Cricket scores over Bollywood
With no movie being released for the third consecutive week, the World Cup has given sleepless nights to producers as well as multiplex owners

Ashima Sehajpal

Somebody's loss is somebody's gain; for the third consecutive week, no Bollywood movie will open its account at the box-office. Cricket lovers aren't bothered at all, but Bollywood loyalists are miffed about the shut movie window. So, should the dates of movie releases clash with the World Cup? Here's taking opinions from movie buffs, actors and those who are bothered about the economies of film-making. 

Movie buffs buggedFor the ardent fans of Bollywood, it's like being deprived of the privilege of paisa vasool entertainment. Not that I am not fond of cricket or don't want to be a part of the World Cup, but films are as important. India has a match once in a week, but what about other days? There are not many options in Chandigarh for recreation.Charu Attri, student, SD College Watching a new release in a multiplex is the best way to hang out in summer, but we can't even do that since no movie is releasing. Even if India is a cricket crazy nation, there're some people who don't follow the game much. So, it's a loss for people like me, for whom it's a habit to watch a new movie every weekend. 

Rayshita Sachdeva, NIIFT student Industry insiders' takeIt all depends on how the situation is dealt with. For that matter, consider the box-office collections of Tanu Weds Manu. Even though critics did not appreciate the movie, it managed to do well because no other movie was released. India is not playing a match every day, so a well-planned release around the World Cup would have made things better for producers as well as movie lovers.Randeep Hooda, actorIt's a huge risk for producers to release a movie during the World cup. Unlike the T-20 World Cup, the 50 over matches doesn't leave people with much choice. Producers lose many shows to cricket. However, with a movie like Tanu Weds Manu doing well at the box-office, you can never be sure of such trends. Sonu Sood, actorWorld cup happens once in four years. 

I think if for a month we only enjoy cricket and no movies, it's not a big deal. No matter how much you promote a film, it won't attract many during the World Cup. Don't question the dedication of cricket lovers in India! Sudeepa Singh, actor Talking money While Bollywood producers are not risking any movie, I tried to set an example by releasing my Punjabi directorial venture - The Lion Of Punjab. However, after three weeks of its release, I am only regretting this bold step. My film lost around 35 per cent business. Had I delayed the release date by a month and waited for the World Cup to get over, the situation would have been different. 

Exams in colleges and schools were another dampener. Guddu Dhanoa, Director, The Lion of Punjab The loss that multiplexes are bearing has also increased with yet another week without any new release. The drop in business was 20 per cent after two weeks of the release of Tanu Weds Manu. This week it will touch 40 per cent. It's on weekends that multiplexes earn the maximum revenue but with India matches scheduled for weekends, it's further harming the business. Not releasing films around the World Cup is saving producers' money for sure.Raj Juneja, representative of Mukta Arts and a film distributor in Chandigarhashima@tribunemail.com

Holi clothes get stylish makeover

Wearing old white clothes on Holi is passe. With people becoming increasingly fashion conscious, hot pants, backless blouses and off-shoulder tops in vibrant colours have taken a front seat. "Yes, there has been a drastic change in people's perception towards Holi, especially the younger generation. 

They want to have fun but not at the cost of losing the glamour quotient," says Delhi-based designer Ridhima Chauhan."Bollywood plays a major role in inspiring these youngsters to go the trendy way and what could be a better option than showing sexy curves in figure-hugging dresses," she added.Holi songs in movies like Mohabbatein, Waqt — Race Against Time and Action Replayy started this trend wherein Kim Sharma-Shamita Shetty, Priyanka Chopra and Neha Dhupia respectively brought a revolution in the Holi dress code.Style divas are spotted in body-hugging short dresses to skin hugging tights and transparent fabrics at Holi parties and adding glamour to the celebration of colours."Light coloured tunics matched with multi-coloured pajamis or ankle length trousers, with chiffon dupattas, are some trends that are in vogue. 

Not only young girls but also married women are trying to get away from the traditional look; so the demand for saris with halter necks and backless blouses has increased," says Delhi-based designer Meera Gupta.Mumbai-based designer Digvijay Singh, said: "It is one festival that youngsters look forward to and they leave no stones unturned to flaunt their best side." He also feels that people don't mind showing skin on Holi." 

