SHOOT AT SITE
...TARGET PUNJAB
Jasmine Singh

Script, themes, characters or songs…more and more B-town directors are shooting at various locations in Chandigarh and Punjab


Visit to the Golden Temple was a turning point for Samir Karnik, director Heroes and Yamla Pagla Deewana:
I had no clue about Punjabi culture when I was shooting for Heroes, but a visit to the Golden Temple changed everything for me. Now, I call myself Punjabi by choice. I love to shoot in Punjab, it has an open ambience, the food is good and people are warm. I wouldn't say the production cost is less because outdoor shoots cost more. The fact that Punjab gives the original look that no other state gives, we like to shoot here.

If you fall in the category of an exclusive Bollywood junkie to be precise, you wouldn't have missed the 'cut to' Punjabi locations in the movies. Whether it is a Kareena Kapoor and ex-Shahid Kapoor exchanging final goodbyes sitting on an old tractor in the backdrop of lush green farms (Jab We Met) or Salman Khan and Ajay Devgn busy planning the future in the khet and khaliyaan (London Dreams), Punjab and the well-planned city of Chandigarh seem to figure in the top 10 cities where Bollywood directors like to shoot.

Imran Khan romances Katrina Kaif in Chandigarh for Mere Brother Ki Dulhan, Akshay Kumar dreams about Barbie Kaif at the Golf course, Chandigarh, while the team of Little Terrorist, a movie that won Oscar nominations at the 77th Annual Academy Awards shot extensively in Ludhiana. So, now Chandigarh and Punjab are the most sought after shooting locales. And why?

Theme decides location: Akshay


Hero Worship: Youngsters get ready to pay homage to their favourite hero. Photo: Himanshu Mahajan

Every second movie has something of Punjab - locations, songs, dresses or actors. Our Sonu Sood from Moga is a testimony. Says Akshay Kumar, who was shooting in Chandigarh for Shrish Kunder's Joker, "I don't make a deliberate attempt to shift the movie location to Punjab. If the theme demands, well, then we have to. Much as I like the place, I feel as a Punjabi, it has become next to impossible to take the Punjabiyat out of me." Punjab and Chandigarh are good shooting destinations, as per the demand of the script.

It's on...

Katrina Kaif and Imran Khan were seen shooting for Mere Brother ki Dulhan
Joy Ride: Katrina Kaif and Imran Khan were seen shooting for Mere Brother ki Dulhan

The recent Mere Brother Ki Dulhan starring actors Katrina Kaif and Imran Khan and Shahid Kapoor-Sonam starrer Mausam have been shot in and around Chandigarh and Punjab. In the past, Dev D, Jab We met, Namaste London, Singh in Kingg, Veer Zara, Ab Tumharey Hawale Watan Sathiyo, Apney, Yamla Pagla Deewana were shot in both Punjab and Chandigarh. According to Darshan Aulakh, actor and line producer for movies shot in Chandigarh and Punjab like Veer Zara, London Dreams,Jab We Met, Heroes, Singh is Kingg, Bachna Ai Haseeno, Rab Ney Bana Di jodi, Dil Boley Haddipa, Mere Brother Ki Dulhan' shares his view. "The state offers original locales. And when the director needs to get a hip and happening element in Punjab, they shift the location to Chandigarh. "Apart from this, the production cost in the city and Punjab is less." Darshan handles production work like location hunting, transportation, catering and arranging local artists.

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Sonam is the new gadget guru

Sonam Kapoor
Sonam Kapoor

Bollywood actress Sonam Kapoor was named the brand ambassador of the year at Gadget Guru Awards 2011 held by a television channel in Gurgaon on Monday night.

"I am a gadget freak. You will find everything from laptop, cellphone to iPad and iPod in my closet. They remain with me all the time. I can't leave my mobile even for five minutes. Gadgets have become a way of life today for any generation," Sonam said in a video message after receiving the award. She is the brand ambassador of Spice mobiles.

