Complete act
For veteran actor Anupam Kher, while success 
in life is one-dimensional, failure is always a better teacher 

Vasudha Gupta

Bheega hua aadmi, baarish se nahi darta — it's this one sentence that has constantly guided veteran actor Anupam Kher in his life. At JW Marriot, Sector-35, Chandigarh, for a film-shoot, the actor left behind the glamour and glitz of his life as he spoke at length about his struggles and turmoils before his good days arrived.

Talking about his latest love, his book, The Best Thing About You Is You (Hay House Publications), the actor says, "I have always been an accidental writer. Being a 38 per cent boy in the class, I never imagined I will be writing a book."

Having done exceedingly well at the recent Jaipur Literary Festival, he is humbled by the response the book has garnered. It's great to witness the eight edition come out shortly after its launch," he smiles.

The journey of the book for the actor really began when the troubled times set in around 10 years ago. "Several publishing houses wanted me to pen down my experiences," he says. But leaving aside his love for the pen, the 'greedy' actor took over and he staged his famed Kuch Bhi Ho Sakta Hai, a one-man play. "It was just overwhelming to know how far it travelled and it really was not an account of my success, rather it was of my failures," he says. It was at that point that Anupam adorned the role of a motivational speaker. "It's been strange, but I never secluded myself. I wrote everywhere, including airports and in between shots," he shares, suddenly gesturing for a glass of juice. Pulling down the glass, he travels back in his space to recollect how his failures have made him everything he is. "For me, success in life is one-dimensional. Failure is always a better teacher," he adds.

Having recently lost his father, Anupam's loss is evident as the interaction steers towards the rock band's performance. "Dad was a happy person. Each time from my first play in class five to my last film, he had a very proud, idiotic expression on his face," he recollects. It was during the last six months that Anupam went on a nostalgic journey by his father's side. "All I wanted was to ask him so many questions," he says, with a pinch of remorse. Suddenly the energy picks up and the image of the adorable dad in Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jageyenge emerges. "I cannot mourn death, ever. He lived his life to the fullest and there is no reason to grieve about it," he says. From sharing funny anecdotes to wearing bright clothes, it was more of a party. "You know, what's terrible about the society is that if you grieve, they will prolong the grief. The ceremony helped my mother liberate from the stresses of a loss," he adds.

Exceedingly passionate about his acting school in Mumbai, he is glad the response has been good there. "I hope I can say the same for Chandigarh in the times to come," he says. Being a strict disciplinarian, he certainly believes that being in time and following the rules will always give you more time to enjoy. "Performing arts give me the opportunity to connect with the younger audience, which helps me learn more," he says.

A firm believer in the guru-shishya parampara, Anupam acknowledges that the acting school has given him great knowledge.

The father does not overshadow the role of a friend, which Aupam plays for his son. “It is the very beginning of his career, I guide him as much as I can and it depends on him to accept or reject my advice,” he smiles.

The interaction comes back to the book again, highlighting his sheer love for it. "The book is dedicated to my grandfather. During my days of struggle, I was very uncertain but he told me to cling on. I have realised that it's not always possible to please everyone and that attitude is everything in life," he says and leaves us with the intoxicating laughter from Lamhe.

Here is hoping the actor continues to charm one and all for ever.

vasudha@tribunemail.com

A journey called Kabir 
Shabnam Virmani, a documentary film-maker, speaks about Kabir and his essence
Vasudha Gupta

The year was 2002. Godhra riots ripped through Gujarat. Between the death and remorse, there were people who were compelled to look for Ram and Rahim, who were not biased or politically inclined. It was at that point that Shabnam Virmani, director of the Kabir Project, found her calling. The documentary film-maker, in Chandigarh as a part of Suno Bhai Sadho, a Kabir Festival organised by the Chandigarh Sangeet Natak Akademi, talks about Kabir and her journey in finding him.

Dressed in a simple suit and with a moving voice, she mesmerised the crowd, just as she sat with her tambura and drenched herself in the passion of Kabir. "Kabir points to the way of living before we mesh ourselves in the way of life," she smiles. Her dark eyes look into oblivion, as if her search for answers goes on still.

Talking about her love for life, Shabnam, says, "It's interesting but all societies offer the opportunity to each one of us to step out of our identities. This is exactly what the Bhakti poets did." She is actually surprised at the response her project has earned. "The project made ten audio CDs and books, but the documentary film received a phenomenal response," she shares with us.

