up to me and said, ‘I want to do more action, beat
assisting Farah (Khan) at that time. I used to study up people, perform stunts… kick some butt. Just the
under Terence (Lewis), Geeta assisted me on that way boys do it in your films. I want to be the hero’.
dance. It was nice. We felt that ‘let’s just go for it’.” That’s when I asked her if she would do the Ek Villain
sequel and she was game.”
But there’s one thing she would like to point out
about recreations. “In today’s day and age there is It is no secret now that Ek Villain 2 is rumoured to
a constant trend of remixes. There are a few songs have two leading ladies. While Mohit has confirmed
that I think you should never touch. They are iconic. Disha to be one of them, it will be interesting to see
There must be five or 10 songs over the years that who is roped in as the second lead. Meanwhile, a
you can pull out. Chaiyya Chaiyya is one of them. certain source has revealed to the publication that
Don’t tamper with it, just let the original be and that’s Disha is in fact paired opposite John and not Aditya.
how it should be,” she said. Revealing the reason behind the casting coup, the
source further said, “The makers are trying to give
She doesn’t have anything against recreations the film a different twist by pairing them, considering
though. “I think some of the remixes are fantastic she was opposite Aditya in their last film. Disha will
and go with today’s age and kids, but yeah, there be seen doing some heavy-duty stunts as well. The
are certain things you should not tamper with like hunt for a second leading lady is still on.”
The Godfather or Mother India are iconic films. You
should just let them be,” she shared.


DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 32

STARS REVEAL INVEST IN





Malaika Arora Disha Patani
REAL ESTATE

&

MAKE DOUBLE DIGIT RETURNS*















Allen sports village Marriott resort
Malaika Arora shot to fame with the song Chaiyya Ever since Mohit Suri announced a sequel to his
Chaiyya back in 1998. She feels that though there much loved Ek Villain, titled Ek Villain 2 with John
is a trend of remixes these days, the AR Rahman Abraham and Aditya Roy Kapur playing the villains,
composition is one of those numbers that simply fans just can’t contain their excitement. Now, giving
shouldn’t be touched. out yet another interesting casting detail, filmmaker
The song Chaiyya Chaiyya, sung by Sukhwinder Mohit Suri has confirmed to rope in Disha Patani as
Singh and Sapna Awasthi, for the Mani Rathnam film the film’s leading lady alongside John and Aditya.
Dil Se is an all-time favourite dance number of most While fans were in love with Disha and Aditya’s
people. Its video featured Malaika and superstar chemistry in the recently released Malang, which too THAKKAR
Shah Rukh Khan matching steps atop a train, and was directed by Suri, it certainly will be interesting Mustang square
continues to be popular. to see the dynamics between the trio. Opening up
Malaika recently danced to the number, asked about what made him sign Disha in yet another high DEVELOPERS OUR SERVICES
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a constant trend of remixes. There are a few songs have two leading ladies. While Mohit has confirmed
that I think you should never touch. They are iconic. Disha to be one of them, it will be interesting to see
There must be five or 10 songs over the years that who is roped in as the second lead. Meanwhile, a
you can pull out. Chaiyya Chaiyya is one of them. certain source has revealed to the publication that
Don’t tamper with it, just let the original be and that’s Disha is in fact paired opposite John and not Aditya.
how it should be,” she said. Revealing the reason behind the casting coup, the
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DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 33

MADHURI’S MUSINGS
Love, Life and Learning

in the Time of Corona vocabulary. In the 1300’s, Venice was the first
city in the world to enforce a quarantine to curb
the bubonic plague. Travelers visiting Venice
had to be isolated for “quaranta” (forty) days,
goodreads and most of all, offers the gift of Hope. Hope
hence where we derive the word “quarantine”.
History gives us a timeless moral to learn from


is the rope that connects the present moment
to the future. We need to hold on to the rope
of hope and not give –up.
LEARNING. What are some lessons we are
learning that will aid humanity’s progress?





