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High Flick If cricket dons a glam version can hockey remain far behind? Especially, that now we have a ChakDe team to fall back upon! So, on the inaugural day of the IVth edition of the Premier Hockey League, four actors from the blockbuster turned up to cheer the teams — Tanya Abrol, Seema Azmi, Arya Menon and Sandia Futardo. They came and as they stepped on the green turf of Hockey Stadium-42, reliving the characters of the film came naturally to them — Tanya as Balbir Kaur, Seema as Gul Iqbal, Arya as Rani Dispota and Sandia as Nethra Reddy. They clasped on to their hockey sticks and posed with the captains of all seven teams and shared their reel and real experiences. "We even slept with the hockey sticks besides us," says Sandia, a student of sociology and anthropology from St Xavier-Mumbai, who played the role of a groundman’s little daughter who dreamt of being a hockey player throughout her childhood. But talking to her we come to know that the film was only an extension of her real life. For, Sandia was already a national level hockey player when she bagged the role. "I have played football too. But now hockey occupies the central position in my life," she confesses. Our homegrown Tanya, who played the character of a fearless and sometimes brainless girl with a heart of gold, is now planning to make a move to Mumbai once she finishes her studies from MCMDAV-36. Seema Azmi, more popular as Rani Dispotta, the expert not just in the field but also off it when it comes to handling the city-bred, or manhandling them if required, is rearing to go in her film career. The girl who made her presence felt in Deepa MehtaWater says she has a few offers in her kitty, without actually naming them. And one question that lights up the girls’ faces is how was it working with Shah Rukh Khan. "Groovy. We have never met a humbler man than him," they chorus. And the best time they spent together was when SRK took them out in Australia for a movie treat. The film was Don and watching it with SRK among them was a dream come true. But how does it feel to be part of real hockey? "Working for Chak De definitely ignited the passion for hockey. In fact, the film has done wonders in bringing back the lost glory of the game among the masses. That is why we are here, to cheer for the teams and to motivate our youngsters to give their best to this game," they reply. Well, Chak De may be a thing of the past but their sporting spirit is very much alive. parbina@tribunemail.com
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Homecoming Thursday dopahar proved lucky for a few telly viewers, for, they found Gurpreet Singh aka Rudra of Saarthi knocking at the door. Part of a promotional event, viewers got to meet the fun-loving guy behind Rudra. "Rudra is a positive character whose mission is to take his mother’s revenge," says Gurpreet, making it clear that he’ll talk only about Rudra and not Sujal, his debut character in Kahiin To Hoga. Back to Rudra. "The character will spring up surprises in the coming months," he says. A prankster on the sets of Saarthi, on his wish list is a comic role. And, what about reality shows? "Why not? As long as it is challenging and gives me work satisfaction," he says. A couple of flicks are also in the pipeline. A commerce graduate from Delhi University, Gurpreet, though born and brought up in Delhi, is a true blue Punjabi. He has relatives in Chandigarh, Ludhiana and Poanta Sahib, but loves apna Chandigarh the most. "Clean roads, chilly winters and soni kudis, what more does one want?" he says. "The song Chandigarh kare aashiqui is apt," he smiles. Besides this, he swings to Gurdas Mann. Talk Punjabi food and the chef in Gurpreet comes alive, "I make lovely lemon and butter chicken," he smiles. Besides, he loves to bite into matar paneer, saag and paranthas. And when will he be back in the city to gorge on more? "Very soon," he promises. purva@tribunemail.com
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New releases Taare Zameen Par Director: Aamir Khan Starring: Aamir Khan, Darsheel Safary, Tanay Cheda, Tisca Chopra, Vipin Sharma TAARE ... is a film about the travails an eight-year-old boy undergoes in his family. Ishaan Awasthi (Darsheel) is a happy and carefree boy who loves all good things that have been created by god. He likes to paint, loves dogs, kites, etc, and has no time at all for the homework and examination routine boys of his age have to face!Ishaan detests being in the classroom and the studies reflect his dislike. Beyond a certain point of time, his parents decide that they have had enough of him and send him off to a boarding school to 'be disciplined'.