Hell of a time
A night for the witches, ghosts and vampires; Halloween is definitely a night for Chandigarh youngsters too!
Manpriya Khurana

The charm of the dead and the evil is as old as old school itself. It's not for nothing that for most of us Macbeth remains more of a mystery than a tragedy. Lizard's leg, owlet's wing, eye of a newt, toe of a frog, scale of a dragon and tooth of wolf…hell can be so much fun. Halloween's all the more! It's a night of mischief, an eve when the ghosts, the witches and the fairies take over.

So, while the superstitions continue to struggle with religious beliefs, the youngsters, in the meantime, are more than willing to give their thumbs up to creepy night outs.

"It's not everyday you get to dress up like that," Rohan Madaan, student, biomedical engineering, Rayat and Bahra Institute, lists on what makes Halloween's parties so much fun. He adds, "What makes them a hit and makes them stand apart from other regular parties is the obvious theme of the festival and the costume drama that follows."

Let your dark circles show, wear the whitest foundation, the reddest lenses, or the blackest of nail paint-this is the day. Unleash the devil in you and be the life of the do.

Manveen Kaur, INIFD student, recalls her Halloween party at New York. "Though I wore only a black one piece dress and a mask, it was so much fun." And for reasons many more than one. She adds, "You don't have to look your best or you have to look your worst for that matter." Like we said, it's about unleashing the devil in you. She laughs, "In fact, some girls can get the look best by going without any make up."

Let the claws grow, let the blood marks show, be the mummy or the dracula or vampire. It's not just the celebrity Halloween's parties that make for the best photo opportunities. Recalls Shahzadi Sidana, B Com student, "My friend's birthday falls on October 31, so we had a birthday party based on the Halloween theme. Getting the make-up right was the best part and also the photo session that followed it." She for her part did her research well. "I wanted to look scary as hell and look like a natural witch, so I took inspiration from Twilight series."

When we're talking about hell, there's something for everyone. Shares Nitin Dahiya, biotechnology student, "For me, downloading the spookiest of music and then playing the trick or treat games was the best part. Even post party, we stayed up late watching horror flicks and sharing ghost stories." The party may or may not get over, but the scare will definitely live on forever.

History of Halloween

In the year 835AD, the Roman Catholic Church made November 1 a church holiday to honour all the saints. Although it was a joyous holiday it was also the eve of All Souls Day, so in medieval times it became customary to pray for the dead on this date.

Another name for All Saints Day is All Hallows' (hallow is an archaic English word for saint).

The festival began on All Hallows Eve, the last night of October.

manpriya@tribunemail.com

From witches' kitchen
Ludhiana is celebrating Halloween by whipping up a host of scary dishes
Gurvinder Singh

Feeling hungry? How about trying out Devil's eggs, Spider's nest noodles, Witches' broth, Bigfoot chicken, Eyeball soup, Jack-o-Lantern breads, Monster manchurian, Bat brinjal salad, Tombstane chicken salad, if those don't send shivers down your spine?

A restaurant in MBD Neopolis Mall has rolled out a special menu and décor for four-day Halloween Day celebrations.

Halloween is celebrated on the eve of a major Catholic festival, All Saints Day on November 1. It is widely thought that Halloween originated as a Pagan Celtic festival of the dead related to the Irish and Scottish Samhian.


Photo: Inderjeet verma

Play on
Jasmine Singh

Sahe Bakshij
Rockstar: Sahe Bakshij

Evolution is a continuous process; it takes places everywhere and all the time. However, it is the changing dynamics of music that we are interested in right now.

And someone like Sahej Bakshi gives a better perspective. This young musician from Chandigarh is all set to shake up the music world with his live electro act at Eristoff Wolves Den at Bacardi NH7 Weekender music festival in Pune.

Sahej, the brain behind Dualist Inquiry, is a witness to the evolution in music, and he can't miss to mention that it has changed music significantly. He gathers notes for us.

We are ready for it

Sahej picked up the guitar when he was in the sixth grade, and ever since he has seen music getting bigger and better. A producer, guitarist and a composer, this musician doesn't think Chandigarh lacks attitude when it comes to the changing music scenario. "Concerts are a popular concept with cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Pune and Bangalore, but Chandigarh too is ready for such blasts. The music scene here has changed with people opening up to new genres. A lot of change has to come about still.

