Floral appeal
The ongoing Chrysanthemum Show at the Terrace Garden in Sector-33, Chandigarh, is a delightful break from the monotony of life
Jasmine Singh

When was the last time you had gone out to some nearby community garden and taken a good look at the different varieties of flowers, observed people around, saw kids trying to pluck them with their parents trying their level best of nullify the effort?

When was the last time you saw colourful and delicate chrysanthemums? For once make an effort, pull out time from your busy schedule and visit the ongoing Chrysanthemum Show at the Terrace Garden in Sector-33, Chandigarh. Try not to rate the event on the number of people, stalls and a happening crowd - the idea should be to silently enjoy beauty in its full bloom.

At the chrysanthemum show, you will see all colours of bloom in white, yellow, orange and red smiling at you. Different categories and varieties will make you stop and stare in admiration. "They should give more information along with the flowers," Harinder Sandhu and his wife, who are taking pictures, share with us. "Last year we had some amazing blooms, this year they are less," he adds. A quick must-have for good Chrysanthemums, as Harinder says, "The soil should be well-drained and they need a lot of sun."

After some basic information, it is time to check out the manmade creativity at the show. A boat done up in flowers, animal shapes, sparrows, kangaroos make for a nice backdrop for a family photo. There is something nice about technology - you can admire and take back the beauty with you. At the Chrysanthemum Show you come across many people testing their photography skills amidst flowers, traditional dances and music.

Neerja Kohli, a homemaker, with her son takes a good look at the red wine chrysanthemums. "It is nice to see so many different colours and also the fact that people are still interested in such shows. I have dragged my son to this place because I want him to see something like this as well," she says. "I love gardening and don't miss any flower show. I went to Amsterdam for their annual exotic flower show and it was the most amazing thing I have ever seen," she signs off

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Love, ex and dhokha!
British men dream of former girlfriends, women of parents and kids

It seems suspecting wives are not always wrong while taking a bit 'too much' interest in their husbands' mood and longings. For a British study has found that one in four men regularly dreams about his former girlfriend.

The Dream Study, carried out by Premier Inn, asked 2,000 Brits about their dream patterns to come up with its findings.

The study also revealed that the men in question were not necessarily pining for their ex-s by day. In fact, the majority reported high levels of satisfaction with their current relationship.

Moreover, it was not just ex-partners that British men dreamt about either.

In case some girlfriends start thinking that it is they who are the subject of their man's dreams, they are likely to be usurped during night-time by their partner's colleagues or boss -- with 26 per cent saying they dream of workmates -- or even their mother-in-law, says the study. Interestingly, over a third of British women said they spend their nights dreaming about their current partner, followed closely by dreams about their parents and children. — IANS

Brush with art
Vasudha Gupta

There are only a handful of people who work to fuel their passion in life. Karn Singh Takkhar is one of them. For him, pilot training will came in handy and helped him look after his passion for horse-riding. What started of as playing around with colours, much like what all children do, has transformed into a full-fledged exhibition of art for Karn.

His works, on display at Girl in the Café at Sector 17, bring alive the enthusiasm of colours.

At the age of 27, when most of the youngsters want a stable job, Karn quit his job with a private bank and opted to foray into art.

Born in Madhya Pradesh, Karn went on to complete his schooling from the Doon School, Dehradun, and forgot all about his artistic instinct to get into sports.

"It was then that I was introduced to horse-riding along with various other outdoor sports," he says. Apart from his interest in outdoor and extracurricular activities, the 
young lad is also a mountaineer and has scaled Bhagirathi II as well as Kalidang peaks.

"It was in Canada that I again tried my hand at painting as well as drawing and now, it's a full-time hobby for me," he smiles. Karn feels he inherited this talent from his father. "My father, an IAS officer, has always had the knack of crea-ting beautiful pieces of art," he says.

Apart from his pen drawings and poster creations, Karn has also converted his art into cards, which are up for sale.

"I am trying to raise funds for the Chandigarh Horse Riding Society. It's strange that there 
are so many people who love horse-riding, but nobody takes care of the horses," he adds.

It was recently that Karn came in contact with Neepa Sharma, who decided to promote his style of art. "It is broadly abstract in nature," he says.

Having had no professional training in art, he feels is a blessing in disguise. "My art has generated the same response in both India and Cana-da," he says.