`A0 Boarding school turns out to be a nightmare for Ishaan, where he is burdened with the additional trauma of staying away from his family. Thankfully for him, a new art teacher, Ram Shankar Nikumbh (Aamir), joins the school. Nikumbh has a mission to keep all the children happy and at peace with themselves. Adopting an altogether different approach, Nikumbh allows students to be on their own and breaks the shackles of being a ‘strict’ teacher. He tells the children to open up and do things according to their wishes, likes and imagination. Taken by complete surprise, all the children respond with great enthusiasm. Ishaan, however, keeps to himself. Sensing his aloofness, Nikumbh turns his attention towards Ishaan. Over a period of time, with tact, patience and affection, the teacher in Nikumbh wins over the student in Ishaan. Ishaan carries the entire film on his frail but firm shoulders. As a troubled child, he goes through a whole gamut of emotions, switching from one to the other with relative ease.`A0Vipin Sharma and Tisca Chopra, Ishaan’s parents, portray how typically strict parents tend to react in the given scenario. Showing at: Fun Republic, Piccadily, Suraj Welcome Director: Anees Bazmee
WELCOME to the deadliest and funniest Shaadi of the year. Dr Ghungroo (Paresh) is searching for a suitable bride for his nephew Rajiv (Akshay). He wants a girl from a family that should have impeccable background and spotless reputation. For obvious reasons, every bridal interview ends with him storming off in rage and disgust. Rajiv seems destined to remain a bachelor. Uday Shetty (Nana) is a highly feared underworld don who is searching for a suitable boy for his only sister Sanjana (Katrina). Uday wants a boy from a respectable family with a spotless reputation. For obvious reasons, all the boys he interviews run away in fright when they realise who they are dealing with. Sanjana seems destined to remain a spinster. But then, along comes raging fire that plays cupid and entices Rajiv and Sanjana to fall in love. Along comes a conniving pandit who plays a matchmaker after hiding a few truths. Dr Ghungroo is ecstatic. Beautiful Sanjana is what he wanted for Rajiv. Uday Shetty too is excited. Handsome Rajiv is what he wanted for Sanjana. Then Dr Ghungroo learns the bitter truth that Sanjana comes from a dangerous family of gangsters. And Uday Shetty also realises the harsh truth that no threats will coerce Rajiv’s uncle into accepting this marriage. Showing at: Batra, KC (Pkl)
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Youth
Speak Added to the long list of things, Punjab is notorious for is the fact that we have female foeticide-elimination of unnecessary girls even before her origin. I realise my state, which was an epitome of prosperity, joy and laughter is sinking into a state of physical and mental despair thanks to the dubious distinction of having worst sex ratio. Juxtapose this with the discovery of two graves of female fetuses at Patran near Patiala and we have more or less a complete picture of how this dreadful crime has spread its tentacles far and wide. I fully endorse Kanwalpreet’s view that the murder in the womb is caused by social rituals & to evade the nuisance of dowry, people perform this wicked crime. Pre-natal sex determination test followed by quick abortions destroy thousands of foetuses much before they could become daughters. Throughout the world, nature balances the female-male ratio by its own biological mechanism but in our society, nature is overruled by nurture. Our 10 Gurus advocated impartiality among the male and female but now the people dread the birth of a daughter and idolize love or admire sons. The state government should take some abrupt measures to annul this heinous crime before the situation become grimmer. Feel strongly about something? If you are under 25, this is the forum for you. Mail us your views in not more than 300 words along with a passport photograph at lifestyletribune@gmail.com
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Little Interview
And now she is
blazing the silver screen with Aamir Khan production’s Taare Zameen
Par in which she play mother to the wonderkid Darsheel Safary.
Dedicated to childhood, Taare Zameen Par is set to release on
December 21. Tisca Chopra talks to Life Style about her film and
career. You worked with the great star Aamir Khan. How was it on
the sets? Fantastic! Aamir Khan is a talented actor. He has a
different approach to his craft. He is very good to work with. How
did Taare... come to you? When Aamir and creative director
Amole Gupta contacted me I was a bit surprised. They called me for
audition and I put all I had into it. The same day I was selected for
the movie. You think very highly of Aamir, the debutant
director? Aamir is respectful to each and every unit member who
works with him. He has never lost his temper with me. I believe that it
is Aamir’s passion that got everyone so focused. Tell us
something about Taare...? It is a story of a dyslexic kid
and his teacher. The film highlights problems of children like the one
in the movie. Are you satisfied with the way the film has shaped
up? We have put in a lot of hardwork and the film ought to do well.
