Simply Asin!
Vasudha Gupta

It is not easy for every newcomer to make a mark in the Indian film industry. Only the lucky few, without the presence of Bollywood in their genes and a godfather, have done so and a luckier few have started their journey with the most desirable Khan! Asin Thottumkal is one of those. In a telephonic interview for the UTV Stars show, Superstar Santa, Asin speaks about her own tryst with destiny and her place in the Indian film industry.

At the age of 26, when most youngsters are still understanding the glamourous film industry, Asin, a fresh face in Bollywood, has not only made a formidable mark Down South, but has also already worked with the likes of Amir and swayed to Dhinka Chicka with Salman! “I have been fortunate enough to have worked with the two ace actors very early in my Bollywood career,” she says. As the critically acclaimed Ghajini etched Kalpana in everyone’s memory, it was her light-hearted role in Ready, which gave Asin, a more commercially acclaimed role. “The entire experience of working together has been such that I have managed to build a good rapport with both of them. I have great admiration and respect for the two and am aware that I can look at either for guidance as well as support at any point of time,” she says. Perceiving it as a ‘dream come true’, Asin is aware that it is primarily good fortune that has brought her this far in the industry.

Movement from the South Indian film industry to the big, bad world of Bollywood was not much of a change for this beauty. “The only major difference has been language and culture,” she says. Despite being in the industry for over ten years and having worked extensively Down South, humility does not desert this graduate in English literature. “Till now, it has been a learning process for me. It started from South and the dynamics of the industry continues to teach me something every day. In short, it has been a good journey,” she smiles.

With her next release, Houseful 2, moving into post-production stages and Bol Bachchan in the shooting stage, Asin feels having good friends in the industry is possible. “It is definitely not impossible, but the extent to how far the friendship can go is ruled by professional commitments,” she says. As for her core group, “We are seven of us who have been together since school days, so much so that now they are family,” she says.

vasudha@tribunemail.com

Fashion express
With warm colours, floral prints and drape dresses, fashion scenario in 2012, would not be much different from the scene we just left behind!
Manpriya Khurana

Fashion comes a full circle. There are no rough edges, no corners, no sides, no opposites. Each thread picked up from where we left off. Which is why, you can never say how far you’ve come. Pretty much a scenario of the trends to watch out for in 2012!

Says Delhi-based designer Anuj Sharma, of Button Masala fame, “When we talk of trends for 2012, nothing really would change as such. It’ll very much be an extension of the falls and colours borrowed from 2011.” He adds, “Nor would it be very different from what we saw or wore last year.”

Fashion has always been a carrying forward of the drapes and colours of previous seasons. There is a slow progression, only when you look back, there is a realisation that you’ve come a long way. We told you fashion comes a full circle!

Speaking of colours, black and white are a given. Opines Nirali Vora, brand manager, Shrea, “Lots of earthy and warm tones like greens and yellows will be in. If we talk of the next big trend, there will be lots of organic fabrics and prints and designs will be inspired from leaves and creepers.”

Given the Indian summers, comfortable clothing has always been the big thing. She adds, “Drapes will make their presence felt like never before. Lots of drape dresses, floral prints will be seen not just on the runways but also on the streets.”

One of the very few occasions where ramp meets roads. Agrees Anuj Sharma, “Apart from the classic whites and blacks, happy yellows and oranges and warm tones will be in.”

Come summer and dresses and whites are a staple, everything else would change. Laughs Gunjan Nagpal from Aura, “There wouldn’t be a marked change from last year. But I would really want anarkalis to go out of fashion.” The ‘frocky’ drapes that have been around for a while now perhaps have been overdone. She adds, “In western wear, dresses will rule the scene. But their patterns are likely to be checks and florals and accessories like belts and hats would be in big time. In colours, earthy tones like browns and reds and mustard yellows will make a great come back.”

If 2011 was a time to razzle dazzle, shine and shimmer, gleam and glitter, according to the fashion insiders, the coming festive season won’t be any different than last year’s.

