Musical Monsoon

We’ve seen it all. Grease, Legally Blonde, Spamalot. It’s not the first time a film as inspired a stage adaptation. But none of them have any…. masala.

On the heels of Shilpa Shetty’s Miss Bollywood, along with The Merchants of Bollywood and Bollywood Dreams, comes another desi-centric musical and the first of its kind.

For the first time a desi film will be adapted for the theater. The movie? The 2001 Mira Nair hit, Monsoon Wedding. The musical will be directed by Nair herself and produced by the same group who brought us the Broadway smash Hairspray. Although the director is keeping the cast on the DL, she does confirm that two of the original stars will be in the musical.

Next up for the uber-talented director? Shantaram, a film about an escaped Australian convict who makes a new life for himself in the slums of Mumbai. Lucky for us, this cast for this project is not on the down low. The stellar cast includes Johnny Depp (yeah!), Amitabh Bachchan, and Helena Bonham Carter.

And maybe one day Shantaram will be a musical. Johnny Depp on stage? Now that’s a play we’d like to see.

For more Mira Nair news, check out her website www.mirabaifilms.com

Go Go Goa

Demanding parents, screaming kids, and nosy aunties. A bona fide recipe for another stressful holiday season. Busy bee that you are, you’re going to need a relaxing getaway.

So how about a super secret beach separated from the mainland by a bamboo bridge, your own private villa, and blue water for miles? If that doesn’t sound like a dream you need to get your pulse checked.

Welcome to Elsewhere, a beautiful Goanese estate owned by local photographer Denzil Sequiera. Elsewhere has been in Sequeira’s family since 1886, when his great grandfather Anjelo Sequeira bought the property for a mere Rs. 2000.

The property was transformed when Denzil decided to renovate the property and rent the houses out to the public. Now you can enjoy cooking fresh fish over the fire, listening to the birds or watch a turtle hatching. Lest you think all this is a little too granola for you, rest assured there is a cook available to prepare all meals, a yoga instructor, and a car with driver if you’re so inclined.

Rates range from $1200 per week for a tent to $2400 for a two bedroom villa. Elsewhere is so secret that they won’t give you the address until you confirm a booking. Hmm, bet that nosy auntie won’t find you here.

Who said Goa is just for hippies? Calgon take me away!!!

Elsewhere. For reservations email gaze@aseaescape.com www.aseaescape.com

A Small Package

Good things come in small packages, as the saying goes. Diamonds, rubies, sapphires to count a few. Or maybe they were talking about Graffiti, the recently opened hotspot by Jehangir Mehta.

Although he came from a family of accountants, he followed his passion for food at a young age, eventually studying at the Culinary Institute of America. He went on to hone his skills as a pastry chef at some of the hottest restaurants in New York including Jean-Georges, as well as Vong, Aix, and Sapa. The Bombay bred chef later created the uber delicious Partistry featuring handmade chocolates and teas.

With Graffiti the restaurant, (which by the way is the size of a Manhattan apartment) takes cues from Mehta's flair for edgy creative food and witty sense of humor. Case in point? Watermelon feta salad with mint sorbet, mustard soup, and hot chocolate sprinkled with pop rocks on the menu. Neon colored whisks serve as napkin holders and a handbag featuring a peeping tom is used to point the way to the ladies room.

Introverts be aware. The super tiny restaurant only seats 18 people and seating is communal. Which means your date just might turn into a double date after you're seated.

Menage a trois anyone?

Graffiti, 224 East 10th Street, New York, NY 10003. Tel: 212 677 0695. www.graffitinyc.com Keep posted for Mehta's upcoming book Mantra hitting shelves Spring 08.

50 Rupee

Now we've seen it all......







Catch more of 50 Cent on
www.desihits.com

Supermodel

Don’t hate me because I’m beautiful. Its sooo tough being a model. Gracing the pages of a magazine. Having your hair and makeup done for you. Wearing bikinis in the winter. It’s a rough life. But someone’s got to do it. We bring you the hottest desi models of the moment……

Azura Vandenberg. Dutch/Indian. See her in the latest Champion campaign. -------------------------------------------------->

Puja B. 100% Indian. The former Miss India America Teen has walked for the likes of Catherine Malandrino and Vivienne Tam. The most edgy of the desi models, she brings a little variety to the scene. <--------------------------

Asha Leo. Anglo-Indian. Miss Leo started her successful career as a model after winning the face of Sugar Magazine. She went on to score spreads in Cosmo and keep the boys happy in the Kingfisher Calendar.

