Muscle power
Men would go to any length to have an enviable physique. Interestingly, it’s not to impress women, but to ensure their entry into the glamour world
Mona

Pumping iron for hours at a stretch, immaculate regularity at meals — one passion, no distractions. Boys undergo a lot of hardship to make and maintain an enviable physique. Just to woo the opposite sex? Nah… there is a lot more on their mind.

Cheena Nirmal, 19, has the body of a Greek god. Of course, he has worked very hard for it. BA first year student, when Cheena walks in to the college, heads turn and compliments pour in. But this is not what the scenario has been all along. Just a year back, he weighed close to a 100 kg and was nicknamed Humpty Dumpty! Until one day, Cheena decided to change. Today, he weighs 69 at 5’10”.

“It’s not easy,” claims this hunk. “I had to ignore everything, including studies, to get in shape,” he says. A walk with his dog at five in the morning to regular workout at gym and no fast food, smoking, drinking (not even Cola) ensures that he stays in shape.

Even for Chetan Sharma, 25, Mr Chandigarh, bodybuilding is firstly a way to ensure that he stays fit. The rest follows. With a few titles to his name, a small role in upcoming Bollywood release Bodyguard, Chetan is happy giving hours to working out and dieting rigorously. “To have a good body one needs to invest time, money and energy,” says Chetan.

If you thought its women that these boys are trying to impress…nah! Neither are women impressed. “Skinny men don’t look good, some flesh is required but no fat belly please,” says Arunpreet Sidhu, a consultant in overseas education. Agrees Jonsy Sethi, “Good looks are welcome in boys, but six packs are no requirement.” A model herself, Jonsy knows how hard it is to get a muscular body and maintain it.

The greatest inspiration for men to hit the gym are the celebs, be it Hollywood or Bollywood. Women might love Daniel Craig with or without shirt, but his bare act in Casino Royale in blue shorts inspires men to go for a body like that. “Boys often show up wanting to get a physique like that of Hrithik in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara,” shares Vikram Kapoor, general manger and fitness consultant Bodyzone Fitness n Spa-9. Eternal favourite remains Salman, even though men still can’t get over Aamir Khan in Ghajini and Shah Rukh Khan in Om Shanti Om.

“What they don’t realise is that these actors shot for a particular film or song sequence in a week, ten days or maximum a month,” shares Vikram. “It is just not possible to maintain those six packs forever,” he adds.

“In India, there is not much awareness but all around the world, people in general are conscious about their body,” shares Varinder Singh, Mr Punjab, Mr India, Mr Asia, Mr World and now in race for Mr Olympia. In body-building championships there are more females than men, he points out.

A pure vegetarian, Varinder is humble despite his achievements. “In my eyes whosoever goes for a walk in the morning or watches what he or she eats is a body-builder,” says Varinder, who’s making his Bollywood debut with Fateh — The Victory.

mona@tribunemail.com

FORMULA for top speed
Vasudha Gupta

Track details

n The 5.141 km long track is one-of-its-kind around the world, as it will also be used for motorcycle racing.
n The 16 turns and the 15 mt wide track will be a roller-coaster ride other than the zig-zag racing track.
n The entire track is techno barrier i.e it is surrounded by tyres to prevent injury.
n This is the fourth such track in the world after Singapore, Abu Dhabi and Korea.

The real fever for F1 will be at the Buddh International Circuit from October 28-30, which will host the inaugural Indian Grand Prix. And this fever has engulfed motorsport enthusiasts in Chandigarh. Willing to work out in the sun, without getting paid is perhaps pretty symbolic of the work of a marshal!

“It’s just pure passion, that’s why enthusiasts are keen on becoming marshals at the event,” says Farhan Vohra, Clerk of the Course (COC) for Formula 1.

In Chandigarh to hold the marshal induction programme for the upcoming F1 race, Farhan shares the details of one of the most glamourised event in the history of Indian motorsports.

Hoping to involve close to 1,500 people for the three-day event, Farhan decided to come to Chandigarh only because of the overwhelming response in Delhi. “Chandigarh is very active on the rallying circuit; it’s been a favourable response,” he shares. Associated with rallying since the past 17 years, Farhan is currently the only certified F1 judge for India at the moment. “I stepped out of rallying in 2006 and started officiating. It was in October 2009, that I formed the Indian Motorsport Marshal Club IMMC,” he says. Since then, Farhan has been the incharge of identifying and training F1 marshals.

