A different beat
DJ Sassy Pandez, who was described as the ‘sexiest DJ in the world’ by Maxim magazine, says fame does not lure her
Ashima Sehajpal

Do we hear it right when a celebrity says she hates fame? Or is something wrong with our hearing? It’s understandable when our celebrity shares that she is a teetotaler, vegetarian or has never done drugs despite being in the industry where all this is a part of life. But when DJ Sassy Pandez, who was described as, “The sexiest DJ in the world”, by Maxim magazine, says she hates being addicted to fame, we begin to wonder.

“Fame brings along depression. I have seen celebrities struggle with stress because they do not get a call from any of the leading magazines to be on the cover page,” she says. As for her, she has been there, done that - on the covers of Cosmopolitan, FHM, Vogue, GQ and Maxim. “I have never approached a fashion magazine. It’s they who ask me to get featured. I accepted the offers not for fame, but for money and who minds that. Fame makes you shallow,” says the DJ, who was in Chandigarh to mix music at Kava-26 on Friday.

Settled in Miami, for Sassy, the priority is her music. “I am a DJ first and a celebrity later. It is this belief that helps me stay level-headed. There are enough examples of celebrities who have ruined their life due to drugs.” Examples of Michael Jackson and the recent victim of overdose Amy Whinehouse followed.

Sassy’s form of music is hip-hop. She has played music in collaboration with celebrities like Jay Z, Will Smith, Eminem, Beyonce and Rick Ross. So, does she feel any pressure while working with the popular singers or has she ever faced any tantrums? “I have my own tantrums,” she quips. “I do my work just the way they do theirs. They are stars because they chose fame; my work is the only priority for me. I would rather be known for my music than for my looks.” To excel as a DJ, she keeps herself abreast with the music scenario. “Once a week, I make sure to visit any disc to learn what other DJs are playing.” She adds that an intelligent DJ is one who doesn’t play the same record twice in a party.

With over 10,000 followers on Twitter, Sassy is very active on the micro-blogging site. She makes it a point to check tweets once a day. “I reply to as many fans as possible each day. It also helps me know what music fans want me to play at a certain party.”

What’s the line-up for Kava on Saturday night? “A mix of hip-hop, house music and some Bollywood; I like the beats of Bollywood music.” She also knows that a lot of foreign actors have made their mark in Bollywood. “I won’t mind sharing some screen space.” And she needn’t repeat that it’s not for fame, but big bucks that she wants to be in B-Town.

ashima@tribunemail.com

Chai on a high!
Manpriya Khurana

It’s perhaps the up-street way of sipping the drink of humility — the humble chai has come a long way and travelled up enough to be called the high tea! While hosting a high tea might sound all regal and lofty, is it actually a high class tea party? Or the nomenclature stems from the timings at which it is hosted. Perhaps, the menu is the differentiating factor. With majority of the celebrations being hosted or the collections being unveiled or the events being held over that ‘high-chai’, here’s all you wanted to know about it.

Traditionally, high tea was more of a working class meal than an elite social gathering. Shares Aanjum Hassan, consultant chef for Lucknawi cuisine, “Tea, typically, is between lunch and dinner. High Tea is a term coined for the meal served between tea-time and dinner. Ideally, it should suffice for dinner. There should be not just nibblers doing the rounds; rather something more fulfilling. ”

The early evening meal, usually eaten after sunset comprises a comprehensive list of food items, meats, sandwiches, sweets, cakes and of course tea. The concept, as we know of today, is known to be popularised in England during the 1700s.

However, today, blame the growing popularity on the practicality of the concept. High tea, despite being a heavier version of a regular tea, suits many. Nods chef Duddi Reny Manohar, executive chef, Bella Vista, “The concept is more popular for seminars, corporate events, meetings and especially during the breaks they have.” He adds, “A lot of times, even meetings between prospective groom’s and bride’s families takes place over high tea because a lot of times they do not want to meet over an elaborate dinner or lunch.”

More often than not, it’s a dessert post high tea and you’re done with the evening. Nevertheless, there are ample requisites to take care of. Warns Neeraj, chef and beverage manager, Taj, “It has to have a snacky menu alongside; there should be minimum ten to twelve dishes along with high tea.”

