It’s A BEAUTIFUL DAY
A leaf from history
Mona


faith calling: A view of GURDWARA nADA sAHIB
Some five kilometres from Chandi Devi’s temple, is the historic Sikh Gurdwara Nada Sahib. The Gurdwara looks majestic next to river Ghaggar in the Shivalik foothills. A blend of tradition and modernism, at this Gurdwara live shabad kirtan goes on from four in the morning to nine at night. Grand chandeliers adorn this space where devotees come from far and wide. This Gurdwara dates back to the 17th century. Legend goes that after the victory of Bhangani in 1688, Guru Gobind Singh halted here while travelling from Paonta Sahib to Anandpur Sahib. During their stay, a farmer and follower Bhai Nadu Shah served Guru Gobind Singh and the accompanying warriors. The Guru showered his blessings on Nadu Shah and said that the Gurdwara would be named after him. Lakhs of devotees visit the Nada Sahib Gurdwara on the full moon day (Pooranmashi) of every month.

More in the city


old gARH: rEMAINS OF THE FORT
Theatre group Mask is staging a play Ek Soch at the Punjab Kala Bhavan-16 on Saturday at 7:30. The play is based on one of Bhagat Singh’s parcha Main Nastik Kyon Haan. “The play takes you a step beyond what is commonly known about Bhagat Singh,” says Ravinder Kumar.

Chandigarh is named after Goddess Chandi. Knowing the fact is one thing; visiting this ancient stone temple another!

Around 15 kilometres from Chandigarh, on Chandigarh-Kalka highway, a small board indicates the temple towards the left. A few steps ahead, after crossing the railway line one reaches a white stone gate. The green forest cover acts as a canopy for this unassuming temple that dates back to some 5000 years ago. The stone idols bear testimony of the times.

The legend goes that long back the kingdom of demon king Mahishasur was in this thick forest. Against all the religious and spiritual practices, Mahishasur would take the form of a buffalo and obstruct the yajnas. Not only were the rishis helpless but also the devtas. Rishi munis invoked Devi’s shakti to save them from Mahishasur’s wrath.

At this very place, they say, the goddess took Chandi avatar, mounted her lion and killed the demon.

Later, when Pandavas were on their agyatvaas, they worshipped the goddess and were granted the boon of victory as well as weapons.

Sadhus started worshipping at this place, and, today some 59th generation of pujaris are here at this shaktipeeth. Every 14th full moon day of jyeshth month, a huge fair is held here.

Alongside the temple, among the forest on a hillock, Raja Bhagvan Singh made a fort (garh); the gate of this old garh made of small bricks stands locked with holy flags fluttering on the hill.

A small village grew up here and the place started to be known as Chandi Garh. After independence when the first president of India Dr Rajendra Prasad came to pay obeisance, it was decided to call the modern city coming up nearby as ‘Chandigarh’. “A stone was taken from here to lay the foundation of the city,” shares the pujari. Apart from the three pindis, a small shiva lingam and Ashtabhuja Mata here belong to the ancient times. They say the goddess blesses every person who pays obeisance here!

mona@tribunemail.com

For the Bride
Jasmine Singh

This is one time when everyone forgets about the rising prices. At least, two people in the world at one time are not bothered about whether the government can bring down inflation. They are the bride and the bridegroom and the event — marriage — makes them forget everything! It is the moment to splurge, to look beautiful and to bedeck anything that wears the tag of designer.

Enlivens Deiva, a designing company, brings a two-day (July 16 and 17) bridal exposition to Chandigarh at Hotel Taj. Take a pick from stylish western wear, evening gowns, designer sarees, designer jewellery and traditional wear.

One reason to look forward to this exhibition is that other than the bride and the groom, parents, relatives and friends will also find stuff to match up to their celebration mood. Not to miss the words, ‘competitively priced’.

