Designs on the self
Designing for others can be easy, but do the tables turn when designers make something for themselves? We find out more.
Vasudha Gupta

Mini Sondhi
Mini Sondhi

The work profile of a designer revolves around dressing up the world and making everyone look their best. The trims, the hemlines, the frills and the colour combinations end up taking days to bring one outfit to life. We look at the flip side and ask designers how the dynamics of designing changes when they end up making something for themselves.

Having excessive ideas sometimes damages the creative sensibilities of designers. Working on scores of fabrics, embroideries, the information overload plays havoc. For Shweta Ahluwalia, designer of the Indian Suit Factory, it was more about dealing with the harrowing time she had when she designed her wedding outfit. “I planned for one week before I knew the placement of what all I wanted in it,” she smiles. The only thing perhaps she was certain of was the colours. “It just had to be in the palette of maroon, mustard and green,” she says. Busy in mixing and matching, she kept her favourite designs in mind.

Reynu Taandon (left)
Reynu Taandon (left)

Having just wrapped up her brothers’ weddings she has been on her toes. “Whenever a designer ends up designing for herself or for the family, the expectations and the pressure tends to increase,” she says. And of course, everyone expects more uniqueness from the garments,” she quickly chips in.

Contrary to these thoughts is Delhi-based designer Reynu Taandon. Apart from showcasing her collection at the recent Dubai Fashion Week, she is a regular designer for the Nizams and Begums of Hyderabad. Despite hectic work schedules, she always manages to find something from her store for herself. “When you are in the middle of the fashion scene, there is no time to sit and design for yourself,” she says. It is expected that a busy designer would be constantly running around fulfilling orders. “My client list is just growing, I am having a tough time filling in those orders; whatever I like I pick up,” she says. The last time she designed something for herself was when she had absolutely no outfit in the colour. “It was a close family friend’s function and the theme was jogiya orange. Since I have never designed with this colour, I created a suit with orange gota patti on the border and an orange duppata as well as accessories to match with the theme,” she laughs. If given the opportunity, she has her mind set on who she will dress up for a special ceremony. “It just has to be Giorgio Armani, he is par excellence,” she says.

Nods Ritu Pande, a Bengaluru-based designer, “It is simply impossible to match up orders, forget designing for oneself,” she says. Having a clear idea of what suits her body type; she ends up always picking and choosing something from her past collections or the more recent ones. “Most of the designers in my league tend to have a Western and an Indian collection. As soon as those wrap up, the international fashion weeks begin, which take up all the time in the world,” she says.


Ritu Pande(extreme left)

Facing paucity of time, she knows it is only Rohit Bal who suits her taste in styling “He is just outstanding. Or for that matter, even Tarun Tahiliani,” she chips. Chandigarh-based Bhavneet Kaur from BK Designs treats designing for the self as homecoming. “You know what’s going on in the market, have an idea about the costs and are aware of the latest concepts,” she says. Treating it like a fun opportunity, she loves the process of designing for herself. “For me it’s a lot of mental satisfaction,” she says. Her latest? “Jodhpuri pants and a formal shirt,” she adds.

Mini Sondhi, designer with Bling, says, “I can be very experimental with my clothing and love to add the spunk to my clothes,” she says. At several points, designers are forced to make the changes they don’t wish. “Designing for the self will give you the freedom to take creativity to another level,” she adds.

Getting a taste of your own medicine?

vasudha@tribunemail.com

success mantra
Go with your instinct
Jasmine Singh

Take the first step and then keep moving no matter what; there is no guarantee or sure-shot formula for success. Follow your heart and instincts; give in your best, don’t be scared of challenges, say yes to healthy competition and rest let time decide. Well, it worked for Akash Garg, director Kava, a successful businessman who never gives in to the word ‘impossible’. He shares his success mantras.

Believe in what you do

I believe that one should dream and then chase it with dedication. When I thought of creating a place like Kava in Chandigarh, which already had many good restaurants, I wasn’t skeptical. I knew I wanted a place that looked different from the existing ones and offered the best services. Kava was a dream and I worked dedicatedly towards materialising it.

