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 Literary LoveAs winters are giving way to the examination season, so many youngsters are rushing to the libraries across the city for studying much more than the prescribed books, says Saurabh Malik SHE tiptoes to his seat in a library for borrowing notes, and leaves with much more than that. English literature student Simran Sandhu takes along with her a wee bit of Rajiv’s concentration. For the next half an hour, his eyes move to and fro between the subject and the object. Finally, slamming shut T.S. Eliot’s ‘The Waste Land’; he invites her for a gossip session in the adjoining happy hunting grounds. —Photo by Pradeep Tewari
Stu-c times Charming Hallways
Taking you for a ride Get popular When colours get united! FILM & FASHION Getting into the root cause Translucent Art Soulful music An artist’s journey Stony expression
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Literary Love As winters are giving way to the examination season, so many youngsters are rushing to the libraries across the city for studying much more than the prescribed books, says
Saurabh Malik SHE tiptoes to his seat in a library for borrowing notes, and leaves with much more than that. English literature student Simran Sandhu takes along with her a wee bit of Rajiv’s concentration. For the next half an hour, his eyes move to and fro between the subject and the object. Finally, slamming shut T.S. Eliot’s ‘The Waste Land’; he invites her for a gossip session in the adjoining happy hunting grounds. The critique of the myth is the last thing on their ever shifting minds as they play the game of affection for about an hour or so before returning back to the library, and the poem’s structure and technique. Reposing on a chair amidst books and literary journals, she smoothens her hair with automatic hand and allows one half-formed though to pass: “Now that’s it over, lets see when he will ask me out for another cup of coffee laced with adoration”. Well guys, for five days now the duo has been doing hardly anything else. Tired of his father’s sermon, correspondent student Rajiv reaches the library at about 10.30 am, instead of studying for impending examinations at home in Sector 16. No wonder, the two take some time out of their busy love schedule to study for sometime before chucking under the chin with books stacked aside. Phew! If you think they are weird, you are out of touch with the academic environment. “Go to the Panjab University campus in the mornings, even in the afternoons, and you will find the two, and so many others, reading the book of love in and around the main library,” says former student-cum-advocate Anil Pal Singh Shergill. “Stand there for half an hour and you will feel love blooming amidst books, and camouflaging green bushes, blatantly and valiantly”. Looking at them from close quarters, a library employee, of course on the condition of anonymity, says, “Migratory love birds have always been visiting the library. But their numbers increase during this time of the year. Almost free from their classes, they push the apprehensions of lecture shortage into the recycle bins of their memories and rush to the library for a lesson or two in love and affection, besides the usual stuff”. Flashing a broad smile, he says, “You see, a visit to the library provides them with a solid excuse to leave the comfort of their homes, even after the classes are over, and meet chums they have spend good part of their university lives with”. Sensing your next question, he smiles: “Nay, not all of them come here for whispering sweet nothings in the silent environs of the library. The university has produced toppers in civil services and other fields…. So many others have made it big in life after burning their free time in the library. It is just like any other institution. You have good students and bad students”. Now, what do you say folks!
