The Tribune, Chandigarh, India - The Tribune Lifestyle

Pump up the MUSIC
Listening to music while exercising is more than entertainment. It is what pushes you to workout harder and keeps you going
Manpriya Khurana

Summer of 69 is fine but wouldn't you rather reserve Bryan Adams for a reunion party and plug onto someone more motivating while pumping iron in the gym? Even the diehard romantics would keep aside rosy Valentine numbers. Remix is more of a club thing rather than a gym thing while most of us love Jazzy B but he's better suited to wedding videos. Huh! What do you play while working out? A couple of complaints into the unsuitable gym music had us wondering, what's actually playing in the fitness centres across the Tricity.

Back to the square one, what do you play? No wonder most people working out on the treadmill are hooked onto their own ear plugs. At some of the gyms, they'd rather not entertain requests but play what's apt. "Gym music ideally should have a definite beat. These days a lot of gyms have their in-house DJs, but we play according to the mood, whether it's an early morning workout session or late in the evening," shares Anup Debnath, health and fitness professional, Body Zone. He adds, "It used to happen earlier but requests are generally not entertained. In such a case, the club members are requested to bring their own ipods, because hundreds of people can't agree on music."

What they all perhaps agree on is, apart from the workout, music too ought to pump up your body. Shares Jasbir Kaur, director, Oceanic gym and fitness, "At times, it's pretty much like disc music. But yes, whatever the music it has to be fast paced and peppy."

If the latest numbers are uplifting, so be it. She adds, "We sieve out the suitable music from what's latest and play everything English, Punjabi, Hindi. To entertain personal tastes, we have a concept of request hour where people can even dedicate songs to each other in the gym."

While an endless number of sites will list the best workout music in every conceivable genre, it's mostly restricted to commercial music.

Kanye West's Stronger is among the latest to have been voted among the best workout song.

Rather than the workout songs, workout music is the way to go get going. Opines Sarav Chahar, city based fitness instructor, “Ideally there shouldn't be tracks or songs played at fitness studios. Fast paced instrumental music with a clear beat count is recommended. The ideal tempo is 135 beats per minute.” Nods Priya Garg, director, Leena Mogre's fitness centre, "Here, we play a lot of different genres. Since the demographics of our clients also spans a wide range. But for cardio, we play music that has 145 to 160 beats per minute. Because you need that number, while for aerobics, it's different and mixed. Lounge music is more suited to Yoga.” She adds, “On the whole, it's a bit of everything, RNb, Bollywood, retro, remixed etc. We have a live DJ, he's got a huge collection, so requests are entertained."

Laughs Sarav, "There have been times, when at this gym, we would receive weird requests for music. So pleasing one member at the cost of antagonizing the rest, doesn't work out either." He adds, “Mainstream music culture pervades the fitness studios too."

manpriya@trbunemail.com

In pursuit of perfection
Mona

Dona Ganguly, one of the leading danseuse of Odissi today, took to learning dance in her childhood just like all other Bengali children. She dabbled in many classical dance forms from a tender age of three. It was after meeting her Guru Kelucharan Mahapatra that she chose Odissi to be her forte.

She trained under Mahapatra for 25 years until his death in 2004. Dona is still a learner. She teaches dance at her school Diksha Manjari and travels around to give performances. "Dance is my passion," shares Dona. She was in Chandigarh for Mango Mela, Pinjore, Panchkula.

Travelling with her students, Dona shares that discipline becomes part of a dancer's life. "Just like people go to the gym daily, I spend an hour in riyaz."

Mahapatra Gharana is simple and classy at the same time, says Dona, who is carrying forward the legacy of her Guru. "Another plus of classical Odissi dance is that it is relatively a young dance form, so there is a lot to do."

Her latest creations Chitrangada and Shakuntala have earned her rave reviews. Chitrangada is Odissi rendition of Tagore's work while Shakuntala comes from Kalidasa. "I am open to experimentation within the classical frame," says Dona.

Performances at heritage festivals keep Dona going and the 'popcorn' generation and its culture does not worry her. "Many of the young students are enthusiastic about classical forms of art. I only see a bright future for classical art especially Odissi," she says. With a number of big names garnering loyalty for Odissi, including Hema Malini's daughters Isha and Ahana, make Dona proud. "Good for us," she says.