The maximum number can go up to as many as thirty to thirty five dishes. “Apart from the timings, it’s a very elaborate concept as compared to a regular tea party. While a normal one might only have cookies served, high tea must have the likes of scones, accompanied by fresh strawberry jam, various kinds of muffins, green tea cakes; at times varieties of cheese as well. It’s like a lot of new concepts have come into the old-fashioned version.” He adds, “The Indian version of high tea would be a kitty party.”

The English meal gained popularity in the 1600s, especially among the labour class. It was often substantial because hearty dishes were served, perhaps meat sandwiches or hot cooked food like meat pies, cheese, steaks, etc.

Can the trend be considered as friendly on the host or the lady of the house? Opines Aanjum Hasan, “Housewives obviously want to finish parties early; it’s convenient in a lot of ways. But on the other hand, planning a lot of variety into the menu becomes difficult too.”

It is a far cry from the modest drink associated with porters and every Peter Pan holding a cup in his hands! Laughs Raj Suponsengla, chef at a city restaurant, “Don’t we usually like all sorts of fried snacks to accompany the ‘chai’ at home.” It’s like enjoying the daily addiction with a variety of foods.” Sip sip!

manpriya@tribunemail.com

Secure to the core!
Anas Rashid, the lead actor of Star Plus' serial Diya Aur Baati Hum, says if one has talent the sky is the limit
 
Jasmine Singh

Insecurity — the word looms large over each one of us; at some point or the other it makes a special appearance. Tellywood too deals with this word everyday. Anas Rashid, the lead actor of Star Plus' serial Diya Aur Baati Hum, is well-versed with insecurity. 'In fact, it is the maximum in the television industry," he says, slipping out easily from under the shadow of this most dreaded word.

"I am not insecure. I know my strengths and weaknesses. Apart from this, I also know that if I have the talent I would keep getting work, no matter what age I reach. I am pretty confident about my capabilities, so why should I be insecure then?

Anas Rashid, who made his debut as Kartik Ahuwalia in Kahin To Hoga, has a hard act to follow — replacing the much-adored Rajat Tokas as the young Prithviraj Chauhan in the Star Plus show. "Whatever roles I have done have been different. I don't believe in doing the same roles again and again," shares the actor who comes from Malerkotla in Punjab.

And we thought television was all about repetition till death! He laughs, "I don't know about it, but I have tried to be different with every role. The role that I play in Diya Aur Baati Hum is pretty different and challenging from the rest of the roles that I have done. It is better to wait for a substantial role rather than going in for just about anything," he points out.

Now, everyone wants to be an Aamir Khan! What says Anas? "Aamir Khan waits for the right kind of role. It's not that he is not flooded with offers, but he takes a call on roles that appeal to him. I have always waited for a good role. I sat home for almost five to six months after a hit serial because I did not want to do just about anything," shares Anas, who doesn't mind doing Punjabi cinema. As of now it is television and its share of ups and down.

"This is true for every other profession. I am not scared about the 'out-of sight-out-of-mind' phenomenon. If I am a good actor, audiences would want to see me again."

Waiting for a role doesn't sound easy? "It isn't," pat comes the reply. He adds, "We actors are used to shooting everyday. Not going for a shoot could be killing for an actor," shares Anas.

Are films happening we ask? Any luck so far? "The word try doesn't exist for me. If I have to do something I would give it a real good shot. As of now, I am busy with television. I am getting offers and I am glad."

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Break into the green
Mona

A refreshing get-away in nature’s lap, flitting birds to give you company, a soothing Kerala massage, meditation in solitude or complete rest in a small, gracious hut is what Yorks Health Resort promises. ‘A Date With Nature’ runs the tagline, a day’s trip, and, one couldn’t agree more!

Around 25 kilometres from Chandigarh switch the highway before Pinjore for a bumpy ride. Few yards ahead of HMT (just before one turns to Pinjore), towards the right there is steep diversion. Take this Malha road to start the journey.

The road is far from perfect; it’s narrow with steep turns. Expect greenery to find its way in case you like to drive with windows open (that you would for the air is cool and the countryside inviting). A short journey uphill, another downhill, and, some twists and turns, a particular patch through the village with cement tiles instead of regular road and one reaches the destination.

