Walk, pause, ponder… ?
Fight against eve-teasing gets a new fillip with the slut walk in the national capital. How do people in the city take it?
Ashima Sehajpal

Divya, Sonu Gandhi and Purva Puri share their views
Divya, Sonu Gandhi and Purva Puri share their views

G-strings never popped out of the denims. Cleavage count wasn't much. At the most, the 'bold' statement was made by a pair of shorts that rested slightly above the knees. The slut walk in Delhi was unlike the ones undertaken in Toronto, London, Boston but still put the message across effectively — clothes don't make a woman.

Those who think they do should read the placards that rallyists held - A gentleman is never provoked! A sexual offender doesn't need provocation! It's ok to be sexy but not a sexist. A skimpy dress doesn't mean yes and the Delhi Slut Walk, post the success of Bhopal Slut Walk, was an effort to highlight the issue. Agrees actor Mahie Gill, "By this measure, women who only wear ethnic outfits shouldn't have ever faced eve-teasing. Men make comments even when women are covered from head to toe. Those who have to, will do it any way."

The debate that began after a certain constable Michael Sanguinetti in Canada made the remark, 'Women should avoid dressing like sluts in order not to be victimised', has become a global issue. But when it comes to India, the issue becomes much larger. "It then includes atrocities inflicted on women, be it domestic violence, rapes, molestations, even female foeticide," comes from actor and social activist, Nafisa Ali, who took part in the Delhi Slut Walk. The primary concern of eve-teasing was however not forgotten. "Any girl who has travelled by public transport has tolerated men leaning on them or may be just rubbing their body against them. So, how many times, do we see women protesting against such nuisance? Slut Walk might give strength to women to raise their voice and make such men think about what they do." For the same reason, the Delhi Slut Walk was named Besharmi Morcha — asking men to feel ashamed of such acts.

Women's vulnerability does not depend on clothes; it does not even depend on the place. If they are eve-teased in the national capital, they are also instances that have happened in small towns. "A morcha like this will also be a message to a girl tolerating injustice in small towns," adds Mahie. She also feels that women wearing Western clothes do not give a right to men to be judgmental and a protest on the same model in various cities of India can help the cause further. That makes a Slut Walk in Chandigarh a possibility? Vibha Sethi, vice-president, student council, PU, says a walk like this in the city would certainly enjoy a huge participation from girls and women activists. "Men can't use any excuse to justify eve-teasing. The problem is not with women dressing but with the mentality of men. That needs to be corrected and dealt with."

Women protests are not a new concept in India. Women in Manipur have taken out naked protests against atrocities inflicted on them. Pam Rajput, director, Women Resource and Advocacy Centre, says slut walk is another way to raise a concern. "We don't bother about what men wear, why should they? We don't dictate terms, even they shouldn't. We demand a life of dignity and if raising slogans and a walk can help, why not support it." Popping G-strings has significance now!

ashima@tribunemail.com

Now, order your child
Are we ready to tamper with nature and decide the genetic code of the child we want?
Parbina Rashid


Illustration: Gaurav Sood

This piece of news may not be welcomed by those who pooh-pooh about men and women going against nature. After all getting a nose-job or a smile sculpted or injecting botox to keep wrinkles at bay is one thing, but having a tailor-made child is another!

Well, before you think along the lines of Adolf Hitler, who toyed with the idea of selective breeding in order to preserve the purity of the Aryan race, and debate on the validity of the Theory of Eugenics, let us break the news. It says now you can choose your sperm donor, which means that infertile women, who want to be mothers, will now be able to handpick the father of the child - thanks to a catalogue being compiled by the London Sperm Bank. It is a different matter that such facilities are available in the sperm banks, run clandestinely, in several towns in India.

Let's now confine ourselves to the London Bank, whose catalogue lists the personality traits, interests and even the fashion sense of the sperm donors, thus enabling the aspiring mothers to pick the father of their child according to their aspiration.

For example, one donor is described by the clinic as "softly spoken, introspective, deep-thinking" and with a "neat, relaxed style".

