Method to Acting
Mona

"When one loses mental balance there are two options — one go to the metal asylum, the other — move to Mumbai," says actor Pradeep Kharb. He chose to opt for the second alternative and has been fortunate enough to make something for himself in a city where millions show up to try their luck almost each day.

In Chandigarh, to announce a workshop in acting in the coming month, Pradeep shares experiences from his decade-long career.

"Born in Rohtak, I grew up in Delhi. I started my career as a web-designer and developer," he says. Now in Mumbai for over a decade, Pradeep has acted in commercials, soaps as well as movies. He has acted in serials such as Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, Kavyanjali and Kasauti Zindagi Kay, and also in films — Fashion, Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani, Khoya Khoya Chand and Ek—Power of One.

Happy with his acting career, Pradeep has ventured into honing the acting skills of new-comers. As director of Indian Academy of Dramatic Arts, Delhi, Pradeep's first stint has been successful. Actors who have passed-out from his school have found work in movies like Vicky Donor (Shoojit Sircar's) and The Reluctant Fundamentalist (Mira Nair's).

But does a decade-long career give him enough knowledge to turn into a trainer for actors? "Well, no experience is enough to train but I have enough to share," says Pradeep quoting Socrates, "The more you learn, the more you realise how little you know." But as for him, he is willing to share few lessons that he has learnt.

"In my institute nothing is theoretical and the emphasis is on practical aspects. Acting is a serious profession and those who want to join this field, need to master the skills and must have the right exposure required for this profession. It's not just about acting, but also about being aware of the actual mechanics of the industry," says Pradeep and that's what he trains people in.

Most of the students who show up in his academy are from small cities and Pradeep is a happy man seeing their progress. "Well, there have been a few youngsters in the academy who came with zero confidence; today it's difficult to stop them," says Pradeep with a hint of pride in his voice. The teacher in him (he trained in computers earlier) aims to make his acting school one-of-its-kind.

Any branches in the offing? "Well, a training school is not a McDonald's. It's easier to make burgers but to find good trainers is a challenging task," says Pradeep, who aims to have the next school in Mumbai.

To cater to the rest, he is bringing his three-day workshops to smaller cities, including Chandigarh. "This workshop will give basic introduction to acting as well as bust many myths associated with movie-making."

Back to him; what does he prefer — movies (he's just wrapped up 'Jodi Breakers' that stars Bipasha Basu and Madhvan) or serials? "If I go by my mother's advice — whichever pays more. But my heart is with the role that's offered. One might get a good role in a soap or a trivial one in movies," says Pradeep.

Last but not the least, what makes one tick in the industry? "Well, good looks can get you a couple of jobs but talent will take you a long way," says the good-looking man with light eyes as he bids adieu in the winter afternoon sun, with a promise to come back soon with his workshop!

mona@tribunemail.com

Life on the ramp
Chandigarh girl Megha Bajaj is out to make waves in the modelling world
Sabia Talwar

MODEL WAYS: Megha Bajaj

Back in school, she always wanted to look pretty and carry smart clothes. As a grown-up, her dream has almost come true —Megha Bajaj from Chandigarh has made it to the modelling world in Mumbai. She has participated in the Chandigarh Fashion Week, and walked the ramp for known designers such as Ritu Kumar, Sonia Gohil and Kanwaljeet in Mumbai. She has done thirty episodes for MTV's Style Check, promo shoots for Channel V, various commercials and print promotions. We catch up with her.

The beginning

Since I was in fifth standard I used to go for theatre and dance workshops; I always dreamt of acting in movies. This was the major reason why I convinced my parents to let me shift to Mumbai. They trusted me and finally I packed my bags in March 2010.

Portfolio matters

For anyone to enter the TV industry, a proper portfolio is a must as natural looks are quite different from what you look like on camera. My very first portfolio was from Delhi by a family friend.

