Aasha Bhosle: The Essence of Star Power

Indian singing legend credits her great success to a strong work ethic writes P.Ramakrishnan.

As if singer Asha Bhosle wasn't legendary enough - and we don't use the term lightly - she received some extra heavy metal for her overcrowded trophy room this month. Not only was she honoured at the 10th Pune International Film Festival for her "outstanding contribution to Indian cinema", but the Mumbai media house, Screen, also presented her with a lifetime achievement award.

Bhosle, 78, has at least 31 other such similar felicitations, including a Grammy nomination and a BBC lifetime achievement award (presented by then British prime minister Tony Blair in 2002). So when Bhosle herself is asked how many trophies line her cabinets, she sounds genuinely perplexed.

"I have no idea," she says, laughing, and turning to ask her son, Anand: "Do you know how many? Well, the most memorable awards were the national awards given to me by the president of India [in 1981, 1986 and a Padma Vibhushan award, the second highest civilian award, granted by President Pratibha Patil in 2008]. The rest, well, it's nice to be mentioned.

"But I have to confess one thing: everything came late to me in life."

Bhosle's achievements are ever-more remarkable as the younger sibling to India's "nightingale", Lata Mangeshkar. Two legendary singers born to the same household, mellifluous careers mired in mumblings of who's better. "I received everything 20 years after it was due to me - fame, recognition, awards," she says. "And the other half of my life got lost in the pointless conversation about who was better: me or my elder sister."

Like the rivalry between operatic divas Maria Callas and Renata Tebaldi, with loyalties divided by fanatics, composers and producers, the rivalry between the Mangeshkar siblings has filled pages of Indian print since the 1940s. But it's an issue Bhosle refuses to address today, after years of supposed musical riffs and rifts. "I respect and love my sister. We meet for every family function. What others say, who is bothered?"

If it's hard to pinpoint who's greater, it's easier to note who has sung more. A few months ago, Guinness World Records officially acknowledged Bhosle as the most recorded artist in the history of music. She was awarded a certificate for "the most studio recordings [singles] for recording up to 11,000 solo, duet and chorus-backed songs and in over 20 Indian languages since 1947".

And Bhosle is still upping the record, as she's in the studio often and tours annually. Clad in her trademark sparkling saris, her hair pinned in a matriarchal bun, her arms and neck festooned with diamonds and pearls, the grandmother of five will be hitting the stage in Hong Kong on February 23 at the Cultural Centre.

Bhosle has performed with artists ranging from Nelly Furtado to Boy George, and even collaborated with boy band Code Red in the 1990s. While some of the names have faded into irrelevance, Bhosle's spotlight hasn't dimmed. She remains one of India's highest-paid singers and the nation's current crop of singing stars literally bow when she walks into a room. Think of Aretha Franklin in a sari, with a strong adherence to traditional Indian values.

Bhosle has sung cabaret songs, classical music, pop, disco and devotional songs in different languages - her vast repertoire performed with a vocal prowess of three octaves.

Why her singing contemporaries' voices have wilted with time while she remains a force to be reckoned with is no mystery. "Perhaps it's because I work just as hard now as when I started," she says. "I haven't forgotten the days of struggle. I know it takes 100 paisa to make a rupee. For years, I travelled great distances on foot and train from home to the studio. For the longest time, I made about 100 rupees [HK$15.30 today] a month. I remember the day I got 2,000 rupees for a recording. It was like I'd won the lottery.

"Today's singers get on a reality show and make hundreds of thousands a year. I have no issue with that, but what kind of fame is it? They still sing our old songs ... They have to make it on their own merit, not as pale imitations. Temporary fame is fleeting."

When asked who she likes among the current crop of singers, Bhosle politely evades the question. "I have no time to listen to [new] songs," she says. "I'm so busy recording or doing TV shows [judging musical reality shows in Mumbai] or on tour. But when travelling, I listen to the old songs. And keeping aside all the politics, I often listen to Pakistani poets and singers, such as Ghulam Ali and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan."

Bhosle strikes an elegiac note when she reminisces about her recordings with other singers from the 1950s and '60s - Kishore Kumar ("Who was the funniest person I've ever met and one of the most gifted"), Mohammed Rafi ("the greatest vocal range and a kind man") and Mukesh ("the perfect gentleman. They say you can't be a good singer if you're not a good person - well, he was a great singer and a greater person").

The current work ethic has changed, as well. "We had a full orchestra and had to perfect a song in one take," Bhosle says. "There were days of rehearsals. If there was a minor error or wrong note, we had to start all over again. And, for the most part, we all got along, as there had to be camaraderie among the musicians. We worked long, long hours. Today, well, you'll be surprised to know that often my so-called duets were recorded in one country, my co-singer in another, and it's all mixed together. And auto-tune, it's the funniest thing I've seen. We're now in an era where you don't have to be a remotely competent singer to sing."

