Latest news with #Nayyar
Hindustan Times
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
A savvy music composer who re-imagined rhythm, with a blend of Indian and Western beats
MUMBAI: He loved to hate the world of Hindi cinema; gladly crossed swords with movie moghuls whose films became runaway hits because of his music. He refrained from doling out songs to Lata Mangeshkar, the reigning playback singer of the time, and yet held sway on Hindi film music for two decades. These delicious paradoxes define the life and times of Omkar Prasad (O P) Nayyar, the maverick composer whose birth centenary celebrations are underway in the city. A Nayyar event was held at an auditorium in Mulund recently by the cultural department of the state government. 'We are planning more such tributes to the great maestro. His music is inimitable. He has stood time's test,' said Adhita Lele, who presented the Nayyar show in Mulund. Nayyar burst upon the music scene in the 1950s — a 20-something Partition refugee from Lahore (his beloved 'Lawhore' where he was born in 1926) with savage confidence, he held his own against titans such as Anil Biswas, Naushad Ali, C Ramchandra, Shankar-Jaikishan and S D Burman. Nayyar re-imagined rhythm, blended the traditional Indian 'theka' with Western beats and chose his musical instruments — whether double bass, clarinet, saxophone or a soft, serene 'sarangi' — with great care to enhance a song's tonal quality and aesthetics. The 'ghoda-gadi' beat, Nayyar's USP, spawned a basket of breezy ditties down the decades: 'Yoon toh hamne laakh haseen dekhe hain', 'Laakhon hai yahan dilwaale', 'Ankhon se joh utari hai dil mein', 'Pukarta chalaa hon main' and, of course, 'Piya piya mora jiya pukare', the Asha Bhosle-Kishore Kumar duet from the film 'Baap Re Baap', which figured in the Binaca Geet Mala's annual list in 1955. 'Nayyarsaab worked hard on beat as no other composer did. He used 'jhap-taal', fairly unfamiliar to Hindi cinema, for 'Savera kaa suraj tumhare liye hai', the haunting Kishore Kumar number from 'Ek Baar Muskura Do'. This gave his songs a deeply musical quality,' said noted musician Suraj Sathe. 'Asman', Nayyar's debut film, was a miserable flop. 'Chham Chhama Chham' and 'Baaz' too met the same fate. However, 'Aar Paar' (1954) catapulted Nayyar to stardom, thanks to Guru Dutt. The legendary film maker urged Nayyar, who was weaned on the slow, pensive songs of New Theatres of Calcutta (now Kolkata), to switch over to peppy numbers. In fact, a well-known story in the industry is that Dutt took Nayyar to Rhythm House, the once iconic but now-defunct record shop at Kala Ghoda, and gifted him records of Elvis Presley, Bing Crosby, Dean Martin and Nat King Cole. 'No harm in getting inspired by Hollywood music,' Dutt had pacified a hugely embarrassed Nayyar, it is believed. 'At least four 'Aar-Paar' songs — 'Kabhie aar kabhie paar laaga teer- e- nazar', 'Elo main hari piya', 'Hoon abhi main jawan' and 'Babuji dheere chalna' are adored by music connoisseurs, while the Gen-Z loves to groove on the zany beat of 'Jaane kahaan mera jigar gaya jee,' from 'Mr and Mrs 55,' said Rajil Sayani, noted music chronicler and son of the late Ameen Sayani, the renowned broadcaster. 