Healing moves
Danseuse Shushmita Ghosh, in Chandigarh for a performance, says not too many males take to dance forms in the country
Vasudha Gupta

When it comes to performing arts, there is no other state that does it better than West Bengal. Bringing this thought to Chandigarh, two artists from the land of Tagore, singer Anwesha Gupta and danseuse Shushmita Ghosh have collaborated for Saanjhi Viraasat, a cultural soiree, which celebrates the Indo-Pakistan friendship.

Talking about the focus of Bengal in the development of arts, Shushmita says, "Being born here gave me the right kind of exposure to the various forms of arts and fortunately I absorbed dance," she says. This did not stop the doe-eyed beauty from putting her education in the backseat. She went on to complete her M.Phil in sociology and did an in-depth analysis of the reducing number of male dancers in the Indian classical performing arts. Not only focusing on blending the traditional and the contemporary dance forms, the delicate danseuse has also reinvented dance for healing and therapy. "It is not for those who can dance but for those who cannot dance," she says between her talks about the very typical steps in kathak.

The danseuse first came face to face with using dance as therapy when she was pursuing M.Phil. "There are not too many schools in India where you can take it up, so I had to study for it in London," she adds. Taking it beyond the classroom, the form has been propagated in institutes and corporate houses. She has also worked as the first dance training and development officer for South Asian dances in Singapore.

Absence of written documentation of dance forms in India, guided the topic of her dissertation. "It's surprising that when it comes to the best, the position is always held by a man, whether it is dancing, singing or sometimes even cooking," she laughs. "But when it comes to dance, it is still not acceptable for the man in the family to excel in dance," she says. Running a dance school by the name of Dyuty, she is unhappy about the less number of males. Substantiating the comparative acceptability in Western forms, she says, "Jazz and tango, for example, flaunt masculinity through the body of a woman," she says.

Kathak for this dancer is a journey, a way of life. “I have never tampered with the grammar of classical dance," she says. Despite entwining contemporary with the classical, the dancer maintains the purity of Indian classical music. "Kathak is derived from katha and we had to stick to Ramayana and Mahabharata for the dances," she says.

vasudha@tribunemail.com

Sweet note

For a child to groom her skills and be a popular face in a reality show, is something that calls for attention.

Now, 17, Anwesha Dutta Gupta, also from West Bengal, is one who has taken her skills beyond a reality show and moved to Bollywood.

Apart from lending her talented voice to Golmal Returns, she is already working as a playback in Bengali, Punjabi and Nepali films.

No kidding!

With style icons like little Suri Cruise and Harper Seven being talked about in India and movies, advertisements and TV reality shows catering exclusively to children, the kidswear market is the next big thing to watch out for, say leading brands and designers.

Taruna Vasu, faculty, Pearl Academy of Fashion, Jaipur, said: "The kidswear segment in India is touted to be the most promising segment in apparel. It is growing at nearly 14-17 per cent and is estimated to be worth Rs.38,000 crore."

"The good news for the branded children's wear segment is that though presently it is worth Rs 3,000 to Rs.4,000 crore, it is growing at more than 25 per cent," Vasu added.

The growth rate has worked as an inspiration for several brands and designers. Gauri and Nainika, Gaurav Gupta, Malini Ramani, Ritu Kumar, Namrata Joshipura, Sonya Vajifdar and Payal Singhal are among those who have forayed into this sector.

International luxury brands like Lanvin, Dolce and Gabbana, Gucci, Galliano, Ralf Lauren, Roberto Cavalli and Versace are also planning to tap the market.

"Luxury brands are launching kids' lines because of the tremendous growth potential in the area. Moreover, this area is less likely to be affected during economic and financial hardship. Even during the recession, parents were willing to spend more on their children than on themselves," said Rahul Anand who runs a label called RNA. —IANS

Oh Boy! Mickey turns 83
As we celebrate the birthday of Mickey Mouse today, we ask people what makes the cartoon character so adorable still 
Jasmine Singh

While Tom Cat, drunk on bootlegged hooch, is away hunting, Mickey, Minnie, and an army of mice ransack the feline's home for food. Years and mind you good years later, Amanpreet Sekhon, 31, an interior designer from Mohali, can still recall every single scene of his favourite cartoon flick - When The Cat's Away.

