13012024-LSTL-01.qxd 1/12/2024 11:28 PM Page 1 c m y b KALKI 2898 AD ON MAY 9 Filmmaker Nag Ashwin has announced that his upcoming mythology-inspired scifi film Kalki 2898 AD, starring Prabhas, is all set to release on May 9. The film also features ace performers like Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Prabhas, Deepika Padukone and Disha Patani. TRIBUNE Clear take Life Superstar Salman Khan has said that as an actor his biggest and only job is to entertain people thoroughly. Salman’s latest release Tiger 3 is now streaming on a digital platform. LUDHIANA | SATURDAY | 13 JANUARY 2024 Make it a vibrant affair Gurnaaz Kaur I T’s not just the first festival of the year, Lohri is so much more. It’s a sign that harsh winter days are coming to an end soon and spring is about to make its way. It’s a traditional welcome of longer days, a celebration of harvest season with bonfire, dhol beats, bhangra, gidda and Punjabi cuisine! As we embrace the last phase of cold weather, let’s do it in style much like our favourite Bollywood stars. For this vibrant festival, celebrity designer Khushi Shah of Shanti Banaras, believes you need to add your own special touch to the outfit. “It’s a time to connect your past, present and future…a celebration of our culture and traditions. More than just about looking good, our focus is about feeling a part of something bigger, something that’s been passed down through generations. While designing for celebrities or anyone for that matter, we blend our handwoven heritage with the lively spirit of the festival.” So, whether it is an Anarkali suit, a lehenga, salwar kameez or saree, Khushi’s tip for the special day is to, “Choose handloom From traditional suits to shining jewellery to stylish footwear, ace your Lohri look with these tips by designers who have made many a celebrity shine Mrunal Thakur rocks in a creation by Fizzy Goblet Foot comfort Sonakshi Sinha sports a dress by Arpita Mehta pieces woven with time-honoured techniques. Silks that shimmer like molten gold, cottons whispering tales of comfort and brocades singing festive grandeur — let your fabric echo the enduring spirit of Lohri.” Jewel in the crown Lohri is all about warmth, togetherness and the joy of being connected to our roots. And we can’t miss a touch of Dua Lipa is dating British actor Callum Turner ki necklace can elevate the look. Balancing the jewellery with the outfit is key, ensuring that the overall appearance is harmonious and in sync with the festive vibe of Lohri. Incorporating traditional symbols like maang tikas can also add cultural significance to your ensemble, making your Lohri celebration even more special,” says Gautam Soni, managing director of The House of MBj. the jewel to the region’s favourite festival, which symbolises prosperity and community spirit. “When styling with fine jewellery for Lohri, consider pieces that complement your traditional attire. Gold, diamond or kundanpolki jewellery is a popular choice, adding a touch of elegance and richness to the ensemble. Heavy earrings, jhumkas or chandbalis with bangles, and a statement pol- Any opportunity to dress is an opportunity to experiment, believes designer Aprajita Toor and she gives some cool ideas for your footwear options. “The flames of Lohri welcome light and vibrancy to the year, and the significance runs much deeper than just trends and fashion. However, one can hardly forget the hot pink ensemble Preity Zinta donned in the film Veer Zaara, a visual representation of the magnitude of celebration. It would be interesting to see new takes on such classic styles. Dancing and celebrating to your contentment requires comfortable footwear and outfits like the traditional Patiala suits, which can be mixed with dhoti or harem pants, paired up with sneakers or gladiators.” Abhay Deol in an outfit designed by Aprajita Toor Kajol Devgan in a saree by Archana Jaju mence production in mid2024, promises to be a thrilling ride that present Vir in a completely new light. Vir Das, who has conquered the comedy world with his wit and charm, expresses his excitement about this new chapter in his career, “I’ve always believed in challenging myself and exploring new horizons. Comedy will always be my first love, but the thrill of stepping into the action genre is a whole new adventure. The prep is intense, and I am diving headfirst into this exciting project. I can’t wait to bring something fresh and exhilarating to the audience.” Celebs recollect fond memories of Lohri Sheetal Love lanes Singer Dua Lipa is dating British actor Callum Turner. The singer and the actor were spotted dancing at an after-party for the premiere of his show Masters of The Air in LA on Wednesday night, sparking speculation they were dating. Now a source has confirmed the news. “It’s new, but they’re mad about each other,” the insider said. Even though it’s early days, they’re clearly serious enough for her to come to his big event. “She was at the premiere to support him,” the source said. The Dance the Night singer appears to have no other connection to the Apple TV+ limited series. In addition to the war series, which is produced by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg, Turner is also starring in George Clooney’s latest, The Boys in the Boat, right now. He previously appeared in two instalments of Fantastic Beasts series. — IANS one of the most