With everything in line, we join threads of creativity weaved by designers from Delhi and Mumbai, who are participating in this event. Amit Kumar Kashyap, a designer of Enlivens Deiva, has designed bridal collection with handmade glittering work, making it the most memorable day for the bride and the groom. “Unlike what designers would think, natural fabrics are always the best pick. The idea is to design a dress that can be worn on other occasions as well.” Eco-friendly is Amit’s choice. “Women have become smarter, they want their bridal wear as a dress that they can flaunt at other occasions. I have reduced heaviness in the gowns, giving them exclusivity in the wear,” adds Amit as he shows us garments woven with less machinery work, which look stunning. In addition to this, Amit wants to promote rural weavers who dedicate their time and energy in making beautiful dresses.

With the bridal dress sorted out, we shift focus to another important aspect of wedding - jewellery. Who is cribbing about growing gold prices! Designers Aradhna and Meenakshi of BVRL’s traditional and designer fashion jewellery collection bring a balanced touch of ethnic and conventional designs, at the same time focusing on contemporary needs of the customer. “Customisation is an important part of jewellery designing because we cannot pass off anything in the name of fashion. At BVRL we make whatever the customer wants packed in a style.”

We can’t forget the mention of bold and bright hues. Rupaali, a fashion designer from Mumbai, showcases a blend of royal colour contracts in her collection - Empress. “This wedding season its plazos and shararas taking place of salwars and churidars with long shirts in bold royal colours, which will lift the mood of the occasion.”

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Original score
Director Pammi Somal, in Chandigarh to promote her upcoming movies says she wouldn't steal a plot from English novels or movies
Jasmine Singh

It is a debate that is far more thrilling than a Ram Gopal Varma movie - women directors bring in more sensitivity and fineness to the table than their male counterparts! Director Pammi Somal, in Chandigarh to promote her movies Mummy Punjabi starring Kirron Kher, Jackie Shroff, and Naa Janey Kab Sey with Garry Gill, Amrita Prakash and Gurpreet Ghuggi, cannot relate to a Delhi Belly and Ragini MMS. She would rather be known as an original movie-maker.

“I want to be known for original stories. I wouldn’t steal a plot from English novels or movies. I have different sensibilities that don’t conform to a movie like Ragini MMS because 50 per cent of audiences want to see clean movies, they want to have a lot of fun; in plain and simple words they want to be entertained,” shares Pammi. And who can do it better than a woman director! “They are expected to, but it is an ‘each to her own’ scenario. I like the movies Farah Khan makes. On the other hand, I like emotional comedies, something I am good at.”

Women are always good with emotions, on stage or off stage. What they can find challenging is handling egos, and team of actors who carry the tag of experience. “Being a woman director is not challenging, although being a producer is. As a producer, I am emotionally blackmailed into paying more. I guess I will learn this with time,” provides Pammi, who wants to be the first woman Punjabi director. “I am working a good Punjabi script, and I want to be the first woman director to come up with an outstanding subject for the film.”

There are no ‘between the line’ ideas, everything for Pammi is sorted and clear, right there in the head. “This is why my team and co-stars respect me. They know that I am sure about things, I am focused and I don’t beat around the bush.” Will someone pass this cue to Mahesh Bhatt! No beating around the bush sir. Probably a difference between women and male directors!

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Born Hindu way!

Hindus have welcomed American pop star Lady Gaga’s reported interest in Hinduism and reincarnation. In an interview published in an Indian daily, Gaga, 25, was quoted as saying: “I actually find that a lot of my philosophies about art are mirrored in the Hindu religion. The idea of reincarnation.” Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) said that as the Born This Way singer explored Hinduism further, she would appreciate the rich, diverse and long tradition of Hindu philosophy; and its interpretation of the nature of reality.

Zed, who is the president of Universal Society of Hinduism, further said that if Gaga needed any help in deeper Hinduism exploration, he or other Hindu scholars would be glad to assist.

He also recommended Gaga to realise the self. Ancient Hindu scripture Katha Upanishad points out that when wise realise the self, they go beyond sorrow. Self is supreme and those who meditate on self are freed from the cycle of birth and death. When one realizes self, there is nothing else to be known, he added. — ANI

First day first show
Fresh & magical
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Part 2)

The final adventure in the cult series follows Harry (Radcliffe), Ron (Grint), and Hermione (Watson) as they prepare for a final battle with Lord Voldemort (Fiennes), who is determined to destroy Harry once and for all. In order to defeat the powerful wizard, they must find and destroy Voldemort’s last and most elusive Horcrux - that is, the enchanted piece of soul allowing him to remain immortal —before his nefarious plans come to fruition.

