Survivor’s tale
Author Minakshi Chaudhry, in Chandigarh to take part in a breast cancer awareness meet, shares how she found sunshine among the darkest clouds
Mona

You live only once, count your blessings and everything shall pass…are some adages that we use in everyday life without giving much thought to their real meaning or worth. An avid traveller and writer Minakshi Chaudhry has fully grasped the meaning of these and more…

A breast cancer survivor, Minakshi has gone through the regular phases that a cancer patient does - shock, denial, why me and what after…and, has emerged not only richer in experience, but, also, as an inspiration for the rest with the same fate.

Her latest book (she has penned nine already) Sunshine: My Encounter With Cancer, recounts her personal challenging struggle and perspective on the deadly disease.

“I believe that in a time when each one of us has someone, if not in family then some acquaintance struggling with cancer, we need to bring it out of the closet and arm ourselves with the means to fight it back,” says Minakshi, in Chandigarh for an interaction with the like-minded on Saturday.

She is a survivor and the ones she can’t thank enough are her family and friends. In fact, a section of the book is dedicated to them! “When it strikes, the patience anyways loses sense. At that time small gestures by the doctor, family members and friends go a long way in ensuring good morale,” says Minakshi.

Sunshine is an honest attempt by the writer as well as the survivor in Minakshi to create awareness about this nearly fatal disease. “As an experience, events are fleeting, but, writing makes them permanent,” says the author who after being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008 is back to her normal routine resuming her writing and travelling!

The writer of Ghost Stories of Shimla Hills, Whispering Deodars, Love Stories of Shimla Hills, Guide to Trekking in Himachal Pradesh Over 65 Treks and 100 Destinations and more, is all set with another set of ghost stories and is in the middle of writing about healers in Himachal Pradesh and another fiction that explore mysteries, crime and the supernatural.

The survivor in her urges women to take out time for the self from the grinding routine of work, family and household chores to get regular screening.

“Some forms of cancer are curable if detected in stage one, and, that makes all the difference,” smiles Minakshi.

Sunshine, a 200-pages book is published by Rupa and available for Rs 195. Part of the proceeds from the book will go in ensuring awareness camps on cancer organised by SEWA trust that Minakshi is part of!

mona@tribunemail.com

 

A stitch in time…

The cancer awareness event on Saturday at Himachal Bhavan-28 brought forward passionate responses by those present. While some of the survivors (they have a club) are source of inspiration for others, one of the very worthy idea floated was men taking active part in awareness programmes. “How about men presenting their moms and wives a mammogram appointment on special days,” says one, and, by the sheer number of cases of cancer increasing in society, why not?

Scent of a hooker

Lady Gaga says her new perfume may have been based on blood and semen, but it smells like an ‘expensive hooker’. Coty Beauty, which is the firm behind the fragrance, has not yet confirmed the details behind the name of the pop queen’s creation.

But given Gaga’s fondness for the Monster association as her fans are called Little Monsters, and has given herself the moniker Mother Monster, as well as tattooed the name on her arm, so the name seems a likely one.

The 25-year-old singer signed the license in September 2010, and allegedly requested that the scent smell of “blood and semen.” The Born This Way hitmaker’s request was for the fragrance to be based on the molecular structure of the bodily fluids, not the actual aromas themselves. “You get the after-feeling of sex from the semen and the blood is primal,” says Gaga. —ANI

Song of the soul
Sabia Talwar

She was into singing since her childhood. Thanks to the encouragement she got by her father late Ramakant Kaikini. Anupama Deshpande, a famous playback singer, got her break in 1983 when she started dubbing for films.

Her talent was recognised at an early stage and she won the Filmfare Award in 1985 for the song Sohni Chinab Di from the movie Sohni Mahiwal. In a tête-à-tête with the talented singer who was in Chandigarh for Sai Sangram programme…

Down the memory lane

I have a lot of memories attached with the Mehboob Studio in Mumbai. When I started recording, the first reaction from the music directors was that my voice had something different and it suited the actress. All my dubbings and recording were done there. I have lent my voice to songs like Tum mere ho for the movie Tum Mere Ho, Lagi aaj saawan ki fir woh jhadi hai for Chandni and Humko aaj kal hai intezaar for Sailaab.