The viewers will be a satisfied lot. Are you doing any more
television shows? At present I am not doing any TV show. What are your hobbies and passion? I am passionate about life. I am
lucky, in that my passion is my job. I love acting in all forms. I like
to write. I am also a voracious reader. What are your other
projects? I plan to get into production of television and later
films. I am also working on a script. Currently I am looking at a few
scripts that have come to me. — Dharam Pal
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SIDELANES I often wonder how these people find the love and commitment to help others. Are they a breed apart? Are they not repulsed by runny noses, bad tums and open sores, as we are? Are they not afraid of catching infections or being harmed by hoodlums who resent having so little? I have come to the conclusion that these are living angels on earth sent on some glorious mission. They are people driven by consciences and right thinking. Even if their work is not acknowledged or recognised, they carry on making a difference to people’s lives. I want to do something, too, but a warm bed, a hot cup of tea, a chair in the sun and friends over the phone, create an anesthetic circle of oblivion and comfort that is hard to get out of. I have discovered an easy option. For years, in Goa, I watched Geraldine Patel deal with drunken fathers, raped girls and drug-eyed children. She goes to church daily, prays for the occasional windfall and continues to work. I’ve asked Geraldine to be my working conscience. If, and when, I have some spare cash, I’ll send it to her. Her last report says that the Hamara School kids were treated to sabudana and potato balls for Rs150; the Chimbel slum kids had three chickens and rice for lunch (cost Rs 275) and wanted to take portions home for mummy. Mother Teresa’s home in Karamboli had mince koftas with rice. Majid, the taxi owner, did not charge extra for the trip as it was a mission of mercy. Father Francis hosted an inter-school football match for the underprivileged and used the small amount I sent for refreshments and a Christmas celebration amongst village children. The common factor was minimal expenditure, maximum effort, enjoyment and normal community living for a few hours for children who have very little to smile about in their daily lives. I hope that the Great Power Above will answer my prayers and occasionally send me spare cash to help bring a smile to a face and quieten the growls of an empty stomach. Very little money is involved but what I can spend on an extra suit, will feed a class of 15 under nourished children. Innumerable voluntary groups are waking up to the needs of the community. Perhaps you could buy a cloth wine bag from DIR to give your Christmas or Diwali gift. The money spent will go to a family who do the stitching after labouring in the fields. A circle of giving and sharing is being created in our midst. Let’s join it during the Christmas season.
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Brewing pleasure Exuding brightness, walls of the shop are adorned with pics of people enjoying their coffee and interesting shots of coffee. Hot and frozen coffee, special drinks, smoothies, snacks and cake slices, you can relish it all here. Already ruling the roost are flavoured coffees like hazelnut, caramel, toffee nut and Irish crème.
The coffees are priced at Rs 37 onwards, plus an extra Rs 20 for the flavour. The regulars include Mocha, Cocaccino, Affogato and Breve. “People are loving the coffee more, because it’s milder than what is served elsewhere,” say Rekha and Deepak Gohal, the sis-bro who are together running the eatery. And as you sip into hot coffee, you can bite into pizza slices, sandwiches, rolls, chicken salami and smoke chicken filled bran. For your sweet tooth, there is mud cake, brownies, wicked cherry and more. Also, there is more than coffee here, labelled as ’non-coffee’ drinks. This includes tea in interesting flavours — green, earl gray, raspberry, apricot and more. Or one can sip smoothies and slush in pineapple, black current, banana, watermelon and lemon flavours. A fortnight from now, first floor of the coffee shop will be opened as a lounge. Also in the pipeline is another outlet at Panchkula.
