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An unending love story
Painter-poet Imroz, in Chandigarh for a book launch function talks about love, life and poetry
In an age when relationships break at the slightest provocation, when fractious ties are a norm rather than exception, here’s a love story that not only lasted a lifetime but continues six years after one of the partners is no more! Imroz and Amrita Pritam’s love tale that raised eyebrows when the legendary Punjabi writer was alive is today the stuff dreams are made of. So Imroz, who was in Chandigarh for the release of Bittu ‘Safina’ Sandhu’s book Sadhran, shares how sorrow has no place in his poetry. Never mind that his first poem took birth when Amrita was breathing her last. He recalls, “As I held her hand in mine, as she was turning into a seed the poetry was flowering inside me.” Not surprising, his first poem was mere andar kavita ki patiyan phooten lagi. Jab woh ped se beej ban gai, toh ek nazm ne mujhe apne paas bulaaya. Since then poems have been coming to him in an unstoppable flow and have been published as two books — one in Hindi and the other in Punjabi. Interestingly, he first writes in Punjabi and then moves to Hindi. So where was the fountainhead hiding when Amrita was alive? He smiles, only a trifle peeved by the query that has been volleyed at him time and again. “I was living poetry at that point, only now I am putting it down on paper.” Indeed, his bond with Amrita was as poetic as it can be — without ego, without bitterness and above all sans jealousy. So he had no qualms about Amrita’s visit to her ex-lover Sahir Ludhianvi’s house and she would often say “I am more free when I am with you.” So, how is life without her? Well, right now painting and writing are his two companions, but he doesn’t think artistic pursuits are more beautiful than human beings. Much of his poetry reminiscences about the time spent with his beloved. With the lines, Kamara yeh dekh kar apne aap ko ghar banta dekh raha tha, Aur mein us ki bolti aaknhon mein ek rishta banta dekh rha tha he recollects the moment when Amrita first came to his room. He recalls further, “She was irritated that she had to knock at my door in response to which I gave her the duplicate key.” Hum jeete hai ke hum ko pyar karna aa gaya hai aur hum pyar karten ha ke hum ko jeena aa jaaye… for him love is beyond time, space and, of course, death. Only it’s after Amrita’s demise that he has realised that poetry can be far more expressive than painting. Does it rankle that many referred to Amrita as an eminent writer and him as a lesser-known painter? He replies almost in a Biblical fashion “They know not: Why should the opinion of those who don’t know me and don’t understand my works bother me?” Public response, anyway, is of little significance to him. Till date he has not cared to hold an exhibition of his paintings. His books, however, offer a double bonanza and carry his drawings as well. Be it his poetic thoughts or his paintings, simplicity of form and lyricism reign supreme. Uncomplicated lines define the image of Kabir, man woman relationship and much more. As he muses, Zindagi tasveer bhi hai aur taqdeer bhi manchaahe rangon mein ban jaaye to tasveer aur unchhaye rangon se bane to taqdeer… there is no denying that his has been a picture perfect. For it has been created with unconditional love! nonika@tribunemail.com
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Direct narrative
Writer-director Nabhh Kumar, in Chandigarh to promote his upcoming movie Nabbe, shares how he let the script do all the talking
A film-maker is a glorified version of a story-teller. The script takes precedence over anything else and the director just acts as a medium in the narrative. Pretty much what writer-director Nabhh Kumar did in his upcoming movie Nabbe — let the script and the story take over! “Had the script demanded that the length of my movie been ten minutes, I would have gone ahead and made a ten-minute commercial film,” he speaks of his 90-minute film, on one of his on-off visits to Chandigarh. “The director is no one to decide the duration of the film. My length is what the story demands. Moreover, there is a non-linear screen play.” And he is all set to turn the comprehensive two-and-half-hours song and dance routine to a crisp audio-visual session. The story deals with terrorism, a subject that has inspired cinema time and again. “There’s a message of anti-terrorism. That human blood is not for bloodshed.” Packed in the narrative are six rock songs as well. “It’s a story of two terrorists, who after the bomb blasts happen will leave India.” The irony is that the blasts are planned in a rock concert happening for peace and harmony. He adds, “After the 26/11 incident, I was disturbed enough to figure out how I could contribute. We’ve been working on this for the past one-and-a-half-years.” And it’s not hard to figure out where the inspiration came from. His next venture deals with a much lighter subject. “I can’t reveal much about it now, but it’s titled The Right Turn, which is a story of a bunch of ‘haywires’ talking a right turn in life and coming back on the track.” Herein comes the city angle, “I think Chandigarh is a very youth-oriented city with amazing talent. I’m planning to pick up a music director, the star cast and quite a lot of the crew from the city,” Nabhh Kumar, who hails from Haryana and is now based in Mumbai. Even Nabbe has a fresh cast. “I certainly enjoy working with freshers more because they always have this zest to learn and can be moulded. We didn’t want to have established names taking the limelight away from the script.” It’s been close to 22 years since his cinematic journey began as an assistant director in Maine Pyaar Kiya. Anyone even slightly following Bollywood will point out the significant changes, but would Maine Pyaar Kiya be just as relevant in today’s times. “I feel that the movie would have been a hit even today because it deals with the basic subject of love and romance, which is eternal.” The handling could be different but the script is just as relevant. Yet again, the story takes over! manpriya@tribunemail.com |