Skin show is something not too many mind on this occasion. No matter what you wear, eventually you will get drenched," he said.For Deeksha Aggarwal, pursuing her B. Com (H) from Delhi University, it's all about how you mix both cultures together."With changing times, revealing garments are no longer the point of discussion. And this is the reason why I am going to wear a Rajasthani lehenga coupled with a stylish and sexy choli. — IANS

Bollywood singer Jaspinder Narula shares her journey in the world of music

Jaspinder Narula MonaMy humble effort is to leave the best of each genre — ghazal, qaawali, rock, Sufi — for the next generation," says gifted singer Jaspinder Narula, a name to reckon with in the music industry. With singing talent in her blood, Jaspinder has made most of the opportunities available to her. She started singing at the age of eight with music stalwarts like Jagjit Singh and Chitra Singh, completed PhD in Hindustani classical music and is enjoying a successful innings in Bollywood now.

In the city to announce BIG Punjabi Entertainment Awards, Jaspinder gets nostalgic as she shares, "I would often have musical nights in Tagore theatre. I was known as Baby Narula then."Jaspinder started with bhajans and Sufiana. Her major break in Bollywood was title track of Pyar to hona ho tha. "My parents initiated me into music, but never forced me enter the film industry. After PhD I moved to Canada. It was as if on a divine call that I moved to Mumbai. 

When I got to do Pyar to with Remo, a famous name then, I was motivated no end," she shares.Jaspinder has to her credit many hits since then; Bunty Aur Babli, Mission Kashmir, Mohabatein, Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani, to name a few.Not amused with Munni and Sheela, Jaspinder is sometimes dejected at any music projected as Sufi today. "Today's generation is consuming anything in the name of Sufi. Let's not forget Sufi is the voice of great men who dressed up in 'Suf' colour — colour of the sky. 

It's only Nanak, Kabir, Ravidas and the likes who qualify to be Sufi, not any random singers," she says.Having tried her hand at different music genres, something very different is on Jaspinder's mind now, "You will soon see me as part of a rock band."Hail awardsGuddu Dhanoa, noted Bollywood film director and producer who recently released The Lion of Punjab, his first take in Punjabi cinema, also applauded Reliance's BIG awards. 

"Awards inspire artistes to strive for the best. BIG awards that cover genres like theatre, sports and television along with movies and music would go a long way in promoting talent in each of these fields. And, get them recognition. Happy with the response to The Lion of Punjab, Guddu is all set for his next two projects - Rocking Jat, his next Punjabi flick and Handsome Four — his next Bollywood venture that would most probably star the Deols. 

"Dharmendra ji is not only my first cousin, but also my inspiration behind the decision to join the film industry. During younger days, we would try all his action sequences once we were out of the theatre after watching his movie," shares Guddu.All for sport "Sports have a special advantage; the Tricolour rises each time the team wins," says hockey player Baljit Singh. "Each sport demands as much effort and determination as cricket. I sincerely hope the awards will get the players a fair share of their due, even as masses acknowledge their prowess," he adds.mona@tribunemail.com

Trouble shooter 
Simmi Waraich

Running away does not helpI am 18. Recently my parents checked my phone and saw a picture of me kissing my boyfriend. Now, they have taken away my phone. I am upset, as I cannot live under constant supervision. I talked to my elder brother and he told me to stay calm and let this blow over. 

I want to study and work hard but I also tried slashing my wrists and taking sleeping pills. R, Chandigarh. Ask yourself the following—If a friend came to you and told you this had happened to her, what would you have told her? How long have you known this boy and is there any particular reason why your parents object to him? Was the relationship affecting your studies? Do you tend to get into intense relationships? It's okay to have a boyfriend, but it's wise to set limits in a relationship. If the relationship is not affecting your studies and the boy is someone responsible, your parents will probably cool down sooner or later. 

Just keep talking to them and tell them you understand their point of view. If you are wrong, admit it. Get an evaluation to rule out depression or any untoward incidents. Be prepared to deal with your actions. Running away by trying to slit your wrists or taking an overdose will not help but make it worse. Exorcise the demonI am 25 years old. I faced a lot of mental abuse as a child due to my turban when we were outside Punjab. I have developed this habit of checking the door lock again and again. I also think of abusive words. That really upsets me but I cannot control it. I also have severe headaches. I feel that my mental attitude is taking a toll on my physical health. M, Chandigarh Maybe you need help in dealing with the childhood mental abuse that you faced by talking to some qualified person. Also, you need to be evaluated for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. That can cause the repetitive anxiety causing thoughts that you get. 

