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Destination luxury
With a dash of arrogance that lies deep within the attitude of Chandigarh, various luxury hotels, ready to open their doors, are experimenting and bringing the acme of élan to the city of the Open Hand. Upcoming brands Like they say, not all good things in life are easy to get. One such place, for which you have to meander you way to the Chandigarh-Ambala highway is KC Royal Resort. But yes, the wait is worth the traffic woes you suffer! Nestled right next to the golf course overlooking the serene Morni hills is this architectural delight. The standard welcome drink will be supplemented by offering a game of golf here. Inching towards acquiring the right certifications and hoping to make a grand entry on the hospitality scene is this impeccable hotel. “Brands are not easy to create; we are taking up the challenge to provide a human touch. We want to carve a niche for ourselves,” informs Pardeep Sabharwal, general manager of the hotel. Quiet delight
Space out
As soon as you enter the wooden doors of JW Marriot, you are transported into the world of mother-of pearl doors, magnificent wall art and the hustle-bustle of the last minute. “For us, luxury is about giving you an experience to cherish. It’s about the fine web that we, as a luxury hotel, have created with the city to bring the JW brand to Chandigarh. It’s about giving you the space, but being there just when you lift your head for help,” says Deepak Manocha, General Manager. Just as we walk through the lobby lounge, a wall art makes an effective impression. “It’s depictive of the branches of trees flowing, representing the flow of Indian culture,” says Deepak. Keeping harmony with the line and symmetry format of Chandigarh, the elements of Corbusier have been intricately The hit list
Brand royal
Everyone is well acquainted with the hospitality that Taj Chandigarh offers. Just as one walks through the mammoth-sized glass doors, greeted by the ‘durbaan’, one is enveloped in the home-like hospitality that it has to offer. The kind of expertise that the staff has in its respective fields is mirrored in the ambience of the hotel. Taj believes it will thrive on brand loyalty it has created for itself. “The Taj Group of Hotels has been associated with brand loyalty since the past 100 years. Since we enjoy a positive domestic and international patronage. Nothing will change for us, except maybe a few marketing strategies,” smiles Saira Dhir, sales manager. Green magic
Beauty redefined
The rooms at Bella Vista overlook the panoramic Shivalik hills. Inspired from an Italian name meaning beautiful sight, it truly stands up to its name. Made in boutique style, the hotel boasts of nine swimming pools, located on different floors, some attached to the cabana-styled room. “For us luxury is defined by fine-detailing. We have clients who join us from the town and relax over the weekends,” shares Naveen Kanwar, sales manager. vasudha@tribunemail.com |
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A fine balance
“It is only a physically fit body that will propel the mind to be healthy,” says Gagan Salithia, an employee of a telecom company in Mohali. Following a diet plan that includes green tea, boiled vegetables, skimmed milk, fresh fruit juice, salad, sugar-free muesli topped with plain yoghurt and chicken, he says, “My job requires a lot of mental exertion, so I need strength. Therefore, I follow a diet specified by a fitness expert. These rules and regulations in eating habits have streamlined my life to a great extent.” “Wholesome goodness comes from sensible eating habits and it’s not hard to follow a diet plan,” says Nalini, yoga therapist and a diet consultant from Sector 4, Panchkula. Agreeing that a lot of people are following a customised diet plan, she says, “Today it’s not only the youth that is aware of the importance of good health, but also women above 40. As a diet consultant, we counsel them about the right food, not just home food but also what they eat outside.” She adds, “Adhering to strict rules of exercise everyday is not enough for a fit body. Though we all love food and it is a healthy attitude to love food, excess eating needs to be controlled.” Says Madhu Arora, chief dietician, GMCH-32, “Apart from the regular patients, the number of people who want to lose weight has increased over the years. And I may add children who are obese are an add-on to the list.” A diet plan that systematically reduces weight and can be easily followed is what they suggest at the hospital. “We counsel the individual and then suggest a diet plan for a healthy and fit body,” she says. Ritika Malhotra, private bank employee, says, “Post pregnancy I have been following my dietician and she has guided me not only on what to eat at home, but also outside. Since I am a working woman I cannot avoid eating out, so she guides me on what kind of food I can opt for when eating at a restaurant.” Well, that’s not all. My Nutrition, a shop in Sector 9, Panchkula that sells health supplements intends to start diet consultancy since people who buy the products ask for diet plans as well. Says Munish, manager, “Right now we have health and beauty products but many people who buy them want counselling on diet also, so we plan to start it soon.”