And he isn't the only one to unabashedly admit the smile that the cartoon character, Mickey Mouse, brings to his face whenever he catches him jumping, ransacking or romancing on any of the cartoon channels. "Well I don't mind admitting - watching Mickey Mouse is one of my favourite past-time," he says with a grin. The infectious smile spreads as Mickey Mouse celebrates its birthday on November 18. A loved cartoon character with people across all age groups, especially children, we ask Chandigarh folks what still makes the laid-back, easy-going cartoon character the hot favourite!

Signature dialogue

For the Mickey Mouse fans, expect them to come out with something interesting like his favourite dialogues, which by the way have found a place is some of these youngsters' daily dialect. Rishab Kapoor and his three friends working with a software company EMad wouldn't stop laughing. It is a secret and they are going to share with us. Rishab takes the lead, "Aw, gee…see ya soon! We say this in a Mickey Mouse accent and voice to everyone in the office. They look at us with a puzzled look, but we know it is just Mickey's favourite dialogues that we say frequently. Harpal Kangura comes out with another dialogue—"Oh Boy!" Gosh! That sure is swell—this is also something the funny guy (Mickey) keeps repeating. It is fun to watch all this," they echo.

You so fine, you blow my mind Mickey!

The Jazz Fool, the band concert, the simple things, the Mickey Mouse club…Mickey is also up to something interestingly stupid! Seema Aggarwal, 32, a stock analyst from Chandigarh, wants us to tell the world that she is the biggest fan of Mickey Mouse. "I wanted to keep my son's name Mickey, but my husband didn't let me do that. I would bring Shantanu (her son) all kinds of Mickey merchandise from all over the world. We took him to Disneyland when he was three," she shares. "Despite trying my level best, Shantanu likes Dexter more. No issues, I love Mickey and I am going to name my second child Mickey, come what may."

The tricks and games started by a mouse went on to become the favourite for people across the globe. They don't mind watching Mickey in action with their kids or even stealing the remote to take a quick look on his tricks. "Mickey generally laughs at himself. He isn't insane like Donald Duck, but he is kind of easy-going. The real laughter comes from the actions of those playing against him," adds Manpal Randhawa, 42, banker from Zirakpur. "My wife loves Minnie. We still debate whether she is her girlfriend or wife," he adds.

Online fun

Mickey Mouse is on Facebook! A fan page with 78,445 followers share stories and trivia on Mickey Mouse. The cartoon character is also popular with online games. Disney Channel celebrates the birthday of Mickey Mouse with special episodes of Mickey Mouse Clubhouse on Disney Junior. The channel would also premier a special song.

Did you know?

Mickey was born out of necessity when Walt discovered he had lost the rights to his previous character - Oswald the Lucky Rabbit.

Released at the Colony Theatre in New York on November 18, 1928, this date is used as the official birthday of Mickey Mouse.

1933 was the year of release of the original Mickey Mouse watch. It was manufactured by a company called Ingersoll and sold for $3.25. They also made a pocket watch at the same time, selling for $1.50.

Mickey's first appearance in a feature film and perhaps his most famous role was in the 1940 release of Fantasia.

In 2004, Mickey and the Gang starred in two brand new feature length animations released directly to video. The first title - The Three Musketeers - was launched in August 2004 while the second - Twice Upon a Christmas - released in December 2004, featuring five all new stories with Mickey, Minnie, Donald and the gang. This was Mickey's first-ever 3D CGI (computer generated imagery) cartoon.

2004 marked the start of the celebrations behind "Mickey's 75 Years of Fun and Laughter"

Clutch to fashion
From Over-sized clutches in vibrant colours to animal print bags to casual sling bags — the winter collection of handbags is all about making a bold style statement
Jigyasa Kapoor Chimra 

Fashion is an idea that changes every season. And one of the most important accessories that can lend a unique finish to one’s persona is the super-stylish handbag. So, if you are in the mood to welcome the winter with style then you must pay some attention to this fashion accessory.  