Sonam, who has been quite active on microblogging site Twitter, says technology comes with its positives and negatives.

"It depends how you are involved in it. Twitter is a great platform for putting down your thoughts and sharing it with others but some are desperate for fame and obnoxious. I have blocked many fame crazy people who have been obnoxious," she added. — IANS

New-age patriotism
Jasmine Singh

Sometimes courage is a little act of standing up for oneself; sometimes it is a voice within that tells you - 'one more try'. At other times, courage is calling a spade a spade or an act that gives you self-satisfaction.

Definitions vary; however, it takes a day like March 23 to stir up the feeling of courage in us, in most of us to be precise. It sometimes takes the picture of fearless martyrs Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev on Faceebook to remind us that we need to find the meaning of courage in our own lives. And how…

It is a humble request…

There you go, some worthwile use of a social networking site Facebook other than Farmville! As many as 2,200 communities on Bhagat Singh were created from March 19-22 by youngsters across India. Interestingly, most the communities like Shaheed Sardar, Free To Fight, Freedom Xpress, Bhagat Singh, Shaheed-e-Azam have more or less the same make in terms of pictures and matter posted on the wall. Adarsh Mangat from Ludhiana invited 5,000 people on FB to join his community called Free To Xpress, wherein he asked everyone to share one courageous act they had done. "I am not boasting, but I have read extensively on Bhagat Singh and he is one freedom fighter who inspires me the most. The sad part is that the only time we remember him is on his birth and death anniversary. So, I decided to create a community where people can share everything related to the word 'courage'," shares Adarsh.

Harpal Sekhon, an engineering student in Ladran, has sent a humble request to all Indians in general and to all Punjabis around the globe in particular, to wear a white turban on March 23 as a mark of respect to Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru. He adds, "Girls and non-Punjabis can wear a white shirt. It's a matter of shame that many of us don't even remember these great freedom fighters."

Ink me braveheart…

Tattoos surely depict style, attitude and state of the mind. Diljit Brar, 25, shows us his tattoo. "I got it done three years back. You probably think I am flaunting it," he gives us a blank look. "I don't take up a fight with everyone, but I just don't take nonsense," he says.

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Chatter Box
What’s your lucky charm?
Natasha Coutinho

Terence Lewis
On Record: Terence Lewis

All of us have certain things that we consider lucky for us and actors are no different. We get actors to reveal all about their lucky charms.

Alisha Khan: My home is full of feng Shui items that I consider as my lucky charms because I am a strong believer of feng shui. I have things like Wind chimes, showpieces like horses and other animals and also an aquarium. All of them bring luck into the house.

Anuj Sachdev: I have leather bands that I consider as my lucky charms. I have these bands right from the time I came to Mumbai and was looking for work in the TV industry. I need to have these with me all the time and wear them whenever I feel that I am not feeling confident about myself. It's been four years now and I still have the bands with me and carry them wherever I go.

Manasi Parekh: I consider my smile to be my lucky charm. It always works for me and others around me. Whenever I feel that something is not working I just have to smile and things fall in place. Besides that there is that gift that my friend had given me that I consider to be my lucky charm. It has three angels of luck, love and happiness. They spread positivity around me.

Neha Jhulka: My mom had gifted me a guardian angel made of ceramic that she had bought from Switzerland. It is very cute and I consider it as my lucky charm that will protect me. I have now hung it in my car.

Keep smiling: Manasi Parekh
Keep smiling: Manasi Parekh

Band Width: Anuj Sachdev
Band Width: Anuj Sachdev

Made in Switzerland: Neha Jhulka
Made in Switzerland: Neha Jhulka

Glittering affair: Pooja Ghai
Glittering affair: Pooja Ghai

Avantika Hundal: I consider the number seven to be very lucky for me and I strongly believe in it. Besides that I also have this wallet that has been with me right from my college days. I have a lot of wallets but always make it a point to carry that wallet in whatever wallet I am using. My lucky wallet contains some things that I had collected during college.

