Behind the curtain
As Chandigarh moves on to become a serious hub of theatre, the value of backstage artists is being realised more and more
Vasudha Gupta

A large part of the theatre ambience depends on the kind of lights being used, the stage set up and the music running in the background. The time where actors doubled as backstage artistes holds no relevance today. As theatre becomes popular, we ask youngsters about their thoughts on the same.

Ojasvi Kaushal, a 23-year-old, comes from a prestigious engineering background and did not think even once before getting into theatre. A passionate guitar player, Ojasvi came in contact with the Rang Virasat Theatre Group through his website. “It was when I was developing a social networking website for international artistes that I came in touch with the group,” he says. Aware of all music software, he tends to form the backbone of all their plays. Also the lead vocalist of his college band, Ojasvi has enough experience in acting. “Having been a part of the theatre group has given me enough exposure to hone my skills,” he says.

Talking from an expert’s point-of-view, they believe that the culture of backstage is still not as established due to the lack of commercial viability. “If you talk about Chandigarh as a focal point of theatre, there are not too many who are willing to work even on stage. There are even fewer who are willing to work behind the stage,” shares Vijay Kumar Machal, director of the Mask Theatre.

There is no doubt that theatre gives actors a wider idea of their responsibilities, yet there are a few who think that backstage is more of front stage. Handling backstage for the Alankar Theatre group, 21-year-old Sanjay Sharma, says, “There was a time when not much attention was paid to the backstage. Today, it is as vital as acting. Any flaw behind the curtains is visible in the front,” he says. Handling props has not come easy. “My work as an event co-coordinator has come in handy and paved the way for understanding props and projection,” he shares with us.

Backstage in any theatre performance has its own life. Sahib Singh, a director, actor and an acclaimed playwright of the Adakar Manch shares his thoughts on the same. “Backstage in theatre has always held prime value. Even if forms have changed, the importance of backstage has remained where it always has,” he says. Being an expert in the field, he strongly feels that any flaw in the backstage is sure to make its presence felt on stage. The ambience of the entire set up helps in contributing to the perfection in the actors’ performance. Comprising 35 actors in his theatre group, Sahib is of the opinion that an army of all-rounders is better than searching for professionals as far as backstage work is concerned.

“In Chandigarh, it is not a possible to have professionals. It is only in institutes like the National School of Drama that backstage professionals find a platform,” he says. Plus there is no doubting the fact that movies tend to impact Indian minds the most. Himanshu Dwivedi (24) from the Indian Theatre Department, Punjab University, feels strongly for the point. “It is due to the impact of Bollywood that very few youngsters are involved backstage work,” he says. It is after the inclination towards drama and the big screen that the true essence of acting is realised and the movement towards theatre happens. “There is also a strong notion that backstage in theatre is low paying, which is not true. Backstage, in fact, is the highest paying in this field,” he says.


vasudha@tribunemail.com

Nothing personal about it!
Sharing personal details at places where you are a regular shopper may not be such a bad idea after all
Sabia Talwar

While shopping, each one of you must have faced this rather annoying dilemma at some point or other — whether to give out personal information to retailers or at shopping malls.

According to a latest survey of more than 28,000 people in 15 countries, this is the era of candid consumers — from their food allergies to home addresses; shoppers around the world are increasingly sharing personal information with their favourite retailers or shopkeepers, even as they look forward to a more efficient shopping experience. The study has also revealed that people are willing to share information if there is a perceived benefit and it necessarily doesn’t have to be a monetary benefit.

Says Renu Varma, a Chandigarh-based housewife, “When I have to fill forms for a survey that is definitely annoying because shopping is one activity where you want to give time to yourself. But if the retailers are offering some special discounts through membership cards, I don’t mind giving out personal details.” She adds, “I keep in mind the brand or shop I’m giving my details to, but if I know that I will not buy things from a particular place I will ignore such queries.”

For some it really depends on how loyal they are towards a specific brand or a place. “I’m a regular customer for MAC cosmetics, so I definitely make it a point to give these outlets my details. For any place if I’m a regular customer, I don’t mind sharing details.” She adds, “If given an option between providing my contact number or e-mail address, I prefer giving the latter because I feel contact numbers can be misused any time,” says Ashnit Sachdev, a Chandigarh-based graduate who is currently preparing for her GMAT exam.