It’s not before the latter half of the year and the festive season when everybody talks of Indian wear. Shares Simrita Brar, merchandiser with an Export house, “Among Indian wear, there’s likely to be a blast from the past. Colours like turquoise and fuchsia will be experimented with like never before.” Adds Gunjan, “In Indian wear, orange and turqoiuse with lots of handwork and laces and ruffles will be seen. Apart from that, draping will be the next big word.”

There’s yet another prediction —dresses and floral prints will remain the most prominent fashion trends of 2012. Something that all the snobbish labels had us believe already a few months ago through their collections,” opines Nayyamat Arora, city-based fashion designer. A brief list of pointers as for now. Because with fashion you never know!

manpriya@tribunemail.com

Success tastes sweet
Sabia Talwar

Who hasn’t heard of Yo Yo Honey Singh, the king of rappers, especially if you belong to Punjab where a geri is incomplete without playing his hits like Chaska, Panga and more recent ones like Dop Shop and Brown Rang from the album International Villager? We catch up with the artiste to know more about this happening rapper.

Honey, who started his career as a music producer in 2006, never planned anything. Music just happened to him. He says, “I never wanted to be a rapper. My first rap was for Ashok Masti’s Glassi in English and it got the ETC award for the best sound.”

What followed next was Raj Brar’s Chandigarh De Nazaare in 2007. “I loved the response and I enjoyed doing the rap.”

It was the time when Daljit Dosanjh approached Honey and his career moved to another level. He says, “The moment Daljit came to me I knew his personality demanded something different and so we decided to name his album The Next Level.

Honey believes that ‘anybody can do anything’ and ‘if you want to win the game, change it’. “Because of my belief in myself, I can convince people easily,” quips Honey sipping a Diet Pepsi. As we raise our eyebrows about the ‘Diet’ part, Honey explains, “Nowadays, I’m particular about my diet and workout. I want to have a good on-screen presence, so I have to shed all my excess weight.”

Born and brought up in Punjab, Honey is busy shuttling between Chandigarh and Mumbai. “After Panga and Chaska, I started living in the rural parts of Punjab and understood that the youth is trapped in Bahar Jaan Da Phatur and Nasha. Nobody was even aware of the significance of March 23 and hence I came up with Jatt Soorme. I wanted to tell the youth that going abroad is pointless, so serve your motherland.” 

According to Honey, rap, which originated in Africa, is just another way of expressing oneself.

He says, “I compose raps by being observant and I pick up elements from my surroundings. So, my music talks about the reality. Just as singing is poetry combined with composition, rapping is expressing your words with the help of a beat.” How difficult is it for him to switch on to the more mature persona of a music producer after being known so long as the cool dude?

“I will always remain thankful to my fans and that is why my name is Yo Yo Honey Singh which means your own.”

Honey also happens to act in his upcoming movie Mirza-The Untold Story due for release in April.

“I’m playing a grey character and Gippy Grewal is in the main lead. So, acting is yet another thing which I had never planned for.”

As for his success the rapper says he believes in team work which is the reason why he has come up with successful collaborations till date.

He signs off by saying, “I’m proud to be a Punjabi and I have started from scratch .This is just the beginning.” Way to go, Honey!

sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com

A friend indeed!
Having a friend helps one to stick to resolutions

People begin New Year resolutions seriously enough — only to abandon them midway. But having a friend can boost the likelihood of sticking to them, suggests a study.

This finding implies that buddy schemes could make a big difference to people following dieting plans, health programmes and could be integrated into state-run wellbeing initiatives.

“Specific plans regarding when, where and how a person will act have been termed implementation intentions,” explained Mark Conner, professor in psychology at the University of Leeds, who co-authored the study.

“We already know that these kinds of plans can be really effective. You set up cues that prompt your planned behaviour, if I walk to work on Monday, then I will jog home, if I feel hungry before lunch then I will eat an apple, not a chocolate bar,” said Conner.

