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Brighten up your world
The season of festivals is on and it is the perfect time to give your home a makeover
With Diwali around the corner, let the stars descend on to your living room or give your master bedroom another dash of vibrant colour or paint your child's room in his or her fancy world - it is 'the' time for that magic makeover!
Colour me red
It's usually the time to get your home painted. Reds, maroons, pinks, oranges, yellows and gold are the favourite colours of the season. Thanks to the Internet, you can log on to any paint brand's website and design your room virtually before you go for the real change. "If you find getting the whole house painted too tedious, try doing just a wall in a room or hang a bright painting," suggests interior designer
Sukhmani.
Let there be light
Dazzling décor is what goes with the festive spirit. Sector 17 and other markets are already glowing in light. If an array of colourful lights in different shapes does not interest you (the environment-conscious class), try candles. Aromatic candles not only make a room look bright, but also smell good and are welcoming! Using colourful lamps is another idea to brighten up any room.
Flower magic
Marigold garlands are the traditional choice for home décor on
Diwali, but then, there is plenty of choice out there. Roses, Gerberas, Calendulas,
Lillies, Gladioli, Tulips, Tuberose (rajnigandha), choose the ones you like and decorate the different nooks and corners of your paradise before you actually start celebrating the festival of lights.
Make it bright
Changing upholstery is the easiest way to add colour to the interiors. Not only festivals, winter is on its way as well. Go for bright and thick curtains. Colourful paintings are another good idea for the season. Bright silk or brocade cushions, rugs are other not too tedious makeover tricks.
Unleash creativity
With festivals come holidays. Indulge in a passion that is long lost. Pick up the brush to make your masterpiece or use worn out dresses to stitch something new. Or make your wall your canvas, to paint and decorate your world. Design your own rangoli pattern or sift through the traced-ones readily available in the markets. Making candles can be therapeutic and they help decorate your abode. Or else bake a cake for your loved ones!
Basics first
Not only chic exteriors, this is also the time to pay attention to basic details. If there are repairs that demand attention, sort them at the earliest! You don't want the costly paint ruined by a damp wall. Also, discard the stuff you have not been using for months. You may not need it again. Share your surplus with those who are not so privileged. Not only will this help de-clutter your home, but also make you beam with inner happiness! mona@tribunemail.com
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Good shot!
England cricket team's star batsman Kevin Pietersen, in Chandigarh for a match, talks about his love for Indian food and how excited he is to celebrate Diwali
When the direction given by organisers of the event is 'no cricket questions please', we wonder what else will be of interest to England cricket team's star batsman Kevin
Pietersen. The mandatory Indian topics-Bollywood and Indian cuisine seem like the safe bets to initiate the conversation. He goes on to reveal a few more kitchen secrets. He is fond of barbeque food, but when it comes to cooking - "Eating is a better experience than cooking." The next best topic is
Bollywood. He knows a bit of it, knows Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone. He doesn't forget to mention, "I know her through Siddharth
Mallya." And that's about it. Now since, he is here to promote the scotch brand he gets candid about his drinking habits. "I am not a regular drinker but when I am partying, I don't mind going overboard." This year, it will be his first Diwali celebrations in India, something he is eagerly looking forward to. "I really wish to get involved in the festivity. When you get an opportunity to be a part of a culture that is so diverse, I don't think that it should be taken casually." He praises people here for their hospitality, "In fact, they help me save a lot of money by not letting me pay my bills anywhere," he laughs. Also known for his fetish for style and tattoos, Kevin is presently supporting three on his arms, two permanent and one temporary. "I like body inking but then at the same time I believe that whatever one gets inked should have a meaning. It shouldn't be just body art. When I get a tattoo done, I make sure it gels with my personality." Well played! ashima@tribunemail.com
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Designs on men
As the country continues to go gaga over women's fashion and designs, there are a select few who look in the other direction. Among youngsters from the city who are hungry for attention with pretty boutiques and smiles on their faces, there is one who stands up and forms an impressive correlation between fashion and business. Shweta
Uttam, a pass-out from NIFT, Delhi, is doing just that through her collection Shoolin Designs, out at Hotel Aroma.