Experiment is the word

Having played close to 100 shows in its first year as a performer, Dualist Inquiry made its debut with Dualism. The group has performed at Berlin Music Week, ranked no 1 nationally in the Burn Sasha Tour Remix competition and second runner up in the MTV Submerge Ultimate Pro DJ Championship 2010. Having explored different kind of music, Sahej feels experimentation in various genres can keep music alive. "I am somewhere between playing rock and electronic. I, however, think that every genre needs newer notes and styles to make music happening," he shares.

Can't ignore technology

Technology, new software and gadgets are making a difference in music. Today, just about anyone can make music. Also, making music is no longer expensive. All you need is a laptop, and the entire studio is squeezed into it. So, technology in music has solved the problem for hiring expensive studios.

I am all ears

Natural talent is irreplaceable. But one needs to fine tune one's talent and for that one needs training. I agree that music and the knack of picking up the right kind of notes can't be taught, but there is no harm if someone tells you how to do it!

Men are mushier

A study suggests that men are three times more likely to be the first one to say "I love you" in a relationship. According to psychologist Marissa Harrison, women are actually more careful than men when it comes to romance.

This clearly contradicted previous findings, which showed that women are more expressive about how they feel, and tend to fall in love first.

A book Journal of Social Psychology revealed that men were more likely to fall in love within a few weeks, while most women took several months.

"Men reported falling in love sooner and three times as many men as women said 'I love you' first to their partners," the Telegraph quoted Professor Harrison as saying. "Perhaps women are perceived as less rational about love because they have a greater capacity for processing emotional experiences.” — ANI

chill out
Friendship knows no borders
Upasna Dutt

Upasana Dutt taking a rickshaw ride on the streets of Lahore
Upasana Dutt taking a rickshaw ride on the streets of Lahore

My trip to Lahore was a dream come true! However, it would not have been possible without my friends' support. My grandparents belonged to Lahore and I longed to see this city which was once called the Paris of Asia. And after all, it is said that the one who has not seen Lahore is not born (Jihne Lahore nae dekhya oh jamya nae).

When there is a will, there is also a way. When I came out of the Pakistan embassy in Delhi with a visa in hand, hope kindled in my heart.

So, in the third week of September, I wheeled my trolley across the no-man's land and entered the Pakistan customs. My friends were there to receive me. We got into my friend Danyal Rasheed's car and we started driving down the beautiful road with a canal flowing alongside. As soon as we entered the city of Lahore, my friend cried out, "So, now you are born!"

You will wonder how do I have so many friends in Lahore? I have been associated with Saanjhey Ranng Punjab De, a cross- border cultural group, and was also part of the Chandigarh Peace Festival, held by Yuvsatta.

Lahore is beautiful and it was still more beautiful for me because I was in the company of dear friends. My friends Imran Mani and syed Imran Taqvi took me around to the Shahi Masjid and Shahi Qilla. I found the auto-rickshaws of Lahore very colourful and charming. A happy moment came when I sat on it and posed for pictures. Another day I went to Anarkali Bazaar to buy chikan suits.

Since Danyal is a painter and film maker, he introduced me to his arty friends. We would spend hours chatting in the lovely cafes. I particularly liked the Java Cafe where I had my first fruit-flavoured sheesha. For a fine dine experience, we went to Andaaz Restaurant in old Lahore. Eating at the rooftop restaurant was a unique experience because one saw the glittering lights of Lahore.

Driving through the streets of Lahore late night was memorable. Unlike Chandigarh, Lahore stays awake at night. Having a taste of Lahore, food and all, it was time to meet my peace activist friends Maria, Azka and Farrukh and spread the message of peace between the two countries.

Ten days passed all too soon and when the time came to part it was not easy. The reason for this was that one does not know when friends will meet again because of the visa and border restrictions. Tears were flowing down my eyes. Finally on the border bidding adieu, I sobbed. At this my friend Danyal assured me, "We will be in touch. So what if there is a border on the earth, there is no border in our hearts." Other friends also promised to meet again. Inshallah!

