Song of Success
Channi Singh’s band Alaap is the hottest in the UK. The reasons, he says, are the lyrical content and well-rehearsed performances
Ashima Batish

It is fifteen minutes of fame versus over three decades of perseverance; modern lyrics dedicated to ammunition, swanky cars, vital stats of girls versus the ever-green romantic verses; hip-hop versus bhangra. Though that is not how Channi Singh sees it, it's him pinned against the slew of 'me-too-singer' brigade. Assisting him in the cause of keeping sensible lyrics and trained singing afloat in the quagmire of 'just-about-anything' music is his daughter Mona Singh. "We are still the hottest band in UK," says Channi, in Chandigarh with Mona to launch their next album Alaap—The Legend Lives On.

True to the title of the album, it recreates some of his most popular tracks, Bhabhiye ni bhabhiye, Jind mahi, Ek kuri gulab de phul wargi… and one track by Mona Singh, Saadi Marzi. "We have never taken success for granted; had we done that people wouldn't have remembered our songs for more than two months," says Channi. He adds that quality music has never been as important as it is now. "Look at the competition, the funds people have to generate to produce an album, the marketing strategies; if you aren't the best, you don't stand a chance." At the same time, Channi is unfazed. He has worked hard enough to be where he is, certainly the reason why his band Alaap is the only Punjabi group to have performed at the 10 Downing Street! And also why he is known as the godfather of bhangra.

Channi says to ensure success, in all these years he has kept certain factors constant. "First is the content of lyrics and second the perfect stage performances by the bhangra groups." To appeal to the younger generation, the bhangra steps are improvised constantly. He adds that it's the university students who make for the maximum audience. "People know us for our original style of music; changing that would have meant losing confidence in our talent. Everything else can alter, not the style of music."

Channi doesn't like the trend of singers taking up to acting in Punjab. "Fame is blinding in most of the cases. Visual medium brings instant fame. Not that I didn't come out with music videos, but the 'hero tag' that an actor gets makes the difference. You are always at the risk of losing your focus." And he hasn't lost focus, neither in terms of music nor in terms of the story behind each of his track, his wife Dhanwant Kaur aka Dhanno. "She is the inspiration behind every song that I have written, sung or composed. The language might change from Punjabi to Hindi." Even the romantic song from Yalgaar, Aakhir Tumhe Aana Hai, has the same story behind it. "When I began, I had no clue that I would make it this big. I only had my family with me then. Due to them, I was never swayed by fame." The reason why he is still as famous after three decades; fifteen minutes of fame is only meant for the 'me-too-singer' brigade!

ashima@tribunemail.com

Like father, like daughter

When you have to carry forward a legacy, the first step towards successfully doing it is leading a disciplined life. Mona Singh realised pretty early in life what her father Channi Singh expected of her, "to be a trained classical singer and musician because that is the stepping stone to a long-lasting career in the music industry." But for a singer, who has to perform at late night concerts, it's not easy. To ensure discipline in her life, Mona Singh started working in a bank. Now, she is a bank manager by profession and a singer by passion. "If I wasn't working in a bank, like other singers I know, I too would have got up by the afternoon. Now my routine is set. Wherever I am performing at night, I have to be in the office at nine o' clock." She says that she hasn't taken an off in the last five years, "If at all I have, it's only when I am travelling for concerts." She knows the way to success — 'hardwork and discipline'. In the album, she will be singing Saadi Marzi along with Labh Janjua.

One for all seasons
Kalapini Komkali, in Chandigarh for a concert Riturang, says India's rich culture holds an edge over others
Mona

Varied life forces are pulling us in different directions; time is a scarce and exposing youngsters to classical arts is the need of the hour, feels classical vocalist Kalapini Komkali. In Chandigarh on Thursday with her mother Vasundhara Komkali for a concert Riturang, organised by the Chandigarh Sangeet Natak Akademi at the ongoing Chandigarh Art and Heritage Festival, Kalapini shares her take on the propagation of classical arts with us.

Riturang is themed upon the transformation of different seasons. "Each seasonal change comes with an associated festival, which is celebrated by people in rural India with full fervour," says Kalapini, who along with her guru-mother Vasundhara presents it through classical bandish, bhajan and also folk in Riturang.