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy can be of some help in dealing with this long-term problem. Somatic complaints like headache can occur due to stress. Try not to get upset by your thoughts, remember they are only thoughts and not facts. (Dr Waraich is a Chandigarh-based consultant psychiatrist.Shoot your problems to lifestyletribune@gmail.com or write to Troubleshooter, Life+Style, The Tribune, Sector 29, Chandigarh)

ROAD RAGE 
DEEPAK VERMA

Speed gives a definite thrill and speaks a lot about style but then we cannot ignore the word 'safety'. Imagine the repercussions if safety quotient is given a pass. Car manufacturers swear by the word, which is why the latest models now come loaded with safety features.From touch-screen navigation systems, anti-lock brake systems, hydraulic back doors, and special road traction sensors, safety measures making driving an experience for you knowing you are safe.Car alarms: There is nothing like a car alarm that triggers off the minute one looks at the car. 

Not literally! Most high-end cars these days have alarms with anti scan features, which makes the thieves impossible to even look inside your car. For instance a sedan is packed with a user-friendly security system that is fairly simple to use. Car alarms work in a simple style- the controls having bright LCD display shows owner's status reports all the time. Despite such defined technology, prevention is still a better idea. 

Computer monitoring systems: Technology indeed has made our lives better and safe. With computer monitoring system, a safety gadget that checks the car's tyre pressure and oil level, reducing the chances of a mishap.Cars in 2011 are coming with high-end security devices that can be customised accordingly. This is how it works. The dashboard will have a place to display digital messages from your car's computer. It will warn you if your tyre's pressure is off or if a tyre is not at the same level as the others. 

This can protect you from damaging your tyre rims or in some cases, blowouts. Side assist detection: In India, cars definitely need this device. It would be good if we could install this in our own system as well. To avoid a collision, some cars like Mercedes come with this gadget. Now parking or changing the lane should not be a big issue.Airbag sensors: Airbags, something that car manufacturers say shouldn't be used much is still a sought after security gadget. Cars are now equipped with front seat passenger sensors. It works by having a weight detector in the front passenger seat. If the person sitting there does not cross a certain weight threshold, the passenger-side main airbag is turned off.Rear view camera: Women sure need this gadget. Rear-facing cameras can stop you from backing your car over a pet, (God forbid) a child, or any other object. This makes parking a lot simpler too. 

It can be hard to back out of spots where you have big cars parked on either side. It hinders your view of pedestrians walking in the parking lot and this is where the a back view could give you the smooth way in or out that you want to keep your life simple.(The writer is an auto expert and will be writing an exclusive column for us. Contact him at lifestyletribune@gmail.com) 

Chill Out 
Beauty of the backwaters 

Kerala is a gift to India by the divine powers. Unimaginably beautiful, it has all the wonders of nature. A blend of hills, backwaters, rivers, lakes, plantations, wildlife and rich culture, Kerala is rightfully called God's own country! I feel blessed to have visited the place. Our trip spanned almost the whole of the state covering Thiruvananthapuram, Kanyakumari, Varkala, Allappuzha, Kumarakom, Thekkady, Munnar and Kochi.

The backwaters of Kerala are picturesque. The visit to Allapouzha and Kumarakom was enchanting. A full day's stay in the houseboat, exploring the backwaters was like a dream. There was something surreal about the beauty of the backwaters. I wished I could have stayed on forever. But like all dreams, this too had to end!The highlight of the stay in Thekkady was the boat safari through the Periyar National Park. The two-hour safari took me into a state of trance. The final destination was Kochi, with wide roads, malls and all the traffic. 

However, the best part was that I was still holidaying!The 11-day Kerala trip was a treat for the eyes, a soothing experience for the body and truly rejuvenating for the soul.(Arjun Wadwalkar, a student from Punjab Engineering College, shares memories of his trip to Kerala)- — As told to Mona

The ‘In’ SIDE 
Sukhmani Bhore

Today, mirrors are not only used for their aesthetic value or as functional accessories, but also play a vital role in interior designing. Interior designers are constantly faced with situations where they are needed to design a room that may have structural flaws. In such cases, mirrors help us create illusions to take the attention off them. n Strategic placement of mirrors can hide strategic flaws. You can make a narrow hallway look wider or a small room look bigger by placing mirrors. n Mirrors used to add light are always used at an angle to an existing window and those used for space enhancement are placed in corners to give an illusion that the room continues.  