Happy to be performing at Pinjore, she shares Dona, "Odissi gels well heritage structures. It would be lovely performing here."

Star wife

Dona is every inch a star in her own right but one cannot but question how is it being a star's wife? "It's nice," is her pert reply. "Sourav's has had his share of cricket, he is more of a media person now," says the relaxed wife of former Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly. Being a famous cricketer's wife has its share of challenges but Dona has taken things in her stride.

"Yes, sometimes I had to cancel my concerts because I would be touring with him but then I could always perform in the next festival." Has Saurav been supportive of her career? "He's been fine. I guess I have managed well, not giving him a chance to complain," says Dona who is managing both professional and family ends well. Her daughter Sana is athletic, she says. "It's up to her to find her vocation," adds a happy mother.

mona@tribunemail.com

Shahid voted Asia’s sexiest vegetarian

Shahid Kapoor has voted Asia's Sexiest Vegetarian Man in a poll conducted by PETAAsiaPacific.com.

"I have always supported the cause of being a vegetarian, and it's nice to be felicitated for something so close to my heart. Being voted as sexy is a matter of perception, but being vegetarian is a lifestyle change and something that comes from a sense of responsibility," said Shahid in a statement.

Singer Faye Wong has been crowned Asia's Sexiest Vegetarian Woman. Other popular contenders included actors Kareena Kapoor and R. Madhavan, model-turned-Hollywood actress Maggie Q and Mongolian singer Nominjin, Taiwanese actor Blue Lan, actors Gao Yuanyuan and Barbie Hsu, and songwriter Louis Cheung.

"Going vegetarian is the best thing that you can do for animals, the earth and your health. Plus, there's no easier way to stay slim and sexy - and Faye Wong and Shahid Kapoor are living proof," said Jason Baker, PETA Asia vice president of International campaigns.

Shahid, who had won PETA India's Sexiest Vegetarian contest in 2009, also starred in an ad campaign "Chicks Love a Vegetarian", which promotes plant-based diet. — IANS

Imran awestruck by Kareena

Bollywood actor Imran Khan, who is currently shooting with actress Kareena Kapoor confesses he is completely smitten by her.

"It took me time to get used to that I am working with Kareena Kapoor. I was star struck. I have grown up watching her," says Imran.

"But she is very unaffected by her stardom like she doesn't care and because she is so chilled out about it, it becomes easy to break the mould with her," he added.

The 28-year-old said the film being produced by Karan Johar is untitled as of now.

"The film is still untitled and it is not 'Short Term Shaadi', for now it's called production number 27 because it's the 27th production under the Dharma (Productions) banner. But we are working on the title," he said.

"We are just half way through with the shooting, so either by the end of this year or early next year the film will release," he said.

— IANS

Family TIME

It's hip-hop time for Shah Rukh Khan and his children. The Bollywood superstar is holidaying in London with family and says he will take his son Aryan and daughter Suhana for Black Eyed Peas show.

"Taking the little ones tomorrow to see the Black Eyed Peas perform. My favourite group & found out my little ones love them too... makes me feel cooler that I am not as outdated as I thought. I know Justin Beiber too, so there!!" he tweeted.

The actor is on a break after completing the hectic shooting schedule of his superhero film Ra.One.

"Daughter went for Glee at O2... i went cycling at nite on the streets. both looked flushed and fulfilled... she danced to music & thanked me... I thanked god for giving me such joy in the simple pleasures of life," he wrote. — IANS

No more I love yous...

Hollywood funnyman Jim Carrey doesn't know if he'll ever find someone to spend the rest of his life with.

The 49-year-old actor who split from girlfriend of five years Jenny McCarthy in 2010, said that after having had to "erase" a number of former flames from his life, he doesn't know if he will ever commit to another person completely.

“I’ve been erased and I know what it's like to erase someone. You know the feeling when you loved somebody and it ends and you feel as if they've moved on or maybe even none of it ever mattered? It's a terrible feeling.

"But everything in my life comes to me for a reason, to step me up to another level and to make me learn. Every single relationship has brought me a little bit closer to realising what I want and what I don't want, and teaching me the value of love. I don't know if I'll ever actually find somebody I can hang with for the rest of my life," Carey said.

The Mr Popper's Penguins actor who has battled with depression in the past explained he has on occasions veered into a "bad neighbourhood" in his life.