Don’t let anyone say you can’t

I was watching Pursuit of Happiness one day and I heard this beautiful dialogue that happens between Will Smith and his son. Will Smith tells his son, ‘Don’t let anyone tell you can’t do this thing. Not even me.’ I buy every word of it. This is not a mantra to be successful, but yes, it definitely gives you confidence and doubles your will power. I had a successful venture behind me, but when I shared my plans with my father and family, I was sure about what I wanted to do. I was open to suggestions, but I did not have anyone telling me you can’t do this.

Think big in life

I have been born and brought up in Chandigarh and seen the hotel industry grow. I was still young when I used to accompany my father to Timber Trail. He used to send me to buy vegetables in the morning. So, I had a fair idea of how the industry operates. Nevertheless, with Kava, I wanted to meet international standards. We brought in foreign chefs, digital music system; and the concept of lounge, discotheque and dinning together. I think a person should travel a lot; this helps in opening the horizons of the mind. So think big.

Learning is continuous

I still think I have a lot to learn. I attend various meetings and seminars on hotel, hospitality and wellness industry whenever it is possible. I read a lot on the Internet; read books related to the same, interact with people in the same field as well as other fields. Interacting with my staff is something I always do, as I know nobody can succeed without a team. When I interact with my staff, I understand their take on various things and value their opinions.

Say yes to competition

I am grateful to my father for all my learning. I feel healthy competition is a must if you intend to take your venture forward. Risks, ups and downs are part of any business venture and life in general. But it is competition that makes me realise where I actually stand and what I need to better my enterprise. I acknowledge what others in this line are doing and try my best to improve all the time.

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Child’s play
City-based Mohita Indrayan designed creations for a children’s brand, which was showcased at India’s first Kids’ Fashion Show
Ashima Batish

Mohita Indrayan
DRESS CIRCLE: Mohita Indrayan

There is prêt line, couture ensembles, collections only for men; resort-wear shows, regional fashion weeks. And then the fragmented fashion got divided further, this time for tweens. Among the slew of fashion weeks and shows that happened across India a week was dedicated to kids fashion at Mumbai, with the obvious nomenclature of Kids Fashion Week. The serious business saw a collection by ace designer Rocky S and several major brands.

Contribution was also made from Chandigarh in the form of 612 Ivy League. “You can’t underestimate fashion sensibilities of children, especially when they are exposed to fashion through TV and Bollywood,” comes from Mohita, Chandigarh-based designer, who with her team designed the entire collection of 612 Ivy League that was showcased at the Kids’ Fashion Week.

The brand was launched in 2009 and now has over 120 stores across India. It introduces 300 designs every season for children aged between six to twelve. “The idea was to introduce a line that would complement the age of children. The immediate inspiration to dress up well comes from college-going students and you can’t let children dress up like that.” The collection thus comprises very chic jumpsuits, shorts and gowns for girls and woven shirts that create an illusion for boys.

While it will promote the right kind of fashion in children, Mohita adds that the attempt is also to discourage vanity. “The collection is not overpriced. We didn’t want children to brag about the high cost of the clothes, as is the case with most of the upmarket brands.” Also the collection focuses more on casual wear, something that’s not the premise of leading designers. “In fact, with children clothing, nothing is as important as comfortable clothing. We didn’t want them to stop playing or get bogged down by fashion.”

TREND SETTER
Fashion’s own

Everyone wants to look fashionable but only a few can coordinate and bring forth a truly stylish persona which makes the individual stand out in the crowd. Such fashionable ones become icons, setting up a trend for others to follow. Freelance fashion designer Isha Gupta shares her thoughts on fashion…

Your sense of style

Isha Gupta
STYLE CHECK: Isha Gupta

For me an ‘out of the box’ and stylish person is one who can carry whatever she wears with aplomb and coordinate her attire confidently, matching it to the need of the occasion.

Latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories…

My winter boots from Zara.

Brand crazy or street pick-ups?

Brands for winter woollies and for the summer casuals I do like to pick funky ones from the street.

Your style icon would be…

Sonam Kapoor for she is always experimenting with her looks.

Who do you think is the worst-dressed celebrity?

Can’t think of anyone.

