In Cheers
Singer Rabbi Shergill's third album's title — III — intrigues; his simplicity pleases while his non-conformity delights
Jasmine Singh

He intrigues — his measured way of talking, the 'do-you-know-me' enough air around him, his songs; his take on releasing his latest album titled III after four years and the bard himself — Rabbi Shergill! He interests as a fable, he can crack a joke with a dead-pan expression. Gossip magazines haven't been able to create a sketch of Rabbi, which leaves every effort of knowing him us along with the feeling — 'do-we-know-him' enough! With Universal Music launching his album, the singer comes down to Chandigarh to share notes on it and much more.

The curiosity begins with the name of the album — III. "There is not much creative thought behind it. It is my third album so the name is kept in a chronological order. Besides, this isn't a great time for independent music so I did not want to confuse people any further," says Rabbi.

This nine-song album was ready in two years (slightly less to be precise), but Rabbi took time looking for a suitable label to release it. "I wanted to release my work with a music company that could share my interest of independent music. As of now, the music industry is into filmi music," says Rabbi.

His songs, like always, are on issues he strongly feels about. "The first track in the album is Ganga, which refers to the river as an embodiment of womanhood." Says Rabbi, “Tu naah we meri Ganga vich tells the woman to swim through the river and get her freedom. And to be strong and bold," he explains moving to another intriguing number — Cabaret Weimar. "Well this one equates the irony of Germany of 1920s with that of India in 2012. It is something like comparing cultural explosion with political passivity. I have rapped with Miami-based rapper J Nu for the song,"

Rabbi definitely doesn't fall into any genre or cannot be categorised in a group. He is simply incapable of conformity, which shows in his numbers as well. When everybody with the tag of musician is going by the popular wave, Rabbi is all for independent music. "Earlier TV would promote this kind of music, but now it is the filmi music that rocks everywhere. Singers like Lucky Ali and Kailash Kher did come out with independent albums, but it is popular music that has a huge market," he says.

When one of the scribes surprised us by dropping in Miss Pooja, the Punjabi singers name and her popular style of singing, Rabbi can only say what 'he' feels. "If people are listening to it and it is popular, then of course it is good. The trend of popular music is still present in Punjab, which is a good thing."

How about singing a Punjabi number then? A faint smile comes flying, "I wouldn't mind if there is something interesting. I did sing for Jimmy Shergill's Dharti." Rabbi wouldn't mind singing for Bollywood movies if only the directors don't call their flicks Bollywood. "The term is too distasteful. I believe there are some interesting movies coming up and I wouldn't mind doing music for them."

jasmine@tribunemail.com

An Indian tune
Indian classical vocalist Saskia Rao De Haas says our rich music heritage is popular across the globe
Vasudha Gupta

Saskia Rao De Haas
Saskia Rao De Haas

It is an irony of sorts when a lady of foreign origin talks about Indian classical music like the back of her hand! Coming from a family of musicians, Saskia Rao De Haas had no idea about Indian music when her journey with music began at seven. Sitting pretty in an Anarkali suit, her earrings move rhythmically as she talks about her devotion to Indian classical music.

In Chandigarh for a festival of Indian classical music being organised at the Punjab Engineering College in association with SPIC MACAY, she speaks about how inclination towards Indian classical music is vital for children. "Today parents make it a point to ensure children understand the true essence of classical music," she says. Saskia has been holding workshops in India and abroad for the sake of children. She adds, "It's interesting to see how the local culture of Indian classical music has today become global." Living in Delhi since the past 12 years, there is gush of blush at the mere mention of her husband, sitarist Shubhendra Rao, "I came to Delhi on a scholarship in 1994, but it was not until 1999 that it matured into marriage," she says. Being the balancing factor in her life, she is well-aware how he holds her together.

Talking about her journey with the cello, she says, "The moment I knew that I wanted to play the cello in Indian style, I was prepared to re-learn." Created especially for her, the Indian cello took 12 years and a lifetime of work for a Netherlands-based violin player Eduard Van Tongeren. "The modified cello has five strings and ten resonating strings," she says. It was the point where Saskia felt that everything about her instrument was right. "It just adds something extra, which sounds great," she adds.