Reality shows

While every youngster runs after reality shows for easy fame, I don't believe in these shows at all. I don't want to appear on small screen, as my dream is to make it big. Till then I'm happy as a model.

Walking the ramp

It is a different game altogether; you have to shuttle between the green room and the ramp; changing for various sequences. As for the attire, some dresses are comfortable and some are not, so it all depends on how you carry yourself. On the ramp, it's just your confidence and expression that matter.

The green room

As every sequence has multiple changes, the green room is more or less like an adda. Here we have to change clothes in front of each other, as we are all girls and no one else is allowed inside. There is a stress situation in the green room. Make-up and hair touches are also a must; so one has to be quite patient.

Attention girls

Rehearsals depend on the amount of time the show organisers give us. Experience makes you more confident and one should be attentive when the pattern is being explained.

Model clan

There are models in the industry who are anorexic, but I keep eating the whole day long as I have to give at least four auditions a day. I work-out in the right manner and take a lot of protein, which helps in burning the fat.

Casting couch

It is very much prevalent in the fashion industry, but even hardwork is recognised. It all depends on whether you want to sell your talent or your conscience.

Obnoxious outfits

I have never done a shoot or will do a shoot where I'm not comfortable with my outfit. I can't relate to revealing my body in a vulgar way; so for me feeling comfortable is very essential.

Offers ahead

I have been giving auditions for Bollywood movies and have received a few offers from some of the new banners as well. But I have not liked any script till now; as I feel I do not fit into any of the roles. As I do anchoring for a lot of events in Mumbai, I think the last resort would be to become an anchor or a VJ.

Hometown attachment

When I'm back in Mumbai I miss my house, family and, of course, home-cooked food a lot.

sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com

Cut for the cold
Trapeze shape, tweed fabric and knee-length dresses are truly in vogue this winter
Jigyasa Kapoor Chimra

With winter setting-in, it is time to update your wardrobe and the big screaming trends for the season are bold colours, structure, sophistication, fitted shift-style dresses; much-needed antidote for the trapeze shape dresses of summer.

Talking trends for winter, the waist has returned. And by this we mean the emphasis is on the waist and whether that is through a big belt, a curvy dress or a pencil skirt, the choice is all yours. "The dresses for winter are sexier and edgier, but definitely not skin-tight. So dresses will remain comfortable this season, leaving you room to breathe," says Divya Kapoor from Samsaara at Hotel Taj in Sector 17. She adds, "Dresses are back this season and the best thing is one has no mushy embellishments, but plain designs and belts to enhance the look. Tweed is one fabric to look out for when hunting for dresses this season."

Since fashion pundits had already prophesied the comeback of dresses for this season, hemlines are styled to enhance the curves. "Most dresses are styled to fall just above the knees and this is perhaps is the most comfortable length for almost all the ladies," says Nidhi Gambir from Walnut. She adds, "The latest is the new shirt style dress and as belts are a big trend this season. Another style is of a wrap dress and this is quite versatile."

For the ones who cannot let the little black dress go, the good news is that it still continues to be the number one choice for women's evening wear. "The little black dress has been considered a fashion staple since designer Coco Chanel first popularised it during the 1920's. And since then, the dress has carried forward the legacy with minor alterations here and there. This season too it remains a hit. This season is all about knee-length dresses and light embellishment. Belts, big or small, being the highlight," says designer Sabah Khan.

She adds, "However, the look for evening wear is classy, regal and sexy. The colours are fit for royalty and it's grey, purple and blue that is ruling the runway this fashion season. Other than these, you will also find sapphire blue, claret red, maroon, deep gold and rust."

Leaf from the past
Author Manju Jaidka’s latest book, Scandal Point, is a piece of historical fiction
Mona

Mouth agape, they stood as though hypnotised by the vision of the sleek black horse, the fair, golden-haired damsel and the tall, dazzling, turbaned rider who held his prize tight, tugged at his reins and galloped down the hill before they could draw another breath! This is how eye-witnesses later recalled the fleeting image of the runaway couple…if you have wondered how did Scandal Point get its name, Manju Jaidka brings a historical fiction.

