The beauty of the beast
It has beauty, class and of course, power! Little wonder Jaguar, the hi-end car, has become the topic of conversation in the social circuits
Jasmine Singh

The conversation at a terrace party screeches to a halt, all eyes turn to the car that hits the driveway. “And Good Heaven, he drives a sexy looking Jaguar XF,” comments a pretty woman. For obvious reasons, the car and its enigmatic look becomes the topic of conversation. Someone probably rightly scribbled on a blog— “Money may not buy happiness, but I would rather cry in a Jaguar than on a bus!” You could laugh your heart out or probably also stop and think, what makes Jaguar ‘the car’ and make people dream of having one parked outside their homes!

Dream machine

Rohit Kapoor, managing director Ace Healthways, Kuber India Group from Ludhiana, likes cars and wanted to be sure that he picks up the best of the lot. “A friend of mine came in his Jaguar from Delhi to meet me. I drove the car, and I knew it from that very moment that I wanted this machine,” he says, showing his car which is a real head turner.

“I like the attention that the car brings, it feels nice to know that I own a car which is rare and a dream machine,” he smiles. Apart from the looks, Rohit likes his Jaguar’s power-packed performance. Smooth gear change suit his style of driving. Adaptive cruise control is another feature that Rohit likes in his champagne grey Jaguar.

Smooth ride

Those who drive a Jaguar feel no other machine is as smooth as this one. Paramjit Singh, a Chandigarh-based industrialist, finds his black Jaguar XFS, a wholesome machine. “It is better than many hi-end models available in the market. Its features are stylish and technologically advanced at the same time,” he says immediately moving to talking about slim headlights and posh interiors that makes driving an experience.”

Complete package

Cars define attitude and style, and those who like both don’t mind shelling something ‘extra’ for it. Rishi Dada, managing director Dada Motors, the only dealership in Punjab for Jaguar, believes that the machine is a rare blend of art, performance, science and beauty with great attention to design detail and craftsmanship. Dada Motors which is 50 years in the auto service industry follow customer service industry. “The sales of Jaguars have shot up from the year 2011. We have rolled out more than 150 cars in Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh across the region.”

The fan following for the machine is shooting up. As for Ajay Malhotra, head of sales and services, Dada Motors, Jaguar comes with style and power-packed features. “Look at the new XF, it offers the option of combining a front parking aid, designed to alert the driver to objects ahead of the car and a rear camera parking aid, which displays video from a rear-facing digital camera on the touch-screen.”

From the rear view
Price: Jaguar XF Diesel- Rs 52 lakh ex showroom and Jaguar XJ Rs 92 Lakh Colours available: It comes in more 15 digitally designed colours—Azurite blue, caviar, cashmere and so on
Price: Jaguar XF Diesel- Rs 52 lakh ex showroom and Jaguar XJ Rs 92 Lakh Colours available: It comes in more 15 digitally designed colours—Azurite blue, caviar, cashmere and so on.

Wishful thinking, well, sometimes works wonders. Test driving a Jaguar XF fits the bill here. The white sexy machine entices, but also intimidates. Machines are known to have a mind of their own. And this one sure has, along with various other features. Seats in soft grain leather, auxillary power socket, auto climate control and yes smart key system with keyless entry and start. Easy, smooth, Jaguar is already on the move. It slides through the traffic, but then it starts asking for more—yes the machine is power and this is what it wants. 100 kmph, 120 …it still wants more. Huff, puff and a slightly more acceleration, I hit 160 kmph. The machine seems happier. I want to enjoy the speed, so I set up the cruise control and forget all about it. Put on some nice music, Jaguar offers a full colour touch screen with controls for audio, climate and Bluetooth connectivity. Drive carefully, remember a machine can always put you to test.

Kulwant Singh Gill Photo: Pradeep TewariMake way

Kulwant Singh Gill, a Chandigarh-based businessman, owns a Jaguar XF rating it as the best car ever.

“When it moves, others make way for it. I have been driving it for a while; I find it good for Indian roads.”