According to the critics, Childhood ends, this time forever, with tears and howls, swirls of smoke, the shock of mortality and bitter-sweet smiles in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Part 2), the grave, deeply satisfying final movie in the series.

Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, Helena Bonham Carter, Ralph Fiennes, Michael Gambon, Alan Rickman

Different level

“It’s a perfect ending to the series. The feel of the movie is far too good. Even if you haven’t seen the previous ones, this one is all together on a different level,”

— Mahima Gill, PU Student

Just ending

“Unbelievable, awesome; the visual effects are just outstanding. The movie does justice to the previous series and its sure to run houseful for weeks to come,”

— Amanjot Kaur, marketing student.

Final battle

“It is really heartening to watch the series come to an end. It was an experience to watch the final war between Harry and Voldemort,”

— Tushar Mann, employee with an IT firm.

Racy plot

“The pace of the movie was great. The script was strong. The wizard war zone was something only international cinema can create,”

— Vaani Malhotra, housewife.

Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara

The film has three stars in their own right, yet it employs them as actors rather than heroes. And though the film has characters like a possessive girlfriend, a flirtatious friend, an illegitimate father and immense scope for melodrama, it remains subtle and light-hearted throughout. Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara remains true to its narrative and offers as much unadulterated fun as the three boys have, indulging in untried adventure sports. The critics call it a rare and a fresh treat.

Starring: Hrithik Roshan, Abhay Deol, Farhan Akhtar, Katrina Kaif and Kalki Koechlin

Very gripping

“I could not help but be reminded about Dil Chahta Hai. Three friends, road trip and lot of male bonding! All in all, the story is still gripping and Spain is projected beautifully,”

— Aneket Vashishth, student.

New concept

“It’s a fresh concept of a road trip; a hint of both Hangover and Dil Chahta Hai. The inspiration is clear. Still, not bad,”

— Sonal Vardhan, housewife

Fun times

“It’s fresh, fun and a great script with amazing locations. The narrative is smooth. The kind of adventure the three take actually makes you want to do the same things and have fun,”

— Vivek Veram, student.

Mix & match
The exhibition - Monsoon Shopping Fiesta - on at Bella Vista, is set to delight the collector
Vasudha Gupta

Check out the vareity in Jewellery
All that glitter: Check out the vareity in Jewellery

The sudden showers could not deter the ladies of Chandigarh, who were there in huge numbers to check out the exhibition, Monsoon Shopping Fiesta, at Bella Vista, Panchkula, on Friday. Inaugurated by Miss Iran, Melica Amina, it brings together all possible lifestyle creations under one roof. Although rain played spoilsport, we ran into a few smiling faces who were all ready to set the cash counter ringing.

Between the glitz was a stall displaying Benarsi collections. Coming all the way from the land, which symbolises silk, were the manufacturers themselves. Bringing together pure silk and cotton tusser blends, the range is sure to watch out for. Moving to the lands of "Nawabs" is Riwaaz creations. The hand-made jallidaar dupptas are embellished with mokaish and zardozi. Also available are heavy dupptas in gotta patti and zardozi. Moving north, there is Wahida creations, who have brought the flavour of Kashmir to Chandigarh. Here, with traditional Kashmiri embroidery, stall looks impressive.

Dazzling in the light, colourful lehngas catch our attention. Hailing from Delhi, Neelu Madan brings a taste of her boutique, Harmony, to Chandigarh. Focusing on light range of Indian wear, her collection is rich and bright. Along side is Sulakshana, running a men's formal wear boutique in the same name. Her sherwanis' are different; from kalidaar to the tail suits, they give western wear for women a complex!

Also check out Natisha Bhatija's creations. She brings the famous dhoti salwar, a hit on the international runway. Worn with kurtis and shirts alike, the fusion concept is fast gaining popularity. If you are sure to don the bridal attire this season, the ceremony planners will ensure you have enough time to relax before your D-day. One-stop shop for all your wedding-related issues, it promises to plan your wedding according to your budget. If you recently got yourself a plush apartment, Al's and Jo's will assist you in bringing 'style' home with formal linen and cushions, along with German silver tea sets.

