Aishwarya Rai Bachchan - Festival de Cannes 2017 | Style Files
She came, she saw, and she conquered the red carpet. It was her sixteenth year at the Cannes, and boy! There was no stopping Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. The green eyed beauty has already created some serious social media frenzy, with her red carpet look from Day 1 becoming an instant hit on the internet. When she wasn't busy slaying it at the French Riviera with her gorgeousness, Mrs Bachchan spent quality time with her little princess - Aaradhya, who is already following Mama's footsteps quite closely and looked adorable in a custom Gauri & Nainika outfit.
Stepping out in one stunning look after another, Aishwarya proved why she is and will always be the undisputed queen. We have got all of Aishwarya's looks from Cannes 2017, right here! Pick your favourites, folks.
Day 1
Look 1 (Interviews)
Outfit: Yanina Fashion
Look 2
Outfit: Mark Bumgarner
Look 3 (red carpet)
Outfit: Michael Cinco
Jewels: Boucheron
Shoes: Ferragamo
Day 2
Look 1
Outfit: Ashi Studio
Look 2 (shoot)
Outfit: Georges Hobeika
Look 3 (Devdas Screening)
Outfit: Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla
Look 4 (red carpet)
Outfit: Ralph & Russo
Jewellery: Faidee
Look 5 (photo call)
Outfit: Monisha Jaising
The #DancebeeFashion Pick - This was a tough choice, since we had quite a few favourites. However, the dreamy couture ball gown by Filipino designer Michael Cinco on Day 1 wins hands down. I mean, just look at her! Aishwarya channeled her inner princess and brought the good ol' Cinderella story to life in the powder blue gown, as she posed like a pro, blew air kisses, gracefully walked and twirled in this gorgeous outfit. With minimal make up and straight hair, the overall look was a complete winner. BRB, while we try to wake up from our fairytale fashion dreams!
What are your favourite looks on Aishwarya Rai Bachchan this year?
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Deepika Padukone - Festival de Cannes 2017 | Style Files
As the 70th edition of Festival de Cannes kicked off earlier this week, we couldn't help but excitedly wait for our Indian divas to take over the red carpet. The fashion fever kicked off with Hollywood's favourite new darling - Deepika Padukone, who was back at the French Riviera after a few years (remember her debut in 2010, when she donned a white and gold Rohit Bal saree?) and this time, she was ready to create some serious waves. This year, she was welcomed as the new global brand ambassador for L'Oreal Paris. We take a look at all the outfits sported by the stunner, and also pick our favourites.
Day One
Look 1
Outfit: Johanna Ortiz
Shoes: Charlotte Olympia
Look 2 (interviews)
Outfit: Galvan London
Shoes: Christian Louboutin
Accessories: Messika Jewellery
Look 3 (red carpet)
Gown: Marchesa
Shoes: Jimmy Choo
Jewels: DeGrisogono
Day Two
Look 1 (interviews)
Dress: Solace London
Earrings: Elizabeth and James
Shoes: Christian Louboutin
Look 2
Dress: Balenciaga
Shoes: Christian Louboutin
Look 3 (red carpet)
Dress: Brandon Maxwell
Jewels: Degrisogono
Shoes: Chloe Gosselin
The #DancebeeFashion Pick - Undoubtedly, the red carpet Marchesa outfit on Day 1. Deepika carried that risquè gown with great confidence and walked out there to slay like a stunner. Ankle strap heels, deep berry lips, diamond jewellery and soft waves complimented her look really well.
What are your favourite looks on Deepika Padukone this year?
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Lakme Argan Oil Lip Color | Swatches & Review
Gah! I know this video has been delayed by a few weeks, but since most of you asked us to review the Lakme Absolute Argan Oil Lip Color range, I thought it was important for me to share this video as soon as I get back to the city (PS: I can't wait to share all my travel vlogs with you. Coming up super soon). So, here it is! A swatch + review video of Lakme's beautiful latest launch, which is part of their beauty statement for 2017 called - Liquid Gold.