The journey

It has been a very demanding journey from day one and I have made my name in the industry only and only through hard work. And, whatever is in my destiny, I have received that.

Being versatile

Being trained in classical music, I also specialise in Rabindra sangeet and Nazrul sangeet in Bengali. I have also sung for many Bhojpuri movies. A singer should always keep exploring and should never remain restricted.

Devotional side

I have sung many devotional songs and the most memorable one is Preeti Prabhu Ki, which has bhajans by Surdas and Kabir. I feel one should give one’s hundred per cent to whatever one does. When I sing a devotional song, I feel I am connected with god.

Then and now

The present generation has a lot of talent which can be seen in the musical reality shows. However, there are so many latest technologies for recordings that one does not even need to sing melodiously anymore. The songs of yesteryear had real music which could be hummed.

Classically endowed

I took training in classical music and I would like to tell especially the budding singers that training in classical music is very important.

sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com

When silence speaks
Nainsukh a film based on 18th century Pahari painter directed by Amit Dutta, produced by Dr Eberhard Fischer and based on the book by Dr B N Goswamy took the viewers into the world of images where words became redundant
Nonika Singh

Once upon a time (to be precise, between 1710 and 1778) lived an exceptional painter Nainsukh whose art was the very embodiment of refined simplicity. And the same subtlety and finesse of his works relived on Friday evening in a film Nainsukh. In a screening organised by Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi and Pro Helvetia- Swiss Arts Council at the Government Museum Auditorium-10, audiences were led into a quiet world of aesthetics where silences were evocative and understatements emphatic.

Each scene of the film was created like a painting wherein episodes collated and reconstructed the paintings. Thus Nainsukh's art spoke for itself, without expert comments, sans interjections of any kind. Art anthropologist Dr Eberhard Fischer, the producer of the film, remarked that it was an intentional goal to make viewers focus on the images and not be distracted.

Nainskukh, the 18th century painter, was chosen as the subject because of Dr Fischer's long association with eminent art historian Dr BN Goswamy on whose book Nainsukh the film is based and to whom the film is dedicated to as well. Like Dr Goswamy, Dr Fischer who has done extensive work on traditional Indian art, is partial to Nainsukh. The most remarkable thing about his art, according to Dr Fischer, is that it exuded warmth and brimmed with sophisticated simplicity.

But simplistic it certainly wasn't. Same goes for the film directed by talented director Amit Dutta in which opulence may have been dispensed away with but not the authenticity. Taking a cue from the painting not only was the neckpiece worn by Raja Balwant Singh crafted at Udaipur in exactly the same fashion but even the throne. Attention has been paid to each and every single detail right from the text of the music to the ragas chosen to the casting. And guess what; the actor Manish Soni playing the part of Nainsukh is actually a leading miniature painter of the country.

Dr Fischer, without a doubt, is suitably impressed by the traditional Indian art and has worked in Orissa and many other states. Those who feel traditional Indian art lies in the labyrinths of anonymity, he disagrees completely. With force of conviction says he, "Behind every extraordinary work of art stands an exceptional personality. The temple sculptures of Hoysala period have been signed by at least 400 sculptors. No art is anonymous. Only we don't know who the artist is."

And yes, indeed it is his job not only to find that artist but also celebrate him. Were he a few years younger he would have loved to make a film on Nainsukh's sons who he deems the greatest. Right now he is toying with the idea of making one on a painter of Mewar style from Udaipur. To those who question the relevance of art that blossomed under the patronage of erstwhile rulers, he says, "Men like Nainsukh were art directors of their times. Holding the patronage they received against them is unfair as well as unwarranted for those were such times. Moreover, his is art that was not a spectacle, nor meant to impress. It was humane and intimate which records the relationship of the patron with the artist. But mind you, there is no propaganda in his art." That's exactly why there is none in the film too that rises to meet the vision of the artist, becomes one with the artist and translates into a work of art.

nonika@tribunemail.com

 

Dr BN GoswamyWritten word vs cinematic experience

Paths of writers and filmmakers often cross bitterly. Dr BN Goswamy on whose book the film is based, may not agree with a few things shown in the film like the conflict between Nainsukh and his brother However, he hails it as wondrous cinematic experience.