Watching her dad dressing in off-beat hues of charcoal and muted tones of red gave her the insight into the gaps in menswear. "It was during my study at NIFT that I came face-to-face with Italian designing and technology under GIVO," she says. From learning the intricacies of western wear for men, she moved to Raymond through her campus placement. "The concepts I worked on had an Indian inspiration from monks and sadhus. They were called meditation wear and are now popularly known as lounge wear," she says. Moving to ITC-Wills, she was instrumental in the launch of John Players and polished her understanding of casual-wear for men. It was then that she moved to buying houses and widened her horizons in the fashion market. "I am not one of those who will dress up, create a line and not have clients," she says. After all, in today's day and age it is all about creating a name. "My stint in buying houses helped me understand what real high street fashion is all about," she adds. In her hope to bring the Indian man at par with the more fashionably dressed international counterparts, her line is a mix of party-wear, casual and the transition line. "It is a mix of clothes to wear for winter," she says. Addressing the more Indian designs, her collection also includes kurtas in art silk and paper silk. "Men fall out of options when it comes to festivals and weddings, this is for that," she smiles. Also, looking at accessorizing the boys, her range of stoles has been created from the interiors of
UP. "Indian men still like to pull up their look," she winks. So, if your aunt's first cousin is headed for the wedding ceremony, there is more than the 'Benetton' shirt for you. Men, go designer this season! (On till October 20) vasudha@tribunemail.com
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Priyanka Chopra will return to the big screen in the two biggest movies of the year: Agneepath and Don 2. Along with that, she will also be seen in Barfee. She talks about her films and more. How's life treating you? Life has treated me well. I'm enjoying myself. Soon I will be busy with the promotions of Don 2 and Agneepath. At the same time, I'll be working with Kunal (Kohli). I'm also working on my solo album. I'm very busy and I love that. You did a few women-oriented films. Do you believe that these films have an impact on a typical Bollywood fan? It really depends on the script and the actress. Fashion was a woman-oriented film, as was Saat Khoon Maaf and No One Killed Jessica. The good thing is that times are changing and actresses are getting recognised for their acting capabilities too. Is it tough to make a mark in a male-dominated industry? Although it's a male-dominated industry, women have their role to play. However, you make your image and do justice to your character. For me, it's about the impact I have on a film more than the amount of screen time I get. Your next film is Barfee. Tell us about it. Yes. I play someone suffering from autism. I have done a lot of research on lives of people suffering from autism. There's a very thin line between being autistic and mentally challenged. I was very touched when I met them and I hope they like the film and my character. What about Teri Meri Kahani? It's again challenging because I am doing a romantic film for the first time. I am a big romantic so doing a romantic film is always fun. I am working with Shahid Kapoor. Working with him is always great because we worked in Kaminey and we have developed a comfort level. And working with a director like Kunal always brings out the best within you. Agneepath and Don Both films are remakes but believe me; the directors have done justice to the original script. Both the films are well made and everyone will be satisfied. In Don 2, I am working with SRK, who is my favourite co-star. He is full of energy and when you see him you too get charged to work more. And I am excited about the film as it will release in 3D. In Agneepath, I am working with Hrithik Roshan, who is a man of few words but is best at whatever he does. You have signed so many films opposite Saif Ali Khan, but nothing seems to be working out? Yes, we had signed some three films together but because of professional reasons and date issues we couldn't manage those films. And thankfully you didn't ask me whether it is about Kareena. I am so sick of such questions. But I think Saif is a very good actor and it will be great if we get to work together someday.
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Television actor Kinshuk Mahajan who rose to fame as Ranvir of Bidaai will very soon tie the knot with his sweetheart Divya Gupta. We spoke to Kinshuk Mahajan about his views on marriage. What can you tell us about your marriage plans, rituals? It’s very personal I am not that comfortable to talk about my marriage plans. The wedding will take place with authentic Punjabi weddings with saat phere, and other rituals. One celebrity you would like to attend your wedding? I don’t want any celebrity in my wedding as I want the wedding to be simple. For my wedding, I will invite celebrities who are my friends, the main attraction will be me. I want the marriage to be classy and elegant. What’s your dream destination for honeymoon? It has to be Europe because it has everything history, culture, romance, snow, and a great atmosphere. What changes do you think you will make after marriage? After marriage, I feel everything changes for both man and woman. I feel after marriage it is very important for both groom and bride to take up their responsibilities which is the most important change. How would you describe marriage? Marriage is the most important thing in life. It is not only about merging two souls but two families into one as well. Marriage should not be a compromise or adjustment. Which is your favorite wedding song? I am not that filmy and don’t really like to hear Bollywood wedding songs. But I love the dhol and the authentic wedding songs in Punjabi. I love Bhangra too. Marriages are made in heaven, do you agree? Yes, I do agree that marriages are made in heaven. I also believe that it’s our duty to maintain its purity.
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Rati becomes Hitler didi on small screen
Rati Pandey will soon be back on the small screen. Zee TV’s new prime time offering Hitler Didi introduces you to Indira Sharma played by well known actress Rati Pandey along with Sumit Vats, a fresh male lead opposite her.