Though it is well-known fact that men are not that crazy for shopping as women, some just enjoy buying things according to their choice and also agree to give out information at times. Says Sachit Singal, a Chandiagrh-based young entrepreneur, “I give out my personal details only when there are some offers or benefits from the retailer’s side. However, on a regular basis it becomes pretty annoying when the sales team literally forces you to fill out the forms.” He adds, “I always prefer to give my e-mail address rather than my contact number and if I’m interested in the offers, I make it a point to revert back.”

Then there are some who give out their information details readily and wait for the right deals. Says Rohini Sharma, a Chandigarh-based housewife, “Whenever I’m asked to fill out a form or to speak out my details I happily agree. I feel that the buyer and the seller have a transparent relationship and I wait for the right deals to come my way.” She adds, “As for filling the forms for any survey, I feel that it is a help to the retailers and it is our responsibility as a consumer to give feedback.”

Now, will you think twice before giving out your personal details the next time you go shopping?

sabiatalwar@tribunemal.com

Exploring new dimensions

Handsome actor Gurmeet Choudhary’s last show Geet has ended, but he won’t be gone for too long as he will soon be back with a brand new show. He will be seen with Kratika Sengar in Zee TVs upcoming show Punar Vivaah which as the title suggests is based on re- marriage and adjustments post marriage. Gurmeet gives out the details…

Are you missing your last show, Geet?

Obviously. I had a relationship with Geet for two years and I made many friends in the unit, so it is close to my heart. Geet gave me a lot and it has been hardly a month since the show ended. I do miss it.

Who are you in touch with from the unit?

Right now most of the unit folks, actors are on a break, on vacations, visiting family or simply chilling out. You know after working for two years non-stop, it feels really wonderful to have some free time. Everyone has been enjoying this break and no one has been in touch as it has been a month since Geet ended. I guess after another month we would miss each other and get in touch.

What did you do in the break?

During my break, I worked on my physique. I would go for walks, workout on the Juhu beach each morning. I kept myself busy with martial arts, dance and gymming as I didn’t want to waste time. When we have shoots, it is tough to maintain a good body and one must utilise a break properly.

Tell us about your new show Punar Vivaah

I didn’t expect to get such a good role and show so soon after Geet. I thought I would not work for at least four to six months but when Punar Vivaah came to me, I couldn’t refuse as the concept is brilliant and my character too is remarkable. Working on a new show, new role is always challenging. I am sure it will help me take my career forward.

What can the audience expect?

The story is about re-marriage as the title suggests. The story moves forward when these two people get married and leave their past behind and make a life together. — HRM

Shopping WEB
City-based entrepreneurs Kabir Khanna and Kaushik Mukherjee launch trideal.in — tricity’s very own exclusive deals website 
Jasmine Singh

Who has the time to shop? Visit a hundred places for one jacket or a laptop, even if it is on sale? So, what is the next best option? An online deal, especially when Chandigarh has its own portal that facilitates the same. Trideal.in, a portal launched by Kabir Khanna and Kaushik Mukherjee will make available the best deals in Panchkula, Chandigarh and Mohali. As the two say, “The over-arching aim of trideal.in is to provide a richer quality of life to the citizens of tricity by spending less, much less. We have launched this to provide best discounts to folks here.”

Two to tango: Kaushik Mukherjee and Kabir Khanna
Two to tango: Kaushik Mukherjee and Kabir Khanna

Trideal.in works on a business model, which gives the users a chance to get great discounts and at the same time opening a completely new channel of customers for the city-based brands. “It is easy to use with a multitude of deals having both online and offline payment options,” shares the duo.

Sometimes it is a problem of plenty. The online portal would help you know where to go and what to buy. Kabir, a computer graduate - the one who was instrumental in starting Chalkpad Technologies in 2008, which was benchmarked as Red Herring Top 100 Asia companies in 2011 - feels online products are a ready answer to many problems. “We sell stuff we want to buy and at half the price. We will give the best deals and information for the people and they should feel that they have handy information on the same.”

Kaushik Mukherjee, on the other hand, is the associate vice-president in a BPO. He was instrumental in mobilising 60 per cent of the credit card revenue through strong execution of various innovatively designed lifestyle products and offerings. 