Another is: "Very individualistic, quirky and artistic in nature. He has a unique 'rock star image' in terms of appearance but not at all in lifestyle or confidence." It goes on: "Shy but, if prompted, will talk passionately about subjects that matter to him, namely art, music..."

Sounds like a dream come true if we had not heard the famous George Bernard Shaw and an Italian actor joke in which Shaw retorts to the pretty actor's advances saying what if their child inherited his looks and her brain. Cynicism!

So what to expect? Is it possible to have a dream child and are we ready for it? "Not in India, not at least till another decade because people who are going for artificial insemination are still bothered about details like the donor's skin tone or height so that they match up with that of the husband's, so that the process is not obvious enough. But maybe a decade or so later, when people are aware of the choices available, they would go for it," says Dr Mangla Dogra, a practising gynaecologist.

We remind her of the Theory of Eugenics. Is it possible to pick and choose traits and make a perfect child? "Medically speaking, no. There are definitely genes that are at play when it comes to the shaping of one's characteristics but, then, how do you explain those cases when an IAS officer's son becomes a school dropout or two very decent parents produce a hooligan?" she questions.

Coming back to the main issue, which is about the choices available in the sperm bank and the willingness of the perspective mothers to exercise those choices, we would like to quote Dr Hrishikesh Pai, a consultant gynaecologist and head of department, Fortis Bloom IVF, Mohali. "Most Indian couples are interested in basic information like the height, weight, eye colour and general health of the donor. And if you want to know about their educational background, you have to pay a little bit more," he says.

But in India where the sanctity of family is still very much intact and having a child from anyone other than the husband is still not a welcome thought, according to Dr Pai, the concept of donors is fast losing popularity.

"With advancement in medical sciences, now we have Intra-cytoplasmic sperm injections that make it possible for a woman to get pregnant even if the sperm content of her husband is low. Couples are opting for it, rather than going in for a donor," says Dr Pai.

Family value is, however, not the only one that prompts women to restrict themselves to their families when it comes to accepting sperms. "When I decided to have a baby I made sure that the donor is known to me because I wanted to know the complete background of that person. In the West it maybe a choice between green and blue eyes, blonde and brunette but for us it is a matter of religion and caste as well," says a woman on the condition of anonymity. Her statement may be politically incorrect, but definitely an honest one! Do we hear a faint echo of Hilter's "pure-Aryan" theory here?

parbina@tribunemail.com

Work hard at each step…
Mona

Anuja Lath
Role model: Anuja Lath Photo: S Chandan

Anuja Lath started her first venture in college itself. Over the last two decades, she has diversified and is growing each day. Chief operating officer, Red Alchemi, a leading firm that specialises in search engine optimisation strategies, this entrepreneur believes in balancing all aspects of life.

Anuja started with then her buddy, and, now husband Atul Gupta, an advertising agency called Pugmark. "This was when we were studying at Government Arts College-10," she shares. Advertising led to other ventures. This dynamic duo encashed the possibilities that opened with the coming of the Internet in 1996. "Since then, we have diversified into much more. Every few months we start something new," says Anjua, comfortable in her skin.

In a firm in which many things happen so often and so fast, Anuja shares what keeps her going.

Passion for your field: You are not doing yourself justice if you are not pursuing your passion. Love for the job is one basic ingredient of success.

Be willing to work hard: Once you have found your vocation, put in all the hardwork. It amazes me why the younger generation is not open to working hard. If today I am able to manage my work within just six hours, it's because I toiled when I was young. In my twenties, I have worked for 16-18 hours while also looking after a home, husband and two kids. In my forties, I still work 10-12 hours a day of which I spend just half in office because I laid a strong foundation way back.

Be honest with your team: No success is achieved single-handedly. It's important to share your vision with your team, and being open, honest and sincere in each matter. It's critical to have a team that you can bank on and vice versa. Also be truthful, which is an uncommon trait in today's society.