An Indya.in source informs, “Ratis’ character Indira has forgotten what it means to smile, dream and love somewhere along the path of life. She has thrown her way on both the home and work front, she loses her sense of humor, her ability to feel finer emotions and becomes a regimental disciplinarian, a workaholic and a perfectionist -who is almost always on the verge of losing her cool. Enter then, Rishi, a tenant whose sunny smile, light-hearted wit and jovial spirit comes like a breath of fresh air for a family.” Speaking of her role in the show, actor Rati Pandey says, “It is a challenge for someone as vivacious as me to play a rather stoic, serious Indira who’s forgotten the joys of living. But I can strongly identify with her focus towards her career and how dynamic she is in her approach towards life. Personally, I love Delhi and the show’s month-long schedule in the city has left me with some beautiful memories to choose from.”
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chatter box
Pets are just not one’s friend but also family. They are fun, loving and great stress busters. As a matter of fact, television actors love to have pets. We explore the special bond of actors and their pets who continue to be their best companions...
Hiten Tejwani Mahhi Vij Sukirti Kandpal Sanjeeda Shaikh Yashashri Masurkar Vivan Bhatena |
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Astro Turf
ARIES: Six of Wands bring a gracious and aesthetic influence in your life. You are likely to face several interruptions which will make it difficult for you to stay on schedule. Singles should be cautious about new relationships. Tarot message: Don’t reveal your plans to your competitors. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number:
27.
TAURUS: You draw Two of Wands to invoke mental power and intelligence to achieve professional goals. Work will be smooth sailing and your analysis of current projects will be appreciated by colleagues. Tarot message: You shall prevent a lot of trouble by taking timely action. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 35. GEMINI:
You are awakened and energized by fiery Knight of Wands. Your creative abilities will be at their peak if you take care to present them properly. Romantic relationships can benefit from honest communication. Tarot message: Don’t reveal your plan of action to anyone. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 27. CANCER:
The Ace of Pentacles leads to actualization of personal plans. You may be restless and might be making changes to your routine. You need to spend time to define the changes you want to implement. Tarot message: Don’t do anything at the cost of health. Lucky
colour: Jade. Magic number: 29. LEO: “The Lovers” inspire you with love and creativity. If you have spent time finalizing the details of your pet projects, now is the time to take the initiative and implement your plans. Tarot message: Make compromises outside and come to terms within yourself.
Lucky colour: Golden yellow. Magic number: 46. VIRGO: “Two of Wands” spin in speculation luck. You may be in an irritable mood and could react aggressively when faced with dissenting views. There could be tensions with loved ones. Tarot message: Take one step at a time and avoid being hurried and over anxious. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 55.
LIBRA: You draw The Ace of Wands which puts you through a touching and transforming personal experience. The day could be full of disruptions and interruptions. Travel plans could go through changes. Tarot message: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far. Lucky colour: Sea green. Magic number: 26. SCORPIO:
The Priestess infuses pure and exalted influences in your life. Networking and making an effort to seek out people with similar career interests could lead to new opportunities. Your love life will be good. Tarot message: Do not expect too much from others. Lucky colour: White.
Magic number: 52. SAGITTARIUS: The Wheel of Fortune spins in some good fortune. You may be unable to concentrate on your tasks at work. Try and avoid making important business decisions. Tarot message: Lack of confidence or lack of caution can leave you in losses; so be confident. Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 43. CAPRICORN:
“The Strength” gives you self-esteem and a good feeling about yourself today. Clear the air to create a better ground for love, trust and fulfillment. Tarot message: Don’t make hasty decisions as it could lead to a waste of time and money. Lucky colour: Deep red.
Magic number: 41. AQUARIUS: Your card Judgment is reversed so be careful not to let public opinion go against you. Almost all your activity will be delightful. Those single can meet attractive prospects for dating. Tarot message: Dare to accomplish those tasks which normally take up a lot of time. Lucky colour: Bottle Green. Magic number: 32. PISCES:
The card of The Magician brings a day of change and mutation, whether you want it or not. Spending quiet time alone will help you relax.
Tarot message: You will receive a useful tip at the stock exchange which can be put to profitable use.
Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 44.
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The year ahead
If your birthday is October 20...
