Stars behind the BAR
Flair-bartending is the latest craze. And bartenders are skilled entertainers who have many interesting tricks up their sleeve when it comes to mixing up drinks they serve...
Rahul Singh

Just as one takes his seat on the bar stool, the bartender flashes a smile and takes the order. He then tosses the glass in the air, spins the bottle on his palm, flips it over his shoulder and pours a long stream of whisky into the glass. He flips the bottle back to where it belongs, adds the soda with a wry grin and tosses in the ice-cubes. He further sets the napkin in a quick twirl before placing your drink in front of you, all without spilling a drop.

The latest rage to hit Chandigarh bars is that of ‘flair bartending’. Flair bartenders are not just like other bartenders; they are entertainers who have some serious moves up their sleeve when it comes to mixing up drinks they serve. We give you a peep into the lives of some of these performers behind the bar.

Cocktail jockey

Vineet learnt flair bartending four years back in Goa. Today, he tours the country to showcase his talent with flair. “Flair bartending is about performing and entertaining your customers. It deals with stylishly preparing and serving cocktails. I don’t just serve a drink, I serve it with style,” says Vineet, flair bartender and Indian ambassador to the World Flair Association. And not only is Vineet’s avocation stylish and monetarily rewarding, it is equally glamorous. “I get to interact with all kinds of celebrities and well-known faces in town. It indeed is a glamourous industry, giving one the right kind of exposure,” he says. Ask him about the probable goof-ups and he says, “At the end of the day we all are human beings and not robots. Bottles tend to slip out of your hands, glasses tend to fall and spillage does happen, but not too often. One tends to master the art with time and practice.”

Vineet Mishra, owner, cocktailjockey.com

Extreme bartending

Kuldeep learnt flair bartending while he was still in college, started practicing thereafter and knows all its nuances. “There are actually two types of flair practiced, working and exhibition. The difference between the two is all about the speed and routine,” says Kuldeep. “To do flair, and do it well, it takes a lot of practice and talent. One needs to have dexterity, skills normally reserved for juggling professionals, and also a lot of patience. One can even go a step further by manipulating flammable liquors for a truly fiery show,” he adds. “People really like the over-the-shoulder exchange, behind the back catch et al. It feels great when you finish your routine and get appreciation from guests and customers,” he says.

Kuldeep Singh, flair bartender

The Showman

Ramesh Thakur aka Ronnie got fascinated with flair bartending after watching the Hollywood flick ‘Cocktail’ starring Tom Cruise in the avatar of a flair bartender and learnt its nuances about five years back.

“I seek to entertain my customers. At the end of the day they too expect something more than the regular. Items such as cocktail shakers, tins, glasses, and liquor bottles become more than just tools used to create the perfect drink. They become props in the show, used in many unique ways,” says Ronnie. Ask him about the bartending scene in the city and he says, “Nowadays, bartenders with flair are much in demand by reputable hotel chains, clubs and restaurants. Furthermore, film stars and other celebrities often hire us, as a special feature at their private parties.”

Ramesh Thakur, flair bartender

Customers’ Delight

Brij Mohan aka Bunny has been bartending with flair for the past nine years and says that customers’ satisfaction is his ultimate objective. “There are many ways of giving customers the satisfaction that they want. Not only do we flip bottles and other objects, but also pour stylishly and accurately, communicate well with everyone, take multiple drink orders at a time, team bartend, smile and remember names. I believe that represents a complete bartender,” says Bunny.

“We aim at cultivating customers and even suggest them cocktails in tandem with their preferences to ensure that they come back to us. It’s new for them but the responses are amazing,” he adds.

Brij Mohan, flair bartender

So, if you’re planning to stop over at a bar or pub this evening, look for one that offers professional flair bartending. And enjoy your refreshing drink along with some awesome, visual entertainment that flair bartenders offer. For free!

My calender is an act of social service: Shah
Ashima Sehajpal


voluptuous beauty: Kashmira Shah strikes a pose

We term it as a bold act; you might call it odd, maybe a bit appalling. Then there will be those who'll instantly call it sexy and appealing. But what Kashmira Shah has to say about her controversial calendar doesn't fit into any category of expression, "It's an act of social service."

And the statement sets the mood for what's in store; she explains her social cause - "I am not plastic. I am naturally well endowed. Calendar is a means to tell women not to go for plastic surgeries," says Kashmira, in Chandigarh to launch her calender at Kava, Sector 26.