'Also, 'Aye dil hai mushkil jeena yahaan,' the mellifluous Geeta Dutt-Mohammad Rafi duet from 'CID', topped the 1956 'Binaca' chart,' Sayani said. Pointing out that Nayyar added colour to Hindi cinema's plaintive black-n-white era marked by sorrowful melodies much before cinema went Technicolour and Gevacolour, noted musician Arvind Haldipur said, 'Nayyarsaab had a style of his own. He never aped his peers. His fast-paced numbers went down well with the audience that was craving a change in film music.' Cinema chroniclers say Nayyar will long be remembered for 'Mera naam chin chu', the oomph-oozing Geeta Dutt number from 'Howrah Bridge' made immortal on the silver screen by Helen — and, of course, 'Yeh hai Bombay meri jaan', the industry's handsome tribute to the city. Although not trained in Indian classical music Nayyar could come up with 'Chhota sa balama ankhiyan neend churai ley gaya ho', a soul-stirring number from 'Raagini' (1958) in Raag Tilang. Also, he set to tune all 'Phagun' (1958) songs in Raag Pilu. 'Nayyarsaab had music streaming in his blood,' said Sathe. According to Sayani, top musicians such as Pandit Ram Narayan, Manohari Singh, Parshuram Haldipur, Ram Singh and Sebastian were eager to work with Nayyar because he adhered to a well-planned schedule, and saw to it that the artistes were paid good remuneration, and on time. While Nayyar teamed up with renowned filmmakers of the time such as B R Chopra, Guru Dutt, S Mukherjee and Shakti Samanta, he was happier doing low-budget flicks, with funny titles such as 'Baap Re Baap', 'Bhagam Bhag', 'Mr Lamboo' and 'Mangu', as producers pampered him, said a musician. Also, he chose Asha Bhosle over Shamshad Begum and Geeta Dutt as his favourite female voice after 'Naya Daur'. In doing so Nayyar contested Mangeshkar's numerous uno status. Once Geeta Dutt rang up Nayyar to ask him if he had forgotten her. 'I had no answer. Actually, it was Geeta-ji who had recommended my name to Guru Dutt during 'Aar-Paar' when my future seemed bleak. However, our 'karma' determines our life,' Nayyar said in an interview. Film experts say Nayyarsaab invested Bhosle with a style to suit the romantic thrillers of the 1960s, awash with colour and often shot in the snow-capped Himalayas where ladies in bouffants — Sharmila Tagore, Asha Parekh and Sadhana — cavorted with Shammi Kapoor, Biswajit or Joy Mukherjee in musicals such as 'Kashmir Ki Kali', 'Sawan Ki Ghata', 'Ek Musafir, Ek Haseena' and 'Mere Sanam'. The Asha solos under Nayyar's baton are a class apart : 'Chhota-sa balama' ('Ragini'); 'Aaj koiee pyaar sey dil ki baatein kaha gaya' ('Sawan Ki Ghata'); 'Koiee keh de zamane sey jaa ke' ('Baharein Phir Bhi Aayengi'); 'Yeh hai reshami zulfon ka andhera naa ghabaraeeye' ('Mere Sanam'); 'Yahi woh jagah hai' ('Yeh Raat Phir Naa Aayegi'); 'Akeyli hoon main piya aa' ('Sambandh') and 'Balama khuli hawa mein' ('Kashmir Ki Kali'), among many other numbers. However, the Nayyar-Bhosle alliance went sour by the end of the 1960s only to make space for R D Burman. Recorded on a balmy August morning in 1972, 'Chain se hum ko kabhi aap ne jee ne naa diya', Nayyar and Bhosle's last song together, is an ode to love, separation and loneliness. Nayyar lived in self-imposed exile for over three decades, making occasional appearance, in his trademark silk shirt, trousers and hat, at a television musical show or a live concert of his songs. He died in January 2007.