Keep a positive outlook: It goes without saying that ups and downs are part of everyone's life. It's important to keep a positive outlook. Consider the troubles as another roadblock in the path of success.

Maintain a happy and balanced life: It's essential to understand that you cannot ignore something just because you are busy doing something else. One will have a home, family and relations. Though it's not possible to keep everyone happy all the time, it's important to be happy in all these aspects in order to be successful!

mona@tribunemail.com

Par Excellence
Short Game - The Pitch
Jesse Grewal


The Pitch is a lofted shot played from varied distances which can be from around the green up to a full wedge shot. The main difference between the pitch and the chip is the position of the left wrist at impact and thereby the way the club hits the ball. In a chip shot the club is in a de-lofted position and the leading edge hits the ground. The wrist is in a bowed position at impact. In a pitch the left wrist is flat at impact and the bounce of the club catches the ground, which helps it to skid and slide under the ball and give the ball loft. In a pitch the hands will be in line with the club (picture 5) while in the chip the hands are leading the club.

The technique of the swing does not vary much with the distance. The length of the backswing increases with the distance. The downswing and follow through are quite similar. The arms drop softly to the ball on the downswing and the body turns towards the target. The hips or belt buckle are facing the target at the end of the swing and the right knee kicks in towards the left leg(picture 6). A common mistake made by high handicappers is to accelerate the club quickly with the arms which creates a chopping like action into the ground. The arms should let the club drop with gravity and the turning of the body creates the power.

To understand the length of the backswing, picture a clock with your head as 12 o'clock and the feet as 6 o'clock. With the left arm acting as the needle make a 7, 8, 9 and 10 o'clock backswing (pictures 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively) and measure the distance the ball flies. Do this exercise with your pitching, sand and lob wedges and note the distances. This will give you a clear idea on club selection and the backswing required for specific distances on the course. Half the problems one faces on the course is a bad shot caused by indecision on the club to play for a particular shot.

(Grewal has coached several national champions and professionals apart from being coach of the Indian golf team for the Eisenhower Cup (World Cup) in 2008. He is currently Director, National Golf Academy of India and CGA Hero Honda Golf Academy.@@If you have any queries get in touch with him at parexcellence@tribunemail.com)

Stress buster
Chuckle away the pain
Renee Singh

A good laugh relieves stress like nothing else
Laugh pill: A good laugh relieves stress like nothing else

"Just came back from a vacation and I need another vacation to de-stress from this one." I am only quoting another psychotherapist friend of mine who is back from a trip to the Bahamas.

Well we all seem to take holidays to de-stress of course but to take off for a trip that puts you onto a regimented regime definitely does not gear you up to unwind, and then we need a holiday to unwind from the holiday. Well so much for it.

Even relaxation is technique which needs to be learnt and then practiced and sometimes the mood is to just run away.

A holiday sometimes is a runaway but till we have not mastered the technique of running away on a holiday we cannot truly diffuse our stress.

Run away

In the physical sense of the term people feel less anxious on the days they are physically active than on days they don't exercise. Even when stressful events occur in people's lives in a study it has been recorded that they feel less troubled on their physically active days.

Researchers say that the act of laughter:

n Eases muscle
n Relieves stress
n Lowers the risk of stress related illness like heart disease.

Research at the University of Maryland Medical Centre have found that from the 300 volunteers they tested, those who were ready to laugh were less likely to have heart problems than those who were ready to smile.

Even among people with elevated blood pressure or cholesterol the ability to laugh offered protection against heart attacks.

I know it's not easy to laugh when things are not going your way but well. If you need to a good chuckle, just go:

n Rent a comedy movie or
n Keep a humorous book handy
n Sit with friends and crack jokes

Now with all these easy de-stressing formulas do go ahead and take a vacation, go for an exercise spree or easier still just laugh the stress off. Living in joy is the greatest favour you can do to yourself, increase your life span and increase the moments of joy.

Why exercise

It is antidote to life's pressures in many ways

n It is a distraction from problems.
n It changes the chemistry of stress
n It eases the symptoms of moderate depression
n It helps people deal better with daily hassles
n It burns calories and is a bonus for dieters
n It keeps calories in balance and that is enough to make anyone feel good.

