Luv ka punch
The director of the film Pyaar Ka Punchnama, Luv Ranjan, in Chandigarh on a promotional tour, has no love lost for the censor board
Ashima Sehajpal

Statutory warning: the film is injurious to relationships; don’t watch it with your partner. It’s a ‘generous’ sum up of all the atrocities that women have inflicted on men over a period of time. It’s about their leisure time zones; their obsessive compulsive disorder to ask their partner before dressing up for an occasion; their incessant questions just about everything. Sorry ladies!

direct talk: Luv RanjanThe movie is gender-biased and the director, Luv Ranjan, stands by his claim. Pyaar Ka Punchnama is like a post-mortem report of why relationships end, to be precise — it blames women for all the misfortunes.

“The fact that men are loving the film proves the point. I am not the first one to say it, but history is witness to all the major wars that were fought because of women,” Luv, who was in Chandigarh on Wednesday with the entire cast for the promotion of the film, continues the verbal ‘women bashing’. The film is quite a contrast to the trend of men-bashing in Bollywood.

“Three bad boys being taught a lesson by their wives is such an old concept. Nobody has even tried to think from the men’s point of view. The movie is my sincere effort to highlight the same,” quips Luv.

Besides it is an unusual subject, the film has also created news for the controversy over its kutta song. The censor board asked the director to remove the word and even to beep certain others. However, Luv is not ready to take anything with love, “The way our censor board functions, I am sure, even Ramayana and Mahabharata wouldn’t have got the approval.” More ‘love flows’ in, “But they can pass a song like DK Bose, DK Bose, which when repeated is a Hindi expletive because it has Aamir Khan’s banner. The ‘impartial’ board might be looking for some pleasantries, which I didn’t oblige with.”

So, did he take up the argument with the board seriously? “I did. But now I won’t and if I find anybody from the board I will beat him like a dog.” And an immediate apology follows as he realises he went a little overboard, “My apologies to the dogs. PETA members please don’t take an offence.”

If he is to be believed, it’s not just PETA members he is scared of, but also women activists. “I was expecting broken window panes but guess they took it sportingly.” He wishes that the Indian audience accepts his films as they accept the Woody Allen satires. Luv’s anti-women subject also raises queries if the story has come from personal experience.

“A three-year sour relationship has resulted in the movie.” But more than that, he adds, the changing dynamics of the Indian society is also the reason behind the film. “It’s not the issues of cast and religion that bother people anymore. While getting in a relationship, factors that come into play today are ex-boyfriends and girlfriends, would a girl shift her base and job for marriage or would she stay with the in-laws.”

He certainly picked up the first case. The film’s target audience is, of course, youngsters but he stresses that even a fifty-year-old man will like the film. “He has been tortured at some point of time too. To him, the film would be an ode to the adjustments he has made in life.” To promote the serious cause, the film’s crew will hold a rally in the city called, The Launda Rally. Clearly, a journey from men-bashing to men having a bash!

ashima@tribunemail.com 

SINGING glory
Patiala girl Asmita comes out with a solo album
Mona

You’re crazy girl/ Tauba nazara tera/ Shining like a pearl/ Tauba ishara tera/Just one in the world/ Saara zamana hai tera...lilt singers Asmita Garg, Prekher and Vaibhav...a pleasant, refreshing number that makes us forget the blazing sun outside and the accompanying dreariness of life!

In Chandigarh to launch their first album Ringa Ringa…The Crazy Girl at the Press Club-27, Patiala girl Asmita and upcoming music director duo Prekhar and Vaibhav, who have also lent voice to the album, create a dreamy ambience with their music. And it’s hard to imagine that the singer is just 14 years old.

A class eighth student, Asmita gives more time to riyaz than homework. And rightly so, as she has her aim clear — to be a successful singer. Every two months, this singer makes a trip to the city of dreams, Mumbai, to record songs for different directors and further hone her skills, with her parents in tow.

Prekher and Vaibhav, now five years in Mumbai, categorise their music as experimental. “This album is more of pop-Bollywood kinds,” says Vaibhav. Ringa Ringa has seven numbers and is already rising in the charts at Mumbai FM. A video next, a Punjabi album in place, Asmita is inching her way towards success.

