Sea of vibrance
Songs, cinema…theatre, Ila Arun is someone who has excelled in all three. She continues her long and eventful journey with the play Mareechika, based on Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen's literary work Lady From The Sea
Nonika Singh

The world knows her as the voice behind the raunchy Choli Ke Peeche Kya. They probably also know her stellar acts in movies like Jodhaa Akbar and West is West, but singer-actor-composer Ila Arun who in her own words, "I am doing many things" is also a very serious theatre person.

In Chandigarh with her play Mareechika, it's this passion that spills forth. So she and the famed Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen, on whose literary work Lady From The Sea her play is based, may seem like polarised extremes. But as the woman who has breathed a new life into Ibsen's tale, she stands proud.

Candidly she admits she knew little about Ibsen except his Doll's House. As she browsed through all of his works, this one struck a chord. Adapting a story of sea on to Rajasthani milieu may have seemed a harakiri of sorts. Till she realised once the desert of her homeland was a sea! Thereafter she, who has not only written the play but also co-directed it, remarks, "All fell into place." Many a Rajasthani folk traditions seemed to gel effortlessly with the narrative. She talks enthusiastically about the folk forms that she has used in the play, particularly Babuji Ka Phad, which she has transformed and even called it Ibsenji Ka Phad, a scroll that lists our Ibsen's creative journey. So even though she has added more characters and even a tale to the main storyline, Norwegians, who are incredibly sensitive to the great playwright, simply loved it. So did audiences in India, not just in Rajasthan.

Theatre, incidentally, occupies prime space in her packed itinerary. Though in the near future she will be seen in Kalpana Lajmi and Shyam Benegal's films, yet whenever theatre and her other commitments clash she insists that she never ever cancels her theatre shows. For she believes, "If they really want me, they will wait for me." Not that she runs down cinema, which she calls a very powerful medium that has taken her to the masses. "Acting and singing anyway," she feels, "are enjoined and singers make natural actors for real singing is not possible without expression."

The dichotomy between thought-provoking medium of theatre and the demands of cinema that thrives on item numbers don't bother her at all. "If a film requires me to sing Choli ke peeche, so be it. But at heart I am a different person, who is sensitive and who responds to women's problems." Her heart also beats strong for Indian crafts and tradition.

Any wonder, attired in a tasteful ensemble with matching jewellery she stands as an epitome of tradition and crafts. None of it, of course, stops her from being part of live music shows (she has just returned from one in Canada) as well as the group Rani and the Rowdy Rajas. Sensitive, rowdy, raunchy and above all an irrepressible unstoppable performer…is what makes Ila Arun a force to reckon with.

In mom's steps?

"Like mother like daughter. If mom is a banjaran, I guess I am an urban traveller," quips Ishitta Arun, Ila Arun's equally talented daughter, who plays the lead role in the play. For someone whose first baby cry was recorded on stage, "working with Mom and Raina uncle" always meant the bar was raised high. Expectations of being her mother's daughter don't bog her down. Rather she looks at the positive side of it. Runners-up of reality show Desi Girls, she wouldn't mind doing similar shows any number of times. Bollywood too is on her radar and she has acted in a couple of movies. But she wouldn't lose sleep over it and would rather focus on doing meaningful work and grow "as an actor on stage."

Baisakhi gift

Ila Arun might call her play Mareechika, which is to be staged at the Tagore Theatre on Thursday, a Baisakhi gift for Punjabis as it comes gratis (free entry passes), her co-director KK Raina is not amused. A NSD graduate and a powerful actor in his own right, he wonders aloud "Why should people come and see me without buying a ticket, when they can do the same for cinema?" For theatre too is a craft that he has learnt and honed over the years. By the way, his association with Ila goes back in time and he has directed all the plays of the group Surna.

nonika@tribunemail.com

ACTING on instinct
Actors Aakash Bharadwaj, Manish Khanna and Bharti Sharma share their side of the telly tale
Sabia Talwar

Bharti Sharma
Bharti Sharma

Actors Aakash Bharadwaj, Manish Khanna and Bharti Sharma from Mumbai, who made a brief stop-over at Chandigarh, had two common things to share with us. One they were on their way to Manali for a common project, and two they are in the industry with no background in acting whatsoever!