This duo carries forward the gayaki of Pt Kumar Gandharva. Disciple of the illustrious parents, Kalapini found very strict teachers in them. "I was the youngest in the family, so, of cours,e was pampered a lot. But, it was way too challenging to be their student," says Kalapini. Years of rigorous hardwork and continuing practice have borne fruit and today, Kalapini is a worthy successor of her lineage. She has also picked up the dedication, honesty and respect for time from her parents.

In the age of global fusion, will the gharanas and their traditions be maintained? "No gharana is bigger than music. Lately, many artistes have picked up finer points from other gharanas and are doing very well. In fact, Kumar ji was one of the first few to encourage that." She is open to fusion as well, as long as it's thoughtful. One of the finest classical vocalists of the younger generation, Kalapini's next album will soon be out. "It's a compilation of healing mantras suitable for different times of the day," she says.

Is she open to singing in movies? "I have done that for two films Paheli and Devi Ahilya. They needed some classical-based songs, so I became part of it. Whenever I am offered something that suits me, I say yes." Being the inheritor of such a rich tradition, does she find it difficult to pass it on to her disciples? "I focus on my duty to instruct, what they make of it is their undertaking."

Her concerts and lecture demonstrations take Kalapini around the world and she is very popular amongst the youth. She strongly favours some sort of support system to be evolved for artistes. "India holds an edge over the other countries as far as the rich culture and varied art forms are concerned. Herein lies our strength and we must the make most of it," she signs off with a wish to come back and do a full-fledged concert on Varsha Ritu.

mona@tribunemail.com

Towards the telly world

Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar who have completed a decade of path-breaking cinema, having started with the coming-of-age delight Dil Chahta Hai, now will foray into television.

This producer-duo who recently tasted super-success with Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, have apparently been working with a team of writers for nearly six months creating something different for the idiot box. Like the cinema they make, they feel there is huge potential in the television space to create something new.

Farhan and Ritesh will do a mega game show; something the entire family can participate in. It’s going to be very high on edutainment—yes educating and entertaining. And at the same time also be an emotionally enriching experience. Also because of the goodwill these two share with the biggest names in the industry from Aamir, Shah Rukh to Hrithik; the game show will have the who’s who from our industry and some popular sportsmen as well. When asked about their television programme, Ritesh Sidhwani confirms, “Yes Farhan and I both feel that content on TV has huge potential. Television content is constantly evolving and we are excited to be entering TV at this point with a show which we feel the entire family can sit together and watch.”

Anurag’s on cloud nine...

Director Anurag Kashyap is on seventh heaven as three of his films Gangs of Wasseypur (Part I & II) and Peddlers have made it to the prestigious Cannes Film Festival this year. His grand two-part directorial project Gangs of Wasseypur, will be shown at the Directors’ Fortnight whereas his home-production Peddlers, directed by debutant Vasan Bala, has been selected for the Critics Week section.

“Three of our films; Peddlers, Gangs Of Wasseypur (I&II) at Cannes Film Festival. HUGE MOMENT OF PRIDE FOR US!” he informed on social-networking site Twitter.

Unable to control his excitement, he added: “Waiting at the Brussels airport in a silent zone, wanting to scream out loud, off to Copenhagen.. I am very happy..really Happy today.” Apparently, Bipasha Basu who was also supposed to attend the film festival will be giving it a miss as she will be shooting for Race 2 and Singularity around that time. Apart from Kashyap’s films, filmmaker Ashim Ahluwalia’s movie Miss Lovely has also been selected for the festival in the non-competitive section.

Romance next!
After Tezz, Ajay Devgn wants to do a romantic flick
love notes: Ajay Devgn
Love notes: Ajay Devgn

Ajay Devgn, who has been doing action and comedy films lately, says he is keen to star in a romantic movie but he is not being offered good scripts.

The Bollywood star gave romantic hits like Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha, Dil Kya Kare and Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam in the beginning of his career but his past few hits like Golmaal 3 and Singham have been of comedy and action genre. “I have not heard a good script in a long time. I don’t think people come to me with a lot of romantic characters. I would be interested in playing one if the story is good,” Ajay said in an interview. The 43-year-old’s upcoming film Tezz is also an action drama starring Kangana Ranaut, Sameera Reddy, Anil Kapoor and Zayed Khan. The film releases this Friday.

“I just came back from a 50 day outdoor shoot of Son Of Sardar so I didn’t really know what was happening with Tezz. Then I saw the film and it has shaped up really well.