"I veer off the road once in a while and take the off-ramp into a bad neighbourhood and live there for a while, but it's not usually very long. Everything starts to go wrong and you can only stay in that mode for a short time if you're awake and sober and looking at the universe," he said. — PTI

Toxic competition

Hollywood actor Ryan Reynolds says he dislikes working with competitive actors because they make movie sets "toxic".

"It's toxic on a set when you're competitive with other actors. Whenever I've worked with another actor who's been competitive, usually nine times out of 10 it has backfired on them - they've had a really unsatisfying experience. A film is so collaborative. It's the sum of its parts," he says.

Reynolds says he would love to reunite with Sandra Bullock for a project in future.

"My producing partner is incredibly close with Sandra - we all met up about 10 years ago and we've been good friends since. I never thought we'd do a film together but it worked out," he said.

"Movies like that are so contingent on that chemistry - it's a rare thing if you get it, so if I was going to do another romantic comedy, I would hope it would be with Ms Bullock." — IANS

Spielberg’s old fashioned ways

Hollywood mogul Steven Spielberg thinks making films has got easier as technology advances, but he prefers the old-fashioned craft he grew up with.

The ET director believes many people can now make films by even using a mobile phone to shoot something.

"All kids have to do these days is take their cellphone, flip it open and make a movie, but I like the way it started," he said.

"It wasn't a point-and-click art form, it was a craft. It involved solvents, photo-chemistry, cutting out poster board with industrial scissors and getting your fingers fused with Elmer's glue. It was all homemade stuff. If I was a chef, a microwave would be my worst enemy. I would want to do it the old-fashioned way," he added.

— IANS

Monsoon evenings
Catch these romantic comedies to celebrate the spirit of the season

Monsoon is here and even if it is not raining, it is too hot to go out! If you are not the I-like-getting-drenched-in-the-rain types, get your hands on these DVDs that will gladden your heart and make you laugh. We pick a variety in the romantic comedy genre.

Serendipity: This is an absolutely delightful love story starring John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale. They meet around Christmas, feel a connection but do not let it blossom. Yet, the connection is there. Will the Universe give their romance another chance? The dialogue is sharp, funny, and clever, the music is great, and John and Kate make a lovely pair that you will root for. This movie makes you believe in magic.

No Strings Attached: Friends with benefits is a growing trend these days and that is what this film is about. Traditionally, couples date and then get in the sack, here these two get in the sack and after quite an effort, officially get together. Ashton and Natalia make a very cute pair and enact their roles effortlessly. The movie has sharp dialogue. It is a little slow but pretty watchable and sweet.

A Lot Like Love: This is When Harry Met Sally remixed. Ashton Kutcher is paired with Amanda Peet. The music is great and the situations are identifiable. It is not a patch on the original but it is a likable and entertaining film.

When Harry Met Sally: This is a rom-com classic that has inspired films in the genre all over the world, including our very own Hum Tum. The dialogue is superb and Meg and Billy are unmatched in their chemistry. You discover more insights as you watch it over and over again.

Keeping The Faith: This is yet another delightful film about friends becoming lovers. Edward Norton directs himself, Ben Stiller, and Jenna Elfman is this funny and different film that weaves romance with religion. — HRM

Beckhams awaiting new member

Ace soccer David Beckham has been downloading The Beatles' songs these days for his unborn daughter, says Victoria Beckham.

David, 36, who has been preparing for the arrival of his first daughter with fashion designer wife Victoria by next month is arranging the legendary band hits in lullaby form.

"David has been downloading music for our baby! Rockabye baby lullaby renditions, so cool! Love The Beatles album!!! X VB (sic)," Victoria wrote in microblogging site Twitter.

The couple who have sons, Brooklyn, 12, Romeo, 8, and Cruz, 6, will call their new daughter Jude, after the Beatles track Hey Jude. The suggestion was made by their first child and hard core 'Beatles' fan, Brooklyn."They've narrowed the names to three - and they're keeping them a secret. Romeo wants to call her Justine Bieber, Brooklyn is a Beatles fan and suggested Jude, which David and Victoria actually like," a source said.