Beginning with the hottest trend, clutches are definitely in. But mind you, they are not the same clutches that were in fashion last year. Available in a variety of styles and colours, the best thing about clutches this season is they are oversized. “Clutches have always been in fashion, but it’s the oversized clutch that is the trend for the season. Envelope clutch and satchels too are a hot trend. The adorable classic ones are in. And this season they come in a variety of colours, prints and patterns so you can pair them with almost any outfit,” says an employee of Mochi in sector 17. 

Animal print and fur handbags too are ruling the fashion runways. From snake to leopard and python skins, wild life is leaving their marks on the handbags this season. “What’s interesting about these prints is that they come in all possible colours, from bright green to neutral crème. However, if animal prints are simply not your thing, you can go for the ultra modern, fur bags made of faux rabbit or fox fur. These posh handbags will definitely add zing to your winter wardrobe,” says designer Sabah Khan. 

Well, that’s not all. Colour-block bags is another trend that is catching on fast. These are the bags that come in multi, bold and vivid hues. One of the best ways to add colour to your wardrobe, these bags are definitely not for the careless category as the colours need some careful co-ordination with clothes.

“Handbags are without a doubt one of the most stylish and practical accessories modern women use on a daily basis. Though each new season offers a variety of style options, the winter season of 2011 comes with a lot of bold and interesting choices. Envelope bags are a classic choice that will allow you to stand out this cold season as it can be a perfect choice for those who like minimalistic designs as well as for those who are in need for an accessory that attracts attention without being overpowering. Sling bags too will mark the fashion trend in a big way this season. And it’s the functional and very practical look of these bags that make them a great choice for casual outfits. Combining a great variety of textures as well as fabrics, the style choice of these bags remains to be modern,” says footwear designer Swati Mehrotra.

With a great palette of choices that exist nowadays, updating your style becomes only a matter of creativity. So get ready to make a memorable fashion statement.

it’s rocking
Double the fun

Subah Hone Na De (Tu Mera Hero)

The latest songs, Tu Mera Hero and Subah Hone Na De, from the movie Desi Boyz, are two different versions of the same song. The songs have a sweet and romantic touch, thanks to Mika and Shefali Alvares who have sung the songs. One feels like listening to them over and over again. The video features Rocco (Akshay Kumar) and Hunter (John Abraham) wooing away girls at a stripper show and is all colourful.

Happy tune

This song definitely lifts my spirits. I hear it very morning to start my day on a cheerful note.

Rajeev Kakkar, BA 1st year, GGDSD College

Naughty, naughty

The lyrics are cute and naughty and Mika’s voice adds a bhangra touch to it. These tracks have a different appeal of fun and entertainment. The lyrics are little vulgar but it is sung in nice manner

Kamya Kapur, B.Com 2nd year, DAV College

Gets repetitive

The two tracks being similar are a little repetitive and confusing for the listener, but you still enjoy listening to these. Mika and Shefali’s voice complement the lyrics of the song.

Mahima Sharma, employee at Airtel

(As told to Sabia Talwar)

the ‘in’ side
Sukhmani
Pillar of strength

Columns are a necessity in a building’s construction, but sometimes their placement can be such that decorating that room can be quite a problem. By using the right designing techniques, you can easily incorporate a column into a room’s décor.

A column’s presence can be minimised by painting it the same colour as that of the walls in the room.

If your wall has two columns in it, you can fill the space between them by building a book shelf, cabinets, a fireplace or use the space for a home theatre system.

The surface of the columns can also be covered with floor to ceiling mirrors. This will not only reflect the surroundings and make the room appear more open, but will make the columns seem to disappear.

Wood paneling can be done on columns and this blends well with both traditional as well as modern décor. In a modern décor you can add a metallic veneer along with a wood finish one.

If you have a large area like a basement, and can afford to lose some space, simply build a wall across the face of the column.

Depending on your décor style, you can build a box around it and add a base and crown molding matching to the rest of the room, to make it look like a part of the room’s décor. If the room has wainscoting, use it on the pillar as well.

Try and be innovative and build a seating arrangement around the column.

Hang decorative items on a column. You can also install spot lights on the floor that will highlight the decorative column.You can install shelves that wrap around the column to hold books and other knick knacks.