Research by Conner and colleagues Andrew Prestwich and Rebecca Lawton from Leeds has now demonstrated that this effect can be made even stronger if you get other people - friends, family, colleagues - involved too, according to a university statement.

The team worked with employees from 15 councils who volunteered to participate in two studies attempting to increase their levels of exercise or improve their diet.

“We followed up after one, three and six months to see how the employees were doing. And it was quite clear that working together and joint planning really helped employees stick to their new exercise regimes. Moreover, the involvement of a partner in planning had a sustained effect that was still noticeable after six months,” concluded Connor.—IANS

Kareena all the way
Kareena Kapoor is one lucky star. After a Khan-studded 2011, she is working with the top Khans again in 2012

Second innings

Top notch: Kareena Kapoor with Aamir Khan Aamir Khan: Kareena is the only actress to have worked with Aamir on two consecutive films. Aamir’s last film was 3 Idiots. They reunite romantically for Reema Kagti’s romantic thriller Talaash. Rani Mukerji also stars in the film and this is Bebo and Rani’s first film together since Mujhse Dosti Karoge more than a decade ago. Bebo reportedly plays a commercial sex worker in the movie which will be out in June.

Top notch: Kareena Kapoor with Aamir Khan 

Reunion tour

good pair: Salman Khan with Kareena Kapoor; and Tagging along: Kareena Kapoor with Shah Rukh Khan
good pair: Salman Khan with Kareena Kapoor; and Tagging along: Kareena Kapoor with Shah Rukh Khan

Shah Rukh Khan: Kareena and SRK worked together in Ra.One and everybody is ware of the success of Chammak Challo. They will reunite this year to shoot for Rohit Shetty’s Chennai Express around summer 2012. The film should release by the end of 2012, if all goes according to schedule. Rohit Shetty is known for that.

Friends indeed

Imran Khan: She is working with the youngest Khan for the first time in Shakun Batra’s directorial debut Ek Main Aur Ekk Tuu. Imran is very fond of Kareena as an actress and the team waited for her dates as nobody else could do the role. Kareena and Saif have now become friends with Imran and Avantika.

Not jinxed anymore

Salman Khan: After the smashing success of Bodyguard, Kareena silenced everyone who said that her pairing with Salman was jinxed. She isn’t shooting with Salman this year and there is no film in the pipeline for them together, as yet. Recently, at an awards function she picked Salman over SRK.

Wedding and action

Saif Ali Khan: Kareena is all set to become the Prince’s Princess or begum this year. A summer wedding is on the cards and preparations are on in full swing. Their much-awaited action thriller Agent Vinod will finally see the light of day on March 23, after nearly two years in the making.

Will Players strike gold?

In 2012, Bollywood opens its account with the adaption of the old Hollywood blockbuster, The Italian Job. Will the audiences go for gold and make Players the first hit of the year?

Our in-house expert and noted astro-numerologist Bhavikk Sangghvi predicts the fate of this heist film: The title Players is adding up to Number 23 – this octave of Number 5 is a very fortunate number. It indicates success, help from superiors and protection from those in high places. It is one of the luckiest numbers in dealing with future events. The year 2012 adding up to Number 5 (Mercury) and the film title vibrating on the same number is an added bonus. But alas! The release date of 6th January 2012 is a day ruled by Venus – the planet of love, peace, and harmony whereas this one’s an ‘action thriller’. —HRM

On a comeback trail

Karisma Kapur is looking so gorgeous and glamourous that the mother-of-two could give any other actress a run for her money. Dangerous Ishq, directed by Vikram Bhatt, is her much-awaited Bollywood comeback. It was supposed to be an erotic thriller but Karisma put her foot down on the bold scenes.

Vikram Bhatt’s films are known for their bold content and intimate scenes. Take Haunted and 1920, for instance. This is his first film with an established leading lady in a while so he had to do away with the intimate scenes if he wanted Karisma to be in the movie. She is a mother-of-two now and cannot have a sexy siren image.