Which look would your prefer — sporty, chic or glamorous?

Chic it is.

One fashion trend that is beyond your comprehension?

Why are the fashionable dresses worn on the ramp usually not wearable?

Your take on accessories?

I am not much of an accessory person. Just a classy hand bag and watch will do.

What gives you a high on the confidence level?

When my ideas as a designer are accepted, I feel extremely confident.

If given the chance you would like to be dressed by

Tarun Tahlani and Rohit Bal are my icons for designer wear.  

— As told to Poonam Bindra

Celeb point
No repetition please!
Divya Dutta

The problem about being a celebrity is that more often than not you cannot repeat the outfits you wear to a public event. The result is that I have been given an ultimatum at home. Clear your closets. Well just literally!

My maid tells me ‘what didi you wear such expensive, lovely outfits only once or twice.’ How do I tell her this is my professional requirement? If I repeat, it will be in the newspapers that Divya wore the same outfit again! Fashion faux pas!

A lot of my colleagues take outfits from their designer friends for the event and return it, but I have never done that. Nothing wrong with it, bas jo apna hai, wo apna hai! Well the result —more clothes coming in, and not being worn enough. However, the events they are worn to go by well. Sometimes by super-comments and sometimes a bit of criticism!

Of late, I love the adulation I get for wearing a sari. The result of voting on Twitter said that people like three women in sari, Rekha, Vidya Balan and me of course. I loved it! The result was a few more saris added to my wardrobe! And my mother just looked more irritated.

I was getting ready for some award event. It’s the awards’ season and I have been nominated in quite a few for Stanley Ka Dabba. So, how you dress up really matters! And as a picture of grace, I wore a sari, a sexy one. I got loads of compliments but then I got bored. I wanted to look different.

So for my next event, I chose a short mini-skirt with a jacket and paraded in front of my mother as always before finalising what to wear. She is so used to seeing me in saris that she said — what is this? But I was adamant that I would wear that only. I was nervous whether it would be accepted. As I entered the event, I was thronged by photographers. I was looking different. Huh! I met one of the heroes and he said — ‘oh my god I have never seen you like this.’ My heart beat stopped. But he added — you look super hot! And then the next guy said —oh my god you look like a school girl, what are you doing to yourself ? By the time I left the party I was super-confident. This was my new look. I broke the news at home and told my mother that I want to buy some super chic hot skirts. The expression was, well yes, till another defiant mood, till another set of compliments!

And the most helpless in the corner was this closet that belongs to me, which I felt was telling me - spare me!

(Dutta is a Bollywood actor)

Master Chef
Spicy treat
Sheel Nanda

The humble potato is a veggie that fits in everywhere and if it was in grammar it would be called a "common noun"! Rather even a person who is adaptable to all circumstances is likened to a potato! Yet, when we dress up the potato with herbs or just bring out its taste with minimal cooking by itself, it sure does become a tasty dish. Potatoes, in all forms, are enjoyed by children and elders alike and dieticians will tell you that if cooked properly they are the friendliest carb. Here is a recipe which is sure going to add a 'zing' to your meal.

Spicy potatoes

Ingredients
n 4 boiled potatoes
n 10 table spoon tomato sauce
n 5 table spoon sugar
n 10 table spoon vinegar
n 4 tea spoon cornflour
n 1 1/2 cup water or stock
n 1 boiled carrot finely cut
n 4 green chillies, finely cut
n 1/2 tea spoon aj-n-omotto
n 1/2 tea spoon salt
n 2 table spoon finely cut ginger
n 6 finely cut chopped garlic flakes
n 1 table spoon finely cut coriander leaves
n A pinch of tomato colour
n 1/2 tea spoon chilly flakes (optional)
n 1 or 2 tea spoon white pepper

Peel and cut the potatoes into big pieces and shallow fry them. Put all the above ingredients in a pan. And go on stirring until little thick.

Add the potatoes and coriander leaves. Serve hot.

