Being different
Beautiful actor Neeru Bajwa says she is looking forward to her upcoming movie Pata Nahi Rabb Kehdeyan Rangan Ch Raazi
Jasmine Singh

It’s different…if the words movies and actors interest you, then you know what is the one line that runs through the lanes of the movie industry — It’s different. Beautiful and confident actor Neeru Bajwa takes the mike and the lead on the promotion of her upcoming movie, Pata Nahi Rabb Kehdeyan Rangan Ch Raazi, and we hear something o-so-familiar- “I play a different character in this movie,” she smiles. We delve deeper.

In fact coming from Neeru, who is the leading lady in all Punjabi films, we know the probability of difference is high. “I am not the leading lady of every Punjabi movie; rather I am part of every successful Punjabi venture. Maybe you wouldn’t realise that as an actor I try to be different with every movie. I have been here since the beginning and worked really hard to be where I am today. In this movie, my character Simran is simple with lot of shades,” shares Neeru.

Pata Nahi…is a story of dreams and struggle. Directed by Ravinder Peepat, Neeru stars opposite Tarun Khanna.

Back to where it all started — being different. Neeru who selects her role after a lot of scanning believes that an actor is all about versatility. “I pick and choose roles that have substance and look real to people.” However, it is her role in Heer Ranjha that Neeru sees as a distinct challenge. “I wanted to play Heer, at the same time I was skeptical whether I would be able to do justice to it because I was coming from abroad and people assumed that I wouldn’t know much about Heer. Everyday before the shooting, I would pray to god to help me. I am happy that I could portray the role,” she says. And the ‘being different’ continues as Neeru moves on to do a Hindi Film Bhaiya Ji Superhit with Sunny Deol and yet another Punjabi movie Jat and Juliet.

And this definitely doesn’t stop here. Neeru is touched by the response that she receives from the girls in Punjab. “They look up to me; I don’t think there are many role models in Punjab. If only I could change one life here I would feel touched,” adds Neeru wanting just a little something more from films. “We have many defined roles for men in the industry; I wish we could something especially for actresses as well. I would like to do a role that the girls can relate to, something like a go-getter for girls. But no sob story.” A hopeful and confident smile - it’s different!

jasmine@tribunemail.com

When drama meets fashion
Theatre-person Neelam Mansingh Chowdhry has a new feather in her cap. Fresh from a collaborative effort with ace fashion designer Ritu Kumar that held audiences in Delhi in a thrall she talks about the making of the show, which was both an experiment and great fun
Nonika Singh

Celebrated theatre-person Neelam Mansingh Chowdhry can’t stop smiling. No she is not ready with her new play; nor has the acclaimed theatre director won another award. She has other reasons to beam, as she is being lauded for her collaborative effort with none other than ace fashion designer Ritu Kumar. Recovering from the overwhelming response to the show Panchvastra at Delhi’s luxury hotel Aman, she shares what made her say yes to a fashion show, what made it work and how oodles of creativity went into what was advertised as drama, music and fashion.

Says Neelam, “Ritu is an Amritsar girl whom I have known all my life and when she said — let’s do a project together — thought why not.” Ready to experiment, the lady who has over the decades reinvented the idiom of Punjabi theatre set about with her reading of Ritu’s remarkable ensemble. Since the designer wanted a performance based on Mahabharta’s women characters, white fitted well with Ganga, red with Draupadi, saffron with Amba, rich colours with Kunti and indigo/black with Gandhari. Thinking of epic characters and linking it with each colour was easier, conceiving the dramatic imagery to go with it required ingenious thinking. And not only Neelam even her actors wore their thinking caps and thus flowed images of Ganga playing with water, of Kunti giving birth, of making of five Pandavas and the peacock dance.

While her own actors Ramanjit, Gick Grewal, Vansh Bhardwaj held the drama together, directing eminent personalities like classical dancer Anita Ratnam, actors Kirron Kher and Seema Biswas, was both challenging and stimulating Adds Neelam, “Roping them in was not so difficult for they already understand movements that models can’t quite fathom.” However, since the glamour queens Dia Mirza and Sushmita Sen arrived just on time, Neelam could not quite improvise their parts. Even otherwise isn’t glamour of fashion and seriousness of theatre akin to two twains that shall never meet. “Not in today’s world,” argues Neelam, “when lines are fusing between different kinds of art, between high and low art. If Peter Brooks thought theatre must have the high and the low, the serious and the comic, intellect and entertainment, risqué and profane, where can one draw a dividing line between different art forms.” More so she feels that we are living in times when visual artists are moving into performance art, when Vivan Sundaram designs a fashion show the silos that we have created must be knocked away.