It’s an action drama where the base and the emotion is very strong,” Ajay said.

“I have done the action sequences myself as I usually do my stunts myself. I enjoy doing it. Also, Tezz did not have something so difficult that I couldn’t manage,” he added.

Ajay, who has been in the industry for more than two decades and has had his share of flops, says there was never a point in his career where he felt things have come to an end. “I have never been in a situation where I felt that I should give up. Everybody has there lows. When I started, my first film was a big hit and after that the ball kept rolling... Two films didn’t work but it never mattered to me.

“It’s not that I didn’t have work or I was not being offered movies. I was refusing films so I guess I have been very lucky that I never faced a situation where I felt that it’s the end,” he said. —PTI

Then and now

Shahid Kapoor is suddenly being seen as a very sexy man. He is still cute but his audience now includes more than just school-going girls. He talks about changes and getting the tag of a player after being linked with Priyanka Chopra, Anushka Sharma, Bipasha Basu, and Nargis Fakhri.

New image

I was in a very public relationship for a long time and I learnt my lessons. I stopped talking about my personal life. The media can write and people can say whatever they want but nobody knows the actual story and I like it that way.

Enjoying singlehood

I am happy being single. I am having a great time with my guy friends and travelling so much. I have not even been working too much which is strange for me because I am a workaholic. I used to be a well-behaved boyfriend and now am not. So people are seeing a different side of me and saying that I have changed. Honestly, I have changed over the last four years.

A free bird

I have been living on my own for six years now and I really enjoy it. I cook, I work out, and I dance. I have parties with friends and it is fun. I have also become choosy in my films and I have definitely grown up as a person and an actor. I can look back at my films and judge myself honestly. I have become more relaxed and laidback. —HRM

Cole too busy for love

Singer Cheryl Cole says she just wants to focus on her career and doesn’t have time for a new relationship. “I’m not interested in dating, I’m too busy with my record. Nobody’s calling my name though,” she said in an interview.

The 28-tear-old also revealed she doesn’t enjoy drinking alcohol because she hates having to deal with hangovers and her only vice these days is some occasional junk food. “I’m a proper lightweight. It’s so overrated alcohol, it really is. I’m not the one for hangovers. I do like a glass of red wine, my vice is that I love chocolate. A little bit is good for you,” she said. — IANS

No more starry eyed
Brit call Kelly Brook
Brit call: Kelly Brook

Former Playboy model Kelly Brook says she has given up her dream of conquering Hollywood after refusing to relocate to the States.

The Piranha 3D star said that living in Los Angeles after a period of time becomes very monotonous, a publication reported.

“LA is fun to start with but then it gets very regular. I know I couldn’t live in the US permanently which is really what I would have to do to pursue an acting career,” she said.

The 32-year-old, who is dating former Scottish International rugby union player Thomas Evans, has already bagged a part in British movie Keith Lemon: The Film. — PTI

Say it with a jig…
The upcoming reality show Live Out Loud on UTV Bindass is all about expressing your emotions towards your near and dear ones through dance
Manpriya Singh

Just when we thought all the concepts of reality shows were exhausted, this one pulls in a little bit of drama, against the background of dancing or vice versa. Like its predecessors, it claims to be different and just as we get ready for the same difference, the man behind the microphone takes over, "Have you ever wanted to express your feelings to a secret crush, apologise for some old wrongdoing? Or ever feel like going down on one knee to propose to your love?" UTV Bindass is all set to launch yet another reality show Live Out Loud.

Echo Uma and Gaiti, the choreographers behind the show, "It could be a simple sorry or it could be I love you or it could be any emotion that you want to express to your near and dear one; we make it happen through dance." Meanwhile, colourfully co-ordinated dancers break into a 'well-planned impromptu' dance, where a guy tries to woo a girl against the background of colour co-ordinated dancers that Bollywood is known for.

On a personal note, it's been going good for the two of them. "We have been the consultant choreographers for the dance reality show Jhalak Dikhlaja and done the title track of Oye Lucky Lucky Oye. Fitted in between the resume is a music video for Raaz 2 and title track for Quick Gun Murugun. "We are professionally trained in contemporary, classic ballet, jazz and hip-hop styles of dancing." The current show is what they are excited about as of now, "We will get to be a part of the participants' mesmerising journey, help them overcome fears and inhibitions and express their feelings freely."

