Noteworthy
Members of Delhi-based band Manthan, in Chandigarh for a show, share how they do not believe in ‘confusing’ music
Jasmine Singh

This is for those who make music and those who swear their allegiance to it — can you pass off anything in the name of music? Certainly not, the echo is loud and clear. You can't tweak, scramble or mash anything in the name of music. What say? Members of Delhi-based band Manthan, in Chandigarh to perform at Monte Carlo's fashion show nod their heads in approval. Their mantra in clear —fusion, but no confusion.

The five-member band Imran Khan (vocalist), Vikrant Mohan Samrat and Ish Anad (guitarists), Nikhil Bajaj (base guitarist) and Virender (keyboard), readying for their live performance at Sector-17, explain their mantra. While they miss their lead vocalist Imran Khan, who could not make it due to his father's demise, the band follows the law of nature — the show must go on. Sure it does with a discussion on what should and should not be categorised as music.

Samrat Chaterjee, drummer, percussionist and the founder member of Manthan, defines his band as being a fusion family. He explains, "Unlike many other bands that confuse; we simply fuse," he smiles explaining, "We are a band that fuses traditional notes, picking Western notes as well. We believe in experimenting and not categorsising music into any one genre." A diversion from the regular rock and jazz, Manthan does not sing covers. "Original compositions is what we believe in, this is our way to restore the culture. Also, we can't just sing anything under the tag of music," offers Samrat, who has learnt tabla for almost 14 years and then moved to drums.

Fusion family…Samrat is still explaining what 'family' stands for. "I agree that music bands come with a shelf-life, but we don't see ourselves as band members, we are a family which is why we are still together even after five years," adds Samrat. Okay, Sufi? The word brings a smile on the faces of the band members; seems like a little secret the band shares. Vikrant, the vocalist decodes, "Sufi has become a trend and bands are singing Sufi without understanding what it means. Sufi means a lot of research and reading literature. If we can't understand what the song is all about, what is the point in singing it?"

And technology? Ish, the guitarist, takes the lead to answer this, "We are a fusion band so we use all kinds of techniques - old and new - to create music. We don't conform to one particular technique. This means we use both modern and traditional instruments to create original traditional notes." This reminds us that bands are known to create style and fashion statements, what has Manthan got to contribute in this? "We are young and we have our own style," the members smile and make a dash for the stage!

jasmine@tribunemail.com

A modern tune
Well-known playback singer Anuradha Paudwal, in Chandigarh as chief guest for a show, says auto-tuners have turned everybody into a singer
Ashima Sehajpal
Anuradha Paudwal
Anuradha Paudwal

Comparisons had to be drawn - between the music of the early 90s and now, between singers of those times and singers of now, between the music directors…when you have Anuradha Paudwal as the interviewee, comparative analysis is but natural!

Some aspects have got better; some have gone from bad to worse. The most ironical fact of the music industry, she feels, is the use of auto-tuners, which made it possible for Hrithik Roshan, Abhay Deol and Farhan Akhtar to sing Senorita in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara. "So, anyone and everyone can be a singer now. All that a music director needs is some technical help. When an actor takes to the microphone, ups the celebrity status of the song and it sells well," says Anuradha, who was in Chandigarh as the chief guest of musical evening organised in memory of legendary singer Mukesh by LEMACS, a cultural society.

A split screen between the present and past mirrors the difference in approach of the music industry. "Use of auto-tuner for a singer was demeaning then. No music director ever encouraged it. Now it's all part of the game." The game-changer has been a spurt of singing reality shows in India. As against majority of the critics of the music industry, Anuradha considers it a positive step. "Critics complain that once a reality show is over, seldom is the winner of the show seen. But if it wasn't for these, so many people wouldn't have got a chance to display their talent."

As to what happens to the winner and contestants once the show is over, she says that the situation is not all that bad as it is often projected. "Their popularity helps them get a lot of concerts. Money and fame comes easily. And you get to form a rapport with live audiences."