The entire concept of marshalling for the F1 involves being the support for the drivers. Sharing his thoughts on the same, Vijay Parmar, president of the Himalayan Motorsport Association, says, “Since the ground work for marshalling is the same for rallying and racing, we are hopeful that those involved will be able to use their experience in F1.” F1 is set to raise the bar for the motorsports in India by increasing awareness about the sport. “We hope it will take the spotlight away from cricket,” laughs Parmar. On a serious note, he adds, “Yes, it will definitely create a benchmark. The quality of systems, communication, rescue and the infrastructure will be superior.”

A hard job for those willing to take it up, being a marshal in F1 will involve working in the specialised fields as a digital flag marshal, regular flag marshal, recovery marshal, fire marshal, track marshal and a rescue marshal. “For now, we have the basic training programme. In September, it will be specialised training. Since it is our first time in India, we will have specialists from around the world to ensure that everything goes smoothly,” Farhan shares.

This is the first time that India will witness high energy Formula 1racing. The 5.141 km long track is one-of-its-kind around the world, as it will also be used for motorcycle racing. The 16 turns and the 15 mt wide track will be a roller-coaster ride other than the zig-zag racing track.

The turnout at the programme was a clear enough indicator of the enthusiasm about the race. And, this time, it’s not only men, but also women who are ready to step into a man’s domain. Navpreet Kaur is one such enthusiast, “I have been following F1 racing since a long time now. I have no formal training but hope to get a chance to be a marshal at the event,” she says.

vasudha@tribunemail.com

BODY ART
Tatoos make for a cool style statement and Ludhiana folks have taken to them big-time
Minna Zutshi


Photos: Himanshu Mahajan

A feng shui tattoo on belly button…sounds like a rather unusual fashion statement? Well, it's cool. It's sexy. That's what girls from the opulent city of Ludhiana say.

"The dragon-tattoo on my belly button looks good and feels good," says 19-year-old Shikha Parmar. "But it was not easy to get it. I had to work out vigorously for six months to tone up my body. So, in case you envy my tattoo, don't forget the sweat that has gone into it," she adds. For the city's bold brigade, a tattoo on cleavage works well. It's a potent style statement; others who are less experimental make-do with tattoos on the neck and back.

"I don't like my tattoos to shriek out. The tattoo on the nape of my neck makes me look sensuous," says Garima Sharma, a college student.

Anklet-tattoos too are popular among young women. "These look particularly attractive if you have shapely ankles. But even for not-so-perfect ankles, you can work on the motifs to camouflage the imperfections," says Ludhiana-based beauty expert Indira Ahluwalia, the owner of Grace Beauty Clinic.

If tattoo art is sexy for some, it's funky for others who want their tattoos to be suffused with the fun element. "During a tattoo contest at our institute, I got (on my arm) a tattoo with a heart that had devil's horns atop it," says Girisha Loomba, a fashion design student at INIFD. "The tattoo was cute, funky and naughty," she quips.

Flora is definitely out in the tattoo art, so no leafy or flowery tattoos. That's the mehndi zone. Fauna, however, is well-received. Funky tattoos with animal motifs are in. "A temporary tattoo with a lion's face adorned my wrist for quite some time," says 18-year-old Martha Abraham. "I wish I could get a permanent tattoo. But my parents have their reservations, which are reasonable," she adds.

Celeb Point
What a man!

When you say Salman Khan, you are talking about a phenomenon…a superstar in a league of his own. Like many other girls, I have had a huge crush on him ever since my teenage days!

My uncle was a film director in that project. In our school holidays, we used to visit Mumbai and on one such vacation, we were told, my uncle was making this film with Salman Khan and the muhurat of the film was happening in a few days! Bas!! After hearing that, I was on cloud nine, daydreaming, how I'd meet Salman, how he would notice me in the crowd, and how he would say come do a film with me! Daydreaming of course but my tayyari was full on! I got a frilly fairy dress stitched which was in fashion then!

On the day of the muhurat I woke up uttered a prayer "Oh God, let Salman notice me at least!"

The muhurat venue was a crowded place and my uncle shouted action! Gulshan Grover came on stage! I was disheartened! Where was my heart throb? Just then in the midst of cheers and the mist thrown by a machine, a figure emerged and my heart stopped beating! It was him! In flesh and blood! Greek God!