Divyanka Tripathi: There is a taveez (locket) that a eunuch called Gudiya had gifted me and after I started keeping it with me everything started falling into place so I consider it to be very lucky for me. In Bhopal eunuchs are respected and treated very well. Gudiya used to regularly visit my house and perform her dance on special occasions. I always keep the taveez with me because it is lucky as well as because it reminds me of Gudiya's love and affection for me.

Vivaan Bhatena: I have a taveez that I consider as my lucky charm. I had got it from Kerala during childhood and I still have it with me. The locket has Lord Krishna's photo in it. — HRM

Pooja’s new venture

Pooja Ghai Rawal, who launched Gold awards with her ex-boyfriend Vikas Kalantri and is now is happily remarried to her ex- husband, is working on yet another awards called Rang. Pooja's Rang awards will felicitate achievers in television. As they are working towards finalising the idea and details of the event, Pooja isn't willing to talk about the same. She wants to make this a gala affair, which is touted to be a two-day event with a fashion show. Apparently Sony has bagged the rights of telecast.

Terence creates world record

Choreographer Terence Lewis, judge of Color's Chak Dhoom Dhoom, broke the record for largest Bollywood class choreographed on a Bollywood song. He accomplished this feat on the show Guinness World Records— Ab India Todega on Colors, hosted by Preity Zinta and Shabbir Ahluwalia.

Terence and his assistants trained the huge group for an hour before they set off to break the record at a St Theresa school grounds in Mumbai. This ground breaking feat, which was open to everyone, drew an unparalleled total of 1336 people who danced together on the song Jhoom Barabar Jhoom.

Host Shabbir along with Guinness World Record Adjudicator Rob Molly, who was the designated official from Guinness World Record, declared the effort as successful. The participants were also given a T-shirt, bandana, certificate of participation and an autographed photograph of Terence as memorabilia.

The previous record was set in Australia last week where over 1,235 people led by Malaika Arora Khan shook a leg to the song Munni Badnaam Hui at Melbourne grounds. Catch Terence's record breaking act on Ab India Todega.

Dolly Bindra’s wish for comedy

Comic timing: Dolly BindraAfter her big hungama on Colors' Bigg Boss, drama queen Dolly Bindra wanted to showcase her skills in comedy. She was influenced by numerous comedy shows and wanted to be the part of the recently launched comedy show on Star Plus-Comedy Ka Maha Muqabla. Though she did try to get in touch with the producers but she expressed her wish too late as the contestants and judges had all been finalised. Better luck next time Dolly.

Comic timing: Dolly Bindra

Dj Sanjana’s song of the day
Beat it

On The Floor
Artist:
Jennifer Lopez

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4H_Zoh7G5A
On the floor from Jennifer's seventh studio album Love is a peppy number with Latin beats with a sample of Kaoma's 1989 hit single Lambada. She has in incorporated both the singing and dancing elements. It is also the first single from Love to be released by Island Records, and the second time that Lopez and Pitbull collaborated on a song; the first being Love's. As a DJ I find this track a good base to mix progrssive to it. This number can fire uo the dance floor, what else does a deejay want—a track that can rock. The unfinished version of the track was released on line, much before the final one, but the popularity has only grown. Check out the track and grove to it as long as you can! 

(As told to Jasmine Singh)

How the stars function...

Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan and Akshay Kumar have their ways of working. We tell you how.

Shah Rukh Khan

He is very insecure and constantly wants to prove that he is number one. He wants to make money but he wants to do so by making memorable and substantial cinema. He feels the need to better himself and prove something with every film. He wants Ra.One to be absolutely spectacular and is leaving no stone unturned in ensuring that all his efforts are made at his end. He is a sharp businessman and knows what sells, what people want to see, and how to attract his target audience. He uses his charm to his advantage. He turns his flaws to his favour with his sense of humour.