Kulwant Singh Gill Photo: Pradeep Tewari

Tale of three cities
Aditi Rao Hydari and Ali Zafar are busy promoting their upcoming flick London, Paris, New York. While Aditi relates the best to London, Ali is all for New York
Mona

Aditi Rao Hydari and Ali Zafar, the lead pair of London, Paris, New York is on a roll. Film promotions are as hectic as their 29-day-movie schedule. The duo shares their take… “The shooting was frantic but fun. To be in three happening cities around the world, what more one can ask for?” says Aditi. This Bharatnayam dancer, who made brief appearances in Delhi-6, Yeh Saali Zindagi and Rockstar and won appreciation, explains, “For me, it takes the conviction and not the length of the role to say yes to a film.”

However, she considers herself lucky to have landed a lead role. “In playing a supporting role you get to enact only a part of a character, while a lead role gives you the liberty to give a wholesome performance,” she says. Playing Lalitha Krishnan in LPNY gave her one such chance. “In a way I quite relate to the character I play. Lalitha is a girl lost in her own world, who studies politics and aims to change the world. I am also lost in my world, a little different than Lalitha’s though.”

The story of three nights unfolds in three different cities, of which, Lalitha relates to London the most. “The city is the right mix of tradition and modernity, something that I am like in real life,” says Aditi, who not only enjoyed playing the leading lady but also singing a song for the flick!

mona@tribunemail.com

Good shot

Well, it’s difficult to bracket Ali Zafar in a single frame. He made a stir by playing Ali Hassan in Tere Bin Laden. In London, Paris, New York, not only does he play the protagonist Nikhil but also sings and composes music for the film. What was more challenging? “I would call the experience ‘great’. Be it composing music or acting, each has fun side to it that I explored fully well in LPKY.” Out of the three cities, it’s New York that Ali connects to the best. “It’s the buzz about the city that’s most exhilarating.” Is there a pressure to meet the level of expectations? “There is. I have given my best shot. Rest depends on how audience reacts to it,” quips Ali.

No more reality shows: Pooja

Pooja Misrra grabbed attention for her weird getup and fights on the fifth season of controversial reality show Bigg Boss, but the media mileage notwithstanding, the VJ says she would not be part of any such shows in future.

“Thank you so much, no more reality shows for me after Bigg Boss. I am not really interested in doing reality shows again,” Pooja said backstage after walking for designer Chandrani Siingh Fllora on the second day of ongoing Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week (WIFW). She was sporting a red sari with sequence work on the border.

Pooja walked as a showstopper for Fllora, whose collection sought inspiration from clarity and hues of gemstone sapphire. The designer used heavy satin, georgette and silk in hues of blue and red with floral geometric embroidery. The collection included jackets, dresses and saris.

Pooja, a model and VJ, was infamous for her loud and aggressive behaviour on the show and was, in fact, asked to leave the show. Later, she returned to Bigg Boss 5 as Australian cricketer Andrew Symonds’ interpreter. It was her second chance to salvage her image, but she ended up getting into fights again.

Ever since she has come out of the house, she has been flooded with offers from the small screen.She has also signed a film. — IANS

Dia, Sameera cheer for Shantanu-Nikhil

Actresses Dia Mirza and Sameera Reddy designer duo Shantanu and Nikhil’s muses, graced their show on the first day of the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week (WIFW) on Wednesday, kick-starting the five-day fashion extravangza with a touch of glamour.

While Dia looked pretty in a black jumpsuit with pleats on the waistline, Sameera looked bright in a pink-coloured one-shoulder gown.

Though the ladies initially took seat on the front row, they were pulled on to the ramp by the designers as they took the final bow.

“It was complete surprise when Shantanu and Nikhil pulled us to the stage. We were not prepared to walk the ramp, but we enjoyed it. It was fun and refreshing to see our designers presenting such a beautiful assortment of clothes,” said Dia.

The designers’ collection was a part of their label “S & N” and was an ode to vivacious and chic women. The fabrics were mostly satin, chiffons and velvets with lot of emphasis given to embellishments and textures. The clothes included short dresses, sari-inspired gowns and rompers.

“It was a fall/winter collection which was meant for all those women who want to look simple yet glamourous. We make clothes for those who understand fashion like Dia and Sameera. People today are looking for ready-to-wear clothes and our collection personifies that,” Shantanu told reporters post the show.