                                                                        Dr BN Goswamy

A still from NainsukhMissing links

To those who may have wondered aloud as to why the film that traces the journey of Nainsukh from Guler to Jasrota focuses only on the times he lived in and reveals few biographic details, here is the answer. Dr Eberhard Fischer says, "That's all we had. To know the inner life of Nainsukh the person was not possible."


A still from Nainsukh

Party all night!
Sabia Talwar
Navneet sandhu (R) with friends
Navneet sandhu (R) with friends

Long and convincing discussions with parents to seek permission to stay over for a night at a friend's place is something we have all gone through, especially during our teenage and twenties.

And once the permission is granted, one just can't hold back the excitement for these slumber or sleepover parties. Nothing can compare with the night-long gossip sessions and the feeling of being together with friends!

Says Ekakshra Mahajan, class 12th student from Carmel Convent, "I remember once I hosted such a party at my place. We were a gang of six girls and that night we watched a lot of TV at a high volume, as we were literally gossiping about everyone we knew." She adds, "We ate and chatted and did not sleep at all; it was so much fun."

It's also interesting to know how group study plans change over to a sleepover party. Says Anahita Narain, MBA student, "I remember college days, when I was pursuing my BBA and putting up in a PG. A schedule of group study would just change to a party scene. Four girls, gossiping, loud music playing, pizza home deliveries and late night Maggi sessions were so much fun." She adds, "We have sleepover parties now also, but those good old days are unforgettable"

Even the young boys say 'why should girls have all the fun'! Says Ujjwal Mahajan, class 10th student from St. Johns High School, "Being boys, we don't face many problems as far as permission is concerned, but parents have to be informed well in advance. So, the plan is like we three musketeers go for our 'gedi', visit haunted houses and then shop for Cokes, chips and lots of Red Bull." He adds, "We play wrestling, boxing and racing games on XBOX, and chit-chat about who is going around with whom. I guess talking about girls is a must for a party."And then there are some who are regulars with such parties.

Says Navneet Sandhu, BA first year student of GGDSD College, "We keep having these parties; we dance, listen to music, click pictures and gossip a lot. We even pick up fights over as to who will cook the midnight Maggi." She adds, "No one is allowed to sleep during the night. You don't even come to know how the whole night passes."

There is no let-up in the fun quotient even if one does not wink an eye throughout the night!

sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com

 

Rule book

  • First and the foremost rule — seek your parent's permission well in advance.
  • No sleeping should be allowed.
  • For all your hunger cravings, which may occur throughout the night, you should have enough stock of Maggi, chips, Coke and Redbull.
  • Start saving your pocket money in advance and pool it for the party.
  • Decide some theme that will add more fun.

One for the laadli
Vasudha Gupta

When the song is over, the music still lingers on

Keeping this philosophy in mind, Guru Shobha Koser and Banaras Thumri Diva, Dr Kumud Diwan joined hands to raise their voice against female foeticide.

The noble cause has been initiated by SG Chandra foundation, which is dedicated to promoting education and women centric social initiates.

"If we join hands together, there is every possibility that the initiativewill gain momentum and become a movement like Anna Hazare's," says Kumud Diwan, a semi-classical vocalist. Combining the excellence from the world of academia and the realm of music, the artist got attached to the cause when she realised that she could make a change. "As an artist, I feel it is my duty to contribute to society," she says. Despite the fact that the urban settlements show higher cases of ignoring the baby girl, she has her stand clear. "Delhi, Bombay and Gujrat show skewed sex ratio, but there is no rubbishing the fact that no matter what the girl child will perpetuate," she adds. Her eyes beaming with love for laadli, she adds, "Shobha Khosar is our laadli and her laadlies will propel all thoughts against the baby girl."

Focusing on being able to make change, she hopes that the cause will gain momentum. "It is after all pleasant to watch women excel in all fields," she says. Sobha has something to add too, "I have two daughters; one of them also has two daughters. There is no bigger pleasure for me than to watch them grow into beautiful young girls in my life."