Today, we stand on the edge of time, embracing Here are some from my thoughts:
a sacred pause… Airports, and college
campuses have become ghost towns; buzzing COLLECTIVE COMPASSION: Covid-19
has activated the compassion compass of
shopping malls and restaurants appear to be humanity beyond race, color or age; to open
deserted lands. It almost feels surreal, like we our hearts and feel the pain and suffering of
are characters in a historical novel or even a families directly affected, including healthcare
science fiction movie with numerous conspiracy
theories floating around. workers in the frontlines, placing their lives
at risk. It has cultivated a sense of social
responsibility and self-sacrifice in the best
Corona, derived from the Latin word meaning interests of the higher good.
“crown”, also refers to the aura that surrounds
the sun. Ironically, the corona virus has rapidly
struck the entire world right from the crown of BEAUTY OF EMPATHY: For many of us,
our beings, physically infecting some and taking being restricted to our homes without the
away the breath of life, whilst mentally and freedom to step-out or feeling pressured to
emotionally attacking many more. buy groceries in advance to tide over the social
distancing period is a luxury in itself. Empathy
Yes, Corona has been a collective wake-up call, is switching perspectives and thinking about
forcing us to stay home and withdraw into our people with no homes, no space and no funds
own cocoons. With most of us operating out to purchase. It does alter our perceptions and
of our comfort zones, juggling work, home and that is the beauty of empathy.
homeschooling, this is also a time to reflect and
learn from this crisis and even grow from this BACK TO THE BASICS: Corona is taking
experience. In many ways, we are returning to us back to the basics, to perfecting hygiene
self and returning to Source. practices as sacred rituals that protect us. We
need to keep enhancing our immune systems
Looking back at history, the world has seen and renewing our health as a good form of
plagues, recessions and periods of darkness; defense. By the end of the Corona crisis, I am
only to be followed by renewal, restoration and sure we can all author a book “Zen and the
light. Some Corona trivia that I learnt from my Art of Handwashing”!
English teacher and mentor is the history of THE EQUALIZER: Corona has not
the word “quarantine’, now part of our daily distinguished between the royals, the leaders


DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 34

or the common person. Abundance is not just in our control, with sense and sensitivity that will
monetary wealth, but having inexhaustible help to build strength and serenity.
reserves of strength to dip into in times of crisis
to help all around us in whatever possible way. FINDING MAGIC IN THE MUNDANE:
Creativity rules in times of crisis. No virus can Whether its music that stirs your soul, cooking
extinguish the spark of innovation. The creative delicious new recipes, planting seeds for a flower
fire is not just ignited, but continues to burn, garden, or watching the golden sunrise, finding
giving light, positivity and new solutions to living magic in the mundane will reinforce the simple
and working. joys and pleasures of living.


POWER OF COMMUNITY: We are inter- TREASURE TIME TODAY: We cannot anticipate
connected threads in the tapestry of life. When future outcomes .Embrace the current moment
we come together, collaboratively weaving and gift of the present. Use this time wisely, staying
our energy, efforts and creativity, the power of grounded with faith and not overwhelmed with
community is exponential. This is the power that fear.
when combined with a cause is paving the way
for the future. Be forever thankful for everyone playing his or her
part to keep the boat afloat. Whether a parent
RESOURCE OPTIMIZATION: Life’s juggling work and homeschooling, educators

resources are too precious to waste, whether it continuing to (remotely) keep the spark of learning
is the resources of time, money or the natural alive in students, essential workers showing up every
elements. Corona is teaching us to right size day to keep the wheel of life moving, tech wizards
and rebalance our lives. that keep us connected, healthcare workers who
are our saviors and warriors in protective armor!
LOVE in the time of Corona… Global Citizenship could not be more real.
Corona is reinforcing that we are all part of one
It all comes back to LOVE. Love for life, love shared humanity, one gigantic quantum field. We
for the higher self, love for humanity, and love will slowly emerge from our cocoons into a new
for learning as we all continue to evolve as a earth. Old structures and paradigms are breaking,
species. We are in our own way, guardians of and we are walking into the future with a new
the earth and play our parts in nurturing the self, framework for living and learning. Economic
family and environment we impact. borders are not falling apart but coming together.
There is no “I”, “Me” or “My country”. It is “We”,
NO MAN IS AN ISLAND. We are social “Our Earth” and “One Global Village”, and we
beings and we can build bridges and bonds that are all better together.
connect us even when physically separated. Yes,
we miss the hugs and happy hours. But this is Live from a space of love and there will no longer be
also a test for the strength and authenticity of a void. Love is what will lead us into the light of a new
relationships that stand strong. morning – to rise, shine and fulfill our life’s purpose
whatever that may be. Lord Shiva” to try to unravel
A TIME FOR SOUL-SEARCHING. This is a the mystical enigma that surrounds Mahadev.
time to look within, stay authentic, and discover
what makes your heart sing and your spirit soar.
Share your talents with the world, which is what
you bring to the picnic table of life.
Surrender with strength and serenity to the ebb
and flow of life; learning to let go of what is not




DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 35

Kajol, Shruti Hassan and Neena Kulkarni-actresses belonging to different
generations have worked together in the short film Devi. They insist that real
empowerment will happen when women unite and share sisterhood, and catfight
becomes an outdated concept.
Directed by Priyanka Banerjee, Devi revolves around a group of rape victims, from
different socio-economic strata, and how they unite to fight a heinous crime like
rape. While gender-based discrimination has been happening for ages, it is also
true that women often engage in catfights.
Kajol, who portrays a rape-victim housewife in Devi, felt, “Catfight is imposed in
our mind by society to create insecurity among us, women. I find it is nonsense.
When it comes to fights and arguments among women, I would say it is only
natural that no two human beings have to get along with each other. Not everyone
has to be my friend. That does not mean the person is my enemy or hater. It is high
time we women unite to celebrate sisterhood because catfights are outdated.”
kajol The film also features Neha Dhupia, Mukta Barve, Sandhya Mhatre, Rama Joshi,
Yashaswini Dayama and Shivani Raghuvanshi.



In his last release, Malang, Aditya Roy Kapur went all out
to look his best on the screen. While talking about the
efforts he took to look his beefiest best in the film, Aditya
mentioned that as much as he loves to be on the screen,
he would also like to try his hand at an off-screen job.
The actor, who’s now busy working on the sequel of Ek
Villain, says that he would like to give filmmaking a shot
someday. However, unlike his brother, Siddharth Roy
Kapur, who produces movies, he would like to direct a
film. He says, “I don’t think I am fit to get into production,
but I want to direct. The more I act, the more I realize how
much effort goes into directing a film. It is a pretty tough
aditya roy job. But until I find a story that I am eager to tell, I won’t

kapoor get into direction.”

Ever since Bob Biswas was announced, it has been in
the news. Starring Abhishek Bachchan and Chitrangda
Singh, the film’s first schedule was shot in Kolkata. And
recent reports say that the actress is learning Bengali
for her role and even taking help from a language
coach to ensure that her dialect sounds as authentic
as possible. While not much is known about her role
in the upcoming crime thriller, the fact that she is
learning Bengali suggests that her character could be
of a Bengali woman. Sources say that Chitrangda was
aware that she would be required to speak in Bengali
and is doing all that she can to nail her character. A
chitrangada friend in Kolkata is also said to be helping the actress
singh while a professional language coach is assisting her
with the nuances. Since Chitrangda has always liked
the language, learning it hasn’t been as difficult as she
thought it would be.
BOLLYWOOD In a recent interview, Chitrangda mentioned that she
was happy when she realized she would have to learn
Bengali for the film. Calling it one of her favorite
languages, she said that while she understood a bit
BONANAZA of Bangla earlier, she was much more fluent in it now
and is glad that the film gave her a chance to learn
the language.




DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 36

Kajol, Shruti Hassan and Neena Kulkarni-actresses belonging to different
generations have worked together in the short film Devi. They insist that real
empowerment will happen when women unite and share sisterhood, and catfight
becomes an outdated concept.
Directed by Priyanka Banerjee, Devi revolves around a group of rape victims, from
different socio-economic strata, and how they unite to fight a heinous crime like
rape. While gender-based discrimination has been happening for ages, it is also
true that women often engage in catfights.
Kajol, who portrays a rape-victim housewife in Devi, felt, “Catfight is imposed in
our mind by society to create insecurity among us, women. I find it is nonsense.
When it comes to fights and arguments among women, I would say it is only
natural that no two human beings have to get along with each other. Not everyone
has to be my friend. That does not mean the person is my enemy or hater. It is high
time we women unite to celebrate sisterhood because catfights are outdated.”
kajol The film also features Neha Dhupia, Mukta Barve, Sandhya Mhatre, Rama Joshi,
Yashaswini Dayama and Shivani Raghuvanshi.



In his last release, Malang, Aditya Roy Kapur went all out
to look his best on the screen. While talking about the
efforts he took to look his beefiest best in the film, Aditya
mentioned that as much as he loves to be on the screen,
he would also like to try his hand at an off-screen job.
The actor, who’s now busy working on the sequel of Ek
Villain, says that he would like to give filmmaking a shot
someday. However, unlike his brother, Siddharth Roy
Kapur, who produces movies, he would like to direct a
film. He says, “I don’t think I am fit to get into production,
but I want to direct. The more I act, the more I realize how
much effort goes into directing a film. It is a pretty tough
aditya roy job. But until I find a story that I am eager to tell, I won’t

kapoor get into direction.”