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MISSION CHANDIGARH HE has never taken a photograph where the buildings never spoke! For this French photographer, structures in Chandigarh speak eloquently. Michel Dieudonne is in the city on a unique programme. He is here to take photographs of Le Corbusier’s architecture for a special exhibition. It all goes back to the city of Firminy in Central France, which after Chandigarh is the second largest accomplishment of the French architect. A complex built by Le Corbusier in Firminy comprises of a stadium, a swimming pool, a cultural centre and “Unite d’habitation”. The work of another building, the Saint-Pierre Church designed by the architect was left incomplete after he passed away in 1965. The construction has been revived after 40 years and is now nearing completion and will be inaugurated by French President Jacques Chirac in Autumn 2006 along with a photography exhibition, “regards croises franco-indiens” (Indo-French glances) on Le Corbusier’s architecture. This is where Michel comes in. As part of the shared common backdrop between the two cities, an exchange programme of two photographers showing Chandigarh through French eyes and Firminy through Indian eyes is being conducted. The same exhibition will also be held in Chandigarh sometime in 2007 in collaboration with the Chandigarh Administration. While the name of the Indian photographer is still being finalised, Michel, as artiste-in-residence, has been in Chandigarh for two weeks, taking over 1500 photographs on not only the architecture, “which is my prime mission”, but also of its people. The project in India is through his eyes alone and he is going back fascinated with the “sense of proportion” in each of the structures Corbusier built. The Assembly, the Secretariat and the Open Hand—he believes that although the structures differ in the two countries, the style is still the same. The impression of uniformity in the layout of the city changed to subtle differences that he could notice once he started to click. “It is important that it is working. The gardens, the lake, all of it is for the people and they are using them.” This freelance photographer has recently discovered the joys of the digital camera. “My old works were with classic film. But this is fantastic especially for photography at night.” Despite a formal training in architecture, he found his calling in photography. Though a doctor is what he really wanted to be. (“My memory and mathematics were zero!”) However, he does believe that architecture and photography are similar when dealing with the question of proportion and composition. “There is so much interplay between space and light—a harmony which should be in context to each other. It should explain something poetic,” he says enthusiastically, shooting a window in the room to explain his point of space and light more succinctly! The official photographer for the French Theatre Company for 14 years, he prefers to shoot people because that is always a greater challenge. “They do not stand still like buildings.”
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Stu-c times Less than a fortnight after it was launched, “stu-c.com” has become a craze with the students and alumni, says Saurabh Malik THEY whisper sweet nothings at Panjab University’s Students Centre without leaving their room’s comfort. Reposing separately on comfortable chairs, together they log on to a network of excitement by clicking internet explorer before opening “stu-c.com”. Ever since the website was launched by two Panjab University students about a fortnight back, the couple — studying English Literature through correspondence — have hardly been doing anything else. Studies…? Well, they take out some time for T.S. Eliot’s ‘The Waste Land’ and other ‘stuff’, but evening hours are lavishly spent chatting in front of the computer. “It’s more or less a routine now,” asserts Rahul Sharma in an enthusiastic tone. Heaving a deep sigh, the young enthusiast says: “Daily we click open `stu-c.com’ and chat for hours together. You see compared to other chatting sites it’s all very convenient. Moreover, you get to interact mostly with friends and not complete strangers”. Riding high on popularity Well, Rahul and his ‘gal’ are not the only ones opening portals to exhilaration by clicking open the site — almost a craze now. Already the website has registered over 7315 hits. Almost 200 students and alumni from across the world have enrolled themselves as “regular members”. This is not the end of it. The site has Microsoft and so many other organisations as its “privileged members”. “It’s not just dating and interacting opportunities that makes `stu-c.com’ an interesting and worth-visiting site,” says second year MCA student `genius’, who is behind the whole thing Inderpreet Singh Kang. “Besides on-line chatting facility, the website offers discussion forums and a photo-gallery, along with a `department corner’ and university related articles.” Content-wise Flashing a broad smile, Kang says: In fact, the site has every thing you wish to know about the university, its students, their lifestyle and even the courses they are undertaking…. You can even post or procure information, besides help. Even study material, tutorials and placement papers can be downloaded from the site. For ex-students, it has photographs of departments and canteens to take them down the lane meandering through memory. Sounds good! Agreeing, webmaster-cum-first year science student Ankit Aggarwal says: Almost everyone who has or is studying in the university identifies himself with stu-c — a place where you can do much more than chuck under the chin. You can, rather, discuss career options and talk about life in the campus. The site is all about this. Click PU times and you will find campus, sports and stu-c news…. To hell with the rest is the website’s punch line signifying a student’s attitude while studying in the university. One for all Guys, it’s easy to become a member. In fact, anyone can register without pulling out hard currency from his wallet. For, the registration is absolutely free. After you register yourself, your name appears on the “alumni map”, along with the location, making it easier for your long-lost friends to trace and embrace you. Go ahead! What are you waiting for?