Already working on his next concept around horses, Karn Singh Takkhar hopes that one day there will be a father and son exhibition. "It is a distant dream and I hope I can realise it," he smiles.

His art, like him, has undergone the process of maturing over a per-iod of time.

"Even I see a visible difference in how I would work before and now,"he says. His favourite subjects remain the Mughal period, horses and the mountains.

"It is obvious that the latter will always be close to my heart, but Mughal period is closer to my professional work," he says.

vasudha@tribunemail.com

Wine-some


three cheers: Kapil Sekhri

Wine sessions lead to special stories and sharing many such special stories is what makers of Fratelli Wines are aiming at! In Chandigarh for the launch of six new labels of the brand at JW Marriott-35 on Friday, Kapil Sekhri, director, Fratelli Wines, talks about wine-lovers in the city, "There may be few takers for wine in Chandigarh, but those who are know their wine well."

Wine, preferred more by women, probably finds favour with the city folks as there is less of a taboo attached with it and it is more of a statement of class.

Fratelli, an Indo-Italian venture, is a collaboration between three families who have brought the best of technology as well as expertise in Piero Masi, renowned wine-maker, to India. The company has its own vineyards and state-of-the-art processing as well as storing facilities.

"One interesting aspect about wine-lovers in Chandigarh is that they do not bother about the price. Our Sauvignon and Chardonnay do better than others, despite their higher costs," says Kapil. "Nothing gives us more pleasure than to know that our wine has found favour with those who have tasted it," says Kapil.

Apart from that they let their wine do the talking. All the nine labels of the Fratelli are available in Chandigarh for those who bond over a glass!

Mona 

Sleeping away to glory

Drinking two glasses of tart cherry juice daily can help you get a better night's sleep, a new study has suggested. An international team of researchers found that when adults had two daily glasses of tart cherry juice, they slept 39 minutes longer, on average, and had up to 6 percent increase in overall sleep efficiency (significantly less non-sleep time in bed), compared to when they drank a non-cherry, fruit cocktail.

In a study conducted at Northumbria University, 20 healthy adults drank two servings of tart cherry juice concentrate (30mL of 100 percent pure Montmorency juice concentrate per serving, diluted in a half pint of water; provided by CherryActive, Sunbury, UK) or a non-cherry fruit drink for seven consecutive days at a time - one serving when they woke up, and another before bed.

The researchers tracked participant's sleep habits, and after drinking the cherry juice, they found significant improvements in sleep behaviours, most notably longer sleep time, less daytime napping and increased overall sleep efficiency compared to when they drank the non-cherry juice drink.

The researchers attribute the sleep benefits to the melatonin content of the red Super Fruit - a powerful antioxidant critical for sleep-wake cycle regulation. Each serving of the tart cherry juice concentrate was estimated to contain the equivalent of 90 - 100 tart cherries, providing a significant level of melatonin in the juice and ultimately in the bodies of the participants.

While more research is necessary before medical professionals turn to cherries as a sole treatment for sleep disorders, the scientists conclude that tart cherry juice concentrate could be a viable 'adjunct intervention for disturbed sleep across a number of scenarios'.

The study has been published in the European Journal of Nutrition. —ANI

Take a chill pill

A new pill, hailed as a miracle cure by its maker, can wipe out a hangover in just 15 minutes. A single dose of 'Blowfish' can eradicate all symptoms triggered by a night of heavy drinking, such as nausea, vomiting and fatigue.

The pill, which is already available online, contains 500 milligrams of aspirin, 60 milligrams of caffeine and an antacid to soothe upset stomachs. —ANI

Showcasing sweaters
Sweater as an objet d’art? French photographer Sebastien weaves a story around this winter wear
Vasudha Gupta

As common as the subject of photography is, the uniqueness of it emerges from what catches the fancy of a photographer. Sebastien Daguerressar is one of those rare photographers, who is attracted to the colours of India, particularly of sweaters.

A journalist of French origin, Sebastien moved to India five years back and has been in love with the country ever since. “If you make a comparison, the winter in France is more about the homogenous shades of black and grey,” he says. It was the sudden bust of yellows and pinks, which attracted this bespectacled journalist.

“The sweater story began last year in the winter. I never expected to see such fancy colours, flashing in the dull winter morning,” he adds.