The Beckhams are also keen for their children to grow up musical, with Victoria herself a former singer with girl's band Spice Girls and taking the children to see a sing-a-long version of musical film Grease . "We took the boys to see Sing Along Grease at the Hollywood Bowl, it was AMAZING!!!!!! (sic)," she tweeted. — PTI

Under My Umbrella…!
Umbrellas have graduated from being a utility item to a fashion accessory. Step out in style with your new style weapon.
Deewanshi Puri

Little Johnny may want the rains to go away so he can go out and play, but…. the monsoons are here to stay. Everything about the monsoons is enough to give you a high - the smell, the thunder and lightning, the cool breeze, the greenery and the sound of raindrops! Add to that, hot tea and bhujjiyas, friends and gupshup and you can feel like you are in heaven! But that is, if you are indoors…Outdoors is another story altogether! Getting drenched in the rain and having to wade through muddy puddles isn't always fun - especially not on your way to work, college or a party. So rather than cribbing, step out and brighten the day with your smile and your umbrella!

"Thank goodness, those days of huge, black, 'grandpa' umbrellas are over. These days you get to choose from a wide variety of shapes and colours which are funky, yet chic. Pick an umbrella that suits your personality and make it look like a cool fashion accessory!" says neha, a MNC employee.

All the young girls will naturally go for the bright and bold colours-shocking red, pineapple yellow, tangy orange, strawberry pink, and neon umbrellas are sure to make heads turn! Also available are umbrellas with colourful stripes and polka dots which look really sporty and trendy.

If you are not comfortable carrying bright colours, then you can opt for whites, pastels or floral patterned umbrellas to suit your personality. These are always in vogue. Cute cartoon and heart prints, umbrellas with ruffles and frilly edges are perfect to show off your romantic girly side. "My personal favorite is the transparent plastic umbrella. It feels like the raindrops are falling on your head - but you don't get wet!" says Kishmita, a college student.

These days nobody minds picking up more than one umbrella to mix and match with different outfits, because it is quite affordable too. You can make the umbrella your style statement and increase your glam quotient!

So go out and add some joy to this season by flashing a big, trendy, colorful umbrella on a gray rainy day! And most important-don't forget to smile because, "A smile is all you need to brighten up the darkest day!"

Future Shock
Zoom in on life
Deepak Verma

Capturing moments of life is something that we love to do. Now that the technology has zoomed in so much, capturing these moments has become even more enjoyable. See the world through digital cameras.

The electronics market is flooded with a range of these gizmos offering picture clarity, speed and picture quality. To begin with, Samsung the company that is known for bring up-to-date technology to its consumers, which is why it has chosen to bring various innovations across its new 2011 camera series for both the advanced and amateur photographers, providing a balance of professional quality imaging along with the ease of usability that is easy to master.

The good part about the camera is that it is compact. In addition to this, they have a range includes the world's fastest wireless camera model, and products with 2View screen and High Zoom lens. This technology, the new range promises to deliver smart experience through its new features, including the new smart filters, the smart lens effect, zoom noise cancellation and Smart Touch UI, adding value throughout the photography experience.

Samsung's PL200 and WB600 camera models allow users to get closer to the action through their respective 7x optical zoom and 15x Schneider super zoom lens. The digital range of Nikon cameras speak for itself. Nikon S series digital camera stands for its style. It offers a variety of zoom ranges and megapixel counts. The latest models are housed in durable metal bodies, and come in a wide range of colours with sleek lines that look good anywhere. It is look and efficiency packed in one.

Coolpix is another range with advanced functions, high image quality. A good picture quality, with of course an affordable price tag.

Poise of a winner

Sonia Rakkar has always been extremely serious about her career. It is her drive that has brought her to this point. From an air force background, the Punjabi kudi from Ropar is a law graduate from Punjab University, Chandigarh.

She was seen as an anchor on Zee News as well as The Great Indian Comedy Show, Woh Rehne Wali Mehlon Ki, Agadam Bagdam Tigdam, Sab Ka Bheja Fry on the small screen. There is a confidence in this girl…as well as self-assurance in whatever she does. Sonia has not only an amazing range as an actor but is flying high with Sunil Agnihori's fantasy drama Kahani Chandrakanta Ki, her new show on Sahara One Television. She plays a warrior Padmini in this serial.

What is Kahani Chandrakanti Ki about?

