BOOK-ed for life
Facebook has a whopping 25 million users in India now. And the reasons are not difficult to understand…
Ashima Sehajpal

 Karan Chhabra
model move: Karan Chhabra

When your friend count determines your socialising capabilities; when status messages and birthday wishes to your account sharers decide your communications skills; when having an account alone qualifies your being a computer literate, you realise Facebook is not a mere social networking site!

Nearly three years after Facebook spread out of the premises of Harvard University and became free-for-all, it has touched a mammoth 25 million mark of users only in India and is counting. Your account is the index of your personality and for various other reasons like this, it’s so important to be present and active on FB.

Onir, director of just released film I AM and actor Sanjay Suri realised the potential of the site two years ago when they posted, “We will be making a film based on four true stories. I need funds and if you can, kindly contribute.” What followed were donations from a cross-section of public and in one month’s time, enough money was collected to begin shooting of the film.

Showmen: (L-R) Onir and Sanjay Suri

Says Onir, “Besides using it as a social networking site, it now helps you in business networking and even to address social causes. It’s definitely an alternate platform to promote a film, which doesn’t affect the producer.” When FB entered India, it already had a competitor in the form of Orkut, which was also adjudged the ‘Youth Icon Of The Year’ in 2007 by MTV. Orkut then defeated the likes of ‘Rang de Basanti’ and Abhishek Bachchan.

“Just after one year, FB has a bigger success story to tell,” says Ankit Fadia, world-famous ethical hacker. He terms the success of FB as phenomenal. “It had better features than Orkut and provided privacy at the same time. Even now, FB keeps on updating latest features. Not in the near future, would we have a site that can match FB in terms of popularity.” He credits the spiralling numbers to cellphone users, who have access to FB anytime, anywhere. “As many as 600 million users globally, also proves that it is an extremely user-friendly site.”

Just as Onir used it to raise funds for his films, fashion designers reach out to their clients through FB. Salim Asgaraly has all the videos and pictures of his individual fashion show held at Dubai uploaded on FB. Jai and Parvesh also posted pictures of a collection that they showcased at their fashion show at LA. Says Salim, “The response that my collection gets on FB is so overwhelming that at times I feel there is no need for a physical store. It’s a cost free medium that provides maximum response.”

The use of the website is not determined by age; if FB users include celebrity names like Priyanka Chopra, Karan Johar and Varun Bahl, it also has 70-year-olds as its members. Sujata Sharma, a mother of two college-going students, feels FB has helped her enter the private space of her children. “It keeps me updated on what’s going on in their college life. It doesn’t mean spying on them, but knowing their lifestyle better, which would of course mean a better understanding among the family members.”

With 1,800 plus friends on FB, Karan Chhabra, aspiring model from Chandigarh, feels without FB, networking wouldn’t have been as simple. “FB is a more powerful platform than sites meant exclusively for professionals. It serves all purposes, which no other site does.” The simple reason, why Ankit once again terms FB as ‘an astounding phenomena’.

ashima@tribunemail.com

BOARDING the best
Planning to send your child to some prestigious boarding school? Here’s how, where and what to know
Parbina Rashid

To send or not to send! If one has crossed the first hurdle and reached a consensus on sending, then comes the next question — where and how? These are the three stages every parent goes through when it comes to sending his or her child to a boarding school.

Should one go by the hearsay or go by the information available on the Net or visit each one of them? But trust us when we say this, even a personal visit to most of the prestigious public schools in the country can add only to one’s confusion. If Lawrence School-Sanawar is lucrative for its picturesque campus, then the rustic vitality and simplicity of the Scindia School, Gwalior, is equally attractive. To add to the indecisiveness is the Mayo College, Ajmer. So how does one make a choice?

Some guru mantra comes handy here, especially if it comes from someone like NK Tewari, an educationist who is currently associated with NIIT School learning programme and director of the Scindia School Development Project, Gwalior, “No school is good or bad; if the set of values you give your child at home match with the values of the school, then that is the right place for your child.”

Now that Tewari’s gyan gives a direction as how to choose the right one, it’s time to find out how to go about the admission procedure.