(Dutt is an event management professional.)

Spice it up

There wouldn't be any foodie who wouldn't add Chinese food in their list of favourites. And, if it is, hop in at the newly opened Yo China outlet at Paras Down Town Square Zirakpur. With tastefully done up interiors, the place boasts of a whipped up new menu.

So, if you are a Yo China fan already Sea Food dimsums and ones with made with rice instead of maida along with new sauces for main menu is a must try. Next on line for healthier options are the Udon, better quality noodles. Japanese Tiki rice combos are other addition delectable additions on the menu. Adds Preeti Keith, executive director, Yo China, "The combos and dimsums, including a whole variety of sauces for the main menu have been added. The place is already picked up clients who look for authentic Chinese food." Refreshing mocktails are also part of the menu.

Jasmine Singh

the foodies
Three cheers!
Poonam Bindra

Bar 148 offers a wide range of malts and mocktails
Bar 148 offers a wide range of malts and mocktails

Photos: Himanshu Mahajan

Want to visit a family bar? Confused? Don't be. Bar 148, housed on the sixth floor of A-Hotel, is a place where no single entries are allowed and the bouncers ensure total safety of your family. It is a place that can cater to 150 plus people and is neatly divided by wooden partitions.

Here, one can savour the Mushroom vol au vent and spicy chicken wings along with a refreshing mocktail. Shares a young visitor to the place, Javed Grewal, "Bar 148 is not synonymous with only drinking, it has a lot more to offer."

Then there is the dance floor and a DJ is a permanent feature on the weekends. "We love to come here with our spouses and unwind," say Natasha and Reena, young executives. For the foodies, the Dum ka murg and Yakhni biryani seems a good choice while for the moderate eaters there is the Chicken Marco Polo —chicken strips marinated in mixed herbs — and mushroom Neptune, which go down well with red wine. There is also an array of malts and beer varieties to choose from. The time from 4 pm to 8pm is reserved for women and is an added attraction. On the anvil are touch screen menu cards, through which all food and drinks can be ordered from the table itself. The view of Ludhiana city from the sixth floor adds to the whole aura of the place.

A musical night

Triveni Sangeet Sabha is organising a concert on October 30. The opening artist is Bhaskar Nath, a young upcoming shehnai vadak who is a student of Pandit Jasraj of the Mewati Gharana.

Ustaad Fareed Hasan (vocalist) of renowned Dilli gharana will perform in the second half.

Hasan belongs to a musical family, his maternal grandfather was the famous Taan Samrat, Ustaad Naseer Ahmed Khan. His paternal grandfather is the sarangi maestro "Ustaad Mohammad Ahmed Banney Khan. He is currently learning the intricacies of his gayaki under

the able guidance of Ustaad Iqbal Ahmed Khan.

Venue: 242, Sector 16-A, Chandigarh 6.30 onwards. — TNS

star track
Bipasha in romcom

Bipasha Basu with Madhavan Sizzling Bipasha will be romancing Madhavan in their upcoming romantic comedy Jodi Breakers. The film is directed by Ashwini Chaudhary, the music is by Salim Sulaiman, lyrics by Irshad Kamil. Rest of the cast includes Omi Vaidya, Milind Soman, Dipanita Sharma, Mrinalini Sharma and Helen. Slated for February 2012 release, the movie has been shot at various locations in Bombay, Goa and Greece.

HOT PAIR: Bipasha Basu with Madhavan

Ajay Devgn and Kajol Holiday time

Ajay Devgn, Kajol, and their children Yug and Nysa are in Dubai for a short and private family holiday. They stayed away from the premiere of Ra.One.


HAPPY FAMILY: Ajay Devgn and Kajol

Karan Johar Title treaty

Karan Johar has got the title, Yeh Jawaani Hai Diwani, for free from Shrishti Arya. His father Yash and her father Ramesh Behl were friends so she gave him the title for free.

NAME GAME: Karan Johar

Farhan's Punjabi lessons

Farhan Akhtar plays athlete Milkha Singh in Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra's Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. He is taking lessons in Punjabi from veteran lyricist Gulzar.

Vindu, Devgn to work together Vindu Dara Singh

Vindu Dara Singh has landed a role in Ajay Devgn's I am Sardar. They both are childhood friends and Ajay recommended Vindu for the particular role.