Akkash Bharadwaj, a name not easy to search on the web, shared screen space with Shah Rukh Khan in the movie Pardes as Mahima Chaudhary's cousin brother. Says Akkash, "My real name is Akash Singh and someone suggested that if I change it to Akkash Bharadwaj, fame will follow; I believe in the science behind all this." Not many know that Jun Fan became Bruce Lee and AS Dileep Kumar turned to AR Rahman!

Having a mother like Asha Singh, sitar player who bagged the title of voice of Meena Kumari, Akkash was well-trained in literally every performing art. "At the age of three, I started mimicking, comparing, singing and dancing on stage. I was a crowd-puller," says Akkash. He played Jaya Pradha's son in the movie Sur Sangam, which was a remake of Telegu film Sankarabharanam directed by renowned director K. Viswanath. I never planned to join the industry, but it was destined for me." From playing Chota Balram in BR Chopra's Mahabharata to the famous character of Bobby Arora in Zee TV's Hasratein and Deepak in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, Akkash has done more than 100 serials and many more live shows in India as well as abroad. "I was not a star-kid and belonged to a middle class family, so I was more than overwhelmed to work in any of the projects," says Akkash. And what is his advice for the youngsters? "Never compromise with hardwork; one must live and love his passion to the fullest," says Akkash.

All this while, one person patiently hears the conversation — Manish Khanna, the bad guy of the TV industry. Says Manish, "I came to Mumbai in 1994 and started my career as assistant director with Gogi Anand. Later, I worked in the serial Jai Hanuman where I played Lakshman." Apart from the Star Plus' serial Kahin Kissi Roz, he has done more than 100 serials and also Bollywood movies like Zameen, My Wife's Murder, Julie and Bhojpuri movie Bigul. Is he happy portraying grey characters? "I love playing negative roles and they are not that easy. Somewhere there is a connect that the audience has with a particular shade of an actor," say Manish.

He has also forayed into direction now. "I have directed Star Plus' serials Ruk Jaana Nahi and Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behena Hai; so I know that it is difficult being the captain of the ship," says Manish. For the aspiring villain-actors, Manish adds: "Don't try to act, just be natural in front of the camera."

It's hard to believe that a woman will wait so patiently for her turn! Bharti Sharma, who is part of Zee TV's Mrs Kaushik Ki Paanch Bahuen, says, "I belong to Gujarat, became a Gladrags model in 2004, and then did a lot of fashion shows." Bharti debuted with Gujarati movie Uchi Medina Ucha Kangra and got nominated for the best actress award. She also forayed into Bollywood with movies like Bhola in Bollywood and Kuch Masti Kuch Khel. "I always wanted to become an actor because I felt that recognition as a model is very hard to get."

sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com

KING-size fun
IPL is back and so is the gala mood. Here’s catching up with Kings XI Punjab's team captain Adam Gilchrist, players David Hussey and Piyush Chawla…
Jasmine Singh

You don't need to wait for an invitation to enjoy precious moments in life; good times generally come calling by! For Kings XI Punjab's team captain Adam Gilchrist, players David Hussey and Piyush Chawla, lighter moments come off the field during the making of Kingfisher television commercial at the JW Marriot on Wednesday.

As they make funny faces, filling their mouth with air and bursting it in the Oo la la la le o jingle, we catch their child-like nervousness and excitement. They are not professional jingle singers and we don't expect them to be, as long as they are giving us great fours and sixes on the field! The trio shares what it is to be doing a little bit off the field.

David Hussey takes the lead. He blushes, "I am nervous facing the camera," he tries not to sound like a kid singing a poem at a school's annual function! "I am enjoying the video shoot, but I have slight problem looking into the camera," says David. Off-camera and off-field celebrities are generally more relaxed. And so is David Hussey. "I don't party much, I am a family man and I like to chill out with my family and friends." David has taken a liking to a couple of things here. No prizes for guessing! "I am enjoying dal makhani and rasgulla a lot," his eyes get wider.