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Business Standard
21-05-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
ITR-U changes:Fix tax return errors of up to 4 years but with extra charges
To encourage voluntary compliance, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has notified an updated mechanism for filing income tax returns through ITR-U. Taxpayers now have up to 48 months from the end of the relevant assessment year to correct errors or omissions in previously filed returns, double the earlier 24-month period. However, this extended window comes at a cost. ITR-U is applicable to any individual or corporate entity that has omitted or misreported income, missed deductions, or failed to file returns altogether. What's new in the updated ITR-U? According to Ritika Nayyar, partner at Singhania & Co., the amended framework mandates filing the complete applicable ITR form along with ITR-U, as opposed to the earlier simplified standalone format. 'This includes comprehensive financial details beyond just the additional income,' Nayyar said. The additional tax is now levied progressively based on the delay: 25 per cent of tax and interest if filed within 12 months 50 per cent for 12–24 months 60 per cent for 24–36 months 70 per cent for 36–48 months Sandeep Bhalla, partner at Dhruva Advisors, added that taxpayers must also disclose the source of additional income, provide specific reasons for updating the return, and complete a more detailed verification process. Importantly, the form cannot be used to claim refunds or reduce existing tax liabilities. 'The aim is to regularise tax liabilities before detection by authorities. Penalties under ITR-U are significantly lower than those for tax evasion,' Nayyar noted. Bhalla highlighted that this facility offers a final chance to rectify inconsistencies, such as unreported interest, rental income, or capital gains, particularly if discrepancies appear in the Annual Information Statement (AIS) or Taxpayer Information Summary (TIS). Opportunity and limitations While the 48-month window offers flexibility, both experts cautioned against misuse. 'ITR-U cannot be filed if search or survey actions have been initiated, or in cases involving serious proceedings under laws like the PMLA or Benami Act,' Nayyar said. Taxpayers are urged to match all disclosures with Form 26AS, AIS, and TIS. 'Accuracy is critical. Errors can invite scrutiny despite the voluntary nature of this facility,' Bhalla warned. Final word
Time of India
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Kunal Nayyar admits he couldn't stop laughing on The Big Bang Theory set
Fans of The Big Bang Theory found the hit sitcom endlessly hilarious—and as it turns out, so did the cast, especially Kunal Nayyar. In a candid chat on The Official Big Bang Theory Podcast that premiered Monday, May 12, Nayyar, 44, revealed he often struggled to keep a straight face while filming as his beloved character, Raj Koothrappali. Speaking to host Jessica Radloff, the actor admitted he broke character 'all of the time' during the show's early seasons. 'I was the worst in the beginning on the show,' Nayyar confessed. 'I broke all the time. It really pissed everyone off, but I couldn't help it. I don't know why.' With a witty script and a cast known for their razor-sharp comedic timing, Nayyar's challenge is understandable. The actor specifically pointed out that filming scenes with co-star Simon Helberg, who played his on-screen best friend Howard Wolowitz, made it nearly impossible to stay composed. 'Simon and I just had this thing,' Nayyar said, laughing. 'He would do something with his face or the way he delivered a line—and boom, I'd lose it.' The Big Bang Theory, which ran for 12 seasons on CBS, featured a stellar ensemble cast including Jim Parsons as Sheldon Cooper, Johnny Galecki as Leonard Hofstadter, Kaley Cuoco as Penny, Melissa Rauch as Bernadette Rostenkowski, and Mayim Bialik as Amy Farrah Fowler. The show was known for its geeky charm, sharp humor, and heartwarming friendships, which clearly extended behind the scenes. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Co-Founder of Google Brain, Andrew Ng, Recommends: "These 5 Books Will Turn Your Life Around" Blinkist: Andrew Ng's Reading List Undo While multiple takes may have delayed production at times, Nayyar's laughter highlights the genuine joy and camaraderie shared among the cast—a key ingredient to the show's long-standing success. For fans, this behind-the-scenes glimpse adds another layer of affection for a sitcom that continues to live on in syndication and streaming.
News18
13-05-2025
- Health
- News18
Hypertension, Fatty Liver, Obesity: Why Our Daily Diets Need a Natural Reset
Last Updated: Experts call for a shift to whole, natural foods and urban farming to combat the growing burden of lifestyle diseases In today's fast-paced world, convenience often trumps nutrition. From quick packaged meals to sugary drinks and ultra-processed snacks, modern dietary habits are not only stripping meals of their natural goodness—they're also silently fuelling a health crisis. Rising rates of hypertension, fatty liver disease, and obesity have made it clear: our diets need a natural reset. 'Modern dietary patterns, often dominated by ultra-processed foods, high sugar intake, and unhealthy fats, are directly contributing to a surge in lifestyle-related conditions," says Dr. Kapil Kumar Kursiwal, Senior Consultant – GI Surgery, GI Oncology, Bariatric and Minimal Access Surgery at Dharamshila Narayana Superspeciality Hospital, Delhi. 