New role: Vindu Dara Singh

Sunny Deol Sequel string

It has been 28 years since Sunny Deol made his debut in Betaab and his son Rocky might make his debut in its sequel. Rocky is 20 years old. The movie will be made under Vijeyta Films.

TIME LEAP: Sunny DeolSanjay Leela Bhansali with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.

One more baby shower

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan had a second baby shower at her parents' place in Bandra, suburban Mumbai. This was attended by men such as Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Mani Ratnam. Abhishek was by his wife's side throughout.

GOOD TIMES: Sanjay Leela Bhansali with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.

Back to nature

Ranbir Kapoor, Nargis Fakhri and director Imtiaz Ali
bonding time: Ranbir Kapoor, Nargis Fakhri and director Imtiaz Ali

Team Rockstar aka Ranbir Kapoor, Nargis Fakhri and director Imtiaz Ali spent some quality time with nature as the trio shared some fun moments among the lush green fields of Punjab recently, all by themselves!

After meeting the students of a local university in Jalandhar, the team who has been traveling on an exciting road trip across Punjab had a little time to themselves before their next venture.

We heard that Rockstar Ranbir Kapoor, Nargis and Imtiaz took off to the fields on Jalandhar all by themselves without their security team, assistants and other staff!

Sources say that an excited Nargis was running around chasing grass hoppers and taking in the sights of the beautiful green fields...Imtiaz disappeared to some place to soak in the peace... and Ranbir spent time sitting on the muddy grass surrounded by acres of land all around with cows chewing on their supper, breezy weather, totally isolated from the madness!

Says Ranbir, "We thoroughly enjoyed our peaceful time in the rustic atmosphere. It was really nice and we all felt alive being so close to nature! We had the most fantastic time in Punjab and I want to thank everyone for the warm welcome and the love and the support given to team Rockstar!" — HRM

Khan-daan

Aamir Khan
ALL THE BEST: Aamir Khan

One of 2011's most anticipated films and Shah Rukh Khan's most ambitious project Ra.One has released to packed houses. Everyone was expecting competitor Aamir Khan to say some anti-SRK words but Aamir too wished SRK all the best at a recent event.

"My best wishes for Shah Rukh and his team for RA.One. Lot of hard work and money has been put in.... I hope the effort pays off. Hope the film gets due success," Aamir said.

He continued, "It's just not a SRK film. The whole team has really worked very hard. And SRK has made something new with new effects I am really looking forward to watching Ra.One."

Talking about his co-star Kareena Kapoor he added, " Kareena is a great actress and there is no doubt about it. She is looking gorgeous in the Chhammak Chhalo and I think Arjun Rampal will be great too. After a long time we will be watching a superhero film."

Friends only?

Sandra Bullock's with Keanu Reeves
Dinner date: Sandra Bullock's with Keanu Reeves

Hollywood stars Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves enjoyed an intimate dinner together at a Beverly Hills restaurant.

The pair left separately to avoid being photographed together.

The pair have been friends since co-starring in 1994 movie Speed. They last appeared on screen together in 2006 film The Lake House.

Bullock, 47, was recently romantically linked to Ryan Reynolds, who she starred with in 2009 movie The Proposal - but she insisted he was just a friend.

The actress, who has an adopted son Louis, filed for divorce from her husband Jesse James in April 2010 after she discovered he had cheated on her with several women.

Reynolds, whose ex-wife is Scarlett Johansson, is now dating actress Blake Lively. — PTI

Chase for fame

Sean Penn
DIRECT MOVE: Sean Penn

Milk star Sean Penn is set to direct The Comedian, starring Robert De Niro and Kristen Wiig.

The film is about a washed-up comedian chasing after fame. In the film, De Niro plays a raging comic who wants to restore the fame he once enjoyed as a popular television character.

After being sentenced to community service for hitting an audience member in the head with a microphone, he meets a dazzling redhead (Wiig) who turns his life sideways.

"We're so excited to be working with such an amazingly talented group of filmmakers on this movie. It simply doesn't get much better than this, especially for us New Yorkers," said Glen Basner, whose Film Nation will launch the project.