Akshay Kumar

He only wants to make money and does not care about the quality of his films. All his films, whether it is De Dana Dan, Bhool Bhulaiya, Singh is Kinng, Housefull, etc. are all run-of-the-mill, mindless commercial films. As long as producers are paying him, he does not care about their content. If a producer approaches him, he takes the signing amount and gets any director and actress on board. The film is then sold to a corporate house. So, if the film flops, the loss is borne by the corporate house. That is why producers line up outside his door to sign him.

Aamir Khan

He is totally involved in the making of his films. He is very secure about himself, his passion and craft, his work, and the cinema he invests in. He works for himself and follows excellence. So, success and adulation follow him. He is a trendsetter. He is a perfectionist and he interferes in the pre-production, production, and post-production process until he is satisfied with the film. He is a marketing genius and knows how to sell his movies. That is why Jaane Tu Yaa Jaane Naa did well. Abbas Tyrewala was not very lucky with Jhootha Hi Sahi and it was a terrible film. — HRM

Mallika challenges Munni and Sheila

Mallika Sherawat
Right move: Mallika Sherawat

Move over Munni and Sheila, the husn-ki-'Mallika' is here! After the music charts went ablaze with Munni Badnaam and Sheila Ki Jawani last year, here is yet another sound track from Reliance Entertainment and Maruti International's Double Dhamaal, directed by Inder Kumar, which will set the screens on fire. News is that the sultry Mallika Sherawat just finished shooting for a sexy and steamy number titled Jalebi Bai for the movie.

Sources present on the set revealed that the actress is looking super hot and ultra glam at the same time. The four-day schedule of the song was shot at Mehboob Studios, where a lavish set of a casino was created to give the song the right look and feel. The sources also commented on Mallika's dance in the racy number and said, "She's got her enticing moves right and is sure to give the Munnis and the Sheilas a run for their money!"

The song has been choreographed by ace dance master Ganesh Acharya and music is by Anand Raj Anand. Looks like we have another smashing chart buster on its way! Double Dhamaal is slated for release this June.

Kashmera to do an item number

Item code: Kashmera Shah
Item code: Kashmera Shah

Bollywood actor Kashmera Shah, who has been in the news for her topless calendar shoot recently, has shot for an item number for NRI filmmaker Manan Singh Katohara's 9 Eleven, touted as the first Hindi film shot entirely in Washington.

Kashmera, who is seen more on the small screen than in movies these days, will be shaking a leg in a song called Let's do chummaalingan.

The item song is composed by Jatin Pandit, who earlier worked on films like Khiladi, Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikander and Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge. The lyrics have been penned by Sanjay Chhel.

9 Eleven is made under the banner of Amar Durga Films & JMD Creations. The film portrays the life of 10 people from different walks of life thrown together in an unfamiliar place and terrorised by an unknown entity.

— IANS

Trend Setter
Elegant yet perky…


CHIC STYLE: Daisy Mirza. Photo: Pradeep Tewari

Every person has a sense of style. Yet, there are only a few who warrant a second glance, or make heads turn. The magic could lie in tousled hair or torn jeans! This week's face in the crowd, Daisy Mirza, a fashion student in Panjab University, Chandigarh, believes in understated elegance.

Your sense of style is…

Fashion and style are more of changing obsessions. They keep evolving but I consider myself to be "simple yet elegant" and "a romantic perky sorts."

Latest addition to your wardrobe…

I feel the best way to start a new season is by adding a special 'something' to your wardrobe. My latest acquisitions include a lot of summer apparels in hues of blue.

Brand freak or street junkie?

I am neither. I pick up whatever I find different and whatever appeals to me. Not to forget whatever that makes me feel comfortable and confident.

Choose a look; sporty, glamorous or chic

Glamourous

My style icon would be…

Michelle Obama. She is elegant and choosy about her clothes.

So who's the worst dressed celebrity around?

I guess that would have to be Vidya Balan. I wish she knew what suits her and dressed up accordingly.

One fashion trend you just don't understand…

Punk inspired sense of dressing.

Your take on accessories

I have my own fashion philosophy when it comes to jewellery and accessories. "Lesser the better."