(On till July 18)

vasudha@tribunemail.com

High Spirits
Forest Gump
Vineet Mishra

A refreshing and soothing cocktail drink known for its remarkable taste and a fragrance so appealing that cologne has been designed after the aroma of the cocktail.

Ingredients:
n 1 1/2 oz Fuel orange vodka
n 1/2 oz Triple Sec
n 6 oz Cranberry juice
n 1/3 oz Lime juice

Garnish: Lemon

Instructions:
Pour all ingredients over ice in a cocktail shaker, and shake well. Serve over ice in a chilled Collins glass.

Cocktail Jokes

The problem with the world is that everyone is a few drinks behind.

Mishra is director CocktailJockey.com

Star track
Friends forever


THREE IS COMPANY: New York

With friendship being the theme of Zoya Akhtar’s Zindagi na Milegi Dobara, we take a look at films on friendship made in Bollywood in recent times.

Delhi Belly: Abhinay Deo’s hilarious caper based on maverick writer Akshat Verma’s script depicted how three friends get entangled with the mafia, cops, a funky journalist, and her ex-husband. Imran plays journalist Imran, Vir plays a frustrated cartoonist and jilted lover, while Kunal is a twisted photographer. The three live together and their bond is evident in the way they stick together in their crazy situation, the way they lovingly call each other names, and their honesty with each other.

Chillar Party: This is an adorable flick that beautifully portrays the friendship between children and a lovable stray dog. Directed by newcomers, the film shows how a bunch of society children befriend an orphaned car cleaner and his dog and then how sincerely they fight to protect each other.


GOODTIME buddies : Still from Shaitan

Shaitan: This is one devious look at friendship. Bejoy Nambiar’s smashing and engaging debut traces the life of five rich friends through drugs, sex, music, crazy night drives, getaways, jealousy, the blame game, accidental murder, and more. Most films show that friends stand by each other but this one will disturb you by depicting the shallow and devilish side in people.

New York: Kabir Khan’s political thriller traced the impact that 9/11 had on the lives of three friends: American residents Sam (John Abraham) and Maya (Katrina Kaif) and Delhi boy Omar (Neil Nitin Mukesh). The movie traced their bond as college students, the love triangle between them, and how world events tore them apart.


love LOST: Still from Kaminey

Band Baaja Baaraat: Opposites can’t stand each other and then they become friends who inadvertently fall in love. The same happened with Bittoo (Ranveer Singh) and Shruti (Anushka Sharma) in Manish Sharma’s Band Baaja Baaraat. Bittoo and Shruti set up Shaadi Mubarak and their company scales new heights of success. They fall in love, fall apart, and of course, have their own sweet love story!

Kaminey: Shahid Kapoor played a double role: smart bookie Charlie and mumbling NGO worker Guddu. They couldn’t stand each other. Charlie found a brother and best buddy in cokehead bookie Mikhail (Chandan Roy Sanyal). The bond between both the guys seemed genuine. The character of Mikhail and their friendship turned out to be very significant in the climax of Vishal Bhardwaj’s caper.

Wake Up Sid: Ayaan Mukerji’s sensitive coming-of-age film showed the bond that lackadaisical but nice Sid (Ranbir) shared with his college buddies: his fat girl friend and his besotted-in-love best friend. It also beautifully portrayed the unlikely friendship that blossomed into love between him and Aisha (Konkona Sen Sharma). — HRM

Amrita Rao, a proud vegetarian


WOW DIET: Amrita Rao

Bollywood actress Amrita Rao, a proud vegetarian, has shot for a new pro-vegetarian advertisement for animal rights organisation People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India.

“I call being vegetarian the Wow Rao diet. Wow because I know that being vegetarian is the best thing I can do for myself, the animals and the environment,” Amrita said in a press statement.

“Pulses can get pulses racing, while corpse cuisine slows you down. Kick the meat habit and you’ll look and feel better than ever,” added the actress, who featured in films like Main Hoon Na and Vivaah.