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I have always been a very practical and realistic person - Ayushmann Khurrana | Exclusive Interview
There is no doubt about the fact that Ayushmann Khurrana is one of the finest artists that we have in the industry today. Over the years, Khurrana has worked hard and proved his mettle not just as an actor, but also as a successful singer, composer, host, writer among others. Right from his debut in the award winning Vicky Donor, Delhi ka munda Khurrana has consistently raised the bar for himself. After earning accolades for his performance in Dum Laga Ke Haisha, and winning hearts with popular singles like Yahin hoon main and Ik Vaari, Khurrana is all set to wow the audience in the avatar of a writer - Abhimanyu Roy. As Meri Pyaari Bindu releases today, we catch up with Ayushmann Khurrana, who discusses films, family and life in an exclusive interview with Diary of a Dancebee. Excerpts from a candid chat:
You are seen playing a Bengali character in Meri Pyaari Bindu. What were the aspects or nuances that you picked up for this role?
I strongly believe that I am half Bengali! I have a Punjabi body with a Bengali soul (smiles). This time, when I went to Kolkata for Meri Pyaari Bindu, I discovered certain things about the city. First was Rabindra Sangeet. I heard some of the songs and have started liking it. I have also read many Bengali novels. Among them, Chokher Bali is my favourite. I have also noticed that in Kolkata two cities exist. The night life of Kolkata is very active. Park Street is so alive throughout the night. Then, there is North Kolkata, where one can see the old heritage buildings standing for hundreds of years. People over there don't want to change anything, as they want to preserve the heritage and culture.
How come you haven't gone behind the mic for this film?
I knew this from the beginning that I am not going to sing in this film. Here, the singer is Parineeti aka Bindu. Even in Dum Laga Ke Haisha, I haven't sung at all. There, I was a big Kumar Sanu fan, but never sang. Sometimes, I truly believe the singer should take a backseat, and the actor should come in the forefront.
I strongly believe that I am half Bengali! I have a Punjabi body with a Bengali soul
Tell us a little bit about your affair with the music.
My passion for music started off with pure, filmy songs. I remember the first Hindi film I watched on big screen was Tezaab. I used to keep chanting 'Mohini Mohini' for a long time. That was the time when we used to hire Colour TV and VCR to watch movies at home. Then, I watched Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak and Baazigar. Songs from these films impressed me. Later on, when I went to college, I had some western music influence as well. At home, all of us would listen to old hindi film music. In fact, my grandmother used to sing at the Gurdwara, so that influence was definitely there. Then, I listened to Bade Ghulam Ali Khan and Ghulam Mustafa. My range developed in a very broad way.
How have you dealt with the failures in your professional life?
I have always been a very practical and realistic person. I detach myself from a film after the release. Also, I know failure is the best teacher anyone could have. In the last five years, I have learnt a lot and all that has certainly helped me grow. Plus, I have worked in two National Award winning films -- Vicky Donor and Dum Laga Ke Haisha. So, that feels great!
Failure is the best teacher anyone could have
From Vicky Donor to Meri Pyaari Bindu, you have created your own space in the industry. How do you look at your journey so far?
I guess, you need to play in your own space within the industry. Do something which people are not expecting you to do. I am a commercial film hero, but my focus has always been on doing something different. Once, I remember Aditya Chopra telling me that an extension of my real life should come up on the screen. When you do different roles in your career, you should also feel the change within.
You are one of the few actors from the recent lot to have experienced fatherhood quite early. How do you take time out for the family, in between a hectic schedule?
Yes! Probably, also the youngest father in the industry (smiles). Well, I am definitely not strict or tough with my kids. I am hardly in the city. Earlier, I was not being able to give much time to them. However, now that my family has moved with me to Mumbai, I plan to spend more time with them.