After the muhurat I sat in a corner feeling sad that Salman had not noticed me. A car stopped right in front of me! Surprise, I saw Salman walking up to it! Before he could get into his car! I jumped up! Rushed past the crowd and landed right in front of him! Breathless, I muttered, "Autograph….. nooo…photograph plssssss?"

He looked amused. He then put his hand around my shoulder and I froze! Wish the moment froze too! But the silly photographer said, "Ho gaya! I could see his car in a distance and in my heart I said, "See you someday Salman for sure!

Years later, I met Salman on the sets of 'Veergati' as his co-actor of course.'

He would not know that someone there was hugely infatuated with him! He shook hands with me and said, "You are pretty!" His polite words stopped my heartbeat for a moment there!

We began shooting, I had a tough scene and Salman had packed up but he told the director, "She is new, I will give her dialogue cue!" I was touched! He did not have to but he did! Guided me and made my scene wonderful! I thanked him coyly!

Shooting with Salman was fun! He brought home-cooked food especially yummy crabs for the entire unit. We did masti on the sets! He was fond of photography and he clicked my pictures and the next day he gifted me T shirts with those photographs on them! The little things that he did, I knew he was different! A guy with a heart of gold!

Years later I met him while dubbing in the same studio! I just exchanged pleasantries and was about to go when he said, let’s chat a bit! We sat on the ground spreading our legs despite his bodyguards holding chairs for us at a distance. Over chai! We sat there chatting for an hour, with me wondering what a clear-hearted humble, guy he is!

Everyone in the industry loves him as the most helpful soul and call him Sallu Bhai!! Of course. I'd never call him that! Of course, he never knew about my crush on him but one thing I got to know was that I have a friend for life in him. A superstar, an enigma, a sweetheart!

(Dutta is a Bollywood actor)

For a lustrous mane
Jasmine Singh

Martin Smith
Hair story: Martin Smith

The book ‘Secret’ by Rhonda Byrne advocates the need for right thought, right desire and finally seeing it translate into real life situation. If only things were that easy, if only a thought about good, flowing, shining hair could be lived in real life. If only….while scholars explore that option, people at L’Oreal have devised ways promising to make this wish come true.

At Tress Lounge, L’Oreal, Sector-8, Chandigarh, came Martin Smith, Asia Zone director L’Oreal professional products division, Kerastase all the way from its headoffice in Paris. He talked about long, healthy hair and new styles.

Martin, a frequent traveller, sees India as an inspiring platform for L’Oreal. “This is the land of varied cultures and colours. Every place has its own hair styles and fashion. We as an international brand pick inspiration for hair colours and what will look good on Indians by studying them from close quarters,” he shares. So, what does he think looks good on Indians, considering they are always game for experimentation? “I think people in the north love the ‘black’ in their hair, but when it comes to colouring they are pretty much open to it as well. Copper, shades of brown and hair colours that shine are something they like to put on,” adds Martin moving on what brand Kerastase has to offer in terms of hair styling and colouring.

“Highlights are a rage with the youngsters. We have colours for the Indian market which go well with the weather conditions and the skin tones here.” Martin is in favour of a well researched hairstyle. “Why should anyone follow a style because we are asking them? At L’oreal we want customers to have an up close and personal experience with styling and hair colours,” he said.

Talking at length about the growing beauty market in Chandigarh he said, “People here are stylish, open to new styles and colours, which is why the company can think of expanding here.”

For fall-winter, Martin suggests styles which are easy to handle. “I understand the love for long hair with an average Indian. We are offering them styles in the same length. Colours again will be subtle with more earthen shades and burgundy.” Highlights will be in with hair colours also going through a red colour bar.

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Green Thumb
Small is beautiful
Satish Narula

Dwarf varieties are suitable for smaller gardens
Dwarf varieties are suitable for smaller gardens

Most of the gardening queries now a day revolve around the constraint of space planning. It is due to the change in the lifestyle and flat culture that the space available is small. And those who love gardening have to find ways to have a respectable garden. It is their lifeline. How to then cope with such a problem?

First of all one has to identify the space available for gardening. For this again, there are considerations like it should not interfere with the easy movement in the house. Also, the placement of plants should not block the already limited work area. If one lives on the upper stories, consideration is also not to let the excess water drip down. From safety point of view too one has to be cautious lest a pot kept on the wall should fall down.