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Anya Lahiri. Finnish/Indian. After being discovered at the tender age of 16, she went on to join girl group Precious, and is now focusing on her acting career. <--------------------------------

Stephanie Sinnah. French/Indian. See this beauty in ads for Jaina. --------------------------------->

Kim Tyo. 100% Indian. Don’t let the name fool you. Kim is all desi and currently the face of Artistry cosmetics. <-------------------------

Aruna Shields. Anglo-Indian. She models, she acts, she dances. Watch out for this triple threat. ----------------------->

And surprise, surprise….

Nigel Barker. English/Sri-Lankan. We can’t forget the guys no can we??? “Noted” fashion photographer and Top Model judge Nigel Barker breaks hearts every week on "America’s Next Top Model”. But before Tyra, this gorgeous face used to be in front of the camera as model himself.

Whetting Your Appetite

Boys, get your engines ready. Padma Lakshmi will be signing copies of her new book "Tangy Tart Hot and Sweet" at two locations in New York on November 15th and 19th. See the desi dish calendar for more details....

Hotlanta

Who says that NY and LA have to have the monopoly on film festivals? No, no, no certainly not us.

Atlanta is stepping into the foray for a second time with its annual Indo-American Film Festival. The four day festival will screen independent movies from both Indian and NRI filmmakers. The entries encompass a wide variety of themes including transgenders and AIDS, identity and roots, prostitution, and of course for what seems like the 137th time, outsourcing.

But here's the twist. If you don't live in the Atlanta area, you can still view some of the films online. The Indo-American Film Society and Kaneva, a virtual networking world, have come together to create an online short film contest. Viewers from around the world can watch the films and vote for their faves. The winner will be awarded the Best Short Film prize.

Nice work Hotlanta.

For more info visit www.iafs.us, and keep checking www.kaneva.com for more info about the contest.

The Sweet Smell of Desperation

We got our first taste of Jesse's hotness as Gabrielle Solis's boy toy gardner on Desperate Housewives. Well the boy is all grown up and now's he seducing.... a sweet desi girl?

In the forthcoming movie The Other End of the Line, Tamil/Telugu star, Shriya Saran, plays an Indian call center employee who falls in love with the hunky voice at the other end, played by Jesse Hot Metcalfe. Like any other sensible girl, she travels to San Francisco to find her night in shining armor and of course hilarity ensues.

Aimed at mainstream audiences, the movie marks the first collaboration between India's largest movie chain Adlabs and the stateside MGM. Production has already started in Mumbai, and will continue in San Fransisco and New York, with release slated for 2008.

Hmm, time to plan that trip to Mumbai, anyone?

For production updates, check www.imdb.com

Movin On Up

OK, so he's a republican, against stem cell research, and a staunch supporter of Dubya. Not exactly our cup of tea. Or chai as the case may be. But as the youngest and first non-white governor in the state of Louisiana since the Civil War, we're still proud of our fellow desi nonetheless. After running unsuccessfully in 2003, he ran and won the election for Louisiana's 1st congressional district. In a state known for being backwards and racist, Bobby J's election is one step for man, one giant leap for desis.

Love Makes the World Go Round

"Ishq ishq karna hai kar le
Ishq ishq mein jee le mar le
Ishq ishq hai sab se pyaara"

Wiser words have never been said. If love is the sweetest of all, then new Miami restaurant Ishq is a spoonful of sugar. Ishq is the brainchild of husband and wife Sham and Kavita Kamlani, with Kavita serving as executive chef. The fusion restaurant remains true to the flavors of India while combining elements from Persia, China, Portugal, France, the Netherlands, and England.

Some of the highlights? The Lakshmana, a cocktail of chai tea infused rum with pomegranate and mango juice, Ahi Tuna Pondicherry (encrusted with indian spices) and Bombay Baby Back Ribs (grilled with tamarind bbq sauce) with Masala Fries. Yumeroo!

How can you not ishq this place?

Ishq, 530 Ocean Drive, Miami, Fl. Tel: 305.532.4747.

Who's the Fairest of them all?

A "virgin" queen from England with a beheaded mother and lecherous father. Just the fodder for a former Bollywood director.

On October 12th, famed director Shekhar Kapur brings us the the sequel to Elizabeth in Elizabeth The Golden Age. Fast-forwarding 10 years later, Kapur brings us to the middle of Elizabeth's reign as she faces threats from Spain, familial backstabbing, and an unexpected love for Sir Walter Raleigh.