I am more confident about the technical aspects of film making now - Parineeti Chopra | Exclusive Interview
After a dream debut in the Hindi film industry five years ago, actress Parineeti Chopra saw her second dream turning into reality this year. With her upcoming film, Meri Pyaari Bindu, Chopra finally made her playback debut, with a beautiful love ballad titled ‘Maana ke hum’, a song that has already topped various music charts across the country. Needless to say, not just her fans, but almost everyone fell in love with her natural, raw and soothing style of singing. Apart from her singing skills, Pari is also garnering praise for her new avatar in the film, which also stars Ayushmann Khurrana. We caught up with her in between a packed schedule, with promotional activities, rehearsals for a concert (which concluded last weekend) and a film shoot lined up later in Goa. The chirpy, beautiful actress settled down for an exclusive chat with Diary of a Dancebee, where she discussed films, fitness, love for music and lots more. Excerpts from a candid chat:
Congratulations! Finally your dream of singing for your own film came true. Tell us more about your experience?
I am so happy that I can't explain it in words (smiles). I always wanted to sing and people who are close to me knew that I am passionate about singing. When the track - Maana Ke Hum, was made and I heard it, I thought this was a soulful number which gave me so much peace. So, it was a unanimous decision that I sing for myself. The response has been amazing and I have got positive feedback beyond my expectations. It is indeed a special feeling.
How were you introduced to music in your childhood?
My father is a big music enthusiast. My mother was an NRI and after she got married to my father, she started speaking Hindi. So, my musical Influence was mixed. My mother used to listen to Blue Diamond, Abba among others, while my father is a huge fan of Mohammad Rafi. I remember during our childhood, my father used to listen to songs sung by Mukesh and he used to sit with his harmonium. When I started growing up, I started listening to both western and Indian songs. I have been trained in classical music. Also, during our childhood, both me and Mimi Didi (Priyanka Chopra) used to perform with our respective fathers in cultural functions.
People don't understand that it (weight gain or loss) has lot to do with health as well
Major part of Meri Pyari Bindu has been shot in Kolkata. How was your experience?
People of Kolkata are very knowledgeable. They have a passion for good music and awesome food. I just love being there. When you exit the Kolkata airport, you see a different city altogether. It seems like time stops there. I get a vintage vibes from the city. We can still see the black and yellow taxis there.
What were you upto during your break?
I have done up my new house with my inputs, which was very important. I have also given a lot of time to my fitness. Plus, I was busy filming for Meri Pyaari Bindu, apart from other events and endorsements. A person like me needs proper personal time to come back with loads of energy and enthusiasm.
Your brand new avatar has been loved and appreciated by your fans. What was the motivation behind this change?
The main reason is that personally, I wasn’t happy to see myself on screen. Sometimes, when you are overweight, you actually don't do justice to your given roles. So, I decided to opt for weight loss. Film is a visual medium and you need to give a lot of importance to your look. Also health wise, I was not getting the needed stamina and used to often feel very tired. So, I thought it’s high time to get my stamina back. It's been 12 long years that I have been struggling with my weight. People don't understand that it has lot to do with health as well.
When I started growing up, I started listening to both western and Indian songs
How do you look back at your career so far?
It's been a good journey. I have always tried to be different from each film. At a very initial stage of my career, I have done films like Ishaqzaade, then a Kill Dil and even Hasee Toh Phasee. Now, Meri Pyaari Bindu is a very different experience to cherish. And now, I am shooting for Golmaal 4, which again is a very unique experience.
In these five years, what are the changes that you have experienced as an artist?
I think now, I am more confident and knowledgable about the technical aspects of film making. I have more insight on lights and camera. I have also learned how to strike a balance between personal and professional life. Earlier, I used to only work hard and never gave enough time to my personal life. But, now I know how important it is to strike a balance between the two.
Things to do in Macao - The Cotai Strip
Visiting Macao anytime soon? The beautiful administrative region of China has got some excellent activities and entertainment options, that will keep you feeling excited and thrilled throughout the stay. During our recent visit, we explored some 'Must Visit' places in and around Cotai Strip, especially at the Sands Resorts, that has seven inter-connected properties, with a plethora of action packed, entertaining options to choose from. Here's a round up of our favourite activities and places to see in Macao, at the Cotai Strip.