Rao joins a growing list of celebrities like Lara Dutta, Pamela Anderson, Shahid Kapoor, R. Madhavan and Anil Kumble, who have teamed up with PETA to promote a healthy vegetarian diet. — IANS

Prachi Desai with Emraan Hashmi
DARE BARE: Prachi Desai with Emraan Hashmi

Be sexy!

Prachi Desai has been roped in by the Bhatts for The Informer. The film also stars Emraan Hashmi, Jacqueline Fernandez, and Randeep Hooda. They want her to shed her cute-girl-next-door image and get sexy for the film. She has to wear sexy clothes and do dare-bare scenes with Emraan.

Abhishek in Russia

Abbas-Mustans’ Players, the official Indian remake of The Italian Job, is the first Indian film to be shot in the North Pole in Russia. Even in that remote place, people have heard of Bollywood and are fans of the inimitable Big B.

A source tells us, “Abhishek shot with the team of Players in Russia for a month. They were shooting in an extremely Northern region of Russia, closest to the North Pole. It was, obviously, freezing there, and the region is sparsely populated. Abhishek said that people residing there have little to do besides drinking vodka and smoking cigarettes. They have to do that to beat the cold.” Our source adds, “The people there have heard of only two Bollywood actors: Raj Kapoor and Amitabh Bachchan. They know little about Hollywood. They still listen to Raj Kapoor’s old songs like Mera Joota Hai Japaani.

Kate Hudson names baby boy Bingham

Kate Hudson
HAPPY MUM: Kate Hudson

Hollywood actress Kate Hudson has named her newborn son Bingham Hawn Bellamy, nickname Bing.

The 32-year-old has named the tot after fiance Matthew Bellamy's mother's maiden name.

The middle name is from Hudson's mother Goldie Hawn. "So happy! Just had a baby boy, Bingham 'Bing' Hawn Bellamy. Born on 9th July," Bellamy, 33, wrote on Twitter.

"Mother and baby are strong and healthy. Mum was a warrior, Bing popped out after 4.5 hours of intense pushing," he added.

Bellamy even went on to explain the meaning of his son's name, saying that the nickname is borrowed from Hawn's partner Kurt Russell's father.

"For those wondering, Bingham is my mother's maiden name and Bing Russell was Kurt's dad. Family connections all round," he wrote. Bing joins big brother Ryder Russell, 7. — PTI

Dating is like entering a shark pool

Olivia Wilde
HOPELESS IN LOVE: Olivia Wilde

Olivia Wilde, who is divorcing husband Tao Ruspoli, is scared of entering the dating market again because she is hopeless at it.

The actress, who has been linked to some Hollywood's hottest men including Ryan Gosling and Bradley Cooper, says she asks too many questions while on date.

"I'm trying to be an adult, entering the shark pool of dating. But I'm hopeless at it. I think of myself as being very cool and independent and not jealous, but I like clarity.

I ask a lot of questions. A guy recently said to me: 'Maybe it's because you were raised by journalists, but you really want facts!," the 27-year-old said.

Wilde also feels that being a celebrity makes dating hard.

"It makes dating harder. You go on one date and everyone thinks you're dating. It sort of puts pressure on this little sprout, and tramples it. If someone becomes involved with you, they know they will be photographed and written about and investigated in some way," she added.

Wilde also opens up about splitting from her husband of eight years, whom she married when she was just 18.

"The trauma of the whole thing has been humbling and for the first time I'm a little bit wobbly. But I think it's very healthy to spend time alone. You need to know how to be alone and not be defined by another person." — PTI

Sequel before original?

At a time when Bollywood is high on sequels, filmmaker Karan Johar wonders whether he should make the sequel to Student of The

Year even before the first film releases.

"With sequels exploding the box office...maybe I should make STUDENT OF THE YEAR 2....before I make the original!!!(sic) ," the 49-year-old wrote on micro-blogging site Twitter.

However, actor Abhishek Bachchan suggested to him to first make the sequel of Dostana before working on any other project.

"let's make dostana 2 first please!!!!," Abhishek posted, to which Johar replied: "yes that's a MUST!!! Trust me...I am all set!!!"

"Student...", a rom-com directed by Johar, stars newcomers Siddharth Malhotra, Varun Dhawan and Alia Bhatt in the lead.