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Charming Hallways Hallways offer a glimpse of your personality. This is your first personal space where you lay down the terms of the friendship you are offering to your visitors. You could make it a cozy welcome area or a cool clearly defined hallway.
Courtesy: Beston & Co.
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Taking you for a ride Bollywood continues to experiment while still staying within the realms of commercial constraints. ‘ Taxi No 9211’ is one such movie in that direction. It is about the lives of two individuals. The whole film is about this one big taxi ride that brings out mixed fortunes for the protagonists in the film. This Ramesh Sippy Production ‘Taxi No 9211’ is directed by Milan Luthria ( Raj Khosla’s son) who has earlier directed flicks like ‘Kachche Dhaage’, ‘Chori Chori’ and ‘Deewar — Let’s Bring Our Heroes Home’. Besides Nana Patekar and John Abraham the film also stars Ritesh Deshmukh, Sameera Reddy and Sonali Kulkarni. Dev Kohli and Vishal Dadlani have penned the lyrics. The film has an unconventional score that may not have many hero-heroine songs dancing around the trees but has a situational songs beautifully composed by composer duo Vishal-Shekhar. Yesteryear’s pop sensation Bappi Lahiri makes a surprise comeback as a singer.
— D.P.
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Get popular YOU all might have noticed that most successful people have pleasing and charismatic personality. They have certain unique qualities by the virtue of which people get attracted towards them. They gain popularity and respect wherever they go. Possessing such a pleasing personality is more important than any thing else you possess. Hence following are some golden rules to develop a fabulous personality. Do not miss out any opportunity to give sincere complements to others. Honest and sincere appreciation is one of the greatest gifts one can give to another person.
Make these principles your daily habit and you will notice a remarkable change in the perception of people about you Rupinder Pandwala
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When colours get united!
Yes, exuberance is what colours can bring in into our worlds. So as we wave winters a send-off goodbye, here’s how to romance the best of colours— n You know how to dazzle on a date, but when it comes to uttering something {except those three clichéd words}, you can’t help but sweat. But worry not. Our gaudy colours can come to your rescue. Wear brighter hues like reds, purples, greens and turquoise. Studies have proven that brighter colours actually generate positive vibes and make us feel confident in whatever we do! n If your face looks perfect but body needs a bit of flounce, never cling on to your favourite navy blues or blacks. Go for lighter colours like yellows, mauves, whites and pastels{they are the best bet}.Light colours reflect light and can actually make anybody embracing them look larger in size! n How bout all those who wanna look slimmer? Here, the trick is not just the colours but patterns too. Besides embracing Navy’s, Blacks, Burgundys and purples, go for horizontal patterns and stripes. Vertical patterns expand the viewer’s vision {and so the size of the viewed object} while horizontal ones contract it! n Fond of yellow. Well, don’t go for bright yellows, specially when the sun’s gonna provide you with ample of it soon! Couple it with beiges, mustards , oranges and even crèmes to sober down the effect. n Beige, navy and grey are the colours that reflect a serious personality who means business. So wear them for formal office situations and business meets. n The maritime look has always been in vogue. Sport navy blue if you want to win a discussion or debate. The colour speaks of authority and plays a major role in convincing the other person about what you are saying. n Wear the same one colour {For both you uppers and lowers} if you wanna add a few inches to your look without slipping into those not-so-comfortable pencil heels. One colour does not break the viewer’s vision and makes you look taller. Two colours, on the contrary, break the vision in two parts and make one seem shorter. n Go for the all time favourite Black colour for evening wear. Burgundy, wine and metallic colours can spark off your inner charm too, but Black also makes you look slimmer, upright and in perfect shape. n A conservative look is the best as far is business meetings are concerned. Colours like Beige and grey project a professional and tailored image and are the best. But if you find these too dull, go for the pastel colours against baby pinks, blues and bright yellows as they look more sober than the bright colours. n And yes, embrace the colour that suits your mood and the occasion as well. Like if you are at a wedding party or Sangeet, wearing a dull grey or brown won’t gel with the mood even if it’s your personal favourite.