From uploading the movie on YouTube and tracking the sales, Shabnam is only humbled at the fan following. The conversation breaks. "Yours was a great performance, I came all the way from Canada to see you," a fan says. The voice, which plays magic on stage, is only in appreciation of the fun, folk Kabir. "It is the festive Kabir, which inspired me. I am pained when I watch that Kabir is associated with remorse and grief. It's nothing like that," she laughs. Elaborating on the prevalence of the Kabir philosophy in today's day and age, she points to religious intolerance. "India and Pakistan have very compartmentalised religious idiosyncrasies. Only saints, like Kabir fuzzy identities," she says. Upset over restraining Kabir to only religion, her anger is apparent. Considering that patience levels in society are hitting the lowest levels, her idea that whenever there is hardening of thoughts and ideas, the opposite forces step up and take control, makes sense.

Talking about the beginning of the project, her eyes, suddenly dreamier, fix in space. "I had initially started the Kabir Project for just putting together my passion for travel, music and finding Kabir. Planning to wrap it up in two-three months, the subject was so compelling and transformation was so strong that I eventually spent six-seven months on it," she says. An alumnus of the Srishti School of Art, Design and Technology in Bangalore, Shabnam still remain in awe of how diverse the word of Kabir is. Alive in all strata, she hopes her four documentaries along with the audio CD and books will be able to make a mark in everyone's heart. "It is just too good to learn about him; beginning to follow him is like tasting blood," she smiles. Currently working on Shah Latif, she is certain that Indians don't do much to deserve their traditions. "We are just a complacent, lazy lot," she rues.

There is no doubt that philosophies tend to take you away from the real world; her answer comes after a nano second. "That is where his philosophies leap ahead. He keeps you attached without clinging," she says and leaves us with the nirvana of her voice as well as tambura.

vasudha@tribunemail.com

I cannot mourn death, ever. He lived his life to the fullest and there is no reason to grieve about it... You know, what's terrible about the society is that if you grieve, they will prolong the grief. The ceremony helped my mother liberate from the stresses of a loss — — Anupam Kher

Wits about him!
Gurpal Singh of Chuppa Rustam fame believes that celebrity status and the peace of mind do not go hand-in- hand
Ashima Batish

The most difficult task for a celebrity is to retain the celebrity status. Stay in news, create controversies, oblige fans on social networking sites, be part of reality shows; everything to ensure that the tag remains intact!

So, it is all the more surprising when Gurpal Singh of Chuppa Rustam fame, cites the reason for quitting the show and lying low for so long. "I am loner and a traveller, popularity started obstructing my way of living. I didn't like so much of attention. Once I was off the small screen, life came back to normal," he says.

So, we entirely believe him when he says that he never ran after work and everything happened on its own. He was approached for Chuppa Rustam and then Chupke-Chupke, Tedhi Baat with Shekhar Suman, Funjabi Chak De with Navjot Sidhu and Mandira Bedi followed. "But again minus any efforts from my side," adds Gurpal, who was in the city to shoot for a cameo for the film, Special 26, also starring Ajay Devgn.

A pass-out from the Film and Television Institute of India, his primary goal has always been to direct documentaries. "I want to change this perception that documentaries only preach. Fine, they do that, but they can also be entertaining. I would like to make one on the importance and shape of moustaches that men sport in India."

Besides making documentaries, he has also gone behind the camera to direct Comedy Circus season one, which was a huge hit.

His most ambitious projects, however, are the two film festivals he organises annually. The first is Bring Your Own Film Festival held in Pune. "There is no jury to select the film, no entries, no registrations; one is free to come up with any film, only the idea should be original." On the quality control aspect, he says, "Even in the mega-scale festivals, mediocre stuff gets a time slot. The ratio at our festival remains more or less the same."

The festival is already nine years old, the success of which has led to the birth of another one, Sonapani Film Festival, in which three films are screened daily for a week at a resort in Uttarakhand. While the festivals give a platform to people to showcase their talent, for him it's a way of socialising, of knowing people with similar interests; excuses to travel to different places. "I travel for eight months in a year."