A mirror over the fireplace can be a focal point of the room and will reflect the entire room thus giving the feeling of space and enhancing existing fixtures. A mirror divider can be used to divide a specific area in a room to create an illusion of space. Adding mirrors at the back of shelves and cabinets will open up the space as well as highlight whatever you choose to place in them.n A mirror can be used as an artwork in itself to create drama. Mirrors with beautifully carved frames or mirrors cut in different shapes and sizes can be used as highlights of a room.n Besides hanging mirrors, mirror curtains, mirror strips and mirror mosaics are used to create dynamic effects in interior designing.n Make sure that whatever the mirror reflects is worthy of reflection. 

In Feng Shui it is believed that mirrors double the energy of what they reflect. For example, if a mirror reflects clutter, it will double your clutter in the house and cause unrest. On the other hand, if the mirror is reflecting the portrait of a god/goddess, a thriving plant or a happy family photograph, then the mirror is symbolic to doubling your happiness and prosperity. Bhore is a Chandigarh-based interior & landscape designer

Encounter with Kaleka's imagery

Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi is organising a unique event with a video installation projecting painted images and a power point presentation of acclaimed artist Ranbir Kaleka's works. Ranbir, a well-known artist and national awardee, is one of the most sought after video installation artists of the country. An alumnus of the Government College of Art, Chandigarh, he moved to Delhi to teach at the Delhi College of Art before leaving for London to study at the Royal College of Art. 

Ranbir Kaleka;
Magic in colour: (Above) A painting by Ranbir Kaleka; and the artist strikes a pose

Ranbir Kaleka's works have achieved significant international saliency during the last decade: they have been exhibited in museums, biennials, foundations and galleries in Venice, Berlin, Lisbon, Vienna, New York, Mexico City and Sydney, among other centres. Across the three decades of his artistic activity, he has produced both a remarkable body of paintings, as well as a body of trans-media works that combine sophistication with a calibrated opulence of image. 

During the last 12 years, Kaleka has orchestrated a number of arrangements of the painted image and the projected image, arranged so as to cohabit in the same space. If Kaleka is a sorcerer who draws out effects of the most enchanting and bewildering order for us, he is also an investigator who attends closely to the dynamics of the media he has chosen for his own. Today at the Government Museum & Art Gallery-10, Chandigarh, at 5:30 pm

chatter box
Comedy gets innovative 

We take a look at some comedy shows on TV that are not run of the mill and have innovative concepts. Check out these shows that have won over the audience and left them laughing out loud.Pyaar Mein Twist Pyaar Mein Twist on Star Plus is the story of the simple Amol (Manish Paul) and rich and stylish Rekha (Roshini Chopra). A lot of people are trying to split up the couple but it is their love and faith in each other that keeps them going. 

Khana Khazana: Deven Bhujani as Suhas This cute romantic- comedy with two completely opposite characters has definitely won our heart.Mrs Tendulkar Mrs Tendulkar on SAB TV is a comedy show with a message. Suhas (Deven Bhojani) works from home so that his wife can pursue her career with worrying about household responsibilities. It is heartening to see a husband encouraging his wife and being so considerate towards her despite being teased as Mrs Tendulkar by their nosy and jealous neighbours.Ring Wrong Ring Ring Wrong Ring on SAB TV is a fantasy show that has managed to raise a lot of laughs. 

It is the story of Mansi (Muskaan Mehani) who uses her magic ring to solve her problems but almost always ends up increasing them. The cute and talented Muskaan has won over the audience with her innocent housewife act.Tarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah: Tarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah on SAB TV is one of the most popular comedy shows on TV. This is a show that gives social messages in every episode but in a light-hearted manner. Lead characters Jethalal (Dilip Joshi) and Daya (Dish Wakani) the simple Gujarati couple are a hit with the audience.FIR FIR is a comedy show based in a place where you least expect to find comedy--a police station. 

Lead actress Kavita Kaushik carries the entire show on her shoulders with her side-splitting Harvanvi cop act. The main reason why this show is innovative is because it does not have any lead actor.Papad Pol: Papad Pol on SAB TV is the story of VInay Chand (Swapnil Joshi) who wins over his ladylove Kokila (Ami Trivedi) even though he is ugly. This comedy show proved that a person's nature and behaviour are more important than looks. The story also revolves around family bonding with some touching scenes between Vinay Chand's family members.