Three Cheers to baby Bachchan!

vasudha@tribunemail.com

Bookworm
Revolutionary idea
Vasudha Gupta
Prabhnoor Narwan
Prabhnoor Narwan

It's not always that an author floors readers. Chetan Bhagt's Revolution 2020 is one such book, which has impressed Prabhnoor Narwan. Currently preparing for the civil services, this avid reader talks about the book and more…

Reading radar

Recently I read Chetan Bhagat's Revolution 2020. I was able to finish it within three days. All thanks to this author's genius who hooks you to his words and forces you to unveil the suspense!

Treasure hunt

I love reading books and just to feed my craving, I randomly picked it up from the book store. Its title and author's name seemed quite promising and I made up my mind to read it.

Genre

Realistic fiction

Twists and turns

It is a story about three childhood friends Gopal, Raghav and Aarti, who struggle to find success, love and happiness in Varanasi. However, it is not easy to attain these in an unfair society that rewards the corrupt. As Gopal gives in to the system, and Raghav fights it. 'So, who will win?' is the question that pushes you towards the end.

Highs and lows

The best part about the book is that it immediately forms a connection with every youth and inspires to cruise through life, no matter what! Moreover, it's very easy to read, especially for the readers who hate tiring descriptions. There is no worst aspect about this book.

Comparison meter

I have read his Five Point Someone. But, I will surely recommend this book simply because of its realistic, youthful and revolutionary appeal.

Similar or different?

It's definitely different from other Indian authors, since it talks in depth about a student's psychology, shortcomings of our Indian education system and mirrors the plight of present day lovers.

Best of the lot?

Yes, so far it is one of the most tempting books that I have read by young Indian writers.

Rating chart

I would definitely give it an eight out of ten.

If there is an interesting recent read you have just finished, get in touch with us at lifestyletribune@gmail.com. We'll sift the best from the rest

Foreign woes

A study has indicated when it comes to knowing or learning new words of foreign languages, not many Britons seem enthusiastic about it.

In a poll of 2,000 adults by travel website Hotels.com it was found that two thirds of Britons cannot say anything in a foreign language - with one fifth even unsure of what 'bonjour'; the French word for hello means.

The findings look to confirm the cliche about Britons being bad at making an effort to speak the lingo when abroad. — IANS

High Spirits
Parisian blonde cocktail
Vineet Mishra

It's a new-age cocktail, known for elevating one's mood and refreshing spirit.

Ingredients

  • 45 ml Havana Club aged white rum
  • 20 ml Monin orange syrup
  • 10 ml sugar syrup
  • 30 ml rich whipped cream

Instructions

Shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Cocktail Joke

Tow truck sign…Drink and drive! We need the business.

Mishra is director CocktailJockey.com

Mix-ed feelings

The Christmas season is here. Well, at least the Yuletide spirit is. And to capture the spirit Hotel Hometel-Chandigarh organised the cake mixing ceremony. For this important occasion, Sisters from Missionary of Charity were invited to grace the occasion.

Sabyasachi Chatterjee, general manager, Hometel, said "The cake-mixing ceremony marks the onset of Christmas season. It is considered to usher in good time and happiness. At Hometel, cake ingredients are soaked in various spirits and liquor to impart flavour and left to mature up to Christmas. These are then used by the in-house bakery to make cakes and puddings."

TNS

Wedding bells for Genelia & Riteish
Karan Johar thrilled about Riteish-Genelia wedding
Genelia D'Souza and Riteish Deshmukh
TOGETHER OFFICIALLY: Genelia D'Souza and Riteish Deshmukh

Genelia D'Souza has kept tight-lipped about her marriage plans, but her beau Riteish Deshmukh has confirmed in a media report that they have decided to get married early next year. And filmmaker Karan Johar, a close friend of the two, is "thrilled to bits".

"Am thrilled to bits and excited about one of my closest friends upcoming wedding!!! @Riteishd is a truly special guy and he and @geneliad make an absolutely wonderful couple!!! Big love to them!!!!" Johar posted on his Twitter page Friday.

In response to the filmmaker's message, Riteish wrote: "@kjohar25 loveeeeeee youuuuuu."

Riteish, 32, and Genelia's love story began on the sets of their Bollywood debut, Tujhe Meri Kasam in 2003. Neither of them ever publicly acknowledged their relationship, but Riteish, son of politician Vilasrao Deshmukh, finally admitted in a recent media report that they will seal their eight-year-old relationship with a wedding in 2012.