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Modern marvel
How about catching up on a spa on a short break during a journey? Upcoming Mohali Junction, developed by C&C Constructions, is all set to offer office space, retail outlets and entertainment, all rolled in one.
Transport operations will roll out by September, this year, and by year end, a Hyatt budget hotel (four star); major national and international brands would have set their shop here. "All major cities were developed around the ports earlier. Now transportation hubs would fuel economic activity," says Sehgal, citing the example of Hong Kong, one of the most compact area with the least number of vehicles per capita. Freeways take urbanisation along. "On similar lines, this junction would attract lots of business and bring about." A multi-cuisine food court, pubs, discotheque, sports bar, gym and spa, this Rs 450-crore ambitious project is all set to re-define city lifestyle. "Our region did not offer anything world class so far, with international fire safety measures, Wi-Fi connectivity and 24-hour power back-up. This will also attract foreign players to set up base here," says Sehgal. This newage workspace will be the tallest building in the region with a helipad and rooftop restaurant offering a view of the city and it will be managed by professional property management firms. mona@tribunemail.com
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Future Shock
We all can relate to the times when we could proudly flaunt the Hamara Bajaj. Today with the growth in Indian economy, expensive cars, imported bikes and modified vehicles have become a rage.
How would you feel if a car entered into the lake in front of you, changed into a convertible and swam like the best of whales? If it goes deep up to 33-ft? If it has a zero-emission electric engine? If it is as mesmerizing on the road as it is inside the blue H2O? That jaw-dropping exclamatory expression holds true for this concept automobile, which has the ability to dive into water and leave your heart pumping hard. "The sQuba" is a concept from Rinspeed, a zero-emission sports car that has the ability to dive underwater up to 10m (33ft) deep. The sQuba is based on a Lotus Elise chassis, however, in order to operate on both land and underwater, the engine has been removed and replaced with three electric motors supplied with power by rechargeable Lithium-ion batteries. One of the motors is used to provide power on land, while the other two drive the screws at the rear, once underwater. Also helping to propel the sQuba underwater are two rotating jet drives mounted up front. |
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Wife knows when hubby feigns …
Three-quarters of Britons believe their partner listens only to what they want to hear, claims a survey. More than half of those who polled said the tactic of not acknowledging a request was the main cause of rows, over anything from money troubles to housework. The survey found 83 per cent of the respondents suspected their partner had full control over selective hearing and could choose what they did and did not take in. Many tested their other half by asking them to repeat what they had just said to see if they were really listening. Seventy per cent of the women admitted using this tactic as they believe their menfolk simply pretend not to hear when asked to do chores. Most said their partner's selective hearing increased as they turned older - but only a third thought it may be a symptom of hearing loss. This could be unfair, according to Boots, which carried out the study for its Great Big Hearing Test campaign. The study found that taking steps to correct genuine hearing loss can do wonders for a couple. Many of those surveyed said it improved their relationship, increasing their conversations with partners and reducing arguments. —IANS
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Comeback trail
Vikram Bhatt’s Haunted 3D has grossed crores of rupees, and the director is on a high. He has announced that his next film, Dangerous Ishq, which is also the comeback film of actor Karisma Kapoor. Vikram talks to us about his next, Karisma Kapoor, and more. New Ishq
In Dangerous Ishq, Karisma is going to play five roles in five different lifetimes, spanning a whole gamut of India’s mythological and historical events. My research is still going on, so I can’t say much about her characters. Five in one
The story opens in 1498, and then moves through various eras to contemporary times. Karisma will start by playing Mirabai, a devotee of Lord Krishna, and then move forward in time. The other roles that she will play are set in the partition era, the era of Indira Gandhi’s assassination, and the present day political scenario. Karisma’s character will go back into four different eras and lifetimes, plus there’s a role in present times. So, it’s actually a total of five roles. Exploring talent
Karisma has always been a very hard-working and capable actor. However, in terms of challenges posed to her performing abilities, I feel there have not been too many golden opportunities. I feel this is the right time for Karisma to do Dangerous Ishq. It takes her to a new level as an actor. As she is mainly known for her light, romantic-comedy films - with the exception of Fiza and Zubeidaa - this will be something new. She will be learning new skills, as there are a lot of action scenes in the film. She will be learning martial arts for this film. On convincing Karisma…
It didn’t take a lot to convince Karisma, because the moment she completed reading the script, she called me and said she wanted to do the film. She said that the script is beautiful, and that she was waiting for something like this. Dangerous Ishq too will be in 3D, so she is even more excited. Bhoot 2?