So do we expect her to say aye aye to yet another fashion show? Well, two months ago she did say no to JJ Vallaya who wanted her to create a Moroccan baazar for a high profile wedding. Any regrets? Well, since her tryst with fashion also led to an encounter with top class luxury that included a two-day stay at seven-star hotel Aman where rooms not only had a view but also an exclusive independent swimming pool,” she laughs, “perhaps, I might be tempted to do another one.” But at the same time she chides herself. “Better not before I get used to this cushy life, I would rather stick to theatre.” Either way, it will not be the viewer’s loss!

nonika@tribunemail.com

Musical beat

Neelam Mansingh Chowdhry got plaudits not just for her conception of the dramatic narrative that would gel with a fashion show, but more significantly for the music that she directed. “Necessity is the mother of invention. After the demise of BV Karnath, who had given music to my plays for over two decades, I didn’t not know how to cope.” But as she realised she had a wealth of musicians, as she understood they knew how to play traditional instruments the unconventional way, she found her way. Music that served as an adhesive holding the show, including the ramp walk, together, enthralled the audiences so much that soon there was a demand for its album.

Truly musical
Talented artistes don’t die, they live on, says singer Jaspinder Narula citing the case of Mirza Ghalib
Mona

They are two diversely different people on the same platform — different backgrounds as well as continents. His jewellery sparkles more than hers and it’s when they both declare in unison ‘we are learning still’ that we take our eyes off the huge studs in his ears as well the tattoo half visible on the neck and pay more attention!

Zee brings Jaspinder Narula and Juggy D together to judge a brand new show Sa Ra Ga Ma Pa Punjabi. In Chandigarh on Wednesday to announce as well as for the audition for the show, the two get talking.

Although in Punjabi, this show tests the contestants in as many as ten genres. Jaspinder explains, “Punjab and Bengal are two states that have naturally talented singers. With this platform, we want to take talent from here to an international platform.”

What worries Jaspinder though is that singers from the region are not attuned to Bollywood and beyond. “That’s where the challenge lies — to hone and groom the contestants and help them achieve success!”

Not everyone is as fortunate as this singer, who got a supportive family and a musical ambience to grow up in. “I also had this interest in music. I started with shabads and moved on to know more — Bengali and classical Carnatic music,” says Jaspinder, who has not only sung in Indian regional languages but lately surprised an Arabic singer, as she sung in Arabic!

Another challenge that she has, as a judge and mentor, is to help the contestants let go their strong Punjabi accent. “Sadly, many Punjabi singers are in Bollywood but they seldom get a chance to sing in a genre other than theirs. It is high time we change that.”

Rooted that she is, Jaspinder is presently looking forward to singing gurbani with Symphony orchestra. “No one represents Punjab like they do,” says the singer with a visible pride in her tone.

(The auditions are today at Yellow Stone, Landmark Infocity, Sector-66, Chandigarh)

mona@tribunemail.com

India calling

Juggy D, the British-Indian singer with cross-cultural appeal, has relocated temporarily to India and not only for Sa Ra Ga Ma Pa Punjabi. Looking for new, hip artistes from the region, Juggy has flown along with two contestants from the UK (there are two from the US as well). “It’s been an amazing experience so far at the auditions,” says the singer, who is Bollywood-bound for that’s what he really enjoys.

Re-run to re-ignite
Why people watch movies multiple times

Many people tend to re-read books, watch movies several times or visit places again and again, as they find that repeating experiences “reignites” their emotions, according to a new study. Through in-depth interviews with participants in the United States and New Zealand, the authors found an array of underlying reasons for re-consumption.

“Even though people are already familiar with the stories or the places, re-consuming brings new or renewed appreciation of both the object of consumption and their self,” authors Cristel Antonia Russell (American University) and Sidney J. Levy (University of Arizona and Northwestern University) wrote.

“By doing it again, people get more out of it.” Generally, people do it to enrich their emotional lives and increase self-knowledge.