— IANS

Suri will be a star

Katie Holmes with daughter Suri
STAR FAMILY: Katie Holmes with daughter Suri

Hollywood couple Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes reckon that their daughter Suri will be a great actress in the future.

Suri, who is just five-years-old, has already carved a niche for herself as a fashion child and is often spotted wearing high heels and lipstick when out with her parents.

"Suri's an amazing athlete, singer and dancer. I think she'll probably be an actress," said Holmes. The 32-year-old actress also admitted that Suri chooses her own clothes and that she supports her daughter by shrugging off criticism.

Farhan Akhtar
never say never: Farhan Akhtar

"I know what's being said. I am briefed. But I have to be a good parent in my own heart first. I'm not going to choose making people happy over doing the right thing for my child," said Holmes. — PTI

Try again

Farhan Akhtar has revealed that his production house has approached Salman Khan for several projects but he has turned them down, twice already. He hopes to be lucky the third time. Farhan has already worked with SRK and Aamir Khan.

Chatter box
Playing Dharampatni

Mihika Verma Mihika Verma who has been quite visible on telly but mostly regaled to second lead or vampish roles, has been roped in to play the sister-in-law of Harshad Chopra in Dharampatni on Imagine TV. The show is based on Mahatma Gandhiji's married life with Kasturba. Incidentally, Mihika was Harshad's co-star in Star Plus' Kis Dish Mein Hai Mera Dil too. It will be interesting to see the two actors together in a show again.

Historical role: Mihika Verma

Wikipedia rules

Kritika Karma Smart and sexy Kritika Kamra is not just good-looking but has a smart brain to. Currently on a break in between serials, Kritika is keeping busy by catching up on reading. We heard she loves to surf Wikipedia and reads about various topics. At times her search is for particular topics that catch her fancy or when in mood, she learns about random subjects too. Super cool!!

Beauty with brains: Kritika Karma

Work-struck Sumona

 Sumona Chakravarty Sumona Chakravarty aka Natasha Kapoor in Sony's Bade Acche Laggte Hai, is a different character. She not only gets angry at the drop of a hat but throws tantrums too. She expects the world to revolve around her, throws things when she gets angry. As the show is produced by Ekta Kapoor, rumours circulating in the telly world are that her character is inspired by Ekta. When asked about the same, Sumona reportedly said only the passion for work was common between Natasha and Ekta while Natasha's psycho part is all fictional.
Tantrum Queen: Sumona Chakravarty

Happy with fiction
Abigail Jain
Leading LADY: Abigail Jain

Rakshandha Khan has become super selective and is doing work that appeals to her the most on television. Ask her if she wishes to do any reality shows and promptly she replies, "There is way too much reality on television. The reality of my life is fiction." But she also has an answer for queries on her personal life. Is she single or dating, "I am happy," she quips.

For the youth

As Channel V realised their youth oriented show Dil Dosti Dance appealed and worked with the audiences, now they are planning yet another show for the channel. Produced by Four Lions Films, this show will be about a college going young girl's dream to become a renowned boxer. Abigail Jain has been signed in to play the lead. She last appeared on Zee's Dil Se Diya Vachan.

Down with fever

Priya Bhatija, who plays Rukmini in Imagine's Dwarkadheesh, is unwell. Priya is suffering from fever and even had bit of food poisoning. As the set for the show is in Baroda, she is missing her family the most. Though she is on medication, she is shooting as well.

Motherly figure

Saas on telly soaps come in various degrees of strict codes and Mrs Kaushik in Zee TV's Mrs. Kaushik Ki Paanch Bahuein is no different. But Vibha Chhibber who plays the strict mother in law in the show, is very much like a motherly figure on the sets. Being the senior most, Vibha not only shares her home made food with her co stars but also takes care of her onscreen bahus off screen.

Second time lucky

Shakti Arora
Making mark: Shakti Arora

Shakti Arora now believes in second chances as it was a second chance that got him the lead role in Zee's Sanskar Laxmi. Thrilled to be part of a show on prime time and graduating to a lead from the second lead in Balaji's Tere Liye as Tapush, Shakti hopes to make a mark for himself.