A source says, “The film is based on past lives and re-incarnation. It is a supernatural thriller. Karisma will romance five different men in the movie. Two of them are obsessed with her. Ravi Kissen, Rajneish Duggal, Ruslan Mumtaz, Jimmy Shergill, and Arya Babber are her co-stars as her lives are traced through the ages. Divya Dutta, Gracy Singh, and Mugdha Godse are also part of the film. Karisma chose this film over others so it has to be something special. Vikram’s forte is supernatural themes.”

Rajneish Duggal said, “There are no intimate scenes between Karisma and I. She is a phenomenal and senior actress. We just have romantic and happy moments. There is a past-life connection in our story.” Ravi Kissen said, “There was no question of intimate scenes between Karisma and myself. I am obsessed with her so I admire her from a distance.” —HRM

Bollywood calling

Pop sensation Lady Gaga is keen to land a role in a Bollywood movie. The Poker Face hit maker travelled to India in October to perform her first show in the country and mingled with actors Shah Rukh Khan and Arjun Rampal during the visit, reported a publication online.

The trip so inspired Gaga, she wrote in a post on Twitter praising the Mumbai film industry.

“I recently saw a Bollywood show in Paris and my interest in India has piqued. I would like to do a Bollywood film. I am fascinated by the dance and the clothing,” Gaga said.

The singer also said that she is planning to host a free gig in India in the near future. “I am so inspired by the country. It’s music, styles and countryside. I want to do a free show for all my fans, the next time I visit.”

PTI

Smoke without fire

Pop star Kylie Minogue has denied that she is teaming up with Madonna. The Spinning Around singer is set to mark her pop milestone with a one-off televised extravaganza, which will reportedly feature performances with her sister Dannii Minogue and former collaborators Nick Cave and Jason Donovan, a publication reported.

Minogue, 43, however, denied the duet with Madonna, saying she would love to team up with the Material Girl hit maker in the future. “It’s just a rumour, but of course it would be amazing!! maybe one day:) MadonnaKylieDuet,” she posted on Twitter. The musical extravaganza will mark her 25 years in music industry.

—PTI

Grapevine has it…

Amidst reports of her impending marriage with beau Siddharth Roy Kapoor, actress Vidya Balan, says, she would love to settle down but wedding is not on cards so soon. When asked she said, “My career is going good. I am happy. Emotionally and mentally I am in happy space. I am not thinking of marriage as of now but a right time will come for it. I do believe in the institution of marriage. I will not ignore it for long time. I will definitely get married,” she said, on the sidelines of the first look of her upcoming film, Kahani. Reportedly, Siddharth and Vidya have been dating since they met on the sets of No One Killed Jessica early last year. It has been quite a while now, since reports linking the two have been doing the rounds. Let’s see what happens.

— PTI

Sock(s) value
Denims or tights are not the only options to keep your legs warm. Stockings and pull-up socks are a sure-shot way to make a style statement this winter
Jigyasa Kapoor Chimra

In this cold weather, we all prefer to hide our legs in warm wraps of denims or tights. But the trend has changed and we are seeing a lot of stockings and pull-up socks these days. They come in different colours and style and also thickness. From opaque to thick, stockings that were once thought to be a little girl’s friend have graduated and are now complementing the shapely legs of a pretty woman!

“An essential fashion accessory that not only keeps you warm, stockings can play up an entire look,” says Nidhi from Walnut. “The variety of stockings that exist today is incredible and there is plenty to choose from. Though the length can vary from knee- length to the ones that cover entire legs, it’s the detailing like brightness and innovative textures that are placing them high on the demand graph,” she adds.

Talking trends, it’s the semi-transparent stockings that are preferred but considering the chilly winter, the thick ones are also selling well.

As for the colours, it’s black that’s stealing the show but beige, purple and silver are also quite popular. “Wearing stockings became a trend sometime ago but till now they were not bought by the masses. The trend is really catching up this winter,” says an employee at Catwalk in Sector 17. While in Hollywood celebrities like Lily Allen and Pixie Lott have taken a strong liking to stockings, in Bollywood Priyanka Chopra has been popularising this classy style item.