The couple was also seen in Masti in 2004, and they have now teamed up for a film Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya. — IANS

Crossing over

Hollywood actress Scarlett Johansson is set to expand her career by turning director with Summer Crossing.

The 26-year-old actress, who is teaming up with Oscar-winning producer Barry Spikings in the project, will work on the movie adaptation of Truman Capote's first novel.

It focuses on an 18-year-old young woman who breaks free of her rich family to discover her own identity and sexuality after World War II. Copote wrote the novel in the 1940s, but it was lost for half a century before eventually being published in 2005.

"I've wanted to direct since I was 12, since I watched Bob Redford direct The Horse Whisperer. I was like, 'I want that job!'," she had said once.

The Iron Man 2 actress will be seen starring opposite Matt Damon in We Bought a Zoo, which is set to hit theaters on December 23. — PTI

Strategic move
Bigg Boss is my way to Bollywood: Sunny Leone

Indo-Canadian adult film star Sunny Leone, who is all set to enter the Bigg Boss house as a contestant this week, says the reality show is her gateway to the Indian entertainment industry.

The 30-year-old businesswoman and model, who was named as one of the 12 top porn stars in 2010, says she always wanted to return to her native country and work here.

"I've always wanted to enter into Bollywood in India and Bigg Boss was the first professional offer which came my way.

I do what I do outside India and I am what I am, but I run my career professionally, so this was the best offer for me," Leone said.

Born to Punjabi parents in Ontario, Leone says she keeps visiting India and has grown up watching Hindi films.

"These are my roots, this is who I am. I keep coming to India to visit my relatives who mostly stay in the North. I grew up watching Bollywood movies and the beautiful stars." And when asked which Bollywood actor she would like to work with, Leone said, "I would love to work with the host of Bigg Boss-Salman Khan. I am looking forward to meeting him." Salman is the on-and-off host of this season of the reality show, co-hosted by Sanjay Dutt.

Leone is entering the show as a participant and although she has no strategy in place, she is has been following it on telly and knows each contestant inside the house.

"I have no plans, I am here to have a good time. This is the first time I am working in India, hopefully I will add a little bit of glamour, have some laughs, add some light because there's a lot going on in the house. I have been watching the show from the beginning and I know all the characters inside," she said.

And she is also hoping to please the Indian viewers and stay on the show for a long time.

"I am entering as a participant so I will be on the show as long as India wants me. If I get nominated I hope people will vote for me to remain on the show. I think all of India is waiting to see the response when I enter the show. Let's see what happens." — PTI

Adoption theory

Hollywood actress Queen Latifah wants to have children soon and although she hasn't ruled out getting pregnant she is ready to adopt.

The 41-year-old singer-and-actress, who is usually incredibly guarded about her private life, says she would be happy to have a baby naturally but adopting has been a dream of hers since she was a teenager.

"I'm definitely going to adopt — or have — a child. I've wanted to adopt since I was 17 or 18 years old," she said. The Chicago star also said, "I think the most important thing I've learned is to not stop living.” — PTI

Chatter box

Fashion Police
Television stars are fashionable. At times, they look straight out of the fashion magazines but once in a while, they get it wrong. We take a closer look at how celebs dressed for the party of Star News' show Saas Bahu Aur Saazish

Standing tall

Be it on-screen or off-screen, Pratyusha and Shashank always know how to work it out. While the two look cute and adorable in this picture, we wish Pratyusha had worn higher heels.

Getting it right

Be it her lips, earrings, dress or even her tattoo, everything about Jennifer complimented her look. She shows off her figure in this hugging green dress and made everyone green with envy for sure.

Wrong foot

Tina Dutta made quite an impact with this dress. She looked young and charming. However, we wish she had played around a bit with her footwear. All white is no fun.

No shades of grey

With a personality like this, Karan Singh Grover could have looked better. This white and black combination is quite boring for a party. A jacket would have done wonders to his look.

Snow white

Kritika Kamra wore white, and how! Take a look at the furry work on her pretty dress and that killer pose, you know what we mean. She looks glamorous and pretty.

Perfect compliment

Anas Rashid and Deepika Singh totally complimented each other and showed off their real fashion avatar which is the opposite of their onscreen demure ones.