“The re-experience allows them not only to refresh their memory of the past experience, but the recollection is accompanied by the discovery of new details. Therefore, the experience is different, even though it is repeated,” the authors explain.

Previous research has focused on the kinds of repeat experiences that are habitual, addictive, or ritualistic, not experiences that people actively and consciously choose to repeat.

In their study, the authors found a variety of motivations for re-consumption. Some participants desired to return to a former state and wanted to affirm—or sometimes invalidate—the impression left by previous experiences.

Others wanted to refresh or reconstruct the memory, and some wanted to share the experience with new people.

Although some participants worried they would be considered odd for repeating consumption, many reported that repeat experiences led to heightened awareness and pleasure. “Given the immense benefits for growth and self-reflexivity, re-consuming actually appears to offer many mental health benefits,” the authors wrote.

“People should not hesitate to go back and re-read or re-view what they have already done. A once-in-a-lifetime experience can easily appeal to people again,” the authors added. The study has been published in the Journal of Consumer Research. —ANI

All is well with Sumona

Sumona Chakravarti aka Natasha Kapoor of Bade Achhe Laggte Hai is all smiles as has got a meaty role and lot of recognition.

Your character Natasha has turned negative again. Why?

My character of Natasha hasn’t changed over all. She was always selfish and someone who got her way. Post marriage, she mellowed a bit trying to fit in and adjust, which was tough. Then during pregnancy she became soft. Now that she is no longer pregnant, she is all rebellious and feeling let down by her current situations so is lashing out at her in-laws.

How has the experience been on the show?

I am enjoying the show which has become such a huge hit. The show, the characters all have become popular and I am glad my work is being noticed.

We heard you got corrective surgery to fix your teeth.

Yes I went in to fix my canines and got a perfect set of teeth for the perfect smile. It was needed and I am happy with the results.

Who from the show Bade Achche has commented on your smile?

My friends, family but no one from the show has commented yet as they probably didn’t notice. But I am waiting to hear their comments.

How do you handle when they poke fun at you in Comedy Circus?

It is all in jest. My partner Kapil makes jokes about my height, soaps, acting but I can laugh at myself so there are no issues.

What keeps you going in comedy?

We get to play different characters and though it is difficult to shoot two episodes back to back but it is also a break from the regular serials. We all want variation in life and this is the way I get it. I love my work.

Director’s hat for Bebo?
Kareena Kapoor might just be seen behind the lens for a Karan Johar film

Kareena Kapoor has impressed Karan Johar with her skills behind the scenes. He might give her a movie to direct. As a wedding gift to her, Karan will give her a movie to direct after she gets married to Saif Ali Khan.

Kareena’s involvement with behind-the-scenes work began with Agent Vinod, produced by beau Saif. She showed interest in the script, mixing, sound, dialogues, music, camera work, and many other departments. By the time she started working on Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu, she was quite a professional behind-the-scenes. Producer Karan Johar was impressed with her aptitude for cinema and has agreed to give her a movie to direct next year or whenever she has the time.

A source says, “Kareena and Karan are super close. They are like soul siblings and have all the love and respect for each other. They even chastise each other. Kareena suggested many changes in the script in Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu and they were all incorporated in the movie. She felt that some of her scenes were similar to Geet in Jab We Met and suggested changes to make them a little different. Karan feels she should assist formally on any movie she likes and then she should try her hand at direction. Kareena was planning to launch a production house a couple of years ago but she has been immensely busy with films so didn’t get around to doing that.” It will be interesting to see a movie directed by the gorgeous Bebo!

HRM

Fast and furious

Many incidents happen during fight sequences. Sometimes, they even leave the actors hurt. The latest incident took place on the sets of David Dhawan’s film Chashme Baddor where co-star Ayaz Khan happened to hurt Ali Zafar during a fighting sequence.

The entire incident happened so rapidly that it took time to sink in. Despite the fact that the injury was not deliberate, Ayaz apologised for what had happened. “I was honestly disappointed about what happened, but mishaps often take place during a fight sequence. However, I am glad that Ali is recovering fast from the injury,” he said.

—HRM

Aamir kicks off the butt!
Good move: Aamir Khan
Good move: Aamir Khan

Shah Rukh Khan cannot quit smoking, Hrithik Roshan has given it up successfully, Ranbir and Shahid light up from time-to-time, Salman does it too. Aamir Khan has quit smoking since a year and he talks about staying off the habit.