'Trust' her intentions because to address the concern, she wore an extremely revealing dress in electric pink colour for the event. "There were rumours of air-brushing my calender pictures. So, now I wear what would prove these rumours as baseless." She takes it as a complement when the calendar is referred to as her bold act, but doesn't agree to it being her first one. "I was the first one to do item songs for films and to do a reality show at a time when TV celebs were apprehensive of doing them. Actors have always followed me. In fact, now we have A-list actors doing item numbers."

Taking a cue from her name, Kash, the calender begins from the financial year April 1 to March 31 next year. She has 12 different looks in the calendar, each for a month. "The most difficult pose was the one is which I am just covered with plastic stripes," she adds. Draw a comparison between her calender and others of the kind and she immediately states the differences, "The mother company has got mileage and not the models. For my calender, I am the face as well as the brand ambassador." The second difference, she adds, is that it's not on the expected lines of wearing a bikini in a water pool or beachside. "We experimented with fur, a snake, even plastic stripes." The pictures, she asserts were not easy to click. "Every pose took a 100 shots to get the perfect one." One of the reasons she quotes that took the shooting four months time is - "There were times, when everybody around used to stop working. I would then ask my art director only to know that it was nobody's fault, but mine. I was dressed up in such a way that it would make it difficult for people to concentrate on work." A look at the calender is enough to realise, she is speaking the truth — four months diet is no joke after all!

Sure of the success of the calender, she says that she was never scared of people's reactions. "Kamasutra was in India thousands of year back. My body is god's gift, so why shy away from it." Besides giving a philosophical reason, she has a realistic justification of bragging about the calendar as well, "Jo dikhta hai wo bikta hai." The last reason she once again states for doing it is, "It's a social service."

And look we believe her!

ashima@tribunemail.com

Of vision called art
Deepali Sagar

Art teaches us to see the world aesthetically. We all have eyes but our varying inclination towards art sets us apart and makes us view things differently feels Atul Dodiya. He is in Chandigarh for an art workshop at Government Museum and Art Gallery, Sector 10. The six-day workshop (March 25-30) will give a chance to aspiring young artists to learn from his experiences.

Universe of art

Art is everywhere. We can see it every moment of our life. Art lies in nature’s beauty as well as within every human being. The difference occurs what we view and how we view it. “It depends on us what we see and how we perceive it. That perception is called Art. Moreover, it is art that teaches us to see things carefully,” says Atul. He believes that art gives us immense pleasure and is a source to let out one’s inner feelings. “Canvas is one medium where one can let the brush do the speaking and the outcome is definitely creative that too straight from the heart,” he says.

Love for small towns

Atul is inclined towards sharing his experiences with budding artists from small towns and cities. “In metropolitan cities, people have various options and opportunities to learn. The intensity and passion to learn something new is much more in the people of small towns but they just don’t have enough opportunities,” he adds. He feels that with such efforts young artists can learn a lot through exchange of ideas.

His inspiration

People create something every single day but inspiring things are those, which are novel. “My influence has been Picasso. The way he created something new every time is just amazing,” he says.

However, even after so much of experience and expertise he still thinks of himself as a student.

The eatery
Sweet temptation
Poonam Bindra

The brownie first gained popularity during the 1893 Columbian Exposition in Chicago. A combination of a cookie and cake, the original brownie had an apricot glaze coupled with walnuts. Ever since, the chocolaty treat has been a favourite with its melted chocolate glaze, which can either be whipped cream or chocolate flakes. Brownies come in a variety of forms. They can be fudgy or cakey depending upon the density. Another very interesting variation is the Blondie (when the brownie is prepared with brown sugar, without chocolate).

Any cake or coffee shop would be special only if it serves brownies, perfected to tingle the taste buds of choco-buffs so as to goad them into asking for more. We scouted around town to savour the best brownies.

Rishika's Sweet Temptations at Udham Singh Nagar, Ludhiana: Vegetarians, especially the 'non egg-etarians' had reason to cheer when Sweet Temptations came up with two varieties of vegetarian brownies. They sold like hot cakes. The crunchy éclair brownie with its layer of éclair coupled with a crunchy topping gives one a full chocolaty flavour plus the crispness.