(Singh is a Chandigarh-based psychotherapist)

Go easy breezy
Jigyasa Kapoor Chimra

Following fashion rule what goes out of trend comes back soon, palazzo pants and Afgani salwars are a throwback to the 1970s and 80s. First conceived by Coco Chanel the silken pjyama pants are once again in fashion. Thanks to the International showcase of the Spring/Summer 2011 collection where brands like Dolce & Gabbana, Marc Jacobs and Fendi’s showcased the more grown-up version of the palazzo pants. A fashion staple for many a Hollywood stars it was Zeenat Aman who made palazzos and Afgani salwars popular in India. And emerging as a clear winner, palazzo’s ruled the recently concluded Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week’s Fall/Winter 2011.

From Tarun Tahiliani to Niki Mahajan to Sonam Dubal, Manish Malhotra and Sabyasachi all gave us their own variants of palazzos.

While crepe wool palazzo pants formed part of an Orient-themed collection at Tarun Tahiliani, Niki Mahajan rendered them in chiffon and Manish Malhotra drew attention to the embroidery techniques of Kashmir, in a clever pairing of Anarkalis with palazzo pants, lending the former a modern, resort feel.

A daily wearer cannot be experimental. Ritu Kochar, corporate director, INIFD says, “No doubt the trouser shape of the season is the palazzo. And the best possible way to wear it is on stilts.” She adds, “While a high waist and wide leg might seem difficult at first sight, it is only our lack of familiarity with it that makes it so. But be sure not to shorten the length of the palazzos. It will only make you look like a clown. Your trousers should graze the floor even when worn over the highest heel in your wardrobe.”

For Afgani salwars they are a close cousin of Patiala salwars the only difference being afgani salwars are stiff at the bottom. Hailed as a popular pick, designer Rashmi Bindra says, “Afgani salwars are for the young girls. I don’t see it as a big fashion trend.”

She adds, “They have been coming in and out of fashion from past three years but it’s now that they have made a big bang. But with the wedding season and winters drawing close I guess they would be in fashion just for a few months.” Well who minds if they stay long or not till you are up-to-date for the time!

“Afgani salwars are doing well, especially in floral patterns,” says an employee of Good Things at Paras Down Town Mall in Zirakpur. He adds, “Though geometrical patterns are also available, but plain and the floral are doing much better.” Ask him the age group who’s wearing it and he says, “All, from women in 40s to teenage girls everyone is taking it well. And especially in this sticky season, these salwars have come as a boon as they are airy and have a lot of leg room.”

Star track
Gem session
Day one at IIJW ends in style with Jewels of Falaknuma and star presence

Jewellery brand Tanishq brought the curtains down on the first day of the India International Jewellery Week (IIJW) with an astounding collection called "Jewels of Falaknuma" that showcased intricately designed exquisite and enigmatic jewellery designs.

"This year at IIJW, we chose to take jewellery aficionados back to the rich era of Nizams through luxuriantly designed 'Jewels of Falaknuma'. Through this concept, we have tried to interpret the traditional jewels of Nizam dynasty in a contemporary-fusion style.

"Efforts have been made towards re-creating the Nizam rulers and make them walk down the ramp in a stylized yet edgy portrayal," says Revathi Kant, head design and innovation at Tanishq.

"Jewels of Falaknuma" was inspired by the unique collection of jewels that give credence to legends, tales and fading memories of a fabulously wealthy dynasty that ruled the Deccan for seven generations.

The collection paid homage to the glorious bygone era of royal patronage of arts and enduring craftsmanship skills.

The jewels displayed by models were crafted in gold and adorned by emeralds, pearls, rubies and diamonds. Some iconic shapes and motifs like the crescent moon and lotus were used.