And about the other celebrity add ons, like luxury cars and an enviable lifestyle, he doesn't even adhere to these norms. He categorically mentions that he doesn't have a car and no branded clothes for him. As for the pranks he had played on people in Chuppa Rustam, it's not difficult to know where he got his ideas from-his creative mind. The latest proof of that is m.a.f.i.a—musicians, artists, filmmakers, interesting log aa jao, a society on Facebook founded by him for the like-minded people.

ashima@tribunemail.com

Brush with the young
The 47th Annual Art Exhibition, put together by the students of Government College of Art, highlights the creative potential of budding artists
Manpriya Singh

Their creativity is capable of drawing the contrasts in the life of a common man while at the same time juxtaposing the bright and the boring! On one canvas there is an endeavour to display the beauty of silence, while on the other noise pollution is highlighted.

The 47th Annual Art Exhibition, put together by the students of Government College of Art, brings about 1,200 works of 300 students together and is every inch a students’ effort. The exhibition highlights the creative potential of the budding artists from the fields of sculpture, painting, applied art and graphics. To begin with, there’s a wall displaying the colourful efforts to stop child labour, child abuse and child trafficking. Says Akshiti Thaman, fourth-year student, BFA, “This year there has been quite an emphasis on the applied arts. This is a part of our curriculum in which we also learn the norms of perfectly displaying a work of art. We’ve been working on it for the past six months now.”

Some of the posters promote switching to vegetarianism, while still some others convey the benefits of yoga. There’s etching on topics as wide and varied as an unlocked cupboard, temptation, curiosity, fantasy, unknown desires, common man, nature’s revenge….clearly it’s too much on the walls blocked with a variety of works! Says Nirmal Parkash, faculty, “This time the students were more, so we even changed the display.” He adds, “For this the students worked the entire year and this time around, they enjoy their works being displayed.”

Moving on, large canvases take the centrestage. There’s the back of a girl, just bare hands playing tabla, a row of Ganesha statues, lots of footsteps, some in the background, others in the forefront, the beauty of a woman enjoying housework…in between Sanjay Kumar’s works, including Romantic Transition of Light, stands out. Says another student, “This exhibition is like a beginner’s platform. In this, we cover a range of topics right from the works that mirror our awareness of society to the philosophical-sensitive approach towards human emotions.” Each wall takes the visitor on a different journey, while each exhibition takes him on a similar journey.

manpriya@tribunemail.com

(On till 17th March at Government College of Art—10) 

doc talk
Dr Suruchi Gupta
Say goodbye to acne

Acne vulagaris (pimples) is a universal problem and usually affects the face, the upper part of the chest, and the back. These are commonly seen in teenagers during puberty but may continue up to adulthood.

Acne may have disfiguring effect in the form of active lesions, post-acne pigmentation or post-acne scars. This often leaves the sufferer with low self-confidence and low self-esteem. Therefore early and effective treatment is required to lessen the overall long-term adverse impact on the patients.

As everyone is looking for a reliable and effective acne treatment, the market is full of acne treatment products with tall claims and guarantees! But, the shocking truth is that most of the fancy products available over the counter don’t work and some products can even be harmful to your skin.

Now you don’t need to live with this problem as modern day science provides a big ray of hope for acne patients. A detailed medical history followed by clinical examination is a must so as to first ascertain the cause of acne. It is very important to rule out any underlying systemic condition or hormonal aberrations before starting the treatment. The latest on the cards is cocktail treatments for acne which is basically a unique blend of medical, laser and other latest state-of-the-art technologies delivering real and exemplary results.

First the active acne is to be treated with a combination of medical therapies like oral antibiotics and retinoids. Concurrent treatment for dandruff or seborrhea helps in addressing the problem better. A variety of chemical peels (glycolic acid, combination peels like salicylic, lactic and citric acid peels) may be used as an adjuvant to hasten the recovery and at the same time lessen the pigmentation.

The use of a non-oily sunscreen is a must for effective pigmentation reduction. Recently introduced mesotherapy or miconeedling dermaroller technique along with hyaluronic acid serum application is yielding rewarding results for the effective treatment of ugly acne scars. Minimum four to five sittings placed three to four weeks apart are required. The advantage of this therapy is that it requires little time.