For the same option of performing at live concerts and interacting with people, she bid goodbye to the industry. Paudwal shifted to devotional music, which she asserts happened by choice and not for the lack of work in mainstream cinema. "Also I can't imagine myself being a part of the industry wherein music is sold off as caller tunes. When people tell me that they begin their day by tuning into my devotional songs, I get my due."

And how could the 'oh-so-important' question on item songs not be a part of the questionnaire. "I love Munni and Sheila songs; variety is always welcome. Every form of music is fine as long as it is original and auto-tuners are kept aside." This seems quite impossible, at least as of now!

ashima@tribunemail.com

Dressing up the man
The metrosexual man's wish to dress up well has changed the dynamics of the fashion industry
Ashima Sehajpal

Next time, someone passes the sexist comment, ‘Women are shopaholics'; use the example of Van Huesen India Men's Week, which successfully entered its third edition, to your advantage.

Even better, quote all the big designers who come up with exclusive collections for men year after year. The list boasts of the likes of Varun Bahl, Shantanu-Nikhil, Rohit Bal etc and they spend months together to come up with an ensemble only because men shop and they spend money on clothes as well as accessories! The metrosexual man's wish to dress up well has indeed changed the dynamics of the fashion industry.

On his visit to Chandigarh for the Blenders Pride Fashion tour, Rocky S confessed that unlike all these years when he only focused on women-oriented collections, this time 50 per cent of his creations were for men. As he says, "I have been doing a lot of bridal collection for women but this time I thought of concentrating on men's wear. The demand and supply logic applies here as well." His collection for the season comprises traditional Indian wear, sherwanis and bandhgalas in his signature colour - black.
Johh Abraham walks the ramp
in fashion: Johh Abraham walks the ramp

Men now experiment more with their wardrobe. The denim and tee, shirt and trousers pair-up will stay but there is more in the offing. The adventure begins with colours. The designer duo Rahul and Gunjan's recent collection for men was in all florescent colours. "Pink is the new blue for men. Demand for new colours means more collections." What follows is accessories for men - bands, pendants, watches and scarfs. "You talk of couture, prêt line, accessories; men's wear is a huge market. Why else every designer is out with a collection exclusively for men?"

Understanding of fashion in men, as Rocky S also says, has improved considerably during the last few years. They have become brand-conscious; the reason why men's wear is a major part of every brand's expansion plans. He adds, "Men prefer the edgy fashion styles that express their distinctive personalities and so I think they shop more these days. No doubt women are frequent shoppers, but when men shop they don't bother about the price tag." This explains why men's line is costlier than women's!

A logical analysis by designer Varun Bahl, who has been presenting his collection at the Men's Week along with Karan Johar, explains how men's dressing up depends on their looks and body type. "Anyone who is fit and has a great body wants to dress up well. Count the number of gyms across India, take notice of how men are working out - they are more conscious of their looks and have a sense of style."

Designers make clothes for such metrosexual men. Varun adds another significant point, "The men's fashion industry has a lot to do with their behaviour and looks." This is so true in the case of men who get beauty and hair treatments done. To begin with, it was this that shifted the focus of the fashion industry, earlier obsessed with women's wear, to men.

Celebrity designer Rohit Verma, for the first time, has come up with a men's line this season. His collection includes heavily embellished sherwanis and blazers. But why does he take so long to venture into men's line? "Fashion in India is still dominated by Bollywood. It's only after actors started experimenting in films that fashion became a serious business here. Movies like Dil Chahta Hai, Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna and Dostana have made a lot of difference when it comes to setting fashion standards in men's wear." All the more reason to celebrate the presence of a Hermes bag in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara!

ashima@tribunemail.com

Collector’s delight
From African Masai sculptures to models of historical locomotives, Sonu Mulchandani has it all
Gurvinder Singh

Photo: himanshu mahajan

For Sonu Mulchandani, CEO, E-Studio International, it all began as a hobby — collecting marine dockyard items to replicas of historical guns and swords; African Masai sculptures, models of historical locomotives, mechanical and station clocks; classic French furniture to bronze chandeliers from Iran.