This will be her third concert in Hong Kong, and her memories of the city reflect those of many other tourists.

"I went to Hong Kong in 1986 and in 1989 for shows at Queen Elizabeth Stadium. I remember shopping in Hong Kong after my shows, getting chiffon saris, things for my three children. I don't remember much else. At this age, my interest in shopping has gone, but music hasn't left me, and I haven't left music."

Eternal Asha, Feb 23, 8pm, Concert Hall, Cultural Centre, Tsim Sha Tsui, HK$300-HK$1,200, Urbtix. Inquiries: 6019 0621

P. Ramakrishnan
ramakrishnanp@hotmail.com
Jan 29, 2012


Pic Caption: An Indian national treasure, Asha Bhosle has been entertaining with her records and live shows for decades.

Bollywood golden girl makes a nostalgic homecoming and sizzles at cinema awards

Bollywood actress Katrina Kaif sauntered up the stage at the Venetian Macao at the weekend to pick up the International Icon female accolade at the annual Zee Cine Awards. Her brief sojourn in Macau and Hong Kong came with a whiff of nostalgia for her. “Coming to Hong Kong means a lot to me. Not many people know I was born in Hong Kong and my mum still has friends here,” she said.

With a British mum and an Indian father, Kaif is one of the biggest names in the Indian film industry. She performed a medley of her Hindi songs in Macau to an enraptured audience.

Those who missed Kaif’s sizzling live act now have the chance to watch her on screen in Hong Kong in the Mumbai mafia-based movie Agneepath (Path of Fire), in which she makes a much talked about guest appearance. Dressed in traditional Marathi fisherwoman’s garb, Kaif performs a dance in the den of a gangster, together with a cast of 250.

“You’ve never seen Katrina like this before,” choreographer Ganesh Acharya said. “She looks so delicate and fragile. We added some masala [spice] into her dance. Only she could have done it – she’s super dedicated.”

Kaif rehearsed non-stop for hours before her Macau gig, but that was nothing compared to the preparation for her movie song, which was shot over 10 days. “I work really hard,” she said. “And I know my job.”

By P. Ramakrishnan


Agneepath, in Hindi with English subtitles, screens at 9.30pm today (FRIDAY) and next Wednesday at the Chinachem Golden Plaza Cinema in Tsim Sha Tsui. Tickets cost HK$120 to HK$180.

Zodiac thrillers

The dragon is the most powerful symbol in the Chinese horoscope, so fire up the new year with these red-hot gift ideas
Byline: Compiled by Jing Zhang and P. Ramakrishnan

For her

1. Wrap up in style with this special edition dragon print silk scarf (HK$2,850) from Salvatore Ferragamo, Pacific Place, Admiralty, tel: 2845 2718

2. The Be My Dior Promenade pouch (HK$12,500) in quilted lambskin has lucky charms on its sturdy silver chain. Christian Dior, 1 Peking Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, tel: 2269 5000

3. Add a touch of sparkle with Ben Amun's art deco-inspired crystal brooch (HK$3,990) and earrings (HK$2,690). Available at Harvey Nichols, The Landmark, tel: 3695 3388

4. This sleek women's timepiece by Emporio Armani (HK$2,200) features a silver dragon atop a black sunray dial - in a limited number of 2,012 pieces. Available at Emporio Armani, Gateway Arcade, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui, tel: 2437 1395

For him

1. This black lacquered watch box (HK$229,000) with dragon motif in mother-of-pearl marquetry and mother-of-pearl cabochons makes a timeless gift. Cartier, The Landmark, Central, tel: 2525 1281

2. Make a bold statement with this rich red Burberry Leather Blackford Medium Crossbody bag (HK$12,500). Burberry is at Alexandra House, Central, tel: 2868 3511

3. Dunhill's range of dragon-themed accessories include hand-finished sterling silver cufflinks (HK$2,150). Dunhill, Pacific Place, tel: 2537 1009

4. Add a shot of colour to your wardrobe with these red leather shoes from Sergio Rossi (HK$7,530). Sergio Rossi, Pacific Place, tel: 2918 0872

January 15, 2012

Out shopping

Spring in her step

Hugo Boss' latest spring-summer collection is a return to minimalist, post-modern looks for the brand, with clean silhouettes and muted shades. Get tickled pink with the combination of a soft pink jacket (HK$5,800), blouse (HK$2,850) and skirt (HK$2,500), paired with a tan belt (HK$3,150), shoes (HK$7,150) and clutch (all above; HK$5,600). For a bit of drama, there's the billowy yellow dress (HK$16,800), cut with a simple belt (HK$2,250) and complementing heels (all right; HK$2,150). Hugo Boss is in IFC Mall, Central, tel: 3188 1171.