The show is the continuation of Sunil Agnihotri's Chandrakanta which was aired on Doordarshan 15 years ago. It is a story of love, deceit, deception, hatred and bloodshed. The show takes you back to an era filled with exciting, but chilling royal secrets bold strategies and mind games of the Maharajas of two rival kingdoms.

Are you nervous?

No, I am not nervous because I have full confidence in my talent. I am really very excited about this big scale costume drama which has Shikha Swaroop, Puneet Issar, Maamik, Vindoo Dara Singh and Rajender Gupta in powerful roles.

What made you take up the show?

I have worked with Sunil Agnihotri earlier. So when he had to think of somebody to do Padmini's role, he thought I would be right for it. I will do justice to my character.

How different is this serial from the earlier one?

The plot is the same but there is a lot in the show which looks new and different. Technically it is more superior to the previous one. The sets, locations are new and its packaging is totally different.

What kind of shows you want to do?

I will do all kind of roles. I must admit it is difficult doing a daily shop because one has to keep a poker straight face all the time. Comedy comes naturally to me, so comedy is also another choice.

Will we see you in films?

TV is a big industry and I am comfortable with it but it will be a bonus if I get a film that satisfies me. Let us see how it goes.

— Dharam Pal

GET PHYSICAL
Sip of life
Sachin Kalra

If you want to improve your quality of life, here are some basic health tips that can be followed by most.

Select an exercise pattern to suit your lifestyle. All of us have different lifestyles and professions so there is no sense in trying to follow the book. Try and follow an exercise routine that is suitable for you. You have to understand that even more important than the exercise is to stick to it. So unless you choose something that can suit your lifestyle, you are not going to stick with it.

n Stop smoking. The best thing to do for your health is to quit smoking. Even if you fail, keep trying.

n Running, swimming, walking or cycling five times a week even for 20 minutes can help reduce the risk of diabetes by 45%.

n If you are always surrounded by food and cannot resist it then try a chewing gum.

n Avoid over exercising and crash dieting, as they will slow down your metabolic rate.

n Add fish to your weight loss regimen. Overweight people who are on a weight loss diet may be able to reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes by eating fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, cod and mackerel. Fatty fish are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to protect against heart disease by lowering your cholesterol level and reducing high blood pressure.

n Remember when buying low fat foods that they may claim to be low in fat but some of them contain lots of sugar, which is high in calories and if you are sticking to a calorie controlled diet then just because its low in fat doesn't mean you can eat as much of it as you want.

n If you mix fruit juice with 50 per cent water, it will not only save you money but also helps prevent rapid sugar levels in your blood.

n There is no faster way to increase energy, lose weight and optimise digestion than to increase your daily intake of water. The fluid in your body will also ensure that you can move well and be active.

n Everyone has his or her favourite treats. Simply allow yourself a little indulgence, but watch out for the frequency and the quantity. Having a small treat occasionally can be rewarding to your weight loss experience. Cutting too much of your favourite treats usually leads to an early relapse.

n Get more sleep. Lack of sleep alters your hormone levels and capacity to metabolise carbohydrates so less sleep equals to a slower metabolism.

n Keep a positive mental outlook. There is a definitive connection between living well and healthfully and having a cheerful outlook on life.

(Kalra is a Chandigarh-based fitness expert)

trendsetter
A modern purist

All smiles: Ayushi Daula. Photo: Himanshu Mahajan

Being trendy and stylish is one aspect which all youngsters like to follow. Some follow trends while others like to set trends. It all depends on their style quotient, which could be just a faded jean, straight hair or a mix of brands. Crowned Miss Beautiful Smile in college, a student of music Ayushi Daula shares her views.

Your sense of style is …..

It has to be a combination of traditional and western but suitable to the occasion.

Latest addition to your wardrobe….

I really treasure my nail art pens.

Brand crazy or street pickups?

Both do for me.

Choose a look-chic, sporty or glamorous….

Chic

My style icon would be…….

I am a style icon for myself!

Who do you think is the worst- dressed celebrity?

Rakhi Sawant for her atrocious sense of dressing.

One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension…..

Jeans with tattered slits but for girls only.

Your take on accessories?

I am not comfortable with any accessories. I do not feel the need to enhance my looks.

What boosts your confidence..

Compliments especially from my mom boost my confidence.

(As told to Poonam Bindra)

Social pressure may lead to false memories

Social pressure can make people form false memories while recalling shared events with their friends, a new study has found.