The vegetarian Swiss brownies too with their marbled exterior give a rich creamy taste and when served with chocolate frosted fresh fruits, like Kiwis and strawberries, make it a deadly combination.

Priced at Rs 55 and 65 depending on the variety.

Bakes and Beans, Pakhowal Road: The all hip and happening coffee shop is quite famous for it's succulent brownies.

Having the right amount of crunch (courtesy the walnuts), when teamed with ice cream it becomes the ideal dessert to go with a grilled sandwich. While with black coffee it becomes a sinful combination.

"Bakes and Bean's brownies are a rage at parties is known to put any body in a good mood," comments the waiter at Bakes and Beans

Priced at Rs 45 and 100 with ice cream.

First time sex and self-image
Women became happier with their physical appearance from the first to the fourth year in college, and men became less satisfied with their appearance over the same time period, the Journal of Adolescence reports

First time sex boosts self image for men, not women. First time sex can be like a double-edged sword-it makes or breaks self-image, depending on whether you are a male or female.

Usually, college-going males become more satisfied with their appearance after their first sexual encounter, while the opposite is true for women. "We're not talking about 12-year-old girls having sex, so it's striking that even among these young women - who are 17 or older when they first had sex -- their images of themselves went down," said Eva S Lefkowitz, who led the study.

"If on an average they're feeling worse about themselves, it says something about their development of a healthy sexuality and a healthy sense of self and being," added Lefkowitz, associate professor of human development and family studies at Penn State University, US.

Overall, the researchers found that women became happier with their physical appearance from the first to the fourth year in college, and men became less satisfied with their appearance over the same time period, the Journal of Adolescence reports.

Researchers found the opposite after students had sex for the first time, males were more satisfied with their appearance.

In previous studies, researchers found a positive body image can reinforce risky sexual behaviour in male college students, said Sara A Vasilenko, a graduate student in human development at Penn, as per a statement.

Researchers surveyed 434 students asking them about their "attitudes and experiences in relationships with other people."

All students were traditional freshmen -age 17 to 19 years-at the start of the project. The researchers administered the same survey to these students four times over the course of their college careers.

— IANS

BOOK MARK
A little heart-warming tale
Mona

Aanchal Kumar, who travels often for her fashion shows and brand endorsements, values time. Her favourite pastime on the move and otherwise: reading.

Her current read, Heaven is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back.

Plot of this 2011 bestseller by Todd Burpo and Lynn Vincent caught Aanchal's fancy.

"It's based on a true story of the four-year old son of a small town Nebraska pastor who during a surgery slips from consciousness to heaven. The story is told the father in little boy's words largely," says Aanchal.

"I am midway through novel and enjoying fascinating experience of the little boy's journey to the heaven," she adds.

One book that never leaves Aanchal's bookshelf is Rhonda Byrne's The Secret. "Whenever I am growing through a tough phase I just pick up The Secret. It has worked wonderfully well for me just like millions of others."

Quiz her on her favourite character. "It has to be Scarlett O'Hara from Gone With The Wind. Scarlett's beautiful romance has left me mesmerized since my school days," says Aanchal.

Back to Heaven is for Real, "It's a loving heart warming tale that I am enjoying every bit of," avers Aanchal.

mona@tribunemail.com

Wah Ustad
Sarod maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, a living embodiment of 'sound is god', is humility personified
Mona

A deep human spirit is what Sarod maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan carries within him. Serene, warm and caring is how Khan Saheb comes across as he addresses a press conference on Saturday at the UT Guest House.

In Chandigarh to be part of Chandigarh Art and Heritage Week, Khan Saheb is humility personified. "It was in 1961 that we thought of settling in Chandigarh forever. The tempo of life is sukoon bhara (tranquil) here," he shares. It's another matter that the family could not stay here for long. Khan Saheb divides his time between New Delhi and New York, when he is not travelling around the world for his concerts. And he takes the responsibility of being India's cultural ambassador seriously. "We ensure that we are punctual. Rest, the world revers our classical tradition. Sarod concerts are spontaneous, one improvises on the spot. Probably its only downside is that we cannot repeat the concert," he shares. "We have been blessed with a rich heritage and it's the responsibility of each one of us to maintain that," he says.

As he talks one can see the connect with all that Khan Saheb has come in touch with. He fondly remembers his guru and abba whom he questioned endlessly about sarod in his childhood as he tried playing Come September. "It's not easy, it's only by the grace of God that we are able to whisper and sing through the same instrument that shouts," says the Ustad.