Surindra Singh, ace violinist from Bollywood who flew in to bless the singer, is all praise for Asmita. “Ringa Ringa team Asmita, Prekher, Vaibhav and lyricist Alok Choudhary are promising. I wish them the very best,” says Surindra, who after a successful innings as violinist is looking forward to making music for movies.

mona@tribunemail.com 

FIRE in the belly
With reality television in the forefront, we find one person who introduces us to the flip side of these TRP-hogging shows
Vasudha Gupta

on record: Jitender Singh The house did not afford a very worthwhile look. An old television set occupied the computer table and the crockery table was gathering dust. From the façade, the setting could not build a success story.

Jitender Singh’s credentials include two certificates kept safely under the bed. One of Sony channel’s Entertainment Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega and the other a coveted Guinness World Records, Abh India Torega, won on March 26, 2011. Guinness has honoured Jitender for blowing fire flames through his mouth 76 times without refueling!

He started learning the dangerous game of fire-blowing as a 15-year-old. Talking about his relation with fire, he says, “I was always fascinated by a friend who would blow fire from his mouth. I always wanted to learn fire-blowing and got the opportunity to perform one day. Since then, there has been no looking back.”

Breaking the sudden silence, his mother, Ranjit Kaur tells about the hardships the family is facing. “I had an elder son. We lost him one year ago,” she breaks down. “His wife got married again and the children are with us. With no work, it’s impossible to feed the family,” she says between her tears.

Hoping to find the ‘I-was -so-lucky-story’, we were shocked to learn that Jitender was anything but happy about his achievement. “Earlier, at least I would get some work at shows and weddings. Now, people recognise me as a star and feel that I probably charge too much. Penniless, I am now left in a position to only drive an auto at night,” he says.

Apart from some recognition from the local administration, Jitender had also hoped for a break in Punjabi films. “When people like us rise from the ground, no one recognises our capabilities. We are mostly shunned away,” the mother says.

Oozing with negativity for the show, Jintender says, “It would have been better had I not signed up for the show. I have lost all my work and as I have just completed my basic education, I don’t think I will be able to get a job.”

With most other state governments assisting winners, Jitender feels that life has played a cruel joke on him. “I know the participants have support from the government, but here no one even knows of my capabilities as a record-holder,” he says.

His talk his broken by the influx of children. Catching hold of one he says, “I just hope I have some support from the government before things become worse for us.”

vasudha@tribunemail.com

chatter box
Salman in Gokuldham society

Members of Gokuldham society from Tarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah on SAB TV will have special guest from Ready to meet them in the upcoming episodes. It is none other than superstar Salman Khan who will appear in the show to promote his movie.

A source reveals, “Tappu and his friends are currently enjoying their summer vacations. They will hit a car while cycling on the road after which they will be scared and immediately rush back home but the car follows them to Gokuldham Society. Everyone is terrified when huge body guards emerge from the sleek black car but they all start clapping and hooting when in the end Salman Khan gets off the vehicle. “

The source adds, “Salman will insist on meeting Jethalal and Daya. Daya will then welcome Salman with her now famous aarti. She will dance all over the place with her pooja ki thali scaring Salman, who will be afraid that she may drop burning diya. However Salman being a true sport will accompany her and delight the society members with his impromptu performance.”

Apparently Salman will also learn some Gujarati words from Daya and will even dedicate a song to her. Not just that he will also teach Tappu sena some dance moves from the super hit song Dhinka Chika and will gift the entire cast music CD’s of the film.

The source reveals, “Salman couldn’t stop expressing his love for the show during the shoot. Sallu bhai is a big fan of the show and watches it whenever he finds the time. It came in as a surprise when Salman said he adores the unique dialogue delivery skills of Daya. Daya immediately started rattling a few dialogues. What then followed was fun and non-stop dose of entertainment.”

Salman says, “I was very pleased to be a part of this show. I have worked with Dilip Joshi since my Maine Pyaar Kiya days and it was great meeting him here again. I specially came to meet Daya bhabhi and I was ready for all the fun on the sets.”

Viewers of Tarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah can catch Salman Khan in their favourite show on June 1 and 2. 