“There is something about Shimla, the tall pine trees, floating clouds, the stories one hears, which made a strong impression on me,” shared Manju Jaidka on Wednesday as she released her latest book (she already has several publications to her credit, including eight books of criticism, a play and a novel) at Central State Library-17. A frequent traveller to Shimla, Manju made Scandal Point, the focal point of a 240-page fiction that traces the story of Kunwar Kartar Singh and Betty (the then Viceroy’s daughter). The love story takes place against the backdrop of popular centres of the British Raj — Patiala, Shimla, Chail and Lahore.

“Not an ordinary romance, the elopement of 1892 had far-reaching political consequences,” says Manju, who has picked some of the characters and events from official records. “Other details have come down by word of mouth. There are many similar stories in private circulation that were suppressed for political reasons by the British rulers or by the Indians then in power,” she says.

Manju finished this book during her one-year sabbatical from work. “Though it took just two months for the first draft, caught in work and family, it got difficult to take out time and space to complete it,” says Manju.

With Scandal Point out (published by Rupa it’s priced at Rs 195), Manju is already working on many of her half-finished projects. “Most probably the next to go in print would be a collection of poems,” says the writer whose three creative writing projects so far have been from different genres. Her first novel Spots of Time dealt with personal circumstances while The Seduction and Betrayal of Cat Whiskers was a play in the genre of farce.

Green thumb
Plants of lesser god?
Satish narula

One of the horticulturists, I will not name, once while passing near a house plot where some palms were planted, commented that one should not plant palms in the house or plot as it symbolises desert and makes the house a desert. “See, this plot has palms and lies vacant for so many years!” This came as a shocker to me, not because I was listening to this kind of talk for the first time but because it came from an educated person and that too a horticulturist.

Why such misconceptions about the plants? When we talk about the garden, we talk about the trees, shrubs, climbers, seasonal flowers, grass lawn, indoor plants and even ferns. But when it comes to name cacti and succulents, we are apprehensive, whether to include these or not in the garden? Why we dread cacti and what happens when we talk about them? I am surprised when even those with scientific background show fear about growing a specimen or two in the garden especially at the entrance of the house.

Palms and cacti and succulents are one of the most wonderful creations of God. Be it a palm or a cactus or a succulent, such plants are the only green areas in a desert. And if you look towards their contribution towards the conservation of life and bio-diversity in the deserts you will have to change your opinion about these wonders of the nature. Cacti have multiple uses too as some species are used in medicines while others are used as feed. There are some the roots of which are used to quench the thirst. You may have heard those running ‘scare shops’ that it is the negative energy that the thorns of cacti and succulents give that is not good for the house where these are grown. It’s amazing they have forgotten roses, bougainvillea, ber, some species of citrus etc that are full of thorns! If such plants can be grown in the house then why not cacti and succulents? Let me, in the end inform you that when the shastras were written, there was not even a single cacti species that existed in India. Then which cacti they are talking about as taboo and is there any such mention in the holy books? So shed your fears and grow palms and cacti without any fear.

(Narula is a Chandigarh-based horticulturist)

Balle balle!

Balle Balle Gallery, a newly opened fashion and lifestyle store in Phase 7, Mohali, showcases top brands from around the globe and offers an eclectic range of lifestyle products, which are funky and chic. This one-stop international premium brand offers super premium brands like Bvlgari,Versace, Prada,

Vogue, Rayban et el.

You will find time-pieces from around the world - take your pick from a wide array of sporty, retro, classic time-pieces from top league Indian and international brands. In addition, there are a variety of ties, wallets, bags, caps, shirts, handkerchiefs and other fashion accessories to choose from. 

TNS

 

Star track
Who’s hot, who’s not!