Small, sleek huts in three rows look inviting. Done in fibre and concrete, with stone mosaic, these separate huts come with a small, private lawn that boasts of a picnic table. A restaurant serves meals. There is this in-house Hanuman temple as well. Choose to walk among the greenery, there are some 300 mango trees dotted with swings or sit in a corner to meditate. And if you are lucky enough, you can enjoy a cup of piping hot coffee in a heavy downpour!

There is an indoor gaming room. Take pleasure in a table tennis match or play carom, chess. Two halls that serve as conference room are ideal for a small get-together. A welcoming, hospitable staff treats one well. If you send a request early enough, the staff is more than happy to arrange for mountaineering, Burma Bridge and other group sports. For party freaks, there is possibility of a rain dance as well, as a fountain and the place is earmarked for it.

Plan a day’s trip, since it’s not far from Chandigarh or choose to stay overnight. The choice is yours. Not only the destination, the bumpy drive is enjoyable as well. The silence is broken only by the chirping of birds. If the resort is not hosting some school or a corporate conference be assured of unbroken reverie in nature!

mona@tribunemail.com

Not a model world

Kota boy Bharat Sharma, a regular at fashion weeks, says there isn’t enough work for male models in India and that the young faces who want to make it big in the glamour business have to deal with favouritism and compromising situations.

“Yes, compromise is the major issue which male models face and is the short cut to start and get a few assignments. But it doesn’t help in the long run until you make and maintain that relationship. I never opted for the short cut and prefer working neatly,” Bharat said when asked if it was true that partiality and compromise are part of the glamour business.

“Work for guys is less and nowadays everyone wants to try their luck in the (fashion) industry. Since everyone wants to try their luck, they face favouritism and compromising situations,” the 27-year-old Bharat said.

He started his career with the Gladrags mega model contest in 2007 and won the Mr Pune title in the same year. Apart from this, he has been a regular at the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week and the Lakme Fashion Week. Another concern for male models is payment. Asked if they are sufficiently compensated for their work, Bharat said: “No, not really, but, yes, there are a few exceptions and it depends on the way you work.”

Given an opportunity, would he prefer to work in India or abroad? “Abroad... as I want to compare both the sides and zero in on which side is more beneficial. The work culture in India is quite disorganised and disappointing,” Bharat said. At the same time, he felt that the Indian fashion industry has a bright future and that menswear is evolving.

“Indian menswear has seen enormous growth since the fashion bodies started realising its value...it is no more only a trouser or a T-shirt for guys in India, it’s much more now.”

Bharat has walked the ramp for almost all the big names — from Rohit Bal, Tarun Tahiliani, Rajesh Pratap Singh to Manish Malhotra, Wendell Rodricks, JJ Valaya, Narendra Kumar Ahmed and Vikram Phadnis. — IANS

Goodbye size zero
Now Kareena prefers the voluptuous look

Kareena Kapoor is a shining star. She knows that, so she does not care about her hits and flops and her critics. The born-star wants to work till she turns 60. Bebo talks about working with all the Khans and her astoundingsuccess.

Supportive co-stars

I have been lucky to share the screen with all great actors like Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, Saif Ali Khan, Salman Khan, SRK, and Aamir Khan. When you work with a good actor you tend to work hard and their work too inspires you. So I have been lucky in terms of co-stars as they all have been very supportive since my initial days.

Lucky with Khans

This year has been a historic year for me as I got to work with all the Khans in the industry: right from Salman, Shah Rukh, Imran, Saif, to Aamir. So I am very excited about my upcoming films. Now, I have Ra.One coming up.

Agent Vinod

It’s another interesting project with Saif. We are still shooting for it so I cannot say much about it. The film requires a lot of post-production. I am looking forward to it as it has been challenging for me. The film has action, thrills, and romance.

Chemistry queen

I had a little role in 3 Idiots but still I felt that my chemistry with Aamir Khan in 3 Idiots was sweet and catchy

Cats in competition

Everyone is good. It’s sad that Rani and I don’t have any scenes together in the film we are doing. We have worked together before. She is a great actress and it’s nice to have her around. Today we have so many good-looking girls like Katrina, Priyanka, Anushka, and Deepika. Priyanka does a good job but still I feel there is a dearth of good actresses.

Thin or curvaceous?