Suhana’s got mail

Shop stop: Ragini <p>KhannaRagini Khanna, who plays Suhana in Sasural Genda Phool, used to be a shopaholic in the show but after taking a vow to decide and control her habit, she has stuck to no shopping at all. But knowing her addiction to shopping, her fans from across the nation have been sending her numerous gifts after finding out her decision to quit splurging on shopping!! Ragini is surely one lucky lady and now feels that quitting her habit has proved to be beneficial.

She is so real

Reality check: Kashmera Shah Kashmera Shah can’t get enough of reality shows. She has already participated in a number of reality shows and now is in the mood for more. She was heard saying that being in reality shows means she can be herself and not be playing a part. She enjoys the adulation from people who love her for her real persona.

Siddhant’s love for stage

Siddhant Karnick Siddhant Karnick who has become a household name since Pyaar Kii Yeh Ek Kahaani has now decided to return to theatre, which he had been ignoring due to his hectic shooting schedules. However this is not just the usual theatre, Siddhant is part of a group called Improv Comedy Mumbai which has shows that are truly different. Siddhant explains Improv Comedy stands for improvisational comedy. There are six performers in front of a live audience and they create an impromptu scene without discussing it with the other actors. The audience gives the actors challenges and the actors have to tactfully include whatever the audience decides, into the scene. As the show goes on the challenges keep getting tougher and the actors have to make sense of what is happening and also make sure it is entertaining.”

“Improv Comedy is new to India. It was introduced by Adam Dow, an improvisational teacher from Seattle and a couple of actors. We also have a musician in our group which makes the performances even more interesting. I joined the group last October but have not been able to perform regularly due to my TV shows,” adds Siddhant.

Siddhant too believes that every actor should try theatre as it helps to improve ones performance. The actor says “I started off with theatre and believe it is the stepping stone for an actor. It requires a lot of commitment and hard work.” Now you know from where the actor gets those impromptu witty one liners that his co-stars rave about and are a hit with the audience too. It is all thanks to his theatre experience with Improv Comedy Mumbai.

Hrithik finds another fan

Akshay Kumar surprised many when he praised Hrithik Roshan after he saw the promo of Hrithik’s ultimate dance reality show, Just Dance on Star Plus. Akshay was reportedly quoted saying, “Hrithik Roshan is a one of a kind. His acting skills are great and dancing ability superb. He must know that he makes all us heroes envious by his moves.” Akshay who has never worked with Hrithik praises his dance moves to the sky, which is a novelty for a star in Bollywood.

Vishal’s new avatar

Vishal Karwal, whose show Rishton Se Badi Pratha on Colors will be ending this week, has already bagged a new project. He will be playing Lord Krishna in the mythological show, warikadheesh on Imagine TV. Sources reveal that the show featuring Vishal will focus on Lord Krishna's love life with Rukmini and many untouched chapters in his life. After playing roles in Bhagyavidhata and Pratha, this good looking actor will now woo gopis on screen. 

Bollywood Gossip
Action packed

Kareena Kapoor will be seen doing action scenes in Ra.One and Agent Vinod and Salman Khan’s Bodyguard will obviously have action scenes. She has different roles in the big budget movies. She is not fond of action scenes but she listens to her directors.

Title revealed

The working title of Reema Kagti's film starring Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor and Rani Mukerji is The Act of Murder.

What’s common between Salman and Shah Rukh?

Both of them don't talk to each other. But apart from the Khan title there is something else which is common between the two and that is the lack of punctuality. Whether it’s a Salman Khan event or an SRK event, both of them arrive at least two hours late. Last week, both the Khans had events on separate days and they made the media wait for three hours each.

All izz well

As the rumours of all not being well between Arbaaz Khan and Malaika Arora Khan were doing the rounds, Arbaaz has decided to clarify. He says, “I don't understand where the news comes from. Everything is well between my wife and me. This is just a ridiculous rumour. We are like any other healthy couple and people should just be concerned about what we do professionally and not interfere in our personal lives."

London dreams

Kamal Haasan and Sonakshi Sinha will start shooting for their upcoming movie in the UK. Both the stars are expected to wrap up a major portion of their film in London. The film is still untitled. Sonakshi plays Kamal Haasan's wife in this film directed by Selvaraghavan.