Interestingly enough, Kapur started his career light years away from the glitz and glamour of Tinseltown. A former account and corporate planner, the director-to-be decided to give it all up to pursue his dream of working in the entertainment industry. After directing Bollywood hits such as Masoom, Mr. India, Bandit Queen, Kapur received international recognition for Elizabeth including an Oscar nomination for Best Picture.

Lest you think this uber talented director is a one trick pony, think again. Kapur also created Virgin Comics with Richard Branson and had his hand in helping Andrew Lloyd Webber bring the musical "Bombay Dreams" come to life.

Sweet genius.

Elizabeth: The Golden Age opens in the U.S. October 12th.
www.elizabeththegoldenage.net

Prague-A-Licious

What do you get when you mix a little Bollywood sizzle with a little social critique?

One hot film festival, that's what.

For the 5th year in a row, the Independent India Festival comes to Prague from October 11-14. Founded by three like-minded individuals with a predilection for all things Bollywood, the 3-day extravaganza will feature everything from the classic 1942: Love Story to mega blockbuster Dhoom 2, as well as a tantalizing documentary about golden boy Shah Rukh Khan.

Not just a celebration of South Asian culture, this Bollywood bonanza seeks to examine the significance of Indian cinema in 60 years after independence as well as the impact of Bollywood as India emerges as a significant economic power. And when you're done with all that heady stuff, make your way over to the afterparty at PM Klub with Munich Masala.

Social commentary and song and dance? That sounds like our kind of festival.

Independent India Festival - Addicted to Bollywood,
www.bollywood.cz

Trailers, Trailers, Galore.....

Just in case you can't make it to the South Asian Film Festival in the Big Apple (and because we love independent filmmakers), here are the previews.....

Outsourced


Shame


Milk & Opium


Rivaaz


Dharm



Keep your eyes and ears posted for these talented filmmakers and actors.....

Filmwhalla

Bollywood blockbusters leaving you a little drained? All spice and no substance?

The Desi Dish has a solution for you.

From October 3-9, New York will host the 2007 South Asian International Film Festival. Filmmakers desi and non-desi come together to explore various themes from the South Asian diaspora from the comedic to tragic, from Pakistan to France to the U.S.

Opening the festival is the film Loins of Punjab, the story of 5 Indian-Americans and a Jewish Indophile competing in "Desi Idol", starring none other than the legendary Shabana Azmi. Shabana is also being honored at the festival with a lifetime achievement award by SAIFF for her achievements as an actress.



The festival will also showcase over 50 other films and documentaries, including Outsourced, about you guessed it, outsouring, Rivaaz, a film about a family of prostitutes, Dosar, a Bengali film about infidelity, Shame, a documentary about Mukhtaran Maispoke, a brave Pakistani woman who out after being gang raped.

If the films leaving you feeling a little heavy, you can always lighten up with a cocktail at one of the nightly afterparties. In fact ticketholders are granted free permission.

Sounds like a hot ticket.

The South Asian Film Festival, Oct 3-9, New York.
www.saiff.org

One Happy Family

Just because we love them both....

See Perez interview M.I.A. on his new show "Perez Sez" on VH1
"Perez Sez". www.vh1.com

Darjeeling Darling

If you're desi (and we're assuming you are), the idea of spending time with your relatives on a cramped Indian train might seem closer to suicide than a spiritual journey.

But then again you probably don't think Deepak Chopra is genius or that Bikram yoga is like really aaaaaamazing.

Thank goodness for non-desis. In the upcoming film, The Darjeeling Limited, starring Owen Wilson, Jason Schwartzman and Adrian Brody,director Wes Anderson follows three wealthy yet estranged brothers on a "spiritual" (what else?) quest through India. Wishing to forge a stronger bond, the siblings hope a train trip on the "Darjeeling Limited" will bring them together. Of course, this is a Wes Anderson film, and nothing is as it seems and it's not long before the hijinks and shenanigans ensue.

The movie also features music by Satyajit Ray, along with cameos by Wes Anderson faves Angelica Huston, Bill Murray and jewelery designer/NY society darling Waris . Waris Ahluwalia.

Let the ride begin.

The Darjeeling Limited, opens nationwide on Sept 29. www.foxsearchlight.com/thedarjeelinglimited

Bollywood Blogger

Now we've really heard it all. Just when you thought Bollywood's audience couldn't possibly get any bigger, out pops yet another seemingly random fan.