Jackets have always played an important role in Shantanu and Nikhil’s collections, and they used these well this time too. From beige, purple, green, red to black and white, the collection was simple yet elegant. — IANS

Knock it to know it
Now, there is an information website to know your city better
Sabia Talwar

A young mind with an interesting entrepreneurial venture, based on a completely fresh concept, is what introduces Akash Aggarwal and Prayas Chanchawat, who have launched their complete information portal www.knocknknow.com recently in Chandigarh.

They both have come up with an e-commerce company that gives out information about the service sector.

The website is already operational and covers Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurgaon, Faridabad, Pune, Jaipur, Hyderabad, Secunderabad and now Chandigarh.

So, where did the idea come from? “When I was doing my masters in International Business from the Leeds University, UK, I used similar kind of portals for those two years, which were quite user-friendly and affordable. On the contrary, when I came back to India there were none which were giving complete information. That’s how I came across the idea,” says Akash Aggarwal, CEO, knocknknow.com

Akash wanted to give something to his hometown and its residents and what could be better than this one?

So this is how you go about it—enter the website, land on the home page and there are three parts to it. The first one deals with searches according to the city, location or cuisine. The second part tells you about the recommended restaurants and lounges, and, the last but not the least tells you about the latest hot deals.

All of the above is free but if you want to avail an offer you have to pay a nominal amount of Rs 20 or Rs 30. “But if you become a premium member with us which is by paying Rs 100, you become a lifetime member and will be able to avail offers for free,” adds Prayas.

The site has begun with its very first module which is food and nightlife and rest of them like hotels, doctors, lawyers, consultants, local vendors and business houses will fall in line soon.

Reviews and ratings are given by the public and their experiences with the places. Go ahead know about your city and knock on the right deals.

sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com

Unmasking emotions
Romeo-Juliet and Bulle Shah? The combination may sound a little odd, but theatre artiste Sukhmani has found a way to blend both in her upcoming play Romeo, Juliet and Seven Clowns
Vasudha Gupta

Watching Romeo and Juliet seamlessly merge together with Bulle Shah can be one worthwhile experience. The theme, which has a common stronghold in the East and the West, is love. Sukhmani Kohli from Purple Mangoes, who is collaborating and directing Ceva Repertory, puts her thoughts together on the body of work in the play.

What started as a small workshop on clowning with the assistance of theatre experts from Lebanon and South America, has today taken the shape of an interesting concept.

“The workshop was only for three days, but the kind of interest it evoked has been surprising,” says Sukhmani. It was after interacting with the students that Sukhmani decided to take it to the next level. Since love knows no boundaries, the students could not think of anything else. “Our version of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is very different. It has a lot of personal touch,” Sukhmani says. The story also has the seven clowns. Explaining the concept, she says, “Clowns in theatre generally represent the bare emotions. It is the unmasked self of actor.”

Acceptance of everything, the way it is and how it is, is the basis of existence for the clowns in the play. “The great thing about theatre is that actors get a lot of freedom to improvise according to their preferences,” Sukhmani says.

The reason why the flamboyant love of Shakespeare finds a strong connect with Bhulle Shah is spirituality. “Love is spiritual in nature as it accepts the unconditional,” Sukhmani says.

Hence, in the hearts of lovers, the poetry of soulful Bulle Shah erupts to life. What about the seven clowns, who bear a deep connection with the seven dwarfs? “Yes, in an after- thought the connection emerged, but the clowns basically show the clown side of Romeo and his lover,” the director says.

The concept of clowning is being widely used not just in theatre but also in education and hospitals. “Since the idea is acceptability, several hospitals use it for healing and it does have amazing results.”

The actors have played an integral role in shaping up the play. The ten “students” are all boys, including Juliet.

“Since they are all distinct, and have their own perceptions of love, the process has been lot of fun and is a reflection of their instincts on love,” Sukhmani wraps up as she rushes backstage.

(The play will be staged today at Tagore Theatre, Chandigarh at 7 pm. The duration of the play is one hour)

vasudha@tribunemail.com

Street flavours
From congee to rojak, now you can savour street food from the South Asian countries in Chandigarh
Mona

Oriental flavour: Chi offers a host of lesser-known delicacies
Oriental flavour: Chi offers a host of lesser-known delicacies

Now you can savour street food from the South Asian countries in Chandigarh. Newly-opened Chi at Sector 7 Chandigarh has a lot to offer. An extensive menu picked up from Malaysia, Thailand, Japan, China and Vietnam, Chi brings the best of street food from the Orient.