In the cases where one is living on upper stories, most of the space is utilised by using walls secured with frames for hanging pots or the available floor area. Those living on top floors have started using the roof as best opportunity to place pots or even raise lawn.  But in that too one has to be very specific about the water proofing and load taking capacity of the terrace. Besides the top of the roof is absolutely exposed to the vagaries of weather. What is most important in the small places, however, is the use of dwarfing plants.

I am writing about this because the time to sow the seeds of winter annuals is not far. You have to do the planning now. The times have changed. There is a very wide range of annuals available in the market. Earlier, the dwarf winter annuals would mean the naturally dwarf mesembryanthemum (burf), candytuft, sweet allysum, pansy etc. But now you can get even dwarf dahlia, cineraria, marigold, antirrhinum (dog flower), salvia etc. For a change, try these and almost any other winter flower you can think of. Besides, you can also be choosy when it comes to the selection of colour for contrasting colours display. You can ask for the type of plant specifying the height depending upon whether you are selecting it for small basket or bigger pot. It would be better to inform the source from where you procure seeds or seedlings about your requirement or the purpose so that they can also arrange it before hand.

No doubt the dwarfing plants are good for those with space constraint, these are proving very useful in bigger spaces too. This is for the simple reason that earlier when tall plants were planted at the edge of the lawn, it would block the view while sitting in the verandah etc. Now when the dwarfs are planted along the periphery, they give the lawn vastness and open vista. Like their taller brethren, the dwarfs are also profuse flowering giving mass effect.

MYTH: Crumbling or puckering of leaves cannot be corrected by removing them. Such plants should be destroyed early so the disease doesn’t spread to other plants.

(Narula is a senior horticulturist)

Star track
Paying back in kind

Katrina Kaif Katrina Kaif has agreed to do an item song in Bodyguard for free. She has said she is very grateful to the Khan family for supporting her when she was a nobody so she is keen on repaying by not taking money for her cameo in the movie. She did Hello’s cameo for free too.

Fringe benefits: Katrina Kaif

Bald and spiritual

Shilpa Shetty has a bald look in her upcoming film, The Desire. She used prosthetics that took four hours to put on while shooting. She plays a monk in the movie that also stars Chinese star Xia Yu.

Charming duo

We can’t get over how adorable Shahid Kapoor looks in the promos of Mausam. He looks like a teenaged boy and is absolutely comfortable and confident filling in Tom Cruise’s shoes (as an Air Force pilot). Sonam looks nice but she doesn’t look like a Kashmiri girl at all.

A Force to reckon with

The promo of John Abraham starrer Force, directed by Nishikant Kamat and produced by Vipul Shah will be unveiled at IMAX Wadala’s giant screen. The film stars Genelia D’Souza. John’s physique and his stunts have generated some buzz already!

Esha Deol Family support

The trailer of Esha Deol’s comeback vehicle Tell Me Oh Khuda will be launched with the release of Aarakshan this weekend. It is a Deol family picture, quite literally and also stars Arjan Bajwa and Chandan Roy Sanyal.

Second innings: Esha Deol

Sonakshi Sinha All over the place

Sonakshi Sinha has a new endorsement in her kitty. She is endorsing a shampoo brand that is also endorsed by Bipasha Basu, Shilpa Shetty, and Katrina Kaif. She is its newest face and the hoardings are all over the city.

Brand new: Sonakshi Sinha

Keeping Mum

Prateik Babber Prateik Babber is a very talented actor but he cares two hoots about wooing the media. He doesn’t have a knack of talking to the media. On the other hand, the media is very mean and purposely rags him. He almost walked out of an event because media members were tormenting him with questions about his mom.

Walk out: Prateik Babber

Bol has a unique storyline!

Talented director Shoaib Mansoor is back with a hard hitting social drama titled Bol after his critically acclaimed and award winning Khuda Kay Liye.

A still from Bol
Hard-hitting: A still from Bol

Eros International’s Bol, in association with Geo Films and Shoman Productions revolves around the story of a girl, a daughter who stands up and challenges the age-old societal norms of treating women as lesser beings.

The movie stars renowned Pakistani actress Humaima Malick in the lead and singing sensation Atif Aslam and Iman Ali along with many other renowned Pakistani actors.

Critics who have seen the movie are completely floored at how the director Shoaib Mansoor has depicted the status of women in Pakistan and talks of issues like homosexuality and the life of eunuchs besides Shia-Sunni dynamics in a nation dominated by Sunnis in the movie.