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FILM & FASHION After four months of their divorce, former celebrity couple Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston have finally divided their properties and assets, which they jointly held before separation.
The pair have concluded their $ 60 million divorce settlement, which entitles the former ‘Friends’ star to assume sole ownership off their $29 million dollar Beverly Hills mansion, while handing over the lucrative film company Plan B Productions to the Fight Club actor, reports Contactmusic.
However, Aniston will also retain a “minor stake” in the production firm, which is believed to be worth more than $ 50 million after a string of 12 successful independent movie releases, including Charlie And The Chocolate Factory.
—ANI Roger Moore lashes out at Kinsgley
Former ‘007’ actor Roger Moore hit out at fellow knighted star Ben Kingsley for insisting on being addressed by his complete title at all times. James Bond left with broken teeth
He may be saving the world from being destroyed by bad guys in his upcoming James Bond movie ‘Casino Royale’, but actor Daniel Craig must be rueing the day he had to fight with some minor actors, for he recently received a punch that left him both bleeding and toothless.
According to a movie insider, the British actor was left bloodied, and with broken teeth while filming a fight scene in the Czech capital of Prague.
“Daniel was filming with some minor actors when he got hit in the face. He was reeling from a heavy blow and staggered back holding his face. He put his hand to his mouth but the blood started to seep through his fingers - it was horrible,” Contactmusic quoted the source, as saying.
—ANI
Madonna gets Kabbalah’s support
Reports that music icon Madonna’s five-year marriage to British director Guy Ritchie is on the rocks have been further fuelled by rumours that the singer has sought the help of Kabbalah rabbis to help save her crumbling marriage.
According to a source, the ‘Hung Up’ singer is distressed by the pressures that are being put on her relationship to Ritchie, and that it has prompted her to seek the counsel of the leaders of the mystical Jewish religion.
They have been discussing what she should do, as being able to hold on to love and making marriage work is one of the things Kabbalism is supposed to help,” the Daily Telegraph quoted the source, as saying.
—ANI Cameron Diaz has narrow escape
Actress Cameron Diaz reportedly had a narrow escape from death when a bird crashed through the windscreen of her chauffeur-driven car.
The 33-year-old actress, who was on her way to film scenes for Jude Law movie ‘The Holiday’ in Surrey, England, ducked when the bird hurtled through the window, covering her and her chauffeur with glass.
But Diaz was saved, as the chauffeur was able to keep the vehicle under control despite suffering from minor cuts, before stopping at a nearby garage.
—ANI
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Getting into the root cause REMOVAL or reduction of unwanted hair for all skin types has never been quite as easy as this, notwithstanding the hole in the pocket! Look at the flip side; no more threading, waxing and plucking for the most advanced laser hair treatment makes its presence felt—permanently and painlessly! According to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, there has been a 53 per cent increase in procedures from 2003 to 2004 and the figure is growing! Obviously, the ‘no pain no gain’ theory goes right out of the window! Having used this technology for the past three years since its inception, the Kaya Skin Clinic in Sector 8C hosted a talk by professor, dermatologist and surgeon Dr Javier Ruiz-Esparza, practicing in California, USA, to speak on hair reduction through laser treatment. Dr Ruiz-Esparza comes with some formidable experience. Having worked with lasers since 1982 (at the Cleveland Clinic which has been at the forefront of laser systems), he has since taught, lectured and practiced all the while keeping up with the latest innovations, “because I owe it to my patients and clients.” Here is a comparison: Method Lasting duration Shaving 1 to 5 days most commonly used Depilatory creams 7 to 10 days softens hair Plucking 1 to 3 weeks painful and time Waxing 3 to 4 weeks painful Bleaching 3 to 4 weeks simply disguises hair Electrolysis permanent painful, removes hair one at a time “Laser treatment is fast, safe and permanent and there is no irritation, discolouration or inflammation,” insists Dr Ruiz-Esparza. This
Nd: Yag laser used at Kaya was invented in 1999 has enough energy to go right to the root of the hair. It is US FDA approved and also allows combination treatments, including anti-aging and skin polishing. It is not only useful for all skin types, but can also be used for hair removal and permanent hair reduction on tanned skin and can also be used to treat the problem of ingrown hair. Right now on a lecture-demonstration mode, Kaya is looking towards a “long-term collaboration” with Dr Ruiz-Esparza to continue to be at the forefront of cutting-edge technology through its Kaya Skin Advisory which is a body of over 120 eminent dermatologists committed to raising the standard of skin care in India. Hence the spa-like appeal when you enter the clinic complete with a spa-like cool brew to take your nervousness at the unknown away!