Adam Gilchrist is amused looking at two of his team-mates chilling out and he doesn't mind it a bit! In fact, he joins in. "I like the jingle, it is catchy." He has one more reason to be singing it. "My elder son came for the IPL last year, this time I am joined by my four kids," he says, sharing how all have different liking for sports. "One enjoys football, other likes cricket and one is a hockey freak," he proudly reveals.

Adam falls in the category of a family man, "I am handling the family well, being a father saves me from many chores," he says. Adam is enjoying every bit of the Kingfisher television commercial. We can see an alternate career here! Adam takes the mike, "I have been growing Indian Sandalwood trees in Australia for a long time. These are better than Australian sandalwood trees and I would be enjoying the commercial harvest for the first time. The idea is to process and export the product," he says before passing on the mike to Piyush Chawla. Oo la la la le o….it is fun shooting for the commercial. We did a little Oo la la with the rest of the team members. Good times here, it is adventurous and lot of fun," says Piyush in a manner interviews are supposed to be given!

Tuned in

Television viewers will enjoy the new television commercial during the ongoing cricket season, which features 23 different players from six teams singing the infectious tune of Kingfisher. Kingfisher lovers could even make their own Oo la la la le o version by playing the Thirst Choir: Good Times Cheer Game (Facebook application on kingfisherworld.com).

jasmine@tribunemail.com

punjabi tadka
The enigma called Hans Raj
Jasmine Singh

He is still the most grounded singer ever and despite the accolades and fame he has received in India and on international platform, Sufi singer Hans Raj Hans still has a child-like excitement, and butterflies in stomach when he goes for a live performance. His number Eh jo sili sili aandi hai hawa touched hearts. The introvert singer reveals another side to himself.

My harmonium and I

My harmonium is not just an instrument, it is my friend, guide and lover. Every time I touch it, it gives me a new experience, it renders new notes. It takes me to a beautiful journey, which I have shared with it for ages.

I am not superstitious

No, I am not superstitious. I believe in doing riyaaz and delivering my best. I talk whatever I have to at a function, I don't say things uselessly.

The best compliment ever

I was born and brought up in a family with meager income. For the first time when I performed at a school function, the guest there (some VIP's wife) hugged me, praised my curly locks and told me that I sang really well. That was the first time someone praised me and it gave a new meaning to my life.

Kind of audience I don't like

Some people pay me well to perform at events where people are either talking on the phone or discussing business. These are the people I fail to understand. And then there are people I immediately connect to. They understand my pain and what I am singing.

Wish I could sing along

I have collaborated with Nusrat fateh Ali Khan, but I wish I could get a chance to sing with Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhonsle. But I am honoured that Lataji invited me for her birthday, she heard me sing and appreciated it.

I believe in destiny

I firmly believe in it. I am a singer because of my destiny. I don't want to think what I could have been, had I not been a singer.

My favourite song

Chupke chupke raat din…I listen to it all the time, and it leaves me with a new feeling each time.

Coming soon
In letter and spirit
Adab Foundation organises a three-day literary extravaganza

The members of Adab Foundation are all set for the fest.
Write thing: The members of Adab Foundation are all set for the fest.

The first Chandigarh Literature Festival that kicks off on the beats of Baisakhi dhol this April 13 at the Government Museum and Art Gallery-10, will bring some of the finest Indian talent to City Beautiful.

On the inaugural day, a tribute will be paid to the region by honouring acclaimed Punjabi poet Surjit Pattar. The three-day literary extravaganza will see participation among others of Sanjay Chauhan who is the scriptwriter of the immensely successful film Paan Singh Tomar. He will talk about the trend of 'realism in scriptwriting for films'.

Renowned TV Journalist Ravish Kumar will talk about the trend of micro fiction. Acclaimed theatre and film actor Piyush Mishra and Chandigarh's theatre personality Neelam Man Singh will discuss music in theatre. At the festival there will be a slew of big wigs from the literary world, like Lalit Kumar, the creator of Kavita Kosh, the portal which is a treasure trove of poetry and shayri in different Indian languages. —TNS

Master Chef
Baisakhi bounty!
Kandla Nijhowne

When a festival draws near, I'm already drooling in anticipation, conjuring up some delicious goodies I can cook! Baisakhi is round the corner, so here's my excuse already! We have bid adieu to hot halwas and syrupy gulab-jamuns. Now, as we turn on the coolers, we automatically desire cooler sweets too!

