A complete ACT
Theatre director and actor Lillete Dubey, who came to Chandigarh at the invitation of Durga Das Foundation with Mohan Rakesh’s evergreen classic Aadhe Adhure, shares her reasons to do her first-ever Hindi play 
Nonika Singh

When someone decides to direct Mohan Rakesh’s modern classic Aadhe Adhure, a play written in 1969, the obvious query is why this particular play, which has been staged innumerable times. But when the director happens to be the lovely and vivacious well-known theatre director and Bollywood actor Lillete Dubey, the question why becomes all the more loaded!

For after all, Lillete has been known for her role in English theatre and for giving us memorable productions like Dance like a Man, Three Tall Women and Sammy. So what made her not only turn towards a Hindi classic but more pertinently to do a play in Hindi? Precisely, because this was a play, a NSD production, that she had watched when she was a student of Lady Shri Ram College, Delhi, and had stayed with her for decades.

However, if you thought a play in Hindi would be a natural extension for this actor of many Bollywood movies, she informs you otherwise. “It was a big leap. To do my first play in Hindi was a huge challenge,” she says. However, she was not weighed down by an urge to do it differently. She quips, “Here is a play depicting dysfunctional nuclear family, ahead of its times that I found no reason to change or adapt.” To the skeptical breed who deems it’s a done-to-death play she shoots off, “Whatever you may say there is a certain degree of unfamiliarity about the play at least to audiences that are under forty. In Mumbai the play has not been done for the last 25 years.”

Anyways, even if it had been she sees no harm in having a number of versions of classics, as they have in the West. Talking of the West, the lovely lady has yet another milestone to boast of and will be seen in John Madden’s The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel a story of seventy plus couples. From theatre to Bollywood to Hollywood it’s been a long fulfilling journey, but the restless soul in her is never satiated. So she is now toying with staging Zohra Sehgal’s story. Lillete speaking chaste Urdu on stage…but then ever since she began her theatre odyssey she has been motivated by the desire to bring forth original Indian writing. The genesis of her creativity, however, lies in stretching herself.

Nautanki family

With a gleam of pride that’s how Lillete’s young daughter Ira Dubey, the actor of movie Aisha who plays a key role in her mother’s play, dubs her family that constantly talks about and debates issues related to art. Being directed by mother dearest who is an actor’s director, she asserts is demanding. But theatre has been a part of Ira’s life ever since she was a child when she acted in her aunt Lushin Dubey’s plays. Her first foray with mother began as an assistant director for the play Sammy. Having studied theatre studies at Yale, she considers her training as a resource. Observation of human nature she asserts is the biggest tool, which no book can teach.

A shrink & an actor

Veteran actor Mohan Agashe, a qualified psychiatrist, who plays the “good for nothing” husband in Aadhe Adhure, feels that the psychological insights that one gains through the works of playwrights such as Mohan Rakesh are unmatched. He often uses the knowledge so gained in his professional life of a psychiatrist.

nonika@tribunemail.com

Break ke baad
Minnisha Lamba, in Chandigarh to promote a channel, says her upcoming ventures have a lot of variety 
Jasmine Singh

As long as you know that you are sorted out in your career, it doesn’t make much difference if you have no clue about the designer who has designed your dress. Sounds bizarre? Well, could be. We felt so when a journo asked actor Minnisha Lamba about the designer of her dress and she was clueless! Some things are not very important we guess; so, moving to important ones.

In Chandigarh to promote UTV’s official channel for Bollywood, the lady is all sorted out when it comes to career. This explains her missing from the scene for quiet sometime now. “I had a couple of projects in hand, which fell into different genres. I had to concentrate on them and I was busy doing that,” says Minnisha.

Zilla Ghaziaabad where she plays a desi belle, Joker, Hum Tum Shabana are some of the interesting titles of her upcoming movies. “Just like the names, the movies will be interesting. I have varied roles to play in all of the movies, which is something an actor looks forward to. You can see me wear ghaagraa choli in Zilla Ghaziaabaad, which is something new for me,” says the actor who declares her love for cars.  

Television, we are quick to drop the saleable word in the industry right now! “I am busy with a lot of movies and I really don’t have time for television. At some right time and place, probably I would. Right now I have to concentrate on movies.” The other thing that the actor is concerned about is the role of media, especially Bollywood. “Gossip is not the only word that defines Bollywood; it is made of interesting movies and loads of other things that the media should bring forth to the audiences.”   Just what the media needs - actors who appear from hibernation telling what the media should be doing!