Says Sohrab Sitaram, the man behind the concept, “Chi is one fun place to be.” With some 15 restaurants around the country, Sohrab is happy bringing Chi to Chandigarh (it’s the fifth outlet, four are in Delhi already). “It’s an easily replicable concept that got awesome response,” he quips. The menu has special starters, healthy soups, main course with a good variety in both vegetarian and non- vegetarian and a selection of desserts. We vouch for crispy corns, green mile chizza (thin crust pizzas) fresh and flavourful corn soup, chicken coriander dumplings, Phad Thai noodles and jasmine tea!

The menu starts with an interesting glossary that explains the terms that find a mention in it. From Congee (Chinese porridge with rice) to rojak (a fruit salad mix from Indonesia and neighbouring countries), it gives a hint of what to expect. Jigsaw puzzles and interactive table mats can keep the kids busy as you enjoy your meal.

Chi (means positive energy) is a lovely concept, the place is little confined though. “It’s only for 34 covers,” says Suhani Verma, who is happy looking after the presentation of place as her husband Anurag Verma and Sohrab man the kitchen. The attentive, hospitable service and food with a different flavour make this a cozy, little bistro.

Meal for two would cost Rs 800 on an average.

mona@tribunemail.com

TREND SETTER
Simply stylish

Smart choice: Naina Chhabra
Smart choice: Naina Chhabra

We now have a wide exposure to fashion and trends. The influences can come from Bollywood, Hollywood or the ramp. Young girls and boys today incorporate these influences judiciously and they become fashion icons. Winsome final year student Naina Chhabra sure knows her mind when it comes to fashion:

Your sense of style…

I like simplistic style with a touch of elegance. A well-fitted pair of jeans and nice coloured top would be ideal. One should feel confident in whatever one wears.

Latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories…

A navy blue shirt from Forever.

Brand crazy or street pick-ups?

Brands all the way

Your style icon would be…….

Sonam Kapoor. Her dressing style is totally unique.

Who do you think is the worst-dressed celebrity?

Has to be Vidya Balan, of course!

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

Chic!

One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension…..

Big woollen socks with jeans and dhoti pants really irk me.

Your take on accessories?

I don’t like to wear them on regular basis but on occasions yes, I like to coordinate them with my attire.

What gives you a high on the confidence level?

When I am happy and satisfied by the way I look, I feel very confident

If given the chance you would like to be dressed by

Neeta Lulla and Manish Malhotra.

 (As told to Poonam Bindra)

green thumb
Lines of beauty
Satish Narula

In horticulture, we appreciate the trees for foliage and floral beauty and other aspects like its shade. And those who know about the landscape planning also know where to put the plants as per their utilities. There are very few who know about the structural beauty of the plants. But then you need an eye for this.

Using plants to highlight the architectural lines of the buildings is an old practice. For this mostly climbers are used that train as per the building contours and thus do not hide the building lines. Plants are also fitted in the landscape plans to match the building design and direction. The nature, however, expresses itself in the form of strange kind of creations to show its beauty aspect. As no two persons are alike, the different tree species show variation in form and growth and some of them are remarkably beautiful.

As the ageing brings grace, in some of the trees too, the beauty comes with time and growth. See the accompanying picture, the tree is Erythrina crista galli. The tree after the first few years starts seasoning its main trunk that bears woody-corky look with grooves. The bending of the trunk gives this plant an artistic posture. It is a typical example of structural architecture in nature. There is one such tree standing near the fountain in the Zakir Rose Garden in Chandigarh. The beautiful specimen of the tree has become a spot for the photo shoot for visitors. This tree is also known to bear amazing blooms resembling that of an anthurium. The tree is also drought-resistant and not fussy about its cultural requirements. The tree is known by this name and has no common name.

Whereas the Erythrina is known for its trunk and floral beauty, Sterculia alata also known as Buddha’s coconut tree, so called due to its coconut like seed fruit. The tree is very stately and has firm straight growing main trunk that may rise up to 40 feet without any bend. The beauty of the tree also lies in the base of the main trunk that forms excellent buttress on the ground. The main trunk spreads in phalanges like sections that form triangular shape on many vertical columns.