The movie, which was released in Pakistan on June 24 along with  Double Dhamaal, has been receiving outstanding reviews from critics and audiences alike. In fact, the movie has been declared a super hit as it has received a tremendous opening and grossed about 49 lakhs on the first day beating many high grossers like Ready and My Name Is Khan. (Ready’s first day grossing was Rs 40 lakhs).

Produced by Shahid Jamal and Shoaib Mansoor, Bol is based in Lahore and aims at highlighting the sorry plight of women who are treated as a worthless burden to a family in most parts of society.

Bol is slated for an Eid release on August 31 in India and rest of the world.

Granny’s darling

Kirsten Dunst
Family first: Kirsten Dunst

Hollywood actor Kirsten Dunst says her family is the most important thing in her life and she hates not getting the chance to meet her grandparents enough.

The 29-year-old star, who loves to spend time with her family, admits that with time she has realised her priorities, reported a publication. “I speak to them every day. My grandmother lives with my mother and I worry about not seeing her enough. I love my grandparents. I can never understand why people put family into care homes. I feel proud that I’ve earned enough money to buy a house for my mother and grandmother. My grandfather in Germany was so proud of my Best Actress award. He was telling all his friends, he got to be the guy with the big news. I loved that,” she said. The Melancholia star, who lives with her younger brother Christian, said she feels “lucky” to be with her friends and family. “I’m lucky with my family.” — PTI

Bond With the Blonde

George Clooney
Fair game: George Clooney

Hollywood star George Clooney is reportedly dating a blonde former wrestling champion and American girl Stacy Keibler. The 50-year-old actor, who has always had an eye for Mediterranean-looking beauties, is said to have moved on from sultry Italian model and TV presenter Elisabetta Canalis, a publication reported.

Keibler, 31, has said to have caught the eye of Hollywood’s most eligible bachelor just two months after his split from Canalis. She recently competed on America’s Dancing With The Stars show. “I’m in heaven. Life really could not be any better. I’m smiling all day long,” she posted on Twitter. Keibler has been single since splitting from actor boyfriend Geoff Stults last year. — PTI

Words of wisdom

Harsh Mayar
Little wonder: Harsh Mayar

I am Kalam has opened up to rave reviews and changed the life of the film’s protagonist, Harsh Mayar. The film is his personal rags-to-riches story. The young and gifted actor talks about the film, Bollywood dreams, education, and Amitabh Bachchan

Bollywood debut

I have been struggling for a break for the past six years. I even went to Mumbai to try my luck in Chillar Party but could not make the final cut. I always dreamt of acting, singing, and dancing in Bollywood films. I watched Slumdog Millionaire many times. I wanted to do those kinds of roles. When I got this role I was very happy.

I Am Kalam

I play Chhotu. He wants to study but he belongs to a poor family but is inspired by former President Abdul Kalam so much that he adopts his name. How he achieves his education and success in life is what the film is about.

Love watching films

I love watching all kinds of films. Films have always attracted me. I love watching action, comedy, and romance. I am a big fan of Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Akshay Kumar.

Life is all about change

Everyone works for some motive. I believe through films we can bring a change in society as I have seen people get affected by watching a film and how fanatically we follow Hindi movies in India. So through my films I want to bring about a good change in others. There is no shortcut in life, only if you work hard will you achieve what you deserve. I have just started and have a long way to go.

On Amitabh Bachchan

I was quite nervous about meeting him and had some presumptions .When I met him he told me he loved the film and how my character has inspired him and he learns everyday. So if a star like him can learn everyday, we have so much to learn. He is such a great human being. I have not watched all his films but I love watching his classics. He is very down to earth.

Educational goals

I am pursuing my education and will finish it. I will never compromise on my education because today without education you are nothing and I know that. So I will study hard. I received my first salary after I Am Kalam. With it we completed our grandfather’s last ritual as it was pending because my father didn’t have money. — HRM

Chatter box
Hrithik the father figure

Karan Pangali
Idol worship: Karan Pangali

For most of the contestants of Just Dance—Hrithik is a mentor, a friend, their judge, but for the young lad from UK, Karan Pangali, Hrithik is like his father! The graceful dancer says Hrithik is the best critic that he could have ever had. Hrithik tells him where he went wrong and how he can improve on it. More over the Hrithik's look alike said Hrithik has helped him work on his looks especially his hairstyle and attire after each performance. Last time, when Karan was in the danger zone, because he had hurt his foot, Hrithik not only gave him another chance but he also told him that he should take extra care to avoid such incidents. No wonder Karan Pangali felt he was talking to his father.