Talking about his role Angad in Sanskar Laxmi, he says, "Playing a lead is a big deal. I love the character of Angad as he is bubbly, lively and very much like me in real life. He injects humour into serious situations and though the show is full of drama, yet there is a light heartedness feel to it as well. People tell me they like the character and my performance and I couldn't be happier being part of this show."

He values relationships and wants to sort out the life of Laxmi who is his bhabhi. Angad feels compassionate for her state and has a soft corner for her." He refuses to reveal the future track which sources claim will lead to Laxmi and Angad falling in love, with Suraj out of the picture. — HRM

Noble ventures

Raqesh Vashishth and Riddhi Dogra
God's signal: Raqesh Vashishth and Riddhi Dogra

Television's most loved on-screen and off-screen jodi Raqesh Vashishth aka Aditya and Riddhi Dogra aka Priya, from Star Plus' late prime time show Maryada Lekin Kab Tak, has decided to go on the philanthropic path and are lending a helping hand to Raqesh's sister's NGO -Shyamchi Aai. She will soon start this NGO in Raqesh's hometown Pune.

Talking about the NGO, Raqesh says, "Yes, very soon we will launch a new NGO called Shyamchi Aai which will help the needy children and provide for their education. Riddhi and I are joining hands with my sister to help the underprivileged kids and build a better future for them. We will be sponsoring their school expenses like books and tuition fees. We will also try to spend as much time as our shooting schedules allow. Riddhi or I will go for their annual school meetings and keep track of their studies."

We wish Raqesh and Riddhi, all the best in their noble venture. — HRM

Trust is valuable

Parvesh Rana and Yuvraj Singh
Emotional co-host: Parvesh Rana and Yuvraj Singh

Yuvraj Singh plays co-host with Parvesh Rana in an upcoming show of Emotional Atyachar and shares his views on the concept of infidility.

Since it is the first time one is seeing you on a reality TV show, what prompted you to participate in Emotional Atyachar.

Well, the show has a very interesting concept, where in one finds out about couples and how their relationships can go wrong. I am inquisitive about the concept of the show, as it is a way to sort out their differences and a way to know where their relationship stands.

What do you think makes people stray in their relationships.

Trust is the most important factor on which a relationship survives, and if at any point that trust is broken its pretty much the end of the relationship. In addition, when couples are not able to communicate properly that leads to less understanding between the couple. However, setting other factors aside, for me trust is the most important thing in a relationship.

You must have seen previous episodes. What thoughts come to your mind watching the cheaters caught red-handed?

It's never a good feeling to watch the show down takes place. Somebody's trust has been broken which is never nice. Its never just about the couple, there are other people involved as well- families, friends and the society. If one learns a lesson from the whole episode then that's great and if not, it's their loss.

At the end of your shoot for an episode, what do you feel for the betrayer of trust?

Well, to be fair, we all make mistakes. If the person involved is ready to accept his/her mistakes and change for the better, then it works for everybody around him/her. Nevertheless, some people are even arrogant about the whole issue and end up not accepting their mistakes or making excuses.

What is your personal take on the show, exposing the cheater on national tv?

It is not my call when it comes to people coming onto national television to test their relationship. The person is sure in his/her head that they are ready to come onto this huge platform to know the trust about heir relationship. Everybody has his or her own decisions to make.

Catch all the emotional drama with Yuvraaj Singh and Pravesh Rana only on Emotional Atyachaar 3 on Saturday 16th Jul.

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: There is likely to be extremely positive, arguing potential for future growth. There is a danger that you may take on more than you can cope with, so be practical with your considerations. Tarot Message: Do what is right and watch your best interests. Lucky Colour: Yellow.

Magic Number: 56

TAURUS: Make good use of the quite morning, and you will be well prepared for the rest of the day. Be patient till things start moving in desired direction. Express your feelings and put your talents to good use. Tarot Message: Delays are the only obstacle in your way to success. Lucky Colour: Black. Magic Number: 38

GEMINI: The card "six of wands" will give you extra rewards. A female coworker could be jealous of your achievements. be sensitive and helpful and you may make a good friend. Tarot Message: Empty promises are certain, therefore try to put your terms and conditions in writing. Lucky Colour: Red.