"I graduated in science and fashion design. Collecting artifacts was a hobby, which over the years remains a hobby and has now become business as well," she says. Sonu has now come up with an exclusive store called Golden Compass.

"We have a tie-up with designers across the world and created exquisite pieces of art as well as sculptures," she says. About choosing Ludhiana for only the second store in India after Bangalore, she says that it was on the suggestion of a friend.

"We have been holding exhibitions and shows in Mumbai and Delhi, which are well-received by the audience," she says.

"It's only recently that we thought of expanding. We plan to open 19 stores across India in the next three years."

Many Chinese products swamp the markets, but the company stays away from sourcing products from there.

"We work across the world. China provides quality products to Europe and America, but elsewhere it's considered mostly B-grade, so we don't include any such products," she says.

The store houses customised products for the Ludhiana audience as well. "Stone art is very popular these days. So we have a collection with Japji Sahib inscribed on stone."

Talking about the theme of the store and criteria for choosing the products that she has, Sonu says there is a reason why every product in the store exists. It has a special meaning to justify its existence in the store.

What's next for the young CEO? "Concept and theme-based interior designing of homes is in the pipeline for me," she signs off. 

The heart-break brigade
Can't say 'it's over'? Tell break-up agent

Finding it difficult to say "it's over" to their loved partner, many couples in China are now seeking professional help of "break-up agents".

On e-commerce platform Taobao.com, these agents promise customers that they will "set them free from their spouses" by chatting, writing break-up letters and even sending back the gifts the lovers have given each other at the start of their relationship.

They charge 10 to 200 yuan ($31) an hour to break the 'bitter' news.

However, for anyone still wishing to have a relation with someone else, these agents are ready to offer their services to help them win a heart again. — IANS

For brides only
Vasudha Gupta

Clothes, jewellery, diamonds, bracelets, neckpieces and everything that glitters, is what Wedding Asia 2011 is all about. This one-of-a-kind wedding extravaganza brings some outstanding designers and famous names in the jewellery industry under one roof at Taj- Chandigarh.

One stall that stands out in the grandeur of lights and glimmer is Jewels Emporium. Bringing the most exquisite collection from Jaipur, the showcase is packed with far more than just jewellery. "Dreams sculpted in designs", they boast of a collection in peacocks and lotus flowers. One piece in one design, if you can loosen your purse strings, be rest assured you will grab the limelight. Quaint and dainty, peacocks set in gold and diamonds mesmerise onlookers.

Peacocks find takers not only in jewellery but also on fabric. Bringing a fine collection of suits and sarees, Shweta's peacock sarees stand out for her gota patti work. The designer has also shifted her attention from dual combinations to tri-coloured combinations. The collection makes for a truly unique prized trousseau.

Apart from clothes and jewellery, the exhibition has a host of options for home décor as well. Umeed, a Sangrur-based NGO, has brought mats and wine bottle covers done in golden croatia. To help out the artisans, you don't mind spending a little extra here. With the festival season all set to seek blessings from the Almighty why don't you pick up the very innovative figurine of Lord Ganesha from the Design Square? Perfect with golden detailing, it is sure to add the spiritual touch to your home decor around Diwali.

If nothing among the home and jewellery attracts, the pashima shawls at Wrap are worth a look. Hand painted and hand embroidered, embellished with tassels, sequins and thread work, it's the revival of a dying art. If it's the digital prints that catch your fancy, check out the Studio Design collection. This Delhi-based designer house brings bundles of jewellery-based prints. With no leg room there, be sure to lay your hands on the heavily embroidered cushions. Since the pay check have just rolled in, get ready, set and check-out this show.

(On till September 4)

vasudha@tribunemail.com

Sound wave
Percussionist Jonqui Blends elements from traditional music with modern beats
Vasudha Gupta

So, how would you react if your nick name becomes your professional name? It won't bring smiles for sure. But one nick name that finds all music lovers going gaga is Jonqui. In Chandigarh to play with DJ Bally at a Zen lounge, he talks about music, instruments and everything else.