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Way above us “It took us over three years to convince him to come to Chandigarh,” says Suresh Kapila, one of the organisers of Winter Shopping Festival and Kids Carnival- 34. Sindhia will be a major attraction during the 11-day festival commencing on Friday. Says 44-year-old Sindhia, “Earlier I would find it very weird when people would stare, but soon I understood.” Well, that’s the reason why he said ‘no’ to a couple of movies too. He’s done it all — farming, wrestling, playing football, ad shoots and gathering votes at rallies! Surprisingly, his family of ten members are all five feet something. And what about his wife, we get curious. “She is 6 feet 5 inches tall and my son and daughter, though too young right now, will grow up tall,” he says. Talk of his diet and he says it’s equal to that of ten people. And he likes papaya, carrot juice and milk the most. His clothes and shoes are courtesy a tailor and mochi back home. But, as for his stay here, our men are at work. A cobbler in Sector 34 is making the large pair of shoes for him, size 15 and 17! And on Christmas he’ll don a Santa outfit, crafted by a tailor in Ambala. The organisers are busy getting a 12 feet high stall ready for him, where he can sleep, eat and stand! And, as for us, little beings, who visit the exhibition, the tall wonder will pose for a picture with us. But, not for free, for the organisers will be charging per pic. Well, now one wouldn’t really mind paying up for this large frame. |
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Painter to the core Take for example the Maize Field-Manali. He may have painted it way back in 1980 but 90-year-old Rattan can still recall each and everything — how his paints and brush attracted two young girls Kamla and Lata and how they offered not just the apples they were munching but also their home to Rattan for a night’s stay. “I am all for nature,” he smiles. And his love shows in each of his creations — Cascading Water, Mountainous Pass, Beas Flows in Manali, Vaishno Devi Peak and Majestic Oaks — all vibrant with colour and life. Knowing that Rattan, who hails from Sialkot, was initiated into the world of art by eminent teachers like Master Feroz Din, Master Jagan Nath and B.C. Sanyal at Mayo School of Arts, Lahore, we understand he still has a soft corner for that place. However, majority of his works belong to the post-Independence time when he joined Government College of Art at Shimla and later shifted to Chandigarh when the college shifted its base. He retired in 1971.
“I painted Shimla in all its moods,” he tells us. And we see it all over the walls — Auburn Autumn, Golden Autumn and famous Men’s Hill in different season. “Men’s Hill used to be quite a famous spot in Shimla and I loved capturing in all its colour, sometime barren and sometime covered with thick foliage,” he points at Red Phenomenon where the hill is shown in different shades of brown. Rattan’s mastery over the medium (water-colour) is undisputable. So is the way he blends colours keeping the purity intact. His simplicity of design and eye for details are baffling. What is the most difficult thing to paint, we ask him. “Dirty water. It is easier to paint pure water but not dirty water,” he laughs. But he did it anyway. Painted the dirty muddy water on the other side of Sukhna over and over again. But then that is Rattan, the artist, who chooses the most complex form and presents it in a timeless expression. The exhibition will be inaugurated by Administrator S. F. Rodrigues at 6 p.m. on Friday. On till December 29
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Rising Star The talented musician now plans to groom singers in foreign lands Seldom it happens that a man is blessed with the astute wisdom of a composer, singer, musician and an academician at the same time. However, these traits coalesce in ample measure in the persona of young engineer Raman Kant, a Chandigarh-based maestro. A sought after music composer, Raman had scored music for many Punjabi, Hindi and Haryanvi albums such as Dost Mera Dil, Doli, Karle Tu Pyar, while five albums and two Pakistani Punjabi films are in the offing. His association with Zee TV’s panel for selection of aspiring singers for Sa Re Ga Ma Pa competition made him very popular among youngsters. Raman was applauded by famous Bollywood music personalities such as O.P. Nayyar, Pyare Lal, Anand ji, Usha Khanna, Ravi, Suman Kalyanpur and actor Rekha for brilliantly conducting music at concerts, especially the Rafi Memorial Nites. Having learnt nuances of classical music from ustads of Punjab and Agra gharana, Raman feels that the Indian classical and devotional music is sublime in character and nourishes the soul, while the folk or popular music touches the intellect with a special romantic appeal. Proud winner of Indian classical vocal competition of the prestigious national festival Harvallabh Sangeet Sammelan twice in succession, Raman says the special moment was not winning the competition but receiving the winning trophy from legendary vocalist Pandit Jasraj. “The very flash of the ceremony rejuvenates me,” he says, as it was by no means a small achievement for a youngster. “But I take every opportunity as a serious challenge,” he adds. Raman started learning music at the age of seven and established his supremacy by winning many district and state level prizes. Later, he led the college and university teams to victory at many cultural fests, while pursuing a degree from the Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology. “All the aesthetic creations in music are always a result of special form of intuition, which represent the man’s whole personality,” says Raman, just back from Toronto for a prestigious cultural show. Known as an encyclopedia of film music — remembering over 1000 songs by rote — Raman is now playing an International innings at Toronto. He has plans to groom singers of foreign lands and hone their music skills, besides providing them recording and production technology know-how. lifestyletribune@gmail.com |