Bipasha Basu and Sonam Kapoor

Women love decking up and posing for photos. Take a look at who wore what at recent functions

Bipasha Basu

Same old boring black look from the same old hottie. We do like the messy hair and bright make-up, though. She looks like a cat and we mean that as a compliment.

Sonam Kapoor

This fashionista can pull off different looks and how! The dress is grunge and she looks ravishing and sexy in it. She packs in the right sassy attitude.

Neha Dhupia

She is glowing and we like the tank. Somebody please tell her and the rest of Bollywood that ripped jeans are so last century! She looks sporty enough to go for a bike ride.


Mallika Sherawat

She is trying to look elegant but something seems so wrong. The lips are jarring and so are the black pumps. She should stick to being sexy!

Shazahn Padamsee

We love the pink slingbacks! They jazz up her look. Why can't she dress in a fun way as she is young and pretty? Her clothes are mostly boring. 

Raveena Tandon

The belt is too broad, the lingerie isn't right for the shirt, and we don't like the wedges. We like the pants.

 

 

 

Sportsman's spirit

Aamir Khan is a proud daddy now and Aamir is one man who wants to give his best to the world. Recently Aamir Khan attended a badminton match along with Saina and Gopichand.

Actor unplugged: Aamir Khan

Play on

Sports is an important activity in our life and today I can see India has so many great badminton players. We should promote sports. Because it's just not a sport, it's an activity to keep you well. It's an art and it also increases your concentration power. So, every kid should be playing and a subject on sports should also become essential in school.

I always loved sports, whether it's badminton, cricket or football. I have enjoyed every match. Being an Indian, I am a big fan of cricket but at the same time I have grown up playing badminton in school and with my neighbourhood kids. I have many memorable moments from those days and I still urge my kids to go and play.

Virtual vs real

You can see computer has taken over outdoor games today but I urge parents to motivate their kids to go out and play with other kids. Sports should be an important subject in curriculum. Many parents say no to sports because they want their kids to concentrate on studies. But I believe when you are young and you play more you grow mentally and physically.

Sportiest actors

I think it's Amitabh Bachchan at this age. He will do whatever you ask him to do. He is quite sporty. And I think Akshay Kumar is physically very active and he plays sports too. 

 

 

Dream come true

Director’s cut: Madhur Bhandarkar

Madhur Bhandarkar's dream project Heroine has finally started and Madhur is quite happy with it.

Heroine gets going

Only a director knows what it takes to write a script and what it feels when things don't work out. But finally my hard work has given me results and I have started shooting for Heroine with Bollywood's No 1 heroine Kareena Kapoor.

The ultimate choice

Even when I started writing the script, I had Kareena on my mind and finally I am shooting with her. I don't think anyone else can carry the attitude this character has. She is one of the most beautiful and talented actresses here. And we have started shooting and it's going really well and I can assure my audience that my Heroine will not disappoint you at all.

Kareena is very professional. She is very interested in her character and the film and she comes up with her own idea and more efforts. She has been working very hard. There are few scenes which are very emotional and while shooting them Kareena broke down a few times so you can imagine how much she gets into the character.

Steamy scenes

Bollywood is a place where steamy scenes happen. But my film is about the life of a star. There are few scenes but they are not vulgar.

Watch out

I am planning to release Heroine by 2012. Now, as we have started shooting and we are on the right track. Once everything is done, I will work on the post-production. 

Another Hollywood guest

Hollywood's living legend Robert De Niro is visiting India and Anupam Kher is hosting him. Hollywood seems to be in love with India.

 






                                                                                    In India: Robert De Niro

No sexy tag please

Former Miss India Neha Dhupia started her Bollywood career with bold films like Julie and Sheesha, but later she moved to performance-based roles with Mithya. But the transition was not easy, she says.

"A lot of hard work has gone into revamping the image of a sex symbol. People have built a perception in their minds and to change that I needed a lot of patience. I am happy that my hard work has paid off and today people don't see me just as a sex symbol," said Neha.