HRM

Stars and household chores

On television, stars can be seen performing various chores such as cooking food, cleaning dishes or their rooms. But do these telly town celebrities actually do such chores in real life? We find out what kind of work do our favourite stars like to do everyday…

Rubina Dalik

I usually don't get much time to spend at home as I am out shooting. But there is one chore that I perform everyday is making bed for my pets. Of course, it has become my responsibility and I love doing it. I like to cook as well but unfortunately, I don't get time to cook. Also, I like to light aroma candles. I love their fragrance and dim light.
Jay Soni
All clear: Jay Soni

Jay Soni

I live with my parents, so my mom does most of the things for me. But as soon as I get home from shoot and if I see things lying around, I put them on their and make everything look tidy. I also keep my room clean. I am a cleanliness freak. At times when I get early, I don't wake up mom but make tea for myself.

Soumya Seth

I have to clean my room every day. It's my responsibility and I like it. But I don't really enjoy it sometimes. I am basically very moody when it comes to doing household chores. When I am in the mood, I will do everything from cooking and cleaning to dusting and weeping floors. But when I am not in the mood, I don't like to do much.

Krystle D'Souza

Before leaving for shoot every morning, I make sure that my room is clean and neat. I fold bed sheets, clothes, and keep everything tidy. It isn't something that has been put as a responsibility. But I can't stay in place that isn't clean. I love cleanliness so that's why I like to my room clean. That's the only household chore I do. Also, I can't cook. (Laughs)

Mohit Malhotra

I have servants for everything, so I hardly do any household chores and also I get no time. But usually one thing that I always do is I keep my clothes in the wardrobe and in an organised manner. At times, when I have time I put things to where they belong as servants sometimes have no clue where to put some of the things.
Sargun Mehta
What’s Cooking: Sargun Mehta

Sargun Mehta

Honestly speaking, most of us actors don't get time to do household chores. I, too, don't get much time. But as soon as I'm home, I always check for things that lying around and put them on their proper place or clean my cupboard. I also love to cook for myself. I find it fun cooking for yourself as you are never afraid of experimenting as only you have to eat it.

Nigaar Khan wants to lose inches

Nigaar Khan who will soon be seen along with her sister Gauahar Khan on a reality show Khan sisters, has been really concerned about her weight and trying desperately to loose inches as she wants to look perfect on screen.

Nigaar who has tried dieting has now succumbed to a weight loss treatment with a known spa in Mumbai. When questioned about her weight loss procedure.

Nigaar said, "I will soon be seen in a reality show with my sister and I just want to make sure I put my best foot forward… and I don't think there is any harm in taking a little help from experts to get rid of those last few inches that are always the most difficult to get rid off."

Nigaar will be undergoing a procedure called 'Vibrator weight loss therapy' where one has to wear a vibrating belt on the spot where you want to loose inches, a special liquid gel is applied on the spot prior to the treatment and the procedure lasts for about 30mins.

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: A relaxed night ahead. Pearls of wisdom from an older person are valuable. Take stock of your plans. and ensure you are looking after yourself. Running around after other people all the time may not leave much time for you.
Tarot message: Think positively.
Lucky colour: 38.
Magic number: Aqua blue

TAURUS: There are too many problems to cope with at home. Partners may not understand what you mean. Business conferences and organisational meeting can go off smoothly under your direction.
Tarot message: Avoid nastysituation.
Lucky colour: Mauve.
Magic number: 59

GEMINI: Not a particularly busy day. Try to get your work in order now. If you are thinking of rekindling a past love affair, make plan for a weekend retreat just for the two of you and reignite the fire.
Tarot message: Results are guaranteed if you stick to arrangements.
Lucky colour: Navy blue.
Magic number: 47

CANCER: Give more time to domestic duties. Sportsmen will perform well. Love and friendship are likely to take up most of your time. Listening and loving will ensure that all your dreams come true.
Tarot message: Do not let anyone take advantage of you.
Lucky colour: White.
Magic number: 53

LEO: Despite being surrounded by friends, you may feel all alone today. A busy schedule will have you going through the emotions while your mind stews over other matters.
Tarot message: Do not cover up your own mistakes and keep the emotions aside. Lucky colour: Saffron.
Magic number: 30