Moving on, Minnisha is concerned about yet another thing – education for children. “I strongly feel for the cause. If children are given basic education they will change the world. I want to promote it in a big manner in our country. If I have time I would do that myself in some way or the other. ”

Last but not the least, the next hot word — Punjabi movies. She smiles, “I would love to do them once I get comfortable with the language. I wouldn’t say no to them.”

jasmine@tribunemail.com

A story to tell…
How about Mirage, a graduating play prepared by National School of Drama students that uses Kalidasa’s Ritusamhara as a metaphor for Manipur’s present turmoil, this Saturday?
Mona

Something stimulating is on this Saturday in City Beautiful. Prepared by graduating students of National School of Drama, New Delhi, Mirage is going to be staged at 5:30 in the evening at Tagore Theatre-18. 

Based on Kalidasa’s Ritusamhara, Mirage is a unique take that brings to the fore the troubled Manipur. “In a land where the sound of blasts has replaced thundering clouds, the season of rain has no story to tell. Every season is marred by the disturbed situation. Winter season loses its appeal as bodies of dead husbands feel colder to the widows. Spring gets unnoticeable in a land camouflaged by troops. “Out of their sheer longing for peace and order, people imagine before them different seasons of the year as described by Kalidas in Ritusamhara,” shares the 25-year-old director of the play, Loitongbam Paringanba. 

‘Mirage’ is an imaginative visual that takes inspiration from the traditional cultural elements of the region in terms of Ras Leela and tribal dances. Directed, acted by the third-year students, this play brings to the city the lesser known story from the north-east corner of our country. “The play in an attempt to share the sad predicament being faced by the people in Manipur in an artistic way,” says Pari who belongs to Imphal. 

Seating is on a first-come-first-served basis. More in city…Artist at work Another young artist is at work with his chisel at Kalagram. Hitlar Kumar Moni, 26-year-old sculptor, is working at nine by three feet pink stone to create transformations. Busy at the Open Sculpture Park, the artist would be more than happy to interact with art enthusiasts. “It’s a matter of pride for me to have my work among the celebrated artists of the country,” he shares.

Tribal treat
Orissa, once known as ‘Utkal’, is a synonym for excellence in the field of arts and crafts. Handicrafts and handloom products were the main stay of Kalinga Empire. Today the effort is on to conserve the rich crafts of yore. Utkalika, Orissa State Emporium-35, has recently introduced Dhokra crafts. Beautiful designs of bells, lamps, boxes, tribal figures, gods and goddesses are made using lost wax technique. The motifs inspired by the folk culture make these brass trinkets charming. Also, the emporium has reintroduced silver jewellery with gemstones on demand. While Dhokra knick-knacks are available from Rs 30 onwards, silver stuff is yours from Rs 200 onwards.

Rajasthan royal
If colours of Rajsthan attract you, Rajasthani Exhibition on at the Panchayat Bhavan-18 has famous Jaipuri quilts, bed-sheets and block printed material in malmal, khari gold as well as lehnga choli for sale. mona@tribunemail.com

Marilyn’s ‘kiss’ on sale

A baseball signed by the baseball legend Joe DiMaggio and kissed by screen legend Marilyn Monroe is up for auction. It has been locked in a box and stored in a closet since 1952. But this baseball is expected to fetch at least $ 20,000 when it is sold at an auction.

The ball symbolises the love affair between the Hollywood screen siren and the sporting hero, which made them one of America’s most famous couples.

The ball is one of 15 signed by the 1952 World Champion Yankees, which were then given to the players of a softball team who won a league organised by film studios 20th Century Fox.

This particular ball was given to sound editor Eddie D’Orazio and, following his death in 1969, it was passed down to his eldest son.

“I was only six years old when my dad got this ball. It was always in the house with us when I lived with my parents, then it came to me, as the oldest son, when dad died in 1969.

“I thought it was a really neat heirloom, so to speak, and something that I always attached to the memory of my dad - he was only 55 when he died, so it was a connection between us. I knew it needed to be protected so I kept it in a box in the closet unless I wanted to show it somebody, maybe once every couple of years,” said D’Orazio’s son, who inherited the ball.