Divya Dutta celeb point
Moving the write way
Divya Dutta

When I watched Kaun Banega Crorepati, I looked at the host in awe, his sheer charm and energy rubbing on to me! Like in childhood after watching a Bachchan flick, I'd say, “Mujhe Amitabh Bachchan banna hai.” Now, when I saw KBC, I thought to myself, ‘how I'd love to host a show. Ask questions, enjoy the interactions and charm the contestants!

And someone up there heard me! Sonymax came to me with an offer to host the first ever Bollywood Quiz show on the trivia of films. And listening as always to my heart, I said yes! Then of course, the tests started and channel meetings and discussions—how to make it a rocking show. I just told them let me be myself and we will have a blast! Looking pretty is a patient job and patience is not one of my virtues! So, getting ready was a major task and then interacting with contestants, extracting stuff, chatting, pulling them up, knowing them, cheering them was a task but I enjoyed it. The show was a success. Mission accomplished and like all good ones, season one came to an end. But the channel decided to give the filmi janta a doze of what they love! Movies quiz but in a book form. I released my book called The Quiz Book on Films recently. Being on the back page and writing a preface for it, has been a first for me and thus truly special. As I released the book, I played the quiz again with everyone. We loved it. And they all will. Because hum sab ki rag rag mein filmein basti hain. I top that list. As I finish reading the book trying to guess the answers, I think it’s a super time pass and a break from our constant mobile use. Padiyega zaroor, to test your filmi quotient. 

(Dutta is a Bollywood actress)

Master Chef
One for the eye! 
Manju Dewan

Presentation and garnishing of food is an art. When something appeals to the eye half the job of pleasing the palate is done. Of course, the taste has to match the visual impact but it has now become important to present a delicacy in an artistic manner. Semonila is very easy to digest and can be had in many ways. We have a recipe for you which uses this grain and looks good to the eye. Something nutritious and healthy for the kiddos and an eye catcher at the coffee parties.

Semolina duck

Ingredients:

n 1 cup semolina (suji)

n 2 cups boiling water

n ½ cup onions (finely chopped)

n ½ cup peas (boiled)

n 2 tsp lemon juice

n 2 tsp sugar

n 1 tbsp oil

n ½ tsp mustard seeds

n 8-10 curry leaves

n Salt, to taste

For garnishing:

1 tomato (hollow and round sliced), Cashewnuts 

Method

n Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds and curry leaves.

n When the mustard seeds start spluttering, add chopped onions and cook it for a minute.

n Now, add semolina and cook for 2-3 minutes.

n Add lemon juice, salt, sugar and green peas.

n Pour boiling water and mix well. Cook for 3-4 minutes.

n When the mixture cools a little, take a spoonful and shape it like a duck.

n For garnishing place a cashew nut in the centre. Decorate with a tomato slice. (you can use red capsicum instead of tomato)

n Serve with green chutney.

(Dewan is a Ludhiana-based culinary expert)

As told to Poonam Bindra

Bigger & better 
SRK’s latest grand venture is based on Karna

Shah Rukh Khan has accomplished his dream project Ra.One. He is now moving on to a bigger dream that is actually keeping him awake these days.

If the budget of Ra.One was Rs 100 crore, the budget of his latest vanity project is Rs 200 crore . This film is the reason why SRK still looks tired and pale even though Ra.One and Don 2 were released long ago. The latest grand venture is based on Karna, one of the most complex and intriguing characters of the Mahabharat.

So he is having continuous meetings with his most trusted people at Red Chillies to prepare a presentation for this project which will have absolutely awesome special effects. This presentation is being prepared for the Berlin Film Festival which will be held a month later. He is presenting his film to Hollywood biggies there.

SRK has asked his team to give their inputs for the character of Karna. He is burning the midnight oil with his team and racing against time. He might essay the character of the epic warrior himself. He is keen on casting prominent Hollywood names in the movie and he is looking for a prestigious producer. Clearly, he is working hard on his dream of winning an Oscar and taking India to Hollywood. Maybe Anil Kapoor could help him out with his contacts in Hollywood. It will be at least two years before Karna hits cinemas as SRK is busy with other films. —HRM

Puppy love 

Former Hannah Montana star Miley Cyrus gifted her boyfriend Liam Hemsworth a puppy for his 22nd birthday. The 19-year-old singer-actress has named pet pooch Ziggy, reported a website. "Got Liam the best bday pressie ever! (sic)," Cyrus tweeted.