Walking down the memory lane, Saskia recollects the moment when she would just walk into her building and the sound of the flute would fill the air. "My teacher always discouraged me to ape him or a vocalist," she says. Happy to have improvised on the style, she is all set to launch her album soon. "We have recorded for two albums, one being my solo and the other an introspective piece on the journey through life," she adds. Busy acquainting her seven-year-old son, Ishaan, with music, she is glad that he found his instrument in the piano. "He is a part of our lives and it's all about making the right arrangement," she adds.

Considering that the passion for classical music has been witnessing a steady growth, the justification for the same comes clear, "The only requirement is to immerse yourself in the aroma of classical music with an open mind," she says.

If you are ready to make a more emotional, intellectual and a spiritual connection with music, hearing Saskia is a true delight!

vasudha@tribunemail.com

Mystery element
Avinesh Rekhi from Chandigarh, lead actor in Colors’ new show Chhal Sheh Aur Mat, says he wants to experience the telly world thoroughly
Jasmine Singh

Whether it is Saif Ali Khan going full on the mysterious element in his movie Agent Vinod or audiences trying to decode the 'oh my god' factor in Vidya Balan's Kahani — everyone seems to enjoy a little mystery. Colors' new show Chhal Sheh Aur Mat falls in line with the same.

So, when the lead actor Avinesh Rekhi from Chandigarh maneuvers facts about the woman whom he claims as his wife, television audiences enjoy the nail-biting moments in the soap only wishing a saas or some 'returning-from-the-ashes' doesn't appear in Chhal! As of now everything is mysterious; our Chandigarh lad thinks the same, without wanting to reveal what's next?

"My friends and family like the show; they keep asking me to tell them what will happen next, but who will watch the show if I reveal the mystery. Besides, we have worked so hard on Chhal that we want the audience to enjoy it thoroughly," Avinesh is gung-ho about his debut.

This is a new world for him; he has often heard stories of someone dying and reappearing in the story and tons of glycerin used on the shows, but he wants to explore it all. "I know of the monotony people keep talking about in the TV industry, but this is my first serial and I am enjoying every bit of it. I have been struggling hard, gave a lot of auditions and finally Chhal happened," adds the actor who has grown up seeing a lot of psychological thrillers. "Chhal has an interesting storyline and all the elements of mystery; we have tried to give the audiences something different. Every episode brings in new twists and turns."

With TV actors one can't help talking about competition and survival, given the script can change any minute. For Avinesh, however, things are fresh. "Competition is the order of the day, but hardwork and dedication is the key to succeed. As of now I don't want to think about any changes; I like Chhal and this is taking most of my time."

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Gyan Zone
Infinitely winsome
Designers Manoj Kumar and Vinod Bhardwaj, who showcased their collection at Lakme Fashion Week, talk about their experience
Sabia Talwar

Students of INIFD sport the designer duo’s creations
Thread fare: Students of INIFD sport the designer duo’s creations

No matter where you come from, but if you dare to dream big and work towards it, you can achieve them, come what may. This is true in case of the INIFD final year students, Manoj Kumar and Vinod Bhardwaj, whose collection Infinity was appreciated at Lakme Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2012 at the Grand Hyatt, Mumbai.

The duo talks about their collection which is being showcased at INIFD-8, Chandigarh.

So, how was your experience at the Lakme Fashion week? “It was an out of the world feeling when our collection was showcased on such a huge platform and in front of so many big names,” says Manoj. Manoj belongs to Jhajjar, Haryana and was enrolled for the merchant navy for nearly eight months but then his passion was fashion, so he came down to Chandigarh to follow his dreams. Same is the case with Vinod, who belongs to Akri, Himachal Pradesh, who worked in a newspaper as a daily wager but always wanted to experiment with creativity, so what was better than fashion designing.