Anu Heikola, a 29 year old from Finland, is absolutely in love with all things Bollywood. And she happily blogs about it on her site, anuradha.vuodatus.net, complete with a picture of Anu in a silver sari and bindi. Ever the devotee, Anu even changed her name to Anuradha in her undying support of Bollywood.

In fact, Anuradha doesn't understand Hindi, but it doesn't seem to matter. The romantic, song-and-dance appeal is what draws her in. Although the blog is in Finnish, you can check out pictures of all the Bollywood heavyweights, Kareena, Aishwarya, Akshay, Salman, Abishek, and of course Shah Rukh, who seems to have a signficantly higher number of pictures on the site than his colleagues.

Hmmm, does someone have a little SRK crush?

Anu's blog, anuradha.vuodatus.net

Class Issues

"I really hate how I HAVE to go the débutante ball because I'm a slutty hotel heiress. I mean I'd rather see Biff's band play".

"Yeah that blows".

Class boundaries really suck don't they? At least most of us don't have to deal with the such hardships. But you can learn a lot from those who have.

In the upcoming film Vanaja, director Rajnesh Domalpalli takes moviegoers on a thought provoking voyage through social barriers, sex, and the second-class status of women in rural India. Vanaja centers around story of the feisty 14-year-old Vanaja, played by Mamatha Bhukya. Vanaja has her heart set on dancing Kuchipudi professionally, but as the lower class daughter of a drunk fisherman Vanaja has a hurdle of obstacles to overcome. However the plucky girl soon takes a job with the local landlady, Rama Devi, in the hopes of learning dance from her mentor. Along the way she meets Shekar, Rama's beefcake politician son several years her senior, who may just be her downfall.

Written as part of director Rajnesh's student film project at Columbia University soon became a labor of love as the director took to Andhra Pradesh to make a feature film. Deciding to forgo theatrics for a more natural feel, Rajnesh decided to cast locals in the film. Yes you heard right. In fact prior to filming, lead actress Mamatha, had never acted or danced in her life. Which makes the film's success that much more amazing. The film has bagged scores of awards at various festivals including, Best Feature, Best Actress, Best Narrative, and Best Debut and garnered rave reviews from the New York Times and Variety.

Pretty impressive for a student film, huh?

Vanaja, now playing in selected theaters. www.vanajathefilm.com

Bombay Dreams, Part 2.

Eat
The Scenester. Indigo. The choice of visiting rock stars (Mick Jagger), local Bollywood glitterati, and listed by Conde Nast Traveler as one of the 60 best restaurants in the world, Indigo is THE place to dine when in Mumbai. 4 Mandlik House, Colaba, Mumbai 400 001. Tel: 91 22 5636 8999.

The Health Nut. Pure. The all white decor and organic international menu (yes organic in Mumbai), and juice bar will wow foodies and macrobiotics alike. Taj Lands Hotel, Bandra West. Tel: 91 22 6668 1234. www.tajhotels.com

The Snacker. Swati Snacks. A vegetarian junk food paradise, patrons can revel in the deliciousness of dal dhoklis, jaggery, and paanki. 248 Karai Estate, Tardeo Road.
Tel: 91 22 2492 0994.

Nightlife
The Clubber: Enigma. THE hottest club at the moment counts itself as one of Aishwarya's favorites. A combo of western and Bollywood music and well-known DJs keep the crowds coming. J W Marriott Hotel, Juhu Tara Road, Tel: 91-22 5693 3287. Couples only.

The Historian: Leopold Cafe and Bar. This Mumbai institution has been around since the days of the British Raj and still continues to attract travelers seeking to swap subcontinental tales. CNR Colaba Causeway & Nawroji F Rd Tel: 91 22 2202 0131

The Chiller: Mocha Bar. This coffeeshop/bar stays open late, plays world music, features comfy sofa seating, and has plenty of hookahs to go around. What more can you ask for? Best location: 82 Veer Nariman Rd. Tel: 91 22 6633 6070.www.mocha.co.in

The Rocker. Ghetto. OK so India isn't exactly known for its raging rock scene. But Ghetto is probably the best you're going to get in Mumbai. A dingy, graffiti covered bar playing a rock/pop mix can be a welcome respite from all of the other glossy Bollywood clubs. 30 Bhulabhai Desai Marg Tel: 022 2353 8418

Bombay Dreams, Part 1

Beautiful people, trendy nightclubs, cows roaming the streets, and crazy rikshaw drivers. Glamorous and gritty, Mumbai has always been a city of vast contradictions. You know about Chowpatty Beach, Chor Bazaar, and Crawford Market, but there's more to Mumbai ........ and its ready to explode.