Once burnt, twice shy

Shakktii Aroraa Shakktii Aroraa had an accident recently on the sets of Zee's Sanskaar Laxmi, when while cooking on the show, he burnt himself with hot oil, which splattered on his arms. Shakktii can barely cook in real life and now with this incident, he has no urge to go near a kitchen.

In a soup: Shakktii Aroraa

Ankita in love

Ankita Sharma the lead of Imagine's Preeto is looking happy these days not only because she has a good show on hand but also her life is shining with love. She doesn't talk about her personal life but admits that she has someone special in her life. He isn't from the entertainment industry and happy to see her on telly.

Aarti Singh Aarti to play bhabhi

After playing the lead in Thoda Hai Thode Ki Zaroorat Hai, Aarti Singh will now play bhabhi to Sameer Soni in Parichay. She will play Seema Chopra, a housewife and a mother to two kids who is plump but doesn't worry about her appearance anymore. Aarti is looking forward to this positive character.

New role: Aarti Singh

Adaa bags a new show

Adaa Khan The pretty Adaa Khan of Behenein fame has bagged a new show. She will be doing Rajan Shahi's next show on a popular channel with Waseem Mushtaq as a lead. This big project is called Amrit Manthan and was touted to be a sequel of a Rajan's earlier hit show but it turned out to be a rumour. The casting for two other parallel leads is on and the show will talk about importance of family values in today's society. Rajan is also working on a show called Havan for Colors.

Show time: Adaa Khan

It’s party time

Seems like the wedding track has worked its magic for Sasural Simar Ka on Colors, the show recently garnered a TRP of 3 and that called for a celebration. The cast and crew got together an organised a party on the sets of the show. Producer Rashmi Sharmatoo surprised the team with a cake, we give you a sneak peak of the celebrations.

Dipika Samson
Fun unlimited: Dipika Samson

An elated Prem aka Shoaib Ibrahim says, “I feel on top of the world. The climbing TRPs are proof that hard work and team spirit really works. We are a great team and this success is equally shared and celebrated by the entire team.”

An equally excited Simar aka Dipika Samson quips, “The good TRPs are a motivation for all of us. It feels good that our hard work is paying off. It was fun celebrating the success of our show with the entire team.” 

Roli aka Avika Gor smiles, “My aim is that the show should reach 6 TRP. We will have a bigger party once we achieve out target.”

Surendra aka Asheish Roy adds, “This was bound to happen, our producer Rashmi Sharma had promised us this. Hard working team, excellent actors and a creative producer- it is an unbeatable combination. And this is just the beginning. I am proud to be a part of Sasural Simar Ka.”

Mataji aka Jayati Bhatia states, “We had planned a celebration on the sets but we were unaware that our producer Rashmi Sharma too had planned to surprise us with a cake. Shoaib was fasting, so he could not eat the cake, so we had another celebration in the evening where he ate to his hearts content. We danced and made merry. All of us are still reeling under the effect of Roli marrying Prem and you can expect a lot of more drama in the upcoming episodes. We are trying to give a message through the show that one small lie can lead to a life changing disaster. Bua, Simar and Roli will now have to swallow their own bitter pill.” — HRM

Love in the rain

Ancient wisdom says when it's pouring outside, stay put in your house. "Says who," thunders Veebha Anand with a devilish grin on her face. Veebha plays the demure Laxmi in Zee TV's Sanskaar Laxmi and just loves rains. "I love the Mumbai rains. They are like watching a thriller, you never know what comes next."

Recently the actors and crew reached the sets of the show, only to find it flooded. While the caretakers were cleaning up the mess, Veebha decided to have some fun. She called her make up man Manoj who boasts of his riding skills. She laid a bet with him, "I am ready to be the pillion rider on your bike, if you take a spin around the flooded sets without letting your feet touch the ground before one full revolution." — HRM

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Self-employed and businessmen may feel like putting in a few hours to supervise property ventures. Conditions at home will be pleasant enough. Do not speculate. Court witness goes in your favour. The day will end on a low note . Tarot message: You need to act for yourself and for no one else. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 28

TAURUS: If there is work to be done and you feel like doing it, go right ahead. House work and chores can be handled efficiently. Help a relative with their domestic needs. You should be in a good mood. You have more freedom of action at work place. Tarot message: Focus on your goals. Lucky color: Violet. Magic number: 36