Under the sun sign Libra and born on October 20, you like jobs related to wide spaces, such as being a designer, antiquarian or a freelance worker. Friendship and true love are absolutely necessary. You are possessive and faithful and also in love you hate vain arguments and vulgarity. For 2011-12, the stars indicate you’re tired of waiting hand and foot on an ungrateful colleague. It’s time to draw some healthy boundaries so you won’t feel as if you’re at their beck and call. Some people are grateful for help; others will take unfair advantage of it. You’ve got to be honest with yourself; the reason you keep falling short of your goals is due to lack of diligence. In business, choose your battles and conserve your energy for what matters. This year, you’ll have new experiences which will allow you to show your good points and your flair for long-term business. If you are an entrepreneur, you’ll be very stubborn and will want to finalise a complicated and risky deal. Expenses may be more than your earnings. You will have to put your attention on savings. Try to be more regular in your profession. People around you will be helpful. Remember that your friends have a family too and sometimes blending in-laws, pals and family, especially at big gatherings like weddings, funerals and parties is so much out of their control. Mood: Cheerful if left alone. Compatible signs: Libra, Taurus. Lucky colours: Rosybrown, sea green. Lucky days: Wednesday and Thursday. Lucky numbers: 10, 15, 21, 22, 50. Lucky flower: Pink chrysanthemum. Lucky gem: South sea Pearl.
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Shahid Kapoor's Mausam garnered mixed reviews, but Shahid feels that it's one of his best performances. "Mausam is one of the best films I have ever done. It was made with a lot of love and will always remain special," he says. Here, he shares his thoughts on love. Did you reject Rockstar? I never said no to the project. Director Imtiaz Ali narrated Rockstar and Jab We Met at the same time. I chose Jab We Met, as I liked the story better. Do you regret it? Not at all! Jab We Met is still a very popular movie and people loved it. Imtiaz portrayed me as someone completely different. I believe in the philosophy 'daane daane par likha hain, khaane wale ka naam'. Jab We Met was for me whereas Rockstar is for Ranbir. And I hope Rockstar is a huge hit. Do you feel competitive? No. I just compete with myself. I want to do something different all the time. All the new guys i.e. Imran and Ranbir are great actors, but they're doing different movies. I am in the same space, although I'm a few years older. Are you dating anyone? No, I am single right now. So how do you enjoy your singlehood? I am mostly busy with work. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with friends and family. When you are single, you roam around a lot with your friends. Tell us something about Teri Meri Kahani… It's a rom-com and working with Priyanka is always interesting.
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I'm too sexy for my role
Actress Scarlett Johansson was deemed too sexy to star in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, despite her great audition, according to director David Fincher.
Fincher said he decided against giving the role of main character Lisbeth
Salander, now played by actress Rooney Mara, to the 26-year-old beauty, because people "can't wait for her to take her clothes off". "We saw some amazing people. Scarlett Johansson was great. It was a great audition, I'm telling you. But the thing with Scarlett is, you can't wait for her to take her clothes off," Fincher said. Before finally casting Mara in the role, Fincher said, he was worried he wouldn't ever find the right actress to portray the
character. "I had seen a lot of actresses. I was beginning to get to the point where I was thinking, 'Maybe conceptually you are talking about a person who doesn't exist'," he added.
— PTI
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Brosnan honoured for charity works
Hollywood actor Pierce Brosnan received an honour from St. John's Health Center Foundation in recognition of his charity work.
Trustees of the foundation handed Caritas Award to Brosnan and praised him as an individual who "demonstrates compassion and concern for others through exceptional service to the community."
"The extraordinary passion Pierce Brosnan brings to his family, his profession and his community reflects the true spirit of Caritas.
It is for this and his great friendship to St. John's that he is being honoured with the award."
A website quoted Chairperson Donna Tuttle as saying.
— IANS |
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Brand new ambassador
After all, nature gives you the face you have at twenty; it is up to you
to merit the face you have at fifty. It feels great to use something so pure and at the same time so effective. It's easy to carry so you will always find it in my handbag as well. In fact it's become a family heritage, which has been passed down by my mom to me and now I even use it for my kids."
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So, while we wonder, ponder, think about the 'thing' to talk about, the cricketer in question takes the mike and begins to share his stint in the kitchen of a five-star hotel in
Bengaluru. And everything else follows. "I learnt how to prepare mutton kebab from the chef. Although Indian food is spicy for me, it tastes so good that you are forced to eat it," says Kevin, who was in Chandigarh to promote Whyte and Macay scotch brand and of course play in the cricket match at
Mohali. His favourite picks from the Indian cuisine are chicken tikka and butter chicken! 
If you are a cricket-lover and were born on this day, you are celebrating your day with Virender Sehwag (October 20, 1978) affectionately known as
Viru, the Nawab of Najafgarh.In April 2009, Sehwag became the only Indian to be honoured as the Wisden Leading Cricketer in the World for his performance in 2008, subsequently becoming the first player of any nationality to retain the award for 2009. Virender Sehwag’s Mars is very powerful which promises a long innings in life.
Malaika Arora Khan was recently chosen as the brand ambassador of a beauty cream. When
asked about her glowing skin she revealed, "I take great pride in my skin. I'm one of those people that can't go to bed without washing my face and
moisturising it.