(Nanda is a Ludhiana based cookery expert)

As told to Poonam Bindra

star track
Single, ready to mingle
Shahid Kapoor feels that the institution of marriage brings in a lot of confidence and stability in one’s life

Shahid Kapoor
Marry me: Shahid Kapoor

It’s the wedding season in Bollywood and actor Shahid Kapoor, who has made himself “available” for marriage, feels that the institution brings in a lot of confidence and a sense of stability.

In Bollywood, married actors like Shahrukh Khan, Aamir Khan, Akshay Kumar, Ajay Devgn, Hrithik Roshan and others have done well at the box office, giving tough competition to singletons like Shahid, Ranbir Kapoor, Ranveer Singh. On married actors being successful in Bollywood, Shahid says, “I agree that most of our superstars in the industry are married...are successful. But again it (being successful) is not so much related to whether you are married or not. It takes certain amount of time to establish yourself as an actor. Usually to reach there you need the support of somebody who loves you, takes care of you. And so you end up getting married and settling down. It (marriage) gives you a lot of confidence and certain sense of stability. So I think it is beautiful if your partner is with you on your journey of life... if you have somebody to share your success with, it is great,” he said.

Shahid also said he is available for tying the knot. “I am available and koi bhi achi ladki chahe toh...(If any of the good girls want)... I am available. I don’t have any reservations for marriage,” he said.

The 30-year-old was dating Kareena Kapoor when they started filming for Ken Ghosh’s 2004 film Fida. They were going steady until they separated during the making of Jab We Met in 2007. Since then, he has been linked with Vidya Balan, Priyanka Chopra, Deepika Padukone, Anushka Sharma and Bipasha Basu. But he has never admitted to dating any of these beauties. — PTI Sushmita Sen

Ramp scorcher

Recently Sushmita Sen was spotted walking the ramp for Nishika Lulla, at the India Kids Fashion Week along with her two daughters.  While flaunting her colourful outfit, she lost balance and nearly had a fall on the runway! Could this be the “downfall” of Miss Universe? We think not; but it definitely makes for great visuals. She remains graceful as ever.

See saw: Sushmita Sen

Ekta Kapoor Clash of the titles

Ekta Kapoor and Yash Chopra are both making classic period love stories this year. Ekta’s film stars Sonakshi Sinha and Ranveer Singh and she wants that film to release before the YRF film, anyhow!


Ekta Kapoor

Error uploading

Vishal Dadlani and Shekhar Ravjiani composed Chhamak Challo sung by Akon but Vishal is being nominated in the singing category at award shows! Silly mistakes!

Back to classics

Sonam Kapoor is a big fan of Waheeda Rehman. She would love to play her character Rosie from Guide. She loves the charm and subtlety of old movies and actors.

Booked and hooked!
Many actors like to read. They aren’t as busy as they seem! We tell you who is reading what and their favourite books

Sonam Kapoor
Classic Bite:
Sonam Kapoor

Language and literature

Sonam Kapoor: She loves classic English literature, especially novels by Jane Austen. She loves books by Louise Hay and has recently read The Life of Pi by Yann Martel. She has always been a bookworm.

Busy with the girls

Hrithik RoshanHrithik Roshan: He was lapping up the Millennium trilogy by Stieg Larsson. The trilogy revolving around Mikael Blomkvist and Lisbeth Salander comprises The Girl with The Dragon Tattoo, The Girl Who Played with Fire, and The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet’s Nest. The movies are being released in India now.

Bookish charm: Hrithik Roshan

Thrill and chills

Katrina Kaif
Twilight fan:
Katrina Kaif

Saif Ali KhanSaif Ali Khan: The book he spoke about was Israel is Real by Rich Cohen. It is all about the controversial Jewish nation. He loves spy novels.

Spy struck: Saif Ali Khan

Patriotic streak

Farhan Akhtar: He highly recommends Nelson Mandela’s A Long Walk To Freedom to people who have not read it yet.

The vamp within

Katrina Kaif: She loves the Twilight series because she is very romantic at heart. We have heard she read the Twilight series (of four books) in less than a week.

Clearing the air...
The Christian Secular Forum has objections against AR Rahman’s latest song Hosanna

A still from Ek Deewana Tha
Part and parcel: A still from Ek Deewana Tha

AR Rahman has made news with his latest compositions in the film Ek Deewana Tha. However, excess of anything can spell doom, and the same is the case with the track Hosanna which has been making waves in the music world.