L-R: Manoj Kumar and Vinod Bhardwaj with a model showcasing a creationSo, the collection has been inspired by the banyan tree wherein the colour scheme is earthy green and brown and fabrics like muslin and cheese cloth are being used. Vinod explains about the collection, “We are very much inspired by the nature, so the garments have a tie-and-die effect, self-carved wooden blocks and a lot of drapes, pleats and gathers with hand woven ropes to accentuate the look.”

The ensemble includes convertible silhouettes like palazzos, harem pants, balloon tops, one- piece halter dresses, shorts and flowing gowns. The garments are embellished with jute belts, bags and jackets. We wonder how they managed to co-ordinate being the only two guys in their entire class. “We had a good rapport from the very start so we decided to work together for this collection,” adds Manoj.

The Gen Next designers were mentored by ace designer Aki Narula. Their collection was sported by top models. Says Manoj, “The most interesting thing about our garments is that they are convertible and each of them can be worn with at least two different looks.” And that was quite evident as the heram pants quickly changed into palazzo pants, a free-flowing gown altered into a balloon top and a lot more. Now the duo is gearing up for the next season of the fashion week. So what will be next in line? Well only time will tell.

sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com

Doc Talk
Mummy makeover
Dr Harpreet S Bakshi

Giving birth can be one of the most rewarding experiences of a woman’s life. Unfortunately, pregnancy and breast-feeding often result in unwanted changes in a woman’s body, such as drooping breasts, enlarged areolas, loss of waist definition, pockets of fat in the abdomen, stretch marks, and a sagging tummy that does not respond to exercise and dieting. The loose muscles and stretched skin may improve over time, but the body never completely returns to the way it was before the pregnancy.

Yummy mummies

It used to be that women were resigned to living with these natural changes in their bodies. Now, however, more and more women are looking into ways to become ‘yummy mummies’.

Mums seek out plastic surgeons to rejuvenate their breasts and tummies to the youthful firmness they enjoyed before having children. These procedures are collectively called “mummy makeovers” or “post-maternity reshaping”. These procedures may be done in combination or as separate procedures. These are procedures which restore your self-confidence, help you to feel comfortable with your body, allows you to find clothes that fit, and wear them better.

Is it right for you?

Mummy makeover surgery is a highly individualised procedure and you should do it for yourself, not to fulfill someone else’s desires or to try to fit any sort of ideal image. It is a good option for you if:

n You have decided not to have more children.

n You have specific fat pockets on your trunk or limbs which do not decrease despite weight loss and exercise. 

n You are fit and healthy with adequate nutritional intake.

n You are at a stable weight.

You do not plan to have any more children.

n You are a non-smoker or ex-smoker.

n You have good skin.

n You have a positive outlook.

n You have specific, but realistic goals in mind for the improvement of your appearance.

The good news is that there are several options available to treat the body for common post-pregnancy problems, including flabby tummies, excess fat on hips, buttocks, thighs and arms, stretch marks and sagging breasts.

The most common mummy makeover procedures include liposuction and tummy tuck. Other procedure like breast lift/enlargement or reduction, thigh lift and labioplasty can be clubbed and planned according to individual requirements.

Liposuction involves the removal of fat for aesthetically sculpturing and recontouring the body and is used to target localised fat deposits (unsightly bulges) in areas hips, thighs and abdomen, which simply cannot be corrected by usual weight-loss methods. It is the only treatment proven to be safe and effective for permanent removal of localised fat deposits. Liposuction can be combined with a “tummy tuck” procedure for women who have developed loose skin and abdominal wall weakness and desire to regain figure (after child bearing), wear tight clothing and look natural in overall contour, both sitting and standing. After having children, many women become unhappy with the shape and size of their breasts. Pregnancy can cause the breasts to sag and can also cause an increase or decrease in cup size. There are several types of procedure, including breast augmentation with breast implants, breast reduction and a breast lift. These procedures can be performed in addition to other fat reduction and lift procedures as part of a full mum’s makeover. These procedures (or a combination of them) can produce extraordinary results. What’s more, procedures can not only get women back to how they looked before pregnancy, but sometimes even better.