The signatures and lipstick mark are still clearly visible on the ball, thanks to the care that has been taken to preserve it over the years.

The signatures of 26 other Yankee baseball legends also appear on the ball, including Mickey Matle, Yogi Nerra, Phil Rizzuto, Johnny Mize, Billy Martin, Allie Reynolds and Gene Woodling. — PTI 

trendsetter
In sync with style

Fashion is an attitude with the youngsters of today and be it branded clothes or street pick-ups, the idea is to look trendy. Those who carry off 'the look' are the real trendsetters and set the parameters for others. Charming Inayat Dhanda, a student of media and communication, shares her style secrets…

Your sense of style is …

My aim is to look good while being in sync with the latest fashion. Real fashion for me is what suits my persona and also what is right for the occasion.

Latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories…

My three pairs of heels from Charles and Keith in turquoise, blue and red.

Brand crazy or street pick-ups?

Both as long as they are stylish.

Your style Icon is…

Angelia Jolie for her dresses and Lady Gaga for being a trendsetter.

Who do you think is the worst dressed celebrity?

Mary Kate and Ashley for their horrible western clothes and Vidya Balan in her ethnic dresses.

Which look do your prefer - sporty, chic or glamorous

Chic.

One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension…

Multi-colored strands and pathetic nail art.

Your take on accessories?

Accessories are important. I love stylish footwear and sling bags.

What boosts your confidence level?

When I am comfortable with whatever I am wearing.

(As told to Poonam Bindra)

GET PHYSICAL
Jassi Oberoi
Glow like a yogi

Yoga and yogic exercises have become popular. According to some concepts yoga is the remedy for all ills, mental or physical. First, I would like to put it in perspective. Yoga is like a protective covering and a roof over your head which protects you from untoward circumstances. All yogic asanas are good for the body but some pranayamas are more helpful in weight loss, especially around the abdominal region. Today, we focus on Agnisar pranayama.

Agnisar pranayama: The main benefit of this pranayama is that it helps to reduce fat in the stomach and perks up the digestive systems.

How to do: It can be done by sitting in a Padamsasana or Siddha asana or it can also be done while standing or lying down. Breathe out and do 'Uddiyan bandh' that is pulling in the muscles of the stomach. Holding your breath, make the stomach move in and out. Repeat three times then take the count to 15 or 20 times. Those who have had any surgery of stomach should abstain from this pranayama.

Oberoi is a Ludhiana-based yoga expert.

(As told to Poonam Bindra)

chatter box
Out of order

This week Shreya Ghoshal’s team lost a worthy contestant in Sony’s X Factor. Sajda Sisters from Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s team and Amit Jadhav from Shreya Ghoshal’s team were in the bottom two but the sisters were lucky and performed well so were saved once again.

Headed for splitsville

Gossip mills are abuzz that handsome dude Gaurav Chopra and beautiful Mouni Roy have spilt. Gaurav who has been open about his relationships or talking about them is mum for now. He earlier dated Narayani Shastri and was seen around town with Mouni Roy- even on the reality show Pati Patni Aur Woh. Buzz claims Mouni is seeing the writer of Paa, Rishi Virmani. Gaurav is currently playing Rathore in Uttaran on Colors.

Time for a change

With Ekta Kapoor’s Parichay being the talk of the town, it is been given prominence by the channel Colors. To put it in the prime slot, the channel has decided to shift Mukti Bandhan to the slot of 11 at night and putting Parichay starring Sameer Soni to handle direct competition in the prime time slot of 9.30 pm. Producer Shobhna Desai’s Mukti Bandhan was expected to deliver TRPs but the unusual storyline didn’t generate the buzz. Yet it is commendable that the channel hasn’t axed the show. 

For love’s sake

Aalesha aka Sharbati from Phulwa is on cloud nine as she is in love. Unwilling to reveal her beau’s name, she says he does not belong to the TV industry. Aalesha also reveals that her boyfriend is media shy and that is why she chose not to speak about their relationship.

