Flashback
Bollywood actress Rati Agnihotri believes in facing life as it comes
Jasmine Singh

There she is, a simple warm smile sitting coy with the beauty spot on her lips. Long hair adding lustre to the beautiful actor called Rati Agnihotri. Effervescent and impish, the yester year star of Ek Duje Ke Liye watches the on- going event at Fort Ramgarh, often breaking into laughter, clapping and cheering up.

Turning around she sees the cameras zooming in on her, something that she has lived with years now. “One has to move on with time, I have worked with some of the finest actors. It was that time, but today this moment has its own reality,” she says without a speck of sadness or longing on her face.

Then & now

“As I said, today I am doing character roles of all kinds in almost over 80 films now. And this is how the present generation knows me, they see me as Kareena’s ma in Yaadain or Saif Ali Khan’s mother in Hum Tum. The older ones know me for my work, my acting and my films. In all this, I have to strike a balance,” adds Rati who might venture into film direction one day.

To direct or not …

“It is natural for an actor to develop some directorial sensibilities during the stint in Bollywood. You learn about the technicalities of cinema. Also, having worked with directors gives an insight into movie making,” she says taking a pause. As if something magical has happened. “Who knows if I find an interesting film I might just direct. On second thoughts, I would want to assist some good director before taking the plunge,” she smiles.

Stardom doesn’t come easy

“I might be sounding like everything has been easy and I know how to take things in stride,” shares Rati. “Everyone goes through the high and low phases of life and so have I. But I have always been positive about myself and my work. Today, a new crop of directors are redefining cinema, and I don’t crib about what kind of work am I getting. I know as an actor, I can slip into any role and this is enough for me,” she adds.

“My son Tanuj will be launched in movies this year,” excitement written all over her face.

Being a celeb mom

“I told my son to be with me everyday for 5 minutes so that I can give him some advice. He, however, doesn’t want any. He wants to go out and do things on his own. He is proud to be my son and the fact that I am an actor, but he insists on carving a niche for himself, which is right. If you are a celebrity parent it is good and bad both,” puts in Rati.

Rati, who belongs to Chandigarh, says, “I love being here, and I look forward to my visits to the city always.”

jasmine@tribunemail.com

success mantra
Weaving it right
Mona
Suchita Jain
Suchita Jain Photo: S Chandan

Born into a business family, Suchita Jain has taken forward the legacy. Taking a step ahead from the yarn, she set up fabric unit pretty early in life. “I think being from a business family, one picks up the acumen automatically,” says Suchita who joined work at twenty-two and took on a full-fledged role at twenty-three, soon after her wedding. Two decades later, she is going full steam. Executive director, Vardhman Textiles, Suchita talks of her journey and success mantras.

Determination & discipline

I didn’t really have a woman as a role model when I started. I had to chart my own course. Clarity about my goals and vision for future earned me respect and support. If one has determination teamed with desire to work hard, people sense it and respect it.

Passion & profession

I picked up business because this is what I really wanted to do. If one is deeply passionate about work, everything else falls in place. Moving from our yarn, I set up fabric business, which was a different ballgame all together, but I was determined. I gave undivided attention to my work.

No pain no gain

There are no shortcuts to success. Whatever commitments one is working to fulfill; studies, looking after your family or entrepreneurship; one has to work hard to achieve success. No pain no gain. Putting in hours is as important as is the quality of the work.

Put in your best always

I strongly believe in the karma theory. Luck plays its own role, what we have to do is to identify and give one’s best when the opportunity arises. What happens next is not in one’s hands and whatever is the best for you will come your way. Life has its ups and downs; that shouldn’t stop us from giving our best.

Family support counts

It’s important to have the flow of positive energy. Strong family support counts a lot more for a woman. By family, I mean parents, in-laws, husband and children. I have been fortunate that I got support from all corners and they have kept my motivation levels high!

mona@tribunemail.com

its happening
Face-to face with Pinto

The Cafia Utsav Literature &Art Trust (CULT) launches itself on Wednesday, May 16, at the UT Guest House with a face-to-face with well-known writer Jerry Pinto. Pinto will read from his much acclaimed debut novel EM and the Big HOOM, published by the new high-end literary publishers, Aleph Book Company, launched last year by Rupa with David Davidar and Ravi Singh as chief editors. He will also interact with the audience.