The Eiffel Tower Experience
For someone who has always looked up to Paris as the ultimate dream destination, and loves to be in love with the Eiffel Tower, the experience of exploring South East Asia's very own Eiffel was surreal. The 1/2 scale tower is covered in 6000 individual bulbs and stands tall, right inside the Parisian Macao property. The tower is connected to the property with a love bridge, similar to the one in Paris. Visitors can buy love locks from the souvenir shop (located near the ticketing / entrance area of the tower) and lock them with a note or message at the bridge. The observation decks at Level 7 and 37 offer a breathtaking view of Macao, with gentle winds blowing in your hair and the sky looking dreamy as ever. And hey, you can even get to see a glimpse of the China border. The tower looks equally, or perhaps more beautiful at night. Don't miss the light show, where the Eiffel Tower dazzles and shimmers in style, turning visitors into paparazzi. If you can't get enough of the sheer beauty that is this tower, opt for the Eiffel Tower view suite (which I did). Trust me, the sheer joy of waking up to this gorgeous view is incomparable. If dining at the Eiffel is your thing, do visit La Chine on level 6 and enjoy the fine view, while you gorge on delicious Chinese food.
Kung Fu Panda Adventure Ice World
On our very first day in Macau, we were greeted by some of our favourite on-screen characters. Post a hearty (super late) lunch, we headed straight to Ice World - Asia’s largest indoor frozen wonderland, spanning over 1,600-square-metre, which has returned to The Venetian Macao’s Cotai Expo for the fifth year, with some new attractions and activities. Anyone traveling to Macao till July 9, 2017 can experience the coolest adventure in ice - titled Kung Fu Panda Adventure Ice World with the DreamWorks All-Stars. It was mesmerising to see beautiful ice sculptures, made up of thousands of multi-coloured ice blocks, ice skilfully carved into amazingly detailed sculptures by a team of expert craftsmen from Harbin in northern China. This year, the added attractions have been divided into seven zones and include a host of colourful new DreamWorks Animation characters from films like Kung Fu Panda, Madagascar, Shrek, How To Train Your Dragon, The Croods and Trolls. They have all been vibrantly brought to life with dazzling lights and stunning sound effects. Travellers and their loved ones can also enjoy new themed games, gorge on savoury snacks, choose from a wide range of merchandise and also hang out with the characters at meet-and-greets. The temperature inside is set at a chilly minus 8 degrees Celsius, so be prepared to enter with your long coats, gloves and closed shoes.
Monkey King Show
Monkey King – China Show is a large-scale fantasy stage play based on the Chinese legend of the famous monk – Xuan Zang from the Tang Dynasty (602 – 664), and is better known as “A Journey to the West.” After eight years in the making, the Beijing Huayan Group launched a stage show based on the legend at the Sands Cotai Theatre (Macao) in February earlier this year. The spectacular stage production breaks new ground in interpreting the classic tale, while appealing to a modern audience. We were mesmerised by the sheer beauty and scale of the dance, acrobatics, drama, martial arts and magic acts. The show also features the most advanced 3D effects, LED screen projections, video mapping and full surround sound, along with creative lighting effects, choreography (they’ve even got a sequence with characters performing on hover boards), music and stunning, colourful costumes.
Planet J
Our experience at the Planet J arena was quite interesting. It is the first-ever player-centric Live-Action-Role-Playing (LARP) Theme Park in the world. Interestingly, it is also the first theme park in Macao, covering an extensive area of 100,000 sq. ft., with 8 exquisite featured zones and over 200 whimsical game installations. FYI, there are no rides inside this theme park. Planet J is a legendary world, where each player takes up the role of a key character in their own fantasy adventure, and solves various quests involving intelligence and physical ability, in order to open treasure chests.