The music track is popular and it seems to grow in popularity with each passing day. The Christian Secular Forum (CSF) in Mumbai has objected to the use of the word Hosanna. They claim the word to be a sacred term used only within prayer songs among Christians and Jews.

Fox STAR Studios’ spokesperson says, “We are very proud to once again associate with A. R. Rahman and Javed Sahab for the music score and lyrics of our film Ekk Deewanna Tha which releases on February 17. The Tamil and Telegu versions of the film (which too were directed by Gautham Menon) were released in 2010 in which the same song, which is currently in the news, Hossana, was used.

“We, Rahman, Gautham Menon, Javed Sahab and all involved in the film are therefore extremely surprised to have heard from Joseph Dias of the CSF on their views now, on our song.”

Rahman said, “As with any film project I work on, I had spent several months researching before composing/writing all the songs for Ekk Dewaana Tha and had consulted friends who are Christian in particular about the use of the word Hosanna in this song. The song was a sensation when it was released in the South a couple of years ago and it went on to win all possible music awards and was well received by all communities! Therefore I am deeply concerned about the sentiments of all those who appear to be hurt by this song.” Javed Sahab said “When we write lyrics with great composers such as Mr. Rahman, who is one of the most respectable human beings I have had the pleasure of working with, the intention is never to insult any religion, why would we?” — HRM

Golshifteh Farahani goes nude; gets banned!

Not long ago, Pakistani starlet Veena Malik caused outrage when she posed nude with an ISI tattoo on her arm for the Indian edition of FHM magazine. Close on the heels of that uproar in her conservative Muslim home country, a Paris-based Iranian actress Golshifteh Farahani, has allegedly been banned from returning to her homeland after posing nude for a French magazine. A publication from Britain has reported that Iranian government officials have informed the 29-year-old Golshifteh that she is no longer welcome in Iran after posing naked for Madame Le Figaro magazine, an act perceived to be anti-Islam.

Golshifteh said that the Iranian government has sent a communication telling her not to travel back to her homeland. “I was told by a Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guide official that Iran does not need any actors or artists. You may offer your artistic services somewhere else”, Farahani said.

“The idea that a woman can demand her freedom of expression through a shock of nudity is not new to the world, but continues to spark the ire of both conservatives and liberals alike. Terming it anti-Islam, blasphemy or issuing fatwas could be far from the solution,” says Bollywood PR guru Dale Bhagwagar, who has also been credited for Veena Malik’s entry into the Indian entertainment.

I want to direct full time: Angelina Jolie

Angelina Hollywood superstar Angelina Jolie says she would like to give up acting and go behind the camera full time. The 36-year-old, who made her directorial debut with the movie In the Land of Blood and Honey, said she would do films only if the role is strong enough, reported a publication. “I still love acting — if I can find those roles that matter. But if I don’t, it’s nice to be able to shine the spotlight on another actress you think is extremely talented and give her the spotlight,” Jolie said. — PTI


Behind the lens:
Angelina

Spice girl

Mugdha Godse loves spicy food. She loves eating healthy yet spicy and yummy items. She loves pickle, dal with garlic, roasted chicken, salad, and brown rice.

Platter full: Mugdha Godse

chatter box
Bruised & safe

Karan Tacker and Krystle D’Souza While shooting for the honeymoon sequence in Goa for Star Plus’ Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hain, actors Karan Tacker and Krystle D’ Souza fell off their bike when it skid. Karan was injured on his palms and later stopped him from enjoying water sports. Krystle was bruised but thankfully the duo is safe.


Retired hurt: Karan Tacker and Krystle D’Souza

Comic dose

The popular English comedy channel -Comedy Central launched in India as part of Viacom 18 Media Pvt Ltd's sixth offering. The channel will be dedicated to several English award-winning comedy shows like The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, South Park, Saturday Night Live, 30 Rock, The Office, Seinfeld, The Wonder Years, That 70s Show and much more.