It's not the end of possibilities…want to give a big shout to the parents thanking them for everything they've done? This one claims to go way beyond e-mails, letters and text messages. The dance squad will comprise 250 co-ordinated dancers - the people who'll help the participants speak their heart out. Get swinging, express yourself and walk away with fifteen minutes of fame!

manpriya@tribunemail.com

Small steps to stardom
DID Li'l Masters -2 is back in a new format, where past contestants will act as skippers for the little ones
Sabia Talwar

"Nobody cares if you can't dance well. Just get up and dance. Great dancers are great because of their passion," these words by Martha Graham stand true for any person who dances for his or her own satisfaction. Zee TV's DID Li'l Masters is back with a bang and in its second season, there will be four choreographers, who will act as skippers, and their teams that will compete with each other.

For its announcement, Neerav Bavlecha (one of the skippers) and little dancers Avneet and Atul were in Chandigarh on Thursday. Says Neerav, who assisted Terence Lewis in DID Season 1 and 2, participated in Season 3 and is now a skipper for DID Li'l Masters Season 2, "I thank the channel for the amazing opportunity that kick-started my journey. For this season, I have taught kids between 5-7 years and they have a different energy altogether. I'm overwhelmed for this chance as well." How's the feeling of being a dancer as well as a choreographer? "As a dancer, you get only one chance to showcase your talent. As a choreographer, you teach children to enjoy their dance and not think of winning all the time." Neerav's forte is contemporary dance forms, but he promises that contestants under him will learn all other forms equally well.

What grandmaster Mithun Chakraborty says - "Yeh piddi bade ziddi hotein hain" - stands true for both Atul and Avneet. Says Atul, who belongs to Chandigarh, "I feel proud that I will be supporting this season's contestants. Now along with my studies, I teach dance to kids and after DID Li'l Masters have done many shows like Dancing Superstars, Zee TV Rishtey Awards and also acted in the movie London Dreams. As for 10-year-old Avneet, who is from Jalandhar, "I feel like a senior now and am very excited to cheer the present contestants."

What about the latest trend of dance classes? Says Neerav, "According to my experience, joining dance classes for fun is not wrong at all. In fact, the talent develops in a much better way when one starts at a young age." Come, let's dance!

sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com

Nothing theatrical about him...
National School of Drama graduate TN Kumardas says theatre has given him an opportunity to introspect
Mona

Doing theatre with some 100 inmates of an old age home in his home state, Kerala, in the immediate future and creating a production with a transgender later is what TN Kumardas now aspires for, after theatre happened to him accidentally. “I had gone to Trichur for my cousin’s admission in a drama course when I had my first brush with acting,” says the theatre director, in Chandigarh for a workshop at the Chandigarh Art and Heritage Festival.

A National School of Drama graduate, he has directed plays, Trojan Women and its extended version Trojan Women – A Love Story. And it’s in theatre that he finds his language and calling. “I find an opportunity to express myself here. It gives me the chance to introspect” says Kumardas. “Theatre’s role in making one ‘aware’ and in turn a better human being is a significant one,” he adds.

He has worked with old age home inmates before and is all set for another stint with them. People in such places consider themselves and are even considered as non-productive members of the society, but with his efforts Kumardas is out to change that perception. What about working with a transgender? “They are performing anyway in their everyday life. It would be stimulating to work with them,” he says. Theatre can bring the society, divided on the basis of caste, creed and socioeconomic dynamics, on to one platform and that’s what this theatre enthusiast is doing.

Girish Karnad and Laxman Gaikwad are the writers that Kumardas loves to work on (yes, he has done two Shakespeare plays as well, not as a director but actor). Are good plays being written today? “These days rather than working on written plays, one usually devises new ones,” says Kumardas, happy to be Chandigarh, where he is enjoying his five-day workshop on theatre as much as his students are!

mona@tribunemail.com

green thumb
So bugging!
Satish Narula

Insects have co-existed with us since ages. Now-a-days, they are all around on tree trunks, at the base of the trees, on the walls and even inside the house. Yes, I am talking about mango mealy bug that is bothering the gardeners presently.