If you cannot make it blend in, make it stand out as a decorative element of the room. Paint it in a contrasting colour or clad it with mosaic tiles or a beautiful wall paper.

(Sukhmani is Chandigarh-based interior and landscape designer)

Count on Dracula
Fight ageing with your own blood using Dracula therapy

For ages, blood sucking has been the preserve of vampires, but medical science has now put ‘dracula therapy’ to good use - to fight ageing. A test tube full of your own blood could be used to get rid of wrinkles, say doctors.

“Dracula therapy, as the name suggests, is a therapy that uses blood. We extract nearly 15-20 ml (a test tube) of blood from the person’s body, and after processing it with growth hormones in a laboratory, the blood is injected on the person’s face,” AS Bath, senior consultant and head of department of plastic and cosmetic surgery at BLK Super Speciality Hospital here, said.

Platelet rich plasma (a component of blood) is extracted from the blood, after which drugs are used to release a growth factor in it. The fresh solution is then injected on the face using micro-needles after applying local anaesthesia. “The concept is that your own blood with additions of growth hormones will help stimulate the growth of fresh cells, DNA repair, heal scars and treat wrinkled skin without any chemicals or surgical procedure. And that too there are just three sittings required without any hospitalisation,” Bath explained.

Apart from being non-invasive, the technique also reduces the chances of allergic reactions; as the body gets back its own blood, allergic reactions are not there.

Introduced in Britain by London-based French cosmetic doctor, Daniel Sister, the technique has found many enthusiasts in India, say doctors. Women who had been opting for botox and laser therapy now have a painless technique to vouch for, feel experts. “We have conducted eight such therapies in the last three months. Botox paralyses the facial muscles to stop wrinkles. But with dracula therapy, your own blood is used to replenish the damaged skin cells, making the skin look baby-soft and natural,” said Datinderjeet Singh Tulla, consultant at the department of plastic and cosmetic surgery at the same hospital.

A single sitting for the therapy costs around Rs.25,000. And the trend is catching up among women in their 30s who have the urge to look their best in the social space.

“It would be wrong to say that it’s just a trend in the West to try cosmetic surgery. In urban India, people now want to fight ageing and score with looks wherever possible,” Tulla says, adding that his clients have ranged from a hospital nurse to a documentary filmmaker.

— IANS

Ray of hope
Laser can remove unwanted hair faster, more comfortably and reliably than any other method. In men or women alike, laser hair reduction is an alternative to plucking, shaving, waxing, electrolysis or chemical depilatories 

Age, sex, weight, metabolism, hormones, genetics, medications and location of hair can affect hair growth. The growth of hair occurs in three phases. The majority of hair is in an active growth phase is called anagen phase at any given time. During this phase, the hair has an abundance of melanin and responds best to laser. ND-YAG laser system is recommended for permanent hair reduction in Indian/Asian skin by the American Academy of Dermatologist and is virtually free of major side effects.

Laser removes hair most effectively in the anagen or active growth phase. Laser emits a powerful beam of light that is absorbed by the melanin pigment in the hair follicles. It works for a fraction of a second to vaporise the pigment while minimising damage to the surrounding skin. In women, most commonly done areas are upper lip, chin, side-locks, underarms, bikini area, arms and legs. While in men cheeks, neck below beard, shoulder, back and chest are popular areas. Some patients with thick growth all over body prefer full body treatment packages. Eyebrows can also be permanently given shape with laser.

Because all hair in a treated area may not be in the active growth phase, multiple sessions of laser treatment is necessary to remove hair. The numbers of treatments required depends on skin and hair color, density and coarseness of the hair, as well as the specific area to be treated. Usually maximum results are realised in four to eight sessions. They are usually spaced four to six weeks apart above the neck region and 6-8 weeks apart below the neck region to give 80-90 per cent hair reduction. There might be some degree of redness which usually disappears in few minutes. Very rarely there could be brownish pigmentation at some spots, which usually fades in few days.

Sometimes age and hormones may cause other hair follicles to start growing in the treated area, which may need touchup sessions later on.

Since the energy goes to darker pigmented areas, laser works best for people with the light skin and dark hair. Individuals with dark skin require more treatments at lower energy levels to prevent complications. Grey, white and blonde hair do not respond as well to laser, since there is no dark pigment in the hair follicles. It is best to get laser hair reduction done in desired areas before hair start greying.