I am no more a size zero; I am curvaceous and I am enjoying it. Saif is happy and so is my family. It’s important for women to keep their curves and I believe in staying healthy and I am fit and healthy. And I want to stay fit and look healthy as I want to work till I turn 60. 

Over with the past

Bipasha Basu has loved the promos of Rock Star and Mausam and is looking forward to both films. She is friends with Ranbir Kapoor and is getting to know Shahid Kapoor. She refuses to even acknowledge John Abraham.

Brand family

The father-daughter duo of Anil Kapoor and Sonam Kapoor have been roped in as the brand ambassadors of EMGEE Group’s real estate projects.

Anil said the brand’s central philosophy of encompassing passion, integrity “form the pillar of my family too and thus my daughter Sonam and I are delighted to partner in their progress.”

Both Sonam and Anil have previously endorsed pen brand Mont Blanc.

IANS

 

Not a model world

Kota boy Bharat Sharma, a regular at fashion weeks, says there isn’t enough work for male models in India and that the young faces who want to make it big in the glamour business have to deal with favouritism and compromising situations.

“Yes, compromise is the major issue which male models face and is the short cut to start and get a few assignments. But it doesn’t help in the long run until you make and maintain that relationship. I never opted for the short cut and prefer working neatly,” Bharat said when asked if it was true that partiality and compromise are part of the glamour business.

“Work for guys is less and nowadays everyone wants to try their luck in the (fashion) industry. Since everyone wants to try their luck, they face favouritism and compromising situations,” the 27-year-old Bharat said.

He started his career with the Gladrags mega model contest in 2007 and won the Mr Pune title in the same year. Apart from this, he has been a regular at the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week and the Lakme Fashion Week. Another concern for male models is payment. Asked if they are sufficiently compensated for their work, Bharat said: “No, not really, but, yes, there are a few exceptions and it depends on the way you work.”

Given an opportunity, would he prefer to work in India or abroad? “Abroad... as I want to compare both the sides and zero in on which side is more beneficial. The work culture in India is quite disorganised and disappointing,” Bharat said. At the same time, he felt that the Indian fashion industry has a bright future and that menswear is evolving.

“Indian menswear has seen enormous growth since the fashion bodies started realising its value...it is no more only a trouser or a T-shirt for guys in India, it’s much more now.”

Bharat has walked the ramp for almost all the big names — from Rohit Bal, Tarun Tahiliani, Rajesh Pratap Singh to Manish Malhotra, Wendell Rodricks, JJ Valaya, Narendra Kumar Ahmed and Vikram Phadnis. — IANS

Master Chef 
The saucy touch
Poonam aggarwal

Good sauces are very important for tasty cooking. Here are the recipes for three widely used sauces.

Bachamel (white) sauce:

250 ml milk

40 gm butter

2 tpsp flour mixed in 50 ml water

Salt and pepper to taste

Heat the milk. Do not boil it. While stirring, add flour-mixed water. Keep stirring. Cook till it gets a little thick. Add butter. Cook again on medium heat. Add cream or cheese or both according to taste and season with salt, pepper and herbs. You can vary flavour by adding chopped onion, garlic and parsley.

Tartar sauce

150 ml mayonnaise

1/4 tsp French mustard

2 tsp shopped parsley

2 tsp chopped capers

1/2 tsp asparagus chopped

1 hard boiled egg (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all the ingredients together. If necessary the sauce can be thinned with lemon juice or vinegar. Serve with grilled fish.

Bar-be-cue sauce

250 ml. tomato sauce

4 tsp tomato ketchup

1/2 tsp mustard powder

1 large onion

4 garlic cloves

1 tsp worestershire sauce

1 tsp vinegar

1/2 tsp salt

2 tsp sugar

1 tsp degi mirch

1 tsp lemon juice

1 tsp oil

Blend the ingredients together to make a fine paste. Put the paste in a saucepan, add oil and cook on medium heat. It can be seasoned with herbs like oregano, rosemary, parsely etc.

Aggarwal is a Ludhiana-based  cookery expert.(As told to Poonam Bindra)

The foodies
Pick on the move!
Good food and a casual atmosphere. That's what Pick & Move stands out for 
Jigyasa Kapoor Chimra

Way back in 1978, SS Sibia started a humble outlet in Sector 8 and named it Pick & Move. Now, a popular joint for take-away food as well as eating out there, this cozy corner is known for its non-vegetarian dishes, specially momos.