—G.R.
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Nukkad
mein aayee Rama SHE is most unlike ‘Teacherji’—in fact quite the opposite! Bubbly, vivacious and zesty, she loves to laugh. “I used to tell Aziz Mirza (the director), so what if this teacher is staying alone she can laugh out loud!” This is actor Rama Vij at her feisty best, regaling onlookers with stories about her stint in the ever-green Nukkad. In the city to colour her hair—well literally (she did have a wedding to attend!) at the Strands Salon in Sector 35, she sits nonchalantly with her hair all crimped up! Twenty-five serials, umpteen Hindi movies and 12 Punjabi films later, this FTII graduate (from 12,000 girls that year they chose 12 and she was one of them!) still remembers her first film with fondness. “I shot for Pal Do Pal Ka Saath with Shekhar Kapur at Panchmarhi. We have a whale of a time, lots of masti and Kapur was a mast banda!” Now with two production houses, ‘Sensitive Media’ and ‘Action Reaction Communication’ and three serials (Misaal, Sab Ko Pata Hai and Beeji ke PG) produced by her in her kitty, she has run through the gamut that stardom offers. “My career may not have been great but I found my place. That is okay because I have my way of doing things and I do not compromise.” It is this spirited attitude that brought her to her now 15- year-old passion—motorcar racing! How did it happen? “Just like that” is her patented reply! “I had an accident and I was in bed for three months. My car had to be done up and I thought the best way to start driving again was to go for a rally!” So Delhi-Agra-Delhi it was and today 18 trophies later it is the Ferrari no less that she dreams of, “but I cannot afford it!” Anything left, any dream roles? “Bend it Like Beckham—a film related to sport—maybe I can be a coach now in a film and the male lead can be played by an older man,” she winks. Time to leave her to her hair colour—a delicious Mocha base with Latin Chocolate highlights!
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Translucent Art Not just the hotels lobbies, even houses are being decorated with stained glass paintings, says Saurabh Malik ARTIFACTS carved out of stained glass are cutting an edge like never before. And it’s not just hotels and restaurants that are brightening up the rooms and halls with colourful object d’art. Trot down the lobbies leading to the living rooms of so many houses in the city and you will find silhouettes of mermaids and even golfers imprinted on the glass walls. Yes, folks! It’s clear as crystal. Fragile glasswork is the latest scream amidst residents renovating old houses or building new ones. Costing less than a home theatre system, more and more house owners are showing off good taste and class with the translucent fashion. “It’s elegant, delicate, reflects much more than your image and hardly requires any space,” says Ravi Chawla, running her own stained glass workshop in the city for over two decades now. “No wonder, residents are installing stained glass paintings in the rooms instead of just hanging sceneries on the walls”. Well, Chawla knows what she is saying. For, she has not only made players out of glass at the Chandigarh Golf Club, but has added a touch of upper class to houses located in the posh northern sectors, even mundane southern ones. Like all other artists, Chawla can make just anything by painstakingly joining bits and pieces of glass in different hues and textures, or by treating the glass with acid. You can have an ocean with wild waves breaking at the shore or even a goddess in front of you. Just in case you are planning to treat the commonplace with the feeling of sublime, remember to get in touch with a stained glass artist at least two months in advance. For, that’s the period even a veteran takes to breathe life in glass. “To begin with, glass has to be imported from parts of the world. Then you have to use your imagination and trace down the patterns on the glass,” says Chawla. “After completing the process, you have to cut and grind the glass of different shades to fit in the pattern. In the end you have to solder the glass pieces together before preserving them between two sheets of glass”. Phew! Sounds tough! Chawla agrees, but insists that the effort is worth the end product. For it adds charm and colour to life. Over and above, it’s permanent. “If you do not break the glass by throwing it or hurling something at it, the art will remain intact for all times to come. For, the stuff is not made of colours that fade into oblivion with the passage of time,” Chawla insists. She reminds you of John Keats’ “Ode to a Grecian Urn”. In any case folks, see the work, you will like it.