Some sadness, some khushiyaan
When requested to sing a song, Jasbir Jassi rather preferred to sing a shabad sung by Jagjit Singh from the film Khushiyaan
Ja tu mere val hai ta kya mohchanda. “This was his last shabad,” he said who was in the city for the promotion of his first movie as a lead
actor Khushiyaan.
Talking about the movie, he said, “This film is about family values and that happiness cannot be bought with a credit card.” Although it is his first film as an actor, he is no novice when it comes to acting. His stint in theatre with Harpal Tiwana for
two years has stood him in good stead. But over the years, as ‘one tends to have a body language
like a singer’, he is now unlearning that. He has sung two songs in the
movie. Tisca Chopra stars opposite him, while the movie also stars Kulbhushan Kharbanda and Rama Vij. The movie has largely been shot in Punjab near
Dasuya and a fourth of it in New York. He is upbeat about the future of Punjabi movies saying that there is ample content and concept in
Punjabi art.
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She has been Tellywood's lucky lady for the past few years and now Sanjeeda Sheikh who is better known as the winner of Nach Baliye 3 and for her super duper performance in Kyamath has the audience praising her acting skills in rib-tickling comedy show Hai Padosi`85 Kaun Hai Doshi. Sanjeeda chatts about this comedy show. What is the show about? Hai Padosi.. Kaun Hai Doshi is a rib-tickling comedy of two families living in a society. How the two families give rise to mix-ups that entangle the families and other incidents in a series of comic escapades. This is your first comedy show. Are you feeling any pressure? No, I am not feeling any pressure. I have stepped into the comedy genre consciously. I am really excited to be a part of this show that is getting good response from the viewers. Did you agree to do Hai Padosi`85 because you wanted to experiment with the comedy genre? I have played quite a variety of roles earlier. I wanted to experiment with comedy. I got this opportunity with Hai Padosi. The show is doing very well. How do you look back on your career? Well, I started with Kya Hoga Nimmo Ka and had donned number of hats in front of the camera. With Kayamath and Kya Dil Mein Hain, I got established on Television. I have got awards for the shows. So, it has been good. Life must have changed a lot for you after Hai Padosi...? Definitely. The most significant change is that I have become very confident. I am no longer under pressure. I can do any kind of roles now. What is scope of comedy on small screen? Comedy is the toughest thing to do. I can make you cry very easily but I cannot make you laugh. It is very difficult. Your experience on the set? All my co-stars are talented and very supportive. So, I love to work with them on this comedy show. Our bonding is great. What next for you? Right now I am busy with the show. It has generated a lot of interest among the viewers. The response to this show is tremendous. — Dharampal |
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Dressing down
Actress Kangana Ranaut, who walked for designer Shantanu Goenka at the ongoing Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week (WIFW), says the people in Bollywood are not very stylish except for her contemporaries, Priyanaka Chopra and Sonam Kapoor. "I don't want to hurt anyone with my remarks, but I find that the style quotient is missing in Bollywood except for Priyanka and Sonam who know how to carry well," Kangana said. The Kolkata-based designer presented a line inspired by the French queen Marie Barrios. According to him, Kangana was the perfect muse for this collection. "I wanted Kangana to look feminine, I didn't want to go overboard and I thought she completely justified the theme," he said. Dressed in a white and beige gown, she looked confident while sashaying down the ramp. "I never feel uncomfortable while walking the runway as I have done it in films like Fashion and Raaz 2. So it has become a part of my character," Kangana said. "Also, I love Shantanu's designs and admire his creativity. He always makes something which suits my complexion and figure," she added. When asked about her future projects, she said: "I am working on the sequel of Tanu Weds Manu and Ishqiya." — IANS |
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In different roles: Kalki Koechlin Kalki Koechlin has it all. Her films: Shaitan, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, That Girl In Yellow Boots have won her much recognition and popularity. She is enjoying being (newly) married too. She talks about her new film, My Friend Pinto.