Having survived over the years despite the mushrooming of fine dining outlets, this place surprises you with the rush it witnesses in the evenings. And, to think this place started as a poultry shop but was later converted into a food joint on public demand. The menu was not elaborate to start with. They started with three soups, keema naan, tandori chicken, seekh kebab, biryani and fish tikka.

Today, the menu has a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes. We suggest their chilly chicken or tandoori chicken for a wholesome meal. Kathi rolls, spring rolls and fish tikka are too hot favourites, but the best thing here is momos. Chicken and cheese momos are their speciality. The juicy stuffing just melt in your mouth and the outer cover perfectly cooked.

If you want to have food in the comfort of your car, you can. Just go for less messy dishes like mushroom chilly, keema naan, tandoori chicken and kebabs. For vegetarians their cheese chilly, and veg kathi roll are the thing to look out for.

Eating is fun

For Girish, Sachin and Sumit students of DAV College-10 this joint is a must-visit on a holiday. "It's not expensive and we get to eat good non-veg. But the best thing about the outlet is they serve in the car too and that's what we love about this place," they chorus.

Their order: Keema naan, talumein soup and chicken momo.

Best among the lot: We like their tandoori chicken and momos.

Price: Suits our pocket.

Service: Good.

Meal for three: Rs 400

Star track
Life’s lessons

He never discussed about the ups and downs in his relationship in public but Bollywood actor John Abraham says his break-up with Bipasha Basu has made him mature enough to deal with life.

John, 38, dated Basu for ten years and the couple split recently.

“I have become mature in life. I must say that every relationship helps you to grow in life and makes you mature.

If today I am sitting here and discussing about my personal life which I had never done before, you can easily gauge that how much I am enjoying my space and time now,” John said.

“I am happy that now I have time for myself and my ailing parents. They are not keeping well and I am devoting all my time to them,” he added.

Professionally also John is enjoying the current phase of his career. He believes his forthcoming release Force, Tamil remake of Kaakha Kaakha, will enable himself to make a mark in the genre of hardcore action.

“After Dhoom, I’ve not attempted any action film. So, my fans were a little disappointed with me.

Many pointed out that I have the physique and strength, therefore I should attempt a hard core action film. And post this film I think people will find me in the action hero slot,” John said during an interview.

But he says, it was not intentional to join the league of action heroes of Bollywood.

“I think it’s all a sheer coincidence that I am playing the character of a cop. We had never planned that all of us will play the character of an outrageous cop. But I feel Salman bhai and Ajay Devgn have brilliantly donned the character,” he added. — PTI 

Rascals turn item boys

Sanjay Dutt and Ajay Devgn have turned item boys. Both the actors will be seen grooving to the beats of item song Shake It Saiyan in their new comedy film Rascals.

The song was first shot on Sanjay and Lisa Haydon. Director David Dhawan was so impressed with the way the song turned out that he decided to shoot a second version with Ajay, Sanjay and Lisa.

David informed ace choreographers Bosco-Ceaser and shot a second version of the song in just two days. The set was recreated with funky and colourful additions.

The film is co-produced by Sanjay Dutt and Rupali Aum Entertainment and is slated for Dussehra release. The cast also includes Arjun Rampal and Kangna Ranaut. — IANS

Animal instinct

Pop star Kesha has been appointed the Humane Society International’s (HSI) first global ambassador for animals. The singer, whose debut album was aptly-titled Animal, is a passionate animal rights campaigner and will promote protection and compassion for creatures around the world as part of her new role.

She recently urged her fans to sign a petition to stop product testing on animals.

“I take this opportunity incredibly seriously because we are all animals. One of the main underlying sentiments of my music is to respect all living creatures just as they are,” she said. — ANI

Buoyed with children’s success

Actor-turned-politician Raj Babbar says he is a “happy father” as all his three children have begun their innings in cinema and have found a foot-hold in Bollywood.

Babbar’s three children — Prateik, Juhi and Arya — are few films old now, even as the veteran actor continues to juggle between cinema and politics. His most recent film was Salman Khan starrer Bodyguard where he played Kareena Kapoor’s onscreen father.