(Dr Bakshi a Panchkula-based plastic surgeon)

Celeb Point
Missing Mona

She was one person the entire industry spoke only good about. A friend’s friend. A survivor in life…but lost to the cruel jaws of death. Miss you, Mona Kapoor!

I didn’t know Mona, Boney Kapoor’s first wife, that well a few years back, but gradually a bond just developed. I used to shoot in her studio and always thought of her as a very strong person. A very positive lady, who was there for everyone. Anyone in need, she was the first to offer help.

She invited me to her house for a get-together and it was so nice to see so many industry people there who love and care for her. After that we became chat buddies. She told me that I was the simplest and the most positive soul in the industry. Her affection and warmth touched me deep down. After a few months she told me about her illness. I was shocked to hear about it but she sounded like an iron lady who will fight this one battle with life too. The last I met her was at the Prithvi Theatre where we both had gone to watch a play with our respective families. Though she was unwell, she was more bothered about me and ma getting good seats. I couldn’t miss the spirit of life in her!

When I had a theft in my house, she was the first to message me, asking if I needed any help. That too from the hospital! I messaged her that I would come and see her when I am back from the outdoor. But as I get back, I hear she’s no more. Life moves on bur I could not get her out of my thoughts. Her son Arjun Kapoor’s film releases in a few weeks. She missed seeing her son become a star.

I stay with a regret that I couldn’t meet her, but have sweet memories of her, nevertheless! Her favourite line always was, ‘Rab rakha. RIP Mona Kapoor! You will be so terribly missed.

(Dutta is a Bollywood actor)

TROUBLE SHOOTER
Agree to disagree
Simmi Waraich

I am a doctor who has been married once. It didn’t work out and we had a divorce by mutual consent. I married again and both families were happy. However, my husband is not a doctor. He is very set in his ways and seems to do no work. I find it amazing that he does nothing but many people in his circle do not work regularly but live off income from land or properties. I also feel he does not care for me enough. I find myself getting very irritated with his complacency. Do people change in life as they go along? Finding it difficult to cope.

— Monica, Amritsar.

Well, people do keep evolving in many ways with age. However, it might be better to first see what is it that is upsetting you. You said in his circle many people do not work regularly. Each person views the world in a different way based on their personality and circumstances. Many people with different interests do have a good relationship because they realise that it’s alright for even husband and wife to have separate viewpoints. The basic crux is the respect for one another’s point of view and interests even if one disagrees with them. Communication is the key—learning to talk and trying to understand the other’s point of view by empathising with them and gently giving your own opinion in a non abrasive manner helps to form a strong base. When the other person feels valued, then they are more open to change. If on the other hand, communication ends up being critical then naturally the person becomes defensive. As for not caring enough, at times if you give before expecting affection from him, in the form of seeing what he might like you to do for him may again make him reciprocate. Simple conversation, ‘thank you’s and small appreciations do no harm. If you find it is not helping, go in for counselling.

(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)

star track
On the bikini bandwagon

Ameesha Patel is more than happy to do a bikini scene in Race 2. Bikini scenes have become a trademark of Abbas-Mustan movies! She has been doing photoshoots in bikinis and is confident to wear one in a movie.

Friends in B-town!

Kangna Ranaut and Priyanka Chopra are friends. They starred together in Fashion and are doing Krrishh 3 together too. PC attended her birthday bash and they greeted each other warmly. That is good to know! 

Marked absent

Kangna Ranaut missed Emraan Hashmi at her birthday bash. Her first co-star didn't attend because he had a shoot all day long and wanted to bring in his own birthday with his family.

It's raining cash

Rakhi Sawant and DJ Sheizwood went to the birthday party of a minister in Delhi. Daler Mehndi, Raveena Tandon, Anil Thadani and other guests were also there. Daler went on stage to perform and then Rakhi Sawant along with rakhi brother DJ Sheizwood went on stage and started a rain of cash on Daler as they loved his performance. After that, Rakhi and Sheizwood also sang songs and performed. The party went on till the wee hours.