It was his little interest, which was encouraged by a friend. “Oliver Culman, a renowned French photographer who worked in India, gave me tips and motivated me to display my work,” he says.

Coming to India was more of a choice after hearing great stories about the country. “I have a friend who visited India and updated me on the varied flavours, it was then that I decided to shift base and have been here since then,” he says. So, Sebastien, and his wife, also a journalist, moved here.

Another interesting aspect of his photographs is the absence of faces, keeping the focus on the sweater. “If you don’t look at the face, you discover greater details of the sweaters. Even how the person poses tells a lot about him,” he smiles.

Already working on another collection, revolving around the Dongria tribe of Orissa, the photographer-cum-journalist has selected the subject for the next. “It will be a focus on women’s feet and shoes,” he laughs. Without much technical know-how about photography to start with, Sebastien’s interest grew while learning the basics of photography at journalism school. “Portraits still remain a hot favourite for me,” he adds. Already showcased in Delhi, he has also sold many of his photographs. Wearing a plain, simple shirt, we were surprised to find him without the object of his fancy. “I find them itchy and have never really worn them,” he says. “They do look attractive but are very itchy,” he quickly chips in.

vasudha@tribunemail.com

The perfect remedy
Let go of the inhibition and live life as you love, says Priya Kumar author and motivational speaker, in Chandigarh, to launch her
third book The Perfect World
Mona

We make compromises all the time. We do not wear what we really want to; eat what we want to, live with someone when we want to be with someone else. Well, this is one life and one can actually do what the heart desires, going by the theme of Priya Kumar’s third book The Perfect World.

An accidental writer, Priya (a motivational speaker otherwise) now wants to be an author throughout her life. In Chandigarh on Friday for the launch of her latest book, she shares the story of how she became a writer. “It happened in that fateful December when I was left with no work for some two months; when the Taj at Mumbai was under siege,” says Priya, whose workshops were postponed one after another as the five-stars (they invariably are the venue for her workshops) were put on high alert.

Undeterred, Priya took out her bucket list with ‘to write a book’ on the top (she wants to make a movie, act in one cut her own album…) and sat to write. Seven days flat and manuscript of I Am Another You was ready. The very first publisher got the book printed. Priya wrote another book on her publisher’s request — License to Live. This time, it was the result of eight days. And again her third book, The Perfect World was written in eight days!

“I am like that. I am mad. I don’t sit still till I finish what I have in mind,” says Priya, who in her motivational workshops makes people walk on fire, crushed glass or bend construction rods with their necks. “The idea is to let go of the inhibitions,” says Priya, who believes in telling stories, a gift that she discovered right in her childhood.

Chandigarh-born Priya is now based in Mumbai, travels the world for motivational workshops and takes out time to write. Her Perfect World is Niki Sander’s journey into the universe and back to planet earth and how she returns wiser. “You can take the message if it clicks,” says Priya, whose earlier two books have also been on the bestseller’s list.

The Perfect World is available on bookstores for Rs 275.

mona@tribunemail.com

First-day-first show

It’s about money, honey

Ricky Bahl (Ranveer Singh) has got the looks and the charm. But love isn’t Ricky’s priority, money is! He adopts different personas to support an extravagant lifestyle by conning his many ‘girlfriends’. Soon, unsuspecting Ricky runs into his match in Ishika Desai (Anushka Sharma). What unfolds is drama, love and comedy.

Cast-ing spell

A great entertainer. Anuska and Ranveer again grip the audience with their excellent roles and dialogue delivery.

— Amanjot Randhawa, bank employee

Fun film

It is a fun, light-hearted film. It is hilariously fast-paced and fun to watch.

— Akanksha Bhardwaj, student, PU

Good score

More or less predictable. The movie grips primarily due to its peppy music.

— Preetika Kumar, housewife

(As told to Vasudha Gupta)

Star track
Romantic link-ups of 2011
Bipasha Basu

The newly single hottie has been linked to Josh Hartnett, Rana Daggubatti, and Shahid Kapoor. She is reportedly seeing Rana.

Ranbir Kapoor

The favourite charmer of Bollywood has been associated with Nargis Fakhri, model Angela Jonsson, and also Anushka Sharma. His equation with Katrina is officially over.