“Preparation for the entrance exam should start from April and it takes about seven months to complete the course,” says Jayashree Raina from Sector 34 who prepares children for various boarding schools. Jayashree, who teaches children English, general knowledge and how to face an interview, prefers to enhance a child’s language skill to tackle all sorts of problems rather than teaching them just how to answer specific problems.

Teaching a child the right answers is one thing and instilling the seed of competitiveness among children as young as nine, is another. This is why Renu Walia, who runs a coaching centre to prepare children for boarding schools, also teaches her students the significance of such entrance exams. “We try to strengthen the foundation of a child when it comes to mathematics and grammar, both English and Hindi, so that the child can attempt any questions, even the ones outside the syllabus,” says Renu.

Such wisdom comes for a price though - Rs 200 to Rs 300 per hour in case of Jayashree and something between Rs 60,000 to Rs 80,000 for the entire course for Renu.

However, parents have to play an important role. “Before deciding to send my daughter Twesha to Welhams, I bought her Enid Blyton’s Saint Claire series about life and fun at boarding schools. I also took her to my school, The Scindia School, Gwalior, and showed her how I grew up at a boarding school. Small after dinner talks about studying in a boarding school helped her adjust to the idea of going to a boarding,” says Mitul Dikshit, who is the brain behind Dikshant Global School and Dikshant International School. 

Take the test

l Common Entrance Test for Mayo College-Ajmer, Scindia School-Gwalior requires a child to take a written entrance for English, Hindi and Maths.

l For Doon School -Dehradoon, a student has to take an entrance test of Science, English, General Knowledge and Maths.

l Welham’s School -Dehradoon conducts tests for Life skills, Hindi, Maths and English

l Lawrence School-Sanawar tests the child for Science, English, Hindi and Maths.

Ulka is back in Jhansi Ki Rani

The maha-episode of Jhansi Ki Rani on Zee TV, which will be aired this weekend, will see the return of Ulka Gupta in the show. However, this time, Ulka will play the role of Kali who will help Rani Laxmibai (Kratika Sengar) in her fight against the British.

An inside source reveals, “Ulka is currently touring Luckow and Indore to promote her comeback in the show. Kratika and Ulka have shot for the promos of the mahaepisode but the actual shoot begins on Thursday. Ulka will play Kali, the daughter of a tribal named Bandhu, who will play a pivotal role in helping Rani Laxmibai to fight the British.”

Speaking about her comeback, Ulka says, “It feels nice to be back in Jhansi Ki Rani and it brought back memories of the time when I played Rani Laxmibai. This time, I will be playing Kali and have a different adivasi look.” When asked about co-star Kratika Sengar, Ulka says, “She is a good actress and we became friends while shooting for the promo.”

Kratika, the current Jhansi Ki Rani, says, “It is nice to know Ulka and I am sure the mahaepisode will be an interesting one. You will have to watch out for what twist the story will take.”

We are sure Ulka Gupta's fans will be glad to see the original Jhansi Ki Rani make a comeback this Saturday.

Katrina’s new dark look

'Sheila' has gone from desi to grungy. Bollywood beauty Katrina Kaif sports a dark edgy look on the cover of fashion magazine Vogue's latest issue.The actress has shed her cutesy look for the cover which sees her in an all black ensemble, a Bordelle bodice and a sheer chiffon skirt from Givenchy.

Vogue India's first makeover issue features the 26-year-old on the cover, her look complete with tousled hair and golden accessories.

"Katrina best exemplifies the makeover theme. The idea for the shoot was to bring out the rawness to her sensuality. It's a side of her that has been unseen. At the shoot, she willingly experimented and transformed into a sultry siren. We love this side of her and we love her reinvention," said Anaita Shroff Adajania, Fashion Director of Vogue India.

Marc Hom, a Danish-based photographer famous for his shoots for various campaigns like Gucci and Max Mara, flew down for the photoshoot with Katrina.

— PTI

Bold, bad Imran


DARE TO BARE: Imran Khan 

Imran Khan has shot for a very bold sex scene in Delhi Belly.

Shehnaz Treasurywala plays his girlfriend in the film and during one of their romps, he is shown going down on her.

This is the first time for a Hindi film. Good boy, gone bad (on screen)!