Double standards

Sonakshi Sinha Sonakshi Sinha says she wants to keep her personal affairs and equations with other actresses private. However, it was she who went around saying that Katrina Kaif had not replied to her message. Also, she says she will “not expose.” That term is so 1990s! She may not bare her bosom, but she is seen wearing form-fitting backless dresses that end way above her knees. She says she will not do intimate scenes because she comes from “a respectable family.” Does this mean that the actresses who wear bikinis and do intimate scenes do not have respectable families? Which era is she living in!

Shraddha KapoorMake-up tips

Shraddha Kapoor is lively and fun-loving. She loves using colourful make-up and that is completely in-sync with her personality. She says you can wear a black dress and jazz it up with electric-coloured eyeliners such as pop green, orange, purple, blue, etc. Have fun while you are young!

Some PR exercise!

Mallika SherawatMallika Sherawat’s PR machinery is working overtime. You know how people want to be clicked with their favourite celebrities and do so with their phone cameras at premiers, award shows and public events and post them on their social networking pages? That is exactly what she is doing with Hollywood celebrities such as Sean Penn, Gwen Stefani, Johnny Depp, etc. She feels the need to show-off! We doubt if they will remember her name when they meet her again.

Item Boy

Ranbir Kapoor We had heard about the strained relationship between Salman Khan and Ranbir Kapoor after Ranbir started dating Katrina Kaif but now Ranbir has done a an item number in Chillar Party a movie for children. Interestingly this movie has been produced by Salman Khan. Now, as Ranbir and Katrina are no longer together, Ranbir and Salman can be friends once again!

Shah Rukh uncut

Shah Rukh Bollywood's King Khan lives life king-size but he is a simple and grounded man at heart. He gives immense importance to spending time with his family and the simple joys of life.

Family

Family is the most important thing for me. Wherever I am, I make sure that I am talking to them at least twice a day, especially to my children so that they don’t miss me. I ask them what they did, what they learnt in school. When I am at home I help them with their homework. Every year we go on a holiday. Family definitely comes first for me.

Wife or children?

I could seriously easily say my wife but seriously today I miss my children the most. My wife is grown up and she can take care of herself though I miss her too. If I am shooting and away from home I miss my children immensely, like any other parent.

Best gift

When Gauri and I were dating, I would surprise her with small gifts as I was not rich. Once, I heard her talking about a hair straightener and it was not available anywhere. I went to all the markets of Delhi and finally got one. She was so happy to see it. I believe that is the best gift I have ever given her.

Childhood days

My childhood was a simple one. I was in an all-boys school so I missed all the fun boys usually have in a co-ed school. I was an average student but being in a boys' school, sports were the fun part. In our recess time, we used to play and use only two minutes to finish our lunch. I also had my share of crushes. I was in love with Mumtaz and Saira Banu. Like the latter in the Bhai Batur number from Padosan. I would get into a bathtub and perform that song. I loved Mumtazji in Chakke pe Chakka from the film Brahmachari.

Life

I am very happy as where I am and what I am. All the credit goes to my parents. My day starts with a small prayer and if I make someone laugh I really feel happy. I try to be humble and gentle with people I meet. 

John not pleased with Bips

John Abraham is shocked that his ex-girlfriend Bipasha Basu is going around the town declaring her single status. Apparently, both of them had decided that they would keep quiet about their split and he is not pleased that she is talking about it.

Tigress no more

Good parenting: Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie Hollywood superstar Angelina Jolie says that she owes her present "softer" personality to her children.

The 35-year-old actress, who raises six children with partner Brad Pitt, said that before becoming a mother she struggled to communicate love and warmth.

The screen beauty, who lends her voice as the Tigress in the upcoming animated film Kung Fu Panda 2, said that the character was a lot like her.

"I like her, I have her weakness too. She's tough but sometimes she doesn't know how to be soft, and my kids have certainly helped with that. To get me a little softer, because I have a little bit of a hard shell sometimes," said Jolie. The Lara Croft star enjoyed working on the film as she could bring her brood to the set.