Playing Parag is challenging: Vivan

Vivan Bhatena, aka Parag of Sanskaar Laxmi, on Zee TV has recently being suffered from a health problem that almost left him immobile but he continued shooting for the show in spite of his condition. We catch up with the actor as he discusses his health, his character in the show as well as his hobbies and passions.You recently suffered from a back injury. What happened? 

	Bouncing back:  Vivan Bhatena I have a slip disc problem, which I ignored due to my shoots and also worked out rigorously. All that aggravated the problem. Once while playing tennis, I injured my back so badly that I could not even walk! I was bed-ridden and missed out on some plum assignments during that period. As the director of Sanskar Laxmi also suffers from the same problem, the team understood my situation. I remember during the wedding sequence Sushant Singh Rajput and I had to dance but it was tough as we both were suffering from back injury. Somehow we managed to complete our act by taking painkillers.You were shooting for Sanskar Laxmi in a wheelchair for the most part. Was it uncomfortable or did it help you?

A daily soap actor cannot afford to be away from the show for long. There were some scenes in which my presence was required, so I would drive to the sets after which my driver would help me to get into the wheelchair and I somehow managed to shoot my scenes that way. The cooperation of the entire team made it possible.Have any changes come about in your character Parag's track because of your health?There were no changes in my track as I managed to complete my scenes. Luckily, Parag was thrown out of the house so I was not required to shoot for sometime. I managed to get enough rest and underwent extensive physiotherapy sessions, which helped me to recover.How is it shooting with the team of the show and with whom do you get along best?We are lucky that we have a fabulous team, which is just like a family. I love working with Dharmesh, Aamir and others.You had done a couple of plays in the past. So, what is happening on that front?I have not got time to be part of plays recently but last year our play Personal War won an award for the best play at the New York film festival. We are planning to take the play to the Australian Theatre festival this year.What do you enjoy doing when you are off the sets?

I am into racing and gearing up for an event happening in April. I also have a film but can't talk about it.Which of your onscreen performances has impressed your wife Nikita the most?My wife loved me in Pyaar Ka Bandhan and appreciated my negative character in Choona Hai Aasman. She feels that Parag of Sanskaar Laxmi is weak but I find the character complex and challenging. Which TV show do you watch or want to be part of?I am hooked on to two shows--Mike and Molly and Episodes. The former is a hilarious love story while the latter is about how serials are made. I don't prefer watching Indian shows because it's like carrying work home. I will go mad if I do the same thing at work and at home too. — HRM

Beat it 

Indian in San Juan by Vipul Angirish featuring Jasbir JassiGenre: House trackLabel: Wind Horse Recordshttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fSJi2HpuvUEI like tracks, which are not only beat oriented, they should be musically rich too. This track has a different character and beat to it. 

Jasbir Jassi has given good vocals, which are powerful and soothing at the same time. The track has a foot tapping quality. Better the groove, better the dance ability. What makes this track a 'must include' on the playlist is a good mix of vocals and beats. Also, this isn't just a party track, on a long drive, this number could be the best company you could ask for. Thumbs up for the track! (As told to Jasmine Singh)

Babita has designs on Bollywood beauties

Designer Babita Malkani shares her opinion on the way people dress in Bollywood. She feels that Priyanka's short dresses have become boring while Katrina would look great in a corporate get up. Read on to find out what she has in mind for Sonam Kapoor and more.

Kangna Ranaut I like the way Kangna has worked around her sense of style. She was not so stylish before. Whatever she wears and however she carries herself, she at least does something different. She wears what she wants and pleases herself.

Katrina KaifKatrina Kaif
I would like to see her in classic cuts. Lovely pastels, corals, whites, blacks, and solid shades in crisp fabrics would look great on her. I would like to suggest her jackets and skirts. This look will be slightly corporate but very stylish.

Vidya Balan I like the way Vidya has turned her sense of style around. She wears clothes that are comfortable and make her feel a lot more confident. She looks beautiful in sarees, Indian attire, and the like. Earlier, she got a lot of flak for wearing Western clothes because her body type isn't suited for those clothes. She was not comfortable with them but still wore them under pressure. She has moved out and found her niche and that is fantastic.