Rajnikanth’s magic

Deepika Padukone is thrilled to bits to be shooting with Rajnikanth in Rana. She says that she never thought it would happen with her. Rana will be shot in London.

Finding Angel(a)

Ranbir Kapoor has been spending plenty of time with Kingfisher model Angela Jonsson. She is half Indian and half Icelandic and gorgeous. She wants to make it big in Bollywood. The two have been meeting up for the past fortnight. Looks like Ranbir is habituated to Kingfisher models as Deepika, Katrina, and Nargis have posed for the famous calendar.

The chase is on

The team of Mission: Impossible 4 (Ghost Protocol) has been shooting near Victoria Terminus Station and also at Marine Drive. They are using fancy cars for some explosive chase sequences. We can hardly wait to see the movie!

No lip-lock!

Prachi Desai, John Abraham and Chitrangda Singh are doing Shrishti Arya's next movie. Prachi refused to kiss him. So a sensuous scene will be shot between John and Chitrangda. John plays a casanova (as usual) in the film.

Man of horror


spooky show: Vikram Bhatt 

Vikram Bhatt, who has made films like 1920 and Shaapit, is back with another kind of cinema called Haunted which will release on 3D.We have mostly seen that Bollywood horror films are remake of Hollywood films. So how original is Haunted? When asked, he said, "My film is an original.

It stars Mahakshay and Tia Bajpai in the lead. After 1920, I have been making only original films, like Shaapit, Life Mein Kabhi Kabhie and Ankahee. Haunted 3D is a compelling story, set in the misty mountains of Dalhousie. It revolves around Glen Manor, a sprawling mansion with a secret past and a haunted present. The protagonist Rehan, played by Mahakshay, visits Glen Manor to complete a transaction. What he does not bargain for is that while he is trying to do so, he discovers a secret and falls in love with it. The secret catapults him to the biggest challenge and question of his life."

Horror films we have seen but watching a horror film in 3D is something unusual. "Haunted 3D is India's first stereoscopic 3D film. I decided to make it in 3D because there is a need to do a horror film in 3D, and stereoscopic because after Chota Chetan, which was the first, we shut shop with Shiva Ka Insaaf. The cost of production increased by 40 per cent, though, because I made my horror film in 3D. I am trying to drive home the subtle message that love can exist without getting anything in return. I am happy being single, too."

The film is special to Vikram because his daughter Krishna will be making her debut in Haunted 3D. For 16- year-old Krishna, acting was never an obvious choice. Vikram was shooting for his 3D movie Haunted in Ooty, he realised that he needed a girl to play piano and his daughter Krishna, who was on the sets assisting him seemed a perfect choice.

Says Vikram, "There's a scene in the movie where the lead actress is attending a piano class. Hence I needed someone who could play piano and that's when Krishna came to my mind."

The teenager is obviously very excited to be directed by her father in her debut film. Haunted will release on May 6. — HRM

Musical sensations
New musical talent has shone in the first quarter of 2011. We take a look at the voices and composers behind hit songs.


tune in: Ram Sampath 

Ram Sampath

Ram Sampath used to compose music for ad films. He is best remembered for suing Rakesh Roshan for using his music from a Sony commercial and using it in Krazzy 4's title track. He has recently composed the background score of Game (portions of which seemed inspired from Inception). The music of his first feature film Luv Ka The End is very peppy and has quite a variety of sounds and singers.

Nishat Khan

The young, new composer is the man behind the catchy music of Sudhir Mishra's Yeh Saali Zindagi. Our favourites our Sararara, Dil darbadar, and the title track. Sudhir Mishra says he is a force to reckon with.

Natalie Di Luccio

This pretty Italian-Canadian has an immensely powerful voice. She has two hugely successful Youtube videos: Tu jaane na and Kahin toh. She has sung for commercials and her first solo song in a film album is Moments in Life from Chalo Dilli. She might work with Pritam and AR Rahman soon, she stays busy with live performances around the country, and might even star in a movie. Her life has become exciting and she has fallen in love with India and the Indian culture.

ALI ROCKS


dream role : Ali Zafar

In Luv ka The End, there's a character of a rock star called Freddie Kapoor who is every boy's dream benchmark and every girl's fantasy. So when it came to casting for this character, YRF wanted someone who was a rocker himself. His sound would have to be a Bryan Adams meets Green Day meets Black Eyed Peas. Ali's new album Jhoom was coming out and was being distributed by Yash Raj Music. So, we decided to reach out to him.