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Song of Silence In her words, “Life is still a struggle, emotionally sometimes and financially at most times and in many other ways, but no problem detracts from the amount I have received and receive everyday.” And her statement echoes in each verses of her latest book A Heart That Honours, which was released last week in Delhi. With her new-found freedom, her sense of security that comes from knowing oneself and be at peace with life, she honours each and every aspect of life — her freedom, her dreams, her passion, her mother and children, friends, the miracles that touched her life and even death. This is a book, which is born out of gratitude and of course the author’s positive attitude towards life. “I believe in joy, in honouring, treasuring and cherishing every moment and in truly living out every facet of life. I do all that my heart tells me to,” she writes. And in doing so, she does not go beyond rules, but only she believes in living within the rules that her conscience sets for her. For, she is a strong, focused woman, who does not believe in wallowing in self-pity. “I do not see myself as a victim. I am a woman who has come through, and the first step to coming through is having faith in myself.” Neither does she believe that pain is unique to her. “All of us suffer in different ways... This is all the more reason for each of us to find joy wherever and as often as we can,” she says. Reaching out she does, in rhythmic verses as she pours strongest of her emotions. And when she writes about honouring herself, “I acknowledge, I accept, I appreciate myself...” her simple words become a source of inspiration for others. But why only in verses we ask her we come to know that Rashmi’s third book, based on her journey in life, which will be released sometime in March next, is once again written in the same format. I have just once answer to this she says, “I have been silent for too long. But now I have many songs to sing.” In fact, Rashmi plans to convert her first book into verse. Rashmi who survived by freelancing as a copywriter for ad agencies, has now turned into a full time writer. “It is a time consuming job.” But writing is not a conscious effort for her. “I just pick up the pen and verses just come to me.” And going through her verses one can see the effortless flow in her creations. But more than the technicalities of writing, it is the sentiment that stands out. To go by Indira Jaisingh’s foreword, ‘this book is for every woman who knows the difference between justice and revenge and who re-invents herself and becomes a role model for others’. It may sound a little too bookish, but listen to what Rashmi has to say to women facing similar situations — “Look within yourself for inspiration but do reach out. Because when you do there are hundreds of hands to help you out.” And the conviction in her voice and her sunny demeanour tells us these are not just empty words.
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Author Janaky Sharma holds Lord Krishna as the Supreme Being
“I have always felt his presence and my blind faith in him has helped me sail through many crisis in life,” says Janaky, a former journalist-turned-author. Her maiden book Panchali: The Fire Princess was released only last month. Why mythology and isn’t it too bold a subject to attempt considering that we have a whole lot of books available on him, we ask. “Right, I was discouraged by many people in the beginning who thought my book will never see light of the day. But I had my faith and also this unrelenting urge to write about him. And as for her attempts on mythology, she finds it difficult to analyse the logic behind — “Maybe because Indian mythology is part of my being and spiritualism is the food for my soul.” To summarise her efforts, one can say she has done justice to her subject. For, her book shows years of thorough research, interaction with art historians and philosophers, and more importantly dedication to her cause. And she has kept her language simple to make it readable to all.
— P. R. |
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Calling all children, it’s your chance to get Ram Shankar Nikumbh aka Aamir Khan, the teacher of Taare Zameen Par to answer all your questions. A dream talkathon — Meet & Greet, organised by BIG 92.7 FM on December 25 invites the city kids to celebrate Christmas with Aamir. All you need to do is SMS your question to the star. As a part of the talkathon, Aamir will also lend valuable advice to parents to help them realise their child’s true potential. Aamir’s directorial venture is a flick about children with multiple intelligence and showcases how every child is special and is gifted with a special talent, be it in science or drawing. To participate SMS AK <type your question> and send it to 55454. And, what’s more the best questions on-air will get a chance to speak to the superstar. — TNS
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It’s snowing fun!