Malaika Arora KhanMalaika Arora Khan
No matter what she wears, she carries herself very well and looks great. She has an aura about her. She is very confident. Even if she wears something from Fashion Street, she will carry it off very well and with a lot of confidence.

Priyanka Chopra She wears too many short dresses and looks the same all the time. Her look has become very boring and I would love to change that. I would give her slightly longer dresses (at least till the calf). The fitted silhouette is great but I would like to see more stylish and classic cuts on her. I would like simple, solid pieces on her minus any bling. The leg-show has to stop. We know she has a great body and we have seen enough of it. I would cover her up. 

The heroes I think the men dress very good. The topmost actors are very stylish and they know what looks good on them. Their sense of style is fuss-free and they look at comfort more than anything else, so they always look great.

Sonam Kapoor I like her sense of style. She styles and carries herself very well. If I were designing for her, I would create draped dresses for her. The look would be fitted and structured with an off-hand drape. I would love to see her in white. For an awards function, I would recommend her a stitched saree that looks like a gown. —HRM

When Sonam got angry 

Buzz is that Sonam Kapoor stormed out of the sets of Mausam in Chandigarh. When she arrived at the airport, her room was not booked and she had to wait for an hour and then when she reached the sets, there was no spot-boy or vanity van. She got very upset and left. Later in the evening, crewmembers convinced her to return and shoot the song.

Barbie give aways 

Katrina Kaif has decided who will get her Barbie-doll likeness when it is launched in stores. She is personally gifting the dolls to Farah Khan's triplets, her niece, her co-stars such as Ali Zafar and Akshay Kumar and all her friends.

Sleep lover 

Vidya Balan used to be an insomniac. That was until she realized that lack of sleep was causing her to gain weight and look and feel unhealthy. Now, she gets between six and nine hours of sleep daily and that has helped her look and feel great. —HRM

Drew's 'single' status

Drew Barrymore Drew Barrymore is switching over to the director's avatar once again to explore the love lives and break-ups of a group of New Yorkers in her romantic comedy How to Be Single. Barrymore is also producing the movie with her Flower Films partner Nancy Juvonen.The movie is based on the same-titled novel written by Liz Tuccillo and published by Atria. 

The movie is in the mould of New Line's successful multi-story pictures such as He's Just Not That Into You and Valentine's Day, she said.The 36-year-old star made her directing debut in 2009 with Whip It, the well-regarded female-centric roller derby flick starring Ellen Page, Kristen Wiig, and Marcia Gay Harden among others. — PTI

Bonded in art 
Manav Mander 

Artist Hema with her creations. For husband wife duo of Tejinder Ladi and Hema, art is the sole reason to get out of the bed in the morning, it is their way to meditate, a way of life.Their ongoing exhibition Colours of Life at Gallery Artmosphere depicts their emancipated outlook towards life."Art binds us together and gives us a way to be creative and express ourselves. It stimulates different part of our brains to make us laugh or incite us to riot, with a whole gamut of emotions in between," says the couple.

The paintings displayed at the exhibition are in a different medium, they say. "Some pieces are digital art, others are hand-made. I have used soft pastels, oil colours, charcoal, acrylic and technical pen," says Tejinder, an interior designer by profession.One of Tejinder's paintings Face of Punjab shows a modern Punjabi girl."Girls of Punjab have changed a lot. They are modern and are marching ahead in every field," he explains.Another artwork under the title Colors of Liberation depicts the law made in favour of lesbians. 

His work Beauty and the Beast shows a posh car but in the background it shows the pollution it generates. Hema, a postgraduate in Fine Arts, loves to paint nature and one see landscapes, seascapes, cityscapes and stills in her works. Knife work is her forte."As an artist I believe unless I am satisfied with my work, I cannot please the connoisseurs. Self-gratification is a must. We are critics for each other and discuss the themes and ideas," says a beaming Hema.They feel the most disappointing part in the city when it comes to art is that people here do not understand the real meaning of art. "They are buying Chinese printed paintings but fail to recognise the original piece," they sign off.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta 

Spatu If your birthday is March 18...Your career will take off well around August. You are likely to be honoured, rewarded and recognised. March will bring events like family get togethers, excursions and auspicious ceremonies. If you are of marriageable age, start designing wedding cards. Finance, fiancee, friends, films, fun, fortune and foreign tour will appear in your schedule one by one. Sky will be the limit to expand if in the business of real estate, gold, silver or stocks. Take care of your heart not medically but in romantic matters. Healthwise, 2011 is a medicine-free year for you. Yes, you should avoid addictions for a trouble- free time. Commitments should be taken seriously, especially in case of loans agreements, sale deeds etc. A betrayal by opposite party can mar all the financial planning in the end. You share your birthday with Alisha Chinoy (18 Mar 1972) known as the 'Indian Madonna'. Her song Kajrarey Kajrarey (Bunty Aur Babli) was a hit and Alisha won her first Filmfare Best Female Playback Award. 