Other promising treatment for acne scars is through finest cutting edge ablative 2940 nm Er:YAG Laser, 10,600nm CO2 Laser and non-ablative 1540nm Er:Glass Lasers. Looking at the safety profile and efficacy, 2940 nm Er:YAG Laser gives the best results on Indian skin. It is very precise and safe. To be used over delicate areas of face, produces better texture changes; and has less downtime with minimal risk of pigmentation.

(Dr Gupta is Chandigarh-based dermatologist and cosmetologist) 

For your home only 
Mona

Bringing in the best in the field of architecture is what the Inside Outside Mega Show offers. On from March 15 at Sekhon Banquet Hall, Zirakpur- Panchkula Highway, this show, now in its 25th year, gets the latest from the fields of interior design, construction and building material and furnishings.

Says Anup Sachdeva, the city coordinator, “These days, people are increasingly getting conscious of dressing up their homes. Even when buying a small apartment, people ensure that everything from flooring to furnishing is worthwhile.”

The show brings in companies that deal with aquanomics, prefabricated swimming pools, innovative decorative stuff from 3Decor, Spinalkare mattress (an orthopaedic mattress), window film from Meiwa, Japan, wall decoration from Plaque, France and much more.

Apart form the awards for stalls in different categories and a panel discussion (that focuses on commercialisation and the deeper ethics of development), Inside Outside is also organising A Celebration of Architecture, a four-day finale of the 12 city tour for the 2011-12.

Mohini Kewalramani, senior vice-president, branding and marketing, Communications, shares with us the details, “Selecting the best architect from India is not an easy job considering the amount of talent we have. So, with the help of our advisory committee that consists of known names in the filed of architecture, Rahul Kadri, Manit Rastogi, Rahul Thakkar, Prof Dabir and Vikas Oberoi, we are selecting the best projects.” Well, we all value the architects who give us beautiful, efficient, working spaces and this show aims to assist them in their endeavour. On till March 18. 

Road Rage
Simranjeet Gill
Frills for the mean machine

So, now that you have a super-bike and you find the tinkling has yet not subsided – accessorising is the next thing for you. Some would say accessorising, I would say personalising; having your say over the company tech. For, it’s your machine. There are a bunch of things that you can tinker with on your cruiser motorbike without actually remodeling one.

Exhausts

Yes, we all want that loud thumping exhaust note and we all go to lengths to make that happen. The factory-fitted exhausts are all street legal with sound not conforming to the norms. That doesn’t do justice to the machine and so changing exhausts would come first in line for many. Depending on your bike—the options would be Vance & Hines, Cobra or Screaming Eagles.

Heavy Air Breather

Allowing free flow of engine exhaust also demands free flow of intake air and hence the name, Heavy Air Breather. The stock air filter would have to make way for the air breather, essentially so, if the exhaust pipes are being changed.

ECM re-configuration

The super-bikes now are fitted with an electronic control module—a computer that controls the ignition and fuel injection. Whilst pipes and air-filter are changed, the ECM needs to be re-configured which otherwise would make the bike run on a leaner fuel mixture and cause engine overheat. The manufacturers of aftermarket exhausts provide with the remapping software/fuel pack to increase the peak engine horsepower.

Handle Bars

When the feel of bike over a longer ride create pains in back or shoulders, you should consider changing handle bars. Essentially, handle bars are changed to create more rider comfort with upright position than style. Burly Brand motorcycle handlebars along with the cable kits can be your aftermarket choice.  

Chrome

This is one element that can take you places to find your thing. Among all, bikers prefer to patronise Kuryakyn for chrome accessories. The list is endless – mirrors, turn signal mirrors, handle grips, foot rest, brake pedal, gear shift lever, cruise peg mounts and many more.

Saddle Bags:

You miss them like anything, if you’ve been through what almost every biker has at some stage. A must for touring rides, for they contain all the basic essentials and come in handy in the hour of need. Many kinds of bags are available such as – sissy bar bag, tank bag, handlebar bag and saddle bag. Companies as Motocentric, Willie & Max, Tourmaster might fit in your design.

Having said all, it is worthwhile to check with your bike manufacturer before making changes as some modifications may void factory warranty. Happy tweaking!

(Gill is Chandigarh-based HOG rider)

Designed to fly
Vasudha Gupta

Charandeep Singh, a 22-year-old lad, completed his schooling from St Stephen’s, Chandigarh, and went on to complete a course in product designing from the National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad. He has won the first prize in designing a tractor for the year 2020 in a National Design Competition held at IIT Kanpur.