The television stars at the celebrations Straight from the silver screen

Karishma Tanna, Jai Soni, Shruti Seth, Shivashankar, Hanif, Aryan Vaid, Alex & Shama Sikander recently got together at the 13th anniversary of a certain coffee bar in a suburban Mumbai. Here is the picture of the crowd and the celebrations.

Madding crowd: The television stars at the celebrations

 

 

Taste of his medicine

After having made a successful acting career out of comedy films like Masti, Malamaal Weekly, Hey Baby and Housefull among others, actor Riteish Deshmukh says he does not like watching comic capers.

"I don't watch comedies. If I go to a DVD store and if I buy 100 movies then there might be one comedy film in it. I don't buy comedies I don't like watching comedy films," Riteish said. "I don't watch my own films... whenever I see my films I change the channel. I don't know why so, I like to see others' films," he said. The 32-year-old, who is known for his comic timing, says he interacts and watches other people play a funny character. "I watch other people, there are so many people in real life who are funny. If I had to name four funny people I met, then it would be Sajid Nadiadwala, Sajid Khan, Farah Khan and Karan Johar... they are extremely funny, have great sense of humor and it is great to interact with them." "I don't write the scenes. I always feel if you understand the scene well then everything else falls in place," Riteish said. He would be next seen in yet another comedy film, Housefull 2, directed by Sajid Khan. — PTI

 

 

Jacqueline to do a Hollywood movie?

After Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Bipasha Basu's Hollywood outing, its now model-turned-actress Jacqueline Fernandez, who is all set to make a splash in a Canadian-British venture. The 26-year-old has been approached for Definition of Fear, a project that marks the directorial debut of producer James Simpson.

"I have been approached for that. Talks are on, nothing has been finalised yet," Jacqueline said in an interview.

Born in Sri Lanka, the former beauty queen made her acting debut in 2009 in Bollywood with a fantasy movie titled Aladin alongside Amitabh Bachchan, Ritesh Deshmukh, and then once again appeared alongside Ritesh in the romantic-comedy Jaane Kahan Se Aayi Hai. Both these films were box office duds.

However, her last outing was opposite Emraan Hashmi in Murder 2, one of the highest grossing films of 2011. Earlier, Aishwarya featured in a Hollywood film, titled The Pink Panther 2 and Bipasha Basu would be seen in Singularity.

In the meantime, Jacqueline has been signed up for Pravegaya, her maiden outing in Sri Lankan film industry. "I have always had a lot of support from Sri Lanka and people have been very nice and supporting me here. There are lots of Bollywood fans there. Right now, our country is shaping up and our glamour and movie industry opening up. I want to be there…either to show support or be a part of it some way," the former Miss Sri Lanka said. Back home, Jacqueline would be next seen in Sajid Khan's Housefull 2 which has ensemble star cast including Akshay Kumar, John Abraham, Asin, Zarine Khan, Rishi Kapoor, Randhir Kapoor, Mithun Chakraborty and Boman Irani. The film releases on April 5. — PTI

 

 

Out in the open

Rani Mukerji and Aditya Chopra's long time romance is one of the worst-kept secrets in Bollywood. Rani was in London recently to celebrate her birthday with Aditya Chopra and his family.

Aditya Chopra is in London with his father and SRK and Katrina along with the crew of their untitled romantic film. So Rani flew there to celebrate her birthday a few days ago. She took a break from the film (Aiyaa) she is shooting. A source says, "For a few years now, Rani and Aditya have been celebrating all their important occasions together. Rani also went on a family holiday recently with the Chopras and they were spotted at the airport. For her birthday, the couple went out for dinner along with Adi's parents and Shah Rukh Khan. They are all close friends and like family."