(Narula is a senior horticulturist at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana)

Talking straight...

Playing safe: Saif Ali Khan Saif Ali Khan is willing to talk about his new film, girlfriend Kareena, and not doing romantic comedies now. He isn’t willing to talk about marriage.

Playing safe: Saif Ali Khan

Growing up

I believe I am too old now to play a romantic hero. Agent Vinod is my attempt at becoming macho and mature. Today, action thrillers excite me more than romantic comedies. I know I owe romantic comedies in a big way as they shaped my career and image but now I want to try different avenues.

Reality bytes

In Bollywood, we love our films to be fantasies and we want the typical hero-heroine. We don’t like complicated situations. That isn’t the case in Hollywood films made by or starring Newman and Eastwood which have real characters and complex issues. I think Sriram Raghavan’s Ek Hasina Thi had grit and realism in it.

On Agent Vinod

He is a hero for his country but not in an utterly patriotic kind of way. He is cynical and irreverent. He has the girls, the machines, the escape plans and he travels all over the world and is super suave and cool. Kareena would do a rom-com over Agent Vinod any day but she has done a few action scenes well and she looks gorgeous. She has a mysterious charisma.  Sriram Raghavan will surprise you with his direction and hold over the movie.

Marriage and more

It is impossible for me to do an interview without the marriage plans question. We both are committed but we don’t want to divulge marriage plans at the moment.

Why is Preity Zinta miffed?

Fan following: Preity Zinta She may be picture perfect, but she doesn’t quite like her pictures being shared online. Actress Preity Zinta is miffed with fans who leaked the pictures of her on the sets of Ishkq In Paris.

She tweeted: ‘1 humble request 2 all my fans .. Pls come n see the shoot, take as many photos U want but pls Dont put them on the internet as it leaks the look of the film & affects the movie negatively! When i am off set, i am more than happy to take photos.. As long as U keep them 4 urself ! Otherwise i am very happy to see all you eager beavers on set :-)))) hope it is not too much for me to ask you guys ??? What say you ?’ The leaked pictures have already spread all over the internet.

Fan following: Preity Zinta

Congratulations and celebrations

Success story: Karan Johar Karan Johar is grinning from ear to ear. Agneepath grossed Rs 120 crore in the first two weeks and Karan fulfilled his and his father’s dream of making the cult film financially successful. Then, his different romantic comedy Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu has grossed almost Rs 23 crore in its first weekend.

He is pleased to have talented directors like Shakun Batra and Karan Malhotra who proved themselves in their first film. Karan Johar has launched nine films on the floor this year. There are celebrations galore at Dharma Productions.

Karan is kicked up about launching as many as nine films this year. He says that he is very happy with the way the nine new directors at Dharma have worked. His directorial venture, Student of the Year, is releasing in the monsoons and has an all-new cast: Siddharth Malhotra, Varun Dhawan, and Aalia Bhatt. In the past, Karan Johar has launched Nikhil Advani (Kal Ho Naa Ho), Ayan Mukerji (Wake Up Sid!), Tarun Mansukhani (Dostana), Shakun Batra (Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu), Karan Malhotra (Agneepath), Soham Shah (Kaal), Punit Malhotra (I Hate Luv Storys), and Rensil Dsilva (Kurbaan), and Siddharth Malhotra (We Are Family).

The films that he will launch this year include: a film directed by Ruchi Narain, a film directed by Ayan’s assistant Sonam Nair, a film which is a co-production with Ekta Kapoor, Tarun Mansukhani’s sequel to Dostana, a film with Hrithik Roshan, a film with Shahid Kapoor, Ayaan Mukerji’s romantic comedy Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani with Deepika and Ranbir, and Punit Malhotra’s next film.

Up close & personal

The first look of Housefull 2 was launched recently. We catch the stars doing their own thing at the launch. Take a look at the cast and crew members presenting the film. Shazahn Padamsee is super stylish and looked classy in her colour co-ordinated attire.