"Abba’s dictum was 'We did what we deemed right, you follow your heart'," says Ustad Amjad Ali Khan and this is the same approach that he follows with his sons Amaan and Ayaan. A proud father and Guru, he says, "It's heartening to share the stage with Amaan and Ayaan. Both are dedicated, noble souls who often surprise me with the hardwork they put in for concerts." As Khan Saheb's talks meanders between countries across the globe his love for his 'saaz' comes up again and again. "We just finished touring Canada in - 30 degree with snow all around, all the time I was anxious about sarod, how would it bear such extreme weather," says Ustad Amjad Ali Khan.

His work is next taking him to the US, where he will have concerts with his sons. "I am all for those who have reverence for sarod," says Khan Saheb who was touched by Prince Charles' gesture of having a concert hall in his farmhouse for him to play. Quiz him on state of music today and he says, "Music is only of two kinds - sound and words. Sound is pure music be it of any instrument or alaap. Words are manipulated and sadly today its words that rule the music. For me, who sings and plays in rhythm is a true classical musician." An alaap that he takes and we know what he means!

Do you really know your best friend?

You think you know everything about your best friend that there is to know, but do you really? Do you know how does your best friend feel when people act needy? Or, about people being dishonest? What do they think when others seem uncomfortable in social situations? According to a study, if you don't know - your relationship may pay a price.

There are lots of ways to know someone's personality. You can say "she's an extrovert" or "she's usually happy." You may also know how he or she reacts to different situations and other people's behaviour. "It's a more detailed way of understanding personality," says Charity A Friesen, a graduate student at Wilfrid Laurier University, who co-wrote the new paper with Lara K. Kammrath. “You might know the person is an extrovert when they're out with their friends but more introvert when they're in a new situation.”

When a person is faced with one of a list of situations, then how does he or she behave? Friesen identifies this as an “if-then profile.” Friesen and Kammrath recruited university students to fill an online survey. The triggers included skepticism, gullibility, social timidity, social boldness, perfectionism, obliviousness and several dozen others. The study appears in Psychological Science, a journal of the Association for Psychological Science.

— ANI

Kate may not pledge to ‘obey’ William

Kate Middleton may only pledge "to love and to cherish" but not "obey" Prince William when she chooses her wedding vows.

Rowan Williams, the Archbishop of Canterbury, who will marry the couple at Westminster Abbey on April 29, said the centuries-old tradition of "obeying" one's husband was "sexist and outdated".

Royal aides, meanwhile, said the couple have chosen their vows they will use, but want to keep their decision under wraps.

Guidelines published by the Archbishops' Council said a wife promising to "obey" her husband was an "archaic notion" and could even be used to justify domestic violence.

The 2006 report - "Responding to Domestic Abuse" - said: "A promise to obey was in the past part of different standards and expectations of women and men within marriage, for example the fact that women had no standing in law until 1926." — IANS

The eatery
Brownie point
Jigyasa Kapoor Chimra

Brownie-a cross between a cake and a cookie is one of the most relished desserts across the globe.

However, the exact origin of how brownie was created is difficult to trace since there are many conflicting stories regarding how they came to be.

But brownies are believed to be of the US origin and the name comes from their colour brown.

A flat, baked square or a bar, brownie is a slice from a dense, rich chocolate cake. Available in various forms, they are either fudgy or cakey and may include nuts, frosting, and whipped cream and even chocolate chips.

Made from eggs, sugar, flour, melted chocolate and nuts, the recipe may vary from person to person but the earliest published recipe for chocolate brownies appears to have been for "Bangor Brownies" back in the Boston Daily Globe (1905).

So, considering the love for brownies, this week we get for you five places for that perfect slice of a brownie.

Chef's special

A slice of sheer pleasure at Nik Bakers in Sector 35 and 9 where you can try out the all-so-loved brownie in three varieties - plain, walnut and egg-less.

That's not all, by this weekend you can also try their fudge and a caramel brownie.

Price: Starts at Rs 65 and goes up to Rs 90 (depending on the variety you choose to eat).

Sheer pleasure

Old player in chocolates and cakes, at Monica's in Sector 8, you can relish the brownie in two varieties - plain and walnut. And mind you, many of the restaurants in the city also serve brownies made by Monica.