First of all let us understand how suddenly they have appeared all over. For identification, the mealy bugs are about a centimetre long and nearly so broad, flat bodied white insects with a waxy body. As they are deprived of wings, they can be seen slowly treading up and down the trees. In fact, this is the time when they are coming down from the trees and some of them that get disoriented start moving in all directions. They have not appeared now. In fact, they were there sometime around middle of December. Hardly a millimetre long brown coloured insects appeared from soil near the base of the trees and as by nature as they were oriented, they moved to go up towards the top of the tree. It is at the terminal of the trees where they congregate to feed on the sap of the trees devitalising it. It is the same one millimetre insect that has grown and moving down, to lay eggs.

The question is how to check it. In fact November-December is the time when one can attain a cent per cent control on it by adapting to PAU-slippery-band technology. It is tying of about a 10 inch broad 1000 gauge poly-band all around the tree trunk, about three-feet above ground level on the main trunk. The poly-band is secured with three shoe nails but the most important aspect is sealing the lower edge of the band with wet mud so that the insects do not travel up from below the band. As the insects try to cross the barrier they fall down and die of starvation. Now, at this moment as they are climbing down, one could apply methyl parathion powder all around near the base of the tree as the descending insects come in contact with it and die. But then what about those insects that have spread all through the house? One cannot go sprinkling poison all around the house. So under such conditions, collect the insects with broom and destroy. ( Narula is a PAU horticulturist)

the ‘in’ side
Fountain of delight
Sukhmani
wall fountains add an exotic touch; and (right) Table top fountain is a good way to bring nature in
Wall fountains add an exotic touch; and (right) Table top fountain is a good way to bring nature in

Indoor fountains are a great way to enhance your interior space. These can be used in corporate offices, retail spaces as well as in residential areas.

Indoor fountains create a great first impression by conveying elegance and sophistication. Gaining in popularity year over year, indoor fountains are the perfect accent piece in your home.

Space-ific choice

  • Wall fountains: These get mounted on a wall like a beautiful painting and create a stunning focal point for any room.
  • Floor fountains: As the name suggests, these are placed on the floor and are very popular due to their mobility, and thus can be moved around easily.
  • Table top fountains: These types of interior water features are also referred to as desktop water fountains. The tabletop fountains are as small as six inches high, and can come as high as three feet. Use a small tabletop fountain on a desk, a coffee table, a corner table, floating shelves or just about anywhere. Desktop fountains possess a unique look that enhances the appearance of the element on which it is placed.
Fountains come in a variety of materials
Fountains come in a variety of materials

Apart from the aesthetic value, fountains in your home can benefit your health as well. The sound of trickling water has a very calming and relaxing effect thus reducing stress. They transform silent homes and office spaces into soothing natural environments. They also humidify air in a dry room and help remove harmful particles from the air like pollen and dust. According to Feng Shui, water inside your homes brings success and good luck.

Indoor fountains come in various materials like slate, copper, steel, natural stone, glass etc and can be beautifully custom made to fit into any decor style.

To care for your fountains, your water pump should always be submerged in water and not allowed to go dry. Also try using distilled water as this not only prevents the formation of mineral deposits but also keeps the algae away.

(Sukhmani is an interior and landscape designer)

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is April 27...

You may have concerns about your family. The year at work will be free of hassles. Financial matters will remain positive. However, mixed experiences will affect personal life. Health can give you concerns due to nervous issues. You will be happy with the way your children show progress. You'll be very tenacious when giving your point of view; you'll let others understand exactly what your demands and expectations are. Avoid showing signs of jealousy. This will put your relationship back on track.

You will want to partner or team up. While you've got the motivation and the creative spark, you will need help to go beyond the first push. Then there's some contention in the air. Work's not always going to be harmonious, but you've got to do your part to make sure this is a productive phase. The situation is looking to open up and you'll be able to make new deals which will help you grow professionally. If recently you have experienced some difficulties work wise, the stars finally announce that hard times are over.

Students will excel in their studies and those completing their basic education will enroll themselves for higher studies. Some of you will prefer to join vocational studies having focused their aspirations in a chosen field. It appears to be a busy, productive and over all progressive and happy time with one 'sour spot' right smack, when your fuse grows short or you react 'poorly' to a challenge and risk 'opening a bigger can of worms' that whatever made you short fused to being with! Be most tactful with children's behavior, suspicions of theft, tagging of 'responsibility', issues of money in any form and clashes with family members. New friends are indicated this week and may remain more 'superficial' for the time being and form closer bonds with common events, shared hobbies and I didn't know you were also a friend of' being likely reasons for further bonding. Sporting events, outdoor activities and sporting hobbies inspire more contact. Haste, carelessness and high-mindedness might make you feel tenser or could cause a variety of accidents.