"My son and I share the same birth date with Jesus Christ, December 25," he smiles as he finds time between setting up his sound system for his gig. His love for tabla in earlier days later became the foundation for his career choice of a percussionist. "I started feeling that tabla was monotonous. I shifted to other musical instruments," he shares.

When the interest in any activity starts at the tender age of 10, it is sure to leave an impact for life. "By the time I was 14, I was a graduate in classical tabla," he informs.

Hailing from Assam, Jonqui knew that his talent won't find many fans, which is why he shifted to Mumbai in 1995. Under the able guidance of Qureshi Alla Rakha Khan, he honed his skill on the tabla. "It was for the first time in 1999 that I recorded my album with a few DJs and then there was no looking back," he shares.

After being part of Kailash Kher's band for a little while, he moved back to make music with DJs when dissatisfaction poured in. "When you work with a singer, the musician tends to remain in the background. With DJs it's a different ball game as the focus is on the music," he says. Coming from Assam has also taught him to keep the traditional music alive. "Yes, I can also play the Assamese nagara with as much ease as I create music on darbuka, the Arabic instrument, vital for belly dancing," he breaks into a laugh.

For him, it's always the reaction from the crowd that gives him a high. No only in India, he has taken his love for percussion to the west as well. And wherever he has gone, he has learnt some instruments specific to that area. "I can also play Djembe, which is African in origin," he signs off.

vasudha@tribunemail.com

Master Chef
From Russia with Love!
Kandla Nijhowne

Think Russia and you promptly visualise Dr Zhivago, Vodka , Stalin, Sputniks and Stroganoff.... Straddling Europe and Asia, this enormous country's cuisine doesn't disappoint in its rich culinary diversity. There is ample use of vegetables teamed with meats to prepare well rounded meals that never fail to delight. Every cuisine has its own version of a pancake. French crepes, German potato cakes, Irish scones, Mexican hotcakes, Indian pooda or dosa and Russian blini. Blini are versatile little delights with a soft amazing breadlike texture. Make miniature ones and viola! They are a superb substitute for those canapes you are fed up of. They can be filled with jam, honey, sour cream, mushrooms, mashed paneer, hummus, chicken, fruit, chocolate sauce, chopped boiled eggs and mayo....anything. If you love waffles but don't have a waffle maker, this is a perfect substitute...foolproof and not half as fidgety!

Blini

2 eggs

1 tbs powdered sugar

1/3 teaspoon salt

½ cup all-purpose flour

2 ½ cups milk

1 tbs vegetable oil

1 tbs butter

Method

  • In a wide bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and salt.
  • Sift the flour over the bowl, and stir in the milk. Mix until smooth and well blended.
  • The batter should be thin enough to pour.
  • Heat a frying pan over medium heat. Oil it lightly and pour about 2 tablespoons of the batter into it.
  • Swiftly tilt the pan to spread the batter out evenly.
  • When the batter looks cooked and the edges are browning, flip over and cook for a minute or two on the other side.
  • Stack the blini on top of each other as they come off the pan, carefully smearing each with a film of butter.
  • To serve, spread with a filling of your choice and fold up in any shape, using your imagination.
  • Add chopped parsley to the batter for savory blini. You could substitute a tablespoonful of flour with cocoa powder for a sweet version.

(Nijhowne is city-based cooking expert)

Star track
Promos that promise

New and sensational promos are all over the place. Nothing garners buzz for a movie quite like a promo does. We take a look at promos that have been released lately. We tell you which ones rock and which ones do not!

Truly rocking

Rock Star: This is an absolute favourite promo this season! It is also one of the most anticipated ones and a promo that you want to watch repeatedly. You get enough of Imtiaz's dialogues, Ranbir's transformation, Nargis' acting, the chemistry between Ranbir and Nargis, Kashmir's beauty, Shammi Kapoor, and Rahman's music. The movie will finally release on November 11. We really hope and pray it lives up to the monumental expectations. Imtiaz Ali, Ranbir Kapoor, AR Rahman, and Shammi Kapoor are a heady and heavenly foursome!