Playing musical chairs

It seems the makers of Sony’s Comedy Ka Naya Daur are changing their hosts every and now. After ousting Resshmi Ghosh after an episode, they got Shweta Tiwari to host the show but she is being used only as filler and will quit after two episodes. Roshni Chopra will now take over. Roshni is currently shooting for her adventure reality show Jee Le Ye Pal in Jaipur, so they had to get Shweta in the interim. After her show Pyaar Mein Twist, Roshni is looking forward to hosting the show as she has prior experience with the makers and the show. Moreover, Kapil Sharma’s partner Ankita Lokhande will quit due to date hassles as she is busy with her daily Pavitra Rishta. And Shweta Tiwari is tipped to be Kapil’s partner in the show. 

Getting lucky 

Recently director-producer Prakash Jha was on the sets of Aman Verma’s chat show Lo Karlo Baat on Big Magic Channel which airs in Bihar. Jha was so impressed with Aman that he offered him a role in his next film. Aman revealed the secret that Jha used to be a head chef in a restaurant in his struggling days. Prakash Jha enacted a scene from his upcoming movie Aarakshan in Amitabh Bachchan style. 

Not so sweet 

A recent study has found that adults who consumed high fructose corn syrup for two weeks as 25 percent of their daily calorie requirement had increased blood levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, which have been shown to be indicators of increased risk for heart disease. 

The American Heart Association recommends that people consume only five percent of calories as added sugar. "These results suggest that consumption of sugar may promote heart disease," said Stanhope. —ANI

the foodies
Delicacies from down south

Jigyasa Kapoor Chimra

Their popularity for serving authentic South Indian food is not without a reason, as some real good cooking goes inside the Sundaram's (Sector 26) kitchen.

As the aroma of South Indian spices and coffee beans draws you inside the restaurant, it is a pleasant sight to watch as well as savour the food. Done up in an almost South Indian style, the wood ceiling, floor tiles with rangolis, matte finished walls with floral patterns and paintings, depicting village scenes from Tamil Nadu, lends a South Indian flavour to the ambience.

Although S Sundaram, the owner, got the paintings done by an artist from Jaipur (lending it a slight Rajasthani touch), but who's complaining as long as the food is authentic and the ambience soothing?

Having started this joint from Sector 35, there is a story behind this popular restaurant, as S Sundaram and his better-half Uma Maheshwari were regular salaried people. And they started this venture with only two-thirds of their careers behind them. Though it's a rare success story, but it's the quality of food that has made the restaurant popular. And what more to prove the point then the fact that the restaurant owners eat three meals here!

Popular for their rasam, masala dosa and idlis, the meal at the restaurant starts with a complimentary rasam and papadam (well, who minds something free).

As the menu is not exhaustive, one can make a quick decision on what to eat. Though you can choose from several varieties of rice, including coconut rice, tomato rice and lemon rice; dosas, uttapams, idlis, upamas…we found the mini-thali quite enticing. It includes a regular size dosa, two idlis with sambhar, dahi vada, a kotri of sambhar and three varieties of chutneys. The chutneys are great for tickling the taste-buds. For the price, the restaurant is very reasonably priced. Even a student can have a hearty meal and will not be pockets out! A meal for two would cost around Rs 400. 

Southern delight

For Piyush Popli and Rohit Sharma, both IT professionals, if it is South Indian it will be at Sundaram's, as the food is not spicy and has a homely touch to it.

Their order: Mysore masala dosa and special tiffin (combination of southern fare).

Best amongst the lot: Their rasam is very good so is the uttapam.

Price: Reasonable.

Service: Good.

Meal for two: Around Rs 400.

FEAST on fast food!
Poonam Bindra

Located in Sarabha Nagar market, the nerve centre of Ludhiana, the scene at Hot Breads is true to its reputation - always choc-o-bloc with people from all age groups! And there is a variety to choose from - fast food, South Indian or Continental. The fast food is complemented by a fast moving bakery, known especially for the walnut cakes and fruit pastries. 

The latest add-on is the family cup cake. Says Harjinder, the owner, who also communicates with his customers through his blog, "Our customised cup cakes with toppings of the photos of customers have really caught on." While waiting for the pasta from the live counter we savoured the fried chicken - a dish with succulent pieces of bread crumbs coated, fried flattened chicken with coleslaw and buns. 