Being a musician, song-writer, singer himself... Ali got so excited with the track F-U-N-Fun-Funaa that he refused to accept money for the film. Instead, he asked for a donation to a charity of his choice. 

Wall art


picture perfect: Frame it right 

If you thought hanging pictures and art was simple, think again. Art, when hung properly can add character and warmth to any room. Here are some basics to keep in mind:

l Plan your layout. Try various combinations on the floor before drilling holes.

l Decide how many frames you want in a room. If its one big painting, then it should be at the center point of the wall.

l As a thumb rule pictures are hung at a height of 60 inches from the floor to the center of the painting. This brings the focal point of the painting to eye level.

l Ideally art should cover 2/3 of the space between the ceiling and the furniture.

l Always use art that complements the theme and mood of your décor.

l Instead of too many large paintings, group a few small ones together and view it as one unit.

l Choose small frames for a narrow wall and big ones for bigger spaces.

l To visually heighten a low ceiling room, use vertical art.

l By placing odd number of pictures in a horizontal line gives the illusion of space.

l If you’re hanging something behind the couch, make sure the frame isn’t wider than the couch. It should be 75 per cent of the furniture width.

l The frame should not be more than 6-8 inches above the furniture.

l Keep consistent space between frames while grouping. Usually three inches for normal size frames.

l Try putting art on shelves, easels or picture rails for innovation.

l Use same or complimentary frames throughout the room.

l Keep pairs and sets together rather than spreading them all over.

l For stairs, it’s best to follow the baseline while hanging art.

l Whenever possible, highlight your art with accent lighting.

(Sukhmani is a Chandigarh-based interior and landscape designer)

TROUBLE SHOOTER
Count your blessings
Simmi Waraich

I am a college going girl. My mother suffers from depression. She often gets very agitated and upset. I have low self-confidence and am unable to focus on my studies. My brother and father are supportive. I have few friends, as I am scared to talk to them because of social anxiety.

— Mahak, Panchkula

We learn a lot of things from our parents and sometimes when the environment at home is not conducive it can cause long-term stress. However, try and remember that people have faced great adversities in life and still they come through.

For instance, today, write down three things that are going well - for example, supportive brother and father, intelligence, sincerity, a house to live in. Next, write the 3 things you enjoyed today- your morning cup of tea, some music, a new flower outside. Identify what you enjoy- make a list and decide what all will you do from that list this week- identify a song that is uplifting and sing that to yourself daily.

When you go out of the house focus on the people around- what they are wearing, the trees around you- little details that we miss every day. If you are feeling stressed at a particular moment, take three deep breaths- feel the breath go in and to all parts of your body, energising you. As you breathe out, feel your body relaxing. Do this daily.

Own up

I got involved with my friend’s boyfriend. He has not told her yet.
Parul, Chandigarh
Well, I think you know what to do. We have the answers within us but often avoid them. Ask him to tell her first. Then face her anger if it comes to that. What is the worst that can happen? Be careful if she has ever threatened to kill herself- inform her parents in that case. At least you will have the satisfaction of owning up. Then take your time and see- do not rush into anything. Never let any guy pressurise you into anything.

(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)

ORIENTAL masala
Shangai, Schezwan, Cantonese, Thai… Zazen at Page 3 in Panchkula is coming up with a series of Oriental food festivals to delight the foodie in you, beginning with the Thai food festival
Jigyasa Kapoor Chimra

Zazen at Page 3 in Panchkula is among the few restaurants in the tricity that serve authentic oriental food, and it is soon coming up with a series of oriental food festivals.

Starting with Thai food festival (on till May 15), the restaurant plans to have Shangai, Schezwan, Cantonese and more such festivals. Although Thai cuisine has still not caught up with the popularity of Chinese cuisine in our part of the country, Chef Swatantra Gautam says, “People usually think Thai cuisine is all about coconut gravy, thin curries and fishy flavours, but that is not the case. With our food festival, we plan to introduce people to the Thai cuisine that is based on four flavours - hot, sour, salty and sweet.”