“I am very happy as a father to see the success of my three children. I feel they are very intelligent and they have charted their own course,” Babbar told in an interview.

Babbar, a Congress MP from Uttar Pradesh’s Firozabad, said the new generation has a different way of thinking and all his three children have suitably adapted to their own interests.

“I have always encouraged them to do what they want. As a father whenever my guidance is required I am always there for them. But they are free to take their own decisions,” he said. While Prateik is Raj’s son from late Smita Patil, Arya and Juhi are his children from Nadira.— PTI 

On a song

Bollywood’s heartthrob Ranbir Kapoor is a charmer — while shooting for a scene with sex workers for his forthcoming film Rockstar, he sang for them to ease their tension before the shot.

A scene in Ranbir’s upcoming film Rockstar shows him playing the guitar and singing for sex workers and director Imtiaz Ali wanted to shoot it in a real location rather than creating sets, so the director decided to shoot it in Grant Road here.

On the day of the shoot, the women were excited at the prospect of meeting Ranbir but were even more nervous about the shoot. To help them feel comfortable, both Ranbir and Imtiaz had a friendly talk with them.

“They (the sex workers) were very shy initially. They were reluctant about coming in front of the camera... but Imtiaz and Ranbir spent some time talking to them and created a comfortable environment after which we commenced shooting,” said a source.

The actor, who had taken extensive guitar lessons to prepare for his role, actually played it live and sang the verses himself, leaving them captivated.

“Once the shoot was over, some of them even took pictures with Ranbir and requested for autographs; and Ranbir happily obliged. They wished Ranbir and Imtiaz good luck for the film’s success,” the source added. — IANS

Shahid, the weatherman

Bollywood actor Shahid Kapoor will don the role of a weatherman and predict weather for a day to promote his upcoming flick Mausam. According to sources, the IMD which gives weather forecast will soon teach Shahid the basics of the trade. Shahid is planning to become an employee of the MeT department for one whole day and don the hat of a weather forecast man to promote Mausam, they said.

Mausam is about seasons of love and not exactly about weather. However, the marketing team came up with this unique idea and everyone just loved it. We are working out the permissions,” film director Pankaj Kapoor said. — PTI 

Diwali bash

Imran Khan, Ali Zafar and Katrina Kaif made a great team on and off screen. They were always goofing around and having a ball.  They especially had a blast when all three were shooting together on the night of Diwali - Ali Zafar broke into a live gig and belted out song after song while Imran and Katrina cheered him on. All three danced and sang together and it became one crazy Diwali party!

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Enjoy a friendly gathering in your neighborhood. Luck is on your side and good things will come your way. Venus, the goddess of love, will bring harmony to your close relationships. Tarot message: Try to relax in the middle of the week and put your cares aside. Lucky colour: Beige.

Magic number: 64

TAURUS: Listen to your heart, regardless of what your head keeps telling you. A demanding lover may try to keep you away from those close to you. Now is the time to stand up for yourself. Tarot message: Be sure of involving yourself in a new project. Lucky colour: Burgundy.

Magic number: 30

GEMINI: Tread carefully with your money. Stick to your regular job as it is the best way to boost your reserves. Domestic chores could interfere with your plans, but can’t be overlooked. Don’t get emotional over a practical matter. Tarot message: Work could pose certain minor difficulties but don’t worry. Lucky colour: Silver. Magic number: 52

CANCER: Older people and family commitments can take up your time. Get on your favorite creative project. Hobbies will give you much satisfaction. Tarot message: It is best to get a clear perspective and balance your energy before making important decisions. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 60

LEO: A recent training or practice programme should pay off big-time today. Misunderstandings will be cleared. Contracts can be finalised and plans will be initiated. Romance beckons, so be sure to see and be seen. Tarot message: Remember it is the thought that counts and not the price tag. Lucky colour: Golden. Magic number: 42

VIRGO: Financial gains will accrue through relatives. Make sure you know what is needed beforehand and the delays may not be as long. Those looking to buy a property should check out the neighbours and the local area first. Tarot message: Try to be active in catching financial opportunities. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 55

LIBRA: A certain misunderstanding with a close relative will be cleared. Do not spoil your chances by being rash. Intimate encounters can affect you at a deeper level. Working behind the scenes can be rewarding. Your creativity will enjoy uninterrupted flow. Tarot message: Do not leave things up to chance. Lucky colour: Blue. Magic number: 65

SCORPIO: A slow moving day. Lovers will enjoy today’s meeting. Financial situation should ease. You need to blow off steam in an impersonal setting for the sake of peace. A secret rendezvous might be the cause of underlying guilt. Tarot message: Use your judgments and be firm in extracting a commitment. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 28

SAGITTARIUS: A laid-back atmosphere will give you the chance to focus on your own needs and desires. Do not push the point, let it go and you will find out what it is in due course. Tarot message: Do not play into the hands of a shrewd set of colleagues.