influential, trailblazing artistes the world has ever known.” The co-executors of Michael Jackson’s estate, John Branca and John McClain, will also produce the film, which may affect how Michael presents the c m y b FAMILY AFFAIR Lo aa gayi Lohri ve and with it comes many other festivals celebrated in different parts of India to mark the New Year, such as Makar Sakranti, Bihu and Pongal. We talk to famous personalities know how they will be celebrating the onset of 2024. Mom and I Simi Chahal, actress All my festivities revolve around my mother, so wherever she will be, I will celebrate at that place. If I don’t have her around, no festival feels complete. Of triumphs & tragedies Release date of Michael Jackson’s biopic out Sonam Kapoor in a Mahesh Notandass creation Naqiyah Haji, who plays the character of Nikki in Star Bharat’s show Shaitani Rasmein, is in a happy space. She says, “I always wanted to be an actress and started my career as a model. I participated in many fashion contests, after which I worked in ad films with famous Bollywood actors like Anushka Sharma and Tiger Shroff. And then came along the show show Shaitaani Rasmein. Laughter, music… celebration Vir Das set to star in his first-ever film Michael Jackson’s biopic, Michael is all set to release on big screens on April 18, 2025. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the biopic stars the late King of Pop’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, in his first major role. Lionsgate will release the film domestically, while Universal will handle international distribution. The shooting of the film will begin on January 22. The official synopsis for the film, produced by Bohemian Rhapsody’s Graham King and written by John Logan, read, “Michael will bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became the King of Pop. The film presents his triumphs and tragedies on an epic cinematic scale, from his human side and personal struggles to his undeniable creative genius, exemplified by his most iconic performances. As never before, audiences will experience an inside look into An act of faith Naqiyah Haji speaks about her journey It’s actiontime! Vir Das, the Emmy Awardwinning actor-comedian, celebrated for his unparalleled comic flair and international acclaim, is set to venture into uncharted territory with his maiden foray into the action film genre. Recognised as the foremost Indian comedian on the global stage, Vir Das is gearing up to redefine his artistic boundaries and capture the imagination of audiences worldwide with his debut in an adrenaline-pumping action film. The untitled action film project is currently in the preparatory stages, with Vir Das set to essay the lead role. The film, expected to com- Sonali Bendre shines in a dress by Payal Khandwala singer’s various claims of child sexual abuse made during his career and after his death. Jackson had rejected charges of child sexual assault, and he was acquitted of child molestation in 2003. Jackson died in 2009 at the age of 50, and he always maintained his innocence. Fuqua just directed his third Equaliser film, starring Denzel Washington, for Sony Pictures. His last film, Will Smith’s enslavement thriller Emancipation, was released by Apple in 2022. Michael will take up the date previously held by The Exorcist: Deceiver, which was withdrawn from Universal’s planned theatrical schedule following the announcement that director David Gordon Green had left the project. The Exorcist sequel was initially scheduled for April 18, 2025, but has been put on hold indefinitely as Universal and Blumhouse look for a new director. — ANI Maharashtian way Jashan Bhumkar, singer This Makar Sankranti, I plan to celebrate in a traditional Maharashtrian style, immersed in cultural richness and festive joy. Starting the day with a colourful rangoli at my doorstep, I’ll engage in kite flying with friends and family. Embracing my Maharashtrian roots, we celebrate Makar Sankranti at home with the philosophy ‘til gul ghya, goad goad bola’. However, being a singer, the sweetness is not just restricted to words but also to music! I plan to celebrate the festival with traditional Marathi songs. Bonfire and music Ankita Saili, actress We’re hosting a traditional Punjabi-style bonfire party, complete with revari, gajjak and yellow rice as our sweet indulgences. The night promises laughter, music and a celebration of tradition with close family as well as relatives. Fun with kids Sonia Mann, actress-model I will celebrate Lohri with children from my village. I always celebrate the festival and my birthday with them. Lohri is the celebration ❝something new and of beautiful, for instance your first Lohri as a couple, your child’s first Lohri and many such things. The fondest memory for me was to celebrate the birth of our daughter and her first Lohri. We make a bonfire and party together, as all members of the family and relatives join in for the holy occasion.❞ Geeta Basra, actress HAPPY CHILDHOOD is a ❝ Lohrifor meveryitspecial festival as brings back all the fond memories of childhood. We used to collect money from each home in our locality as children to celebrate this festival together in my home town, Batala. We used to invite a dholi and gather ladies from the society to sing songs. Every Lohri I long to visit Batala, as it is celebrated in the same way over there. ❞ Satinder Satti, actress-singer