Mood: creative and sound. Compatible signs: Leo, Virgo. Lucky colours: Light Pink and Mauve. Lucky days: Saturday and Monday. Lucky numbers: 8, 12, 13, 19, 54. Lucky gem: White Moonga (Coral). Lucky flower: Marigold.

Zohra Sehgal (April 27, 1912) film and TV artiste famous for her energy and enthusiasm makes century today. She started her career in 1935 as a leading dancer and in 1945 joined Prithvi Theatre at a salary of Rs.400. Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Dil Se, Cheeni Kum , Saawariya are some of her latest films. This centenarian will definitely enthrall the audience in the years to come as her number 9 provides more longevity besides other strong combinations in the birth chart.

Chatter box

A still from Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam DoonStress builds up

Get ready for the tension between Khushi and Arnav to dissipate in Star Plus's Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon as the questions raised by her will soon be answered. Khushi wants to know why Arnav married her and she will learn the truth that Arnav (Barun Sobti) knows about her relationship with Shyam.



A still from Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon

Yami Gautam Weaving a success story

Yami Gautam, who has a hit in her film debut Vicky Donor, was a TV face for the longest time. She feels TV is special to her but will focus on films for now. She has realised that TV is hectic than movies and both are equally important.




Greener pastures: Yami Gautam

A still from Shubh Vivah Shock treatment

A shocking buzz is doing the rounds that the recently launched show UTV Productions' Shubh Vivah on Sony will go off air. The show touted as Eijaz Khan's return to TV didn't find favour with audiences and even lower in TRPs.




A still from Shubh Vivah

Doing well: Rucha Hasabnis In the comfort zone

Rucha Hasabnis aka Rashi in Saath Nibhana Saathiya might be doing well but she was in two minds about taking up the role. She didn't want to start her career with a negative role but soon she realised it was for the best. Now she couldn't be happier.


Doing well: Rucha Hasabnis

blushing bride:Shveta Salve Wedding wows

Shaveta Salve will tie the knot with her fiancé Harmeet Sethi in Goa next week. She got engaged in June last year, and has known him for over three years. Shveta is thrilled and excited about the upcoming wedding which will be attended by family and close friends.

Blushing bride:Shveta Salve

Twists and turns

Soon Kuch Toh Log Kahenge on Sony will see a dramatic twist with Dr Nidhi (Kritika Kamra) and Dr Ashotush (Sharad Kelkar) getting married. Rohan (Karan Wahi) will be angry with the same and will cause a few stressed moments in the show.

comedy of errors: Lilliput It’s so funny

Lilliput will enter Hitler Didi as a thief and will tickle the funny bone of viewers. For now, the show is facing several serious moments and the move will create lighter under currents. His character Lalaan Kasai will be Jhumpa's rakhi brother. He wants to be a don and Lilliput hopes his role will convert into a full-fledged role.

Comedy of errors: Lilliput

New show in town

Producer Gajendra Singh is working a new show for Doordarshan called Bharat Ki Shaan which will be a reality show with 32 contestants in a singing contest. Usha Uthup and music composer Ismail Darbar will be judges. He has two shows for Sahara One- Ghar Aaja Pardesi Tera Des Bulaye and Sur-Kshetra a singing reality show too.

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Profits are expected from a new deal. Business inquiries are encouraging. Romance may blossom. You can expect a sudden career change. Some of you would have additional responsibilities. Tarot message: You need to cultivate understanding and humility. Lucky colour: Navy blue. Lucky number: 61

TAURUS: Professionals may have to go slow lest they may incur losses. It is also, a good day to reunite with friends and relatives. Professionals in the field of music, art and literature would be appreciated and awarded. Tarot message: Do not let anyone get the advantage over you. Lucky colour: White. Lucky number: 37

GEMINI: The employed may be transferred to another town with promotions. Students appearing for any tests or interviews need to pay more attention to their studies. Safeguard your interests by being sincere and honest. Tarot message: Money matters and health may also need some looking after. Lucky colour: Peach. Lucky number: 31

CANCER: Visitors may arrive without any notice. Love and friendship are a major support. Watch your diet and calories during social occasions. Your hopefulness, brightness and genuine warmth would win you friends for life. Tarot message: Boost your confidence with positive thinking. Lucky colour: Saffron. Lucky number: 29