"It's the cushiest job in the world. You can bring your kids, you can go in your pyjamas, (director) Jennifer Yuh's really good about whatever you want to order for lunch, so you end up ordering pizza with your kids, snacking, it's great," added Jolie.—PTI 

Bags of charity

Hollywood celebrities Lindsay Lohan, Taylor Swift and Jessica Simpson have donated their carry-on flight bags for charity. They are among 50 people who have donated signed luggage - including briefcases, carry-on cases, party purses and guitar cases - to an auction by JetBlue Airways, which will donate 100 per cent of the proceeds to their charity partner - DoSomething.org.

"Celebrity baggage is some of the most intriguing, highly-coveted and photographed accessories to ever fly in and out of LAX and across our network. Thanks to the generosity of these celebrities, we are excited to give everyone the opportunity to take home a piece of that magic while supporting a great cause," said Icema Gibbs, spokesperson for the JetBlue.

The organisation encourages young people to create their own vision for making a difference in their community and provides them with the resources. —IANS

Knot now!
Hollywood star Johnny Depp has said that he has no plans to get married in the near future.

The 47-year-old actor said that his greatest achievement has been meeting his partner Vanessa Paradis, but added that he has no plans to tie the knot with her.

"It doesn't seem necessary for us. Others may want to go down that road but we don't. If you call meeting Vanessa an 'achievement,' it was certainly that. It came at the right time. We were both ready for children, and she's given me Lily Rose, who is now 11 years old, and Jack, who's 9. "I saw Vanessa across a room - and I first saw only her back! But I immediately thought, 'That's the woman for me.' —PTI

No going Gaga over love

Pop superstar Lady Gaga has revealed that she would never go out looking for love because she thinks it comes by itself unexpectedly. But the Judas singer, who recently split from boyfriend Luc Carl, doesn't think being romantically involved with someone is the key to happiness. "I would say don't go looking for love, let love find you. That's when it will happen," she said. 

"But you definitely don't need a man to be happy, and that's an important thing to remember," she said. Gaga also admitted she believes people can fall in love multiple times throughout their life, and thinks everyone has a soulmate. "I believe you can fall in love over and over again. I do believe in soul mates. And that's because I'm a bit of an old romantic at heart or a bad romantic," she added. —ANI 

Bald & not beautiful!
With baldness becoming the middle name for the youth today, we explore various options available around Chandigarh to ensure you retain your mane
Vasudha Gupta

So, you recently added the 30th candle to your birthday cake? Have a great career? Your personal life is settled? Feel healthy? Look good? Really? Look again…maybe you are one of those men suffering from the ‘dreaded’ receding hairline syndrome -baldness. If yes, the information below could prove useful for you.

According to a latest research conducted in London, doctors claim to have an instant cure for baldness. In this new 30-minute treatment, male pattern baldness can be halted by injecting a cocktail of platelet-rich plasma taken from blood and Acell, a powder extracted from pig bladder!

Though it is now a million-dollar industry, experts are attempting to avoid making it a money-making business. Owner of a specialised hair transplant centre, Darling Buds, Dr Bhatti shares his views on ‘dubious’ options and stands against all kinds of treatments: “The only scientifically proven procedures are hair transplants, hair wigs and hair weaving techniques. The rest, though easily available and more expensive, are not reliable techniques. I have two cases of hair transplant cases in a day and 95% of my clients are males,” he informs.

Sometimes, more than the person feeling conscious about it, peer pressure pushes them to take steps to cure the problem. A software engineer based out of Delhi, who prefers anonymity, says, “I never thought that balding was a big deal. But those around me ensured that it was a big deal. Now, that the cure is available at an affordable cost, I decided to go in for hair transplants.”

Not only medically, the problem has a host of cosmetic options. Partha Mitra, owner of Hair Shoppe, speaks about how they tackle the problem of receding hair. “We provide more natural alternatives than artificial hair. We put a layer of external filament of hair and attach it to the bald area. It does not grow and requires regular maintenance,’ he smiles.