I was told that Ramu had enough on his plate, and would be unavailable to direct the sequel. I was never the first choice for Bhoot 2; he was. When I came to know that he wants to direct the sequel, I opted out, because it’s his baby. It rightfully belongs to him and not me. And I am anyway working on Dangerous Ishq and planning Haunted 2. Dangerous Ishq has been written by Amin Haji. Vikram Bhatt is yet to finalise its five leading men. Shooting for the film will start in August. —HRM |
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Actor Soha Ali Khan is rarely seen at any event or Bollywood gatherings. That’s because the actress is busy learning new things in life. She says she wants to concentrate on acting, and attending parties is not something that she likes. Soha quips, “I do party with my friends, but I am a house-bound girl. I love to spend time with my family and close friends. I love learning new skills and languages.” We talk to Soha about life, future projects, fitness and more. Right now, I am enjoying my life, actually every bit of it. I am a lazy person, so I prefer staying at home, cooking, and eating. I have to thank my mother, who has taught me everything in life: from cooking to washing. I love cooking. I am into fitness, so I cook and then go for a walk! Harvard calling
I was at Harvard recently. It was the first time they were screening a contemporary film - Rang De Basanti. The students were surprised that it was a two-and-half hour film with an interval. The question-and-answer session went on for more than an hour, and the discussion veered around contemporary issues like naxalism, Anna Hazare, Indian politics, terrorism, corruption, and how the government is dealing with all this. Before leaving for this event, thankfully, I did lots of research. Learning a new language
I like learning new things. Whenever I get time, I try learning or reading something new. Recently, I learned sign language. It’s an interesting thing, and when you speak in this language, you understand how our world has improved and how people who can’t speak can also now make people understand what they want to say. One day, I saw two kids communicating in sign language, and I found it interesting and helpful. So, I decided to learn it. Fitness mantra
I work out every day, but as I mentioned, I am a lazy person. I don’t stick to one kind of regime. I go for a walk one day, go cycling another day, and hit the gym on the other days. I also go trekking sometimes. Yoga keeps me calm. I love doing different types of meditation. Future projects
Right now, I am working on Soundtrack, directed by Neeraj Ghosh, with Rajeev Khandelwal, and Chemistry, a comedy directed by Sai Kabir. Some shooting for Chemistry is not over yet. After that, I have two scripts with me, which I will soon finalise. I don’t like to do a bulk of movies. I prefer selecting one movie, which will remain with my audience throughout the year. —HRM |
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Gaga finds support
Singer-actress Jennifer Lopez has come out in support of Rihanna and Lady Gaga’s raunchy onstage moves, saying the music scene would be “boring” without the acts. Lopez, 41, said that such acts are a part of their job and every artist depicts one’s own style on the stage, reported a publication.
“It’s part of our job to push the envelope and test the boundaries. If you don’t, it gets boring. So I love everything. I’m an artist and I love what they do. You can’t ask them to not be who they are,” said Lopez. R&B star Rihanna has always created controversy with her saucy stage acts, which included her 2010 performance on Britain’s The X Factor. The performance prompted thousands of viewers to complain to the UK TV watchdog. Gaga, who is famous for her bizarre style of dressing and creative onstage appearances, has had her share of critics. — PTI |
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New avatar
Hollywood star Drew Barrymore is set to turn music promo director for an American rock band. The 36-year-old actor, who has been in production since long, made her directorial debut with Whip It.