Flower arrangement

For collectors, Miriam Haskell's iconic costume jewellery is worth its weight in gold, with some even making it to museums. Her more affordable pieces, inspired by the 1920s, are available at Harvey Nichols (Pacific Place, Admiralty, tel: 3968 2668). Highlights include the striking pearl ring (right; HK$3,900) and floral necklace (below; HK$13,900).

Gold fever

With Lunar New Year fast approaching, Sergio Rossi has released a few timely accessories in gold. Featuring a crystal butterfly imprint, the bronzed gold Chinese New Year Capsule Clutch (below; HK$18,560) and gold high-heeled shoes (right; HK$9,860) will help you strut in style this festive season. Sergio Rossi is at Pacific Place, tel: 2918 0872.

Small wonder

German brand MCM has created a downsized version of its classic First Lady bag that retains the contours and shape of the original. The calf leather Mini First Lady bag (above; HK$4,600) features intricate craftsmanship and stitching, and comes in a range of colours. It's available exclusively until March 31 at MCM, Times Square, Causeway Bay, tel: 3425 4051.

January 22, 2012




Hair apparent

New Yorker Colette Malouf's 1920s-inspired hair accessories have been shimmering on the coiffures and weaves of Hollywood's elite - and with good reason. The eye-catching designs are routinely described as "jewellery for your hair" by fashion bloggers. We are loving Malouf's new pieces, in particular the hand-beaded floral headband (right; HK$2,390), the crocheted orchid hair clips (top; HK$1,690) and the sparkling crystal-studded hair pin twin-set (above; HK$1,590). Colette Malouf is available at Harvey Nichols, Pacific Place, Admiralty, tel: 3968 2668.

Put a ring on it

We are loving the collection of fiendish pleasures at Pretty Dangerous, a Hong Kong-based online shopping portal that offers a range of jewellery with a wicked edge. Standouts include the silver Galactica ring (far left; HK$3,200), with its hard-rock cool, and the devilishly delish Cranium Damien sterling silver ring (left; HK$2,850). Pretty Dangerous products are available at www.prettydangerous.com.hk.

In the name of the rose

For the Moroccan-born Israeli designer of the French house of Lanvin, Alber Elbaz, winter is no reason eschew beautiful flowers in full bloom. A flora-and-fauna-themed line (albeit in muted shades or in stark black and white) hit the catwalk this season. Particularly popular (and selling out fast in Central) are the rose-print dresses, including the puffy, girlish black-and-white version (far left; HK$44,000). The dark number with a distressed U-shaped top (left; HK$31,500) also gets our vote. Lanvin is in IFC Mall, Central, tel: 2234 7323.

Take a shine

Put your right foot forward this new year in a Badgley Mischka sequined peep-toe shoe (below; HK$3,700). Or, for those big nights out, there's the silver satin-bowed sandal (bottom; HK$3,700). Badgley Mischka is available at Harvey Nichols, The Landmark, Central, tel: 3695 3388.

January 1, 2012

By P.Ramakrishnan
E-mail ramakrishnanp@hotmail.com

Behind the label: Pheres: Designer Narcisa Pheres' eponymous brand

Who started it? Narcisa Pheres launched her eponymous menswear label in Milan, Italy, in 2006, and displayed her first collection at the city's Istituto di Moda Burgo. Pheres' focus on producing the best, handcrafted range of menswear and accessories from neck (silk ties) to toe (exotic leather shoes) made it a hit from the outset. Pheres opened in Japan during the same year it was launched in Milan, then into Singapore in 2008 and Hong Kong last year. 

Why we love it: because of the Italian sheen and shine that rings of la dolce vita. The clothes are lined with materials such as silk, cashmere and wool-silk blends while the bags and shoes are made of the finest - and often exotic - leather. There's a strong adherence to classic design and silhouettes: from its silk ties to classic-cut suits, crisp white linen shirts to the muted shades of the scarves, everything has a refined Italian touch. 

What we'd pick: Pheres' bow-ties (top; HK$2,000 to HK$3,000) have a timeless appeal and we love the black man's bag (below; HK$60,000), but there's also something very cool about the stingray shoes (above; HK$25,000). 

Where can you get it? Pheres is available at Lane Crawford, IFC Mall, Central, tel: 2118 3388. 

Byline: P. Ramakrishnan 

January 22, 2012

Mud, sweat and gears

Byline: P. Ramakrishnan

As an executive director of a large corporation, Ho Ren-hua, 30, has the sort of buttoned up job that is common in a teeming metropolis. But even in the urban jungle, the Shanghai-based Singaporean finds the time and energy to hit the road.

"I was in high school track and field from the age of 12, and then I entered the army at 19, so there was always some form of exercise in my life from early on," he says. "I didn't stop once I was working, as keeping fit and healthy sort of becomes part of your life."