Another big name in curing baldness is the Richfeel Tricology Centre. The centre specialises on slowing down hair loss and maintenance therapy. “We take roots of the hair sample and send them across to our laboratory in Mumbai for analysis. The analysis gives a clear-cut description as to what could be the possible cause of hair loss,” says Dr Sonia Gautam. Even though the cost of the treatment is a little heavy on the pocket, it still has several takers. “Nothing matters to those who really want to ensure that they have their mane back,” she adds. As her justification as to why the problem was more among men, she says, “Males carry hormones that prevent hair growth. This tends to be one of the prime factors why men suffer from hair loss.”

No only haircare experts, but also hair stylists know how to take care of your balding patches. “Mostly, if you see someone who is facing the problem, they try to take “donor hair” and cover it up. Donor hair is behind the ear and above the nape of the neck,” says Imtiaz Ali, owner Ali’s Midaas.

The salon tries to give hair cuts according to the natural look of the person. In some extreme conditions, branded products are used to provide nourishment to the hair and slow down the balding process. “I won’t say it’s a cure but yes, it retards hair fall,” he says.

Trendsetter
Simply elegant

Beauty today is not just skin deep, it's found in the attitude and confidence of an individual. Armaan Mann, an engineering student from University Institute of Engineering & Technology, has oodles of both.

Your sense of style is…

Minimalistic and elegant. I believe in buying timeless pieces and do not follow trends blindly.

Latest addition in your wardrobe...

My Guess prism watch, which I adore and wear with everything.

Brand freak or street junkie?

I like mixing and matching...I am not so brand conscious.

Choose a look- sporty, glamorous or chic

Chic

Your style icon would be…

Alexa Chung.

So who's the worst dressed celebrity around?

Amrita Rao and Vidya balan.

One fashion trend you just don't understand…

Wedge heeled shoes ....they should be banned.

Your take on accessories

Accessorise well to glamorise your outfit...but don't overdo it

One thing that boosts your confidence

A confident smile and the ability to figure out what gels well with my personality and getting the basics right.

(As told to Vasudha Gupta)

Inside the criminal mind

Actress Shefali Shah, who went to the extent of meeting an under-trial prisoner in Thane Jail to give authenticity to her role in the forthcoming film Kucch Luv Jaisaa, discovered that there is a human within every criminal and one can easily connect with that side of their personality.

"It was daunting and intimidating, but finally it was like two strangers meeting and communicating at a very human level. It was just like meeting another person in a mall or airport lounge. We are from different ideologies, but we were sharing on topics we could talk about," said Shefali.

From being a TV actress to character artist in films to a full-fledged actress, Shefali has come a long way. In Barnali Ray Shukla's directorial debut Kucch Luv Jaisaa, her character bumps into a criminal (Rahul Bose) on the run and they end up spending a whole day together.

The 36-year-old actor wanted to live that situation in real life. "I have lived a protected life. So I wanted to break out of my comfort zone and know someone who is trying to intimidate me. I wanted to put myself in a situation which could be dicey. It started with that thought," said Shefali whose performances in Satya and Waqt: The race against time had been highly appreciated. This her second film with Rahul after Bengali director Aparna Sen's 15 Park Avenue.

"It was great working with Rahul. He complements me. I can't imagine anyone else in Rahul's role," said Shefali.  — IANS 

GET PHYSICAL
anil juneja
Back to basics

This yoga pose is recommended for spiritual reasons and general improvement of internal organ functions. The Supta Vajra asana pose offers a good stretch of the upper body and massages the abdominal organs to reduce constipation. It also alleviate the disorders of the abdominal organs, the liver, the kidney, the spleen and strengthens the muscles of the legs, thighs, pelvis and abdomen.

Supta Vajrasana is also useful to those who suffer from asthma or other breathing disorders. This asana helps to remove certain defects of the spine. As the spine is arched backwards in this asana, it removes a hunch, if any. The spine becomes flexible and elastic. This asana is very good for women as it helps in minimising menstrual pains. Supta-Vajrasana is further development of Vajrasana so first we will learn Vajrasana.

For Vajrasana go down on your knees with legs together and toes pointing out behind you, and sit back on your heels. Your big toes should touch with heels apart, and the spine should be straight. It is important to keep the spine, the neck and the head, upright in one straight line. After a little practice, this asana can be maintained for a long time. In the daily routine it should be kept for five minutes. With more practice it can be kept for three hours.