Ravi Singh will talk about the future plans of Aleph which has made a stir with its first three titles: The Taliban Cricket Club, Between Clay and Dust and Pinto's novel.

Literature seems to be the theme song of the season in the city. Societies that came up this year besides CULT, include the Chandigarh Literary Society, the Adab Trust and the Manto Foundation.

Fa(c)t finding

There may be some truth to the saying ‘a moment on the lips, a lifetime on the hips’. Scientists have found that once eaten, fat is stored on the waistline within hours – far faster than previously thought.

Within just three or four hours of having a meal, up to two or three teaspoons of fat from the food gets stored. And if eaten again shortly afterwards, the fat stored around the middle will grow and grow.

Those who like to tuck in at dinner should take particular note, as fat from meals eaten later in the day is especially likely to be stored around the middle.

The finding that it is possible to ‘become fat’ within three hours contradicts the popular belief that weight gain is gradual.

It was believed that fat from food was transported from the gut into the blood, where it could be used by the muscles as needed.

Any excess was thought to be gradually removed and stored in the fatty, or adipose, tissue around the waist, hips and legs. —ANI

Child-like passion
It’s not easy to give up the razzle-dazzle of the glamour world and work with children. We find out a few who are driven by the sole purpose of bringing joy to children’s life
Vasudha Gupta

Whether it is the corporate world or the service industry, the economic sector is brimming with job opportunities today. There are only a few, apart from the teaching fraternity, who can resist the lure of the hi-flying corporate world and work with the younger lot.

For some, it’s just pure passion of working with children and for some it is just introducing fun in their lives. We chat up with a few who are shaping up lives of children rather than finding satisfaction behind balance sheets and account statements.

When was the last time you gave your child the freedom to do what he wanted to do? From acing in school grades to giving an outstanding performance in the aptitude tests, a child is being pushed to the limit. “I have seen children, and I am talking of students in Class I to Class X, just sitting and completing their home work during rehearsals,” shares Zubin Mehta, director of the Wings Theatre Academy. Running a successful theatre academy in St Kabir Public School since the last three months, Zubin is excited about a play which will be staged soon. With pressure of academics ruining children’s creativity today, Zubin hopes to introduce enough cathartic experience in a child’s schedule. “Theatre gives the opportunity for a child to express themselves freely and being part of that mechanism is a great feeling,” he shares. Being a catalyst in making life a bit more fun for the younger generation, Zubin is constantly upbeat about being able to help children in whichever way he can. Having witnessed a dyslexic child overcome her lack of confidence while on stage, the director is certain that it will make a significant difference in academics as well. For him theatre is also about mind and body activities and can help overcome learning disabilities.

Without an iota of doubt, music tends to play an integral role in a child’s grooming. Looking at this, two musicians Paulus Paul and Ondry Paul have released a CD on children’s songs. The duo, also running a rock band, could have chosen to cut an album but opted for children’s music. “Coming from a family of musicians, it’s been part of our growing up years,” Paulus shares. For the duo, watching a three-year-old, who still has to get a grip on the language, can easily break into a song and that is what inspired them. “The sheer joy of watching kids having fun with music motivates us to work with children,” he adds, strumming his guitar. Although the band performs at parties, weddings and get-togethers, their true calling is working with kids. “Just looking at how they interpret music and learn from words is so much fun,” Paulus shares. To make music interesting, the duo introduced hip-hop in the CD.

Sometimes, the reason could be borne out o compulsion, but the passion remains unadulterated. Manjit Singh had to take up tennis coaching due to financial constraints; today he moves around his travel plans to ensure that his students have good exposure in tennis. “Coaching children is not only a bit tough but also a major challenge,” he says. For this young coach, life is no more about going for international tournaments but more about providing the right facilities to his students and making them eligible for the same. Teaching children as young as four, he tackles each child individually. “Some of them can be very naughty but you have to hold your ground and mould your teaching technique accordingly,” he adds.

It’s time to leave behind the junior senior fundamentals and work for the shining future of India.

vasudha@tribunemail.com

Storm in a tea cup!
Jigyasa Kapoor Chimra

When the Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, Montek Singh Ahluwalia, suggested that that he will take up the issue of declaring tea as India’s national drink with the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, most tea lovers were ecstatic. But on the other hand, coffee-drinkers were not a happy lot. “It’s not fair as everyone is not fond of tea, some like the milky sweet-bitter taste of coffee,” says Ridhima Arora, a boutique owner from Mohali. Montek Singh Ahluwalia’s suggestion has given a hot new topic for debate, which has generated some bubbling and some boiling responses!