The Charlie’s Angels star now plans to step behind the camera once again for rockers Best Coast and direct their new single Our Deal, which will feature child star Chloe Moretz, reported a website. —PTI |
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It’s going to be a sheer poetry of romance! After the announcement of Yash Chopra’s collaboration for his next directorial venture with music maestro A. R. Rahman, comes the news that Gulzar will join in to complete the musical ensemble. “Though he has been associated with Yash Raj Films earlier, this is the first time that I will be working alongside Gulzarbhai,” said Yash Chopra. “I am looking forward to some brilliant poetry, which I am personally very fond of. It will also be a privilege working with the award winning pair of A. R. Rahman and Gulzarbhai and making some wonderful and meaningful music.” When we spoke to Gulzar, he was equally thrilled. “Yashji is someone who understands poetry and has probably redefined the poetry of romance through the music of his movies. There is a sense of excitement and anticipation in working with him.” For the rest of us, we can look forward to some soulful bliss.
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Soft corner
Ranbir Kapoor, on the Simi Garewal show, drew a self portrait to be auctioned and pledged the monies to the Mijwan Welfare Society. This NGO is the brainchild of Shabana Azmi and her god-daughter Namrata Goyal. Ranbir has come on board as youth icon of the society that supports the girl child.
Ranbir Kapoor, said, “By associating with Mijwan Welfare Society an NGO founded by the extraordinary poet lyricist Kaifi Azmi, I am paying my tribute to a rare poet who practiced what he preached: Pyar ka jashn nai tarha manana hoga, Gam kisi dil mein sahi Gam ko mitana hoga.” He added, “I am happy to join hands with MWS, which is working to provide equal opportunity to the girl child through education training and employment generation. It is heartening that Shabana Azmi and her god child Namrata Goyal are taking Kaifi Saheb’s dream forward.”—HRM |
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Shooting in the heartland of India, Ricky Bahl makes his move in true Lucknowi style on an unsuspecting girl! Lead star, Ranveer Singh, plots his strategy as he trails his next victim, Aditi Sharma in a crowded market place in Lucknow. Is this his next victim as he confidently moves forward in his quest? Will this finally lead to him coming up v/s his match? Watch this space for more. Ladies v/s Ricky Bahl is a fun-filled rom com where a smooth and charming conman, Ricky Bahl, cons girls for a living but finally meets his match. Produced by Aditya Chopra and directed by Maneesh Sharma, the film stars the charismatic Ranveer Singh and Anushka Sharma in the lead roles, along with Dipannita Sharma, Aditi Sharma and introducing Parineeti Chopra. The film is planned for a 9th
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A roller coaster ride
There are too many demands a daily soap actor has to meet. How do you handle the pressure? I have to give my production house due credit as they gave me three days off after the accident to recuperate at home. It is a lot for daily soaps as it is not possible to be away from shooting when you have to deliver the episode at the end of the day. They cooperated with me as much as they could. They even let me pack up early and I can't thank them enough. As for pressure, well I realised soon that in this career, pressure is a given and I make sure not to take work home. When I leave my shooting, I switch off from Anandi and become Pratyusha. That helps. Tell us about your recent accident? I was travelling by car on Kandivali highway when my car bumped into the car in front of us. The impact was strong and as I was not wearing my seat belt, I hurt myself pretty badly. I injured my spine, neck and arms. I had bruises all over. We heard you couldn't rest for two weeks as advised by doctors due to shootings. The doctors told me to rest for two weeks and recuperate properly but that is an impossible thing in the world of television actors. There were telecast issues and I couldn't have taken a long leave from the show, especially now that the Jagya-Anandi-Gauri track is going on so well. How are you able to shoot then? I would pop pain killers and shoot. My co-stars and production crew take care of me. I try not to exert myself much and rest as much as I can. But while shooting or rehearsing, I have to give it all. How does it feel now that Balika Vadhu is garnering high TRPs? The TRPs have gone up after a year and it thrills me to no end. It is always satisfying to see that your work is appreciated. As the show was always one of the top grosser, the expectations were always high. I am really happy that we delivered and the audiences love the show's current story line. What are you enjoying the most about the current track? Everything- the tension, the twists, the drama and the excitement in the show. In fact, I was happy to know that I won the Gold award for the best debutant. I couldn't attend the event as I was in Jaipur and I regret that I missed the occasion. But Smita di, who plays my saas in Balika Vadhu, took the award on my behalf. It was a high for me. What do people advice Anandi to do in this situation? People tell me to shout at Jagya, fight for my right and not give up. They want me to help him come back into the family fold.