One thing that boosts your confidence:

Compliments

(As told to Manpriya Khurana)

If you think you too fit the profile, get in touch with us at lifestyletribune@gmail.com

Learning, off-shore
Deepali Sagar

Nineteen students from classes IX, X and XI of Vivek High School are set for an exchange programme to the US, South Africa, Germany, Australia, Peru, Canada and Jordan

Vivek high students are all set for the exchange programme
Get set go
: Vivek high students are all set for the exchange programme

They are off to the best schools around the world — 19 students from classes IX, X and XI of Vivek High School, Sector 38, Chandigarh, are raring to go on an exchange programme to the US, South Africa, Germany, Australia, Peru, Canada and Jordan. "Vivek High School is a member of the Round Square Student Exchange Programme-2011. Our students will be taking part in the ongoing school activities as well as adventure projects," says Rajbir Sandhu, the Round Square Representative of the school and an English teacher.

Enriching experience

Make a wish, take a chance and break away; this is what Shaira Bedi, exchange student to the USA, feels. "For me this is a 'once in a lifetime' opportunity. Even though the idea of going to an entirely new place is a bit unnerving, I am still game for it. It will definitely transform me as a person," she says. For some students, however, this is a chance to learn about different cultures. "This two-month programme will give me a chance to learn about their culture. Moreover, it is an amazing way to learn how to adjust in a different environment," says Sanjana Prabhakar, who is going to South Africa. Scheherzade Sandhu feels the same, "It offers so much. I will get to meet people from all over the world. It will be an enriching experience."

Not a vacation

"This exchange programme isn't about going to a different country for a vacation. It is based on the spirit of community service and internationalism. It would be right to call it a hands-on work experience," says Rajbir, another student.

Adds Gurseerat Brar, who is going to Peru, "I am going to be a part of a Round Square service project. I will work in a village for three weeks where construction for underprivileged people would be going on".

Global outlook

"The reason for having such projects is to make the students global. Exposure to people is very important for overall development. A student shouldn't become the proverbial frog in the well. Moreover, we want our students to learn to be responsible and fight their own battles. Due to this, we have asked the parents to have minimal interference in this programme," says Rajbir.

IT’S ROCKING
Ashima Sehajpal

Lak 28 scores

The first time you hear this song, you can't help wondering at the lyrics. There are ample songs dedicated to the hourglass figure of women but none has ever been this specific with statistics.

The song from the movie, The Lion Of Punjab, sung by Daljit Doshanjh and Honey Singh opens with the vital stats of the girl in question, lak 28 and 47 weight. It also shares with us her beauty secrets like the butter cream she uses to keep her skin glowing and even talks about her Lady Gaga like tattoo. Not to miss, the song acknowledges that the bombshell is techno savvy and uses a white I-phone. Anyways, the song boasts of over six communities on facebook, with an amazing 10,000 members. Hear it straight from the fans

Call on me

I haven't heard such lyrics ever before. Each word fits well in the context of a modern girl. After a very long time there's a Punjabi track that I don't mind playing again and again. The beats are peppy, which makes it a great dance number. I won't mind making it my caller tune.

Mridu Chauhan, BDS student

Contemporary beat

After Panga by Daljit Dosanjh, this is his best song till date. The song has fresh, contemporary lyrics and it has become a huge hit only because Daljit has sung it aesthetically. Also the rap by Honey Singh adds zing to the track. No wonder, it tops the UK bhangra list this week.

Latika Sharma, Bank employee

A little tacky

The number by Dosanj appeals instantly to first-time listeners, but after a few playbacks it does sound a little tacky. Anyways, so far so good for a foot-tapping number the peppy Punjabi Way

Sherry Grewal, medical student

Popular lyrics

It is the height of non-conventional lyrics that are fast getting popular and can be grasped quickly, especially by children.