We find out what makes him a cut above the rest.

Motivational factor

My failures have constantly motivated me. Whenever I am stuck in a tight spot, I remember my mistakes and failures.

Feathers in your cap

I have designed a two-seater car for commuting in space. It was the first prize winning entry at the Pace Global Forum held at Vancouver, Canada, organised by General Motors. I have worked on projects like designing money; identifying devices for the visually impaired et al.

Strengths and weaknesses

Those who are genuinely interested in my success motivate me in life. My parents in particular tend to always push me towards achieving more. Identifying weakness is a negative attitude.

Flipside of being an achiever

There is no flipside to being an achiever. The kind of adulation achievement brings, tends to negate its minuscule fallouts.

Words of wisdom

Have a dream in your life. Put your heart and your soul in making it come true.

(If you think you fit in the profile, get in touch with us at lifestyletribune@gmail.com. We’ll sift the best from the rest)

Star track

On Ranveer’s fitness trail

Ranveer Singh has played different characters in each of his movies. He shares his passion for fitness and food 

Ranveer Singh went from being street smart and being likable in Band Baajaa Baaraat to super hot in Ladies versus Ricky Bahl. Here he talks about his fitness regime and diet.

Diet mantras

I have a very strict diet. I avoid pasta, rice, roti, and bread. Sometimes I crave fried rice and roti but I cannot eat it because it shows on my body. My diet is high-protein and low carbohydrate and my carbs come from fruits and veggies. I have lots of dry fruits, nuts, fruits, and protein shakes. I eat lean meats, veggies, and sprouts for my meals.

Not without my team

My diet changes with the movies I do. I have a tendency to put on weight given my body type. At the beginning of a movie, my trainer, my valet, my mother, my cook, and I sit together and discuss everything so that I can carry a dabba to the sets. My valet checks on me if I cheat.

B-town’s best

I think in Bollywood, Akshay Kumar’s fitness levels and discipline are admirable. He wakes up at four am to work out if his shoot is at six am. Hrithik Roshan has played a huge role in sending people to the gym. I think Anushka Sharma has the best body in Bollywood because she works out, eats right, sleeps right, and has a high metabolism.

On six pack abs

I know a six-pack looks great but it involves months of hard work and dedication. The results are worth it though. I feel more confident and motivated when I feel and look fit. A few days before the shoot, you have to carefully monitor your food and water intake.

Weak in the knees

I have a weakness for chocolates and sweets. I also love chicken biryani, mutton biryani, and chicken fried rice. I have not eaten it in ages.

Next best friends

Rekha and Vidya Balan are very close and it seems that Vidya is Rekha’s heir because of the way her stars have risen! They both dress similarly. Vidya always invites Rekha to her movie screenings and it was no different for the screening of Kahaani.

For old time’s sake

Ranveer Singh always has good things to say about Anushka Sharma. He says that she has the best body in Bollywood and she works really hard, is very strong, and has a high metabolism. She sleeps well too.

On the food front

While shooting in Rajasthan for Chaar Din Ki Chandni, Tusshar Kapoor developed a taste for vegetarian Rajasthani cuisine like daal baati churma and ghatta nu shaak. So he tells his cook to make all this for him sometimes.

Aamir not ready!

Actor Aamir Khan, who would be seen as a baddie in the third installment of hit film series Dhoom, says, he is not mentally prepared for the film. “I have started preparations for Dhoom 3. For my role I have began working on the physical side,” Aamir said. “But I am not mentally yet prepared,” he felt. Dhoom series centres around bike chases, handsome thieves and daring theft plans. After the success of Dhoom (2004) and Dhoom 2 (2006) there is a buzz about the third part.

Aamir would play the bad guy, while Abhishek Bachchan and Uday Chopra would reprise their roles of Jai and Uday respectively. The 47-year-old actor would feature opposite Katrina Kaif in the film, directed by Victor Acharya. —PTI

India calling
Bipasha Basu wants to feel the pulse of real India, visit places and try local cuisines 

Bipasha Basu has travelled from Greece to Australia and America shooting for her films. She has toured quite a bit of India too while shooting and promoting her films. She talks about her desire to visit Indian cities.