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One would have thought that being a daily soap actor, Harshad Chopra, last seen as Anurag in Star Plus' Tere Liye, would have jumped at the opportunity of doing an adventure show, especially when it will air on his favourite channel. But he surprised many when he turned down the offer to participate in an adventure reality show which will be the next big thing on television. Several popular TV actors have signed up while many names are in the air and will be finalised soon. Apparently sources claim Harshad is enjoying his break and learning new things and he didn't want to disrupt his schedule. We hope to see Harshad on TV soon- daily soap or not!!
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However, she adds that the experience on the show has been fantastic. "The journey has been amazing. Sherya madam taught me how to perform better. Besides singing, I also learnt dance in X-Factor." She even predicted the winner- Deewana or Nirmiti.
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The year ahead
If your birthday is June 23...
Ruled by Mercury, the number 5 has an intellectual vibration that comes with the combination of 2 plus 3 in your case. These are "idea" people with a love for variety and the ability to adapt to most situations. You are talented and versatile, very good at presenting ideas. Your mind is quick, clever and analytical. Workplace socialising wouldn't amount to wasting time: it's information-gathering and relationship-reinforcing. Education: Students may have difficulty in concentration. Family: Demands on your wallet would rise sharply as events require you to 'throw money' on wasteful items. Financial condition will be good. Health will be as usual. Love : The Moon in your sign brings your emotions to the surface and you will be attracted to the opposite sex.Travel:. You've travelled a great distance to be here, whether that's in physical miles or mental obstacles you had to overcome. Compatible Signs: Cancer, Pisces. Lucky Colors: Turquoise, Yellow. Lucky Days: Mondays and Thursdays. Lucky Numbers: 5, 13, 25, 46. |
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Astro turf
ARIES: Romantic life takes an upswing. A good day to try your luck in speculative deals. With so many things on the go, you could get sidetracked easily. A family matter can be sorted out. Tarot Message: Leave things open ended for best results.
Lucky colour: Peach Magic Number: 33 TAURUS: Pay heed to wise counsel. Those looking for a job will receive suitable offer. You may experience an unusual degree of selflessness of love. Excellent time to work on a new creative project. Tarot Message: You need to be creative if you want to retain your grip over your business. Lucky colour: Red Magic Number: 59 GEMINI: A busy day ahead. Please keep a balance between work and rest. Students: do not become reckless. Focus will make all the difference. An adventurous frame of mind might entice you to try something new. Tarot Message: Wait a while everything will get sorted out on its own. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic Number: 47 CANCER: Consolidate your gains and do not run after new money spinning schemes. Help other people, but not at the expense of your own good. Set aside time to get in touch with your thoughts and feelings. Tarot Message: You will get the help you need if you ask for it. Lucky colour: Black Magic Number: 37 LEO: Today most of your time & attention should be centered on your personal life. Arguments with your spouse could become serious. Have faith in your own abilities and you will have the courage to burn plus unstoppable energy. Tarot Message: Do not overspend just to impress others. Lucky colour: Golden Magic Number: 25 VIRGO: Cheerful morning for sportsmen. You will find new opportunities opening up for you. Keep your professional and personal life separate and you won't have to worry about gossip. An opportunity to work from home could come your way. Tarot Message: Over optimism could lead to mistakes. Lucky colour: Royal Blue Magic Number: 27 LIBRA: Your personal plans will meet with some stiff opposition. You reputation could be on the line. Act impartially and avoid the pitfalls of guilt. Practicing workaholics should consider joining a club and make friends. Tarot Message: You can stabilise your financial situation if you make property investments. Lucky colour: Purple Magic Number: 63 SCORPIO: Money wise the day is slow. Friends may lose your confidence. Your beloved may be in a lively mood. Mercury, the planet of communication, starts to move forward again today. Group activities are likely to be heard in a one-on-one discussion. Tarot Message: Avoid gossip session at workplace. Lucky colour: Silver Magic Number: 26 SAGITTARIUS: Go all out to improve your