Researchers from University College London found that people regularly replace their stored memory with the one that is recounted by a friend, the Daily Mail reported. The researchers arranged for volunteers to watch a documentary film in small groups.

Three days later, they were called individually to the lab to take a memory test, answering questions about the film.

They were also asked how confident they were in their answers. They were later invited back to the lab to retake the test while the scientists scanned their brain activity. This time, the subjects were also given a "lifeline", the supposed answers of the others in their film viewing group, along with social media-style photos.

— PTI

Chatter box

Deepti on a role

Deepti Bhatnagar is back to producing and directing as with Happy Housewives Club on SAB TV, she will bring forth the talent of numerous housewives in India. The concept allows housewives to showcase their talent - cooking, dancing, painting etc, on a platform on national TV. Reportedly, the show has got over 200 housewives clubs across India. Deepti Bhatnagar who has always tried to do new stuff is excited about this endeavour. Happy Housewives Club will start air Monday to Friday at 1:30 pm starting July 4.

Happy times: Deepti Bhatnagar

Believe it or not

Li'l champ singer Sargam Kant from Allahabad got a scolding from Guru Adnan for being superstitious. Actually Sargam got rejected before in Li'l champs, so this time he got blessings from Haji Ali and bought a red cap there. Since then he has been wearing it and as he got selected, he thinks the red cap is lucky for him. Guru Adnan asked Sargam to remove the cap and give the performance minus his so called -lucky cap. He was appalled at Sargam for being superstitious at his young age and admonished the Li'l singer.

Pooja Gor's photography passion

Well spoken and beautiful Pooja Gor, aka Pratigya of Star Plus's popular show Mann Ki Awaaz Pratigya, has acquired a new passion which is photography. While she enjoys acting in front of the camera, the actor is excited about gathering information on new camera lenses, angles and capturing moments. The young actress is super excited about her new SLR camera and is seen utilizes every opportunity to learn the tricks and shoot pictures. Apart from learning from others, Pooja has also been reading up about photography online.
right click: Pooja Gor

Happy to be lucky

Hot and handsome Gurmeet Choudhary aka Maan of Star One's Geet was thrilled to meet up with his fans on the sets of his show recently. Gurmeet The group of girls came all the way from Bihar accompanied by their mother to meet Gurmeet. He was thrilled to make the acquaintance and received gifts. He got a photo frame with a picture of his wife Debina and him. The girls told him that the difference between Gurmeet in Ramayan and Geet is that he was cute in Ramayan and is hot in Geet! Obviously, Gurmeet couldn't help but grin from ear to ear.
fan club: Gurmeet

Meet Preeto

Imagine's new show Sanware Sabke Sapne Preeto was recently launch amidst a lot of hoopla. Actress Ankita Sharma who plays the part of Preeto explained the character and her qualities. "Preeto is a very responsible girl who loves her family a lot and is willing to do anything for them. Though she is a girl and in a house of five sisters, she hates going into the kitchen and stays away from it and all kitchen related chores. She works and loves stitching on her really old sewing machine. She has a small boutique and wants to be a fashion designer one day."

stitch in time: Ankita Sharma

Ekta Kapoor Amrita Singh teams up with Ekta

After the success of Pyaar Ki Ye Ek Kahaaani and Bade Achche Lagte Hain, Ekta Kapoor is now launching a new show titled Fashion. The show will air on a youth centric channel and will depict the lives of the fashion industry. Apparently, Amrita Singh has been approached for the role of a head of a fashion house and the hero's mom. She is thinking about it and will soon revert to Ekta who is looking out for a suitable star cast.
NEW MOVE: Ekta Kapoor

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Love life is sparklingly beautiful. Enjoy the pleasurable vibes . A relaxing day ahead. You may be overprotective of your children. But if you have teenagers, be prepared for a battle of wills. Tarot Message: Do not expect too much from others. Lucky colour: White. Magic Number: 50

TAURUS: A piece of good news will cheer you up. A romantic feel to the day is healing. Don't click on those flashing winner signs on the Internet or you might get a virus that will slow down your computer down. Tarot Message: Be confident to avoid losses. Lucky colour: Forest Green. Magic Number: 35.