Need of the hour

I used to smoke two packets during the post-production activities and just before the release of my film. I would get intensely nervous and needed to do that! So I would light up. I would give up smoking otherwise.

Family support

My children, Junaid and Ira hated my smoking habit and criticised me for it. Even my mom and Kiran didn’t want me to smoke and asked me to quit. Then on January 1, 2011, I decided to quit and I did! It has been over a year and I have been clean and off cigarettes. I owe a lot to these four people. I don’t have any cravings either. People can smoke in front of me and it is not a problem for me. My will power has strengthened over time. I am doing post-production for Talaash and I am not smoking. I couldn’t afford to smoke because I had to shoot for some intense scenes and also preparing for Dhoom 3 which needs me to be in excellent shape. So I really want to tell people that you can be perfectly happy and relaxed without cigarettes. Choose life! We all can do it!

Mark of respect

Pop diva Mariah Carey pulled out of a US TV interview on Valentine's Day to grieve the loss of her friend Whitney Houston.

The Hero hit maker was due to appear to discuss her role as a spokesperson for diet firm Jenny Craig and chat about losing weight after giving birth to twins, a website reported.

"Mariah is still mourning the death of her friend and collaborator Whitney Houston and thought it was too soon to appear on TV to discuss anything else," said her representative. Carey, 41, who duetted with Houston on 1998 tune When You Believe, posted a tribute to the late singer on her Twitter page on Sunday. "Heartbroken and in tears over the shocking death of my friend,” she posted.

Being famous

Actress Angelina Jolie says she still struggles with the glitzy side of being a movie star. The Lara Croft: Tomb Raider beauty, who will be walking the red carpet again at this month's Oscars, says she's no more comfortable with the big night than she was the first time she attended, a publication online reported.

"Every now and then I get a dress on and I walk a red carpet but it's kind of that funny thing you do. It's a party you go to occasionally but it's not who you really are. It's all just part of the job. I have a real view of the real world and I am very happy in the real world. Waking up in the morning and knowing your children are healthy and happy is all that matters," she said.

— PTI

Forty-fied
Jennifer Aniston
unexciting thirties: Jennifer Aniston

Friends star Jennifer Aniston did not enjoy her thirties. The 43-year-old actress, who divorced ex-husband Brad Pitt in 2005 when she was 31, said reaching her forties is a "great" experience but her thirties blew, an online publication reported.

"Forty's great! Oh my God, my thirties blew! Forties are great," she said. Aniston, who has been dating actor Justin Theroux since May 2011, also joked the public are so fascinated with the idea of her becoming a mother that she feels like she is having feuding "alien babies". "I'm still trying really hard to be friends with the idea.” —PTI

Once upon a time

Actor Ryan Reynolds says he was once kicked out of school after unintentionally breaking the law with an April Fool's Day prank. The Green Lantern star didn't realise the silly revenge stunt he pulled on a teacher and would get him suspended from high school, a publication reported. "I was a bit of a pariah at school.

I have three older brothers, all of whom were kicked out of this very same school, so from the moment I got there, I was a marked man. I was kicked out for something I think you'd appreciate. I was kicked out for stealing a car. But wait - I didn't actually steal a vehicle! "A teacher that we had, who was just 100 per cent awful, he had this little car. It was one of those little Volkswagens. So my friends and I just played a little April Fool's prank on him - we picked it up, we lifted it up and carried it down the block," he said.

— PTI

I drank myself to death: Gerard Butler
The actor talks about his drinking binges and how he gave up alcohol and is today a complete teetotaller

No drinking: Gerard Butler 300 star Gerard Butler says how he drank heavily and had "a death wish". The 42-year-old Scottish actor, who came close to being killed by alcohol, said he is now a teetotaller, a publication reported.

"I had gone from a 16-year-old who couldn't wait to grasp life to a 22-year-old who didn't care if he died in his sleep. Now it's as if I never had a drink in my life. I don't miss it," he said. —PTI
                                                                    No drinking: Gerard Butler

the ‘in’ side
Kitchen dressing
Sukhmani

Kitchens are one of the most common home remodelling projects. So which window treatment is best for kitchens? This depends a lot on—

  • The placement of the window- if it’s close to the sink or the cooking range.
  • What is the general decor style of the kitchen?
  • How much sunlight and privacy do you require?