IIJW, organised by the Gem and Jewellery Promotion Council (GJEPC), will continue till Thursday and will showcase designs of 35 designers and jewellery houses. — IANS

Happy in her space

Malaika Arora
ACCEPTING CHALLENGE: Malaika Arora

Malaika Arora, who has been working on her new film Dabangg 2, has revealed that she doesn't consider any other item girl as competition, as she has already marked her niche in the industry. "I've never really looked at my work as a competition. I've pretty much done my own thing, and carved a niche for myself," she says.

She admitted that there would be pressure on her for her post 'Munni' performances as there would obviously be a lot of comparisons, but she revealed that she would take that as a challenge.

"There will be comparisons for sure, but I'm ok with it. Challenges are always welcome," she added. — ANI

Dia's life altering moment

Dia Mirza
Reel LOVE: Dia Mirza

Dia Mirza has revealed that her life has been altered and love for cinema has been increased by her move to produce her new film Love, Break Up Zindagi. "It's been life-altering; it has increased my love for cinema. It's a wonderful opportunity to change life, in your own small way," says Dia.

"More than anything else, I think it's gratifying to be a part of a film from inception to the end," she stated.

"I do love acting and being in front of the camera, but the scope of creativity is so much more when you are a producer," she said.

"From helping with the production design to figuring out the wardrobe to zeroing in on locations, and co-ordinating with multiple departments to make it happen," she added. — ANI

Leonardo’s streak of violence

Hollywood superstar Leonardo DiCaprio is reportedly interested in playing one of the lead characters in Todd Field's Creed of Violence, a movie based on the unpublished novel written by Boston Teran.

The story, set in 1910, revolves around an estranged father and son trying to thwart an arms smuggling ring bringing weapons to Mexico.

The film follows the life of a criminal, Rawbone, who tries to smuggle weapons, but is caught and is accompanied by a government agent with whom he shares a mysterious past.

In the Bedroom director Field has been developing the project for some time but the representative for the actor is yet to comment. — PTI

Amy wanted to be a mother

Amy Winehouse
LOST DREAMS: Amy Winehouse

Amy Winehouse wanted to adopt a poor St Lucian girl and had already started the process of adoption before she died. The troubled singer was in the middle of becoming a mum to 10-year-old Dannika Augustine, who she met on the idyllic Caribbean island in 2009.

The Back to Black singer had already booked her ticket to visit the schoolgirl next week.

The child's grandmother, Marjorie Lambert, 57, revealed the singer had already hired lawyers for the adoption, but her plans were cut short by her sudden death last week.

"Amy used to beg me: 'I want to adopt Dannika. I want to take her to England'," says Lambert.

"Amy wanted to have a child so bad. If she had not died, there is no doubt she would be here in St Lucia completing the adoption process.

"There is no way she would have done what she did to herself if Dannika was with her," she said.

Devastated Dannika stated, "Amy was already my mother. I would call her mum and she would call me her daughter. She took care of me and we had fun together. I loved her and she loved me." — ANI

No honeymoon for Robbie's bride yet!

Robbie Williams with Ayda Fields
SUPPORTING SPOUSE: Robbie Williams with Ayda Fields

Robbie Williams has admitted that he hasn't yet taken his wife, Ayda Fields on a honeymoon. Williams, 37, married Fields, 32, last year, and she has been at his side throughout Take That's Progress tour, which wrapped up in Munich, Germany, on July 29.

"Someone asked about holiday after the tour. No plans whatsoever. LA will be all the holiday we need," he says.

"Ayda still hasn't got her honeymoon yet though," he said.

He, however, did reveal he'd managed to whisk his bride off to Paris for a few days before the European tour's final show.

"I've just take Ayda to Paris for a few days. She loves Paris, she kinda grew up there. I love Paris too," he added. — ANI

Chatter box
Playing grown ups

Toral Rsaputra and Leena Jumani
SISTERLY LOVE: Toral Rsaputra and Leena Jumani

Zee's Choti Si Zindagi will see a leap by the end of this week and post ten years, the little girls Isha and Ira who got separated by circumstances will grow up. Toral Rsaputra and Leena Jumani will play the grown up Isha and Ira respectively.