Price: Rs 50

Choco surprise

Try the chocolate walnut brownie at Swiss Pie in Sector, Sector 19. Available in square and triangle shapes, the brownie here is soft and sweet for a perfect dessert.

Price: Rs 40

Deadly combo

The very idea of a hot cuppa coffee and a brownie is tempting. Try a brownie at any Café Coffee Day or Barista outlet and we are sure you'll like it.

Price: Rs 80

Walnut treat

Baker's Hub in Phase V, Mohali, is another shop to try the brownie. Here you can try their chocolate walnut brownie.

Price: Rs 50

Bollywood loves Kapil

Abhishek Bachchan
Fan club: Abhishek Bachchan
Bowled over: Kangana Ranaut
Bowled over: Kangana Ranaut
You bat: Vidya balan
You bat: Vidya balan
Hats off: Sonu Sood
Hats off: Sonu Sood

Kapil Dev brought the World Cup Trophy home in 1983, then Saurav Ganguly took the Indian team to the final in 2003 to be defeated by the Australian team.

We all are hoping that like Kapil Dev, Dhoni will bring the trophy home again. Bollywood celebrities talk about their favourite Indian captain.

Sonu Sood

Kapil Dev, because he is a senior cricketer and one of the best captains we have ever had. So anytime, it has to be Kapil Dev.

Eesha Kopikar

Kapil Dev had the willpower and the aggression that was required to win. And now I can see the same aggression in Dhoni.

So, let's hope he turns out to be our next best captain.

Aftab Shivdasani

It's undoubtedly Mahindra Singh Dhoni because he has all the qualities of a captain.

Abhishek Bachchan

Kapil Dev got the trophy home so he has been one of the best captains.

I also feel Saurav Ganguly was one of the best captains who actually got some great players and made India reach the finals. So Saurav is my favourite.

Shah Rukh Khan

All the captains are great! Kapil Dev is a legend and Saurav has played some brilliant matches and has found Yuvraaj Singh and Dhoni.

Today, Dhoni too is doing a great job.

Vidya Balan

For me, it has always been Kapil Dev because he won the World Cup match in 1983.

He is fiery and motivating and has made me fall in love with the game. So it is Kapil Dev for me!

Kangana Ranaut

Kapil Dev, anytime.

He has got the aggression and motivation. Kapil Dev is my favourite captain.

BOLLYWOOD DIARY

New friends

Bipasha Basu and Rana Dagubatti are the new friends in Bollywood and Bips loves sharing everything with him. Let's see how this story shapes up because they get along very well.

Preeti's 'Abhay' connection

While speculations about Abhay Deol being the man in Preeti Desai's life have been going on (and neither party is willing to confirm or deny), it might be a coincidence or deliberate that there is another Abhay in Desai's life.

Preeti's love interest in Shor In The City, played by the New York-based Sendhil Ramamurthy, is also called Abhay!

BOLLYWOOD gossip

Dostana revived
ye dosti: priyanka chopra
ye dosti: priyanka chopra
party hunk: salman khan
party hunk: salman khan
hotty in tow: Rana Daggubatti
hotty in tow: Rana Daggubatti

Priyanka Chopra shot for an advertisement for a camera with Dostana director Tarun Mansukhani. The director has made an appearance in the commercial as himself.

Patch up

Kangna Ranaut and Anurag Basu have patched up after one year. They had a spat last year because Kangna's role in Kites was chopped and the director kept offering her psychotic roles when she wanted to get out of that mould. The make-up happened on her birthday.

Rana to Bip’s rescue

Rana Daggubatti came to Bipasha Basu's rescue at a press conference for Dum Maaro Dum in Hyderabad. He tackled all the questions directed at Bipasha’s personal life and played her escort. Bips needs a protective arm around her now!

Brave face

Shahid Kapur has been quite heart-broken post his split with Priyanka Chopra but he makes sure he smiles when the cameras are around. He has been chilling with his friends in Goa and he is also trying to make new friends and flirting with pretty girls.

Latecomer

Salman Khan arrived at Kangna Ranaut's birthday bash at 4 am. The party was over by the time Salman reached her house with his sister Arpita but with his entry, it started again.