“The trick to carry off stockings is to team it up with the right dress. Otherwise, you can end up looking like a street walker. A cute skirt and buttoned shirt is a perfect ensemble, but shorts with stocking is quite outmoded,” says Ritu, who runs her boutique Ritu La Vichtra in Mohali.

Well, the trend of wearing stockings has become such a rage that it’s not only hi-end brands that are selling these chic pieces, now they are now readily available with the street hawkers. And mind you, they have all the designs and styles that you can ask for. Panchkula’s Sector 7 market and Shastri Market in Sector 22, Chandigarh is replete with numerous options in stockings and pull-up socks. Available at a price that is almost half the price the showrooms are asking, it gives you a good option to try out the look if you still have not.

Master Chef
Fruitful effort
Manju Dewan

What better way to fight the chill than dig into hot desserts? But a word of caution—with the decrease in physical activity we must try to keep off those excess calories. So, we stick to the simple good old apple crumble which is easy and quick to cook. You can make it with ingredients readily available and is light on the stomach because of its fruity base.

Apple pudding a la mod 

Ingredients

For fruit stew

½ kg golden apple (peeled and chopped)

½ cup sugar

½ cup water

¼ tsp cinnamon powder

For pastry crust:

1 cup maida

80 gm butter

¼ cup powdered sugar

50 gm cream

Cherries for decoration 

Method

  • Mix water, sugar and cinnamon powder and bring to boil.
  • Add chopped apple and cook for 5 minutes.
  • Keep aside and let it cool.
  • Mix maida, powdered sugar and butter to form a bread crumb like mixture.
  • Line half of the mixture in a greased pie dish and press well.
  • Pour over the fruit stew.
  • Now spread another layer of the maida mixture and press well.
  • Bake it in a preheated oven at 180 degree till golden brown.
  • Mix sugar in cream. Decorate the pie with cream and cherries and serve.

(Dewan is a Ludhiana based culinary expert.)

 As told to Poonam Bindra

Graphic details
Mona

If the younger generations' declining interest in reading and writing bothers you, well, this piece is for you.

Campfire, a publishing house that's into graphic novels, has come up with a unique online writing contest in association with Spell Bee India. Called 'Young Writer of the Year', this is open to students across India from class V to IX.

"Making money is not the motive but to promote reading and writing among the young people is," says Andy Dodd, marketing consultant with Campfire. The competition opened some 10 days back and Andy has been flooded with calls from enthusiastic writers. "Publishing industry is opening to young writers gradually and this competition gives a brilliant platform to youngsters to think and write," he adds. Campfire is all set with its team to judge the stories that show up for competition.

Open to the students attending any school in India, all one has to do is pen down 2000 words fictional tale and submit on youngwriters@ campfire.co.in by March 15, 2012. The winners not only get an ipad or android tablet and a trophy but also the chance for their story to be turned into a graphic novel. So, spread the word…

new release
Players

Abbas-Mustan have already created a niche for themselves in Bollywood. This edge of the seat thriller Players is the official remake of The Italian Job (a 1969 film starring Michael Caine, which was remade in 2003). The buzz is that Players is not the same film. The plot is much thicker. There are many new characters. The screenplay is very different from the original. The energy of the film is very different. Abbas-Mustan, the director duo know how to make an entertaining films and Players which stars Abhishek Bachchan, Bipasha Basu, Neil Nitin Mukesh, Bobby Deol, Sonam Kapoor and Omi Vaidya promises to be just that.

It is about a band of thieves attempting to pull off a spectacular heist. With a stellar cast already in place the men in white have also roped in Russian actor Vyacheslav Razbegaev for an important role in the film Mission Istanbul fame Shweta Bhardwaj has a Cameo in Players.

With every film Abbas-Mustan have come up with something better hopefully they will entertain a lot more people.

