Gutka

Gutka or Guṭkha is a preparation of crushed areca nut, tobacco, catechu, paraffin wax, slaked lime and sweet or savory flavorings. It is manufactured in India and exported to a few other countries. A mild stimulant, it is sold across India in small, individual-sized packets that cost between 2 and 10 rupees (around 3 to 15 cents) per packet. Gutka is consumed by placing a pinch of it between the gum and cheek and gently sucking and chewing. It is considered responsible for oral cancer and other severe negative health effects. As with paan and other smokeless tobacco products, there are preventive efforts to encourage users to quit and young people not to start.

Characteristics

Gutka is a powdery, granular, light brownish to white substance. Within moments of chewing mixing with saliva, the gutkha begins to dissolve and turn deep red in color. It may impart upon its user a "buzz" somewhat more intense than that of tobacco chewing, snuffing and smoking.

Effects

Highly addictive and a known carcinogen, gutkha is the subject of much controversy in India. Many states have sought to curb its immense popularity by taxing sales of gutkha heavily or by banning it outright.

Punit Malhotra

Punit Malhotra (born 13 May 1982) is an Indian film director who works in Hindi cinema. His first film, I Hate Luv Storys, released on 2 July 2010. He is the nephew of famous Indian designer, Manish Malhotra. Manish was the costume designer for I Hate Luv Storys starring Sonam Kapoor and Imran Khan.

Early life

Punit Malhotra was born on 13 May 1982. He was born in Bandra in the state of Maharashtra in India to a Punjabi family.

Career

Malhotra worked as an assistant director on Karan Johar's Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001), Nikhil Advani's Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003), Amol Palekar's Paheli (2005) and Tarun Mansukhani's Dostana (2008). Finally he made his debut as an director with I Hate Luv Storys (2010), which he also wrote.

Malhotra's last movie wasGori Tere Pyaar Mein, produced under Karan Johar's Dharma Productions, starring Kareena Kapoor and Imran Khan (actor) who were earlier paired in Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu.

Filmography

Director

Writer

Assistant Director

Actor

References

External links