Lucky colour: Green.

Magic number: 58

CAPRICORN: You are unlikely to be in the mood to start new jobs. The opportunity to exercise and benefit from your natural talents is highlighted. Artistic and musical endeavors should be successful. Couples might think about an outing. Tarot message: Take care of interests and portfolios of your work. Lucky colour: Grey. Magic number: 29

AQUARIUS: Use your imagination and enjoy the creative ideas. You are likely to be sensitive to others, but this will help your communication. Be sure to protect your physical condition. Tarot message: Dare to accomplish those tasks which normally take up a lot of time. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 44

PISCES: Turn your attention to matters of money and the budget. If there are problems, discuss them with partners or close associates. To forgive and forget is the best. Peace and calm should reign. Tarot message: You will be happier if you retain the fruit of your hard work. Lucky colour: Yellow.

Magic number: 49

Chatter box
Spiritual move

Tina Dutta aka Ichcha might be a problem child on the sets of her show Colors Uttaran but she is a Ganesh devotee and this year she went to all famous pandals with her father. She visted Lal Baghcha Raja and Ganesh Galli reveling in devotion, prayers and her God.

Lust for jewellery

On Zee TV’s Mrs Kaushik Ki Paanch Bahuein, all ladies of the house, Bindeshwari Kaushik (Vibha Chibber), Gehna (Gunn Kansara), Nimmi (Swati Bajpai), Simran (Rubina Shergill), Reeya (Deeya Chopra) and bride, Lovely (Ragini Nandwani) experienced an air of excitement and were looking forward to be decked in traditional Rajasthani attire for Kartik and Lovely’s upcoming wedding on the show. But when Deeya found out she would have to wear modern jewellery and not traditional ones, she asked director to give her Gehna Bahu’s jewellery, he refused as Deeya plays an NRI so she had to stick to modern jewellery. But later, Deeya jumped with joy when the director gifted her Gunn’s jewellery.

My friend Ganesha

Sambhavana Seth kept Ganapati and religiously followed all rituals and pooja for her lord Ganesh. For the visarjan, she got dhol and nagada and what not. She danced with one and all on the road, like no tomorrow and her super energetic dance drew crowds too. She even leapt on a bus to shake a leg.

Sweet talk

Jiaa Manek, the sweet and simple Gopi from Saath Nibhaana Saathiya on Star Plus, has many issues weighing on her mind. We get her to share what she is currently thinking about.

Lalbaugcha Raja

The first thing on my priority list right now is to visit Lalbaugcha Raja. I try to go every year but this year I have not been able to go for the darshan because of my shooting, which ends late at night. I just hope that I get an off, so that I can visit my favourite Ganpati. I hope and pray that I do not miss my chance because I will be hugely disappointed.

Salman Khan’s health

As I have mentioned in all my interviews, I am a diehard fan of Salman Khan. He has always been my favourite actor. I read in the papers that his surgery in the US was successful and I am glad that he is better now. I was worried about his health and even made a mannat for him, which is something personal. Now that he is better, I will fulfill that mannat.

Season of promos

This weekend catch Shahid Kapoor on Star Plus’ dance reality show Just Dance. The cool star and versatile dancer will shake a leg with the contestants this Saturday. He will also be promoting his upcoming film Mausam starring Sonam Kapoor. Check it out.

Bodyguard

After visiting Lalbaugcha Raja, the next thing on my priority list is to watch Salman’s film Bodyguard. Everyone has been telling me that the film is bad and that I should skip it, but as I said I am a diehard fan of Salman. I am sure I can never dislike his film. I will watch it as soon as I get a chance.