Dr Kapoor is a senior cosmetic surgeon at Anti-clock Age Reversal Clinic 
& Medispa, Chandigarh.

In the creative zone
In Chandigarh on a personal visit, Pammi Somal, the celeb-journalist-turned-filmmaker, talks about her new film Na Jaane Kab Se
Mona

“When making movies, I feel like a goddess as the characters and their fate lie in my hands,” says Pammi Somal, happy, excited and nervous, all at the same time, on the eve of her second film’s release!

In Chandigarh on a personal visit on Wednesday, Pammi Somal, the celeb-journalist-turned-filmmaker, talks about the trip that her new film Na Jaane Kab Se took her on and the life that has been.

“I am nervous as well as excited that my second film is ready for release,” says Pammi, who got great reviews for her first Bollywood film Mummy Punjabi. The movie didn’t do well at the box-office and she owns up her mistake. “I released Mummy Punjabi with Bodyguard. How could I even think that I will be able to challenge ‘the’ Salman Khan!” says Pammi. She has learnt her lesson well, for Na Jaane Kab Se hits the screens without any major release this Friday.

A Yash Chopra fan, Pammi sees her future in making romantic films only. Na Jaane Kab Se, a romantic comedy, is about a tragedy king who meets a drama queen — followed by the clash of values. The lead is played by Garry Gill and Amrita Prakash in the movie that’s been shot in Punjab, Leh-Ladakh and of course Mumbai.

Ask Pammi what makes her movie different from the barrage of romcoms that hit the screens on Fridays, and the story writer, director and producer of Na Jaane Kab Se says with child-like innocence and confidence: “I think it’s very fresh. From dialogues to the locales, everything has a newness about it.”

Everything that Pammi does comes from the heart and probably that’s how the change from being a journalist to a film-maker has been a smooth journey.

“Even while writing as a journalist, my stories were a form of screenplay and that’s what I enjoy the most while making films as well. However, then I would write about other people, now I have the freedom of creating them,” says Pammi who is already in the pre-production stage of her next movie, a romantic thriller this time.

mona@tribunemail.com

Chandigarh connection

Pammi Somal has spent part of her growing up years in Chandigarh and this is the city she is still immensely attached to. Here on a day’s visit to wish her uncle on his 81st birthday, Pammi says, “I wait for any pretext to come here.” On her Chandigarh trips, an outing to University Student Centre and Sector 17 piazza are a must. “Nowhere one gets the softy like the one in Sector 17,” she says. Her love for the city has appeared in her first movie ‘Mummy Punjabi’, which was based on a family from Chandigarh. “Chandigarh will make for the backdrop of my future projects as well,” says Pammi before she heads to the city she calls home now, Mumbai!

Star track

I hold the ninth Bachchan of the family: Big B 

With the birth of Aishwarya and Abhishek’s daughter, megastar Amitabh Bachchan has welcomed the ninth Bachchan in the family which was started by his father, noted poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan.

The 69-year-old actor has a younger brother Ajitabh, his two children, who has two children and is already a grandfather to his daughter, Shweta’s two children.

“Dad! I hold the 9th Bachchan in my hands... this family that you started. Amitabh, Ajitabh (brother), Shweta (daughter) Nilima and Namrata (Ajitabh’s daughters), Abhishek (son), Naina and Bhim (Shweta’s children) and now this beauty, unnamed so far,” an emotional Big B wrote on his blog.

“I hope you and Ma look upon us from above and bless us and your latest addition. To carry forward what then may have seemed a somewhat limited expectation. The tradition continues and may it prosper by your love and your aashirvaad (blessing),” Bachchan wrote.

Aishwarya, 38, gave birth to a baby girl yesterday morning at a private hospital in Mumbai.

The National award winning actor, who has become a paternal grandfather for the first time, was all praise for the new angel in his life.

“The soft innocence of nature rests in my arms, oblivious of what else happens around her. Occasionally she opens her large and what looks now to be eyes of the lighter hue, which those that have dealt with similar, know shall change with time.