Though it’s the balance and contrast of these flavours that makes Thai cuisine palatable, the ideal Thai meal is a harmonious blend of spicy, subtle, sweet and sour. And at the food festival you are sure to get the right flavours.

Offering ice teas, Tom Kha soup (traditional galangal flavoured Thai soup with coconut milk), Yum Kha Thod (Thai spicy grilled chicken with red onions and mint on the bed of lettuce), Ice Lettuce Wrap, Coconut Cream Corn,

Stuffed Black Mushrooms, Gai Pad Med Mamuang (stir fried chicken slice with pepper, mushroom and cashewnuts), Lamb Massaman curry (lamb dish of Muslim origin), Egg Plant Chilly Garlic Basil, Sweet N Sour Vegetable Curry With Pineapple, Jasmine Rice And Basil Flavoured Thai Fried Rice…the food festival is nothing but a delight for the foodies. And for the people who thought Thai cuisine is hot ‘n ‘spicy, we say try this and you are sure to change your view. Last but not the least, though Thailand is not a country of dessert eaters the food festival serves iced mango pulp - a refreshing dessert in the scorching heat!

Know thy Thai

l Raw, fresh and cool vegetables as well as herbs are widely used in Thai cuisine. They provide texture to the food.

l The northern part of the country is called Chiang Mai. Red meat of all kinds is more common here, along with various vegetable dishes (both raw and cooked).

l The Northeast is perhaps the poorest region of Thailand. When animals are eaten, no part is wasted. Beef (including tongue, stomach, intestines, heart, and liver) is common, as are chicken and pork. Som Tam Salad, Kai Yang Thakrai are the dishes from this region.

l South (Phuket) is the coastal area on the eastern gulf. This side is known for fishing as well as largescale production of Fish Sauce, one of the most important ingredients in Thai cooking. With its abundance of fresh fish and coconuts, southern cooking tends to be rich in fish and seafood dishes, including coconut milk-based curries like Red and Green Curry.

l Central (Bankok) is the great rice bowls of Asia. From this region come tonnes of fragrant jasmine rice. The cooking here includes rice noodles, usually eaten for lunch or as a snack, the most famous of which is Pad Thai. Protein in this region varies from beef to chicken and fish, and desserts made with banana and mango are popular. Tom Yam Soup and Tom Kha Soup are from this region. 

Active kids are happier adults

Parents, please note- kids who are active grow up to be happier adults, for a new study has found that they are less likely to develop depression or anxiety later in life. An international team, led by Deakin University, has found that being physically active in childhood could protect against depression later in life, a finding based on levels of physical activity and depression in 2,152 Australians.

Researchers found those reporting low physical activity levels as a child were 35 per cent more likely to report depression in adulthood compared to those reporting higher levels of physical activity in childhood. This association was apparent even after taking adult physical activity levels into account. Felice Jacka, lead researcher, said being physically active as a child may be important to adult mental health.

“The results of our study suggest that physical activity may protect against the development of depression and supports the encouragement of regular physical activity in children,” Dr Jacka said. “Childhood is a period of rapid brain development and physical activity in early life may have beneficial effects on the developing brain through its impact on important brain proteins and oxidative stress,” she said. “Involvement in sport is also known to influence the development of important coping and stress management skills in children and adolescents and has been shown to be associated with greater emotional wellbeing in adolescents,” Dr Jacka said. — PTI 

All about faith

Om Shanti Om was a turning point in Arjun Rampal’s decade-old career in Bollywood but the actor, who delivered many flops in the interim, says he never lost faith in his skills as a performer.

Rampal went on to bag a national award for his role of a guitarist in Rock On and will next be seen playing Shah Rukh Khan’s arch-enemy in superhero flick RaOne.

The 38-year-old has various projects lined up but does not believe that success has come a hard way for him. Rampal says each failure has taught him something new.

“I am more confident as an actor now. It’s nice to have made it to this stage. I have a bright future ahead,” says Rampal. The actor, however, is happy that despite collecting flops he never lost hope.

“‘I can act’ that’s all I kept telling myself. I was confident that I could do it. The movies I did were a phase of discovery for me and finally I have found my road. There were people who said that I could not but I don’t live for them,” Rampal added.