"We come here for all our celebrations and besides the yummy food we as students get a 15 per cent off by just showing our ID card," echo Mahi and Tina. To add to the Continental touch, a new chef has been brought in, who prepared the well-blended lasagna and veggies Au Gratin. "This is my favourite joint because you don't have to wait much," opines Amitoj Bajaj, who is sipping strawberry milk shake along with his fiancée, who is digging into chicken biryani. Another feather in their cap is the efficient and fast home delivery.  (A meal for two costs around Rs 800) 

Beer with us
Jasmine Singh

Some things are priceless. Just like a frothy chilled beer sipped at leisure, and a munchy burger to go with it. If this sounds something you would want to do, the Beer and Burger Festival at Hotel Hometel is the place you should head.

As Sabyasachi Chatterjee, general manager Hometel puts it, "Who doesn't like to have a beer, especially when there are almost 51 different varieties to choose from. There are basically two types of beers like Lager and Ale. And we are giving customers a lot of choice."

Light and tasty veggie burger, open-faced falafel burger, grilled lemon-basil tofu burger, bacon, egg and sausage burger, chili chicken piled high burger, lamb pocket burger, California burger, the list goes on. The combination is sure to work wonders on a hot summer afternoon, or when it is raining.

On till August 7. 

FUN-tastic 
Jihne Mera Dil Lutiya

Life is carefree and filled with a series of mischievous events for dashing and happy-go-lucky Yuvraj (Gippy Grewal) and rocking rebel Gurnoor (Diljit Dosanjh) at Punjabi University, until they meet charming and sexy Noor (Neeru Bajwa) who sweeps them off their feet the moment she enters their lives and everything goes topsy-turvy.

Starring: Gippy Grewal, Diljit Dosanjh, Neeru Bajwa, Jaswinder Bhalla, Binnu Dhillon.

So typical

"It is one of those typical movie made for Punjab. The script could have been stronger to ensure a better response."

— Mandeep Kalra, IT professional

Good show

"It's a good movie. Punjabi films are improving. The music is good,"

— Akanksha Dhaliwal, Housewife.

Love triangle

“It’s a love triangle set in Punjab. All in all, a complete Punjabi film.”

— Vicky Singh, Call Centre employee

Cowboys vs aliens

The Old West where a lone cowboy leads an uprising against a terror from beyond our world. 1873. Arizona Territory. A stranger with no memory of his past stumbles into the hard desert town of Absolution. And Absolution is about to experience fear it can scarcely comprehend...

Starring: Daniel Craig, Harrison Ford, Abigail Spencer

Action time

"It's a good movie if you are one of those looking for action. Otherwise, it ends up being very predictable.”

— Mohit Vardhan, student, PU

TROUBLE SHOOTER
Simmi Waraich
Face your demons one by one

I am 17 years of age and my teachers as well as two doctors have told me that I have ADHD-Attention Deficit Hyperactivity disorder. I do have a problem with finishing tasks and do not like to do things which do not interest me. I am doing well academically but because of this drawback I often end up doing poorly in one or two subjects and my grades go down. Do I need regular medication?

Megha Sairam, Panchkula

People suffering from ADHD may have trouble finishing tasks, are forgetful, have time management problems and often even relationship problems as one may not sit and listen to a friend or family member but always be in a rush or thinking of multiple things at the same time. Still people with ADHD also have a lot of pluses that other people do not and may actually be able to enjoy many things more deeply and experience life more fully.

Work on finishing tasks, time management or listening patiently one by one. Medication may help but a follow up is necessary. Making choices in life which at times may not be to our liking, is what life is all about. Such things may need to be worked on with the help of family or regular psychotherapy sessions. To be a more complete individual, all this needs to come from within us.

Adapt to be a caregiver

I am a 30-year-old woman who moved to the US last year with my husband. My mother-in-law was already there and lives with us. She is a patient of depression and now has become forgetful and has dementia too. It has been a big change for me as I was working here but I have to care for my mother-in-law and be at home there. I feel very low and have lost interest in daily activities. I feel I am useless.

Shveta Sarin, Chandigarh

First it's difficult to shift to another country and as you are not working there it adds to the loneliness one may feel in a strange country. Second you are the main caregiver for your mother-in-law and it is not easy to care for someone who has dementia which keeps worsening.

You have to first rule out depression and get help for dementia. You need to see who or what can help you. Start new things. Stay in touch with friends because it is a big boost. Read on how to care for a dementia patient. See the Mayo Clinic website.