"Both Leena and I are very excited about playing the roles of Isha and Ira. The complexities of the love-hate relationship Ira has with her sister is something that I am looking forward to enacting.

Given their unpleasant experiences during their childhood, Ira definitely hates Isha unlike the latter who still pines for her little sister. It will be interesting to see how fate gets them to meet and what life has in store for them," says a confident Toral with a smile.

Mumbai girl Toral has appeared on shows like Dhoom Machao Dhoom while the pretty 
Ahmedabad born Leena has been seen in popular Balaji shows.

Ajay Bhalwankar programming head Zee TV says, "It's a natural progression for any show to take a leap. We were dealing with a particular issue while the protagonists were children. With them having grown up now, the dynamics of their relationship will change altogether. As kids, one saw both the sisters very fond and fiercely protective about each other. Now, one will see a different facet of their relationship altogether. We are sure that Toral and Leena will create the same magic on screen as Richa and Shruti did."

Living under the impression of having been cast aside by the sister she loved so much, Ira has been adopted and now grown up to be a spoilt rich young girl who has never really forgiven her sister for the 'wrong' done to her while she was a child. In the meanwhile, her sister Isha has reincarnated herself as the affable RJ Palak on a popular radio station in the hopes that her sister Ira will recognise her voice and connect with her. However, while destiny inevitably does bring them together, time has changed the both between them so much that neither one will recognise the other. To add to the mayhem, Sam too will return into their lives if only to put a wedge between them! After the pain of losing their father and being separated from each other, will they build on their relationship or go their own ways? Only time will tell. — HRM

Divyanka's desirable destinations

The beautiful Divyanka Tripathi who has been on a break since her show Mrs and Mr Sharma Allahbadwale SAB TV ended has been spending her free time indulging in one of her favourite activities - travelling. The actress who is all set to return with a new show on SAB shares her list of favourite places in India and abroad.

Bhopal

Bhopal is my hometown and it tops my list of favourite places. I love everything about Bhopal right from the peaceful environment to the greenery and the heritage structures in the city. It is known as the city of lakes and is simply beautiful.

Kashmir

Kashmir is heaven on earth. I visited the place when it was snowing and simply can't describe its beauty. I remember bringing home beautiful wooden and silver artifacts. I also purchased some beautiful Pashmina shawls. As for sightseeing I loved Gulamarg and Dal Lake the most. I have wonderful memories from Kashmir and would love to go there again.

San Francisco

The Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco is a wonder. It looks like the gate is an entry to the land of clouds. The slopes are beautiful and the houses are designed so well. In fact the whole city is well constructed.

Kerala

The places that I loved in Kerala are the backwaters and the Kovalam beach and both are drastically different. The beach waters are gorgeous and are a must visit place during the monsoon. Just hire a houseboat and stay there for a day or two. The place is a delight for non-vegetarians as the fisherman catch your favourite fish and cook it for you right there. As for the Kovalam beach it is a rocky place. The sight of the waves hitting the rocks is awesome. The place grows cloudy, foggy and romantic during the rains.

Mauritius

Mauritius is another beautiful place that I can never tire of visiting. I am always ready for a trip to this beautiful land of beaches. The place is perfect for a relaxed holiday and again it has some great non-vegetarian food to offer.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is known for its casinos but what I found more interesting is the theatre in the city. Being an artist myself I enjoyed the dance dramas at Cirque Du Deuel. I saw many shows like Ka, O, Reve and each one was a pleasure to watch. I would love to watch all of them again as everything from the performances to the lighting and production value was outstanding.

Orlando

I loved Disneyland in Orlando. It is one place where you will find both kids as well as adults smiling, no one can be sad in Disneyland. I turned into a kid at this place. — HRM

Talented host

Meiyang Chang
BEST shot: Meiyang Chang

Multi-talented Meiyang Chang, winner of Jhalak Dikhla Jaa season 4, is back to hosting. Chang, who earlier hosted Indian Idol, will be now be seen on India's Got Talent 3 along with Gautam Rode. Chang speaks about the show, the judges Dharmendra, Kirron Kher and Sonali Bendre and more.