Venetian Gondola Rides
An iconic ride, straight from the European lagoon's islands. At the Venetian, one can experience a beautiful voyage through the indoor canals on an Italian gondola. 44 Gondolas with supremely talented, singing gondoliers entertain the guests, as they wind their way through the canals of Shoppes at Venetian. Sit back, relax and enjoy the lovely ride.
Shop at Sands Resorts
Complete with serenading gondoliers and colourful Venetian streetscapes, Shoppes at Venetian is a luxurious one-million-square-foot indoor mall with more than 350 stores featuring world-renowned brands and the best boutiques from New York, Paris, London and Milan. After exploring the shoppes at Venetian, visitors can also check out other malls that are a part of Sands Shoppes, connecting the malls at Four Seasons and Cotai Central, adding up to 650 more stores to choose from – the most in any one single location in all of Macao! So, all you shopaholics out there. We highly recommend that you don't miss the opportunity of enjoying the pleasure of shopping at Macao’s ultimate luxury duty-free shoppes. PS: They've just got a huge, swanky new Victoria's Secret store, that opened its doors to the public last fortnight.
Musicals
During our stay at the property, we got a chance to watch Bibap, a popular musical that was performed at the Parisian Theatre from April 7 to 23. Bibap tells the story of a cooking competition between two master chefs, Green Chef and Red Chef, at ‘BIBAP’ restaurant, alongside six other hyperactive performers also dressed as chefs, incorporating a cappella singing, beatbox sounds, b-boying (breakdancing) and acrobatics. Blending martial arts, singing, street dance and hip-hop, BIBAP was created to celebrate and promote Korean food culture worldwide. Currently, anyone of you planning a trip to Macao, anytime till September 3, will be welcomed by an even more ‘thrilling’ act. Thriller Live, a spectacular theatrical concert, has returned to The Parisian Macao due to popular demand. It pays the perfect tribute to world’s greatest artist ever - Michael Jackson.
How to get there? - From the Macao Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal and helicopter terminal, Sands Resorts is only a 10-minute journey. Macau International Airport and the Lotus Flower Bridge Border Checkpoint are just 5 minutes away. The Venetian Macao offers free shuttle bus transportation at the Macao Border Gate, the Macao Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal, the Taipa Temporary Ferry Terminal and the Macao International Airport for travel to and from The Sands Resorts, Macao.
Love,
The Dancebee
Dancebee Travels | The Macao Food Trail
Most of you following us on our social media platforms already know that I had a great time in Macao last fortnight. From delightful activities to gorging on dainty dishes and exploring the stunning properties owned by Sands Resorts at the Cotai Strip; we did all this and so much more! This fortnight, I am super excited to share stories and exciting features from my Macau travel diaries. We kick off our #DancebeeInMacau series with some culinary feast.
During our stay, we got an opportunity to visit different restaurants, located within the connected properties (more information about the property to follow in upcoming posts). With a variety of restaurants dedicated to multiple cuisines from across the globe, there was something for everyone. We were spoilt for choice, as we explored some of the most popular restaurants, mainly at The Venetian and The Parisian Macao. There was a lot to like and love at each of these restaurants. While some stood out for its ambience, some others for its gorgeous decor. But, all of them had one thing in common - delicious food. Here's a round up of our favourite restaurants, that you must visit on your next trip to Macao.
Brasserie (The Parisian Macao)
After a long day of travel, we reached a few hours late, which resulted in a late lunch. However, the delicious French fare at the Brasserie ensured we leave the place with a smile on our face. This all day dining place is a favourite with those who enjoy signature French dishes. Brasserie's kitchen team is led by the experienced French chef Daniel Brolese, who ensures the dishes bring out authentic flavours. Featuring classic café favourites, straight from the streets of Paris, one must try some delectable crepes filled with cheese, shallot and cream sauce with french fries, soups with a basket full of fresh bread on the side or just some good ol' plate full of french fries (one of the best I have tried). Special mention of the amazing service at the restaurant, warm ambience and eye-catching decor.