Ever since Bob Biswas was announced, it has been in
the news. Starring Abhishek Bachchan and Chitrangda
Singh, the film’s first schedule was shot in Kolkata. And
recent reports say that the actress is learning Bengali
for her role and even taking help from a language
coach to ensure that her dialect sounds as authentic
as possible. While not much is known about her role
in the upcoming crime thriller, the fact that she is
learning Bengali suggests that her character could be
of a Bengali woman. Sources say that Chitrangda was
aware that she would be required to speak in Bengali
and is doing all that she can to nail her character. A
chitrangada friend in Kolkata is also said to be helping the actress
singh while a professional language coach is assisting her
with the nuances. Since Chitrangda has always liked
the language, learning it hasn’t been as difficult as she
thought it would be. VALID TIL : 05/15/2020
BOLLYWOOD In a recent interview, Chitrangda mentioned that she
was happy when she realized she would have to learn
Bengali for the film. Calling it one of her favorite
languages, she said that while she understood a bit
BONANAZA of Bangla earlier, she was much more fluent in it now
and is glad that the film gave her a chance to learn
the language.
VALID TIL : 05/15/2020


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Regional BOLLYWOOD MOVIES THAT CAPTURE


THE ARTISTIC BEAUTY AND


CULTURE OF KOLKATA



The city of joy has always had a very close connection with Bollywood. Despite the fact that ‘Bombay’ has
always been the hub for cinema, filmmakers venture outside for the real essence of their stories and Kolkata
happens to be their favorite cultural destination.
The cultural capital of Bengal is a hub for art and heritage and we are not surprised why the directors love
this place so much. Here are 10 movies that have been shot in Kolkata and we can’t help but find ourselves
falling in love with this place where food, culture, and art dwell in every nook and corner.





Yuva Parineeta Kahaani



















1 2 3

Mani Ratnam’s political drama that was Pradeep Sarkar’s musical romantic Directed by Sujoy Ghosh, this mystery
originally named as ‘Howrah Bridge’ drama was based on Sarat Chandra thriller revolving around a pregnant
brings three stories together on Kolkata’s Chattopadhyay’s 1914 Bengali novella woman looking for her missing husband
famed Howrah Bridge. The film featured and set in Kolkata. A major chunk of the in Kolkata during the Durga Puja festival
Ajay Devgn, Abhishek Bachchan and movie was shot in Calcutta, specifically, is certainly Bollywood’s best collab with
Vivek Oberoi in lead. The story revolved at the James Princep Memorial. The Kolkata. The crew followed guerrilla-
around the three of them entering politics movie manages to bring the heart and filmmaking techniques on Kolkata’s city
and facing its consequences. soul of Calcutta on the big screen with streets to avoid attracting attention.
Vidya Balan and Saif Ali Khan’s brilliant
acting.

Barfi!

Director Anurag Basu’s comedy-drama about a deaf-mute simpleton was shot and based
partly in 1970s Calcutta. The Ranbir Kapoor-starrer is a visual treat owing to some of its beautiful
locations in Darjeeling. The presence of Howrah Bridge in various shots along with the trams
and ‘puchka’ reference, the movie gives you a quintessential Kolkata vibe.
Love Aaj Kal

Directed by Imtiaz Ali, this romantic comedy-drama has been shot in Kolkata. The scene
where Rishi Kapoor recalls meeting his lady love has been shot at Bonedi Bari in Rash Behari
4 Avenue. The movie talks about true love in today’s time with Calcutta being one of the places
central to the storyline.
DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 38

Regional BOLLYWOOD MOVIES THAT CAPTURE Lootera


THE ARTISTIC BEAUTY AND


CULTURE OF KOLKATA
O. Henry’s short story The Last Leaf was beautifully adapted by Director
Vikramaditya Motwane in this period romance, based onset in 1950s Calcutta.
The city of joy has always had a very close connection with Bollywood. Despite the fact that ‘Bombay’ has The Ranveer Singh and Sonakshi Sinha-starrer made INR 27 crore at the box
always been the hub for cinema, filmmakers venture outside for the real essence of their stories and Kolkata office and gave us some beautiful music that added on to the Kolkata vibe of the
happens to be their favorite cultural destination. movie.
The cultural capital of Bengal is a hub for art and heritage and we are not surprised why the directors love
this place so much. Here are 10 movies that have been shot in Kolkata and we can’t help but find ourselves 5
falling in love with this place where food, culture, and art dwell in every nook and corner.