Ritika Duggal, housewife

(With inputs from Poonam Bindra)

GET PHYSICAL
Curve out the perfect figure
Anil Juneja

BEND IT: Demonstration of camel pose
BEND IT: Demonstration of camel pose

People, whose jobs require them to be seated all day tend to develop a lot of fat in the lower back area. This is due to the fact that these areas are not getting worked out. Try these yogic movements and shed those extra kilos.

Camel Pose: Bend on your knees and inhale simultaneously. Then raise your arms, bend backwards and hold your heels. Push forward from the hip joint. If you're not able to touch your feet without compressing your lower back, turn your toes under and elevate your heels.

Tip: If you will not stretch your back, it won't be effective.

Tiger Pose: Bend on your knees and hands. While exhaling, bring your forehead and one knee closer. As you inhale, raise your head and legs. Now again while exhaling bring your forehead and knee closer and while inhaling raise your head and legs. 5-15 repetition can be done with both the legs.

Tip: Do not bend arms at the elbow and keep the thigh and arms vertical throughout the posture.

(Anil Juneja is a Chandigarh-based yoga expert)

Heart talk
Parvesh Rana

I suffer from panic attacks when faced with emotional issues. They started when my first relationship went wrong? Now, I face commitment phobia. I have jitters meeting people and whenever there is any scope of relationship building, I chicken out from the situation?

We cannot lead our lives based on past experiences. We need to understand that everyone has a different temperament and no two people are alike. Let go of the past and live in the present. Meet people without any baggage. Avoid meeting people with a blocked mind. If you are too careful and too on your guard, you can never come out of the past.

I come from a broken family and this has affected my psyche badly. I don't think I can ever restore my faith in the institution of marriage. Can you help me out with it?

If your parents fought then there must be reasons, but this does not mean that you nullify this institution. It is a beautiful thing to happen. Besides, the success rate of marriage in India is more than any other country, which states how many people invest their faith in it. So, go ahead and take things as they come.

Parvesh Rana, actor and anchor, will write this weekly column. If you want a piece of advice on matters concerning the heart, send your query to lifestyletribune@gmail.com

Robots that can fool you

Researchers at the Lockheed Martin's Advanced Technology Laboratories have developed a robot that could operate around humans without being detected. The robot takes a zigzag path to avoid well-lit areas and sentries, and approaches the target building under the cover of darkness, reports New Scientist.

It builds a computer model of its surroundings and incorporates information on lines of sight. A laser scanner covertly maps its environment in 3D, and acoustic sensors distinguish nearby footsteps and their direction.

According to lead engineer Brian Satterfield, the robot avoids visible detection by sentries of known locations, potential detection by sentries whose positions are unknown, areas in which the robot has no means of escape, and areas that are well lit.

To make it hard to spot in the dark, the robot was painted black.

If the robot believes it is in danger of being detected by an approaching sentry, it will try to get to a place where it can hide, said Satterfield.

The robot was built with off-the-shelf components.

However, he said that specialised hardware, which is more compact and quieter, would improve future robots' mobility and their ability to stay hidden.

"There are very few fundamental limits that would prevent robots from eventually conducting extended covert missions and evading detection by humans," said Satterfield. — ANI

Try a bindi with Western wear

Jessica Simpson
Jessica Simpson

What is common between Hollywood icons Miley Cyrus, Alecia Keys, Gwen Stefani, Katy Perry and Madonna? They have of late been spotted wearing an Indian fashion accessory — the bindi.No Indian attire is complete without an appropriate bindi, and over the years it has turned into a fashion statement not only in India but in the West as well. The number of young girls sporting bindi abroad is noticeable. Has bindi become a fad again?"If you ask me, bindi is neither in nor out. It fits beautifully with the Indian look, especially saris. Yes, Madonna and many other pop stars use bindi. It's fun for them to look different, but for us it creates a magic. And, being an Indian we cannot keep ourselves apart from bindi. As Indian designers we have to create a little magic so that it breaks the barrier of being Indian to a global format," said Delhi-based designer Joy Mitra.