(Dr Waraich is a Chandigarh-based consultant psychiatrist. Shoot your problems to lifestyletribune@gmail.com or write to Troubleshooter, Life+Style, The Tribune, Sector 29, Chandigarh)

star track
Sanjay on a roll

Bollywood's reformed rebel Sanjay Dutt is back in the limelight. The actor who is happily married to Maanayata is enjoying fatherhood with his twins.

Sanjay's film Rascals will release next month and he will soon start promoting the film too. One thing is there which the actor doesn't want to talk about and he only wants to concentrate on acting and films. When asked about politics, he said, "Let's talk only about films, please don't talk about politics with me. I will never think of getting back to politics ever again. It's not my thing," he admitted.

Like acting, politics also runs in his blood, "Yes, but my sister is leaving it and she is better at it than me. I have been to UP for three months. After seeing all the tamasha, I think acting in Bollywood is better than the acting on the dais. So I have chosen films," he says.

Apart from films we are also hearing stories about Sanju baba and Shah Rukh Khan's friendship. He says, "SRK is like family. I can invite him anytime I want. We have been in this industry since so long and we all are part of a big family."

When asked about the recent fight he had with Salman Khan, he shots back, "These are all rumours as I shot with him the very next day for Bigg Boss 5. Even if Salman and I had a fight ever it would be like a fight between brothers. I know him since a long time. When I was almost established as an actor, Salman was grooming himself to become an actor. So we have come to a long way while working with each other."

Sanjay will make his debut on television with Bigg Boss 5. He quips, "I am quite nervous but Salman is there with me to make me comfortable and we will start shooting soon."

Sanjay's home production Rascals releases on October. He has almost finished shooting for Agneepath. He will begin shooting for Power and Department by the end of the year. — HRM

Up, close & personal with Rohit Shetty

Rohit Shetty’s detour from comedy, action film Singham starring his favourite star Ajay Devgn, is doing very well at cinema houses across the nation. The director talks about the other films he is making and the people he is working with.

Bol Bachchan

Bol Bachchan is a remake of the original Golmaal, starring Amol Palekar and Uttpal Dutt. Believe me, we have changed a lot of things, as we didn’t want to touch the actual humour of the film. No one can beat the actors who did the film. So, the script has been twisted, and it stars Ajay Devgn, Abhishek Bachchan, Asin and Prachi Desai in it. It’s a light-hearted comedy.

Angoor on way

I have met SRK a few times, but nothing has been finalised yet. I have also heard rumours that I am planning to cast Ranbir Kapoor in Angoor, but let me clear the air that I didn’t meet Ranbir for any script, so the question of making a film with him doesn’t arise at all. Even with SRK, nothing has been finalised, and I can’t comment at all.

Sharing vision

Ajay and I share a great bond, so which ever film I choose, Ajay always remains in my mind. Ajay and I share the same vision. Our main motive is to entertain our audience so, I guess, that’s what clicks the most between us. Even Singham, which is an action film, did well with the audience. You know, our audience wants to see a variety of films, and especially, masaledar action films. We are starting work on our next film Bol Bachchan next month, and Ajay knows everything about it, so it becomes easy to shoot the film. Our chemistry is evident in our films.

Akshay to SRK

I want to work with as many actors as I can: from Ajay to Akshay to SRK. I am sure I will. If I make another action film, both Akshay and Ajay will star in it, as no one does action better than them.

Singham 2

I don’t mind even starting a franchise of Singham but, for me, the script should be proper and my audience should like it. Unless and until I find a better script, I can’t comment on it

Rise and shine

Freida Pinto poses at the premiere of Rise of the Planet of the Apes at the Grauman's Chinese theatre in Hollywood, California. —Reuters

 

Stars spotted

Alvira Khan Agnihotri, Arpita Khan and their mother Salma Khan were spotted at Siddhivinayak Temple in South Mumbai. They were simply dressed. Were they praying for Sallu’s flick? Salman is on a hit spree and the success of the Eid-Ganpati release is imminent.

Great.One!

Sanjay Dutt is doing a cameo in Shah Rukh Khan’s Ra.One. He has shot for it already. Priyanka Chopra is also doing a cameo in the anticipated blockbuster.

Love-hate relation

Anushka Sharma appears on this week’s episode of Simi Selects India’s Most Desirable. She has said that she is very fond of Ranveer Singh and finds him attractive. However, they both are very different people who are so volatile that they could kill each other. She said she needs to be with a man who is calm.