She also posted a picture of the cute canine.

"Liam wanted to name her Ziggy! I said NOOO WAY! She is an angel! She loves her bro & sis too! (sic)," Cyrus wrote on Twitter.

The pair first met on the set of The Last Song in June 2009 and shared an 18 month relationship which ended in November 2010. They rekindled their romance last summer and Miley recently described Hemsworth as the perfect boyfriend because he is such a great listener.

—PTI

Clooney is not father material: Amara Miller 

Child actress Amara Miller, who plays George Clooney's daughter in The Descendants, says that the actor is not father material. The 11-year-old, who made her debut in The Descendants said that the 50-year-old, who is known for his playboy image, does not want to have kids in the near future, reported a magazine.

"Let me just say, he wouldn't be good as a father. He wouldn't be the best as a father. George likes being an adult. George has fun being an adult, and I don't think he would like having kids. I know that he's not planning on having kids anytime soon," Miller said.

The Descendants bagged the Golden Globe for the best motion picture – drama while Clooney got the best actor trophy. The film is about a land baron, who tries to reconnect with his two daughters after his wife suffers a boating accident. The film also stars Judy Greer and Shailene Woodley and will release in India on January 26. — PTI

Oscar not the goal 

Hollywood heartthrob Leonardo DiCaprio says he does not consider the award when he signs up to take on a role. The J Edgar star, who has been nominated for three Oscars in his career, said he prefers to think about the people he will work with, a website reported. "I don't think I ever expected anything like an Oscar ever, to tell you the truth. That is not my motivation when I do these roles. I really am motivated by being able to work with great people and create a body of work that I can look back and be proud of," he said.

The 37-year-old actor is always grateful when people are talking about movies he is in, but has come to learn not all of his films will be a success in the eyes of audiences. "I have learned from my experiences in this industry that there is absolutely no way to control people's opinions on your performance in your movie. “You go out there, promote your film and hope people like the work you did. But they're going to respond the way they're going to respond when they're in a room with that ballot," he added.

—PTI

Incredible India

Oprah Winfrey American talk show host Oprah Winfrey, who is on her maiden visit to India, is amazed by the tolerance and system of joint families in the country.

"What I love most about this country is their tolerance... how the families learn to love and live together. When I was in America and talking to famous people (from India) I would ask how you live with your parents? Now I see how you do it," she said. She visited a city slum at Colaba and is also expected to have dinner with a family of four generations. Oprah, who arrived here yesterday, is in the country for Next Chapter, a new series of her famous talk show The Oprah Winfrey Show, in which she would travel around the world interviewing celebrities, news-makers and others. She kicked off her week-long visit to India by partying with Bollywood stars last night. —PTI

 

It’s a Bolly-holiday!

Bollywood celebrities lead intensely busy lives and they need their space to unwind and chill. We tell you where celebrities like to let their hair down

Kareena Kapoor
Lap of luxury

Kareena Kapoor
Her annual Swiss holidays with Saif Ali Khan are very well known. They own a chalet in an idyllic place. How lovely is that!


Priyanka Chopra Water baby

Priyanka Chopra
She is a complete water baby and loves going to Thailand when she needs a break and for her birthday celebrations.

Sun, sand, sea…
Shahid Kapoor
He loves going to Chandigarh to meet his spiritual guru. Otherwise, he likes chilling out in Goa with his friends.

Anushka Sharma Nature lover
Anushka Sharma
She loves going to Rishikesh on her own. Whenever she needs a break she goes away to a mountain place on her own. She loves spending time in nature.

Mountain girl: Anushka Sharma

Teen-trums 

Teenagers are more vulnerable to drug abuse and mood disorders because their brains function differently when they are enjoying themselves, scientists have suggested.

A study of rats found more neurons were activated in adolescents’ brains when they received tasty treats than those of adults – meaning they over-processed rewards and became vulnerable to addictive or impulsive behaviour.

This could explain why youngsters take more risks and tend to develop disorders like addiction, depression and schizophrenia.

“Adolescents often respond differently than adults to ... peer interactions and pleasurable stimuli,” said Professor Bita Moghaddam, with doctoral student David Sturman of Pittsburgh University in the US.