GEMINI: Not a good day for shopping. A level of anxiety could interfere with your sense of well-being. Consider your diet also. Too much caffeine or sugar is not good thing. Switch to water and feel the difference. Tarot Message: Hasty decisions as it could lead to waste of money. Lucky coloUr: Crimson. Magic Number: 33

CANCER: Take things step-by-step. Health glows. Speculate only if you are ready to lose money. Focus on hobbies Anything you have done wrong or in a slipshod fashion can be exposed to the public. Tarot Message: Don't waste an opportunity by being rash or impulsive. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic Number: 25.

LEO: Be logical in your thoughts. A change of plan can throw you into turmoil. Don't expect people to make compromises and you won't be let down. Stop worrying about what other people think of you.

Tarot Message: Learn from past experiences to avoid making mistakes. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic Number: 25.

VIRGO: Push routine to one side. Partnership issues are likely to surface. Singles suffering from the lack of a partner might start reading self-help books. Face the facts talk to your partner, with love changes can occur. Tarot Message: Be determined and confident to solve problems. Lucky colour: Mauve. Magic Number: 31

LIBRA: Auspicious day for purchasing ornaments. Hasty actions can lead to situations best avoided. Keep your wits about you and don’t get agitated. Financial concerns can give you cause for worry. Tarot Message: Be articulate to prevent people from Drawing conclusions. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic Number:42

SCORPIO: There will be good opportunities to show off your artistic flare. Loved ones will do what they can to help solve family financial problems. Savor the romantic glow of the morning.

Tarot Message: Dare to accomplish those tasks which normally take up a lot of time. Lucky colour: Red. Magic Number: 52

SAGITTARIUS: Your effort will not go unnoticed by superiors. Talk with you lover about your future plans and goals. Enjoy fantasizing over the countless possibilities. Your imagination is likely to be at peak. Tarot Message: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic Number: 40.

CAPRICORN: The accent is on pleasure. Strong feelings can overwhelm you and distort your sense of perspective. Family issues could also come to a head. Let them stew under the surface and let everyone have their say. Tarot Message: Don't reveal your plan of action to anyone. Lucky colour: Pink Magic Number: 63

AQUARIUS: Maintain harmony. Communication on the job can assume greater importance. An opportunity to work in advertising might come your way. Your creative imagination is stimulated, along with an intuitive ability. Tarot Message: Don't do anything at the cost of health. Lucky colour: Aqua. Magic Number: 59

PISCES: Remember resolutions about diet & nutrition. Health problem could slow you down. Some of you might be lying in the arms of your lovers and be reluctant to make any changes all day long. Tarot Message: Make compromises outside and come to terms within yourself. Lucky colour: Purple Magic Number: 36

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is July 4...

The number 4 represents the Cancer zodiac sign and it is ruled by the dual elements of water and fire. The number 4 people sport a red and orange aura. The month of April and Thursdays are lucky for the number 4 persons. The 2nd, 6th, 8th, 13th and 22nd are good monthly dates. Business: The first quarter of 2012 will be auspicious for economic prospects. Career: Beware of a jealous Virgo colleague. Self-employed people will have new ideas. The stars advise considering all proposals. Education: Forget what others say. Concentrate on studies. You will experience changes in educational interests. Family: During year 2011 children may suffer from diseases or ill health. Finance: Investments made are likely to bring gradual profits. Your wealth will increase. Friendship: You will be very loyal to your friend but at the same time very demanding. Health: Cancerian is often his own worst enemy in the health department. Love: Toning down your usual enthusiasm and tempering your strong will can be keys to relationship success. Travel: Avoid travels to Delhi or in South direction on Thursdays if going for a very special motive. State of Mind: Clever and farsighted. Compatible Signs: Scorpio, Libra. Lucky Colors: Khaki, Hot Pink. Lucky Days: Thursday and Friday. Lucky Numbers: 9, 10, 14, 22, 40.

Neena Gupta (July 4 ,1959) who is a 1980 alumnus of NSD and has made appearances in Gandhi (1982) , shares her birthday with you. She starred with Madhuri Dixit and featured in the popular song Choli ke peeche in the movie Khalnayak. She also hosted the Indian version of the TV series, The Weakest Link, Kamzor Kadii Kaun and appeared in Jassi Jaissi Koi Nahin. She has also directed successful TV series, such as Saans and Kyun Hota Hai Pyaar, and has made the telefilms Lajwanti and Bazar Sitaram.