Bullet Raja Gunday Detective Byomkesh
Yuva Parineeta Kahaani Bakshy

















6 7 8
1 2 3
A lot of scenes from Tigmanshu Directed by Ali Abbas Zafar this action Dibakar Banerjee’s mystery thriller on
Mani Ratnam’s political drama that was Pradeep Sarkar’s musical romantic Directed by Sujoy Ghosh, this mystery Dhulia’s action film were set and shot thriller was set in 1970s Calcutta and the legendary detective was set in then
originally named as ‘Howrah Bridge’ drama was based on Sarat Chandra thriller revolving around a pregnant in Kolkata. Starring Saif Ali Khan, told the story of two orphaned outlaws Calcutta during World War II. The film
brings three stories together on Kolkata’s Chattopadhyay’s 1914 Bengali novella woman looking for her missing husband Sonakshi Sinha and Jimmy Shergill, played by Ranveer Singh and Arjun follows the first adventure of Byomkesh
famed Howrah Bridge. The film featured and set in Kolkata. A major chunk of the in Kolkata during the Durga Puja festival it made Rs32 crore in box office Kapoor. Young Bala and Bikram Bakshi as a private detective and is
Ajay Devgn, Abhishek Bachchan and movie was shot in Calcutta, specifically, is certainly Bollywood’s best collab with collections. The movie showcases the become gun carriers and coal bandits, extensively filmed in Kolkata. This film is
Vivek Oberoi in lead. The story revolved at the James Princep Memorial. The Kolkata. The crew followed guerrilla- protagonist’s romance with Kolkata as ultimately growing up to become the a treat to the eyes of every Kolkattan in
around the three of them entering politics movie manages to bring the heart and filmmaking techniques on Kolkata’s city the backdrop. most powerful goons of Calcutta. The the city and elsewhere alike.
and facing its consequences. soul of Calcutta on the big screen with streets to avoid attracting attention. directed film made INR 78 crore at the
Vidya Balan and Saif Ali Khan’s brilliant box office.
acting.

Barfi! Piku

Director Anurag Basu’s comedy-drama about a deaf-mute simpleton was shot and based Directed by Shoojit Sircar, this comedy-drama was the story of a father and daughter who
partly in 1970s Calcutta. The Ranbir Kapoor-starrer is a visual treat owing to some of its beautiful embark on a journey from Delhi to Kolkata. It is short-tempered Piku Banerjee, her grumpy,
locations in Darjeeling. The presence of Howrah Bridge in various shots along with the trams aging father Bhashkor and Rana Chaudhary, who is stuck between the father-daughter duo,
and ‘puchka’ reference, the movie gives you a quintessential Kolkata vibe. as they embark on a journey to life and also, Kolkata. Beautifully shot at the Nonapukur Tram
depot and some parts of North Kolkata, this film gives us a beautiful insight into this city of
Love Aaj Kal joy.
Directed by Imtiaz Ali, this romantic comedy-drama has been shot in Kolkata. The scene
where Rishi Kapoor recalls meeting his lady love has been shot at Bonedi Bari in Rash Behari 9
4 Avenue. The movie talks about true love in today’s time with Calcutta being one of the places
central to the storyline.
DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 39