Vansh to die again

Nandish
out of the bag: Nandish

The return of Vansh (Rohit Khurana) in Colors' Uttaran was needed to boost the trps which it did for a while but couldn’t sustain. Nevertheless this track had to end but it is ending sooner than later.

Nandish aka Veer reveals, “The high point and exit of Vansh aka Rocky will be shown in a dramatic fashion when he will try to rape Ichcha (Tina Dutta) and Jogi thakur will save her pushing Rocky who will fall down the stairs and die. Later, Veer will learn that it was his mother who had planned the whole plot. He will be furious with her.” It was assumed that Rohit’s re entry into the show will help the show immensely but as the audiences’ interest waned soon after his entry and the makers had to work towards ending the track. Rocky’s track will culminate by the end of this month.

Another year wiser

Ankita Lokhande and Sushant Singh Rajput Handsome and talented actor Sushant Singh Rajput celebrated his birthday happily with girlfriend Ankita Lokhande recently. Post quitting Balaji’s Pavitra Rishta, Ankita and Sushant look for reasons to spend time together and for his birthday, Ankita planned a surprise party to make the day special. Sushant earlier had done the same for her. She gifted him an iPad 2 and an iPhone 4S.
Birthday celebrations: Ankita Lokhande and Sushant Singh Rajput

A step forward

Sachin Shroff
Climbing the ladder: Sachin Shroff

Handsome television actor and Big Boss-5 winner Juhi Parmar’s husband Sachin Shroff is no stranger to TV viewers. Already playing an important character in Balika Vadhu, the actor has replaced Allan Kapoor in the much-appreciated emotional drama Niyati. Sachin became popular with pivotal roles in Har Ghar Kuch Kehta Hai, Naagin, Sindoor Tere Naam Ka, Naam Gum Jayega, Shagun, Vishwas, Grahisti, Sangam and Balika Vadhu. The handsome actor talks about his role Amber and the show.

Describe your role in Niyati?

I play Amber. The character has grey shades also. The role is of a younger boy, so I am reducing my weight also. With daily shows, viewers can expect something different from me.

What is Niyati all about?

It is an emotional story with the message that a daughter can also take up the responsibility of a son. The story is similar to the lives of people. What is shown in this show is reality.

Was the role of Amber a consideration with the Creative Eye Team?

The production house contacted me for the lead role. I liked the emotional story of Niyati. I got this offer because of the success that my role in Balika Vadhu gave me.

How is it being directed by the talented Vijay K Saini?

Well, it is enriching to work with him because of the emotional touch that he lends to the story. The way he has handled the script will make you feel that he is very talented. He has a good team of technicians.

Any memorable moments on the sets of Niyati?

I have become friends with several people on the sets. A still from Balika Vadhu Every moment associated with this emotional drama has been memorable.

Twist in the tale

In Color’s Balika Vadhu, Anandi has to decide between her tausa Vasant, taiji and the wronged villager. Being a Sarpanch, she does justice and orders Vasant to pay the villager his due and not let his personal problems affect the relationship. Vasant will then decide to quit the haveli and the brothers will do a batwara of the house.

A still from Balika Vadhu

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Take proper care of your diet. Love life will be exciting. Financial matters may come under strain. Singles could be on the lookout for a partner. Combine business and pleasure for profit and fun. Tarot message: Do what is right and watch your best interests. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 56.

TAURUS: Make good use of the quiet morning, and you will be well prepared for the rest of the day. Express your feelings and put your talents to good use. Travellers may head for an unusual destination. Tarot message: Delays are the only obstacle in your way to success. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 38

GEMINI: The card “Six of Wands” will give you extra rewards. A female coworker could be jealous. Rather than reacting to her jibes, be sensitive and you may make a good friend. Tarot message: Empty promises are certain, therefore try to put your terms and conditions in writing. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 40

CANCER: Your card the “judgement” gives you strength. Communication over legal matters, and education can be postponed and cause stress. Desires may lead to an exploration. Tarot message: Empty promises are certain, therefore try to put your terms and conditions in writing. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 33

LEO: Today you will have difficulty in getting along with associates. Work and professional responsibilities will place demands on your time. Those in authority may play a particular part in your day. Tarot message: Use careful judgment in handling issues involving property. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 44