Her Julie and Sheesha had a lot of skin show and the subject was bold too, but Neha changed track and did films like Chup Chup Ke, Delhi Heights and Dear Friend Hitler.

"I am really happy with the way my career has shaped up. I have grown immensely as an actor as well as a human being during my career of eight years," she said.

— IANS

 

Frank talk

 

 

Salman Khan has said that he does not care about doing good films. He only wants to do hit films. So, he has turned down Ashtutosh Gowariker's offer of a film. Trust him to tell it like it is!

 



Devil may care: Salman Khan 

 

Ash on a sabbatical

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan will make a comeback to the silver screen after one year. She is nursing her gorgeous baby girl. She is most likely to do her best friend Sanjay Leela Bhansali's film.

 

Sonam goes to South

Sonam Kapoor is trying cinema down South and might do a Mani Ratnam's film.

Help at hand

Farhan Akhtar has to promote Don 2 and prepare for Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. So, he has hired two spot boys to do some menial work for him. So, he has more time to himself.


                                                    
running around: Farhan Akhtar

 

Shilpa awaits the stork's visit

Lara Dutta just had a baby shower and now Shilpa Shetty has announced that she is expecting. Congratulations to Shilpa and Raj Kundra!

chatter box
Neil in Nachle Ve Season 3


Happy feet: Neil Bhatt

Neil Bhatt, who appeared in shows like Gulaal and 12/24 Karol Bagh, is all set to groove in Imagine’s Nachle Ve with Saroj Khan. Neil was pretty excited to dance with Saroj Khan and learn from her.

Neil describes his experience as fabulous. He says, “I think Sarojji is magnificent and a respected dancer. I found it easier to be trained by her because she goes with the lyrics of the song. She choreographs the song according to the lyrics. That’s what I have been doing myself. So it was easier for me to work with her. So far, I had a fabulous time on the show,” he says.

Is he a trained dancer? “No, I am not. That’s the reason I agreed to be part of the show. All that I know about dance is because of Prabhu Deva and Michael Jackson. I’d watch their steps and try to copy it. That’s how I learnt dancing,” he explains.

Madhuri’s future plans  

Madhuri Dixit
Madhuri Dixit

Back in India, actress Madhuri Dixit has a few plans of her own. The lady wants to launch a new television channel in India. She has set the ball rolling with a team and plans in place. Some concepts have been finalised and Madhuri will host a couple of shows too. The name of the channel and other details are secret for now but tentative launch date is June. Madhuri will of course be the face of the channel. 

 

 

Animal instinct

Denying animals their freedom gets sultry sibling stars hot under the collar. They were great to watch as models – and they’re even more fun to see on their new UTV Bindass reality show, Khan Sisters, but you’ve never seen them like this. Shackled and chained in stacked cages while holding a sign that reads, “Lonely, Shackled, Abused – Boycott Zoos”, models-turned-actors Gauhar and Nigaar Khan recently posed for a photo shoot for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India. Their point? Those animals don’t belong in zoos.

Commenting, on their support for the for PETA’s campaign of keeping animals out of Zoos, The Khan Sisters said, “We love our freedom and animals are no different.”

 

Showstoppers

Ramp age: Gurmeet and Debina Chaudhry

Celebrities and models displayed Nisha Sagar’s Bridal Collection at a jam-packed Regal Room of Oberoi Hotel among the world’s leading cardiologists.

Celebrities who walked the ramp for Nisha Sagar were Debina and Gurmeet Choudhry, Smilie Suri, Flora Saini, Gladrags model Rozlyn Khan, Smita Bansal, Neha Marda, Rishiraj (younger Chandragupt Morya) along with some leading models.

Gurmeet Choudhry and his wife Debina looked like royals dressed in sherwani and anarkali, respectively. Talking to us Gurmeet says, “Nishaji is like family to us as she is Shri Ramanand Sagar’s daughter in law and we have worked together during Ramayan.