Written by Art Linson with Jeffrey Ross, the drama will be produced by Linson, John Linson, Jon Kilik and De Niro. — PTI

I want to be the biggest star: Ranbir

Ranbir Kapoor
AIMING BIG: Ranbir Kapoor

Comedy, political thriller and drama - Ranbir Kapoor's body of work boasts of variety and that too in just four years of filmdom. The grandson of the legendary Raj Kapoor says he wants to grow with every character and be "the biggest star".

In the last four years, the chocolate boy has grown up as an actor. He entered the industry with Saawariya and did light-hearted dramas like Bachna Ae Haseeno and Wake Up Sid and it was his mature performance in Rajneeti that changed everyone's perception of him. Now with Rockstar and Barfee, he feels he is on the right path.

"I hope I can grow with every character I do. I want to be the biggest star. I want to be the best actor and I feel I am on the right path. I have been fortunate that I have worked with such talented directors," Ranbir, 29, told in an interview.

Undeterred by negative talk, he says, "I am happy with my growth and the way my career is shaping up. People have tried to pull me down with negative reviews and never-ending rumours. But that doesn't affect me at all now. "I have become numb to such stories. I have learnt how to detach myself. It doesn't bother me or my peace of mind."

The great grandson of the legendary Prithviraj Kapoor, grandson of Bollywood's one and only showman Raj Kapoor and son of yesteryear stars Neetu and Rishi Kapoor, Ranbir is finally finding a firm foothold as an actor.

His debut vehicle Saawariya (2007) was a damp squib at the box office, but Ranbir rose above the film's fate and won the Filmfare award for the best male debut.

In his short career he has pushed the envelope by doing different roles like a lover boy in Ajab Prem Ki Gajab Kahani, a casanova in Bachna Ae Haseeno and a calculative scion of a political family in Raajneeti.

When asked about his role in Rockstar, he said: "I play a Jat boy from Delhi, who lives in Pitampura. He studies in the Hindu college and plays the guitar. It is not about music, it is a love story where music is incidental...people tell him that to get the best out of you, you should go through a heartbreak. So, deliberately he falls in love..."

Essaying a jat boy was not a cakewalk for Ranbir as he couldn't find a common connect with his character.

"My character comes from a different stratum of society. He is somebody whom I haven't met in my life. So it was very hard for me to get into his skin. So I went and spent a lot of time with a jat family in Delhi. It was very important for me to observe them, to pick up certain nuances," he said.

Though he plays an aspiring musician in the film, Ranbir lacks the art in real life and would like to exercise his vocal chords some day.

"Music is the purest form to reach millions of hearts and it has always been on my side. It is a disadvantage that I can't sing. My mother tried that I get hold of it, but my teachers also confessed that I can't. It's one of my aspirations that I would want to fulfill," he said.

His grandfather was the youngest director at his time, and Ranbir too harbours the dream of wielding the megaphone. "I want to direct but the problem is I don't think I can pen my thoughts and vision on paper beautifully. I want to make something like Shree 420 or Jagte Raho. I want to make films that would be relatable, that would spread joy and love. Yes, I would also want to star in my own films without a doubt."

What's next? "I would want to do an out-and-out negative film. I want to play with characters, I want to explore myself." — IANS

chatter box
Tarun to enter Shobha Somnath Ki

Tarun Khanna Zee TV's historical show Shobha Somnath Ki will soon take a 15-20 years leap and will see many faces being replaced on the show. Yash Tonk who plays Daddachalukya didn't want to play an older guy so buzz is that Tarun Khanna has been signed on as replacement. As Zee's new show Hitler didi will air at 8 pm in few weeks, SSK will turn into a bi-weekly.