GEMINI: Today’s the day to do something for your pleasure. A close rapport may be developing between you and a colleague and you will spend time together after office hours. Not the right time to contemplate changing jobs. Tarot message: Don’t be dismissive of advice from young people. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 62

CANCER: Dreaming big? Yes, this is the first step towards success. Many of you have been working on an ambitious career project. Team work is the keynote of the day. Older people may create some problems. Tarot message: You will be happier if you retain the fruit of your hard work. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 56

LEO: You may achieve your goals and gain recognition soon. Stay focused on your vision as you take the last steps to reach a journey’s end. Consult professional people for legal worries. Love life is controversial. Tarot message: Infuse your efforts into decisive action. Lucky colour: Bottle green. Magic number: 59

VIRGO: Like a game of snakes and ladders, you should step down and need to retrace your steps over again. A secret love affair will bring you pleasure. Do not get involved in any land deal. Watch out for careless drivers. Tarot message: It is no longer necessary to take risks. Lucky colour: Rust. Magic number: 44

LIBRA: The Page of Swords reveals a good time to tie all loose ends together and take care of precious details with absolute perfection. You are in for a mixed day. As the day progress you will be feeling more comfortable at home. Tarot message: Avoid situations that may turn nasty. Lucky colour: Blue. Magic number: 49 

SCORPIO: Searching for a soul-mate? You will be able to make the right connection. Trust your intuition. All in all, an interesting and stimulating day. Someone you care about will see you in a new light. Good business opportunity comes your way. Tarot message: Trust your heart and intuition. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 61

SAGITTARIUS: The doorway to profound knowledge and insight may open through a wise acquaintance. Love blossoms at workplace. If you want to impress someone important you will find the right approach today. Tarot message: Do not let anyone get an advantage over you. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 31

CAPRICORN: This can be a day that starts calmly and uneventfully, lulling you into a false sense of security. Trusting people who have just appeared on the scene will be a foolish move. Go all out to improve your position at work. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Grey. Magic number: 27

AQUARIUS: Minding your business is a good choice. Live and let live is a good motto currently. Concentrate your energy and efforts towards concluding the task at hand. Women will have a relaxing day. Tarot message: Strive for perfection at work. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 38

PISCES: Life seems full of contention at the moment and it is hard to get along with others. The postponement of a certain deal could cause you anxiety. Love life will be quite intriguing. Your social reputation will improve. Tarot message: Don’t be too certain about obtaining a clearance. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 40

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is August 10...

Number 10 takes the lead in love and the chase is of utmost importance to these lovers. There can be self-centeredness, however. You maybe willing to experiment. Business: At first, troublemakers will try to denigrate your efforts. Eventually they’ll get into the spirit of the project and offer to be in partnership. Career: If you don’t want to miss out on any opportunities, you’ll have to prepare and plan all your duties and try to be super organised. Don’t trust new acquaintances. Education: You can change the stream from medical to non-medical. If you cannot gain control in the play ground, you should get out of the game. Family: You will receive good news about a member, especially, Taurus, Aries or children of any sign. You will have to shell out ‘extras’ if you have to educate children or have elders under your care. A partner may exhibit ‘odd behaviour’, Finance: Financially, it will be an extremely beneficial year. But cut your cloth according to your need. Don’t put off the important tasks. Friendship: Friends may have unusual needs. Bail them out, lend a helping hand and even a small amount of cash where necessary but draw the line. Let them ‘work it out’ without you. Health: Health condition will get worse. Eat moderately to keep fit, but if you try to avoid eating altogether, you are likely to have diseases like ulcer. Love: Entertaining at your place or spending some quiet time with nature will do more for your social life than going to a popular club or a happening party. Having someone over for dinner in your home shows your gracious domestic side. Travel: Some of you may go abroad, and that will be a new beginning in your career. Mood: Content. Compatible signs: Libra, Aries, Aquarius. Lucky colours: Misty rose, olive. Lucky days: Tuesday. Lucky numbers: 5, 7, 12, 15, 51.

Betsey Johnson (August 10, 1942, Wethersfield, Connecticut) is an American fashion designer best known for her feminine and whimsical designs. In 2008, Johnson was one of the contributors to Carrie Borzillo-Vrenna’s book Cherry Bomb. The National Arts Club awarded John the 2009 Medal of Honor for Lifetime Achievement in Fashion. She once described her style as a formula: “Take a leotard and add a skirt.”





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