Debina and I were the showstoppers and glad to be part of the rampwalk.” 

 

 

Dramatic entry

entry point: Karan Wahi

With Karan Wahi entering Kuch Toh Log Kahenge the show saw a dramatic twist. In a candid talk, we ask the chocolate boy of television about the show, his character, TRPs, Kritika Kamra and more…

Why did you choose to do the role of Rohan in Kuch Toh Log Kahenge?

I decided to take the role on for two reasons. First, I had time off till March as my new Star Plus show would go on air hopefully around April. Secondly, I liked the character of Rohan a lot. This is the kind of role I like to play as I am like Rohan in real life. He’s fun-loving, irritates people and cheers them as well.

The role is a cameo. Was visibility an important reason for doing the show?

I have done cameos in the past. A cameo is only for 15-20 days. I don’t know why everybody is calling my appearance a cameo. Rohan is a proper character and will be in the show for at least 3-4 months. It’s a very important character and you will know as the story progresses. As a matter of fact, Rajanji called me for this role because he thought I would be perfect for it. I told him that I have time till March and he said, ‘We will see after that.’

What kind of interaction have you had with Mohnish Behl?

It isn’t my first show with Mohnish. I have worked with him earlier in Dil Mil Gaye. He’s a very chilled-out guy. Unfortunately, I haven’t shot with him in this show so far. We shoot on different sets and don’t have scenes together yet. I can’t call him a friend because he’s senior to me. He is surely someone I look up to.

What do you think of Kritika Karma as an actress?

She’s an excellent actress. I think I don’t need to say that. It’s pretty clear from the show.

How is your rapport with her?

I’ve known Kritika for two years and we are friends. So there no hang-ups like, ‘Oh, my God! I don’t even know her. How’s it going to be?’ In fact, it’s fun working with her since she is a friend. Working with friends makes the job easier.

The show hasn’t garnered expected TRPs reportedly. What is your take on it?

None of my shows have ever got good TRPs. I don’t believe in the system of TRP. You put a box in some thousand houses. But the fact is that India is such a huge country with millions of people. You can’t generalise on the basis of a few thousands. Still, our show just got 1.5 rating which is pretty decent for Sony. I’m sure it will pickup in feature.

Tell us about your other shows.

My new Star Plus show is on the way. We recently shot the pilot scene and have sent it to the channel. We will know everything by January. I will be able to give you details only after that. But hopefully, it shall go on the floors by March.




A still from Uttaran

Will Ichcha expose Tiger?

In Colors’ show Uttaran, with the entry of Tiger pretending to be Vansh Bundela, everyone’s lives in the house has been turned upside down.

But in tonight’s episode, Tiger will find it hard to hide his disguise from her. Will Ichcha catch him?

However, Tiger aka Rohit Khurana refused to spill the beans and says “Well, that’s suspense.

You will have to watch it. However, it was terrifying moment when I lost my lenses.”

—HRM

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: A healthy competitive instinct can be harnessed for greater accomplishment. Stick to what you know and you won’t go wrong. There may be trouble brewing in the family. Tarot message: Versatility and a quicksilver mind will bail you out of a tricky situation. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 64

TAURUS: A crisis at workplace will keep you occupied. Make the best of it by doing what must be done quickly and effectively. A chance encounter with an ex-flame may revive old memories. Tarot message: You find within yourself a fountainhead of will power. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 24

GEMINI: Funds can be increased with a little extra effort. You should give a serious thought to your business. Decisions that need to be made especially involving career should not be put off. There will be a pleasant surprise. Tarot message: Focus on the better to mitigate the bitter. Lucky colour: Silver grey. Magic number: 54

CANCER: A major domestic purchase can be made with confidence but may not be available until next week.Students, you can be successful in tests. Love life suffers due to family problems. A comfortable evening ahead. Tarot message: Take limited risks with you capital. Lucky colour: Sea green. Magic number: 60