Sleep
Old school. The Taj. he granddaddy of all hotel is still one of the most luxurious hotels in all of India. Situated next to The Gateway of India, with views of the Arabian Sea and a nightclub (Insomnia) on the premises, you can't go wrong. Apollo Bunder, Tel: 91 22 5665 3366, www.tajhotels.com.

The Modernist. The Oberoi. With butlers on every floor and impeccably trained staff, it's no wonder that Bill Clinton stayed here. Nariman Point, Mumbai - 400 021,Tel: 91 22 6632 5757. www.oberoimumbai.com

The Minimalist. The Gordon Hotel. Although the Gordon is a boutique hotel, it doesn't mean they don't know how to party. The adjacent Polly Ester's nightclub (not as cheesy as the States) and Stir Fry restaurant will keep you entertained and well-fed until the wee hours. 5 Battery Street, Apollo Bunder, Colaba. Tel: 91 22 2287 1122. www.ghhotel.com

Shopping
The Classic. Ensemble. Home to designers Manish Malhotra, Wendell Rodericks, as well as owner Tarun Tahiliani's own designs, Ensemble is a sure fire bet when you're looking for upscale desi wear. Great Western Building, 130/132, Shahid Bhagat Singh Marg. Tel: 91 22 2284 3227.

The Trendster. The Courtyard. A complex of 15 stores (choices, choices!), shoppers can find designers Ashish N Soni, Rajesh Pratap Singh, and Rohit Bal among others. SP Centre 41/44 Minoo Desai Marg, Colaba.

The Beauty Junkie. Forest Essentials. After shopping all day, you'll need to refresh your weary self. So head to Forest Essentials and stock up on all kinds of ayurvedic goodies from honey cleansers to sandalwood and rose lotions. 12 Tirupati Apartments, Bhulabhai Desai Road. Breach Candy. Tel: 91 22 3290 8114. www.forestessentialsindia.com

Now that you're shopped out go back to your hotel and rest. Hot clubs, amazing restaurants and more await you. Stay tuned for part 2....

Sit and Spin

"Droppin the bass with the beat of the bhangra a soni kuri asian queen rinsin the dhol for one and all. A cha drinkin, Tweed wearin hip hop to brit pop masala mix tape volume 1-and only Praise be to the magic of music and its musical magicians that allows our minds and souls to expand, beyond the boundaries of our lands. I got some airwaves and I come to you to find, your special sound to bring to new ears and minds."

Yep, just what we were thinking. Not really. But better pay attention because Komal Trivedi is going to make you stand up and listen.

Its not often that you get to hear Karmacy or Rishi Rich on the radio. Fortunately Komal is out to change all that. No longer relegated to the "international" station on a Saturday night, South Asian music is making an appearance on mainstream radio in the form of Komal's radio show "Bricklane Beats".

Although the Asian Underground is quite popular in London (duh), the dearth of Asian music Stateside inspired British-born Komal to start her own show. In her East London-Indian-Caribbean patois, Komal wakes up listeners with her infectious laugh and upbeat personality. Playing everything from Asha Bosle to Talvin Singh, to local rapper One Signata Nach, the DJ brings bhangra, Bollywood, and Asian electronica to the masses on Boston's radio station WZBC 90.3, airing Thursday mornings 7 am to 9 am.

Thankfully you don't have to live in Boston to enjoy "Bricklane Beats". Tune into the live stream on http://www.wzbc.org/listen.html and shake ya groove thang.

Hollllllaaaaaaaa!!!!

Komal Trivedi,
www.myspace.com/greenstreetgirl

For the Love of Art

Art-a-doodle-doo! Where would we be with out it?? Our lives would be gray, no beautifully carved temples in the south, no mogul paintings, David would still be encapsulated in stone, and tourists would have nothing to do on vacation.

So mark your calendars ladies and gents.

45 artists under one roof. For one week only. From August 29th to September 4th, the Henry Moore Gallery at the Royal College of Art in London, will present "Emerging India" a group show for up and coming artists. Focusing on new trends in the Indian art scene, the show will bring together artists from different parts of India, showcasing pieces in canvas, paper, photography, mixed media, and installations. For the fancier ones among us, you can even attend the private viewing and champagne reception on Friday August 31st, from 6-10pm.