Now, for Supta Vajrasana start from Vajrasana. Slowly take the help of right elbow, then left elbow and place them on the ground towards backside. Slowly straighten you hands and completely lie on your back. Shoulders should rest on the ground. Beginners may keep their hands on their thighs. Knees should remain together. Beginners may keep their knees apart if they find it difficult to keep them together. After practicing this position well, make the shape of scissors with both hands bring them under the shoulders. Right hand will remain under left shoulder and left under the right, head in the middle of them. While returning to the original position, first take out your hands and place it by the side of your body. Now, with the help of elbows sit as in the first position. Those feeling trouble while practicing even Vajrasana, should not resort to the practice of this asana.

(Juneja is a Chandigarh-based yoga expert)

Master Chef
Thoda sa Thai ho jaaye?
Kandla Nijhowne

Thai food! A medley of lemon grass, basil, galangal, tamarind, kaffir lime and chillies with lemon juice and garlic overtones! Perfect, light and aromatic food befitting the summer heat! Harmony and balance between the various flavours is the guiding principle behind each Thai dish. There is a great deal of emphasis on the freshness of every ingredient and being light, you can eat a belly-full without acquiring a pot belly!

Ingredients

1 pack rice noodles

1 small onion sliced

3 cloves garlic, minced

4 kaffir lime leaves

Few small stalks of lemon grass

1 fresh red chili, minced

a few mushrooms, sliced

1 cup carrot (thin slivers)

handful of snowpeas

handful of beansprouts

˝ cup tofu, diced

2 spring onions, cut into 2 inch stalks

3 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped

4 tbs chopped peanuts

3 tbs soy sauce

2 tbsp lemon juice

1 tbsp tomato paste

pinch of sugar

2-3 tbsp oil

Method

Cook noodles as per packet instructions. A few drops of oil in the boiling water will prevent them from sticking together into a clump mess. Drain. Brown the tofu pieces in a spoonful of hot oil. Place aside on a kitchen towel. Add more oil to the pan and saute the onion, adding kaffir leaves, lemon grass, garlic and mushroom a few minutes later. Add the carrots and snow peas and toss lightly. Add soy sauce, tomato paste and seasoning followed by the bean sprouts, tofu and noodles. Squeeze in some lemon juice and stir fry to heat through. Sprinkle in the peanuts and serve with additional chilli sauce.

(Nijhowne is a Chandigarh-based culinary expert)

Why women love moody men

A new University of British Columbia study has concluded that women find happy guys significantly less sexually attractive than swaggering or brooding men. The study- that helps to explain the enduring allure of "bad boys" and other iconic gender types - found dramatic gender differences in how men and women rank the sexual attractiveness of non-verbal expressions of commonly displayed emotions, including happiness, pride, and shame.

The study is also the first to investigate the attractiveness of displays of pride and shame.

"While showing a happy face is considered essential to friendly social interactions, including those involving sexual attraction - few studies have actually examined whether a smile is, in fact, attractive," said Jessica Tracy of UBC's Department of Psychology.

"This study finds that men and women respond very differently to displays of emotion, including smiles," added Tracy.

The study found that women were least attracted to smiling, happy men, preferring those who looked proud and powerful or moody and ashamed. In contrast, male participants were most sexually attracted to women who looked happy, and least attracted to women who appeared proud and confident. — ANI

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is May 26...

This number 26 is governed by the planet Saturn. In this year, you may experience a windfall. You will feel more concerned about the welfare of your home and family in June-July. Try to communicate your feelings to your loved ones. Do not stop experimenting with new ideas, or you will stop growing. Prospect for a growth spurt. Do not believe in everything you hear. Your tried-and-tested beliefs may provide the answers you need. If in business, partnership issues can be dealt effectively and with minimum stress in September. Put your special someone first on your list of priorities during your free time now. Promote goodwill. Love and romance are in the air and you just might possibly fall in love. Partnership interests are favoured in 2011-12. December can be a favourable period for business or partnership negotiation. Your personal relationships will achieve an important level of communication in January.