The source continues, "The Chopras are staying at a villa in London. Shah Rukh and Katrina have their own pads in London and are enjoying family-time with their respective families. Rani has now begun bonding with Aditya's parents and they have given their approval to them so they might get married by the end of this year. Rani even visited the sets of the film. Rani has never admitted to her relationship with Aditya and Aditya has been out of the spotlight for very many years. He is paranoid about being photographed too. Now that they have decided to get married this year, Rani is becoming more open about her equation with the Chopras!" Cheers to one more romance and a wedding in Bollywood! — HRM 

 

 

Back in action

Akshay Kumar took a well-thought break from kicking and boxing in films, but now is back to the action genre with Rowdy Rathore. The Khiladi of Bollywood says he is absolutely geared for the new innings.

"It's been some two to three years that I have stayed away from action movies. It's because when my son (Aarav) was two years old, I was scared that what if something happened to me, that's why I was off action," Akshay said.

The 44-year-old established himself as the khiladi of Bollywood thanks to a slew of daredevil stunts in action films like Khiladi, Khiladiyon Ka Khiladi, Waqt Hamara Hai and Mohra.

Starting 2000, he tried his comic timing in the hit movie Hera Pheri, and others like Garam Masala, Phir Hera Pheri, Bhagam Bhaag, Welcome, Singh Is Kinng, Housefull and Tees Maar Khan.

But with Rowdy Rathore, directed by Prabhu Deva, he promises to be back in the khiladi avatar.

"Every father would understand the emotion behind the decision of withdrawing from action because nothing else matters for parents than the children's happiness and well-being.

"But now my son is nine years old. God forbid if something happens to me, he can do something. So I am back to action, and absolutely ready for another innings," said Akshay, who adorns the cover of the latest issue of a celebrity's publication.

For now the actor is busy promoting Sajid Khan's Housefull 2, releasing 
April 5. — IANS

 

 

The costume draman

Pretty Woman star Julia Roberts pulled a muscle in her thigh while filming new movie Mirror Mirror after struggling to move in one particularly heavy costume. The 44-year-old actress stars as the Evil Queen in the fantasy comedy and was often weighed down by her elaborate regal dresses.

The bronze-coloured outfit, which she wears while sitting on her throne in the film, weighed a hefty 60 pounds and Roberts says she had to get ready for the shot in a specially-erected tent.

"I had a tent on the stage that I went in to dress because that dress doesn't go into any modern doorway and that dress weighed, I think, 60 pounds. I actually pulled a thigh muscle trying to chastise Nathan, turning really quickly," she said. — PTI

 

 

Kim Kardashian wants to buy Beckingham Palace?

Reality TV star Kim Kardashian reportedly wants to buy David and Victoria Beckham's UK home as a European base for her family.

The 31-year-old reportedly has a viewing lined up at the 18 million pound British home of Beckhams, reported a publication online. The couple, who relocated to Los Angeles in 2007 so that David could play football for LA Galaxy, are said to be selling the 17-acre estate in a bid to sever ties with UK. A source said "That when Kim's family isn't there, she hopes to rent the place out to fans of the Beckhams." — PTI

Not inked anymore

Russell Brand has got his matching Sanskrit tattoo with estranged wife Katy Perry "permanently removed". After the British comedian filed for divorce, he has since decided to have the etching removed. —ANI

chatter box
It’s party time

Additi Gupta With the wedding of Yash (Gurmeet Choudhary) and Aarti (Kratika Sengar) around the corner, actor Additi Gupta did a sexy dance number at the bachelor party in Zee’s Punar Vivah. Not only did she enjoy shaking a leg, her co-stars also joined her post the shoot as the mood on the sets was like a party.

Finally, Gopi gets aggressive

On Saath Nibhana Saathiya, the docile Gopi (Jia Maanek) will confront Rashi (Rucha Hasabnis) shocking everyone. Rashi has created a rift between Kokila and Hetal but Gopi will stop her. It will be an interesting change to see Gopi fight back.