position at work. Spend time with yourself, listening to your thoughts and feelings. Start a journal or make your own video and record this personal journey of self discovery. Tarot Message: Open up new doors that could lead you in a lucrative direction. Lucky colour: Golden Brown Magic Number: 54 CAPRICORN: Domestic issues come up for urgent consideration. Have no worries, your work is well under control. Unrealistic ideals can lead to confrontation. A friend in a power position will be a great support. Tarot Message: Health of elderly member at home will need to be looked after. Lucky colour: Deep crimson. Magic Number: 54. AQUARIUS: Housewives: a day to improve your home appearance. An intense discussion with your partner early on can play on your mind all day long. Be honest with yourself in any conflict and stay free of blame or shame. Tarot Message: You have well-wishers around who will give you sound advice. Lucky colour: Pink Magic Number: 30 PISCES: A partnership might be in the pipeline and looks set for success. A favorable day for finances. An argument with your lover can blow over in a short period of time, so don't let your temper harm you. Tarot Message: Take limited risks and don't jeopardise your long term capital. Lucky colour: Forest green Magic Number: 57 |
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Synonymous with the luxury segment, The Lalit will soon be ready to welcome the elite of the city. With state-of-the-art interiors and dimming lights, the hotel is also pinning hopes on the aesthetical value of the forest outlining it. “We will basically weave the Lalit hospitality and the Corbusier effect in the designing and the appeal we present. Away from the maddening crowd, it will give our clients an opportunity to enjoy serene environment,” shares Munish Bhatnagar, deputy general manager (projects).
An epitome of the first experience of five-star luxury ever offered to Chandigarh was Hotel Mountview. With lush green lawns and located on the popular ‘gehri’ route of the town, it has constantly reworked policies, architecture and the levels of comfort it provides to its guests. Harmilan, sales manager of the hotel, updated us on what was different. He shares, “We function on feedback. The rooms are being provided wooden floors, due to the responses we had from our clients.” Planning to sustain on the hospitality factor, Harmilan was quick to add, “When it comes to luxury, its not just the furniture or the décor one has, its significant to handle customers effectively,” he says.
Too many people let their taste buds dictate what they eat, but turning away from palate-pleasure there are some who let the nutritionist and fitness experts decide what they eat as well as how much they eat. Believing that sluggish body leads to a sluggish mind, these are the people who like to balance their life with a balanced diet!
A modern bus terminus, 15 minutes from the upcoming airport at Mohali, this junction will have India's first 10-screen multiplex. "With expandable and retractable spaces, 55 shows a day, a show every 20 minutes, no one would have to go back for want of tickets," says Col. Sehgal, general manager, C &C. 
While a lot of husbands may think selective hearing at home is a smart way to avoid menial household works, what they are perhaps unaware of is that usually their other half very well knows about their feigning acts.
Life of a daily soap actor is full of highs and lows, be it hanging on to the TRPs or worrying about holiday. Recently Pratyusha Banerjee, coincidentally went through both the highs and the lows with her show finally regaining high TRPs and later she suffered some injuries in a car accident. Pratyusha talks about her career and life
Manjeera Ganguly the first contestant to be eliminated from X-Factor India on Sony, is the voice behind title tracks of popular TV shows like Kitani Mohabbat Hai, Pavitra Rishta, advertisements and regional films. Manjeera admits she was shocked at her ouster and reveals, "The elimination was definitely shocking as I would rate my last performance Hare Rama Hare Krishna as my best in the show." 
Raj Babbar(June 23, 1952 ,Agra) is an alumnus of the 1975 batch of National School of Drama. He started with Reena Roy in Sau Din Saas Ke and attained recognition in Insaaf Ka Tarazu. He gave remarkable performances in Chan Pardesi and Long Da Lishkara besides Punjabi films Aasra Pyar Da, Marhi Da Diva, Mahaul Theek Hai, Shaheed Uddham Singh, Yaaran Naal Baharaan and Ek Jind Ek Jaan. Babbar often does Punjabi films for free. Arya Babbar and Juhi Babbar are his two children from Nadira Babbar. He joined Samajwadi Party and became Member of Parliament three times from his native constituency of Agra.. From 2012 onwards, Babbar's horoscope indicates fractured political and cinematographic destiny.