Once you have your answers, you can choose any one of the following options for your kitchen.

Cafe curtains: As the name suggests, they are mostly used in cafes and cover the lower half of the window. Cafe curtains allow you to have your privacy yet at the same time let in a lot of sunlight. Depending on the style of your kitchen, you can use sheer material, lace or cotton with lots of ribbons and lace to create a pretty look. These can be hung on decorative rods or curtain wires.

Kitchen blinds: Blinds are an ideal option for kitchens. Roller blinds are perfect for kitchens, the fabric isn’t too heavy and there is such a wide choice of fabrics in the market. Venetian blinds are practical and stylish and above all can be easily wiped clean if they get splashed from the sink or the cooking.

Pleated window shades: These are good to use as they let in enough natural light and at the same time provide you the much needed privacy. These too come in various colours and patterns to suit most kitchen decors.

Roman shades: Roman shades add a touch of elegance and class to any room. Although they look great, they are not highly recommended for Indian kitchens where there are strong odours and smoke. If you have a large kitchen and if your window is away from the sink or the stove, then you can consider this as an option. Make sure you choose a material that’s easy to clean and won’t get damaged due to high temperatures and moisture.

(Sukhmani is a Chandigarh-based interior and landscape designer)

TROUBLE SHOOTER
Find joy in small things
Simmi Waraich

I am going through mood swings. At times I see a poor woman on the road and I feel like crying. I am divorced and live alone. I have a good job. Sometimes I wonder if I have a mood disorder or is it just being alone? I have good friends but none I can talk to about things. I am 39 years old.

R Kumar, Chandigarh

Are the mood swings of recent onset or have they been there for a long time? Were you moody as a child too? Sometimes experiences in life such as a divorce and other incidents like the death of loved ones can trigger off depression which may become chronic. A person functions normally that is goes to work, does a good job, manages things at home but an underlying emptiness maybe there. A lack of interest in things one enjoyed may also be there. It could indicate a low grade depression which is nevertheless very distressing. Also it can contribute to relationship problems such as a mistrust of new relationships etc. Working through old wounds is important. Just as a physical wound is troublesome if it persists, so is a psychological scar. Women often talk about it to others and get over it. Perhaps you need to use talk therapy with a good psychiatrist or clinical psychologist. For a start, today, you can focus on what is going well—like a good day at work, a good long walk or workout at the gym, a nice evening with friends or just a smile at a child on the road. An act of kindness to someone can go a long way. So remind yourself to take it one step at a time and focus on the moment. The drive when you go to work, the music. It is little things that matter. The future will happen anyway, just remind yourself daily to live today. 

I have a 9-year-old son. We had a child after many years. My husband is busy and does not participate much in child rearing. My son is very intelligent and doing well in sports and studies. However, a teacher reported that he was behaving inappropriately towards younger boys in the bathroom. I am very worried.

K Khanna, Chandigarh

At times children may experiment while growing up even at this age. You said he is an intelligent child— it would help to sit and talk to him frankly and ask what happened. Explain how touching other children of either sex is not acceptable. Explain that if someone does that with him too he should report it to you. It would help to have a joint meeting with a doctor where the issues can be discussed without using strong words or blame. One may need to rule out if something like that happened to him as well when he was younger. I have seen some children who have had this problem but when the parents deal with it calmly and discuss it such incidents are minimised in the future.

(Dr Waraich is a Chandigarh-based consultant psychiatrist. Shoot your problems to lifestyletribune@gmail.com or write to Troubleshooter, Life+Style, The Tribune, Sector 29, Chandigarh)

Eternal happiness
Jasmine Singh

There are only a few things that take a woman’s mind off for a while, jewellery is one such thing. Art Karat, a jewellery label known for silver jewellery and exceptional kundan craftsmanship, brings its latest collection Eternal by Asha to Chandigarh. So for a while now all you ladies can take your mind of other things and concentrate on latest designs and patterns.

On display at Hotel Moutview are necklaces, long earrings, bracelets, bajubandhs, tikas, rings and pins. Priced between Rs 5,000 and Rs 15,0000 more than 700 designs have been created for this collection. But if gold is something that you call real jewellery, well, then Art Karat has made that affordable as well. In addition to this, the designs displayed have been showcased in many Bollywood movies Devdas, Monsoon Wedding, Kamasutra and Zubeida.