Comedy packed My Friend Pinto is a racy, mad comedy about a young musician who comes to Mumbai from Goa to visit a friend. He is a simple, innocent guy who gets lost in the city and has a one-night adventure with people from different walks of life. It has emotions, fun, and I love everything in it. I play the love interest of Prateik in the film. Multi-talented Prateik is very spontaneous and humble. He always instructs and supports me whenever I get nervous. So this chemistry should work on screen also. One should watch the film to know the other side of Prateik, whom we have seen in multi-starrer films. There is certain innocence about him. You cannot move away your eyes when the camera is rolling on him. This film is innocent, light, unpretentious and spontaneous. I believe our chemistry is really nice in the film
Mirror image In the film I play the love interest of Pinto. She is quite close to my heart because she lives her life on her own terms and enjoys every bit of it. She encourages her friends and close ones to live like her. I too live my life on own and try to enjoy every bit. I enjoy playing such character roles. The darker side No, I get attracted towards characters and roles which speak something. In ZNMD I had a small part but my character was different and everyone liked it. My Friend Pinto is different from what I've done so far. And that's the beauty of it. I love challenges. Being an actor I try doing something different, though yes darker films are more real and realistic cinema attracts me a lot. Rib tickling After My Friend Pinto I would love to do more comedies because that's what people are telling me to do. So let me try my hand over there too. Comedy films are something which anytime, anyone likes; age no bar. Favourite film It's hard to say because I haven't seen any film lately. But I watched Delhi Belly and loved it, It is so much fun and entertaining. My Friend Pinto is all set to release on October 14 — HRM |
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Mega star Amitabh Bachchan, who turned 69 on October 11, says one of the best ways to celebrate birthdays is to keep working. Despite completing 40 years
in Bollywood, the ageing actor is not the one to rest on his laurels. He
is busy shooting for Ram Gopal Varma's Department, despite getting
injured on the sets of the film. He is also hosting the season 5 of Kaun "One of the best ways to bring in birthdays is to be working at what you need to be working on...I work because of I need to ....love!!," Bachchan said. The actor returned home at midnight after shooting for the Diwali episodes of KBC and said he could just make it home in time for the clock to strike 12 and for the family to wish him. "The greatest joys of life are in the simple wishes," he said. Immediately afterwards, he settled to interact with fans from all over the world on his blog and micro-blogging site twitter. "It is past midnight! It is my birthday today! It is another year gone by! It is stepping in to the 70th year for me! Thank you! Have just been released from the clutches of work form KBC... and here to thank you all for the love and affection you shower!! "They ask me what I wish for my birthday... why only on the birthday, it should be everyday... I wish another day to pass in peace! Thank you all once again for all the Birthday wishes... I am so humbled and filled with pride... you make it all happen... my love," he said. On his blog, Bachchan recalled that he was born in a small private maternity outfit run by a missionary Dr Brar, in the most-crowded market area of Allahabad. — PTI |
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Slice from a woman's life
The gossip is not extraordinary. Between the instructions, there are giggles and discussions of the saris, dupattas and the bangles. Such is the atmosphere at Tagore Theatre, where Abhinet, a theatre group is all set to showcase the talent of young women. "There are 10 of them, playing 12 roles and all in the age-group of 20-25," says Kamal Arora, the director of the play. A renowned Chandigarh-based theatre artiste and educationist, Arora admires the talent he has chosen. Gathering the girls, he says, "The plot of the play is women-oriented, so there was really no better way to do it than with these girls. And the kind of dedication they have, it's been a learning experience for me as well," he says. The deliberations on bangles don't end till a semi-circle is formed. "It is my first play with Abhinet," Isha Mittal, who plays Kajari's sister, says. Nervous about coming from diverse backgrounds, the most difficult part for these young women has been finding the right time to practice for the play. Anupam, who plays Kajari, has been associated with 'Sir' since the past six years and believes that working with him is always an enriching