We like. She is always dressed like a doll! John Abraham and Akshay Kumar shared a couple of jokes all through the evening. Shazahn did not look happy and Jacqueline Fernandez was caught checking out her turquoise necklace. And what was wrong with Sajid Khan’s hair. It was highly uncool! Looks like he needed to sleep! While Zarine Khan looked highly unserious. Though the entire team of Housefull 2 was excited. The lovely ladies of Housefull 2: Shazahn, Jacqueline, and Zarine. Notice how Jacqueline was covered from head-to-toe even though Zarine and Shazahn were wearing short dresses.

Back on track

Recovery mode: Demi Moore Actress Demi Moore’s daughter Rumer Willis has broken her silence about her mother’s breakdown. The 23-year-old was with Moore when she collapsed at her LA home last month after reportedly inhaling nitrous oxide, better known as laughing gas, reported a publication.

The 49-year-old is rumoured to be seeking professional treatment for “eating disorder and addiction issues” at an undisclosed location. “Of course the situation weighs heavily on me. My mother is on the road to recovery. It’s slow going but we believe in her,” Rumer said.

Along with her sisters Scout, 20, Tallulah, 18, and father Bruce Willis, Rumer encouraged Moore to seek professional help. Rumer has also been a source of comfort and support for Moore following her split from husband Ashton Kutcher. — PTI

I am selfish: Kristen Stewart

Bold & blunt: Kristen Stewart Actress Kristen Stewart, who plays the titular character in new movie Snow White and the Huntsman, insists she is nothing like the fairytale princess. The 21-year-old insists she is too selfish unlike Snow White who is a selfless person, reported a publication.

“I can’t have Snow White’s effect on people. I can’t actually be completely selfless because nobody is. She’s a very fully formed, but very far fetched from the reality that we live in type of person,” Stewart said.

Meanwhile, it’s been claimed that the actress’ quirky, relaxed style has turned her into a pariah, with very few people wanting to work with her. “She has grubby nails, ratty sneakers and bad attitude. Very few people want to work with her because she doesn’t want to look good,” a source said. — PTI

Hooked & booked

Knot again: Lil Wayne Rapper Lil Wayne has got engaged to girl friend Dhea after he popped the question on Valentine’s Day. The Lollipop hit maker, who has been dating waitress Dhea for quite a while, is also expecting his first child with her, reported a website. The couple is expected to wed in the spring and 29-year-old Wayne took to his twitter account to confirm she accepted his proposal.

“She said yes!,” Wayne posted on Twitter.

Wayne has four children from his previous relationships. A daughter named, Reginae who was born when Wayne was just 15, to Antonia Toya Carter, whom he was married to between 2004 and 2006. His other three children are—Dwayne III, whose mother is unknown, Lennox Samuel Ari, born to actress Lauren London, and Neal, with singer Nivea. The singer is busy releasing a memoir based around the transcribed entries from journals he wrote while in jail for eight months on gun possession charges in 2010. — PTI

Boyfriend basics

Singer Kylie Minogue, who is dating Spanish model Andreas Velencoso, values humour and creativity in her boyfriends. The 43-year-old believes looks are important in relationships but they are not enough for long-lasting love, reported a publication.

“You definitely have to be able to laugh. I can’t imagine a relationship where you don’t get each other’s humour. Looks are lovely but I think if you are attracted to someone you find what’s attractive in them anyway.

“In recent times, let’s say I’ve gone for the Latio type. Andreas is Spanish, Olivier (Martinez) was French and I had another director boyfriend (Stephane Sednaoui) who was French. The common denominator is being creative and artistic,” Minogue said.

The All the Lovers hit maker also revealed she and Velencoso bond by playing golf together. “My boyfriend is a keen – read borderline obsessive – golfer so I was roped in. Actually, I liked it, getting fresh air and spending time together,” she added. — PTI

Blooming love

Victoria's Secret model Miranda Kerr is enjoying her marriage to Orlando Bloom and says her husband's spiritual practice is a positive influence on her. Kerr, who married the actor in July 2010 after almost three years of dating, has 12-month-old son Flynn with Bloom, reported a publication online.