Designer jewellery is a popular concept and Art Karat has ensured that the latest and current designs to suit every occasion is given to the woman of today. Asha Kamal Modi and Saket Modi, the designers behind Art Karat, have drawn inspiration from the Indian heritage and various traditions and cultures of India. Craftsmanship is something that the designer brand believes in, and so every piece is a story of craftsmen working and bringing out the beauty of the intricate pieces.

At-TUNED to reality
DJ Sheizwood shares excerpts from his journey in the world of music as well as Bollywood
Vasudha Gupta

There are probably only a handful of people who have to think twice before telling their name. “No one really calls me by my official name—Ashish. I have always been DJ Sheizwood,” he says. Coming from a humble family in Haridwar, for DJ Sheizwood, the journey to cutting his seventy-eighth album has rather been an interesting one. In Chandigarh to release Vodka Shot, along with item girl Kashish Khan, the DJ spills the beans about his kind of music.

Starting from remixing Mere piya gaye Rangoon, there was really no stopping the DJ once he had Rakhi Sawant swaying to his tunes. “My life has been more of a musical journey,” the DJ shares with us. It was after building a name that Sheizwood came in contact with Anupam Kher for his movie Nakshatra. “Initially, I was to only do a remix, but once my music was heard, Anupam asked to me remix one of my own song,” he says.

It was then that the DJ knew that the Indian film industry was his calling. “I started doing some great work. Today I am doing music for two big banner films,” he smiles. His next, Supermodel stars Koena Mitra, bombshell Veena Malik, Tanushree Dutta along with Ashmit Patel. “The other is a movie based on the love story of the three Khans of Bollywood. “The music is ready, we are just waiting for the banner to make the official announcement,” he adds. Now that his dreams in Bollywood approach reality, his piece of advice to regional talent is pure and simple. “I get calls from scores of artists, who just want to debut in the industry. As long as you work well, producers will approach you,” he says.

Known for his performances on House music across Eastern Europe, DJ Sheizwood has also recently had Mallika Sherawat grove to his remixes. “Bollywood is all about glamour. I won’t say that the music industry is well established there,” he quips. Of course, if Salman Khan dances to a shoddy song, it will still be a hit while good lyrics will struggle for recognition. “If you look around, most of music today in Bollywood is being created by Pakistani singers. Producers are constantly on the Internet. It’s important to make a good impression,” he suggests.

Commenting on piracy, the major issue plaguing the music industry, DJ Sheizwood misses the sales figures. Once considered vital in the growth of an artist, selling music is totally passé. “Nothing sells. Internet has robbed music of it charm,” he shares with us. The current generation has had a major role to play in this. “Yes, there was time when meaningful lyrics would help. Today as English music is fast gaining popularity, we, as DJs, need to stick to the demands,” he says. Aware that songs with deeper meaning might not work, DJ Sheizwood plays safe with what attracts the youth. “It sad but the scope of sitting and understanding music has died,” he says. Hoping for good music to retain its sanctity, DJ Sheizwood believes that great listeners will remain, as will good music.

vasudha@tribunemail.com

Solo affair
SD Sharma
Rustam Baidwan and Yajur Brar
On a song: Rustam Baidwan and Yajur Brar

Already riding high on the success of Punjabi hit songs like Teri Bewafai, Left me Broken, Syaahi, Sohniye, Dhiyan and more on YouTube, singer Yajur Brar has come out with his latest solo song video Kitney Duniyan Ton Duur. The album was released by comedy king Bhagwant Mann.

The song, written by young poet Rustam Baidwan, depicts the modern day love affairs that end as fast as they bloom due lack of commitment. “We thought the Valentine’s Day would be most appropriate for its release,” says Yajur Brar, a 4th year student of BE-MBA at UIET, Punjab University. A national-level boxer and gold medalist at the Chandigarh State Boxing Championship-2007, he has also participated in National Wushu championships, Techfest- 2011 in Mumbai and brought laurels to PU.

“There is no dearth of talent among the youngsters, but unfortunately it is not explored at the right time. Also, budding as well as established singers fall prey to piracy and exploitation by music companies,” says comedy king Bhagwant Mann.

Star Track

Sonam’s health mantra

Sonam Kapoor promotes healthy eating. She advised someone to stop having aerated drinks because of caffeine and carbon dioxide content. Well, in that case, coffee and chocolates should also be avoided for their caffeine content. Do cut your aerated drinks down to lose weight!