Of course South Asian art has been around for thousands of years, but as India becomes more of a economic and political force, so does its art, music, and culture. And here's a chance to celebrate the best of the best new and fresh voices on the Indian contemporary art scene.

So work it out and get your butt over to the Royal College.

Henry Moore Gallery, The Royal College of Art, Kensington Gore, London SW7 2EU, +44 (0)20 7590 4444

Hey Skinny!

Jeans feeling a little snug lately? Too many pakoras and not enough gym time? You’ve been caught red handed. But let’s face it. Working out can be a huge pain in the ass. Taking out time from a busy schedule to sweat your butt off on some boring stationary bike is hardly anyone’s idea of a good time.

So why not try working out desi-style? Of course, we all know about the benefits of yoga, but what about something a little more…upbeat?

In ”Dance of the Kama Sutra”, instructor Hemalayaa shows us how to connect to our feminine energies. Using the Kama Sutra as a basis for exercise (don’t worry it's all clean), the classically trained dancer and yogini takes viewers through slow sensual movements designed to unearth your inner temptress. In addition to creating workout DVDs, Hemalayaa crisscrosses the U.S. and Canada, teaching Bollywood dance and yoga classes to throngs of fans.

For those who want a "tamer" workout, Saira Jain, the “Indian Jane Fonda” and creator of the Masala Bhangra workout is still going strong after almost 10 years. A certified fitness instructor, combines the traditional Punjabi folk dance with a bad ass cardio workout. With classes at Crunch and NY Sports Club and a number of instructional DVDs available, fans of Masala Bhangra can get their fix anytime, anywhere.

Aspiring Sridevis, and Shah Rukhs take note, Bollywood Dance is taking the world by storm. In New York, Bollywood Axion offers classes in bhangra, garba, and filmi style dancing all under one roof. Out west, wannabe dancers can hone their hip shaking at Bollywood West in Colorado and at the NDM School of Dance in Artesia, CA. On the other side of the AtlanticEngland, that is), Bollywood Dreams, will get your get your heart beating “dhak dhak” in no time. (

Now there’s no excuse not to fit into those skinny jeans.

Laugh In

“When are you getting married, beta?”

"Uh, I dunno."

“When I was your age I had 3 kids and a medical degree!!!”

"That's nice mom."

You thought growing up desi was difficult enough. Try growing up as a queer desi. In…. India. Well sometimes you have to take the lemons and make lemonade. And that’s exactly what comedian Vidur Kapur does in his stand up routine.

Poking fun at experiences as diverse being mistaken as a terrorist to being a fashion victim in the gay mecca known as West Hollywood, and working as a corporate executive (he’s still desi, after all!), Vidur has been on a roll.

After being voted one of the top four comedians at the Just for Laughs Festival in Montreal, starring with Margaret Cho, Vidur became the subject of fellow desi Shalini Kantayya's three minute short film during week 3's project on the Steven Spielberg reality show, "On the Lot", bringing his humor to an even larger audience.

Up next? Laughing Out Loud at the Gotham Comedy Club August 23rd in New York with a special guest appearance by Shalini Kantayya.

You'll laugh so hard you'll pee. And that's a promise.

Vidur Kapur, "www.vidurkapur.com"

Coming to a Theater Near You

How many desis does it take to light up the silver screen?

This weekend 2 Bollywood stars are ready to rock your world in 2 very different movies.

In Marigold, director Willard Carroll brings his love for India and a foreigner’s viewpoint to the big screen. The story follows Marigold (Ali Larter), an American actress who becomes stranded in Goa shortly after arriving, when the low budget Hollywood movie she was working on got scrapped. Luckily for miss Marigold, she happens to land a role in a Bollywood movie where she catches the eye of the dreamy choreographer Prem (Salman Khan).

However this is Bollywood we’re talking about and the movie wouldn’t be true Bollywood without love triangles, musical interludes, and flashy multiple outfit dance numbers. To that end, it appears that the star crossed lovers are doomed from the get go as Prem is engaged and Marigold has a boyfriend who just happens to pay her a visit in Goa. Or…..are they? Let the nail biting begin!!

On the opposite end of the spectrum, Bollywood’s reigning princess Aishwarya stars in The Last Legion, an action adventure starring Sir Ben Kingsley and Colin Firth. No references to India, Bollywood, or dancing in this movie. What?! That’s right desis are finally starting to branch out into other non-Indian centric roles. Woo hoo!! In fact, the movie is set in the very non desi ancient Rome taking us through the beginnings of the King Arthur legend.