Go Goa

Goa is my favourite city for anything and everything. I love swimming and running on the beach and gorging on sea food. I love going there with my friends and soaking up the sun.

Incredible India

I wish I can see more of real India. I usually stay in hotels and visit clubs and malls and hotels when I am touring for the movies. I love the warmth and love of the people wherever I go. We are so important to them so it is important to set the right example. I usually live out of a suitcase when I am on a tour and I wish I had more time to venture into the city and eat the local foods and visit places.

Plans in place

Maybe one day I will take a break from work and travel all by myself across India. I have learnt everything on the way, even acting. I just took it up. So I will travel around India on my own and learn everything first hand. I could go backpacking, trekking, stay with locals in the mountains, and some other unplanned stuff. It could be fun! —PTI

Here comes the shoe stopper

Pop diva Madonna is set to launch a shoe range this autumn with Aldo. The 53-year-old, who started young fashion line Material Girl with her daughter Lourdes in 2010, is now branching out into footwear with a range of dance-inspired shoes, a website reported.

“Her fingers are really on this brand. The first thing I did was remind her of all the shoes she wore over the years, and we took the styles that we can’t live without. You can always depend on her to bring her style and provocateur quality, but she also has a very feminine perspective,” said Arianne Phillips, Madonna’s long-time stylist. The range, which is aimed at women aged 27 to 50, will eventually be expanded to include fragrances, clothes, accessories and lingerie. — PTI

In sickness and health

Arjan Bajwa and Ajay Devgn suffered from food poisoning on the sets of Son of Sardar in Patiala and are on medication. Nothing happened to the other cast members.

Close brush with Kashmir

Aamir Bashir’s acclaimed film on Kashmir titled Harud is finally releasing in April. The censor issues have been sorted and he is also making a sequel to that film titled Winter. For people who are interested, Inshallah Football and Inshallah Kashmir are highly recommended.

On road to motherhood

Shilpa Shetty is due in a couple of months. She doesn’t wish to cover her bump and has been attending events wearing pretty gowns flaunting her baby bump. She is also enjoying cooking and chilling out with her husband. Way to go!

Agent Vinod perfect for sequels: Saif Ali Khan

Actor Saif Ali Khan feels that his upcoming action-thriller Agent Vinod with Kareena Kapoor has the potential to become a successful franchise. Though the actor says it is too early to talk about sequels, he admits that the idea has crossed his mind. “I want to take one step at a time. If the audience likes the film and they want more, we would go forward with it. I think the film is perfect for a franchise but it is too early to talk about it,” Saif said in an interview. “The film has taken about three years. I got lots of bumps and bruises along the way but it was worth it because I felt it could be something. If it becomes a franchise, it would be a dream project,” he added.

Saif, 41, has produced the film through his Illuminati Films banner besides playing the central character of a RAW agent in the movie, which hits screens on March 23. It has been directed by Sriram Raghavan, who gave Saif his career’s first negative role in Ekk Hasina Thi. “That film was a little ahead of its time but Agent Vinod is releasing at the right time. Sriram Raghvan is a very interesting director and he has done something remarkable in this film too,” said Saif.

The film’s song Pungi is already on its way to become one of the biggest hits of the year. The actor says he contributed a lot to the peppy dance number. “There is a sequence in the film when Agent Vinod is being watched in a close circuit camera. We wanted to show the audience that Agent Vinod is capable of humour. People may think that he is a copy of James Bond but he is very Indian. Pungi is a lovely song. I made half of the steps myself. It was good fun.”

Saif says he is hoping for two weeks of good business at the box office for the film. “We are not interested in the word of mouth. It is for small films. The hype of a big budget film should match with the numbers. The idea is to create as much buzz as possible. We are hoping for a good two weeks at the box office initially.” The actor has a busy year ahead. He is about to finish shooting Homi Adajania’s Cocktail with Deepika Padukone.

He will begin shooting Judwaa sequel in a couple of months. The actor, who turned producer with Love Aaj Kal, says he wants to improve the quality of films by producing interesting stories. “The long term goal is to work on interesting stories, try to improve the quality of films. They change with generation. You try to put your ideas and thoughts into the mainstream. I like to do darker films or stories which take you out of your comfort zone and surprise you.” —PTI

Lovebirds on a roll

Sonal Chauhan and Neil Nitin Mukesh are the new lovebirds in Bollywood. They were spotted hanging out at a suburban eatery and spent two hours together. They might even do a movie together and have been dating for over two weeks.