“Often the gentlest of smiles quiver across her pouted upper lip, the shut eyes bringing expression through the brows and the settling down to that dream she must dream. Her head covered in the littlest of head gear she will ever adorn, snuggles into her mini quilt of varied colors dominated by the pink softness of its material,” he added. — PTI 

Shahana’s special move 

Shahana Goswami has been seen in many films. Although, she has been playing supporting roles, she has always garnered appreciation for her performance. She was last seen in Ra.One and received a lot of praise.

Challenging roles

I enjoy everything. I prefer doing hatke roles. Though I am offered commercial cinema more, I love being part of offbeat films. I want to be part of a film which has a strong narrative and a strong story.

You seem to have become close friends with many actors and they can’t stop praising you…

Really? That’s so sweet of them. But I think the new age actors are very down to earth. I have worked with Abhishek, who is a super entertainer. SRK is a man you can always look up to; he has his own charisma. I am good friends with Deepika and Kareena. They are great actresses and look great as well.

You seem to have lost oodles of weight?

Yes, for I was supposed to lose weight for Ra.One and it was the best time to be more disciplined about life. I wanted to have a fitter and toned body. I don’t believe in dieting so I worked out to get fitter.

You are also working with Deepa Mehta in Midnight’s Children. Tell us something about that?

I am totally thrilled to be a part of this film. My character ages from a 19-year- old to a 65-year-old woman. I read the book a long time back but read it again after being approached for the film. I love the way my character grows in the film. Shooting is almost done and some post production work is left. I am eagerly waiting for the release.

Are you also a part of Heroine?

Yes, I am very much in Heroine. Right now, Madhur is working on the script once again so we will start shooting soon. It’s a challenging role for me.

Saifeena’s house hunting

After Saif Ali Khan announced that he would get married to Kareena Kapoor by March, it is rumoured that the couple is looking for a house in Bandra.

A source said, “Saif and Kareena are looking for a place, where they will shift after they are married. They already have a place in Bandra, but they want a new place after marriage.

Body basics

Ranveer went on a strict 48 hours diet regime and stayed hungry for nearly two days to get the perfect six packs! And the amazing results are there for all to see!

DIET chart: Ranveer Singh

Who’s that girl?

Ranbir Kapoor has been in many relationships but he says one whom he has loved has never loved him and that person is not an actress nor even a model but a well-known person. We wonder who?

 

Film on Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson’s life could be turned into a film, with early discussions between his estate and interested parties already underway.

The late singer’s estate executor John Branca has had discussions with Ghostbusters director Ivan Reitman and Up in the Air producer Tom Pollock regarding the possibility of making a film about his life.

Pollock confirmed that the film is in the early stages as now the trial of Dr Conrad Murray, who was found guilty of his involuntary manslaughter earlier this month, is over. — PTI

A woman’s journey

Bollywood actress Vidya Balan is leaving no stone unturned to promote her film The Dirty Picture. Here is a short ooh-la-la chat with the actress.

Ooh-la-la: The song

The song’s become a rage! I made Mr Bachchan dance to this song. It has a retro touch to it and is perfect for the film. I think Nasseer ji and I have a great chemistry. Even my father liked the song.

Credit goes to…

Bappi Lahiri who sang it, makes the song special. It sounds retro. He has sung it in his own way and I really like it. I have met him a few times; he is so adorable and has his own unique style of singing.

Lessons in chemistry

I think my chemistry with each actor is different. If you look at me and Emraan, it’s more of a devil-like chemistry. With Naseer ji, it’s more of a kind of lust and my chemistry with Tusshar has a kind of innocence about it. I think the credit goes to director Milan Luthria.

Women’s era

It’s great to see films made on women in Bollywood these days, and I am proud to be a part of such films. I think Fashion, No One Killed Jessica and now The Dirty Picture have changed the scenario. Women play an important part in this universe, so to make a good film on them is not difficult. I hope now we will see more women-oriented films in the future. My character in Dirty Picture is very exciting. She has several shades—like a rainbow. It’s not just about lust and sex; it’s also about the emotional journey of a woman.

Favourite films

Recently, I watched Rockstar and I loved the film. I think Imtiaz Ali is a great director and I wish to work with him someday. I also watched That Girl In Yellow Boots and it’s really good.