Of course, it’s expected when the man in question is Salman! —HRM

Lip lock

Lover boy: Matt Damon
Lover boy: Matt Damon
Hugh Jackman
Hugh Jackman

Actor Matt Damon is looking forward to lock lips with Michael Douglas for their new movie.

Damon will play Douglas' lover in a movie about gay piano legend Liberace.

"It's scripted that there's more than one. I never thought I would get to kiss Michael Douglas," contactmusic.com quoted Damon as saying.

Douglas, who revealed in January that he is in remission for stage four throat cancer, is equally enthusiastic about the project.

"I am just going to get really comfortable so it's not a caricature. Matt Damon is going to be my younger lover.

God bless Matt. I saw Matt and I was teasing him.

I was saying, "Bring a lot of chapstick, babe," said Douglas.

The film will be helmed by Steven Soderbergh. — IANS

Shah Rukh gives Hugh Dhak Dhak moments

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan is a true entertainer and never misses an opportunity to please his fans. King Khan on Friday surprised everyone at an event when he made Australian star Hugh Jackman shake a leg to Madhuri Dixit's sensuous hit number Dhak dhak karne laga.

It was a treat to watch them dancing to the song at the closing session of the 12th FICCI-Frames, an annual conclave on media and entertainment industry.

Shah Rukh was sharing the dais with Jackman for a discussion on Hollywood and Bollywood and once it got over, SRK decided to end it on an entertaining note. He offered to teach the "X-Man" star a few desi steps and Jackman jumped to the offer.

Jackman's excitement was evident as he removed his coat and then stood next to Shah Rukh, visibly eager to learn the moves.

Shah Rukh not only shook a leg on the song but also sang it and Jackman as a sincere student copied him excellently, leaving the audience completely enthralled.

Even the session was quite entertaining owing to the wit and sense of humour of Shah Rukh and Jackman.

During the discussion Jackman exclaimed: "I love My Name Is Khan and I think I should act in the sequel to the film, which we can call My Name Is Jackman with a tagline - and I'm not a tourist."

Shah Rukh revealed he is a big fan of Jackman, saying: “I'm a huge fan of Hugh Jackman and his films especially. I'm very excited to be here. Hugh is absolutely fantastic.”

On a serious note, Jackman, known for his performances in films like Kate & Leopold, Van Helsing, The Prestige, and Australia", expressed his pleasure on being a part of the summit and coming down to India.Director Karan Johar was the moderator of the session. — IANS

astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: A healthy competition instinct can be harnessed for greater accomplishment. Stick to what you know and you won’t go wrong. There may be trouble brewing in the family. Do not let too many people know what you are planning. Friends and finances should not be mixed. Tarot Message: Versatility and a quicksilver mind will bail you out of a situation. Lucky color: Turquoise. Magic Number: 64.

TAURUS: Working overtime, an urgent job, dealing with a crisis are all possible reasons for being dragged back to the workplace. A chance encounter with an ex-flame may revive old memories. Do not lose your temper. A hectic evening ahead for teenagers. Tarot Message: You find within yourself a fountainhead of a will power. Lucky color: Saffron. Magic Number: 24.

GEMINI: You should give a serious thought to your business. Decisions that need to be made especially involving career should not be put off. The day will produce one or two pleasant surprises. Be alive to the danger of minor injury. Tarot Message: Focus on the better to mitigate the bitter. Lucky color: Silver Grey. Magic Number: 54.

CANCER: A major domestic purchase can be made with confidence but may not be available until next week. Be patient, even though you want it immediately. Students: You can be successful in your written tests. Love life suffers due to family problems. A comfortable evening ahead. Tarot Message: Versatility and a quicksilver mind will bail you out of a situation. Lucky color: Ebony. Magic Number: 27.

LEO: Put knowledge into practice or learn how to do something better. Working women: Be careful while dealing with clients. Having a good time need not imply unhealthy or greedy behaviour. Romance and friendship blossom as acquaintances become pals and pals become lovers. Tarot Message: Plan your life to avoid the in build delays that comes your way. Lucky color: Peacock green. Magic Number: 29.

VIRGO: Your card is Fortune, so this can be a good day on the financial front. Try your luck at a range of speculative possibilities. Women between the age group of 40-45: better take care of your health. Sportsmen, especially cricketers, may win the game. Tarot Message: Use careful judgment in handling issues involving property. Lucky color: White. Magic Number: 61.