Tarun Khanna

Anupriya Kapoor Bed rest

Telly world seems to be unwell these days. And the latest one to join the list is Anupriya Kapoor aka Taani of Tere Liye. She has been ill with fever since a week and has been resting at home. She has got all her tests done to rule out any further illness.

all is well: Anupriya Kapoor

It hurtsAbigail Jain

While shooting for her Channel V show Humse Hai Life, Abigail Jain fell off a scooter and hurt herself. In the scene, she was supposed to drive a Scooty with Arjun (Yuvraj Thakur) but as it was her first time, she couldn't manage to drive it well and fell hurting her limbs. Thankfully the injuries were minor and after first aid and painkillers, she was back on her feet- ready to shoot.                           Abigail Jain

Gauri has second thoughts

In Colors' Balika Vadhu Gauri (Anjum Farooki) and Jagat (Shashank Vyas) were happy to have a baby but their friends force them to rethink the same. While Gauri's friends tell her that managing home and career wont be easy, Jagat's friend talk to him about buying a car and financial issues. Gauri who wasn't convinced about having this baby is now more confused than ever. Will this affect their relationship? 

Welcome to Facebook

Parul Chauhan The beautiful Parul Chauhan of Bidaai and Pratha fame isn't net savvy nor does she approve of the social networking sites but as there are many fake Paruls on the Internet, she has finally decided to make her presence felt.

The difference would be that though it will be an official Parul Chauhan page, she won't be managing it but her friend would be doing the honours. Sure her fans won't complain as they will have access to all her new pictures, videos and information on her life.


Parul Chauhan

Fit 'n' fine

Aditya Redijj
Be positive: Aditya Redijj

TV actor cum model Aditya Redijj better known for his character in Naa Aana Iss Des Meri Laado and currently seen in Imagine's Preeto shares his fitness tips.

I love working out

It's like a routine to me. I feel fresh and energetic after work out. Sometimes my work doesn't allow me to go to the gymnasium but then I train at home. I workout four days a week without fail and I try to put in one and a half hours in each session.

Workout regime

I make it a point to warm up before doing exercises targeting the body part that I am going to work out on. I dedicate each workout for a body part, so one day it is chest and shoulders, on other days I work on biceps and triceps followed by legs and back on the last day. I rest for two days in a week. These workouts keep changing as I don't want my body to get used to a routine. I love swimming so I hit the pool whenever I get a chance, which balances for my cardio exercise. I also make it a point to have a protein shake mixed in water after my workout as it helps in rejuvenating the muscles.

My diet

My diet is pretty simple. I try and eat every two hours. As soon as I wake up I have a glass of water followed with soaked almonds.

My happiness quotient

Peace of mind is very important to be healthy, if you are happy from within it shows. Being positive ultimately leads to a stress free life and I am an extremely positive person so that definitely works. I love my work and I never crib about it. If you are happy with what you have that's your happiness quotient, so be positive.

My Idea of relaxation

Meditation helps me be at peace and it allows me spend time with myself. It's a very special place to be in tune with oneself where no one can disturb you. It's almost magical and after meditation I feel so relaxed.

Hobbies

When you do what you like it makes you happy. So you should follow your heart and continue your hobby. Like whenever I am free I try to spend time with friends, dinners and movies, long drives, and music and my passion photography which relaxes me.

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Keep your mind on your job throughout the day. Don’t be daydream. Spend carefully. Romance could be an anti-climax. Be tactful in your criticism though emotions will be easily aroused.
Tarot message: Health of elderly member at home needs attention.
Lucky colour: Peach.
Magic number: 32 

TAURUS: Don’t make any important decision. In the office, more efforts may be expected from you without the possibility of a higher income. Take care of your stomach.Tarot message: Feel good about yourself and prepare yourself for a mental battle.
Lucky colour: Orange.
Magic number: 28

GEMINI: A call or a visit from a relative you have not seen for ages brings an opportunity to remember the past and catch up on more recent family happenings. Regular employment will run smoothly. Tarot message: You may encounter some difficulties.
Lucky colour: Pink.
Magic number: 30

CANCER: A fantastic time to contact and visit other folks. Complete your errands and catch up on outstanding paper-work. Push hard for the good results that you know you are capable of achieving. Tarot message: Open up doors that could lead you in a more lucrative direction. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 31 

LEO: A good day for household repairs. You should be lucky in your choice of entertainment. Be sure to grasp the best opportunity. Beware while buying electronic equipment. Motivation is likely to wane leaving you frustrated and angry.
Tarot message: Avoid gossip.
Lucky colour: Fuchsia.
Magic number: 64