"We've grown together, which is important as a couple. He's an honourable man and he has a strong spiritual practise. I think that's influenced me in a positive way," Kerr said. She also praised Flynn and called her a little ball of sunshine. He's a charming, loving boy and very cheeky; he's a little ball of sunshine," she said. — PTI

CHATTER BOX

 Back together

Angad HasijaSara KhanThere is high drama awaiting Zee’sRam Milayi Jodi. After the lead Anukalp died in the show, a grief ridden Mona (Sara Khan) will go into a coma. But there is another twist in store. Sources claim Aditya (Angad Hasija) will marry Mona. Aditya and Mona’s marriage will lead to bigger drama while fans will rejoice the union of the Bidaadi jodi.
Entangled: Angad Hasija and Sara Khan

Nia SharmaIn sickness and health

In Ek Hazaaron Mein on Star Plus, Maanvi’s illness has been kept as a suspense. But in the upcoming episodes the suspense will be out and the two sisters Jeevika (Krystle Dsouza) and Maanvi (Nia Sharma) will be shocked to know the truth that Maanvi has the deadly disease, cancer.

Blushing bride: Neha MardaMarital bliss

Gehna aka Neha Marda from Colors’ Balika Vadhu got married to Patna-based businessman Ayushman Agarwal on February 10, in Kolkata. Having quit the show, Neha prepared for her big day. Now the newly wedded couple has gone to Australia and New Zealand for their honeymoon. Hers was an arranged match.

Blushing bride: Neha Marda

Get well soon: Aman VermaTaken ill

Aman Verma has been keeping unwell thee days. Since his track in Zee TV’s Choti Bahu ended, he has been suffering sinus attacks and has been on high dose of medication ever since. His condition has improved but he is still unwell and feels weak. He has been advised surgery

Get well soon: Aman Verma

Multifaceted actor: Ajit SinghSingh Is King

Dakshjit Singh aka Gaurav from Star Plus’ Maryada is glad his controversial role is over. He didn’t want to drag his track neither or be in a try race. Currently, he is busy with a poetry book and a bilingual novel, inspired from real incidents. He is also working on his first solo album as a lyricist and singer.

Multifaceted actor: Ajit Singh

Ali MerchantComeback time

Ali Merchant who has been missing from TV since a while will be back in Rajan Shahi’s Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai on Star Plus. While it is festive time in Akshara and Natik’s life, Ali’s character Rituraj, will bring trouble in their lives once again. Ali is glad to be seen on the show.

Surviving cyclones

Emotional support: Sangram SinghThe contestants of Survivor India were caught in the cyclone-prone islands of Caramoan, Philippines where they were stuck for three days without food, water and shelter. Deadly cyclone Juaning, which claimed 50 lives, struck the islands of Tayak and Catan, displacing the contestants, leaving them helpless, tired without any solutions in sight. Tayak and Catan islands fell into the red alert zone and the producers were asked to evacuate the islands. The wanes were 10 feet high and washed away half of the island. The entire crew and cast was damaged. The shoot was stalled and they all prayed for the calamity to pass and their safe return home. While the state of the contestants was really bad Payal could not help but huddle up with her beau to get emotional support. She was petrified with the outside conditions and was too cold to move around. Payal said, “It rained heavily for 3 days we were soaked in water and I was scared of falling sick. Seeing the cyclone I also doubted if we will be able to make it back to our normal lives alive.” Sangram further added, “I had never felt so helpless in life as there was nothing we could do from our end to make our conditions any better. This was worse than a jail, at least there is roof over one’s head and a blanket to sleep with, and here we had nothing else.”

NEW RELEASE

Ek Deewana Tha

Gautham Menon, who forayed in Bollywood with Rehnaa Hai Mere Dil Mein, is back with a perfect romantic love story. The film is the remake of his Tamil film Vinnaithaandi Varuvaaya. The story line of the movie was accepted by Tamil and Telugu audience very well. The romance has an old-world charm about it and shows how complex a woman can be. The film has been shot in Kerala and Mumbai.