Coconut ladoos are my all-time 'quickie', light in texture, mildly sweet, and requiring a mere handful of ingredients. They are delight to dig your teeth into. Try to use fresh scraped coconut. The desiccated sawdust available in the market is......well....sawdust! Innovation can lead to many variations. Roll the ladoos in coloured sprinkles to please the little ones! You can smuggle in some good health by adding a half a cup of dry roasted oats into the mix, or studding them with chopped nuts. Another option is to coat the shaped ladoos with a mixture of cocoa powder and icing sugar.

(Nijhowne is a Chandigarh-based culninary expert)

Coconut ladoos

2½ cup fresh, shredded coconut (brown skin discarded)
1 cup condensed milk
½ tsp cardamom powder
½ cup desiccated coconut

Method

n Set up a heavy, flat pan on heat and add the fresh coconut to it.
n Stir rapidly on low heat till you smell its nutty flavour, taking care that it doesn't get scorched.
n By then, the coconut should also have become somewhat dry and pale brown in colour.
n Pour in the condensed milk and stir, ensuring that the coconut mixture does not stick to the bottom of the pan.
n Continue stirring till the mixture thickens. About 20 minutes. The mixture shall thicken further after it cools.
n Add the cardamom powder, mix thoroughly, shape into walnut sized balls and roll in desiccated coconut.

Note: If you so desire, avoid the condensed milk and substitute it with full cream milk and sugar. In this case, the cooking time will increase since you will need to reduce the milk and coconut mixture on a low flame.

star track
Hopping onto Hollywood

Poorna Jagannathan
Straight talk: Poorna Jagannathan

Poorna Jagannathan may not have a Bollywood film but her Hollywood career has opened up to new avenues recently. Here she talks about her life.

Newer vistas

I had the time of my life shooting with Jane Fonda, Gwyneth Paltrow and Tim Robbins. Jane Fonda has an amazing zest for life and just watching her is a gift. She makes everybody laugh all the time. Gwyneth is very down-to-earth and sweet. I am a part of the first shot she directed.

Changing scenarios

Usually, Indians play doctors and cab drivers and students and Hispanic actors play cops or drug dealers in Hollywood movies. But now it is changing and this change is attributed to Slumdog Millionaire. I can audition for roles that are different and fun. People recognise Irrfan Khan and Freida Pinto and of course, Anil Kapoor!

Wish list

An actor is an actor irrespective of the films. In Hollywood, there is a lot of respect given to the script writers and the script. Here, it is still a star-driven industry and writers are not well recognised. I would love to work with directors like Anusha Rizvi, Kiran Rao, Vishal Bhardwaj, Amole Gupte, and the like.

Fashion fever

I am an actor and am slightly famous so people tend to check out what I wear. I am all about comfort! People call me a lot of things, pertaining to my fashion sense and it is fine. Bohemian is a kind word for me! I like the way Sarah Jessica Parker and Deepika Padukone dress because they hold their own in their outfits!Vidya Balan

Super women’s club

Ekta Kapoor and Vidya Balan are the most powerful women in Bollywood. They stand shoulder to shoulder with the boys on the power list of a magazine. We think Vidya will grace the cover too in a new avatar. This is all due to the success of The Dirty Picture.

Making waves: Vidya Balan

Amitabh Bachchan Cause for concern

Two months after his surgery, Amitabh Bachchan has fallen ill again and is suffering from excruciating pain in his stomach since the past couple of days. We wish him a speedy recovery.


Speedy recovery: Amitabh Bachchan

Madhuri is back in action!

Madhuri Dixit-Nene is back in action. She has signed her first film after moving back to the country last November.

The actress has signed on the sequel of Vishal Bhardwaj’s Ishqiya, which is titled Dedh Ishqiya, to be directed by Abhishek Choubey, who also made the Vidya Balan-Naseeruddin Shah-Arshad Warsi starrer.

“I am back in action. I am doing Dedh Ishqiya whereas Jhalak is right around the corner. But there is more to come!” she said. In the meantime, Madhuri is also rumoured to have been approached for a dance period film directed by choreographer Remo D’Souza.