In festive spirits

To celebrate festival of Gudi Padwa, Dr. Amol Kolhe from Colors’ Veer Shivaji said, “During my childhood, the charm of Gudi Padwa was completely different. I would team up with other kids from my locality and we would go leaf-picking to bring home some Neem and Mango leaves to make the Gudi. On the morning of Gudi Padwa, the entire family would get-together and worship the Gudi as sun rose over the horizon.”

 

 

Please don’t stop the music…

	Shake a leg: A still from D3Channel [v]’s Dil Dostii Dance stars will shake a leg on their favourite professor’s wedding to the best shaadi number of the tinsel town. With the moves of Madhuri Dixit and boyish style of Salman, the evergreen song – Jhuthe Do Paise Lo (Hum Aapke Hai Kaun) will be replicated by dancing stars of D3. Other songs will be Aaja aaja, Yeh Raat, Ma da Laadla and more.

In the Confession room...

Ali Mercchant, who recently appeared on Life OK’s Sach Ka Saamna was nervous before shooting the episode that spoke about his numerous facets of life. He felt the need to clear controversies surrounding him and is glad the episode was received well by his family, friends and even ex-wife Sara Khan.

 A scene from SSK Cats out of the bag 

In Colors’ Sasural Simar Ka (SSK), Roli (Avika Gor) and Simar (Dipika Samson) will soon prove that Manoranjan Mousi (Nimisha Vakharia) was the one who plotted to create a rift between the sisters. Her truth will be out before the Bhardwaj family.

Angry young men

Sony’s Saas Bina Sasural has seen changes since Ganga Devi (Gopi Desai) entered the show.  Now things will get difficult between Ved (Rishi Khurana) and Tej (Ravi Dubey) as they will argue about their wives. Ved’s wife Nitika  (Shruti Bapna) works while Toasty (Aishwarya Sakhuja) does all household chores.

 

 

Successful run

Ayub Khan He is a known face on TV and has numerous films to his credit too. Juggling between films and TV, actor Ayub Khan is enjoying both worlds. He shares his experience of shooting for Uttaran.

Your take on leap in the Colors’ daily soap Uttaran.

I have enjoyed playing Jogi Thakur on Uttaran, which has given me immense popularity. When people meet me they call me by the character’s names and my family finds it amusing. The character believes in justice and is a powerful one, which is why I continued my association with show. 

Why haven’t you done more shows or played lead characters?

I juggle between films and TV, so more shows on hand never seems viable. Moreover most leads on TV are 20 something guys and I never got the chance. If something interesting comes up, I will surely take it up.

What do you think of Ram Kapoor and Mohnish Behl playing leading men?

It is a great change. Both are tremendously talented actors. I hope more mature stories are made on TV, giving viewers a good range of shows.

What else are you working on?

I used to shoot for more than half a month for Uttaran and with the leap it might increase a bit. I am in talks for another show, which will have to be managed. I will let you know once the project is signed.

Are you happy being on TV?

When I joined TV I had no idea of the way it functioned. Being on TV has been a great experience as it has a wider reach. One has to work at a fast pace and for long hours.

Are any film projects happening?

With most of the time spend working on Uttaran I haven’t had time to work on films. But I am looking at changing that soon.

Astro Turf
p Khurrana

ARIES: Relationships would be in the limelight today. There may be some conflicts due to ego, pride, envy or self-centeredness on either party’s side. Work hard to retain the integrity and respect in your relationship. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 2

TAURUS: Focusing on your budget; plan a long-term savings strategy. Don’t let the monotony of work get to you; there would be interesting tasks later in the evening. Watch your sleep, diet and exercise routine. Tarot message: Play your cards close to your chest. Lucky colour: Red Magic number: 42

GEMINI: Love and romance in on cards. The situation at home would be peaceful. In certain relationships, you would need to be extra patient. Investments would grow at a steady rate. Your future plans would look achievable. Tarot message: Take no chances despite the assurance of people. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 52

CANCER: “The queen of cups” says that communication would continue to be vital. There may be some delays and postponements, especially before the middle of the day. At work, take care of current projects. Tarot message: Don’t reveal your plan of action to anyone. Lucky colour: Royal blue. Magic number: 29