Hot-air zone

More and more people are getting annoyed with domestic airlines. Abhishek Bachchan is no longer going to fly a certain domestic airline brand because they didn’t recently allow him entry on a flight even though he had a boarding pass.

Sweet pain

Shahid Kapoor is experiencing pain because of long periods of dancing. His back is sore, neck is jammed, and hamstring is tight. He loves dancing and we hope he gets well soon! He is loving the weather in Mumbai though.

Like father, like son

Amitabh Bachchan is the brand ambassador for Gujarat Tourism and Abhishek Bachchan is the ambassador for Madhya Pradesh tourism! What about UP tourism, their home state?

As crazy as it gets

Would you believe that a female fan actually bit John Abraham’s hand at an event in Mangalore? The actor is shocked and refuses to shake hands with anyone (fans) now.

Chatter box

Love birds: Shaleen Bhanot & Daljeet Surprise Surprise!

Shaleen Bhanot who will now be seen in Star Plus’ Sajda Tere Pyaar Mein surprised his wife Daljeet on the sets of her show Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon. On Valentine’s Day, he surprised her with a brand new car, she wanted to buy since a while. He decorated the car, got it on her sets and told everyone on the sets not to tell her. When she came out and saw it she was ecstatic.




Love birds: Shaleen Bhanot & Daljeet

Happy to patch-up

No problems: Ankita Sharma Ankita Sharma aka Preeto of Imagine TV’s Sawaare Sabke Sapne had spilt with her boyfriend but now she is back with him. She has patched up with him and her life is rosy again. Guess this ends the rumours of her dating Aditya Redij to end.

No problems: Ankita Sharma

The chapter’s closed

Zee’s ambitious historical Shobha Somnath Ki will soon end.  The show which began with lot of hype never really took off as the other show Jhansi Ki Rani.

New entry

Hollywood movies channel Sony Pix launched a contest, Big Break. In this, contestants will shoot a video enacting his/her favourite scene from an English film. After selecting ten applicants, they will be flown to Mumbai for the contest.

Popular face: Harshad Chopra Back in action

After Imagine TV’s Dharampatni ended, Harshad Chopra now will be seen in a new show. He will play the parallel lead in Life OK’s Saubhagyavati Bhava. His role will
be of Jhanvi’s saviour (Sriti Jha). Harshad is quite popular on TV and watching him fight with Viraj (Karanvir Bohra) will add to the TRPs.

Popular face: Harshad Chopra

Shifting loyalty

Switch over: Madhuri DixitIn a shocking development, Colors channel has bagged the rights to showcase the Indian version of Dancing With The Stars - Jhalak Dikhla Jaa. The show was being aired on rival channel Sony Entertainment for four seasons. They have signed dancing diva Madhuri Dixit as judge.

Switch over: Madhuri Dixit

Clash of viewpoints

In Sony’s Kuch Toh Log Kahenge, while Dr. Nidhi expected a romantic Valentine’s Day celebration, her emotions were hurt when Dr. Ashutosh said he doesn’t celebrate it. Dr Mallika is taking advantage of their relationship problems and is driving a wedge between them. In the upcoming episodes, Dr. Ashutosh will realize his folly and try to make it up.

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Your card favours good progress in your profession and business. Be wary of a situation where you might make a mistake in haste. Distant affairs will become more favourable as the day progress. Tarot message: Do not let anyone get the advantage over you. Lucky colour: Bottle green. Magic number: 25

TAURUS: You card reveals a romantic interest. If you have a lover, this is the day to treat him to a generous gift. Fortune can smile on you from the least expected sources. Health problem can be satisfactorily treated. Tarot message: Don’t be too certain about getting a clearance. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 38

GEMINI: An unexpected bonus could appear in your paycheck. Buy the right outfit for your sports or exercise program. Dress for success to make a great impression on employers. Tarot message: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 29.