Golden Peacock (The Venetian Macao)
You know that wonderful feeling when you find an Indian restaurant, miles away from home, serving lip smackingly good desi food? Say hello to Golden Peacock - a fine dining Indian cuisine restaurant at The Venetian Macao, that had has bowled over with it's supremely divine desi fare. The only Indian restaurant in Asia starred by Michelin for three consecutive years, Golden Peacock is known to have a comprehensive desi menu, with popular dishes from Northern and Southern India (Jain dishes are served too). Not only Indians, but you will also find other international tourists enjoying the scrumptious food at this restaurant. Our curated menu (separate for guests depending on Veg & Non-Veg preference) included Veg Starters, Tomato Shorba, mains including Egg Plant (Baingan) curry and more. We absolutely loved the dessert, which consisted of Mango Rasmalai and hot Gulab Jamuns. Right from the presentation to hospitality, choice of dishes on the menu to the wonderful ambience, Golden Peacock scores full points on our list and was definitely our favourite pick at the Sands Resorts, Macao.
La Chine (The Parisian Macao)
Always dreamt of enjoying a wonderful meal, while adoring the breathtaking view from Eiffel Tower? Well, The Parisian Macao fulfils your wish with La Chine - a Chinese cuisine restaurant situated on level 6 of the Eiffel Tower. Vibrant ambience, tastefully done up decor and the aroma of good authentic Chinese food; La Chine is an elegant fine dining restaurant in every way. What we love about this place is the fact that it creates a wonderful melange of two completely different cultures - Chinese and French, not only in the ambience, but also with its appetising fare. Where else would you find the delicious blend of red bean crepes with green tea ice cream? We loved our curated four course vegetarian fare. However, what won our heart has to be a summery fresh non-alcoholic drink called 'Eiffel Love' - packed with strawberries, coconut milk, mint and more (those following us on Instagram have seen a glimpse of this delicious drink). What's better than enjoying some Eiffel Love, while gazing at the stunning view from the famed tower?
Portofino (The Venetian Macao)
A slice of Italy in Macau. One of Venetian Macao's popular restaurants, Portofino serves delicious Italian dishes. Classic setting, beautiful ambience and stylish decor; Portofino is the kind of place where you would love to relax and chat with your friends over some really good food. If indoor dining is not your thing, you can also choose to dine at the patio, while enjoying the beautiful weather and overlooking the stunning pool. On Day 3, after an amazing tour of important tourist spots in the Macau region, we visited Portofino for lunch. And boy, it was so good! We loved every bit of the Caprese Salad (mozzarella with tomatoes, pesto and pine nuts) and vegetarian pasta specially curated for us. If you love classic Italian dishes and some good ambience, this place is a must visit!
From earlier today, delicious Italian lunch at Portofino @VenetianMacao Loved the presentation and hospitality 💕 #DancebeeInMacau pic.twitter.com/NsHZ15hqd3— Priya Adivarekar (@priyaadivarekar) April 12, 2017
Le Buffet (The Parisian Macao)
Everybody needs a solid brekkie to start their day. What better than a scrumptious buffet, with tons to breakfast options to choose from? Le Buffet at The Parisian Macao, located just 5 mins away from my room at the same property, offers all day buffet. The delightful breakfast spread includes salads, soups, fresh cut fruits, juice and a variety of different food items. Live counters at the buffet served eggs (prepared according to requirement), rice bowls and many more options, mostly non-vegetarian. We also spotted parathas, chole (reads as chickpea curry), egg fried rice, noodles and more. One could also take a pick from the wide variety of breads, croissants and cheese available at the restaurant. Some of our favourite picks during the stay (since being a vegetarian, I had limited options) were the crispy hash browns (my favourite), DIY salads, fresh breads and fruit juices.
We've got tons of updates coming up from the Dancebee Travel Diaries in Macau. Stay tuned!