What do you like about India's Got Talent?

When I started off with India's Got Talent, it was just another show for me but now I am glad that I am a part of it. I am proud that I am a part of the show. I used to watch America's Got Talent and used to be amazed. Now, I have realised that our own country can surprise us.

What do you enjoy most — anchoring, acting, singing or dancing?

I enjoy acting and singing the most but anchoring comes a close second. Dancing is my least favourite even though I won a dance show. It requires a lot of discipline and hard work which I am not averse to doing but it really takes a lot of time. Hats off to all those people who dance for a living, because it's a big challenge needs a lot of hard work.

Which talent surprised you most on the show?

There are a lot of them but if I have to choose since I used to paint during schooldays, painting still fascinates me. Several painters still paint with just their hands or with customised brushes that they make and the end result is fantastic. There is also one particular band whose lead singer has a good voice. I listen to a lot of music and can vouch that I have not heard such a voice since a long time. Another act that I can recall is a very young couple who performed amazing salsa, I have not even seen grown ups dancing that well. Besides these, there are some group dance acts and also some bands that impressed me.

Tell us something about the judges that we don't know?

In the judges panel, we have a caring father, a stern mother and a gorgeous friend. The three are very encouraging, especially the ones that showcase Indian culture in some way. This shows that they are involved with the show and in-between takes, there are some nice anecdotes from Dharamji and Kirronji because they keep talking about how films used to be shot during their time and how things have changed now and how they are moving on with the times. It is heartwarming to hear such stories and it shows a very human side of them which is why I feel that we have a balanced and friendly judging panel.

How is it co-hosting with Gautam Rode?

This is the first time that Gautam is hosting a show and he is doing a good job. He is very energetic and since he is primarily and actor, he brings a lot of innovation in terms of voice modulation and the kind of character we play in the show. Hosting can be monotonous but he brings a refreshing change with his ideas. We have had a good rapport since day one and it has been fun.

Are you working on any other shows or movies?

I am bound by a contract and can't do any other TV projects till I am doing India's Got Talent but I am in talks for two movies. If all goes well, I should start shooting by September. — HRM

Sana moves to movies

Sana Sheikh, aka Ganga of Star Plus Mann Ki Awaaz Pratigya, is getting positive response for her first Bollywood film Singham in which she played the lead actress Kajal Aggrwal aka Kavya Bhosale's younger sister Anjali. We spoke to Sana Sheikh about her film response and her experience.

"I am happy that everyone loved my role in Singham and my fans on Facebook wrote what they liked about my character-Anjali. Even my family members enjoyed watching the film and my character. Before the release of the film, I was nervous about the reaction from my fans and family but I am glad I am getting positive response and people have appreciated my role. Apart from my family and fans, even the light men, my hair dresser in Pratigya loved my character and most importantly the film." — HRM

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Trust your feelings and look for the silver lining and hidden values. A solid appreciation brings rewards. Do everything possible on your own before calling for assistance. Take yourself out of the mainstream. Tarot message: You are facing adversity and challenge and still holding your ground. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 46.

TAURUS: Romance may blossom at your place of employment. Steer clear of trouble and do not react to provocation. Dealing with in-laws will not be much fun. Tarot message: You will need to learn how to cope with success; its demand and its limitations. Lucky colour: Royal blue.
Magic number: 63.

GEMINI: A problem with an older relative can be sorted out. Romance wakes up and startles you into an understanding of your own emotional fabric. Relaxation and cruising are what suits you the best. An Arian friend will be supportive. Tarot message: Spend time meeting experienced people. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 32.

CANCER: The early part of the day is likely to be important. Leave stress, worries and cares behind and gently enjoy yourself. A good round of exercise will help you to iron out any pent-up frustrations. Tarot message: Do not refuse offers without seeking the advice from someone else. Lucky colour: Metallic Grey. Magic number: 27.