Dharam Pal

Star track

Over and out

Bipasha Basu is no longer friends with Rana Daggubatti. He has apparently gone back to his old girlfriend Trisha. She has ‘unfollowed’ him on Twitter. They are no longer good friends!








U-turn: Bipasha Basu

Final countdown: Shahid Kapoor with Priyanka Chopra Wrap up time

Shahid Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra only have to shoot for four more days for Kunal Kohli’s Teri Meri Kahaani in Aurangabad. It is a romantic comedy set in Bollywood through the decades. It releases on June 22.




Final countdown: Shahid Kapoor with Priyanka Chopra

It’s money, honey

A staggering 1,500 crore is riding on the shoulders of top Bollywood stars such as Kareena Kapoor (Heroine), Aamir Khan, Akshay Kumar, Saif Ali Khan, Salman Khan, Katrina Kaif, and others.

Bittoo Boss in trouble

The Censor Board now has a problem with the apparent double-meaning dialogues in the promos of Bittoo Boss. The film depicts the world as seen through the eyes of a cameraman.

Complimentary package

Veteran filmmaker Kamal Haasan is happy with Aamir Khan’s choice of films. We agree. His versatility is par excellence.

Moving act: Ranbir Kapoor Tear jerkers

We have heard that Ranbir Kapoor and Ileana D’cruz have done some emotional scenes in Barfee so beautifully and intensely that the crew members were in tears watching them. The movie is out in 2012.




Moving act: Ranbir Kapoor

Party animal: Ameesha Patel Friends and fun

Ameesha Patel brought in the New Year shopping and partying with Kuunal Goomer, his wife Shamli and a couple of other friends.







Party animal: Ameesha Patel

Chatter box

Strange connect

When 30-year-old Manish Raisinghani was asked to play the love interest opposite the 14-year-old Avika Gor, he was apprehensive. Soon he got used to it and became friends with her. Gradually their off-screen friendship helped Manish who loves photography and he pursued his hobby by clicking Avika’s pictures. In fact one could say she has become his muse. He ensured to get her permission along with her parents too. Smart boy!






The muse: Avika Gor

Not right: Arjun Bijalani Arjun’s loss is Mrunal’s gain

Makers of Zee’s Hitler Didi wanted to bring the Miley Jab Hum Tum pair - Arjun Bijlani and Rati Pandey together in their show. While Rati plays a strict professional, Arjun had given an audition for the role of a stoic builder. But apparently, the channel and the makers didn’t find him convincing enough for the role so they roped in Mrunal Jain who is seen in the role currently on the show.


Not right: Arjun Bijalani

Parvati Seghal Acting pricey

Parvati Sehgal aka Komal of Star Plus’ Mann Kee Awaaz Pratigya is the latest to quit the show. After Monika Singh aka Pratigya’s mom, Komal’s husband and Krishna’s mother- Parvati will quit the show as she isn’t happy with her role post the leap.


Parvati Seghal

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: This is a fine day to plan for future business expansion. Someone you are attracted to at work feels the same way. Eat wisely; though, you could be in danger of suffering digestive problems due to it. Tarot message: Take limited risks while speculating. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 55

TAURUS: Conquer your fear and take a chance to live to the fullest. You may be worried and concerned about certain family issues. There could be delays with certain business ventures. Tarot message: Outline your goals ahead of time then make a plan for achieving them. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 28

GEMINI: The Queen of Pentacles blesses you with the finest qualities today. Things happen quickly and you need to take quick decisions. Children will be a source of joy and their progress will make you proud. Tarot message: Don’t accept situations you dislike. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 34

CANCER: Romance will lead to happy moments and singles can meet someone special while socialising. Be wary of internet purchase from unknown website unless you are sure of their integrity. Tarot message: A bird in hand is worth more than two in the bush. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 36

LEO: The wisdom of The Hermit inspires you to make new beginnings and move in a creative direction. Spending time with family will bring a sense of peace. Gains from new sources of income are likely. Tarot message: Beware of depleting your energy or resources on others. Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 46