Ranveer Singh


 Ranveer Singh; Anushka Sharma;Ranbir Kapoor;Priyanka Chopra;Shahid Kapoor

The hot newcomer has been linked with Anushka Sharma, Sonakshi Sinha and Parineeti Chopra.

Sonakshi Sinha

The "conservative" actress has only been linked to Ranveer Singh since she admitted she had a crush on him. Anyway, she has been said to have gotten over him because he is too friendly and gets over familiar.

Anushka Sharma

This girl has been linked to anyone and everyone. Poor thing! The pretty face is supposed to be seeing Shahid Kapoor, making her moves on Ranbir Kapoor, and still having unfinished business with Ranveer Singh.

Priyanka Chopra

She is finally done with Shahid Kapur. She was linked with none other than her childhood and current heartthrob Shah Rukh Khan and also with newcomer and Don 2 co-star, model Sahil Shroff.

Shahid Kapoor

The pretty boy was linked with Bipasha Basu and Anushka Sharma. He and Priyanka Chopra finally called off their volatile equation. — HRM

When Sonam meets Cruise 


Hero worship: Sonam Kapoor

Sonam Kapoor is everywhere all over again as her film Players is ready for release. Here is what she has to say about her look, action scenes, meeting Tom Cruise, and all about Players.

Meeting Cruise

You know I was blushing like a school-girl when I met him. I have always been a big fan of his. I was shocked to see how handsome he is in his late 40s. I was in awe of Tom. Of course, Dad also looks very young and fit!

Favourite stars

When I was a kid I used to have a poster of Tom in my bedroom and of course after Titanic, it was Leonardo DiCaprio but at the same time I liked Brad Pitt too. These are the hot stars of Hollywood.

Players look

I am sporting a very different look for Players. It's sporty at the same time very sexy. After the first promo was out I have been getting so many compliments about my looks. My character Naina Briganza is totally different. Director Abbas-Mustan thought of giving me a different look according to the character who loves rash driving. She is a techy girl and makes Abhishek's life hell. I think just not me but everyone has a different and rocking look in the film and the credit goes to directors Abbas-Mustan who always make their heroines look hot.

Censor censure

I know kids are getting mature at an early age today but then a film has something to say. Like they banned smoking which I am against because there are so many other things that need to be banned. In one song I showed the middle finger, that's a very common thing today.

 

The Don speaks
I don't consider myself a role model: Shah Rukh Khan


Bad boy: Shah Rukh Khan

With shouts of "I love you Shah Rukh" emanating from a thousand strong crowd Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan unveiled the look of his upcoming action thriller Don 2 at the ongoing Dubai International Film Festival and ever the charmer, the actor said he has made bad look really good in the movie.

The 46-year-old actor, who enjoys a huge fan-following in UAE, said he enjoyed making the Don sequel, which hits theatres in 2D and 3D on December 23.

"When I am good, I am good but when I am bad, I am better. I have a dark soul and I am very proud of the film because I could be as bad as I wanted and there is no justification. Of course, we are not glorifying the bad things but in my 70 films odd career I have never enjoyed playing a part like I do in Don 2," he said.

The actor was accompanied by co-star Priyanka Chopra, director Farhan Akhtar and producer Ritesh Sidhwani but the evening clearly belonged to him as he charmed his way through the crowd with his quick repartees.

The film faced some trouble in India because of its smoking scenes and responding to a question from a young audience member, Shah Rukh said he never considered himself a role model.

"I don't consider myself a role model. I have little kids of my own and I make movies for them. But honestly I think they should be exposed to all kind of stories so they can give vent to whatever is in their system and grow up to be cool like me. We are not justifying anything here," he said.

One of the best loved stars in India, Shah Rukh said he tries to do different things "within the parameters of commercial cinema". —PTI 

Invisible hero

Disappearing act: Kunal Kapoor

Kunal Kapoor will be seen next in the much awaited Don 2 directed by Farhan Akhtar. The handsome actor, who is playing the role of an integral character Sameer Ali in the movie, has been missing from the recent promotional activities of the movie.

News is that Kunal's disappearing act is no promotional gimmick chalked out by the team, but in fact a date problem which the actor is facing. Kunal is currently in Punjab shooting for his next movie, Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana which is a UTV Spotboy and Anurag Kashyap production.