Ek Deewana Tha is more real and about two persons falling in love for the first time. It is a realistic portrayal of a romantic story stringed together with some beautiful and touching moments. The film marks the debut of Amy Jackson, a British model who was last seen in the Tamil movie Madrasapattinam. Prateik and Amy Jackson play lead roles. The music by AR Rahman is the USP of Ek Deewana Tha which is touted as a pure love story. — Dharam Pal

ASTRO TURF
P Khurrana

ARIES: Consult the experts when cash questions come up. Finalise your plans as early before your mood turns to romance and fantasy. Daydreaming could inspire creative ideas and you might become quite inventive. Tarot message: Use your instinct to get into the top circle of power. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 64

TAURUS: You draw The Emperor so the day promises all comforts. It should be much easier for you to meet your challenges. Stay tuned in to the work at hand and you will be much wiser. Tarot message: Set the unpleasant set of events into motion. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 53

GEMINI: Tension builds and tempers can fray. A desire to retreat to the comfort of your own home could be overwhelming. Leave the rigorous pace of the outside world for the peace of the couch. Tarot message: Must learn to accept responsibility for self and others. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 40

CANCER: The card The Moon indicates an emotional setback. Stick to what you know. Money problem will still prevail. Trouble with a female family member can cause bitterness. Its effect will stay with you for quite some time. Tarot message: Your determination to succeed will pay dividends. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 61

LEO: Love stars are behind the clouds. A small celebration at home is likely. Take some flowers to cheer up the patient and stay long enough for them to relax and share what is on their mind. Tarot message: Yet work could pose certain minor difficulties but don’t worry. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 26

VIRGO: You must push yourself harder. Be careful with money. This is not the right day for writing official letters. An irresistible attraction to someone can override your common sense. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid the in-built delays that come your way. Lucky colour: Mauve. Magic number: 47

LIBRA: Your card The Nine of Cups reveals inner strength and enthusiasm. Arguments may arise with your spouse or partner. Make the most of the relationships, and support that comes your way. Tarot message: Don’t forsake a new learning opportunity because of pride. Lucky colour: Rainbow pastels. Magic number: 65

SCORPIO: Your card Page of Pentacles promises a progressive day. Personal plans are likely to progress. Be straight and above board when dealing with employment affairs. Issue over finances can cause upsets. Tarot message: Lay emphasis on spiritual needs. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 50

SAGITTARIUS: Attempt to improve your health will be successful. You feel you need time to understand the changes that are taking place in your psyche. 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: The married or those in love will find the day exciting. A lot of energy will be expended on communication today. Get your phone calls out of the way to be available for whoever needs an ear. Tarot message: Do not divest assets or transact in uncertain matters. Lucky colour: Aqua blue. Magic number: 45

AQUARIUS: Joint resources could be under pressure. The temptation to help out a friend should be discussed with your partner first. Today you can become conscious of your projected fears. Tarot message: Be articulate to prevent people from drawing their own conclusions. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 32

PISCES: Avoid eating out. Working toward your goals may seem a little harder than usual. Don’t panic! Stop your mind from badgering you with should and what-ifs. Take a few deep breaths then start doing the work. Tarot message: Don’t be dismissive of advice from youth. Lucky colour: Sea green. Magic number: 52

THE YEAR AHEAD
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is February 17...

Fortunate developments in business or through your mate’s help will occur. If you are considering joining forces and pooling your resources with someone else, now is a fine time to do so.

On an inner level, this is likely to be a time of psychological and emotional rejuvenation, and positive change. It is easier for you to eliminate old conditioning or negative patterns. Whatever leaves your life now is paving the way for something much better.

In 2012 you have a cooperative and receptive attitude which promotes harmonious relationships with your co-workers, employers, and employees. You may be a peacemaker at work. You may, however, not feel like working very intensively. It’s an ideal state for ploughing through day-to-day tasks and for tackling high-level thinking and long-term planning.

SadhaMood: Cheerful and peaceful. Compatible signs: Capricorn, Taurus, Leo. Lucky colours: Crimson, dark grey. Lucky days: Saturday. Lucky numbers: 2, 4, 6, 18, 100.Lucky gem: Peridot (Olivine). Lucky flower: Opium poppy. Suggestion  on birthday: Donate white dress to needy or poor students.

Sadha (Sadhaaf Syed Mohammed February 17, 1984, Ratnagiri) has acted in various Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada movies. Her Movie Anniyan a blockbuster in Tamil Nadu was also dubbed into Hindi named Aparichit. The Filmfare award for best newcomer in 2002 for the film Jeyam was won by her.





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