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Cinema | 5 Reasons to Watch Dear Zindagi
The headline may have left you wondering, "Didn't Dear Zindagi release last year already?" Well, it sure did. However, I know several folks who missed the chance to watch this acclaimed film on the big screen. But, guess what? The wait is finally over. The film is all set to air on the small screen this weekend, with a World Television Premiere scheduled on Sunday at 12 pm. For those who came in late, Gauri Shinde's directorial venture 'Dear Zindagi' stars Alia Bhatt and Shah Rukh Khan in the lead, and focuses on mental health as the core subject.
But, you may ask - Why should I spend my Sunday afternoon watching this film, instead of the good ol' drama show or match highlights? Well, we've got more reasons than one to prove why you must tune into Zee Cinema and watch Dear Zindagi this Sunday.
Alia - SRK Chemistry: In an industry where romantic on-screen pairs and characters rule the roost, we had SRK and Alia display excellent chemistry as a therapist (psychiatrist) - patient pair. Highlight of the film, of course, has got to be their counselling sessions. The ease and comfort with which they interact is fabulous. Their conversations look real and relatable, which makes it an interesting watch.
SRK in a different avatar: We have seen him steal our hearts as Raj Malhotra in DDLJ, and more recently, he taught us how 'Koi dhanda chota nahi hota' in Raees. Well, that's superstar Shah Rukh Khan for you - versatile as ever. While we have seen him essay several characters ranging from a lover boy to don, street side tapori to a heartbroken professor; his character in Dear Zindagi was a breakaway from everything he has done in the past. Khan plays the role a therapist for the very first time, and that too, with a twist. His character - Jehangir 'Jug' Khan has a unique approach for all his cases. What's it all about? You need to watch the film and find out.
Music: Most of us believe that the soundtrack of a film can make or break it. Fortunately, Dear Zindagi is packed with some refreshingly different and melodious songs. Amit Trivedi's compositions and Kausar Munir's soulful lyrics form a great melange, that is heartwarming, light and easy on the ear. Our favourites have got to be 'Love you Zindagi', sung by Jasleen Royal and of course, the recreated version of 'Ae Zindagi' sung by Arijit Singh. You can't help but fall in love with the OST, slowly and steadily.
Performances: One of the key highlights and strongest pro of this film has got to be the performances delivered by lead actors, and well, our reviewer too agreed. Alia's nuanced performance as the young cinematographer - Kaira, who fights against her inner emotional turmoil, earned her accolades from industry stalwarts. The actress took home top awards for her natural, balanced act. Khan's naturally flawless performance as therapist Jug strikes an instant connect. Minutes into his 'gyan filled session' and you will believe that indeed, this world is a beautiful place to live in.
The Takeaway: While Dear Zindagi does have its usual entertainment and filmy moments that stay with you, the biggest takeaway from this film has got to be the motivation to live, love and laugh. Today, we live a fast paced life, follow hectic routines and tire ourselves to no end, all in our quest to emerge successful and become the best. The crazy competition out there has got us stuck in a whirlwind, and the way out usually gets quite difficult. The result? We have forgotten to enjoy some of life's most simplest pleasures. Or like a friend of mine likes to call it - 'Theraav'. Enjoying a mango popsicle on a sunny day or watching the raindrops pitter-patter on the window pane with a cup of coffee in hand; we usually ignore these moments because everybody is in a rush to be 'somewhere'. In a bid to follow the herd, stick to routines or live upto societal pressures, most people lose their mental peace. Dear Zindagi explores this very concept in a beautiful way. It has the answers to a 20-something's inner turmoil, and also helps the audience discover a different side to life. A side that he / she may know about, but had to leave behind in order to join the rat race. It's about time we respect ourselves, enjoy the small joys of life and learn to live a little.
This Sunday, get your family together with a large tub of home-made popcorn (or maybe, some yummy lunch), tune in, sit back and relax. Watch the World Television Premiere - Dear Zindagi, on April 23 at 12 pm IST, only on Zee Cinema.