VIRGO: Romance blooms. Do not go for fresh investments. Financial transaction comes to the fore after 1 pm. Domestic interests move at an easy pace so relax. A nagging issue at home is amicably resolved.
Tarot message: You can stabilise your financial situation.
Lucky colour: Burgundy.
Magic number: 42

LIBRA: Catching up with pending jobs is on the cards. You will shine in surroundings that are unfamiliar to you. You may be joining hands with a person older than you. Falling into bad company will be regretted. Tarot message: Over optimism could lead to mistakes.
Lucky colour: Beige.
Magic number: 59

SCORPIO: You will be amazed how much lighter you will feel when you have shed those concerns. New partnership can be formed. Try not to nag over people about minor issues. Do not find fault in others work. Friends will be helpful.
Tarot message: Do not overspend.
Lucky colour: Peach.
Magic number: 60

SAGITTARIUS: Use your status of communication boldly and with a creative expression. Patronage from powerful individuals can validate your efforts. Get on with minor repair jobs around the home. Tarot message: Leave things open ended for best results.
Lucky colour: Deep red.
Magic number: 40

CAPRICORN: You will be able to cope up with jobs that require team efforts. Be wary of a situation where it could be easy to make a mistake in haste. You will inevitably repent later. Tarot message: You will get the help you need if you ask for it. Lucky colour: Purple.
Magic number: 57

AQUARIUS: Check you car before you set out on a journey. Relatives will be sensitive and difficult to get along with. Old patients: an improvement is indicated in health. Tarot message: Wait for a while everything will get sorted out on its own. Lucky colour: Forest green.
Magic number: 52

PISCES: A secret love affair will bring you some pleasure. Make your boss aware of all the hard work that you have been putting in. Accepting accolades is a healthy experience that promotes self-confidence and raises self-esteem.
Tarot message: Unleash your creativity. Lucky colour: Pink.
Magic number: 63.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is October 30...

Born with number 2 under the Scorpio sign, you are serious in your mission to learn about others. Your curiosity is immeasurable, which may be why you are such adept investigators. You love to probe and know how to get to the bottom of things. The fact that you have a keen sense of intuition certainly helps.

.The key to success is in understanding your desires and being able to express them without making others feel uncomfortable. An alluring invitation to enter into your world of pleasure just might be irresistible to the right playmate. Relationships require more of your time this year as planets shift.

The beginning of 2012 is rife with 'challenges,' so watch your step. Postpone new business if possible, since you'll be busy putting out various fires and making adjustments in work relationships. When it comes to the latter, find the sweet spot with both giving and getting; bonds that are strengthened now come in handy later. Travel only if you really need to do so. You can still have fun if you are careful and you do not make any commitments. Positive support might fool you into thinking that you are lucky enough to take chances. One 'thing after the other,' is likely to claim and throwing money and effort work at it may be your only hope of 'keeping up.' Cooperation is poor and worse, especially from children and colleagues.

Finance: Pockets will be full. There's nothing new in your profession. It will be usual. But the unemployed may get some job. Some of you will receive good news or more money and recognition in your work. Those who have not yet received a promotion should make a strong representation and press for their rightful due. A friend 'in need' or even 'crisis' may dominate your efforts. Health will be wonderful. Exploring a new territory in love adds life to a current relationship or provides an opportunity to look for one if you're single.

Mood: Scattered and slightly stressed.

Compatible signs: Cancer, Taurus.

Lucky colours: Orange, turquoise.

Lucky days: Wednesday and Saturday.

Lucky numbers: 2, 5, 43, 50.

Lucky flower: Daffodil.

Lucky gem: Spinel - the jewellry gemstone.

Dalip Tahil (October 30, 1952) is a film, television and theatre actor who made a debut with the movie Ankur. He got his first major role in the 1980's Ramesh Sippy film Shaan. He has appeared in over 100 films mostly playing character and villain roles. On television, Tahil played roles in The Sword of Tipu Sultan and Ramesh Sippy's Buniyaad. He got international recognition when he got the role of Dan Ferreira in the popular British BBC television soap opera East Enders. He has also appeared in many Indian stage plays and internationally he is known for starring in the Andrew Lloyd Webber musicals Bombay Dreams and Evita in the London West End.





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