 

Chatter box

The perfect replacement?

Sharad Kelkar, who replaced Mohnish Behl is looking forward to the show Kuch Toh Log Kahenge. He talks about doing the role and being friendly with the co-stars, which makes it easier for him to do the show.

How are you feeling about replacing Mohnish Behl?

I have taken on the role but I will be playing the role in my own way. I won’t be copying anyone. The role is a great one and I am glad to be part of the show.

Did you feel like a newcomer on the set?

Not at all. I know producer Rajan Shahi since Saat Phere and have known Kritika Kamra and Karan Wahi since a while. We are all friends and it is fun to be working with them.

But you are younger than Mohnish who suited the older guy’s role. How will you manage that?

I am working with the director and we are working towards portraying the maturity of the role. I will now sport a stubble and have glasses. The character is well defined and I hope to do my best.

How did you prepare for the role?

I did a two-day workshop with other actors in the show, which helped me a lot.

What can the audiences expect?

We hope to put up a great show. The story of Kuch Toh is amazing and I hope my inclusion adds to the serial.

What else is happening in your career?

Recently my Marathi film Chinu was released and I had to work with the Kuch Toh team.

Down but not out 

Sumit Vats aka Rishi Kumar from Hitler Didi, shot with high fever and bad throat infection for the Holi special episode. Sumit couldn’t talk due to his illness yet managed to get the day’s work done.

Italian Job

FOX Traveller brings the best of culinary delights from Italy and France - David Rocco’s Dolce Vita Season 4 and French Food Safari, weeknights at 9pm.  Join Maeve O Meara, along with Chef Guillaume Bhrahimi as they open doors to exciting French delicacies with French Food Safari on Fox traveller. The show will walk you through the essentials of French food, from fresh salads to classic French pastries and magnificent desserts. In this new season, David Rocco’s Dolce Vita comes back with renewed vigour and takes us to the beautiful Tuscan countryside. David and his wife Nina prepare everything from lavish Italian feasts to simple homemade recipes. The gastronomic journey includes bread, pastas, pizzaz, soups, the best sauces and all things Italian that are difficult to resist. 

Govinda aala re

Host Shekhar Suman had claimed that he wanted Anna Hazare as his first guest on the new season of Movers & Shakers on SAB but he had to settle for actor Govinda. The star who has been away from the limelight for a while spoke about his political experiences and his films. The humourous side, Govinda is known for, also came alive on the show.

Arjun’s got talent

Arjun Rampal did not have the slightest idea that his hidden talents will also be revealed on the sets of NDTV India’s Issi Ka Naam Zindagi. Not many know that Arjun has a secret passion for DJing. When Raveena came to know about this, she made it a point to bring this up in her conversation with Arjun when he came on the chat show and also requested him to perform a small gig on the show. Arjun boldly took it up and performed on the show. His fans enjoyed the act a lot. 

Thumbs down

Sumona Chakravarti of Bade Acche Lagte Hain met with an accident last Saturday yet shot her portions for the show with help of painkillers. Her thumb got stuck in the car door. Later the pain increased and she had to go to a doctor.

Ronit promotes vegetarianism

Ronit Roy is good friends with Romit Raj while working on Sony’s Adaalat. In fact, Ronit influenced Romit and turned him into a vegetarian. Romit was a hardcore non-vegetarian all his life but now has stopped eating non-veg. 

 

 

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is March 15...

The number six and Venus, make you enthusiastic, loyal, charming, witty and helpful in nature. You have a very sharp memory, and your grasping power is wonderful. Pay attention to accounting and investigate any new information thoroughly. Things will go rather well for employees. In fact, you could do a little more spending than usual, without over-doing it.

Sharing ideas, emotions and resources will be your best part for this year. You will feel glorified as abundant possibilities open up in front of you. Be patient for just a little longer. You will be surprised at what you learn. Do not give up on the puzzle that has been frustrating. Now is not the time to walk away. This year there will be a rise in your expenses making it difficult for you to save.

There appears to be plenty to do and not a lot of time to waste getting it done. A fun gathering is indicated.