The actor is away on a long outdoor schedule for his upcoming movie and hence has no options but to give some of the promotional activities of Don 2 a miss. In fact, Kunal who is very excited about his role in Don 2 and disappointed that he can't be with the team at this time.

When quizzed about the same the actor went on to say, "I think I'm one of the actors that actually enjoy promotional work. It's a good chance to re-connect with the whole team. But unfortunately I'm smack in the centre of a tight schedule."

Talking about his film with Anurag, he said, "It's a comedy film and working with Anurag is wonderful experience because he is a director who has a different perception of filmmaking. His films capture what happens around us."

" It's a first ever film made on food in India. Being an Indian we all know how much we love to eat. Every part of India has a special dish. This film is also different as for the first time audience will see Anurag doing a family entertainer. The film revolves around a Punjabi family," says Kunal.

Coming back to Don 2 he says, "It's a wonderful experience sharing screen with SRK. He is a total entertainer and Farhan is a great director. Don 2 is different as it takes Don to another level."

Vidya is losing weight

Vidya Balan is now on a weight loss spree. She is losing the 12 kg she piled on for The Dirty Picture and its promotions. She has 10 kg to lose and will do so with the help of Pooja Makhija, her dietician, and Vilayat Hussain, her trainer.

Scaling down: Vidya Balan

 

Song of the year

Chamak Challo, the popular number from much-hyped Shah Rukh Khan starrer RA.One, has been named the most downloaded song and video of the year in a new survey by wireless telephony major Airtel.

Sung by international singer Akon, the peppy number featuring Shah Rukh Khan and Kareena Kapoor was downloaded 41.13 per cent of people in south India, followed by 30 per cent, 16.75 per cent and 11.85 per cent in the west, east and north.

In the Hello Tunes section Kolaveri Di, topped with 210,000 downloads within 18 days of its launch.

Bollywood celebrities Katrina Kaif and Shah Rukh took the leading position in the category of most downloaded images of the year.

Deepika Padukone, Kareena Kapoor, Jacqueline Fernandez and Priyanka Chopra wrapped up the top five in the list of most downloaded images of Bollywood actresses, while Salman Khan, Shahid Kapoor, Imran Khan and John Abraham made it to the top five among the actors.

"Today, the mobile is a major source of entertainment and information - be it for a user in a large town or small village. For the third consecutive year, we are proud to bring to you choices and preferences of the India of today through Airtel Mobitude 2011,"N Rajaram, chief marketing officer, Consumer Business, Bharti Airtel said in statement.

In the Hollywood segment, Kim Kardashian and King of Pop Michael Jackson took the top position.

IANS

Chatter box
For the love of dance

Grand Master Mithun Chakraborty was at his dancing best at the launch of the third season of Zee TV’s Dance India Dance. He took to the stage to show his signature moves. He also gave his remarks about Jay Bhanushali being very busy and doesn’t have time to  talk to him. Here’s what Dada had to say about  the show, dancing styles today and more…

What can the audience expect from Dance India Dance 3?

When I close my eyes and say Dance India Dance- I don’t see victories or failures- all I see is the passion and desire to excel in every dancer who sets foot on this prestigious platform of DID. I started my career as a struggling dancer and looking back, I see flashbacks of my own life in front of me. DID is very close to my heart and with the blessings of the Almighty, DID 3 will go down in history books as yet another landmark season. The audiences can expect thrilling moments and a grand show.

How does it feel to be back on the show with judges —Geeta Kapoor, Terrence Lewis and Remo D’souza?

We all are family and I am happy my best trio is back plus the ravishing Soumya Tandon and handsome Jay Bhanushali hosting our show. We are a cool gang. In fact Jay is very busy and he told me that he didn’t have time to talk (laughs).

Who is the best dancer in the industry today?

I have always said Hrithik Roshan is a fabulous dancer. Shahid Kapoor also dances very well. They have it in them and they have proved it.

How would you define dance today?

Dancing today has changed completely and dancing pattern or forms should always change. I feel that today’s dancers are more talented than we were. They improvise and learn so many different dancing forms. It is amazing.

What does the tagline of the show -Born To Dance mean?

Mumkin nahi hain sabhi ke liye dance ke jariye sab kuch paana. Jo chingari banke paide hote hain sirf unhe ki fitrat hai aag lagana. That’s is born to dance. If you are born with the talent, then you can go higher in life.