VIRGO: You might be able to do yourself a bit of good with the help of influential people. Property dealers: you may find a tough encounter. Stay at home and relax with your lover tonight. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid the in-built delays that come your way. Lucky colour: Beige. Magic number: 59

LIBRA: Today you are likely to spend money on astrology or philosophical books. Agreement made today can be very valuable to you. Personal partnerships are blessed today. Watch your budget when shopping. Tarot message: You find within yourself a fountainhead of willpower. Lucky colour: Teal. Magic number: 63

SCORPIO: The day starts with smiles and cheers. Friends are pleasant but not significant. A romantic overture might give you plenty to think about while you go through your emotions. Your self-esteem will grow. Tarot message: Take responsibility for your own action. Lucky colour: Blue. Magic number: 26

SAGITTARIUS: Meeting new people will bring delightful opportunity for romance and minor flirtation. The energy of the day is suited to creative pursuits and having fun with your loved ones. Tarot message: You shall prevent a lot of trouble by taking timely action. Lucky colour: Violet. Magic number: 54

CAPRICORN: The married will enjoy a pleasantly romantic phase at home. Social life, political activity will bring recognition. The accent will be on business partnerships. Professional advice will be invaluable in this area. Tarot message: Don’t reveal your plans to your competitors. Lucky colour: Rust. Magic number: 40

AQUARIUS: Don’t rush to make any hasty decisions regarding family. Postpone plans for intimacy with your lover as there are likely to be far too many interruptions to make it worthwhile. Instead, get out and socialise. Tarot message: Don’t try to end the entire deadlock at one go. Lucky colour: Grey. Magic number: 33

PISCES: Dispute over small issue is possible at your working place. Beware of hitch, delays and postponement. Mixed trends will prevail through out the day. Friends will be easygoing and willing to fall in with your plans. Tarot message: You gain by being practical; don’t be emotional. Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 48

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is January 25...

Share a warm dinner with your sweetheart on your special day today. It doesn't have to be anything fancy; as long as the two of you can relax, even the simplest meal will be an enjoyable one. It will be a busy 2012. Your inbox is full and your schedule is jam packed with meetings from the beginning till the end. You'll thrive on activity, but don't plan to finish the projects you started last year. Since you're as fickle as the wind, it won't be hard to convince you to change your mind and changing your mind is exactly what you're going to do.

Desires for change seem too over-powering and you will sound certain people to get fresh offers for job or business. You may even receive better offers, but are advised not to change your job in haste. You will see your business multiply like magic. Make the most of this wave of positivism to aspire to other aims and start up new profitable collaborations. Act in a timely way to avoid problems. Your knowledge and good sense will help you move ahead. Relationships will become stronger. Try to do something special for your partner. Make sure you continue to love and respect your spouse, as they will play a singificant role in your trying times.

You will maintain cordial atmosphere at domestic front. You will receive whole-hearted support from your partner. In career, you'll however gain some reputation. For some Aquarians there will be a big change of profession. As soon as you finish your study, you are faced with a new life, which means career, responsibility and struggle. Your health is fully dependent on whether you follow the general health tips or not. Your hard work requires stamina and good health. Keep up your exercise schedule and take preventive medicines for controlling your chronic ailments.

Mood: Growing stressed as we near February and then improved. Compatible signs: Aquarius, Pisces, Gemini. Lucky colours: Pale blue and mauve. Lucky days: Monday. Lucky numbers: 4, 12, 16, 24, 40. Lucky gem: Aquamarine - Gemstone of Love. Lucky flower: Floss Flower.

Kavita Subramaniam née Kavita Krishnamurthy (born Sharada Krishnamurthy, January25, 1958, New Delhi) has lent her voice to several Indian actresses and has also sung some very popular Hindi film songs. Her first major hit, Tumse Milkar Na Jaane Kyon, Hawa Hawaii and Karte Hain Hum Pyaar Mr India Se, proved a turning point for her. A Love Story won her a lot of popular acclaim. Mercury, which signifies Vaani (voice) in astrological jargon, is the strongest planet among her stars. It will bestow the best in her singing career.





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