LEO: Put knowledge into practice or learn how to do something better. Working women, be careful while dealing with clients. Businessmen will find the day quite hectic. A nagging doubt gets cleared. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid the in-built delays. Lucky colour: Peacock green. Magic number: 29

VIRGO: Your card is Fortune, so this can be a good day on the financial front. Try your luck at speculative possibilities. A request for higher pay will be answered positively by the management. Tarot message: Use careful judgment in handling issues involving property. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 61

LIBRA: Relations with fellow workers are on a high and your popularity will increase. Setting big goals may seem unrealistic. If you shoot for what you really want, it just might happen. Tarot message: Work could pose minor problems but don’t worry. Lucky colour: Rainbow pastels. Magic number: 55

SCORPIO: There will be minor pinpricks that will provoke you today. Newly-married will find home atmosphere tense. Welcome new relationship into your life. Tarot message: Empty promises are certain, therefore try to put your terms and conditions in writing. Lucky colour: Pomegranate red Magic number: 32

SAGITTARIUS: Your card Four of Wands promises an excellent day. Fatigue! Monotony! Take a break. Do not feel guilty about taking out time for yourself. Tact is required to avoid a head-on collision. Tarot message: Delays are the only obstacle in your way to success. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 42

CAPRICORN: Charm, diplomacy, respect and cooperation are far better attributes to employ in dealing with people if you want positive results. Job applications yield good results. Tarot message: Do what is right and watch your best interests. Lucky colour: Pink Magic number: 65

AQUARIUS: A pleasant day is on the cards. Be prepared for multiple invitations to social events and gatherings. Turn your attention to jobs that gives you an opportunity to make the best use of your intellect. Tarot message: Don’t be dismissive of advice from youth. Lucky colour: Royal blue. Magic number: 36

PISCES: Doing a spell of overtime or catching up with work at home would help you pay the bills. Your desires seem to have no end but your bank account will dry up before your wants. Tarot message: Beware of depleting your energy or resources on others. Lucky colour: Cream. Magic number: 33

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is December 15...

You simply can’t move forward till you empty your inbox and go through your voicemail! Your popularity gets a big boost early in 2012 and you can ride the wave for longer than you expect. It’s a good time for you to leverage your public image in a way that helps your whole industry and score some points with colleagues. You’ll get the impression that someone is controlling your work; continue to work as normal and everything will be okay. Don’t tell your partner any lies, as he or she is checking up on you and you could be caught.

You won’t be able to use your social position to evade personal responsibility. Stop looking for others to do your job and roll up your sleeves. Yes, these duties seem incredibly petty now as you are immersed in an important project. Still, nothing absolves you from doing the tasks that are expected of every member of the team. Once you make some progress, you’ll feel much better. You will assimilate concepts well, which will make your advice even more appreciable.

Youngsters will have a few difficulties, which could lead to a loss of self-confidence. Personal illness, fatigue, emotional issues, loss or injury may stunt your ability to perform. But keep patience; things will get sorted out with time.

Take the idealistic and forgiving approach. You project a ‘solid’ and stable image. Your physical shape and the way you look after your body leave a lot to be desired.

Mood: Emotionally cluttered.

Compatible Signs: Scorpio, Gemini.

Lucky colours: Red, Magenta.

Lucky days: Tuesday and Friday.

Lucky numbers: 5, 9, 11, 15, 40.

Lucky gem: Solitaire, zircon, firoza,

Lucky flower: White raat ki rani.

Anwesha Datta Gupta([December 15, 1993, Kolkata) is a singing prodigy who made her presence felt in the Indian music scene through the reality show Amul Star Voice of India, Chhote Ustaad. Anwesha is also known for starring in Gajendra Singh’s Music Ka Maha Muqqabla, where she is in Amul Shaan Striker’s team. Anwesha was runner-up in the final, where the outcome was solely decided by votes.





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