LEO: A small bout of sickness may creep in, but do not let it spoil the fun. Spare time should be devoted to creative activities. Expect calls or mails. Tarot message: You will need to learn how to cope better with success; its demand and its limitations. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 61.

VIRGO: The best day to contact influential people. Keep on the course that you have already set for yourself. This is a perfect time for family get together with a traditional meal. Tarot message: It is no longer necessary to take risks. You concentrate on projects only with reliable outcome. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 54.

LIBRA: Ten of Pentacles reveals that fortune can be made or lost in a fleeting moment, so keep your wits about you. Do not argue with people if you have no chance of winning. Superiors will be difficult. Tarot message: Do not divest assets or transact in uncertain matters. Lucky colour: Rust. Magic number: 65.

SCORPIO: The temptation to keep spending money has not abated. Try to give a small treat rather. Know your worth. Do not be impulsive. Encouraging news will lift your spirits. Tarot message: Resolve conflicts through discussion, meditation and understanding. Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 56.

SAGITTARIUS: Take care of your details or mistakes may prove costly. Keep receipts of transactions and read the fine print. Be sure that you do not transgress your budget. Routine travel is advisable and should be reasonably smooth. Tarot message: Beware of judging people too harshly. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 45.

CAPRICORN: Creative work must not be allowed to interfere with your budget. Beloved brings security, love and warmth. A brief business cum pleasure trip is just on the cards. Take rest and pamper yourself. Tarot message: Make a choice and then live with the outcome of your decision. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 29.

AQUARIUS: Influential people will be helpful in your affairs. Sportsmen should focus on exercise. Do not bite off more than you can chew or disappointment will move on quickly. Your pet will be a source of happiness. Tarot message: Don't be judgmental with people who have made up their mind. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 30.

PISCES: Contacts and networks should be a rich source of opportunity for financial ventures and educational growth. Sit tight on your savings. You should not allow yourself to be guided by friends. Tarot message: Don't be judgmental with people who have made up their mind. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 52.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is August 2...

Number two is the mediator and peace-lover. It indicates the desire for harmony. It is a gentle, considerate, and sensitive vibration. Ruled by the Moon, you will be diplomatic, warm, peaceful, and sensitive. If expressed negatively: too dependent, manipulative, and passive-aggressive. Business: Having a comfortable home is very important to you. If there's anything you can't stand, it's being surrounded by fragile objects and pale colours. Such surroundings make it impossible to relax and have fun. Career: Don't get exasperated with your anxieties; you will learn how to be calm. Get back a little faith in yourself. They'll feel at ease in a particularly serene environment. Education: A superior performance will lead to happiness. After you write the opening line to the next chapter, the story will unfold on its own. Your creative energies are high. Luck is in your favour. Family: Be conservative and do not allow emotions to open your purse strings too quickly. Spend on small necessities and then 'drop back'. Cover 'the basics'. Children, ill members and elders dominate your time and effort. Avoid allowing an 'emotional issue' to grow out of control. Finance: Financial condition will be good. Opportunities are in store. Unemployed ones may get job offers. An opportunity to start a new venture with quick financial gains is likely. Friendship: Friends who share common interests, especially community events and philanthropic pursuits may dominate activity. Meeting a love interest through a pal is highly likely and appears to be most successful with long range potential. Health: Your health might require attention during the first half of 2012. Therefore you should take care of your diet to be fresh and energetic. Compatible signs: Capricorn, Scorpio, Pisces. Lucky colours: Blanched Almond, Black. Lucky days: Thursday. Lucky numbers: 4, 10, 19, 34, 49.

Sam Worthington (full name Samuel Worthington) was born on August 2, 1976, in Perth, Australia. He appeared in lead role in the movie Somersault and it earned him the Australian Film Institite's Best Lead Actor award. He was seen in some TV shows in his country, like The Surgeon. Sam Worthington is famous as an Australian-born actor who has acted in movies like Avatar (2009). He performed in leading roles in a variety of low-budget films before transitioning to major studio films, ranging from romantic drama and comedy-drama to science fiction and action.





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