On being asked whether the outlook of people has changed after his success, the actor joked, “Actors are now definitely scared to work with me,” and then on a serious note, he said, “People, who have always stood beside me, are proud of me.”

Rampal who will next be seen in RaOne, is confident that people will connect with the superhero flick, which has not been a very popular genre in India.

PTI

astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Disappointed? Don't lose hope whatever the situation. Keep in mind that times change and luck can be just around the corner. Excellent time for starting a correspondence course. Health may need attention. Retired: Focus on private establishment. Tarot message: Lack of confidence or lack of caution can leave you in losses. Lucky colour: Coffee. Magic number: 28

TAURUS: Take criticism constructively and accept praise graciously. Make the most of this low-key day because there is plenty of work tomorrow. Money problems are likely. Women: Day is auspicious for shopping. Tarot message: Don't take hasty decisions as it could lead to waste of time and money. Lucky colour: Burgundy. Magic number: 61

GEMINI: Your chivalrous behaviour and sentiments strike the right note with lovers. Pack up all your worries & woes and have a good time. Influential people can be contacted without too much trouble. You will fare best when working alone. Tarot message: Don't waste an opportunity by being rash or impulsive.Lucky colour: Golden brown.Magic number: 33

CANCER: Browse newspapers and on-line websites for that dream job because you may just find what you have been hoping for. Arguments at home are likely. Career women will be in the limelight. Be tactful. Businessmen: New ideas should be examined. Tarot message: Learn from the past and desist from repeating mistakes. Lucky colour: Baize.Magic number: 28

LEO: Arrange an outing with your partner. Refuse any new assignments. Loved ones are unlikely to make special demands. Studies could help you gain a promotion. You will only get what you pay for. An Arian friend is supportive.Tarot message: Be articulate to prevent people from reaching their own conclusions.Lucky colour: Peach.Magic number: 65

VIRGO: Show your love through action rather than promises. Be careful while signing agreements. Family may require assistance. Not a day for new relationships. The day will end on an optimistic note. Mothers to be: A visit to gynaecologist advised. Tarot message: Accomplish those tasks, which normally take up a lot of time. Lucky colour: Yellow.Magic number: 27 

LIBRA: If something is already on your calendar, postpone it for a later date. Time to impress your boss. Employment activities are lucrative. Women: Infants can be a source of worry. Consider your options with great care. No speculations please. Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health. Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 39

SCORPIO: Decisions may involve a journey overseas. Older people: Take care of your health. Do not lend cash to anyone. Cine / theatre artists: You will have little difficulty gaining the right sort of publicity. Take care of your documents.Tarot message: Make compromises outside and come to terms within yourself.Lucky colour: Deep red.Magic number: 25

SAGITTARIUS: Women: You will have the money to shop to your heart's extent. Think about costs next time you spend on luxury items. Plan a profitable business trip. Those interested in modelling will get a suitable break. Meditate. Tarot message: Lack of confidence or lack of caution can leave you in losses.Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 44

CAPRICORN: Household expenses seem to be pretty well covered now. But pleasurable indulgence might be eating into domestic expenses. Ignore unpleasant gossip. Do not take impulsive decisions. Youngsters will lead a hectic social life. If you are 50 plus: Do not ignore any ailment. Tarot message: Take timely action. Lucky colour: Black.Magic number: 55

AQUARIUS: Investments in property may be possible. A detailed accounting process lets you know what you can afford. Shopkeepers may encounter an unruly customer. Love life is erratic. Politicians: You may figure in the news. You may neglect your health due to busy schedule. Tarot message: Be positive and think before taking action. Lucky colour: Purple.Magic number: 64

PISCES: Make your day enjoyable and forget about the work. Some of you may have lost interest in career ambitions. Students interested in competitive sports may be selected for their school team. Conclude a major assignment after 2.00 p.m. Tarot message: Do not swing away from the course you have charted. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 46

chatter box
Dutiful sons-in-law of the small screen
An ideal son-in-law brings happiness not only to the wife but also to the respective families. They count on him to strengthen relationships within the family structure. Weddings tend to be significant not only for brides, but also for sons-in-law as they too have to learn to become a part of their in-laws, respect their feelings and participate not just in joyful occasions but in troubled times too. We take a look at some of the ideal and dutiful son-in-laws on the small screen today.