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Soulful music Meet this budding singer Rupanjali Sharma. But she is the one with a difference. When youngsters of her age is busy doing remixes, Rupanjali preferred to do a religious album to start with. “My voice is apt for melodious songs and I particularly like singing bhajans, says engineering student from Rayat and Bahra College of Engineering and Biotechnology. Rupanjali’s debut album along with male singer Ankit Balhora, Ghar Aiyo Shyam was released recently. The lyrics have been written by Shyam Lal Pawri and music has been given by Harish Mangoli. —TNS
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An artist’s journey NATURE'S bondage with the artist commune is everlasting. They never seem to tire while capturing the beauty nature in various forms and techniques. The latest to join the brigade is Renu Aggarwal, an amateur artist, who held her first exhibition at IndusInd Art Gallery. Titled as ‘Vista’, the exhibition showcased 20 of her paintings, which she described as ‘a manifestation of the feelings that nature evoked in her.’ As she tries to satiate, what she calls ‘her desire to capture the varied moods of nature’, we are presented with a series, some in bright colours and some in semi-abstract form. Her signature style is splashing of bright colours, sometimes a bit too bright, but in this particular series she has experimented with oil colour in dilute form which has paid off, especially in a few of her paintings like Fragrance, Down of New Hope, A Journey Called Life, Togetherness, Monsoon Glory and The Unexplored. The dilution has helped her giving her paintings a much softer look, the softness like one expects to see in water colours. The character in her paintings comes from the thick and bold application of black colour in abundance. As we trace the journey of this artist, she comes out to be a woman who paints for the love of painting. An MA in English, Renu revived her childhood hobby by joining the Bama Academy of Fine Art. Renu has a couple of group shows to her credit.
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Stony expression
ARTISTIC expression’ in shape and form communicates feelings and emotions. That is why we rely so heavily on our instincts while judging the value of ‘art’. A galaxy of such aesthetic statements in ‘sculpture’, as beautiful as rare they are, adore the otherwise calm ambience of the Kalgram complex. Another four such masterpieces were just added to the repository of sculptures of Kalagram following the just concluded Sculptor’s camp. The art works showcasing the talent of four Delhi-based sculptors seemingly were vying with one another for better recognition and holding the maximum attention of the viewers. As Rajeev Kumar bared the semblance of serene spiritual content and symbolic truths about his creation Ant Queen or Mandir Mein Ghar, one is amazed to see the amalgamation of two diverse themes. Created in granite pink stone, the sculpture defines the industrious nature and prowess of the ant as the insect is blessed with power to carry seven times load than its own weight. The formation of a feminine figure, apparently to generate attraction and the neatly polished sculpture with scores of ants besides a Shivling denotes a temple giving meaning to the artists perception of Mandir Mein Ghar as he suggests another title for his creation. Rightfully decorated Professor M.S. Shahid Zawed of the Jamia Millia University brought alive the anguish and tormenting soul of womanhood in his classic marble creation Nasoor. Through a precise application of light and shade on the human figure Zawed had infused life into life into the marble enriching its philosophical content as it seems to sigh in grief, lament the atrocities and yet accepting the life as it is. Though a freelancer but having a rich experience and expertise Shrikant Pandey, a veteran of over 1000 sculptures proved his mettle generating a Fairy, the symbol of beauty and benevolence, out of the stone. The over riding inspiration for creating Pari Maa the winged fairy, came from the innocent children, says Pandey, a Bachelor in Fine Arts with a record participation in art exhibitions. Christened as Bada Babu but the youngest of the team, an MFA student from Jamila Millia University, he is engaged in the task of deep self-excavation. It was prominently apparent in his creation Alone, which features a goat in a jungle, as illustrated through hues of nature and the forests in the backdrop. Babu had attempted to capture the Budha philosophy in nurturing positive values as he reiterates that none comes to your help when you really need. All four sculptors were appreciative of the interaction they had with the inquisitive visitors, which they call it a greater learning experience.