VIRGO: There will be new projects to deal with. Social activities will get your thoughts active. Discussions on interesting topics can draw you into debates if you are not careful.
Tarot message: Don't get embroiled in ventures where returns are spread over a large period of time.
Lucky colour: Sky blue.
Magic number: 31

LIBRA: Nothing is going wrong today. Home and family life will run smoothly. You will get more time to do what you want. Evening favours social get together. Pamper yourself a little today. If you are experiencing aches or pains, go to a doctor.
Tarot message: Avoid gossip sessions.
Lucky colour: Orange.
Magic number: 36

SCORPIO: Women will be bored with their daily routine. Ensure that your health is up to the mark before you take up a new task. Think about what you are going to wear to an upcoming job interview.
Tarot message: Your health can stand in the way of travel plans.
Lucky colour: Pink.
Magic number: 61

SAGITTARIUS: Focus on hobbies and personal matters. Someone close to you might be sapping your energy. Your energy may be under par, and a day at home could be your best medicine.
Tarot message: Prevent people for drawing their own conclusion.
Lucky colour: Silver.
Magic number: 32

CAPRICORN: Investments made in new ventures are sure to bring good dividends. Plotting fabulous ways to get the things you want; even though you know you probably won't ever get around to putting them into action.
Tarot message: You are advised to focus on professional changes.
Lucky colour: Yellow.
Magic number: 29

AQUARIUS: Use your sympathy more than your ambition for best results. A strong independent streak will push you to get things done your way and in your time. You have the charm to make friends and to influence people.
Tarot message: Arrogance and pride will not be rewarded.
Lucky colour: Green.
Magic number: 43

PISCES: The vibes now call for reflection and re-evaluation. Contracts and agreements can stall, messages can get mixed up, appointments can be cancelled. Tarot message: You need to be creative if you want to retain your grip over your business.
Lucky colour: Peach.
Magic number: 65

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is November 20...

On this birthday, you will be extremely inspirational and will overcome any doubts and incertitude of a task for which you are responsible. Nevertheless, ask colleagues for help. Don't be late for an appointment as you risk compromising a new, valid relationship. Try to organise yourself in advance. Now is the time to try for big, crazy ideas and plans -- you never know what might be right! It's a good time for you to make sure that your energy is spent on whatever you feel is most important. You are very prone to depression and mood swings, as emotions can turn inward and cause anxiety and mental turmoil. It can be hard for you to bounce back to reality when depression sets in. Once you get going, you will be unstoppable, so be motivated. Financial sphere is protected by strong oscillations. The stars advise, however, to reflect well before acting and to be lucid. Try not to use all your energy at work - use it in small doses as this will be more useful. If you address the emotional appeal, a once-damaged relationship can once again flourish -- even among the ashes. Better wisdom directs you to construct an open doorway instead of a barricade. A ton of work and last minute mistakes or demands may shorten your fuse big time. Trust your instincts about a 'big buy or risk of some kind' as you will be 'right' about it. Your financial position will be fine. You'll work hard in the beginning, but by the middle of it all your enthusiasm will fade away. So take care and work hard to get benefit out of your efforts. However, speculation in the stock market will not prove beneficial and you should not be tempted even if you have been given an inside tip. Some of you may have a slight health problem that will require you to take rest for few days during December. Therefore you should take precautions and focus on your health. Your social life should be lively. Mood: Almost frightful. Compatible signs: Virgo, Capricorn. Lucky colours: Rose pink and blue. Lucky days: Friday and Sunday. Lucky numbers: 1, 11, 21, 31, 50. Lucky gem: Citrine -the Healing Gemstone. Lucky flower: Balsam

Tusshar Kapoor (November20,1976, Mumbai) son of actor Jeetendra and Shobha Kapoor and brother of Ekta Kapoor. He made his debut with Mujhe Kuch Kehna Hai opposite Kareena Kapoor. Shootout at Lokhandwala did well at the box office. He has also acted in Golmaal Returns, which is the sequel to the 2006 film. He had been a judge in several humorous shows. Now, Dirty Picture with Vidya Balan will also establish him. The change of Saturn on November 15, will give his career a boost in coming years.





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