Magic Number: 40

CANCER: Your card the "judgement" gives you strength. A strong desire to get out of your local neighborhood might instigate an exploration of other parts of your town. Tarot Message: Empty promises are certain, therefore try to put your terms and conditions in writing. Lucky Colour: Crimson. Magic Number: 33

LEO: Today you will have difficulty in getting along with associates. Plans are likely to be changed or canceled at the last minute, so have in mind something you would like to do as a backup. Tarot Message: Use careful judgment in handling issues involving property. Lucky Colour: Orange.

Magic Number: 44

VIRGO: You will have difficulty getting along with associates. A strong need to please might also make you vulnerable to the expectations of those close to you. 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

LIBRA: Today you are likely going to spend money on philosophical books. A meeting might introduce you to some very important people. Perhaps one particularly attractive person will show that you can mix business with pleasure. Tarot Message: You find within yourself a fountainhead of a will power. Lucky Colour: Teal Magic Number: 63

SCORPIO: The day starts with smiles and cheers. A romantic overture to your working day might give you plenty to think about while you go through the motions. Work is likely to become hectic later in the day. Tarot Message: Take responsibility for your own action. Lucky Colour: Blue.

Magic Number: 26

SAGITTARIUS: Meeting new people will bring delightful opportunity for romance and minor flirtation. Any complaints could lead to a quarrel, so make compromise and cooperation your goal. Tarot Message: You shall prevent a lot of trouble by taking timely action. Lucky Colour: Violet. Magic Number: 54

CAPRICORN: Avoid speculation today. The married will enjoy a pleasantly romantic phase at home. Be as cooperative as possible and make a special effort to help others. Professional advice will be invaluable in this area. Tarot Message: Don't reveal your plans to your competitors. Lucky Colour: Rust. Magic Number: 40

AQUARIUS: Don't rush to make any hasty decisions. Postpone plans for intimacy with your lover as there might be many interruptions. Home renovations or business plans can be reassessed with good outcomes assured. Tarot Message: Don't try to end the entire deadlock at one go. Lucky Colour: Grey. Magic Number: 33

PISCES: Students: park your vehicle carefully and obey traffic rules. Expect excellent news concerning finance after 6.00 p.m. Not all advice is reliable. Cancel this evening's commitments and get a good night's sleep. Tarot Message: Handle your projects secretly and carefully. Lucky Colour: Pink. Magic number: 27

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is July 16...

Your birth on the 16th day of July gives a sense of loneliness and generally the desire to work alone. This birth day inclines to interests in the technical, the scientific, and to the religious explorations. You may be emotional, but have a hard time expressing these emotions. You're a master of PR over the next few months and don't overlook the opportunities for self-promotion.

In September work relations could be slightly torturous and difficult. You need to have all the right equipment if you want to win your game. Family: Each day bringing some new and different challenge is typical this year. A liberal amount of spending may be surpassed only by the quantum of effort/energy required. Finance: You will be stressed out and some uncertainty will develop in your mind. Projects you have been working on lately will start to give out big profit soon. You will be working extra hours and the results will be astonishing. Friendship: You seldom show your emotional needs side to your friends but you may be forced to this time. Ask Libra, Taurus, Virgo, Pisces, Scorpio or Caps who are willing to pitch in. Health: It will be a good week to build up your stamina and reserves to tackle the coming onslaught of work. Socially, this will be busy period when you will be very much in demand. Love: Dealing with an unpredictable partner may stir up some insecurities. Apply whatever logic you can to clear up your own thinking and to express your feelings. You propose the travel plan and weather shall dispose it time and again. Compatible Signs: Capricorn, Lucky Numbers: 16, 21, 22, 24, 50

You are also lucky to be born on the same date of Mr Pawan Kumar Bansal (July 16, 1948, Tapa Mandi) who is a member of the 15th Lok Sabha from Chandigarh. He has been re-elected for the 4th term and presently is in charge of 3 ministries. He was one of the four cabinet ministers who had rushed to Swami Ram Dev for making him agree to quit anshan on June 1. Mr Bansal's horoscope ensures him more responsibilities in the cabinet before November 15, 2011 and his date of birth 16 supports the victory in the election of 16th Lok Sabha Elections.





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