Do you think with western styles and modern forms of dancing, Indian classical dance forms like Bharatnatyam, etc are getting overshadowed?

I don’t think so. Our classical dance is the basis of every dance. There are some youngsters who love Indian classical dances.

Are dance reality shows boon to the youth of today?

I think such shows are a great thing to happen as through these shows at least all these talented dancers are getting a chance to show their flair. If you think of us, we would show our talent by dancing in various hotels. And back then I used ask them if they would give lunch as we didn’t know when and where would we get food to eat.

What do you think of physically challenged contestants who show their talent but later are eliminated?

I don’t know what to say on this but you must have seen that we give full respect to them in the show. For me people who, in spite of physical challenges, dare to perform are winners. 

Wrong foot forward


couple in trouble: (L-R) Karan V Grover and Suhashi Dhami (in blue) 

In Zee’s Yahaan Mein Ghar Ghar Kheli, Abha’s (Suhasi Dhami) look-a-like Albeli is getting tired of playing the sweet and homely Abha.

She is making lot of mistakes and in the upcoming episodes she will sing the wrong aarti, eating food that Abha hated, which will make Karan (Karan V Grover) think something is wrong with her.

But he won’t doubt that she is not Abha. Albeli will soon be exposed.

Ageing gracefully


Yes boss: Sara Khan and Angad Hasija

Ankita Lokhande, who has won millions of heart as Archana, in Zee’s Pavitra Rishta will now be seen as mother to four kids post leap. As a 45-year-old woman, she is still the same as she was promised no grey hair by producer Ekta Kapoor. 

“Twenty years down the line, viewers will be delighted to see that Archana hasn’t changed one bit. She’s still every bit the ideal mother, daughter and sister,” says Ankita.

“She’s aged rather gracefully with hardly any greys yet! What has gone missing from her life is the role of a wife. On some level, she deeply misses Manav,” she adds.

Heading for trouble?

In Zee’s Ram Milaye Jodi, Mona (Sara Khan) has been working with Aditya sir (Angad Hasija) for a while and the two have become good friends. The stoic Aditya loves Mona’s vivaciousness. In the upcoming episode, Mona will take him for a pani puri party and her husband Anukalp (Sujoy) will spot them. Earlier, too Ambaji didn’t approve of Mona spending so much time with her boss but will this new development bring trouble for Mona?

Relationship web

rough patch: Shashank Vyas 

In Colors’ Balika Vadhu- Gauri (Anjum Faroki) and Jagya (Shashank Vyas) are going through a tough time in their relationship but soon more trouble will land at their doorstep. Their landlady Kunda tai will find out that Gauri snatched a married man. Her husband had left her for another woman, so as she suffered the same fate, she will get angry and throw them out. She will blame Gauri for breaking Anandi’s marriage. Gauri will be taunted and tormented once again while Jagya will worry about what to do next.

Replacement time

Imagine TV seems to be looking out for a good time slot for Swayamvar and have put two shows Dharampatni and Haar Jeet under scanner. They were launched in August and October respectively and haven’t delivered expected TRPs. Dharampatni was the bigger show with loads of hype but Harshad Chopra and Aasiya Kazi failed to make an impact with the audiences. If things don’t work out they might go off air by December end.

Caring husband

Happy times: Jiyaa Manek 

In Star Plus’ Saath Nibhana Saathiya, Gopi, being played by Jiyaa Manek, will soon be on the road to recovery. She will return home from the hospital.

Her husband, Aham, will be very caring towards her and will ensure that she is taken care of. He won’t leave her side and will surprise her by doing little things for her.

 

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Life is not always bed of roses. Relatives will be sensitive and difficult to get along with. Do not get involved in any land deal. Look after yourself now, and you will avoid problems. Tarot message: A confrontation needs to be managed with care. Lucky colour: Royal blue. Magic number: 59.

TAURUS: You will be happy in the company of friends. Handle property matters carefully. Some of you could be suffering from financial insecurity. Tarot message: You must realise that it’s important to enjoy your dreams but be sure you don’t play tricks on yourself. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 41.

GEMINI: Relax; there is no work pressure at all. Friends will be easy going and willing to fall in love with your plans. A romantic alliance is likely to blossom by the evening. Nothing is to be taken seriously. Tarot message: Do not let anyone get an advantage over you. Lucky colour: Burgundy. Magic number: 46.