LIBRA:Relations with fellow workers are on a high and your popularity can increase. Schedule group meeting today. Shareholders may find the day quite beneficial. Businessmen: Think twice before signing a new deal. Spend your evening in the company of your loved ones. Tarot Message: Yet work could pose certain minor difficulties but don't worry. Lucky color: Rainbow Pastels. Magic Number: 55.

SCORPIO:It will be the minor pinpricks that provoke you. Workers in the factories will cause a number of delays. Newly married will find home atmosphere tense. Trying to make last minute changes and continual adjustments won’t help matters. Welcome new relationships into your life.Tarot Message: Empty promises are certain, therefore try to put your terms and conditions in writing. Lucky color: Pomegranate red. Magic Number: 32.

SAGITTARIUS: Your card Four of Wands promises an excellent day. Do not feel guilty about taking time out. Focus on meditation, yoga & exercise. A sudden improvement in your fortune is indicated. Relationship could be severely damaged. Tact is required to avoid a head on collision. Tarot Message: Delays are the only obstacle in your way to success. Lucky color: Ebony. Magic Number: 42.

CAPRICORN: Charm, diplomacy, respect and cooperation are far better attributes to employ in dealing with people if you want positive results. Job applications yield good results. Domestic affairs seem frustrating so simply avoid them now. Physical exercise is imperative to relieve stress. Tarot Message: Do what is right and watch your best interests. Lucky color: Pink. Magic Number: 65.

AQUARIUS: Pleasant day for everything. Be prepared for multiple invitations to social events and gatherings. Turn your attention to jobs that gives you an opportunity to make the best use of your intellect. A comfortable evening for those in love. Senior citizens: meditation gives you relaxed mind. Tarot Message: You gain by being practical; don't be emotional. Lucky color: Golden Brown. Magic Number: 27.

PISCES: Doing a spell of overtime or catching up with work at home would help pay the bills. Now is the time to distinguish clearly between wants and needs. You can look forward to hearing from a friend. Shopkeepers may find the day quite hectic. Tarot Message: Don't be dismissive of advice from youthful origin. Lucky color: Royal Blue. Magic Number: 36.

the year ahead
If your birthday is March 27...
Madan Gupta Spatu

Having a positive approach, inspiring personality and bestowed with leadership qualities, you shall make your presence felt everywhere in 2011. If planning to purchase a new vehicle or changing an old one, the Navaratras commencing from April 4 to 13 will be the most auspicious period. A long lasting wish will be fulfilled. House management may make a big hole in the purse, so be careful while using credit limit. Celebrations, wishing birthdays, attending marriages and such ceremonies may cost more than expectations during October to December. Make provision now. Your basic number 9 is hostile to year number, which comes to 4[2011]; hence the year may not prove very comfortable from finance point of view. Be patient and advance carefully. A trying and testing time is ahead no doubt, but new-age living, a new environment with a spotlight on enjoyment…is something to be happy about in 2011.

Renuka Shahane (27 March 1965) also shares the birthday cake with you. A very familiar face on televison, Renuka, married to Ashutosh Rana, also a Bollywood actor, was seen first in popular TV serial, Surabhi, in 1993 along with Siddharth Kak. She became a formidable host on the show. It showcased Indian culture and arts from various parts of India.She became popular after her role in Hum Aapke Hain Kaun, a 1994 blockbuster film with Madhuri Dixit. She has her maiden Marathi film as a director called Rita. A few movies — Dil Ne Jise Apna Kahaa, Sun Zarra are in her bag. She recently anchored a classical programme Rang De on TV. In 2011, she will be seen in more charming appearances on small as well as big screen.

chatter box

Remo returns to DID

Remo D'souza who was one of the judges in Dance India Dance (DID) for the last two seasons will return to the show this week but only as a guest judge. He will be there to promote his film Faltu. Remo will also perform along with judge Rajeev Surti.

Pratyusha’s obsession

Pratyusha Bannerjee aka Anandi of Balika Vadhu has revealed that she is obsessed with herself. She can spend hours preening and posing in front of the mirror. She also claims that the mirror is her friend and always shows good things about her.

Armanon Ka Balidaan to go off air?

Sources claim that Armanon Ka Balidan on Imagine TV will wrap up next month. The show has always been in the news since its launch. Dolly Bindra was reportedly being paid Rs 1 crore for the show and then there was a controversy about the word Aakarshan being used in the titles since director Prakash Jha had already registered it. Unfortunately none of these controversies helped the show gain TRPs due to which it has been shown the door.