In the film, Romulus, the last emperor of the Roman Empire, escapes imprisonment by rebels aided by his teacher Ambrosinus (Sir Ben Kingsley) and the general Aurelius (Colin Firth). Accompanying the group is Byzantine warrior Mira, played by Aishwarya. Together they continue their mission to restore the empire.

Desis falling in love and saving the world. Sounds like all is right with the universe.

Marigold,
www.marigoldthefilm.com

Last Legion, www.lastlegion-movie.com

Happy Anniversary!

Israel and India together forever. How sweet.

To celebrate 15 years of India and Israel’s hot diplomatic love for each other the Israel Museum in Jerusalem, Israel, will play host to the “From India with Love” Festival.

Among the many highlights, Kavita Dwibedi, world renowned Odissi dancer, will perform several shows at the museum, from August 17^th- August 20^th. The dancing queen has toured all over the U.S. and Europe, performed at almost every major dance festival in India, and appeared on CNN and the Discovery Channel.

Purbayan Chaterjee, sitar player virtuoso, will also be on the bill performing during the festival. The talented Purbayan has been stringing away at the sitar since he was 4, winning the prestigious President of India award for best instrumentalist at age 14, and bringing his sweet sounds to various corners of the globe ever since.

Besides the requisite music and dance there will be art exhibitions, puppet shows and storytelling (for the kiddies) as well as guided tours.

Of course, no festival South Asian festival would be complete without a nod to Bollywood. To make sure that Bollywood is represented, several movie theaters in both Jerusalem and Tel Aviv will be showcasing a variety of crowd pleasers.

Here’s to fifteen more years of diplomacy and goodwill. In the words of the Beatles “All You Need is Love”.

The Israel Museum, www.imj.org.il

Jai Hind!

Woo hoo!! 60 years of independence from the Brits. Go team! Here’s a list of events around the globe commemorating the day.

New York: To commemorate the big day, the ubiquitous Aishwarya Rai will be immortalized at Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum on August 15^th, making her the first Indian to be showcased in the New York location. Although Aishwarya will not be there in person, the unveiling will feature a Bollywood dance performance to celebrate the event. On Sunday August 19^th, Bollywood babe Priyanka Chopra will lead the parade as Grand Marshall with Johnny Lever as chief guest. The parade starts at noon heading north on Madison Avenue at 23^rd Street making its way up to 41^st.

Dallas: On Saturday the 18^th, Texans can celebrate independence at Anand Bazaar. With over 140 booths, the Anand Bazaar at Lone Star park, will feature arts and crafts, dance performances, a parade and fireworks (sparkles!) and of course deeeeeeelicious desi food.

Chicago: The India Day Parade will start on Devon Avenue on Sunday August 18 at 12 noon. Guests include Indian astronaut Sunita Williams, actress Mausmi Chaterjee. After the parade, revelers can look forward to a super festive mela at Warren Park.

Edinburgh: A day long festival of Indian dance, music, and food will take place at Ross Bandstand on August 18th. Revelers will see get to see a Kathakali dance extravaganza, watching as dancers perform traditional Hindu epics. In addition, Orkestra del Sol and the Drumaoban Highland Dancers will give a performance, while the Scottish-Indian Arts Forum will hold a Bhangra and ceilidh dance in front of the bandstand.

London: In addition to the numerous festivities as part of the India Now festival, the city also offers activities for the more intellectually minded. Until October 7^th, check out “The Countdown to Freedom” exhibit at the British Library. The exhibition includes newspapers, leaflets, posters, and other material, (much of it banned by the British at the time) relating to the Indian freedom movement.

Berlin: Until August 15th, celebrate all things Bollywood with the Bollywood at the Babylon Theater film fest. The movie theater will be featuring classics such as Umrao Jaan, as well as Hum Tum,Bunty aur Babli, and the debut of Guru, starring Abishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai or as we like to call them Abiwarya. And if all else fails, you can always crack open a Kingfisher, rent Gandhi and have your own little independence day celebration.

“You must be the change you want to see in the world”. – Mohandas “Mahatma” Gandhi

Cross Pollination

As most desis already know, India is not all monkeys and elephants, Bollywood and dancing girls. Here’s your chance to show all your non-desi friends everything India has to offer.

Starting today August 10^th, ICM (one of the top talent agencies in L.A.), MGLOBAL Trust, UCLA, and Artwallah, L.A.’s premier South Asian arts organization will present India Splendor, a distinctly unique festival focusing on the subcontinent’s contributions to arts, spirituality, technology, and business.