Wish list

I would love to work with every actor, but I would love to romance Mr Bachchan onscreen once. It’s like my dream, so if Cheeni Kum is ever made again I would love to play Tabu’s part! He has a kind of aura around him which motivates every actor to give their best.

Bieber’s White Christmas 

Teen pop sensation Justin Bieber has said he will be performing for the Obamas at the annual Christmas in Washington show next month. While promoting his Under the Mistletoe album here, the 17-year-old not only discussed his fans in the White House, but revealed that he’ll be performing for the US first family and a number of prestigious government officials.

“His kids really like me. I’m actually doing Christmas in Washington, and, I’m performing for him and the whole Senate and all that,” said Bieber.

The Baby hitmaker previously performed at the event in 2009, sharing the stage with the likes of Usher, Mary J Blige and Sugarland. He also took the stage at the White House’s annual Easter Egg Roll in 2010. —PTI 

Chatter box

Wedding diaries

Actor Kinshuk Mahajan’s wedding in Delhi over the last weekend was a well attended one. Not only did his relatives and family gather but so did his friends from the world of television. Sanaya Irani came with boyfriend Mohit Sehgal, Angad Hasija and Alok Nath represented the Bidaai team. Sanaya, Mohit and Angad danced their heart out in his baarat and while clicking snaps on stage even joked that as all of them were actors, someone should say action before clicking.

Novel concept

Rakshanda Khan loves it. She plays the role of a lawyer in Siddharth Tewary’s serial Phulwa on Colors and says, “My character Roshni is definitive and direct. As I am selective about my work, I am glad I got the chance to be a part of a show like Phulwa. The character and the story both have novelty.” Sargun Mehta who plays Phulwa too had kind words for her senior and the duo have a mutual admiration society going on.

True Lies: Rakshanda Khan

Child politics

Replacements in tellyworld aren’t new but child actor Ulka Gupta is upset that she was replaced without an intimation. Ulka, who gained fame with her performance on Zee’s Jhansi Ki Rani, was signed on to play the Ginni, Shweta Tiwari’s daughter, in DJ’s upcoming show Parvarrish. But she was replaced by Aashika Bhatia who played the lead in Imagine’s Meera. She wasn’t in the show anymore.

Face value

Shakal Pe Mat Ja is an out and out comedy based on mistaken identities. A story of four young boys who get caught as suspects at the Delhi International airport on the first anniversary of the British Sub Way attacks. Co-produced by Hrishitaa Bhatt, this laugh-riot stars Saurabh Shukla, Raghubir Yadav, Aamna Sharif, Umang Jain along with Shubh, Chitrak, Pratik and Harsh. Rest assured, this situational comedy will pack in enough twists and turns to keep the viewers glued to their seats. — Dharam Pal

Healthy ways

Be it television or Bollywood, Chetan Hansraj has managed to look fit everywhere. The actor is a fitness freak who loves to eat healthy food. We caught up with Chetan to reveal his fitness mantra. Here’s what he says…

Six pack abs

It’s a must for all actors or models aspiring to be actor to have a hot body and six-packs. Earlier, you just needed to be fit. I think it’s great that everyone in the industry has become conscious about their body and fitness.

Yoga and meditation

I do more of cardio exercises. I also do yoga and follow meditation. Cardio boosts my energy level tones my body, yoga makes me athletic and meditation gives me inner peace of mind. I love working out. Not because it’s my profession but I have been working out since I was 18.

Regular workouts

It is tough to workout on a regular basis while shooting for anyone, especially if you’re doing a daily show. I like to workout early in the morning, so if I am doing a show that needs me to be not so early on the sets, it becomes easy for me to workout more.

Eating habits

I usually concentrate on my eating habits. As an actor, we have to travel a lot too, it is unlikely that you would be gymming when in a different city. So, if you keep good and healthy eating-habits, it helps. — HRM

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is November 18...