Generating fury

Rascals: These mindless, derogatory to women movies should really be banned! People may not realise it but all this masala entertainment really destroys brain cells and increases anger! The promo is not at all funny, Kangna is supremely exasperating as a bimbo, and somebody please tell us why Ajay Devgn and Sanjay Dutt are wasting their talent in an outdated-yet-glossy David Dhawan film which releases later this year.

Reflecting sincerity

Agneepath: This powerful teaser was launched by the cast and crew of the film earlier this week and it has got a fabulous response. Sanjay Dutt looks menacing, Hrithik looks sincere, Rishi Kapoor looks dangerous, and PC looks sexy and mysterious. The film will be out in January 2012 but the promo has generated great buzz for it. We love the chant in it. For those who haven't seen the original cult film, the promo wants to make you watch it before the re-adaptation.

Number one

Ra. One: SRK couldn't have made a slicker promo. We think the production values and the effects are classy and neat. The teaser promo reveals just the right amount about the film and maintains a level of suspense and intrigue too. The background score is superb! The first promo was in English and now there is a slightly longer one in Hindi as well.

Mission possible

Don 2: Shah Rukh looks very messy in the promo. The references to the Mission: Impossible series are obvious. We like the red tinge. Don 2 looks like a very stylish and slick production. PC and Lara look glamourous. The teaser makes you wonder how the story will be taken forward. Find out on December 23 which, co-incidentally, is also the release date for Mission: Impossible Ghost Protocol!

Bold and beautiful

The Dirty Picture: All we saw in the promo were Vidya's ample assets that were visibly pushed-up! It is a very funny promo and we mean it in a good way. Silk Smitha's life was a tragedy but that dark aspect of the film is not shown in the promo. Vidya is at her boldest and sultriest best and it looks like the cast had a ball.

HRM

Deepika Padukone Not a Kat fight

After the Deepika-Ranbir break up, many said that DP and Katrina Kaif do not get along and are enemies. Deepika clears the air, "Katrina may not be someone whom I meet often or speak to everyday but that doesn't mean there's any negativity between us. I haven't been brought up like that. When others take digs at me, I don't make a big deal about that. I have a normal life, of course I go out for dinners, and the world doesn't need to know about that."






Chilled out: Deepika Padukone

Dino Morea Dino in Jism 2

The Bhatts have signed Bipasha for Raaz 3, we have heard from our sources that they are also making Jism 2 but Bipasha-John will not star in the film as Dino Morea and a new girl will feature in it.



Patience pays: Dino Morea

Arjun Rampal Arjun takes another lap

Arjun Rampal plans to open a resto-bar in Mumbai and Bangalore by the end of 2012. He first opened a resto-bar in Delhi called Lap, which is doing quite well so he wants to extend his luck to other cities too.
New openings: Arjun Rampal

Chatter box

Shah Rukh Khan SRK on the hot seat?

Sources reveal that superstar Shah Rukh Khan might soon be on the hot seat with host Amitabh Bachchan on Sony's Kaun Banega Crorepati. Although the channel is not willing to confirm the news, sources say that SRK has been approached and the team is positive that he will agree to be on the show.


Ready for computerji:
Shah Rukh Khan

The trap is laid
A still from Date Trap
Art of loving: A still from Date Trap

Season 2 of Date Trap is here. This time bigger, better and even more hilarious. This week, the two mischievous contenders Ajay and Ashish plot a mischievous date prank on their friends. Both are all set and excited to put their friends Arzoo and Sunaina into the stickiest situations of their lives. This date trap has been set up at a restaurant. Ajay's motive to play a prank on Arzoo is because she double timed his best friend and him during college days whereas on the other end Ashish's motive is to take revenge for the 12 slaps he got in Class X11. Ashish exclaims, "I had proposed Sunaina in Class VII, she complained to my mom and exaggerated it by saying that I misbehaved with her and I was beaten badly after that."