experience. Kajari Ban pivots around the life of Kajari, who has to battle her husband's absence and stand up against all odds to give meaning to her life. "Kajari is at the receiving end of negativity from women in her own village," Kamal says. Interpretations and learning has been derived out of observing housemaids communicate among themselves. The music of the play has been given by Subhash Ghosh. "It weaves the play, we are using folk songs from UP to integrate the mood with the act," Kamal says. Not sticking to any said formula or rule, the director hopes that the viewers will be able to decipher messages from each character. "Kanwal Baitwan is playing two roles in the play and most beautifully enacting her parts," laughs Kamal. Looking at it from the point of view of enriched wisdom, Kamal says, "Ban is a forest, Kajari Ban refers to the forest and dark spaces in Kajari's life," as he disappears in the giggles and chatter, smiling in between and instructing his young followers. (The play will be presented at the Tagore Theatre on October 13) vasudha@tribunemail.com |
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Celeb point
Chitthi na koi sandesh, jaane wo kaunse des, jahan tum chale gaye...the golden voice that epitomised ghazals. Jagjit Singh! When you have grown up on someone's music, known him personally, chatted and joked with him, spoken to him in chaste Punjabi and then suddenly you hear he is no more. It's very hard to digest. It's been a tough one on the industry, a huge loss! How we take our lives for granted, when we say, Accha, kal milte hain, you don't even know whether there will be a kal. My introduction to that golden voice was Hothon se choo lo tum. I asked my aunt who had sung it. She said it was Jagjit Singh. From then on whenever it was an album which had his name on it, I had to buy it. How he added to his ghazals the softness the pathos...the melody! There had never been a time when I had not cried listening to his magical voice! When I met him for the first time, I was so much in awe but he patted my back and said, Kudiye kinna wadiya kamm kardi hain." I was overwhelmed that he was following my work and encouraging me. Later, I met him a few more times, now joking, chatting and so much at ease with this lovely ever-smiling man.. I used to wonder, inspite of his personal losses, he kept a smiling face always. Hs own song, "Tum itna jo muskura rahe ho, kya gham hai jisko chupa rahe ho," held true for him! I loved attending his concerts and the impact he had on his audience was unparalleled! When I heard about his
illness and the rumours that floated about his death, I was hugely taken
aback. Some people you feel are not meant to die. They are supposed to
live forever, to stir your soul with their talent. Just two days back I
asked how he was doing and I was told that he was stable. I was so
relieved and then the morning news told us that he was actually gone.
Can't digest it! I Life surprises me and death does it too. Yahi duniya hai to phir aisi ye duniya kyu hain.. You will be truly missed Jagjitji! Adieu! (Dutta is a well-known Bollywood actor) |
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Bohemian chic
A graduate in fashion and image design, Kavya Rai has her priorities right when it comes to trends… What is your sense of style? It is quirky because I start dressing with accessories and the rest of the style follows. I prefer being individualistic and colour is an important element for me for expressing myself. Latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories… A clutch from Channel, which is my graduation gift from my parents. Brand crazy or street pick-ups? Brands for the best bet and street pick-ups for variation. Your style icon would be… Madonna who looks amazing in whatever she wears. Who do you think is the worst dressed celebrity? Paris Hilton, for she does not dress according to the occasion. Imagine wearing a mini dress to a film fest? Which look would your prefer - sporty, chic or glamorous? Sporty and glamorous, but definitely according to the occasion. One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension… Animal prints from head to toe really bug me. Your take on accessories… I just love accessories and love to coordinate them with my attire. Who would you like to be dressed by? As a stylist I would only trust myself What gives you a high on the confidence level… When I am successful at whatever I have done maybe dressing up or designing and even cooking. (As told to Poonam Bindra) |
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Bikini boy
Saqib, like his character in Mujhse Fraaandship Karoge, is a huge prankster. During the shooting of the film Prabal's character Hacky had to imitate his super hot co-star Tara in a scene. But Saqib told Hacky that he would have to wear a bikini.