Some of the highlights include a screening of Shah Rukh’s new movie Chak De, a tribute to Raj Kapoor, a screening of Gandhi, followed by a Q & A with Sir Ben Kingsley, a Suneet Varma fashion show, and an interactive all day art workshop with various Indian artists where viewers will be able to watch the painters as they create. The resulting works will be sold by silent auction.

The 6-day festival, themed “Heritage, Holistic, and Hi-tech”, aims to show audiences a “vibrant new India” as well create collaborations between the L.A. and Mumbai film industries.

Hmmmm, does this mean Abishek might become the new Brad Pitt??

To buy tickets, visit www.indiasplendor.com

Bollywood Beats

“So what do you want to do this weekend?”

“I don’t know. I was thinking getting really dressed up, blow $200 on dinner and drinks at an overpriced restaurant/bar/club, while I have drunk guys hit on me.”

Wow, sounds super fun.

Here’s a better idea. DJ Rekha, innovator of all things desi and DJ related, is spinning for one night at Prospect Park in Brooklyn, NY, as part of Celebrate Brooklyn’s summer long festivities. DJ Rekha brings the ever popular Bollywood Disco to the park with Hum Kisi Se Kum Nahin. For a mere $3 donation, revelers can enjoy Bollywood grooves in a gorgeous park under the stars. (Can we say date night?)

The woman, who was named best DJ in NY by New York Magazine and “one of the most influential South Asians” by Newsweek, still draws the crowds after 10 years as a DJ, with both Bollywood Disco and Basement Bhangra. And when she’s not too busy spinning, she might be lecturing at your local university or playing alongside Outkast and The Roots. Not too shabby for a Punjabi girl from Queens.

Of course if you’re not in NY, you can always buy DJ Rekha’s upcoming Basement Bhangra CD coming out this fall. An ipod, a little wine, a few samosas, and you can have your own little picnic in your local park.

Sure beats getting hit on by drunk guys.

DJ Rekha, www.myspace.com/djrekha Celebrate Brooklyn, www.celebratebrooklyn.org

Falu La La La

Pause. Rewind.

If you think you know fusion music think again. Or better yet don’t think, listen. With a voice to rival Lata’s, Falu seamlessly weaves classical Indian vocals with alt-pop/rock melodies to crowded venues all over New York.

The lady from Mumbai was trained as a classical singer studying with the likes of Ustad Sultan Khan, before moving to New York to start her self-titled band. Citing everyone from the Beatles to Kishori Amonkar as influences, Falu is an unexpected surprise in a sea of blah. In addition to performing with Yo-Yo Ma’s Silk Project, she has also collaborated with Wyclef Jean for Angelina Jolie’s directorial debut A Place in Time and Karsh Kale among others.

To see her live is truly a gift, as Falu gives a fantastically electric performance every time. If you're in New York, you can catch her at the upcoming CD release party at the Canal Room on August 8th. And if you can’t see her live, (boo!) watch for her new self titled CD dropping August 7^th For a little preview, check out songs on her myspace page, www.myspace.com/falu.

If only all music sounded so sweet.

Falu, www.falumusic.com

The Desis are Coming!

Have you ever noticed how after someone becomes rich and famous suddenly everyone wants a piece of the action? Well India is no different.

As part of the mayor of London Ken Livingstone’s India Now celebration Trafalgar Square in London will host a festival of all things Indian. From now until the 19^th of August, you can catch specially commissioned performances by some of the leading dance South Asian artists, including dance, “Dreaming Now” by Akademi, theatre, “JUGGERNAUT Tara in the Sky” by Tara, and music by DJ Ritu.

And that’s not all, the India Now celebration which continues into September, also showcases native Indian wildlife at the London zoo, readings of Ramayana at the Wellcome library, tastings at Café Spice Namaste, and a Manish Arora exhibit at the Victoria and Albert museum.

The reason for the mayor’s interest in India? To strengthen India (can we say burgeoning superpower??) and London’s growing economic and cultural relationship while welcoming Indian companies and trade to the city. To help revelers out, Time Out has even produced a special 28 page special on India Now. How times have changed!

All this without the cost of flying to India. What more can you ask for?

For more details on the Trafalgar Square festival visit www.london.gov.uk. Performances are every Thursday and Friday night at 6 and 8pm respectively as well as Saturday and Sunday afternoons at 3pm.