"Styling differs from person to person. I might style bindi in a certain way, but honestly one has to be sure and confident about the right colour, size and with what garment it should be worn. I might use a bright red big bindi with my traditional saris or a small diamond or Swarovski bindi with my jackets," he added.The word bindi is derived from the Sanskrit word bindu which means a dot.In India, bindi is usually worn with saris and salwar kameez, but how can we make it a more global accessory?

"One can match bindis with clothes that have a lot of lace... also with Victorian style gowns made with wispy fabrics like chiffons and georgettes. Full skirts and dresses have a lot of volume and bindis gel with them," designer Aastha Bahl suggested on how to team the bindi with Western wear.

Shilpa Rastogi, a college girl, said: "I often wear bindi with long skirts and t-shirts. I also like wearing bindi with jeans and t-shirts. It's all about how you carry it. It need not necessarily be associated with saris or salwar kameez.

"Bindis can be worn in various shapes and designs. "You can draw straight vertical lines or an oval or a triangle or a miniature artistry in various colours with the help of a fine-tipped stick," said socialite Tanisha Mohan. And if you want to make it more prominent, "Dust it with gold and silver powder or add a stud or a bead," she added.In olden days, bindis were usually worn with vermilion powder but later sticker-bindis with glue on one side came and became a hot favourite and now they are available in various shapes and sizes. The daily television soaps have also given a makeover to bindis. Actresses like Sudha Chandran and Uravashi Dholkai popularised bindis by trying them out in various shapes and designs. So, if you want to make a fashion statement, try bindis with with Western wear, but be innovative when it comes to designing them. — IANS

West learning from East?
Poonam Bindra

Getting interactive: foreign students spend time with special children
Getting interactive: foreign students spend time with special children

Eliminating boundaries and overcoming barriers, the youth has the ability to eradicate differences between countries, cultures and nationalities. It was this feeling that was highlighted at the foreign exchange programme, run under the aegis of YFU — youth for understanding.

The exchange students come and stay for a year's time enjoying the warm hospitality of a local Indian family, integrating into their lifestyle while also attending school. Such exchange programmes have an impact on both the Indian as well as foreign students. From personal confidence to social satisfaction, they help mould vast aspects of an individual's personality. Mostly in the age group of 18-19 years, these enthusiastic young students are keen not only to savour the Indian hospitality but also to take up social welfare projects.

French national martin Duplay, Norwegian lass Liza Yvonne Mele, Brazilian citizen Luiza Honon have voluntarily opted to assist in the teaching and rehabilitation of students of Nirdosh school for the mentally challenged in Sarabha Nagar. "I learnt Hindi only after reaching India and now I am teaching the same to my friends" says a bemused Martin as he guides Gautam on the computer. Impressed by the school and atmosphere, Martin, looking suave in a white kurta pyjama, says that he likes the respectful student-teacher relationship in India.

Surat Singh, principal, is also excited seeing the level of participation, as it is indeed proving beneficial for the children of NIRDOSH. "Their reactions are also a learning experience," he says. The children are taught to make myriad objects ranging from bags, candles, holi colours, wrapping sheets to various decorative items. "If I can teach one child to be self-sufficient and earn some money, my day is made" says Luiza. The students said NIRDOSH should be expanded and more teachers should be recruited to enhance the social cognitive powers of these special children.

Astro Turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: The Ten of Pentacles reveals that the fortune can be made or lost in a fleeting moment. Do not argue with people. Superiors will be contrary. Keep your expenses down. Do not gamble or speculate. Tarot message: Do not divest assets or transact in uncertain matters. Lucky colour: Rust. Magic number: 65.

TAURUS: The temptation to keep spending money has not abated. Know your worth. Do not invest too much in ventures. Do not be impulsive. Encouraging news will lift your spirits. An Aquarian friend may create a problem. Tarot message: Resolve conflicts through discussion, meditation and understanding. Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 56.