LEO: You suddenly have the power and the desire to make dreams come true. Tread carefully in romantic affairs for someone close to you is particularly sensitive. Turn your attention to exercise and diet. Tarot message: Cut away the frills and concentrate on what is truly important. Lucky colour: Lotus pink. Lucky number: 65

VIRGO: You can make money if you're willing to push your ideas on those in a position to support your efforts. You must continue working at a good pace as you are nearly there at the top, where you belong. Tarot message: Keep a close watch on any niggling health problems. Lucky colour: Yellow. Lucky number: 27

LIBRA: Your mind will be very alert, clear and quick, enabling you to find immediate solutions to the problems that may arise. Though you are a calm and easy going person, you will accelerate and become more talkative and curious. Tarot message: Make compromises outside and come to terms within yourself. Lucky colour: Silver. Lucky number: 42

SCORPIO: There could be opportunities for new business ventures or assignments. Be realistic about the financial aspects of the venture to avoid delays in the later stages. Network and build contacts with people who share your interests. Tarot message: Accept the benefits coming your way. Lucky colour: Brown. Lucky number: 63

SAGITTARIUS: People are attracted to you for your intelligent mind and gift of communication. Be in touch with your sense of humour. This would help to improve both aspects and today you should focus on just that. Tarot message: Fitness routines and healthy diets are prescribed. Lucky colour: Silver grey. Lucky number: 56

CAPRICORN: You have a tendency to be overly generous and forget that you have a budget to respect. Your desire to help others is admirable, but it could lead you into the trouble. You may want to spend time with friends and family. Tarot message: Must learn to accept responsibility for self and others. Lucky colour: Red. Lucky number: 65

AQUARIUS: Now is the time to put your plans into action, particularly when it comes to legal matters. Brilliant links between Venus and Moon indicate that any wishes and hopes that have just been dreaming of now begin to take shape. Tarot message: Be honest to your desires. Lucky colour: pink. Lucky number: 45

PISCES: This would be a good time to connect with friends. There may be some legal issues for some of you. You may have to compromise and sacrifice a little, yet it would be vital for the peace of the household. Tarot message: Don't bite off more than you can chew. Lucky colour: Green. Lucky number: 34

Star track

Foggy experience

For five days when shooting of Ishaqzaade could not start on time due to excessive fog and bad light. The entire unit would reach the set on time as per the call-sheets, get ready and then wait. Quite a few of the unit members would channel their energies into cricket, others would break into songs … the fog delayed the shoot but brought the unit-members closer.

Sweet bond: Katrina Kaif & Arjun KapoorSweet bond: Katrina Kaif & Arjun Kapoor Kat’s a good sis

Katrina Kaif considers Arjun Kapoor to be her brother and even ties a rakhi for him. She even offered to do an item song in Ishaqzaade. He has said that he would not mind dating her on screen.

Sweet bond: Katrina Kaif & Arjun Kapoor

I love NY: Scarlett Johansson

Hollywood star Scarlett Johansson, who was born and raised in the Big Apple, has got a new tattoo to proclaim her love for the city.

The Lost in Translation actress has had the inking done on her wrist in a bracelet design with a hammer-shaped pendant hanging from it, featuring an ‘I love NY’ message. Johansson, 27, was in London for the premiere of her new action movie The Avengers last week when she proudly showed off the body art to photographers. — PTI

Cold war

Kangna Ranaut has been sharing cold vibes with Ajay Devgn at the promotional events for Tezz. Things went wrong between them during Rascals. Ajay and Anil Kapoor are headlining the promotions for Tezz.

On the way

Rowdy Rathore is releasing on June 1 and is all over the place. We find the promos to be outdated and very chauvinistic and like movies of the 1990s. Sonakshi is only looking good and swinging her waist. The songs are pretty messy too.

Mallika’s fired

Mallika Sherawat’s item number has been removed by Tezz by director Priyadarshan because he simply does not like it. Moreover, she lost her starring role in Mumbai Mirror because of this flop item number. The makers think she has no magic anymore.

Almost ignored

Did anyone know that Anjana Sukhani is part of Department? Well, she actually has a role in it. She is upset with the director for not promoting her and going ga-ga and planning promotions around item girl Nathalia Pinheira Kaur instead.





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