VIRGO: The Magician conjures up some travel and business opportunities. You will unexpectedly hear from someone, which will be like a voice from your past. Couples could be getting cabin fever, so create a congenial living space. Tarot message: Trust your intuition. Lucky colour: Sky blue. Magic number: 54

LIBRA: You are articulate and others are ready to tune in to what you are offering. Business deals are on the boil but still inconclusive. By evening you can be in an irritable mood and might lose temper. Tarot message: Avoid frictions with business partners. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 62

SCORPIO: It looks like a very busy day ahead but any partying and indulgence of previous evenings could be catching up with you. Your chances of success are better today than ever before. Take the yogic help to relax. Tarot message: Be firm and stand your ground.  Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 59

SAGITTARIUS: The Prince of Wands rides in his flaming chariot of gold to instigate dynamic changes at work. You should take some advice from the people whom you see as your ideal in all the matters of life. Tarot message: Remember never to fall for rash promises. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 52

CAPRICORN: Today mixing with friends could be a tricky business. If you don’t want to be alone, choose a companion who is least likely to irritate you. Plan for an overseas vocation can get green light. Tarot message: Consolidate your gains instead of throwing security to the winds. Lucky colour: Grey. Magic number: 58

AQUARIUS: Passionate emotions are likely to accompany your actions and you might be more impulsive than usual. You will have a better chance of getting through odd jobs. Tarot message: Lack of confidence or lack of caution can leave you in losses. Lucky colour: Rust. Magic number: 45

PISCES: The Hanged Man helps you to move into new and better situation. Spirituality beckons, and you are inclined to try and find out more about it. Take your partner to the movies and enjoy escaping into fantasy together. Tarot message: Focus on your dream project. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 56

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is January 6...

Today is the day to be bold and start something. The theme of tempering potentially reckless behavior continues as you move into New Year. Indeed, a new spirit is welcome as long as humility and caution are factored into the equation. A delicate balance between action and patience is required as 2012 comes into focus. Honour the radical warrior within, but be sure all your actions are steeped in integrity. There’s no password to unlock the career you know you deserve. Turn to friends and co-workers for advice — you’ll learn some important things about the way you behave in a professional setting.

2012 is a great year to implement some sweeping interpersonal changes. There’s no need to wait for your partner to make the first move. Marketing ideas, surprise announcements and team bonding activities should all go well. You’ll manage to deal with the various tasks you have and won’t overdo things. This is mainly thanks to the positive atmosphere of this period. On the economic side, you must be careful to organise diligently in order to dodge any risk of robbery or loss.

If you are experiencing a slump in your education, then you need not worry. You will overcome the bad period with appropriate remedial solutions. Investment in new business will be the hallmark. You may set up financial plans in a new direction. You may be pleasantly surprised by some unexpected gains. You may have a new financial opportunity knocking on your door. Make the most of it! Positive changes can be ushered in through regular exercise. Emotional problems can have an adverse effect on your health.

Your workload can be troublesome and cause problems. You may turn to reiki, meditation, etc for solace. Mood: In a bit of a rush and slightly ‘aggressive’ at times. Compatible signs: Aquarius, Pisces. Lucky colours: Brown, cornflower Blue. Lucky days: Monday and Tuesday. Lucky numbers: 6, 18, 23, 41, 60. Lucky gem: Zircon or Solitaire. Lucky Flower: White Rose

Allah Rakha Rahman (January 6, 1966, Chennai, born as AS Dileep Kumar) made an album Vande Mataram (1997) on India’s 50th anniversary of Independence. His film career began in the early 1990s. He has won 13 Filmfare Awards, four National Film Awards, a BAFTA Award, a Golden Globe and two Academy Awards. He is described as one of the most innovative composers in the industry, his unique style and immense success transformed film music in the 1990s prompting several film producers to take film music more seriously. Rahman’s horoscope shows good combination of Mercury and Venus bestowing music and money.





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