GEMINI: Mistakes may prove costly. Keep receipts of transactions and read the fine print. Mental and physical energy can be successfully combined. Be gentle with subordinates. Routine travel is advisable. Tarot message: Beware of judging people too harshly. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 45.

CANCER: Creative work must not put you through additional expenses. Postpone signing important documents. Beloved brings love and warmth. The lure of alcohol may appeal to some Cancerians but try not to overdo it. Tarot message: Make a choice and then live with the outcome of your decision. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 29.

LEO: An upswing in your earnings keeps you in high spirit. Family relationship can be restored to harmony. Sportsmen should focus on exercise. Do not bite more than you can chew. Your pet will be source of happiness. Tarot message: Don't be judgmental with people. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 30.

VIRGO: Contacts and networks should be a rich source of opportunity for financial ventures and educational growth. You should not allow yourself to be guided by friends. Romance could be upsetting. Expect a guest in the evening. Tarot message: Don't be judgmental with people. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 52.

LIBRA: Trust your feelings and look for the silver lining. Avoid gambling. An excellent day for professionals. A solid appreciation brings rewards. Do everything possible on your own before calling for assistance. Secret sexual liaisons might take you out of the main stream. Tarot message: You are facing adversity and challenge and still holding your ground. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 46.

SCORPIO: Get cracking early. Must push yourself harder. Use imagination to make your surroundings more pleasant and attractive. Romance may blossom at your place of employment. Steer clear of trouble and do not react to provocation. Dealing with in-laws will not be much fun. Tarot message: You will need to learn how to cope better with success. Lucky colour: Royal blue. Magic number: 63.

SAGITTARIUS: A better day than yesterday. A problem with an older relative can be sorted out. Romance wakes up and startles you into an understanding of your own emotional fabric. Relaxation and cruising is what suits you the best. An Arian friend will be supportive. Tarot message: Spend time meeting experienced people. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 32.

CAPRICORN: The early part of the day is likely to be important. This period is not good for sports person. Chronic patients should consult their doctor. Leave stress, worries and cares behind. A good round of physical exercise will help you to iron out any pent-up frustrations. Tarot message: Do not refuse offers without seeking advice. Lucky colour: Metallic grey. Magic number: 27.

AQUARIUS: A small bout of homesickness may creep in, but do not let it spoil things. Rise of income continues. You will have to watch your emotions today. Spare time should be devoted to creative activities. An excellent day for journeys. Tarot message: You will need to learn how to cope better with success. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 61.

PISCES: The best day to contact influential people. Romance will be particularly exciting. Keep on the track that you have already set. This is a perfect time for family get together. You should concentrate only on projects with reliable outcome. Tarot message: It is no longer necessary to take risks. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 54.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is March 23...

Relationship bond with whom you are involved shall flourish and remain result oriented.

If looking for a life partner, 2011 will prove to be the final destination. May and June may keep you busy in seeking credits from financial institutions to purchase the dream house. July to September will be the period to finish the pending issues, start new projects to touch the targets. Work pressure in job or in own business may shoot up during winter season but you will overcome with more dynamism, active plans.

Promotions if the department is planning in the financial year ending 2012, will belong to you. Immense pleasure, entertainment, joys are main ingredients in the menu of 2011-12.

So the road is traffic—free , you also drive the vehicle of life tension -free in the coming time. Yes safeguard the health just from precautionary point of view otherwise you may not have to see the chemist shop even throughout the year.

Nicholle TomNicholle Tom (March 23, 1978) who celebrates her birthday today and shares it with you, is a famous actress. Though she is best known for her role of Maggie Sheffield on The Nanny. She is the twin sister of actor David Tom. Before being famous as Maggie Sheffield, she was known for playing a role in the equally famous Beverly Hills.





HOME PAGE | Punjab | Haryana | Jammu & Kashmir | Himachal Pradesh | Regional Briefs | Nation | Opinions |
| Business | Sports | World | Letters | Chandigarh | Ludhiana | Delhi |
| Calendar | Weather | Archive | Subscribe | Suggestion | E-mail |