What’s in a name?Celina Jaitley

By now we all know that Celina Jaitley and her husband have started Twitter accounts for their twin boys and tweet on their behalf. Obviously! We think that is a pretty jobless thing to do and children shouldn’t be online at such a young age. Their names are Viraaj and Winston.
Celina Jaitley

Cast of Kya Super Kool Hai Hum First impression

The first look of Kya Super Kool Hai Hum was launched with the star cast in attendance. It doesn’t seem like a great film. What are they smiling about?

Thumbs down: Cast of Kya Super Kool Hai Hum

Imran Khan The Black Jack

Imran Khan has brown hair and a brown beard. He now has to colour his brown beard black everyday for Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola.


Colour correction: Imran Khan

A southern journey Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

While filmmakers are lining up to sign her and work according to her schedule, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan might make her comeback post childbirth in a South Indian film instead of a Bollywood one. A woman-centric role has got her excited and she might make an announcement soon.

Second innings: Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

John Abraham Action replay

John Abraham is on a roll. He might do Bodyguard director Siddique’s next film. It is yet another commercial entertainer with the same style of action and John is good at action. He has also done Force which is a remake of a South Indian film.




On a roll:
John Abraham

The five commandments
Farah Khan shares the tips & tricks of choreography

Farah Khan
Star Advice: Farah Khan

Before she became a hit film director, Farah Khan was a choreographer. In fact, she has also choreographed the super hit Desi Girl from Dostana and the item songs in SRK’s Billu Barber. More recently, her choreography in Housefull 2 has caught on and there has also been Sheila Ki Jawani. Her steps seem simple and easy to follow. The National Award winner tells you how to be a good choreographer.

n It is important that your personality and uniqueness is reflected in your choreography. Only then will your work come alive and stand out.
n Nurture your talent. Believe in yourself and be passionate about your work.
n Work very hard so that you are indispensable. I put my heart and soul into the project with the motive that after working with me, filmmakers won’t want to work with someone else.
n Don’t copy anybody else. Be original and don’t be afraid to try out new ideas and concepts. If your work looks like someone else’s, no one will take notice of it.
n You need to be a good dancer and a good teacher and motivator too. Enjoy what you do; it shouldn’t be a chore for you. Don’t be afraid of taking chances and trying something new.

Dedicated to pink

Pop star Nicki Minaj wants to buy a mansion in Buckinghamshire, England and paint it pink. The Trinidad-born rapper is reportedly so enamoured with Britain that she wants to settle down there, reported a website.

“Nicki loves England for the heritage and the countryside. She has been scouring the web for a place. Her inspiration is the pink palace 60s movie star Jayne Mansfield had in Hollywood,” a source said.

In keeping with the title of her new album Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded, she is also said to be planning to install a pink, heart-shaped swimming pool, buy a pink Rolls-Royce for the driveway and have a special area built to house flamingos. Fames for her whacky outfits, Minaj is often compared to fellow eccentric Lady Gaga, but said the comparisons can get a bit tedious.

“We are in completely different lanes. Gaga’s a fantastic artist, you know, she paved her way. She’s opened her own lane. But I think that I have my own lane, and we never cross. Ever,” she said. — PTI

Starting young
Former Spice Girl Victoria Beckham says that her sons have formed their own band

Victoria Bekham
parental guidance: Victoria Bekham

The fashion designer, 37, who has three sons Brooklyn, Romeo and Cruz as well as daughter Harper with soccer ace David Beckham, said they regularly perform songs while in the house and before they go to bed, reported a publication online.

Brooklyn, 13, is known to be learning guitar, while Romeo, 10, enjoys playing on drums and ballet fan Cruz, seven, has become the group’s break dancer. “As they go to bed the boys break into a chorus of Walk Like A Man. Cruz is very good at break dancing as well. He spins on his head,” she said. Victoria, says that her boys have got her fashion sense from her. — PTI

My opinions always get me into trouble: Megan Fox

Hollywood beauty Megan Fox says her past comments have got her into trouble. The Transformers star said she is now learning not to be so vocal during interviews, a website reported.