If you love snuggling in the quilt and sipping into piping soup, then, this is not for you. The ice games at Funcity are for the adventurous whose adrenalin pumps up with falling temperature. Beginning this Thursday, one can enjoy the snow right here, without travelling uphill. Funcity has been organising this winter event for the past five years now. And, this year the launch was special for it saw 50 children from Sadhana Society for Mentally Handicapped. The games will be on till January 6. Nothing short of a paradise for the kids, there is a snow cave where you can enjoy snow fight, a Santa sledge to get you into the Christmas mood and more. Forget rain dance, here you can swing under white flaky snow. Or step into a room that will take you to the Arctic Zone. Called the Snow Blizzard, you’ll actually feel the snow falling over you here. There are also icy slopes created for all ages, with one slide like a pendulum. So, what are you waiting for, go ahead and have a snow-filled time.
— TNS
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For girls’ sake
Actress Jennifer Love Hewitt has turned down an offer to bare all in Playboy magazine. Hewitt made headlines recently when she responded on her blog to unflattering vacation pictures of her in a bikini, which prompted some tabloids to poke fun at her figure.
— ANI
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Health TIP of the day
Feet are subjected to nearly one million pounds of pressure during an hour of strenuous exercise. To help feet work as efficient shock absorbers proper footwear is of extreme importance as they help cushion these loads. — Dr Ravinder Chadha
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TAROT TALK ARIES: Star, the card responsible for all the brilliant ideas you come up with, is still on your side so any decision taken will be right. Personal life will move faster. Stable marital life is on cards. Lucky colour: Cherry. TIP OF THE WEEK: Arrogance will not be rewarded. TAURUS: Moon takes you through a difficult karmic situation. Work will progress satisfactorily. You may be in an irritable mood on Saturday. On Wednesday give extra time to your loved ones. With everything out of the way, you can relax a bit on Thursday. Lucky colour: Pink. TIP: Your determination to succeed will pay dividends. GEMINI: Magician reveals your imagination can run wild now. Career women face a sudden stop shift. Discussing things rationally with your partner will help ease your concerns. You get the rewards of the efforts you had been putting in the past. Lucky colour: Magenta. TIP: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far. CANCER: Three Wands representing Brahma, Vishnu Mahesh bring success. This is also an excellent time to start a self-development project. There could be disagreements at home but you need to keep your opinions to yourself. Lucky colour: Crimson TIP: Avoid gossip sessions. LEO: Five of wands advises you not to have any truck with a Gemini. If you feel imposed upon and a little upset, just give the situation the benefit. At work, hold steady, make no major changes in your routine. Clear misunderstandings on Tuesday or Thursday. Lucky colour: Baby pink. TIP: Be articulate to prevent people for making their own conclusion. VIRGO: Ten of pentacles bode well for relationship & romance. You have to attend more duties at work place. Your inner light and wisdom shine but you repress your vitality while trying to meet demands of others. Travel is likely on Thursday. Lucky Colour: Scarlet. TIP: There are challenges but the returns that follow will far exceed you estimate. LIBRA: Strength gives you a taste of freedom and releases you from emotional restrictions. You have strong ideas, but that doesn't mean you're not open to learning new things. A celebration in the family keeps spirits flying high. Believe in yourself, even if others disagree. Lucky Colour: Turquoise. TIP: Avoid confrontation and making personal remarks. SCORPIO: Knight of Pentacles augurs a very depleting and confusing week. You have an abundance of self-confidence right now and can take on new challenges with ease. Some delay in financial settlements is possible. Lucky colour: Ebony. TIP: Do as many courses as you can to get ahead of others. SAGITTARIUS: Three of Cups brings healing and attention to earthy matters. An interesting romantic encounter will take place on Tuesday. Re-arrangements of lifestyle, work and financial matters will take up time and effort. Good development in health matters brings you clarity of thoughts. Lucky colour: Lime TIP: You have to tread familiar ground if you are to make a breakthrough in career. CAPRICORN: Princes of Cups infuses youthful disposition so you will be flirtatious, but be careful not to ignore or hurt the one who counts most in your life. Progressive changes are on cards. Short journey likely for some on Wednesday. Lucky Colour: Yellow. TIP: Dare to accomplish those tasks that normally take up a lot of time. AQUARIUS: Princess of Swords brings you face to face with truth in personal and professional situations. You get past health problems and get ready for a happy journey. Meditate and participate in inter-dependent relationships. Lucky colour: Red. TIP: Be grateful for the gains coming your way. PISCES: Priestess infuses a gracious influence in your life. Entertainment will be on your mind on Saturday. Group activities will provide a setting to display your wealth of capabilities in one to one interactions. Lucky Colour: Pink. TIP: Don’t be enthusiastic in finalising a particular deal.