Dad’s the way to go

Pitt, who has three adopted and three biological children with Jolie, says initially he was reluctant to play the role of a less than perfect father in the movie. “I was a little hesitant about playing the oppressive father, but I felt the story was important. I think about everything I do now, what my kids are going to see, how they’re going to feel. But I think they know me as a father, I hope they would just think I’m a pretty good actor,” Pitt, who plays a father living in the Texas of 50s, says about his character. Pitt believes that the film, which does not have the typical packaging of a Hollywood movie, will surprise his fans. “I was surprised by the structure. I thought it was quite ingenious. This marriage with the micro and the macro I found most interesting, he tells this micro story of this family in this small town in Texas. There seems to be some parallel truths in that,” says Pitt. — PTI

Twin package

Ameesha Patel has signed on director Priyadarshan for the second film of her production house. Her first film is being directed by David Dhawan. She will play the leading lady in both films and she knows her famous directors and their comedies will ensure a good response. We hope so! The woman looks hot! She is a decent actress but wrong choices ruined her career.

Ash turns down Sanjay 

The role of the female lead in the remake of Satte Pe Satta, produced by Sanjay Dutt, was turned down by Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Vidya Balan. He has approached Karisma Kapur and she is very keen on doing the film. She is superb at comedy and a splendid actress. We hope she takes it up.

Fitness comes first

Vivek Oberoi is going to Wai to shoot for Zilla Ghaziabad, a film on gangsters and corrupt cops. He has sent his trainer ahead to arrange for fitness equipment at the hotel where he is staying. He needs to get fit and lean for Krrishh 2. He plays the villain in it. 

green thumb
satish narula
Cold cut

The winter is the favourite time for the gardeners as he gets an opportunity to grow a wide range of winter annuals. In the summer, the number of seasonal flowering species is too small. Likewise, the winter is the time when the range of vegetables that can be grown is wide and gardeners have choices.

This is the time when one can grow radish, turnip, carrot, cauliflower, cabbage, knol-khol, peas, palak, methi etc. This is also the suitable time to go in for exotic vegetables like celery, parsley, baby corn, Brussel's sprout, red cabbage, Chinese cabbage etc. 

What is, however, important is to understand about their growing. Most of the gardeners complaints that even if they are adding all the nutrition, still the results are not to their expectations. The problem, however, is that either we add too much nutrition or too much water or they are grown in shade. The winter vegetables need plenty of sun as the day length is already very short. In case of root vegetables, use of manure which is not properly rotten could spell trouble. In case of peas, the over watering may kill the plants. It needs very less water. The first watering is done 15 days after sowing in soil which is at optimum moisture conditions. The second time it is done during flowering. In whole of lifespan peas need watering hardly two to three times. 

It is better to grow root crops like radish, turnip and carrot etc at ridges. Like peas, the carrot also requires very less water. When grown in rich soils in flat beds and given more water they put forth more of the vegetative growth. These should, therefore, be raised on ridges, given proper thinning and less watering.

In case of cauliflower, cabbage, knol-khol etc, make sure these are raised in the full sun. Another main consideration is the selection of varieties. The failure is mostly when late season varieties are grown early and vise-versa. It is because of this reason that the curd fails to form in cauliflowers. When the curd in cauliflower and head in cabbage are ready for harvesting, remove the whole plant and do not leave any stub behind. This becomes the breeding place for insects and diseases.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu
If your birthday is July 30...

You are outgoing, happy, kind and generous, self-expressive, intelligent and broad minded. You are very attractive and your animal magnetism draws a large number of people towards you. Though you have a busy social life, you take your professional responsibilities seriously and people find you extremely reliable and trustworthy. You have great potential; don`t fritter it away. You are generous and optimistic with a spiritual bend of mind. The number 3 is governed by the Planet Jupiter and those born under it are lovers of morality, justice, mercy and pure love. You are naturally attracted to people born between June 21 and July 20, between October 21 and November 20. You also have an affinity for those governed by the numbers 3, 6, 7 and 9. You will be lucky in financial matters and will get plenty of opportunities for career advancement. Being a Leo, you have a sunny disposition, honest, loyal, and possess the spirit of self-sacrifice. Working behind the scenes isn’t very appealing you would normally prefer to take the centerstage. You enjoy being the boss. You make a good role model since your signature qualities are leadership, truth and justice Family: Sort issues carefully before disciplining or continuing, especially with Libra, Cancer, Scorpio, Taurus. Friendship: Friends may have a need to be bailed out of situations. Health:Your health might require your attention during the first half of November. Love: When it comes to love, you are extremely demanding. Put yourself in a forgiving mood or keep quiet if you don’t want to rock the relationship boat. Romance comes when you let go of your inhibitions.Travel: Finding new ways to think about old problems leads to a surprising solutions during your travels at the beginning of the week, especially when you give your emotions a little room to work themselves out. Mood: Filled with strong insight. Compatible signs: Capricorn, Libra. Lucky colors: White, red, yellow. Lucky days: Wednesday and Friday. Lucky numbers: 3, 30, 45, 90.