They said that recognising the difference in brain processes of adolescents was critical to understanding this phenomenon, as well as their behavioural and psychiatric problems, such as drug abuse and mood disorders. —ANI

Sugar-coated youth

A skin serum that contains synthetic versions of glycans, naturally occurring sugars in the skin, has become a new weapon against aging. Hailed as the “holy grail” of anti-ageing, Forever Youth Liberator from Yves Saint Laurent had already racked up more than 5,000 pre-orders.

In a trial of 50 women, nine out of ten said their skin looked more luminous after using the lotion, while 72 per cent said fine lines were less visible.

“Glycobiology is going to change the world in many areas and it is a very important development in skincare too,” said science writer and broadcaster Vivienne Parry.

“Glycans are complicated sugars that play a key role in the structure of the skin. They also sit on the surface of cells and transmit messages to them. Glycans reduce with age. These glycans can make skin cells act as they would have when in a younger body,” Parry explained.

YSL worked with Professor Peter Seeberger, of Germany’s Max Planck Institute, to develop the serum.

“I was surprised YSL was interested in my work. I’m interested in health, not face paint. Still, we were able to apply our existing techniques to glycans in skin,” he said.

But the search for eternal youth is not cheap. Just 30g — just more than two tablespoons of the serum — is 50 pounds. —ANI

The ‘in’ side
Keep it straight 
Sukhmani

If you want to keep up with the latest decorating styles, then contemporary or straight line décor is the answer. This style is simple, subtle and sophisticated. It highlights space rather than things. By focusing on colour space and shape, straight line décor is sleek and stylish. This style has gone through a complete makeover and is no longer considered cold and uninviting. Keep these tips in mind while designing your living space—

n Neutrals, browns, black, white and cream are mainly used with accents of a bright and bold colour like yellow, red or orange.

n The most distinct element of this style is its straight lines.

n The look should be clean and uncluttered. Furniture should have straight lines with no frills, trims, curves or carvings. Avoid using dainty floral prints.

n Abolish cute and small and go for the basic, bare and bold.

n Use natural fabrics like silk, linen, cotton or wool. Leather can also be used.

n Your accessories should be few but large. Place them strategically to create a focal point in the room.

n As for artwork, use large abstracts with bright colours or a group of black and white paintings. The frames can be wood or chrome finish.

n Hardwood flooring, vinyl, polished concrete and stone finish go well with contemporary décor.

n Layered lighting is done with track lights, spot lights, concealed lighting and floor lamps. Use chrome, nickel or stainless steel fixtures.

n Window blinds or eyelet curtains work best with this style. Do not use any lace, frills or tassels.

n Use platform beds or beds with straight headboards in the bedroom to get the contemporary look. Use large bright pillows.

n In the kitchen use larger tiles instead of small. If you use grey, silver and black tiles for your kitchen, accent it with bright coloured dishes like red, blue or yellow.

n Make use of mirrored mosaic tiles in the bathroom and accent with bright colored towels and candles.

Remember, less is more…

(Sukhmani is a Chabdigarh-based interior & landscape designer)

Doc Talk
Can anti-oxidants fight wrinkles?
Dr Vikas Sharma

There is much hype over antioxidants. More and more people are taking antioxidant-based products, whether they are being prescribed by a physician or not. Antioxidants can not eliminate wrinkles or other effects of aging, simply because growing old is a natural process of life. Skin thickness increases with age, while skin elasticity decreases; this cannot be avoided.

But most cosmetic companies today claim that their products can eliminate the signs of aging, erase the wrinkles and produce a newer, fresher look.

What are anti-oxidants? Antioxidants are chemicals that protect cells by neutralising external forces (such as damage from the sun, pollution, wind and temperature) and internal factors (for example, emotions, metabolism, and the presence of excess oxygen). Common antioxidants are Vitamins A, C, E, and beta-carotene.

Antioxidants are necessary because they combat free radicals. Free radicals are byproducts that are formed when oxygen is used by the body. Free radicals start a chain-reaction under the skin's surface, and outlined below is the process of destruction. Free radicals also alter  our DNA, which results in skin disorders.

Some forces that cause free-radicals are air pollution, sunlight, alcohol, cigarette smoke and stress.

That's where antioxidants can help. Incorporating the right antioxidants into diet does not eliminate ageing and various disorders but over the time they help in reducing the load of free radicals thus helping us to age gracefully.