Saumya Tandon Return of kitchen queens

Malika-e-Kitchen the cookery show on Colors will soon be back with season 3. Saumya Tandon will continue as host for the upcoming season too. The shoot of the show has already begun. Saumya, when contacted, confirmed the news.

spice girl: Saumya Tandon

 

Spooky tale
Krishnaben Khakrawala
African avatar: Krishnaben Khakrawala

Fans of Krishnaben Khakrawala will now see Krishnaben in a whole new avatar. Krishnaben's daughter Divya is the victim of ragging in her college hostel. When Krishnaben finds out, she decides to teach her daughter's tormentors a lesson. Krishnaben discovers that a South African exchange student committed suicide in the same hostel because of ragging. So Krishnaben dresses up as the ghost of the South African to haunt the students. She says that she will put the tormentors off ragging.

Boyle's life on television

After her overnight rise to fame via a reality show, singer Susan Boyle will now be the focus of a new TV show chronicling her day-to-day life in Scotland.

The 50-year-old singing sensation is to appear in a fly-on-the-wall documentary to show how little she has changed since shooting to worldwide fame after competing on Britain's Got Talent in 2009.

The footage follows her in her hometown of Blackburn, West Lothian, carrying out everyday tasks such as grocery shopping and attending church.

The footage includes her backstage ahead of her performance on China's Got Talent. —PTI

A few of Vishal's favourite things
Vishal Karwa
Be positive: Vishal Karwa

Television actor Vishal Karwa, who is presently doing Imagine's mythological show Dwarkadhesh-Shri Krishna, is busy shooting in Vadodara. He tells us that despite the busy schedule, he makes it a point to work out regularly, as it is his stress buster. He tells us about other ways that he unwinds.

Early morning prayers

It's an important routine that makes my day stress-free. My day begins with prayers to the Durga mata. The prayers keep me thinking positive.

Workout

I love to work out. It is a great stress buster. Earlier, I would work out five days a week, but as I am shooting in Vadodara, I go to the gym early in the morning and also ensure that I work out after the unit packs up.

No couch potato

I do not watch television shows, but I watch music channels. I love Bollywood music and my favourite tracks are currently from the movies Mausam and Bodyguard.

Tuning in

In between shoots, I love listening to songs on my I-pod. I have around 800 songs. I love listening to Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Kailash Kher and Mohit Chauhan. When it comes to old songs, I love the songs sung by Kishore Kumar and Jagjit Singh's ghazals.

Reading

If I am not shooting, I love reading. I really liked the book, Life is Meant to Be Happy. I usually read books that talk of positive thinking and spirituality. Currently, I am reading Conversations with God by Neil Donald Walsh and it is an amazing book.

My BlackBerry

I find this is the best and entertaining stress buster. Whenever I am in my makeup room, I love to chat with my friends on Facebook. I really feel that a BlackBerry helps you maintain contacts.

Party time

After hectic shooting for five days, I always have an off on Saturdays and Sundays and I come to Mumbai to spend night out with my friends. Earlier, I used to go to Aurus and now I go to Nivotel in Juhu. —HRM

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Your card The Moon reveals a romantic interest. If you have a lover, this is the day to treat him or her with a gift accompanied by an intimate dinner. Money will be important to you. Tarot message: Don't be too certain about obtaining a clearance. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 38.

TAURUS: An unexpected bonus could appear in your pay check. It is important to stay abreast with the latest fashions. Enjoy being noticed and acknowledged. Tarot message: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 29.

GEMINI: Household task can be done in record time. Speculation would be most unwise. Love life will be smooth. Models: Admirers will stick to you like bees; 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.

CANCER: You will be popular with both sexes today. A level of stress may be building, especially if you face unpaid bills or if financial issues are weighing on your mind. You may be feeling vulnerable to criticism of neighbours or friends. Tarot message: It's better to mitigate the bitter. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 59.

LEO: Many of you will scurry to be on time, frantically trying to complete all the tasks on to-do lists before the day is over. Secrecy of plans will help you at place of work. Do not aim for spectacular results. Tarot message: Wait and watch, impatience will lead you to failure. Lucky colour: Cream. Magic number: 54.