“I’ve paid the price for being very open about my feelings... I’m a passionate individual and sometimes when I have strong feelings about a subject I feel the need to express myself. But I’ve learned that it’s better to hold back a bit, that the world doesn’t necessary need or want to know what I think about some matters. I still believe in speaking my mind. I think that’s a good quality even if sometimes it has gotten me into trouble,” she said. — PTI

chatter box
Summer secrets

Riddhi Dogra
Sun block: Riddhi Dogra

Riddhi Dogra aka Priya from Star Plus’ Maryaada dislikes summers and shares tips to beat the heat and keep it cool this summer.

Best and worst

The best part about summer is that I get to wear light and comfortable clothes. The worst part is the unbearable heat. Winter is my favourite season, so you can just imagine how much I hate the heat.

Head-to-toe

I love wearing dresses and shorts with tunics or ganjis. Basically anything that is loose and comfortable will do. I try to avoid wearing jeans during this season. Applying sunscreen before leaving home is a must. I also use a shampoo that protects my hair from heat and humidity. It is also important to wear sunglasses to protect the eyes.

Cool bites

I make sure to include cooling agents like cucumber or curds in my diet. I love curds as I am a fan of milk products. I love having chocolate ice-cream, actually I love chocolate in any form. I am also addicted to cold coffee and have it every day during summer. I like cherries and watermelon.

Holiday destination

I would love to holiday in Srinagar. I belong to Jammu but I have never been to Kashmir and am really looking forward to visit it.

Memories of yore

My childhood memories of summer are the mangoes that we used to eat. I used to live in Delhi, so we used to go to places like Nainital and Mussorie for a holiday. I have fond memories of playing in the snow and building snowmen.

Step out

My advice is—take a vacation . You cannot escape the heat in a place like Mumbai and even if you turn on the air conditioner, you are increasing pollution. — HRM

New role...

After Nandish Sandhu and Rashmi Desai quit Colors’ Uttaran,  Vikas Bhalla will step into play Veer in the show. Post the leap Veer has been shown to be married again but has no affection for his new wife while he is dad of two kids.Karan Johar

Acting bug

On NDTV India’s Issi Ka Naam Zindagi Karan Johar shared the experience DDLJ and Shah Rukh Khan. When asked if he is still keen on acting, Karan expressed his deep desire to act in a film.

Karan Johar

Mauli Dave Turning poetess

Singer Mauli Dave of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa fame was last seen in Comedy Circus. She is busy writing poems and songs and will bring an album out. “I write poems and songs which gives me immense satisfaction. I am doing a lot of stage shows and also jazz sessions”.



Music & Lyrics:
Mauli Dave

Ex-citing phase

Pooja Kanwal In Na Bole Tum Na Maine Kuch Kaha, while Mohan (Kunal Karan Kapoor) and Megha (Akanksha Singh) have become friends, in the upcoming episodes Pooja Kanwal will enter the show as Rashmi, Mohan’s ex who married a rich guy. Seeing a dejected Mohan, Megha will pretend to be Mohan’s wife. Let’s see what happens next in this cute drama.



New entry:
Pooja Kanwal

On defensive mode

After the intimate scene in Bade Acche Lagte Hain, Sakshi Tanwar now has spoken that her scene didn’t start any trend on TV. She strongly believes that kissing scenes have always been part of the television industry. Her strong defence also suggests that people always have the option of changing channels if they find anything unsuitable in one particular show.

Playing by the new rules

Usha Nadkarni, popular for her role in Pavitra Rishta, will be seen playing sutradhar for Color’s new show Kairi’s weekend special recapping the whole week in her characteristic style.

Baby’s day outBarkha Bisht

Barkha Bisht brought her six-month-old daughter Meira while supporting the cause of girl child in an event organised by Shashi and Anu Ranjan. She claims to be a proud mom of a daughter and said she couldn’t have asked for more.