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Starring:
Akshay Kumar, Katrina Kaif, Anil Kapoor, Paresh Rawal, Nana Patekar, Feroz
Khan, Mallika Sherawat
Of late, Bollywood has witnessed an inflow of quite a few talented
artistes into its fold. One such young actress is Tisca Chopra, who has
displayed her talent in Kahaani Ghar Ghar Ki, Astitva, Sarkar
and producer Mona Merchant’s show Main Hoon Na on Star News.
Television helped Tisca to reinvent and Kahaani Ghar Ghar Ki
brought this young actress directly into limelight. 
I JUST received a letter of thanks and greetings from Father Francis who heads Don Bosco, Sutgatti, at Hubli. Don Bosco institutions all over the world do a magnificent job, not only with teaching and vocational guidance, but also empowerment of the underprivileged. They try to make people stand on their own feet instead of living off handouts. Nuns, too, run similar institutions for women. In Chandigarh, Developing Indigenous Resources (DIR) and Hamari Kaksha are striving to improve the quality of life for children and women. DIR is run by an Irishman, Fredrick Shaw, with the help of Indian colleagues. Kaksha is headed by Minnie. All the individuals involved are professionals with jobs. Community work is done in their spare time.
Love for caffeine is growing in the city, and taking our addiction further is a coffee shop that opened last Friday. Java Daves in Sector 10 claims to be the first to bring to the city (and even the country) coffee from Java Daves, USA’s popular brand. Their rich flavours and recipes are courtesy the brand too. 
The moment he stepped down from the train on Wednesday night, the city station saw surprising-shocking looks, shoving-pushing and more. For, one and all were excited to catch a glimpse of the Ram Lal Sindhia. The man from Ballia, UP, stands at a whopping eight feet! 
It comes as a double bonanza for art lovers as Baldev Raj Rattan gives us a guided tour of his solo exhibition ‘Retrospective (1942 – 2007) of Paintings’ at the Government Museum and Art Gallery-10. For, through his paintings we not only get to see what places we are familiar with used to look once upon a time, but also get to learn the story behind each frame. 
Rare among them are a few creations in Lahore, Quiet Flows the Ravi, which was done in 1942. The painting exudes serenity, as the name suggests. “I went to the same place for three consecutive days just to get the mood of the landscape right,” says Rattan. Then there are two wash paintings (Shepherd Boy and Bridal Finery) that had earned praises by the master of wash painting Khan Abdul Rehman Chuktai. “These are closest to my heart and I am not going to part with them for any amount,” informs the artist.
Her first book Woman of the Elements was born out of pain. After all, re-starting one’s life at 35, with memories of a violent marriage and two children to support — one child with a special need — is a struggle not too many of us are not capable of enduring. But Rashmi Anand did all she could do as a woman of substance, without sounding bitter or cynical. In fact, in that book she celebrated womanpower, she celebrated herself!
Srimad Bhagawata, the greatest of Vyasa’s compositions, hails Lord Vishnu as the Supreme Being. But Janaky Sharma refuses to believe that. So what does she do? Delve into an extensive research and come up with enough facts to prove that her favourite deity Lord Krishna is supreme among all the 10 avtaars of Lord Vishnu. Her research work has resulted in a book called Yugavataar. And her love for Krishna did not blossom only because of his winsome smile, which helped him win many a battle but also the fact that he is a god who comes to his devotee’s rescue immediately.