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The Saint He is well known in the media circuit as Baba, and he has been carrying that tag really well since the past 25 years. Ever since he played the role of Sai Baba in 1977 for a film by Manoj Kumar, Sudhir Dalvi has never been tired of essaying the coveted role repeatedly. As he takes on a yet another journey to play Baba in Shirdi Ke Sai Baba currently on SaharaOne, he talks about the inspiration, spirituality, fan following and more. You have definitely come a long way since the first time you acted as Sai Baba. How different has your portrayal been for each of the occasions? This is the fifth time that I’m essaying the role of Sai Baba. Earlier it was twice in films and the other two in television. This time with Shirdi Ke Sai Baba, the format is different, although the spirit, the preaching and goodwill of Sai Baba will continue to be echoed. This time, the stories have been taken from the real-life instances where people are continuing to experience Baba’s presence amongst us in their lives. The instances here are more contemporary. What were the preparations you have made to play the role this time? I did not have to prepare myself especially for the role of Sai Baba this time. Way back in 1977 when I had done the first film, Sher Shivaji felt that I had the serenity in my looks to play the role of Baba. The late music director Pandurang Dixit gave me instances about the ways of Sai Baba. How he got to know about Baba is also interesting. He was in his mother’s womb when she encountered and lived with people who had themselves lived with Baba! So all the stories about Baba was passed down until I got a chance to depict all of that whenever I have cast to play the saint. Do you think there is an audience for serials like Shirdi Ke Sai Baba? I think saints like Sai Baba bring about the essence of India and Indian values, through their teachings, thoughts and way of life. In today’s chaotic world what people want is solace and someone to look up to who would give them their peace of mind. Therefore, one tends to automatically become a follower of such saints who have made a profound impact on people’s lives. So I definitely feel that there is an audience for such kind of programmes that reflect a certain kind of spirituality. What have been your experiences with the audiences who have watched you portray the role of Baba? To start with, I am well known as the Baba in the industry! In 2000 when I visited Chicago for a Sai Utsav, people recognised me and they actually touched my feet! It was an amazing experience.
—
D.P.
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TAROT TALK
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AFTER
the success of the Bluff master, filmmaker Ramesh Sippy is once again ready to take centrestage with his much-hyped potboiler ‘Taxi No 9211’ that will hit the Neelam, Chandigarh, Fun Republic, Manimajra and KC, Panchkula.
A
flush here and a brush there— ‘they’ tumble down the desire lane with much furore. And as they pierce through the grey clouds of dullness, a rainbow glistens softly. Deep hues give way to boring blacks and grays. Plush purple, brimming burgundy, olive green, chocolate brown, peony pinks and fiery reds sing a spring melody that fills the air.