Sonu Nigam (July 30, 1973 , Faridabad,) featured in numerous Bollywood and Kannada movies. Sonu’s acting career started as a child artiste in a number of films, including Betaab. Sonu started hosting Sa Re Ga Ma Pa a television singing talent competition, Besides Sa Re Ga Ma, Sonu Nigam has also hosted the TV show Kisme Kitna Hai Dum .He has not taken up acting since his last venture Love in Nepal. He recently changed the spelling of his last name from ‘Nigam’ to ‘Niigaam’ in accordance with numerology. Astrologically he will be outstanding in singing than acting.

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Those who are more spiritually inclined or who want to stay calm are in search of solitude. Love life is passing through a rough phase. Businessmen have a tricky day. The married will buy a piece of jewellery for their spouse. Tarot message: Think before taking any action. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 42.

TAURUS: Progress in your profession and business is indicated. Be wary of a situation where you can make a mistake in haste. You will inevitably repent later. Distant affairs will become more favourable as the day progress. Tarot message: Do not let anyone get the advantage over you. Lucky colour: Bottle Green. Magic number: 25.

GEMINI: A romantic interest is on the cards. If you have a lover, this is the day to treat them with a generous gift. Fortune can smile on you from the least expected sources. Money will be very important today. Tarot message: Don’t be too certain about getting a clearance. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 38.

CANCER: An unexpected bonus could appear in your paycheck as a raise may be in the offing. Enjoy being noticed and acknowledged. Contact your parents if you have not called or seen them lately. Tarot message: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 29.

LEO: Household task can be done in record time. Speculation would be most unwise. No problem should arise in romance. Models: admirers will follow you but be careful. You will feel great with your renewed energy. Tarot message: Capitalise on your strength and do not trust others. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 60.

VIRGO: You will be popular with both the sexes today. A level of stress may be building, especially if financial issues are weighing on your mind. You may be feeling vulnerable to the criticism of friends. Tarot message: Focus on better to mitigate the bitter. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 59.

LIBRA: Many of you will scurry to be on time, frantically trying to complete all the tasks on full to-do lists before the day is out. Make extra efforts to conclude pending projects. Secrecy of plans will help you at place of work. Tarot message: Impatience will lead to failure. Lucky color: Cream. Magic Number: 54.

SCORPIO: Caring conversations and heart-to-heart talks flow easily. This is a good day for both buying & selling property. Stick to what you know. Cool down with water sports such as swimming, sailing or surfing. Tarot message: Unfinished business will unleash new problems. Lucky colour: Grey. Magic number: 39.

SAGITTARIUS: Senior beuracrats should focus on secret files & documents. Married will enjoy evening in a different way. If possible get a dose of fresh air. Feeling fit can only add to your confidence. Tarot message: You need to cultivate understanding & humility. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 63.

CAPRICORN: Differences of opinion within the family could reach a boiling point. Bright day for intellectuals, writers, advocates and astrologers. Love life runs into trouble. Tarot message: If you are tempted to travel overseas don’t waste money by financing the trip yourself. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 27.

AQUARIUS: If you are not okay about a relationship, finance or career issues, take positive action rather than stewing about it. The employed will have to work overtime. Keep a low profile. Tarot message: Dare to accomplish those tasks which normally take up a lot of time. Lucky colour: Camel. Magic number: 40.

PISCES: You win over an enemy. Family life is charged with tension. Financially the first half of the day is rather expensive. Keep cool and maintain a low profile. A health crisis might strike. Tarot message: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far. Lucky colour: Mauve. Magic number: 49.





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