Antioxidants are nutrients (vitamins and minerals) and enzymes (proteins inside your body) that can help to prevent and repair damage to your body's tissue. Antioxidants do this by slowing or preventing the effect of free radicals, which start oxidation -- a process that causes damage from oxygen that can lead to cell dysfunction.

You can find antioxidants -- such as beta-carotene, lutein, lycopene, selenium and vitamins A, C and E -- naturally in many foods, including fruits and vegetables, nuts, grains.

When it comes to caring for your skin, antioxidants can help to protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. Unlike sunscreens and moisturisers, antioxidants can protect your skin from the inside out by guarding your cells from damage. Vitamins A, C and E and the mineral selenium are thought to be particularly helpful in skin care. In addition to helping fortify cells against free radicals, Vitamins A and C also encourage cell and tissue growth, helping the body to repair itself.

Just like when adding any supplement to your diet, be careful when incorporating antioxidants into your daily routine. Though they are naturally good for you, antioxidants taken in excess can be harmful. In most cases, all you need to fulfill your body's quota for antioxidants is a healthy and balanced diet.

(Dr Sharma is a Chandigarh-based dermatologist and dermato-laser surgeon.)

chatter box
Wedding bells

marital bliss: Zulfi Sayed Ex Bigg Boss contestant Zulfi Syed got married to Sheena Verma and held a grand reception which was attended by many telly stars. Sudhanshu Pandey and Shawar Ali came dressed in suits, Rahul Mahajan danced with his wife Dimpy. The newly-wed couple looked perfect together as Zulfi was all smiles adorned in a black sherwani while his wife was dressed in a peach lehenga.

marital bliss: Zulfi Sayed

Hollywood way

After becoming a household name with his role as Manav in Zee’s Pavitra Rishta, Sushant Singh Rajput recently quit the show for better pastures. And he seems to have found one as he has got a Hollywood film offer. The film offered to him is called Roaring Silence by Uzma Kang, of The Fighter and Aishwarya Rai’s Provoked fame and will deal with the cultural trauma and women in Asian countries. 

Dancing shoes

Geeta Kapur who is enjoying judging on Zee’s Dance India Dance feels there is no other love for her other than dance. She began assisting Farah Khan and later made her career as a choreographer. Geeta considers Farah Khan as her mentor. 

Back in time

If you have been wondering why Dadisa was missing in the hit show Colors’ Balika Vadhu, the answer is the talented actress Surekha Sikri was suffering from a prolonged illness. After a three-month break, she will be seen on the show. The veteran actress will enter at a point when the two brothers Vasant and Bharion will be planning to separate. Watch out for her entry next week with a new avatar.

Double celebrations

Avinash Wadhawan threw a grand party to celebrate his wife Natasha’s birthday as well the birth of his son Samraat. Sara Khan, Yash Tonk, Amar Upadhyay, Deepiksha came with boyfriend Kaishav Arora, Rohit Verma, Rajeev Paul and many others
attended the do.

(L-R) Tina Dutta, Juhi Babbar with husband, Anup Soni

Calendar stories
Ronit Roy attended a calendar launch with his wife Neelam. It was hosted by Basab Paul. Anup Soni came with his wife Juhi Babbar, Uttaran star Tina Dutta was seen by Rohit Khurana’s side while Suchitra Krishnamoorty mingled with Smiley Suri and Naved Jaffri.

Happy hours: (L-R) Tina Dutta, Juhi Babbar with husband, Anup Soni

Happy hours: (L-R) Tina Dutta, Juhi Babbar with husband, Anup Soni

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is January 19...

Business people will be planning a journey and also sign fresh proposals. Be aware of the limits to which a business relationship can be stretched. Be open to new experiences, and remember to thank your host. Joint ventures will make steady progress. A tendency to indulge in excess would prove to be rather expensive for you. Unemployed people are encouraged to be pro-active. Lounging on the sofa will not help them to find the best opportunities and it’s time to send your resume. If you waste time whining, you will sadly discover that no one was listening anyway. It is high time you realised that life isn’t fair. But you should not give up hope. Instead, give up the methods that do not work. 

If you swallow the bitterness, the dessert will taste sweeter. A time has come to look out for a suitable match for the youngster. You may have to cancel your social engagement or other extra curricular activities due to heavy workload. However, your employer will suitably compensate you. Career issues will be as usual. Do not get upset and bid your time as soon you will get an opportunity to present your side to the seniors.