Proud Mommy: Barkha Bisht

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Love, celebration and romance are on the cards. You are generous and giving in family and personal relationships. If things are not going quite as well as you’d planned, just remember that being patient will help. Tarot message: You shall prevent a lot of trouble by taking timely action. Lucky colour: Yellow. Lucky number: 25

TAURUS: Try to keep your confidence level high. Leave things to simmer under the surface. If you feel one close relationship is tense, then you need to be honest. Work seems easier to handle. Tarot message: Arrogance and pride will not be rewarded. Lucky colour: Orange. Lucky number: 36

GEMINI: You do need friends around today to make you feel loved and appreciated. You want protection and advice about the future. Beware of over indulgence in food or drink. Don’t confront loved ones. Tarot message: Don’t read too much into ordinary situations. Lucky colour: Red. Lucky number: 59

CANCER: Professional entertainment and communication flow well. You are blessed with spiritual insight and clarity of vision. It is not the right time for commitments. Tarot message: Don’t get embroiled in ventures where returns are spread over a large period of time. Lucky colour: Sea green. Lucky number: 40

LEO: Be wary about making new joint commitments of a financial nature. Wait till the end of the day before making serious decisions. You may be heading for a permanent relationship. Tarot message: Do not cover up your own mistakes and keep the emotions aside. Lucky colour: Brown. Lucky number: 33

VIRGO: A happy event calls for a celebration. Do not hesitate to make settlements and compromises in business matters. Essentially a busy day; rewards are received for efforts made . Be light, playful and remain free. Tarot message: Do not let anyone take advantage of you. Lucky colour: Metallic grey. Lucky number: 45

LIBRA: Your relationships are especially affectionate and friendly today. A journey is on the cards. Loving relationships and warm personal contacts are emphasized. You walk down memory lane with a friend. Tarot message: Must learn to accept responsibility for self and others. Lucky colour: Black. Lucky number: 39.

SCORPIO: An excellent day to take stock of your life, to see how you are limiting and to determine your next steps. Relationships at work progress well. Expressing your emotions and appreciation will strengthen the bonds between your partner. Tarot message: Take time before reacting. Lucky colour: Golden. Lucky number: 62

SAGITTARIUS: You will be focused and alert at work and this will enable you to get through your tasks without putting in much effort. Love life will be good. Tarot message: You will need to learn how to cope better with success; its demand and its limitations. Lucky colour: Electric pink. Lucky number: 36

CAPRICORN: Forgive a friend for an error of judgment despite losses incurred in a speculation. You may be in a sensitive frame of mind and could overreact to perceived criticism. Trust and go with flow rather than swim against it. Tarot message: Boost your confidence with positive thinking. Lucky colour: Peach. Lucky number: 27

AQUARIUS: You will be enthusiastic about your assignments. You spend time in creative activity. Work has taken its toll; as you have been totally engrossed in projects and careless about finances. Tarot message: Focus new light on your emotional and spiritual place. Lucky colour: Crimson. Lucky number: 46

PISCES: You will be energetic and confident about your abilities. Students need to focuson their studies. Love leads to lasting commitments. Beware of rash decision that you can make in the evening. Tarot message: You are on the right track. Don’t allow others to interfere. Lucky colour: Fuchsia. Lucky number: 32

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is April 12...

You might receive false information, which will cause mental pressure. You will be in the mood to travel and spend money. Your extravagant lifestyle could cause tensions at home so avoid late nights and spending too much. Your superior’s reward you with promotions or job enhancements. Your associates are likely to be annoyed if you don’t give straight answers. Elderly need to take care of their health. You will have problems hanging on to your money. You are likely to overspend or misplace your wallet. Try not to offend others and adapt to your family needs. Erratic behaviour of your darling ruins romance. Avoid committing yourself into any new joint venture and seek the advice of people close to you if necessary. The number three and Jupiter are going to play a very significant role in the current year.

Hectic work of the past few months seems to have left you exhausted and tired. Your domestic scene will be somewhat unpredictable. Mood: Distracted at times. Compatible signs: Cancer, Libra. Lucky colours: Electric blue and White. Lucky days: Friday and Sunday. Lucky numbers: 18, 22, 30, 34, 39. Lucky gem: Citrine the Healing Gemstone. Lucky flower: Balsam.

Claire Catherine Danes (April 12, 1979) is an American television, stage and film actress. She has appeared in roles as diverse as Angela Chase in My So- Called Life, as Juliet in Baz Luhrmann’s Romeo + Juliet, as Kate Brewster in Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines, as Yvaine in Stardust and as Temple Grandin in the HBO TV film Temple Grandin. She portrays Carrie Mathison in the Showtime series Homeland.





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