Manorama (May 26,1943 -Mannarkudi, Tamil Nadu) is a veteran Tamil actress who has acted in more than 1,500 films, 1,000 stage performances, and a few television serials shares this great day with you. She has the distinction of having acted with five chief ministers of South India. She was the female lead in the stage plays written, directed and acted by C N Annadurai, former chief minister of Tamil Nadu. She has acted in films with Dr M G Ramachandran and Jayalalitha Jayaram. 

Astro Turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Those around you could lose you with their abstract ideas about important issues. Keep your celebrations moderate. Bankers will give you the benefit of their advice. Love life is controversial. Do not put up with a headache or neck-pain; visit a doctor. Tarot Message: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far. Lucky Colour: White. Magic Number: 63

TAURUS: Strange under currents in the home can give rise to all sorts of drama. Students should park your vehicles carefully and obey traffic rules. Contractors will gain new contracts. Expect excellent news concerning finance after 6.00 p.m. Tarot Message: Handle your projects secretly and carefully. Lucky Colour: Pink. Magic Number: 27

GEMINI: A neighbour has some gossip to divulge to you. Make sure you really want to hear secrets or rumours about someone. Health will give no worry to you. Property matters are highlighted. Personal relationship heats up. Avoid gambling or travel. Tarot Message: Watch your action at work and polish your public relation skills. Lucky Colour: Sandy Brown

Magic Number: 57

CANCER: You could wake up with a headache. Do not fear bad luck. Steer well clear of business. Working women should take care of their child’s health. A re-union or party will be fun. If you get the chance to go to the theatre or see movie, you would really enjoy the evening. Tarot Message: Don’t let opposition faze you. Lucky Colour: Lime Green. Magic Number: 31

LEO: Be true to your ideals and don’t sell yourself short for money or glamour. A secret arrangement comes to light. A good day for speculation. The search for your soul mate gathers impetus. You may have an allergy to some foods or need vitamin and mineral supplements. Tarot Message: Allow a sick situation blow over before starting new. Lucky Colour: Olive. Magic Number: 58

VIRGO: The simple things in life will bring you joy today. Do not take on too much but enjoy working through your chores one by one. A health issue could be worrying you now. Do not be impulsive today. Try to keep your temper under control. No partying in the evening. Tarot Message: Trust your heart and intuition. Lucky Colour: Pale Green. Magic Number: 46 

LIBRA: A tough day, be alert, aware and dynamic. Postpone work that requires concentration and physical effort. Relationships can be minefield with all sorts of emotions surfacing. Step back and take several deep breaths before you say something you will regret. Tarot Message: You need to act for yourself and for no one else. Lucky Colour: Ivory. Magic Number: 36

SCORPIO: Satisfactory day for working mothers. You will have difficulty getting along with associates. Think twice before giving in. money matters can take a turn for the better. Business can be mixed with pleasure. Pleasant evening ahead for dealing with influential people. Tarot Message: Don’t do anything at the cost of health. Lucky Colour: Lavender. Magic Number: 55

SAGITTARIUS: The outcome of lawsuit might be postponed due to matters out of your hands. You should not hesitate to shop around for a better deal. A word of caution for those suffering from any abdominal complaint. Teenagers will be at your charming best. Tarot Message: Bury an old quarrel and be preparing to make a compromise. Lucky Colour: Sea Green. Magic Number: 32

CAPRICORN: If you don’t expect the day to run smoothly get yourself prepared. If you are traveling give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination. Not a day for property deals or legal proceedings. At workplace co-operation will result in more success. Tarot Message: Do not be in the rush to spend extravagantly. Lucky Colour: Red. Magic Number: 45

AQUARIUS: Make sure you have your purse or wallet before leaving home. A friend may need your support and you may need to put off your engagement to help them through a period of heartache. Romance may contain some rather disturbing circumstances. Tarot Message: Do not leave things up to chance. Lucky Colour: Crimson. Magic Number: 25

PISCES: Do not be concerned about your business deals. They probably won’t be finalized right away. A day when spiritual affairs dominate. You may receive good news regarding your career in the evening. Tarot Message: Don’t get embroiled in ventures where returns are spread over a large period of time. Lucky Colour: Orange. Magic Number: 30





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