Threats to Beend Banoonga…producer

Producer S Farhaan of Beend Banoonga Ghodi Chadhoonga to be aired on Imagine TV has revealed that he had been receiving threats from local goons that they will destroy the sets if he does not employ locals. One day they even barged on the sets in large numbers and destroyed whatever sets had been created. They even beat up the workers, some of whom had to be hospitalised. After a few weeks the producer, cine employees organisation and a local activist sat down and found a middle path to the issue. The producer is relieved that the show will now be going on air as planned.

Rakhi’s Swayamwar
Rakhi Sawant
Groom hunt: Rakhi Sawant

If you thought that item girl Rakhi Sawant has had enough after going through several breakups, you are wrong. For Rakhi has just begun another Swayamwar. This time none other than Comedy Circus comedian Bharti's mother will anchor it. She has exchanged places with Rakhi Sawant's mother in the reality show Maa Exchange. Bharti's mother, it seems, is all set to hunt for a groom for our item girl. Bharti's mother will look for a potential groom wherever she and Rakhi go. Will Rakhi accept this behaviour or will this result in irreconcilable differences between the two? Find out on Maa Exchange on Sony.

Neha’s future plans
Neha Marda
Neha Marda

Neha Marda says that she prefers arranged marriage over love marriage and she has a valid reason for the same. Neha feels that if a love marriage goes wrong there is nothing to fall back on but a girl can return to her parental home if she has had an arranged marriage.

She wants her future husband to be madly in love with her and filthy rich which matters the most. She has her future planned to the T.

A peep into our stars’ mind
Find out what television stars fantasise about as they talk about their wildest fantasy

Karan Wahi: I have a fear of heights so skydiving would be my wildest fantasy. I think it will always remain a fantasy and I will never be able to do it. No matter how much I try to tell myself that I should give up my fear it never works. So, absolutely no chance of me skydiving but it will always be my wildest fantasy.
Ashita Dhawan
Ashita Dhawan

Ashita Dhawan: My wildest fantasy would be adventure sports, maybe jumping off an aircraft with a parachute. I am scared of adventure sports unlike my husband Shailesh who enjoys it. He tried everything from scuba diving to swimming with sharks during my honeymoon in Mauritius but I am a coward and really scared of trying out all these things.

Chaitanya Choudhary: My wildest fantasy is space travel because exploring the unknown would be really exciting. Outer space has not yet been explored fully and I would love to be the one to do that.
Shruti Ulfat
Shruti Ulfat

Naman Shaw: Being in a tree house in the jungle next to a beautiful secluded valley is my wildest fantasy. I would also have my girlfriend for company.

Shweta Salve: Getting married in Brazil is my wildest fantasy. I have always had this fascination for Rio de Janeiro but have never got an opportunity to visit the place.

So I look forward to visiting Rio and probably getting married to my dream guy there.
Kratika Sengar
Kratika Sengar

Shruti Ulfat: Living in the Amazon forest would be my wildest fantasy. I would only require basic means of living.

What could be wilder than moving straight out of the city and settling in the Amazon forest?

Kratika Sengar: My wildest fantasy would be visiting Ladakh with my loved one. I think it's the most beautiful and romantic place.

I am not too wild so this would be one of my wildest fantasies.

Music in comedy

The next season of Comedy Circus Jubilee on Sony will be called Comedy Ke Tansen as the acts will have an element of music in them. Archana Puran Singh, Navjot Singh Sidhu, Rohit Shetty and Tusshar Kapoor have been approached to judge the show. Abhijeet Sawant of Indian Idol fame, Rahul Vaidya, Raja Hasan, Neha Kakkar are being considered as contestants. 

beat it
Dj Teenu

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-STaJpIvuk

Track: Enrique Iglesias Tonight I am Loving You (Dj Teenu Arora Bootleg mix)

He is the best singer of the industry. I like the track because it can be mixed with various instruments. A soothing romantic number that be turned into a danceable track anytime. Other than this, the lyrics are a USP of this song, well though of with a soulful touch. The best thing about the song is that it has a trademark Enrique style. Carry it in you ipod or play it along when you drive, I am loving you tonight is the number you sing and play along for eternity.

(As told to Jasmine Singh) 





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