Hacky didn't believe him because he thought Saqib was kidding. But when the bikini arrived with a razor, he was in for the shock of his life. He got around to shaving his chest for the scene and landed on the set in a blue bikini.
But when the director asked him why he wasn't in his costume, it hit him hard that it was all Saqib's prank and he had been tricked into shaving his chest and wearing a bikini. The whole set cracked up and Prabal realised that he had been fooled. It also made for an epic picture. Check, check!
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When love goes out of control
Sonu Nigam on the occasion of Navratri celebrations went to Chhatrapur Temple to perform on devotional songs for a newly-launched bhajan album. On this trip he encountered an unforgettable incident.
Within no time, a massive crowd gathered to see their desi idol live. Despite security arrangements, the mob had gotten out of hand. Sonu had a tough time escaping from there with his family and friends.
His path was blocked, people were crying in excitement, they were pushing each other violently to get a glimpse of him.
On this Sonu said, "All I can say is it's a classic case of love becoming terror." Other media present at this event captured all of it live.
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Against all odds!
During the shoot of the song Chhoo Le in Mujhse Fraaandship Karoge, there was a requirement of over 2000 junior artistes to act as the crowd. But due to a last minute strike, some of the junior artistes decided to not be part of it. Things started to look really bad until someone from the crew played the track loudly on the system as part of the sound test. Suddenly, people from nearby areas started dropping in on the set and checking out the song. In fact, so many people walked in that there was no need for junior artistes anymore. We had a live audience rocking to the song that introduces Nishant as Rahul in the film.
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Chatter box
Shveta Salve was recently seen playing an emcee at a do during Paris Hilton's visit to Mumbai.
Shveta is looking forward to this song sung by Sunidhi Chauhan which has an Arabic feel.
Rumours are that Shveta has been offered the lead role in the play Kennedy Bridge but things aren't final yet.
She has loads to look forward to, including her marriage.
She recently got engaged to
Harmit Sethi, a director with an event management company. Good going!
Twist in the tale
In Colors' Laagi Tujhse Lagan, this week Nakusha (Mahhi Vij) who has left her house after her husband Dutta Bhau (Shabbir Ahluwalia) broke all ties with her, will faint on the road and will later realise she is pregnant.
But she won't go to Dutta.
She will stay with her Baba and little brother.
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Chef Vikas Khanna, who is all set to make his TV debut as a judge on MasterChef India 2, has been awarded a Star by Michelin Guide, the world's most famous food manual for his restaurant Junoon in New York. His book Flavors First won accolades from US President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama and also was awarded with the 2011 New York Rising Stars award. The prestigious title is given to chefs who are leaders in creativity, ambition, discipline and their cuisines! "It gives me huge pleasure to receive the two biggest and prominent awards in one night. This is surely an acceptance of my team's good work," said Chef Vikas Khanna. He will soon be seen judging Master Chef India on Star Plus. As he makes his TV debut in India, his vision is to inspire the budding chefs. |
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The year ahead
If your birthday is October 12...
You need plenty of patience, confidence and a strong voice to make others notice your birthday. The energy of 3 allows you to bounce back rapidly from setbacks, physical or mental. There is restlessness in your nature, but you seem to be able to portray an easygoing attitude. You have a natural ability to express yourself in public and you always make a very good impression on others. Good with words, you excel in writing, speaking and possibly singing. You have a keen imagination, but you tend to scatter your energies and become involved in too many superficial matters.