Anna Hazare’s movement

I caught up Anna Hazare’s movement and I am happy that the government agreed to pass the Lokpal Bill. Anna’s fight against corruption has succeeded and I hope that all those guilty of corruption are brought to book.

Potholes

I just got to know that the next mission of Team Anna is to get the government to better the condition of the roads. I can’t tell you how glad I am after hearing this news. The potholes of Mumbai are a nightmare for drivers. My shoot ends late and there have been many instances where I have been left stranded on the road due to the horrible roads that damage my car. I hope team Anna’s mission is successful and we get a smoother road to drive on.

Gift for mom

I have been planning to buy my mom a diamond ring for quite some time now and I think it is time that I should do it. So shopping for mom’s gift is also on my list. My mom is my best friend who has always been there for me and she deserves no less than diamonds.

Diwali Dhamaka

The rehearsals for Diwali Dhamaka on Star Plus will start in a few days. I will be performing this time, so I need to gear up for my act. I am wondering how I will find time to rehearse along with my shooting schedule, I just hope I manage well.

HRM

Anna on TV

UTV Bindass will celebrate Anna Hazare’s cause and as a tribute to the icon, a new track will be played on the channel. The songs goes like this- Dadagiri, Gandhigiri, Aur ab Annagiri! I am Anna, under the table kharcha paani. I am Anna, Kiska rokda dey zabaani. 

Out in the open

In Zee TV’s Yahan Mein Ghar Ghar Kheli, Koyal (Sonia Singh) has been creating havoc in the lives of Karan (Karan V Grover) and Abha (Suhasi Dhami).

 In the maha episode on September 10, her truth will be revealed before the family. 

first-day-first show

Mere Brother Ki Dulhan

Mere Brother Ki Dulhan is a quirky romantic comedy, set in the world of the upper-middle class of North India.

Kush Agnihotri (Imran Khan) is looking for an ideal bride for his brother, Luv Agnihotri (Ali Zafar), who stays in London. In his quest, Kush goes through an array of wacky encounters with several families until he finally finds that perfect girl in Dimple Dixit (Katrina Kaif), the craziest girl he has ever known. Both the families meet. Formalities completed. Preparations proceed in full swing. And just then, our hero Kush falls in love with Dimple, his brother's dulhan. What follows is a comical and unpredictable series of events in this unusual topsy-turvy tale of love.

Starring: Imran Khan, Ali Zafar and Katrina Kaif

Oh so predictable!

The leads are watchable and likeable. The story in entirely predictable, so do not expect too much from the movie.

— Shreya Malhotra, student, MCM College

Rocking story

It is a truly romantic comedy and an entertainment- packed movie. Katrina is looking like a true rockstar.

— Rohan Mutneja, marketing executive, Airtel

Ali the hero

It could have been a better movie in terms of its script but Ali Zafar makes it up for it. Ali has got talent and looks even better than Imran.

— Rekha Sharma, housewife

Good music

The movie has good music and fun songs especially the track Madhubala.

— Amitesh Singh, P.E.C student

(As told to Sabia Talwar)

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is September 10...

Number10 takes the lead in love and the chase is of utmost importance to these lovers. However, there can be self-centeredness. You may be willing to experiment, which will be quite exciting.

Education: This might seem like a touch and go period with a lot of things happening at once. Still, try to put your head together and that will help you maintain a good balance between your private life, career and the rest. Family: Ideas and communications will be guided by the influence of your most cherished dreams. Errands may involve plans for a future trip. Have clear and concise thoughts. Finance: Your income could rise now, or you may work on new sources of income, your partner may invest heavily. Keep your eyes on your hard-earned income around the weekend. There could be a huge outflow because of losses or investments.

Friendship: You might run into an old pal, an old friendship might rekindle or a friend might be upgrade to more than just friends. Health: Health will be smooth. Even chronic ailments will be under control. However, do take care of your stomach. Diet should also be in control. Love: You will be in a very good mood, which will reflect on your loved one putting him or her in a good mood as well. You have a balanced love life which is why things seem to be so calm at home these days. Spend some quality time with your loved ones. Mood: Comfortable. Compatible signs: Gemini, Virgo. Lucky colours: Burgundy and Maroon. Lucky days: Monday and Thursday. Lucky numbers: 6, 10, 12, 18, 32.





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