From working out in a gym, playing basketball, to running regularly, he became serious about fitness some years ago while living in New York. He decided to try running a marathon. "The New York City Marathon is one of the best organised and most popular events in the world. I signed up and ran through the city," he says. "By the end of it, I was crushed. You need to train properly."

At 26, he added swimming and cycling to his repertoire and started triathlons. He moved to Hong Kong, where he joined a triathlon club, and his passion for the sport really grew. "Some are better bikers, some swim better, and others run well. Everyone has their strengths and weaknesses, but the aim is to beat yourself," he says. "We all have hurdles and crossing the finish line is the goal. What position you finish in is up to you."

What's been the biggest challenge as a triathlete?

I did very leisurely swimming and biking, but never seriously trained for those disciplines. I wouldn't say I was particularly weak or strong at either - I think I'm balanced in all three disciplines, which I think is the best way to be. I started training hard for all three at the same time and, more importantly, I really enjoy each of them. The mindset should be to enjoy all aspects so you don't bemoan one part.

Is this the best shape you've been in?

I'm lighter than I was 10 years ago. When I was 19, I was 73kg. I feel fitter than ever - though it's not so much about weight but overall endurance.

With age and experience what's been a big lesson?

The importance of rest. Most triathletes learn to manage their body better. It's a really good thing to learn with time - you know how your body feels and you listen to it. When you're tired or injured, you process it better. When you're young, you spring right back, but as I get older, I'm more mindful.

How is your diet now? Anything particular you do before a race?

To be honest, I don't watch what I eat, normally. I think it's one of the benefits of training so hard. The only thing I do before a race, perhaps a week before, is to cut down on junk food and heavy meals. People do tend to carbo-load before the race, as it's fuel for the body when you race. For me, it's the day after the race that I go all out. Pizza is my great indulgence.

What's the best part of being a triathlete?

It's such a motivational sport. Unlike other sports, you're not in it to win it. We don't all run to come in first; taking part is key. It's a sense of improving yourself. It's the training process. The goal in mind is not to give up. And it's the sport with the greatest camaraderie. People of all ages come together and inspire each other. We talk about the challenges and goals. And living in Asia, we get to meet others and plan events to meet up at, and take part in the great races in places like Phuket, Bali, Hong Kong, Bhutan and Japan. It's a touristic sport.

Why does it seem like such an intimidating sport?

There may be three fields to master at once but it's such an inspirational sport, rather than intimidating. Most of my friends who take part are older than me and they aren't competing with each other but against themselves. I find them so inspirational. The time they're trying to beat is their own, not anyone else's. And everyone has their moments of highs and lows. You're always looking to improve your personal best. I could do this for the next 10 or 20 years.

Do you do any other sport?

I have been doing yoga at least once a week for the past two to three years. My girlfriend also does it. After the intensity of a triathlon, I find it very restorative.

Caption: Ho Ren-hua on a training run in Shek O village. "Everyone has their strengths and weaknesses, but the aim is to beat yourself." Photo: Herbert Tsang

January 17, 2012
Health Post

Bollywood's brightest stars heading for Macau awards extravaganza

A constellation of Indian stars will be shooting over to the Venetian Macao for the annual Zee Cine Awards on Saturday. A ceremony honouring the best and brightest of the Hindi film industry and its all-singing, all-dancing escapades of the past year, the show will feature a roster of top acts, led by the unofficial king of Bollywood, Shahrukh Khan, and former Miss World Priyanka Chopra. They will be hosting a 31/2-hour show with music and dance acts.

Also appearing will be young heartthrobs Ranbir Kapoor (tipped to be rewarded for his performance in Rockstar), Shahid Kapoor (no relation), Vidya Balan (also expected to win for her scintillating act in The Dirty Picture) and gorgeous leading lady Katrina Kaif, who is set to perform her chart-topping dance numbers. Old-school Bollywoodites will perhaps be more thrilled to see the still-stunning Zeenat Aman, a former Miss India and Miss Asia Pacific, who is expected to grace the stage to dish out a few gongs.

The Zee Cine Awards celebrates a billion-dollar film industry, with 14 million Asians estimated to visit the cinema daily and 1,000 films produced annually. If the overwhelming success of the subtitled Hindi film 3 Idiots in Hong Kong and the mainland is any indication, the local cinema circuit will be spiced up with regular Indian features in 2012. Sunil Datwani, a Hong Kong-based Indian film promoter and distributor, said: "I plan to showcase some of the best and most anticipated Hindi films in regular cinemas this year. There's clearly an audience for it."

Ticket prices for this Saturday's show range from HK$988 to HK$6,888. For details go to www.venetianmacao.com/zee_cine_awards.

Byline: P. Ramakrishnan

January 18, 2012