This is not a good time to approach influential people with your creative ideas and strategies. You would do well if you let your projects develop for some more time and wait to make a better presentation. If you've been experiencing some emotional difficulties, now is a good time to clear the air. Avoid pressure and stress by planning a romantic interlude. Put your best foot forward in all things. Youngsters who participate in a competition or a contest make their mark by displaying brilliance beyond expectations.
False friends threaten to sap your time and resources. Sit with the family, especially before spending big amounts or making decisions in festive season. Money will be in your hand in need. Your financial condition will be good. An important professional opportunity is in store. Going abroad is possible. If you have any plans to purchase land or flat, postpone it, as this is not the right time to go in for such purchases. Despite occasional health problems, you will remain active. Mood: Dodging personal issues frequently. Compatible signs: Leo, Sagittarius. Lucky colours: Aqua, Coral. Lucky days: Tuesday and Saturday. Lucky numbers: 5, 9, 12, 15, 21. Lucky flower: Petunia. Lucky gem: Malachite - a gemstone for stability.
Ehsaan's success is a testimony to his years of hard work in the music world. Together
Shankar, Ehsaan and Loy have given melodious music to Bollywood. Ehsaan enjoys blues and
electronica.
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Atro Turf
ARIES: Health problems can be satisfactorily attended to. Personal plans are likely to progress without much opposition. Be above board while dealing with employment affairs. Issue over finances can cause upsets in your relationship. Tarot message: Emphasise on spiritual needs. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 50.
TAURUS: Business is likely between you and your associates. Long term benefits can be gained. Attempt to improve your health will be successful. You feel you need time to understand the changes that are taking place around you. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 62.
GEMINI: Entrepreneurs will go through an anxious period. The married or those in love will find the day exciting. Students: Success is assured. A lot of energy will be spent on communication today. Tarot message: Do not divest assets or transact in uncertain matters. Lucky
colour: Aqua. Magic number: 45.
CANCER: The temptation to help out a friend with a loan should be discussed with your partner. A sexual relationship might have reached its climax. Talk to your partner about this. Tarot message: Be articulate to prevent people from making their own conclusions.
Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 32.
LEO: Your partner supports you. Right time to purchase something that adds to the value of your house. Working toward your goals may seem a little harder than usual. Take a few deep breaths then start working.Tarot message: Don't be dismissive of advice from youthful origin. Lucky colour: Sea green. Magic number: 52.
VIRGO: Do not try to hurry with jobs that require meticulous handling. Argument with your partner is likely. Daydreaming could inspire ideas and you might become quite inventive on the job. Tarot message: Use your instinct to get into the top circle of power.
Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 64.
LIBRA: The day promises all comforts. Love stars are shining. It should be much easier for you to meet your challenges. People will be more drawn to you than usual with the Moon lending you extra charm and magnetism. Tarot message: Set the unpleasant set of events into motion. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 53.
SCORPIO: Tension builds and tempers can fray. Practice deep breathing to maintain your composure. A desire to retreat to the comfort of your own home could be overwhelming. Leave the rigorous pace for the peace of the couch. Tarot message: Must learn to accept responsibility. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 40. SAGITTARIUS:
Your card indicates an emotional setback. Stick to what you know and understand. Legal suits turn in your favour. Trouble with a female family member can cause some tension. Tarot message: Your determination to succeed will pay dividends.
Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 61. CAPRICORN: At work, a colleague steers you in a new direction. Love stars are behind the clouds. Spend time reviewing the events of the past so you can make decisions about your future goals. Tarot message: Work could pose certain minor difficulties but don't worry.
Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 26. AQUARIUS: Get cracking early. What you need now is energy. You must push yourself harder. Be careful with money. An irresistible attraction to someone you know can override your sense. Practice caution. Tarot message: Avoid the in-built delays that come your way.
Lucky colour: Mauve. Magic number: 47. PISCES: Your card reveals inner strength and enthusiasm. Do not take the risk on road and drive carefully. Arguments may arise with your spouse or partner over money. Love life is exciting. Tarot message: Don't forsake a new learning opportunity because of pride.
Lucky colour: Rainbow pastels. Magic number: 65.
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