A quiet and a calm approach will sort out things to satisfaction of all concerned. Some of you may catch a cold. However, seniors in the family may complain of health problems. Your powers of discernment come in handy, with all the unusual characters passing through your life. Your psychosis proves to be ideal for multitasking. You and your multiple personalities are able to accomplish some amazing feats when you’re synced in the same dimension. You and your colleagues are locking horns and can’t let go. You might find that you have good luck with flowers and plants now.  Working on creative projects gives you a burst of energy. Put aside mundane chores for the moment and focus on pursuits that make you happy. You need a release.

Mood: Focused, clear and insightful. Compatible signs: Aquarius, Taurus, Leo. Lucky days: Monday. Lucky colours: Sea green, silver. Lucky numbers: 1, 2, 50, 65, 76. Lucky gem: Aventurine, the gemstone of luck. Lucky flower: Zinnia.

Kota Srinivasa Rao
Kota Srinivasa Rao
(January 19, 1945, Vijayawada) is a highly versatile Tollywood actor. He is more famous for his roles as villain, comedy and character roles. He is an actor who can act in any role. He was also elected as an MLA from Vijayawada East assembly constituency in Andhra Pradesh. He was born in Vijayawada in a Telugu Brahmin family.

Astro Turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Don’t hurry with work. Arguments may arise with your mate or partner. Consult the experts when cash questions come up. Finalise plans early as your mood is likely to turn to romance and fantasy. Tarot message: Use your instinct to get into the top circle of power. Lucky colour: Red.

Magic number: 64.

TAURUS: Spare time for family and children. Women patients should not neglect any health problem. It should be much easier for you to meet your challenges. Stay tuned with your work to avoid problems later on. Tarot message: Set the pleasant set of events into motion. Lucky colour: Turquoise.

Magic number: 53.

GEMINI: Tension builds and tempers can fray. An irritating coworker can push you to your limits. Practice deep breathing to maintain composure. Leave the rigorous pace of life for the peace of the couch. Tarot message: Learn to accept responsibility for self and others. Lucky colour: Crimson.

Magic number: 40

CANCER: Your card indicates an emotional setback. Money problems will still prevail. Legal suits turn in your favour. Remember, history has a tendency to repeat itself unless you learn from it. Tarot message: Your determination to succeed will pay dividends. Lucky colour: Orange.

Magic number: 61.

LEO: At work, a colleague steers you in a new direction. Financial rewards may get delayed. Love stars are behind the clouds. A small celebration at home is likely. Professionals need a break.

Tarot message: Work could pose certain minor difficulties but don’t worry. Lucky colour: Peach.

Magic number: 26.

VIRGO: Get cracking early. What you need now is energy. You must push yourself harder. Be careful with money. This is not the right day for writing official letters. Women shoppers may spend heavily. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid delays that come your way. Lucky colour: Mauve.

Magic number: 47.

LIBRA: Your card reveals inner strength and enthusiasm. Arguments may arise with your spouse. Make the most of relationships. You will be supported well by everyone around you. Tarot message: Don’t forsake a new learning opportunity because of pride. Lucky colour: Rainbow pastels. Magic number: 65

SCORPIO: Your card promises a progressive day. Health problems can be satisfactorily attended to. Personal plans are likely to progress without too much opposition. Be above board when dealing with employment affairs. Tarot message: Lay emphasis on spiritual needs. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 50

SAGITTARIUS: Business is likely between you and your associates. Long term benefits can be expected. Attempt to improve your health will be successful. Your mind can wander on the job and cause unnecessary mistakes. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 62.

CAPRICORN: Entrepreneurs will go through an anxious period. The married or those in love will find the day exciting. A lot of energy will be expended on communication today. Tarot message: Do not divest assets and do not transact in uncertain matters.

Lucky colour: Aqua blue.

Magic number: 45

AQUARIUS: The temptation to help out a friend with a financial loan should be discussed with your partner first. A sexual relationship might have reached its climax. Tarot message: Be articulate to prevent people from drawing their own conclusions.

Lucky colour: Yellow

Magic number: 32

PISCES: Do not allow yourself to be talked into an erratic move. Avoid eating out. Working towards your goals may seem a little harder. Take a few deep breaths then start doing the work. Tarot message: Don’t be dismissive of advice from a young associate.

Lucky colour: Sea green.

Magic number: 52





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