ARIES : The Queen of Pentacles blesses you with the finest of quiet and subtle qualities as you are on a winning streak. There would be taxes to be paid and budget to be worked out. Success crowns on Wednesday. Family support and friends add to your feeling of self-confidence. Lucky colour: Golden Yellow. TIP OF THE WEEK: It would be unwise to tip the scales.
LIBRA : This week you may be able to manage the expenses within your income limits. Work wise you may have a tough week. Putting more efforts and hard work may be needed. Also your ideas may take time to get implemented. Student may see their health getting disturbed. Lucky colour: See green. TIP OF THE WEEK: Use careful judgment in handling issues involving property. 
TAURUS : The Prince of Wands rides in his flaming chariot of gold to instigate dynamic changes. Profits are expected from a new deal if it comes through on Monday. Overseas business inquiries are encouraging. Romance may blossom at work place. Keep home and work strictly separate. Lucky colour: wine red. TIP OF THE WEEK: Do not overspend and keep the scales balanced.
SCORPIO:
The Knight of Disks supports you through a busy and tiring week with healing and earthy energy. Working people, career women will do well. Yet they may feel work tensions and pressure. Those in computer line, writing profession may excel this week. Student may need to go slow this week. Lucky colour: Cream. TIP OF THE WEEK: Strictly eschew speculation and journey. 
GEMINI : The 4-Fs — family, funds, food and finance rule the week ahead. Distant horizons are calling you. At the moment, some of your deepest desires, hopes and aspirations are actually available. Those involved in courtship may plan a romantic outgoing. Businessperson will make handsome profits. Lucky colour: Brown. TIP OF THE WEEK: Learn to rely on your mind. 
SAGITTARIUS : The Hanged Man opts for important changes at home and work. You are blessed with spiritual insight and clarity of vision as you move into the new current for the future. You can be dreamy and romantic in personal relationships. Lucky colour: electric blue. TIP OF THE WEEK: Be firm and stand your ground. Do not let anyone get the advantage over you. 
CANCER : ‘The Moon’ brings a karmic situation to the fore as you face a difficult emotional choice till Monday. Enemies and competitors in business cannot touch you or harm your reputation. You can be really happy and also truly sad as destiny takes you through ups and downs. Lucky colour: Silver grey. TIP OF THE WEEK: You need o be creative if you want to retain your grip over your business. 
CAPRICORN : “Four of Wands” advice you not to have any truck with a Gemini or Aquarius. A shopping spree can set your budget aflutter on Tuesday. Swift moving Mercury points towards changes in your love life. Lucky colour: Old rose. TIP OF THE WEEK: At work don’t hold back anything from your employer. 
LEO : ‘The Princess of Swords’ brings you face to face with truth and clarity in personal and professional situations. You will network, mesh, interact with others but may be inclined to be touchy, imaging, neglect or the lack of attention. A business-cum-pleasure trip is on the cards! Lucky colour: Yellow. TIP OF THE WEEK: A positive and caring attitude heals old wounds.
AQUARIUS : This is your chill out time, which is how you like it as much as possible. Yes you may be a gentle soul, but your impact can still be enormous. Previously illusive work falls in your lap mind your health on Tuesday. Romance become exciting on Monday and Wednesday but take no one at face value. Lucky colour: Lotus Pink. TIP OF THE WEEK : Remember never to fall for rash promises.
VIRGO : Do not allow work to become a drudgery but keep your enthusiasm alive. Your ambitions are realized in this week if you continue to be persistent in your efforts. Health problems are resolved by Tuesday. You manage finances and resources well to conserve your professional strength and material stability. Lucky colour: Crimson. TIP OF THE WEEK: Leave things open ended for best results. 
PISCES:
‘The Wheel of Fortune’ spins in some good luck, travel and opportunity in your life. A good time to make breakthroughs at work and changes at home. Tackle difficult tasks and tough people on Monday and Thursday. You get past health problems quickly and get ready for a happy journey. Lucky colour: Baby pink. TIP OF THE WEEK: Boost your confidence with positive thinking.