You can easily hold positions of leadership and authority but you lose good opportunities due to your tendency to behave moody, stubborn and vindictive at times.

Spending appears to escalate and ‘out with the old and in with the new’ may be driving the budget, especially on big ticket items, furnishing, appliances and electronics. So think twice before you spend money on such things. Students will perform well in academics and will be rewarded for their contribution towards extracurricular activities.

Listen to the needs of friends quickly. If you get involved in a ‘home improvement project’ with a relative, make sure you know what you are getting into first and make/put conditions upon your involvement.

You will be involved in activities that require more physical effort. Take adequate care of your health. Investments in 2012-13 will bring good returns, though not immediately but eventually.

You have the chance to express that sensitivity, and get to the heart of how others feel about you. Spouse remains cooperative despite your erratic behavior.

Mood: Clear and quick witted. Compatible signs: Sagittarius, Scorpio.

Lucky colours: Dark salmon, Fire brick. Lucky days: Wednesday and Saturday.

Lucky numbers: 2, 10, 20, 22. Lucky gem: Diamond and Emerald. Lucky flower: Blue peas. Suggestion on birthday: Contribute in construction of school, religious building in kinds.

You share your birthday with actor Abhay Deol (15 March, 1976) today. Dev-D and Oye Lucky Oye fame Abhay is nephew of veteran actor Dharmendra and his cousins are Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol and Hema Malini’s daughter Esha Deol. This year will establish him as a hero. He is expected to do a lot of commercial cinema as well. 

 

Astro Turf
p Khurrana

ARIES: Do not be tempted to day dream of what lies ahead once your working week is done. Romance could end in an anticlimax. Be tactful in your criticism though emotions will be easily aroused. Tarot message: Health of an elderly member at home will need looking after. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 32

TAURUS: Old acquaintances are likely to pop up and you will be intrigued to exchange stories. Don’t make important moves today. Follow that hunch to take up an old hobby again. Take care of your stomach. Tarot message: Feel good about yourself and prepare yourself for a mental battle. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 28

GEMINI: A call from a relative brings an opportunity to remember the past. Past differences could easily cause quarrels. Regular employment affairs will run smoothly enough. Tarot message: You may encounter some difficulties regarding finances. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 30

CANCER: Complete errands, socialise and catch up on paper-work and correspondence. Push hard for the good results that you know you are capable of achieving. Tarot message: This is not a bad time to open up new doors that could lead you in a more lucrative direction. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 31

LEO: The card King of Wands reveals best moments to relax and socialise with friends and loved ones. You should be lucky in your choice of entertainment. Beware when looking at electronics or cassettes. Tarot message: Avoid gossip session at work. Lucky colour: Fuchsia. Magic number: 64

VIRGO: Discussing and chit-chat with those in close proximity increase but you will instinctively know when to talk and when to put your head down and work. Defer making fresh investments. Tarot message: You can stabilise your financial situation. Lucky colour: Burgundy. Magic number: 42

LIBRA: Catching up on jobs you have been putting off for a while seems like a wise idea. You will shine in surroundings that are unfamiliar to you. You may be joining forces with a person older in an exciting venture. Tarot message: Over optimism could lead to mistakes. Lucky colour: Beige. Magic number: 59

SCORPIO: You will be amazed how much lighter you will feel when you have shared those concerns. New partnerships can be formed. Try not to nag people about minor issues. Do not find fault in others work. Friends will be helpful. Tarot message: Do not overspend just to impress others. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 60

SAGITTARIUS: Use your status of communication boldly with a creative expression. Patronage from powerful individuals can validate your efforts. Get on with minor repairs around the home. Tarot message: Leave things open ended for best results. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 40

CAPRICORN: You will be able to cope with jobs that require team efforts. Home entertaining will go rather well. Be wary of a situation which could be mistaken. You will inevitably repent later. Tarot message: You will get the help you need if you ask for it. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 57

AQUARIUS: Where you go and whatever you do the focus of everyone’s attention is likely to be firmly on you as the center of the action. Relatives will be sensitive to get along with. Tarot message: Wait a while everything will get sorted out on its own. Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 52

PISCES: Do not get involved in any land deal. Make your boss aware of all the hard work that you have been putting in. Accepting accolades is a healthy experience that promotes self-confidence. Tarot message: You need to be creative if you want to retain your grip over your business. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 63





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