CANCER: Household task can be done in record time. Speculation would be most unwise. No problem should arise in romance. You will feel great with your renewed energy. Tarot message: Capitalise on your strength and do not trust others. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 60

LEO: You will be popular with both the sexes today. Boring routine jobs can be made more bearable through teamwork. Level of stress may be building if you face unpaid bills. You may be feeling vulnerable to the criticism of friends. Tarot message: Focus on the better to mitigate the bitter. Lucky colour: Black.Magic number: 59

VIRGO: Many of you will frantically try to complete all the tasks. Make extra efforts to conclude pending projects. Secrecy of plans will help you at place of work. Property deals favoured till 3 p.m. Do not aim for spectacular results. Tarot message: Impatience will lead to failure. Lucky colour: Cream. Magic number: 54

LIBRA: Caring conversations and heart-to-heart talks flow easily. Health problem can be successfully handled. This is a good day for both buying and selling property. Stick to what you know. Be wary of over-confidence. Tarot message: Unfinished business will unleash new problems. Lucky colour: Grey. Magic number: 39

SCORPIO: Senior bureaucrats should focus on secret files and documents. Married will enjoy the evening in a different way. Do not carry heavy cash. Feeling fit will add to your confidence in your abilities. Tarot message: You need to cultivate understanding and humility. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 63

SAGITTARIUS: Differences of opinion within the family could reach a boiling point. A stubborn response on your part won’t help. Bright day for intellectuals and astrologers. Tarot message: If you are tempted to travel overseas don’t waste money by financing the trip yourself. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 27

CAPRICORN: If you are not okay about a relationship take some action. The employed will have to work overtime. An important meeting or travel may have to be shelved. Keep low profile. Just enjoy yourself. Tarot message: Dare to accomplish tasks which take up a lot of time. Lucky colour: Camel. Magic number: 40

AQUARIUS: Check newspaper and internet guides for what is on in your area. Family life is charged with tension. Financially, the first half of the day is rather expensive. A health crisis might strike. Tarot message: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far. Lucky colour: Mauve. Magic number: 49

PISCES: Those who are more spiritually inclined or who want to stay calm are likely in search of solitude. Love life is passing through a rough phase. The married will buy a piece of jewellery for their spouse. Tarot message: Be positive and think carefully before taking action. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 42

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is February 16...

You spend a lot of time focusing on your partner. Today, focus on yourself. Do what makes you feel good. A little pampering will make you feel special. Your partner has been lavishing you with lots of attention. Promise your partner on this special day to give him all the importance. 2012 can be better; you just need to make some efforts. On a day like today, you should find that your energy is better spent on something new and promising, so pick a plan and go for it.

Your own advancement may be priority, but it’s crucial to see it in the larger context as March begins. How can your work benefit others? And what about your personal life? Rethink now and get started in June. Getting others on board has rarely been easier. Expect a great deal of personal satisfaction, success and reward in September. Your enthusiasm and determination will be the key. Those born after 1990 will be satisfied with the way their career is going although they will have to face yet another difficult time. Your social skills are at a high level. The atmosphere at home could be harmonious provided you set aside your ego and be more flexible and give up the rigid attitude. You are sure to win respect and goodwill of the family. If you’ve any plans, you need to implement it as quickly as you can. Success is on the way. Your intuitions and forecast in the financial situation will prove accurate and you may profit from it. Opportunity should be availed to take up in matters regarding payment for insurance, loans, license fees etc. as delay may cause some problems. Saving, serving or even rescuing a relative  is likely especially Virgo or Gemini. Loaning out items and giving guidance about saving is better than giving away cash.

Health issues of elderly ones will make you worried. Those of you, who had been suffering from general weakness and headaches, will find relief in February itself. You’re in the mood for experimentation, and run from stale and obligatory bonds. Relationships that serve a purpose, while also being exciting is what you’re looking for.

Mood: A bit annoyed. Compatible Signs: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn. Lucky Colors: Blanched Almond, Black

Lucky days: Friday.

Lucky numbers: 8, 14, 24, 48, 88

Lucky gem: Black pearl.

Lucky flower: Sweet Sultan

Suggestion on birthday: Donate books/stationery/ yellow cloth.

Shoma Anand, (February 16, 1958, Mumbai) has been active in Bollywood films since 1976. She was the heroine in Jagir and Coolie in the 80s. From the late 1990s to present, she has played minor and supporting roles as a doctor, sister or wife, in films like Hungama, Kyaa Kool Hai Hum and Kal Ho Naa Ho. She also was a star in the hugely successful sitcom Hum Paanch and Shararat. She plays different roles in various serials now. Her stars indicate long association with the small screen.





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