Jay Soni (Ishaan)
Jay Soni

Ishaan of Sasural Genda Phool is a simple and an introvert young boy in his family. His image projection is the exact opposite of his extrovert wife Suhana. The serial focuses on how the two characters get along with each other despite their differences. Ishaan's devotion to Suhana has been the backbone of their relationship and has won the trust of Suhana's dad. Ishaan's portrayal is that of an understanding and caring husband.

Nandish Sandhu (Veer)
Nandish Sandhu

Veer of Uttran has repeatedly stood the test of time to prove himself as an ideal son-in-law. Married to Ichchha, daughter of a maid, he has always stood by his mother-in-law Damini in good and bad times. He extends support to her not as a son-in-law but as a son.

Veer shows immense love and respect for both Ichchha and her mother. He tries to go an extra mile to see a smile on Ammo's face. 

Arhaan Behl (Krishna)
Arhaan Behl

Krishna of Mann Ki Aawaz Pratigya is a boy who doesn't understand the meaning of love but desires to win over the girl he has a liking for. During his courtship and marriage to Pratiyga he ensures that his in-laws do not bear the brunt of his ire or his family's. Krishna has been accused for standing up for his in-laws several times. After a troubled relationship, today he has earned the respect of his family. 

Karan Mehra (Naitik)
Karan Mehra
Karan Mehra

Naitik of Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai is an educated young man and belongs to a rich Marwari family.

He is married to Akshara and maintains good relations with his in-laws.

He is considerate towards Akshara and her family's feelings. His extrovert nature has helped him build a strong foundation with his in-laws.

Kinshuk Mahajan (Viren)
Kinshuk Mahajan

Viren Sood of Chand Chuppa Badal Mein married Nivideta to take revenge and broke the trust of her dad and her other family members.

A sudden change brought him close to Nivideta but wading through the tough times, Viren won them over.

Now, Viren is the ideal son-in-law and a darling of Nivideta's family. 

Sushant Singh Rajput (Manav)
Sushant Singh Rajput
Sushant Singh Rajput 

Manav of Pavitra Rishta is a garage owner who belongs to a middle-class family. He has no big dreams in life and struggles hard to take care of his family.

After facing hardships, Manav and Archana finally are happy in their married life. They both love each other and their in-laws equally.

Manav is shown to rely on Archana's mom for guidance and looks up to her in times of need. Though belonging to a middle-class family, he helps his father-in-law financially. He is a source of moral support to Archana's family.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is May 5...

Your ruling planet Mercury instils a strong interest in the psychic and occult subjects to make you clairvoyant. In 2011, if you follow the natural development of your higher psychic faculties with studies of parapsychology, astrology, palmistry and mystical traditions, you will become more and more attuned. Nip complaints in the bud. Sprinkle your life with some fun and small surprises. Selective spending to enhance comfort is likely to happen. Students will do remarkably well and their hard work will get them distinctive grades in their exams. Most of you will opt for higher education and will take to some specialised field of work. Those studying in junior classes will do very well and feel enthused to get into the merit lists in their examinations. Stormy times are likely at the workplace. No promises guaranteed by the stars for new projects. It would be more convenient to postpone them and avoid any harm. This year luck and audacity will make financial initiatives successful for most of you born in the seventies and eighties. You are a born communicator and your wit and light-heartedness will help others see joy in any situation.

Christine Fishel (May 5, 1981) is an American actor and television personality best known for her role as Topanga Lawrence in the 1990s TV sitcom Boy Meets World and as the host of Style Network's The Dish.

She also appeared in National Lampoon's Dorm Daze and its sequel and was a spokesperson for NutriSystem. She also became a special correspondent for The Tyra Banks Show. She hosted The Dish for the Style Network, which satirised pop culture. 

beat it

Genre: Hip Hop

Song of the day- Give me Everything tonight

Artist — Pitbull ft Ne-yo, Afrojack & Nayer

Why — This track is currently on my playlist. It has some infectious beats and rhythm. Like most of the hip-hop tracks. Moreover, the lyrics and music blend well into each other.

(As told to Manpriya Khurana)





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