Your birthday on the 18th shows that you’ve great instincts about family matters. A relative who has been acting strangely needs professional help. There’s no shame in getting assistance for a stubborn problem. By offering this loved one your full support, you’ll pave the way for their recovery. So as long as the method brings results, it’s worth pursuing. Your friends need your support. It’s a good time for you to show those who mean the most to you what you can do for them. There is a humanistic or philanthropic approach to business circumstances in which you find yourself. Forge ahead in a spirit of goodwill and watch for an opportunity in disguise around March. Banking, bill paying, money handling, speaking too soon and being intimidated by emotions are likely ‘mistakes.’ Finish all projects-personal or career or risk extra expense/work. Focus on the future not the past. Fun gatherings and travel are likely. New career opportunities are in store for many like in fashion designing, ad film making, music industry or in any other creative profession. They will gain fame and fortune. Those suffering from general weakness and headaches would find some relief. The time is right to play the game of love without having to keep score.

Mood: Optimistic, Compatible signs: Virgo, Capricorn. Lucky colours: Maroon, White. Lucky days: Monday and Saturday. Lucky numbers: 4, 7, 18, 22, 45. Lucky gem: Coral. Lucky flower: Bachelor button.

Zubeen Garg. (November18, 1972, Jorhat) is a singer and composer from Assam, India, in the Bollywood and Assamese music scene. He plays dhols, dotora, mandolin, keyboard and various percussion instruments. He was named after the great composer Zubin Mehta and used their Gautra as his surname. 

 

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: You start the day on a philosophical mood. Do not jump to conclusions in haste. Genius is simply being able to look at a problem from new angles, so apply a little of your brainpower for a problem. Tarot message: Must learn to accept responsibility for others. Lucky colour: Mauve. Magic number: 25.

TAURUS: You will enjoy socialising, meeting new people, and fulfilling commitments to those you love. Marital difficulties can be eased through a mutual friend who might be able to put the issue into perspective for both of you. Tarot message: Your determination to succeed will pay dividends. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 44.

GEMINI: A personal project may have to be put aside for the sake of a social commitment. Cooperation is the only way that you will get what you want without stepping on too many toes. Tarot message: Use your instinct to get into the top circle of power. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 30.

CANCER: Money problem will continue. A spiritual approach to the day will suit you best. Start off with yoga and meditation and silence. Check if you are making progress towards achieving your goals or dreams. Tarot message: Do not divest assets or transact in uncertain matters. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 47.

LEO: The accent would certainly appear to be on work more than pleasure. Students suffer from lack of activities. Start making the changes you keep talking about, a new diet, an exercise regimen, quitting smoking or dating a new person. Tarot message: Emphasis is on spiritual needs. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 51.

VIRGO: The card “The Lovers” signifies that a friendly and helpful atmosphere surrounds you. Have a massage and facial while you are out. Pamper yourself. You may clash with a partner or friend over a difference of opinion. Tarot message: You gain by being practical; don’t be emotional. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 63.

LIBRA: Don’t be secretive of your aims, and they will be realised. A romance might have reached the stage of moving in together, merging your assets and discussing marriage. Be practical. Tarot message: You will be happier if you retain the fruit of your hard work. Lucky colour: Metallic Grey. Magic number: 52.

SCORPIO: Keep a clear mind, as you are likely to face too many irons in the fire. Colleagues can sound knowledgeable, but in fact they only have half the picture. Tarot message: Don’t waste an opportunity by not exploiting a contact even if it is from your past. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 50.

SAGITTARIUS: Give attention to little jobs today. Taxation matters will be adjourned. Do whatever you must to calm your nerves. Jogging, walking and helping another human being are all effective tasks. Tarot message: Consolidate your gains instead of throwing security to the winds. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 56.

CAPRICORN: Your creativity flows. A class in music, dance or theatre will put you in the company of like-minded people. Focus on your heart and you will get what you want. Tarot message: Frankness and ability to state the truth are your strong points. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 33.

AQUARIUS: Unstable influences suggest uncertainty. You may bow out of a social event to spend more time with your loved ones. Take a moment to be grateful for those small things that make everyday life so full and rewarding. Tarot message: Avoid frictions with business partners. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 41.

PISCES: Any change made at work or in your job brings favourable results. Do not take people on face value. Powerful emotions can ruffle calm. A sudden shock, such as an exorbitant utilities bill, can shake your sense of security. Tarot message: Your own aims, ideas, opinion matter a lot. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 30.





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