LEO: Have faith in your abilities and everything will be possible. Relationships will become stronger and so will your financial position. Pay attention to your health and do not let the festive season take its toll. Tarot message: You need to be creative if you want to retain your grip over your business. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 33

VIRGO: Many of you may form new relationships and associations that would benefit you, both personally and professionally. Finances look good and there may be some windfall towards the end of the day.Tarot message: A positive and caring attitude heals old wounds. Lucky colour: Pale yellow. Magic number: 65

LIBRA: Lovers, friends and partners would be aggressive and demanding, wanting to know your whereabouts and the reasons for your behaviour. At work, be vigilant and alert to developments. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid delays that come your way. Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 60.

SCORPIO: Your mental, physical and emotional states would be in equilibrium and endow you with a sense of peace. Your confidence would be on a high and at work; you would be open to taking on more challenges. Tarot message: Strive for perfection at work. Lucky colour: Golden brown Magic number: 36

SAGITTARIUS: The increase in the flow of money would continue, especially since Venus would enter your sign. Professionally, you would be able to come up with some creative ideas. Tarot message: Be sure of involving yourself in a new project. Lucky colour: Crimson Magic number: 50

CAPRICORN: The time is just right to put everything in perspective and remove the element of chaos that has been prevalent for some time. Be on the guard against legal hassles and errors due to Mercury retrograde. Tarot message: Do not leave things to chance. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 57

AQUARIUS: There would be a flow of ideas and emotions. You would be able to get closer to your partner as well as other family members. You would earn the respect and admiration of co-workers. Tarot message: Don’t be too certain about obtaining a clearance. Lucky colour: White Magic number: 63

PISCES: Business people may face some conflict of interest with partners. At home, you may have to help out a younger relative with some work. In the matter of investments, avoid speculating. Tarot message: You need to think more about long-term interests. Lucky colour: Silver grey Magic number: 4

The Year Ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is March 28...

Your birth on the 28th day of March modifies your life path by increasing your capability to function and succeed in the business world. You have the skills to work very well with others; thanks to the 2 and 8 energies combining in this date. There is a marked increase in organisational, managerial, and administrative abilities. You are efficient and handle money very well. You have a wonderful combination of being good at both the broad strokes and the fine details. Governed by number 1 and the Sun, you are original, active, responsible, trustworthy and a very simple person. You are highly talented and fond of accepting challenges. You enjoy excellent relationships with Leos and Sagittarians, but find it very difficult to cope with Scorpio, Virgo, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn star signs. The family front remains moderately. This year, long-awaited promotions and monetary benefits will finally be yours. Financially you will face some problems initially, but things will become better later in the year. In this period you’ll be audacious and won’t be afraid of anything, not even an angry boss who has been checking up on you off late. Your loved one will show you the intensity of his or her feelings without asking for anything in exchange.

Employees should exercise certain self-control to avoid dangerous conflicts with colleagues and bosses. Your ability to ‘spot trouble’ in advance may save you time, grief and money. Those who are engaged in a job should start thinking about their responsibilities now. Help from some unexpected source comes as a pleasant surprise. Venus is bound to get you plenty of attention. Mood: Cheerful. Compatible signs: Leo, Taurus Lucky colours: Gold, yellow. Lucky days: Monday and Saturday. Lucky numbers: 2, 5, 11, 15, 25 Lucky gem: Bloodstone red coral, star ruby Lucky flower: Christmas rose Suggestion on birthday: Kanya Pujan.

Akshaye Khanna (March 28, 1975, Mumbai), son of actor Vinod Khanna, is very famous for his well-known dimpled smile in Bollywood. He is very shy and introvert person, yet very friendly. After making his debut in Himalaya Putra (1997), Khanna worked in several successful movies, including Border, Taal, Aa ab Lot Chale Dil Chahta Hai et al. Akshaye’s stardom comes in 2015. 





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