VIRGO: Caring conversations and heart-to-heart talks flow easily. Keep the confidence that is entrusted to you. Health problem can be successfully handled. Go for water sports such as swimming, boating, fishing or sailing. Tarot message: Unfinished business will unleash new problems. Lucky colour: Grey. Magic number: 39.

LIBRA: You will get into the mood for cleaning and decorating your home. Married people will have a great evening. If possible get a dose of fresh air. Feeling fit and healthy can only add to your confidence level. Tarot message: You need to cultivate understanding and humility. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 63.

SCORPIO: Differences of opinion within the family could reach a boiling point. A stubborn response on your part won't help. Do not compromise on financial issues. Tarot message: If you are tempted to travel overseas don't waste money by financing the trip yourself. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 27.

SAGITTARIUS: If you are not okay about a relationship, finance or career issues, take positive action rather than worrying about it. Keep a low profile and bid your time. Tarot message: Dare to accomplish those tasks which normally take up a lot of time. Lucky colour: Brownish yellow. Magic number: 40.

CAPRICORN: Check newspapers and internet guides for what is on in your area. You win over an enemy or adversary. Writers will find their work in print. Keep cool and maintain a low profile. Tarot message: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far. Lucky colour: Mauve. Magic number: 49.

AQUARIUS: Those who are more spiritually inclined are likely go out in search of solitude. Love life is passing through a rough phase. A feel good humour and cosmic wisdom will weave into your affairs. Tarot message: Be positive and think carefully before taking action. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 42.

PISCES: Your card The Universe favours progress in profession. You will inevitably repent later. Distant affairs will become more favourable as the day progress. Useful day for tackling household repairs. Tarot message: Do not let anyone get an advantage over you. Lucky colour: Bottle green. Magic number: 25. 

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is September 4...

Number four is the worker. You are practical and give a lot of attention to details. You are trustworthy, hard-working and helpful. Ruled by the Uranus, you will be steady, logical, self-disciplined and more of a problem-solver. If expressed negatively—contrary, stubborn, narrow-minded. You've got a helping nature. But my dear, look before you make a commitment.

Business: You're totally dialled in this year if the stars have their say. Check in with your sources and work on those connections! Then watch your messages. What makes perfect sense to you could come across as funny to others. If you are joking, make sure they know it, especially in those tricky electronic contexts.

Career: The sky gives you a great drive and stimulates your determination. Make the most of this to get the results you want and you'll be successful. If you deal with multi-media, the stars will be on your side and will help you optimise your potential, thus increasing opportunities for profit.

Education: Your life is looking positive in every sphere. Enhance yourself physically and mentally as you have the perseverance to do so right now and this will make your future brighter.

Family: A family member has been relying too much on your generosity. It's time to stop handing out money whenever you're asked.

Friendship: Friends may ask for emotional opinions and even 'put you on the spot' near the weekend and it will take tact to ensure they are not offended.

Health: Your energy and confidence levels are likely to go up. Suddenly life looks meaningful and cheerful and you will again be in your element.

Love: If you find yourself disagreeing with a loved one it might be better to just sit back and let them fume.

State of mind: Cheerful and happy overall. Compatible signs: Virgo, Sagittarius. Lucky colours: Bright yellow. Lucky days: Your lucky days will be Mondays and Tuesdays. Lucky numbers: 5, 9, 15, 21, 25. Lucky flower: Lily. Lucky gemstone: Opal.

Rishi Kapoor (September 4, 1952, Mumbai) is the second son of Raj Kapoor and brother of Randhir Kapoor and Rajiv Kapoor. Married to Neetu Singh in 1980, he has two children Ranbir Kapoor, who is also an actor, and Ridhima Kapoor. Rishi debuted in his father's 1970 film Mera Naam Joker playing his father's role as a child, had his first lead role opposite Dimple Kapadia in the popular 1973 film Bobby which was a super hit. He also directed a film Aa Ab Laut Chalen. The astrological analysis indicates his success in directorial career in the time to come.





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