Gujrati Stage Play



Executive Producer
Vaishali Thakkar & Moody Akhtar














































































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Gujrati Stage Play



Executive Producer
Vaishali Thakkar & Moody Akhtar














































































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Gujrati Stage Play




Executive Producer
Vaishali Thakkar & Moody Akhtar














































































DesiPages DFW | April 2020 VOL 15 | 42

Hunger Mitao





Executive Producer
Vaishali Thakkar & Moody Akhtar















































































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Financial growth can be accomplished Exit of Saturn from your sign will bring Time to evaluate past performance and
T
F
inancial growth can be accomplished
Exit of Saturn from your sign will bring
ime to evaluate past performance and
through foreign projects. Health will many positive changes this month. Life form plans for the future. Singles will
through foreign projects. Health will
many positive changes this month. Life
form plans for the future. Singles will
be fabulous with routine medical care. with your spouse will be quite turbulent. be successful in getting love partners
be fabulous with routine medical care.
in getting love partners
be successful
with your spouse will be quite turbulent.
with their communication skills. Health
Family affairs will be quite congenial. Career growth is based on completion with their communication skills. Health
F
Career growth is based on completion
amily affairs will be quite congenial.
between
married
Compatibility
Compatibility between married of foreign projects. P rudence will will be excellent, and friends and family
of foreign projects. Prudence will
will be excellent, and friends and family
govern your
will help career development. Money
spending habits. Health
couples will be amazing. Singles can
couples will be amazing . Singles can govern your spending habits. Health will help career development. Money
will be good.
flow will be generous.
attract partners with their magnetism. will be good. flow will be generous.
attract partners with their magnetism.
Social circle will provide love
in their
Spirituality will play a major role in your Social circle will provide love Singles are looking for fun in their
Singles are looking for fun
Spirituality will play a major role in your
opportunities for singles. Health
life this month. Singles are looking for
life this month. Singles are looking for opportunities for singles. Health love partnerships. F amily atmosphere
love partnerships. Family atmosphere
will be genial. Career obligations will
spiritual compatibility in love mates. will show radical improvement. will be genial. Career obligations will
spiritual compatibility in love mates.
improvement.
show
radical
will
will be marvelous.
Professional growth will be splendid.
be demanding. Money flow will be
rofessional
P
Health
Health will be marvelous. Professional P rofessional growth will be splendid. be demanding . Money flow will be
inancial
development will be splendid. F inances Finances will be very volatile. Financial sluggish. Health will be tentative and
inances will
F
sluggish. Health will be tentative and
development will be splendid. Finances
be very
volatile. F
will be cheerful.
acumen will be excellent. Family issues
requires more attention. Students will
will be cheerful. acumen will be excellent. F amily issues requires more attention. Students will
will be problematic. have no problem with their studies.
have no problem with their studies.
will be problematic.
Married life will be replete with passion Singles will find love among colleagues F Forward momentum of planets will
Married life will be replete with passion
orward momentum of planets will
Singles will find love among colleagues
help your growth prospects. Enterprise
at the workplace. Health can be
and aggression. Singles will find love
and aggression. Singles will find love at the workplace. Health can be help your growth prospects. Enterprise
with partners of different cultures. maintained with enough relaxation. and good communication will help a
with partners of different cultures.
and good communication will help a
maintained with enough relaxation.
Good health will help you to be F inances will be volatile, and more marital bliss. Family environment will
marital bliss. F
help you
to be
Good health will
Finances will be volatile, and more
amily environment will
positive and cheerful. F inances are effort is necessary. Career prospects be harmonious. Career development
. Career prospects
positive and cheerful. Finances are
effort is necessary
be harmonious. Career development
T
boosted with the help of friends and
ravel activities are
are not
is helped by the social circle.
very clear
.
boosted with the help of friends and are not very clear. Travel activities are is helped by the social circle.
quite beneficial.
family members. Career prospects are
family members. Career prospects are quite beneficial.
Saturn will bring about major
Saturn will bring about major Marital harmony will be disturbed Money will come from windfalls and
Marital harmony will be disturbed
Money will come from windfalls and
transformations in life. Married life will
transformations in life. Married life will with a lot of bickering due to financial speculative investments. Planetary
investments.
Planetary
with a lot of bickering due to financial
speculative
be full of fun. Health requires normal
aspects are not favorable for marital
matters. Emotional health will be
be full of fun. Health requires normal matters. Emotional health will be aspects are not favorable for marital
more important. Saturn will bring you
exercise and healthy food. Money flow more important. Saturn will bring you bliss. Career growth will not be
exercise and healthy food. Money flow
bliss. Career growth will not be
splendid cash flow
will be excellent till the 20th. Career
. Health will be delightful.
. Students will excel
encouraging
will be excellent till the 20th. Career splendid cash flow. Students will excel encouraging. Health will be delightful.
growth will be quite good, and all the
Family issues will be very much
growth will be quite good, and all the in their academic pursuits. Career F amily issues will be very much
in their academic pursuits.
Career
prospects are bleak.
obstructions will be eliminated. prospects are bleak. disturbing and negative.
disturbing and negative.
obstructions will be eliminated.
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A certain darkness is needed

to see the stars.






“The greatest fear in the world is the opinion of others, and the moment you

are unafraid of the crowd, you are no longer a sheep, you become a lion. A
great roar arises in your heart, the roar of freedom.”


“If you love a person, you accept the total person. With all the defects.
Because those defects are a part of the person. Never try to change a person
you love, because the very effort to change says that you love half, and the
other half of the person is not accepted. When you love, you simply love.”


“I live my life based on 2 principles. One, I live as if today was my last day

on earth. Two, I live today as if I am going to live forever.”


-OSHO-.
















































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