CANCER: Best day to get things done by people in power. You will get an opportunity to become a member of an important club. Take a look at why you are putting up with the situations you do not like. Tarot message: Be determined and increase your self-confidence which will be on trial. Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 25.

LEO: Love relations bubble with excitement. Making a spontaneous trip can fill a need for variety. Students will get down to their tasks and creative hobbies. Be careful not to violate traffic rules. Tarot message: Win the war with honesty, not by distorting facts. Lucky colour: Cream. Magic number: 27.

VIRGO: Tendencies for manipulation or revenge should be controlled and contained. Political bosses: danger looms large over the head. Lovers, avoid meeting in the evening. Physical exercise is imperative to relieve stress. Tarot message: Trust your heart and intuition. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 43.

LIBRA: Sacrifices today can put you in a far better place in future. Sudden travel could disturb certain plans. A long awaited issue finally gets settled. Tarot message: Now is the need to question the value judgment which has been shaping your money aspects. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 60

SCORPIO: The Moon reveals that you could stretch your relationship a bit too far. Domestic issues come up for urgent consideration. Have no worries. Your work is well under control. Tarot message: Don’t be too certain about obtaining a clearance or permission as the process is arduous. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 42.

SAGITTARIUS: It is a day to forget worries of the work. Talk to superiors and see what they can offer. Uncooperative family members will throw a spanner in your life. Tarot message: You need to take things slowly and listen to your inner voice. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 62.

CAPRICORN: Today you will be in an enthusiastic frame of mind. Unexpected callers can intrude on your solitude as family matters can blow up and get out of hand unnecessarily. Tarot message: Change the status quo both at work and relationships by voicing your feelings. Lucky colour: Silver grey. Magic number: 29

AQUARIUS: Trying to get some time to yourself could be the hardest thing today. You will be in a mood to find fault with people who are dear to you. Extravagance could get the better of you. Tarot message: Follow your instincts and don’t hesitate to act accordingly. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 30

PISCES: Older people may drum up certain problems. Check your car before you set out for a long journey. A Bon voyage party is full of people you know making it a night to remember. Tarot message: Draw on those inner energies and begin moving from thought to action. Lucky color: Rust. Magic number: 64

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is December 10...

You’re longing for a partnership that offers mental stimulation. You’re not very talkative, and prefer to express your affection through actions. In 2011, if you’ve developed some wonderful plans they will come true in 2012. If your best friend or lover isn’t eager to talk, try not to take it personally. Your contributions, whether emotional, intellectual or financial, are being put to good use, and that makes you feel even more generous. You find it much easier to endear yourself to the right people on birthday— so much so that you might find someone has a crush on you! Take on new interests. You will be able to clear up a recent dispute with your partner. Try not to nag him or her with your stubbornness. Your leadership skills — overt or covert — are tested in March, so step up and assume command or lead from the rear. Don’t get exasperated with your anxieties. A superior performance will lead to happiness. Your creative energies are high. Luck is in your favour. Unemployed may get job offers. An opportunity to start a new venture with quick financial gains is likely. Your birth on the 10th day adds a tone of independence and extra energy. The number one energy suggests more executive ability and leadership qualities than your path may have indicated. This ‘one’ energy may diminish your ability and desire to handle details. If contemplating construction, your home town will be a better choice of permanent residence after retirement.

Mood: Problems ‘lifting’ fast. Compatible signs: Capricorn, Scorpio, Pisces. Lucky colours: Blanched almond and black. Lucky days: Thursday. Lucky numbers: 4, 10, 19, 34, 49. Lucky gem: Ruby.

Anjana Sukhani (December 10, 1978, Jaipur) has acted in a Cadbury Dairy Milk advertisement with Amitabh Bachchan.

She’s has acted in Golmaal Returns. She made an impression in multi-starrer Salaam-e-ishq. She also starred in the lead role for the video for the song Ghar jayegi.

Anjana will be more inclined towards spiritualism than films.





HOME PAGE | Punjab | Haryana | Jammu & Kashmir | Himachal Pradesh | Regional Briefs | Nation | Opinions |
| Business | Sports | World | Letters | Chandigarh | Ludhiana | Delhi |
| Calendar | Weather | Archive | Subscribe | E-mail |