'The liver, being a central metabolic organ, bears the brunt of this nutritional imbalance." According to Dr. Kursiwal, Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)—once a rare diagnosis—is now a common condition even among non-drinkers. It's closely tied to insulin resistance and is exacerbated by diets rich in refined carbs, trans fats, and added sugars. Meanwhile, hypertension continues to be a major public health concern, often worsened by excessive salt and processed foods. 'The body is not designed to handle this sustained metabolic load. What is urgently needed is a shift toward natural, whole foods—rich in fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats—coupled with moderation and mindful eating," Dr. Kursiwal emphasizes. 'A 'natural reset' in our diets is not a trend but a necessity." That's where urban farming comes into the picture—as both a preventive and sustainable solution. 'The surge in lifestyle diseases such as hypertension, fatty liver, and obesity is deeply tied to our modern diets, often laden with chemicals and processed foods," explains Maninder Singh Nayyar, CEO and Founder, CEF Group. 'Urban farming, through the production of natural, locally grown foods, offers a powerful remedy." Nayyar highlights how fresh produce grown in urban spaces—like spinach, kale, broccoli, and cabbage—can be game-changers for health. Leafy greens are excellent sources of potassium and magnesium, which help regulate blood pressure. Cruciferous vegetables support liver detoxification and reduce the risk of fatty liver. Herbs such as parsley and cilantro, also easy to grow in compact spaces, further aid liver function and toxin elimination. Additionally, fruits like tomatoes, citrus, and berries, commonly cultivated in home gardens and urban farms, offer high doses of antioxidants, fiber, and essential vitamins that help manage weight and support heart health. 'By embracing urban farming, we are not only improving the quality of our food but also providing our bodies with the necessary nutrients to fight lifestyle diseases naturally," says Nayyar. 'This shift towards natural farming holds the potential to revolutionize both our health and the health of our planet." As both experts assert, this isn't about restrictive eating or the latest superfood trend. It's about getting back to basics—choosing real, unprocessed ingredients, growing what we can, and being mindful of what we eat. A healthier body, a stronger immune system, and a sharper mind might just start with what's on our plate.
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Business Standard
08-05-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
ITR filing for freelancers: Key tax tips to simplify the process
As tax season approaches, India's growing freelance community are navigating a maze of rules and forms. Filing income tax returns (ITR) as a freelancer comes with its own challenges and opportunities. Experts from tax and legal firms break down what every freelancer must know. Choose the right tax regime and form 'Freelancers are taxed just like salaried individuals under the applicable income tax slabs,' said Tarun Garg, Director at Deloitte India. He advised freelancers to compare both the old and new tax regimes each year. 'If opting out of the new regime, it is mandatory to file Form 10-IEA before the ITR,' he added. On selecting the correct ITR form, Garg explained, 'Freelancers should use ITR-4 if they're under the presumptive taxation scheme [Section 44ADA], and ITR-3 if they have complex income profiles like multiple house properties or capital gains.' Ritika Nayyar, Partner at Singhania & Co., echoed this, adding, 'Incorrect form selection is one of the most common mistakes freelancers make.' 'Income from freelance work must be reported under the 'Profits and Gains from Business or Profession' head,' said Garg. He recommended tracking TDS via Form 26AS and collecting Form 16A from clients. Freelancers must also pay advance tax if total liability exceeds ~10,000. Nayyar emphasised the importance of maintaining clean financial records. 'One must keep separate accounts for business and personal expenses and track all sources of income accurately,' he said. Eligible deductions freelancers can claim Freelancers can reduce taxable income by claiming a range of business-related expenses. 'These include rent, electricity, mobile and internet bills, software subscriptions, and even depreciation on laptops and cameras,' said Garg. Nayyar added, 'Proportionate expenses like home office utilities, legal fees, and business travel can be claimed if not using the presumptive scheme. Chapter VIA deductions -- like Sections 80C, 80D, and 80G-- are available in both regimes.' Should you opt for Section 44ADA? Section 44ADA offers a simpler route to tax compliance for many freelancers. 'Eligible professionals can declare 50 per cent or more of their gross receipts as taxable income,' said Kunal Savani, Partner at Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas. 'They are not required to maintain books or get audited, provided receipts stay within ~50 lakh or ~75 lakh, under certain conditions.' Nayyar added, 'It simplifies compliance and exempts eligible professionals from detailed bookkeeping. However, one cannot claim individual business expenses if using this scheme.' Avoid these common pitfalls Experts caution against frequent errors. 'Freelancers often fail to pay advance tax or maintain adequate records,' said Garg. 'This can lead to penalties under Sections 234B and 234C, or missed deductions.' 'Timely filing, correct form selection, and accurate reporting are crucial,' said Nayyar. 'Don't treat it as an afterthought, your ITR is your financial identity.'