Astro turf 
P. Khurrana

ARIES: The Lovers facilitate you to be open and inspired by new ideas. A surprise phone call could put you back in touch with a friend you have not seen for a long time. Youngsters will be best left to their own pleasures. Tarot message: Do not be in a rush to spend extravagantly.Lucky colour: Silver grey.Magic number: 54.

TAURUS: The Priestess infuses promise and commitment in personal relationship. Bring up the sensitive issues that everybody is skirling around which will encourage some open and revealing discussing. Today a long cherished dream may come true. A date with your lover will be at last come up. Tarot message: Spend time meeting experienced people. Lucky colour: Crimson.Magic number: 37.

GEMINI: The Prince of Wands comes riding with a promise of power and energy. Lots of secrets and undercover scenarios can make for an interesting day. This should be a pleasantly sociable day. Taurean people support you through a difficult time. Tarot message: Be positive; you can make things happen out of the most unlikely circumstances. Lucky colour: Brown.Magic number: 56.

CANCER: The Fool infuses you with courage. A neighbour has some gossip to divulge you. Make sure you really want to hear secrets or rumours about someone. If a family member is not cooperating; refrain from arguing or trying to persuade. Tarot message: Don't try to end all the deadlocks at one go. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 25

LEO: Ten of Pentacles bode extremely well for relationship and romance. Today you will be able to enjoy interacting with people who share your views and thoughts. Your ability to communicate well will help you to enhance your reputation. Tarot message: Do not let trivial problems haunt you. Lucky colour: Deep red.Magic number: 28

VIRGO: The karmic Wheel of Fortune turns in your favour. Do not put up with a headache or a neck-pain; visit a doctor or other health professional before it gets too late. Trust your institution. Beware of strangers in the evening.Tarot message: Capitalise on your strength and do not trust others. Lucky color: Forest green.Magic number: 32. 

LIBRA: The Prince of Pentacles infuses a financial stability. Libra hosts will find appreciation and applause for their culinary talents. Delays can be expected today. A happy surprise awaits you. Love stars twinkle.Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health. Time will heal all pains and wounds. Lucky colour: Cherry red.Magic number: 43.

SCORPIO: Like the The Knight of Cups, you are emotional in personal relationship and graceful on social occasions. Be bold to speak out what is in your mind. Professional success will blend with anxiety, as changes are imminent. A new love affair will put you in a romantic frame of mind. Tarot message: Lack of persistence can be disastrous in business matters.Lucky colour: White.Magic number: 47.

SAGITTARIUS: Do not get sucked into overtime. Plan some fun and relaxation with friends and loved ones and leave stress city behind. The Magus brings change and travel. A brief business cum pleasure trip is just on the cards. A Leo friend is supportive.Tarot message: Don't waste an opportunity by being rash or impulsive. Lucky colour: Turquoise.Magic number: 44.

CAPRICORN: Ace of Swords pulls you in opposite direction when making a decision. A yearning for overseas travel and adventure could encourage a career of your choice. Do not overlook a chance meeting that may lead to future romance. Kick old habits. Tarot message: Keep your eyes on the future as you do so.Lucky colour: Fiery red.Magic number: 28.

AQUARIUS: Some very interesting and unusual people come into your sphere of business and money and give you a few different ideas on how to go about financial matters. Tonight rest and pamper the body. Minor muscle aches may be bothersome. Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health. Time will heal all pains.Lucky colour: Lotus pink.Magic number: 33.

PISCES: The Prince of Cups brings you to your truths, hopes and desires that you mask with a calm surface. You are good at getting people to express their opinions and keeping your own hidden. Do not bottle up your emotions and become agitated. Tarot message: Be positive; you can make things happen out of the most unlikely circumstances. Lucky colour: Peacock blue.Magic number: 36.





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