Dairy giant Amul jumped right into the controversy seeking that milk should be made the national drink. And then again we had coffee lovers put their perspective in place with indiacoffee.org stating that consumption of coffee in the country has been growing at a steady pace and the per capita consumption of coffee is 75 grams.

“I love my morning cup of tea but I don’t understand this concept of having a national drink. It is just tea, some people drink it, some people don’t; it’s stretching it a bit too far when you add a patriotic angle to everything,” says Anubhav Sood, marine engineer, from Sector 28.

Well, if all goes by Ahluwalia’s suggestion then the drink will be accorded a national drink status by April 17 next year to coincide with the 212th birth anniversary of the first Assamese tea planter and sepoy mutiny leader Maniram Dewan. To this Varun Bhardwaj, an employee of a telecom company in Mohali, says, “How does it even matter? Do we need to accord a national status to something as humble as tea? And even if we do so, will people drink more tea and less of coffee? Things like tea and coffee are not worth pulling into debates.”

Says Dilpreet Dang, lecturer at a private university. “It’s just another political trick. It is a reinvention of tradition to symbolise and represent the idea of one unified culture.” 

Par Excellence
Placing the club on its sole
Jesse Grewal

To complete the set up we have to get the right distance between the feet and the ball. The correct position would be when the sole of the club rests squarely on the ground. This would set the correct angles in the posture – a bend from the hips and a flex from the knees.

There would be an angle or cupped position in the wrists (picture 1). If we bend too much from the hips the angle in the wrists would increase and the toe of the club would be well above the ground (picture 2).

If the ball is hit with the club in this position it would tend to go left (for right handed golfers). If there is no angle in the wrists, the arms and club would look as if they are in a straight line and the heel of the club would be slightly off the ground (picture 3). If the ball is hit with the club in this position it would tend to go right.

A lot of good golfers take their posture and shuffle their feet to help them move in to the right position or distance from the ball. This could be done by finding the correct posture a little further away from the ball and then dropping the arms to place the club on the ground and then moving towards the ball with your feet. Some place the club head behind the ball and then set their posture.

When we swing a club, the shaft of the club tends to bend backwards or lag and also tends to bend downwards which causes the toe of the club to dig in to the ground. This is called the toe down effect.

The softer the shaft is the more would be the toe down effect. To compensate for this the toe of the club could be placed slightly up at address so that at impact it would be square.

Standard golf clubs have been generally made for golfers who are approximately 5’ 10” tall. Golfers who are shorter need flatter clubs and golfers who are taller need upright clubs. If the clubs are not fitted to your heightit would be difficult to set the club correctly on its sole and maintain the correct posture.

(Grewal has coached several national champions and professionals apart from being coach of the Indian golf team for the Eisenhower Cup (World Cup) in 2008. He is currently the Director of National Golf Academy of India and CGA Hero Honda Golf Academy. If you have any queries get in touch with him at parexcellence@tribunemail.com)

Celeb point
The making of Heroine
Divya Dutta

Shooting for Heroine! The much-talked about and yes, a controversial film too. Madhur Bhandarkar is known to extract the best performances from his leading ladies. And the roles he makes are a delight for any actress. Chandni Bar, Page 3, Fashion—all have won awards for the best actress and supporting actress.

Some magic he weaves in his shots, making a role memorable and the audience remembers it always…

This is my first film with Madhur and what I like the best about it is that he cast me in a role which is totally different from me. That is a sign of a very sorted and confident director who doesn’t follow the myths but makes people follow the trend he sets in. I am so excited about this new avatar Madhur has visualised me in! The first day as I come ready on the sets, everyone gives a second look. This is not how they are used to seeing me. And that gives me a high! Admiration for Madhur surfaces even more for walking a different line! But that’s how all the masters of cinema have been. They have cast actors in roles no one had perceived before because mostly they go by the herd mentality of image perceptions. Prakash Mehra made the soft Bachchan into an angry young man, David Dhavan made Govinda a comedy ka badshah when he was known as a romantic hero. Arjun Rampal became an anti-hero with Om Shanti Om! They all found a different niche when someone believed that they could be different and successfully at that.

So in my different avatar I land up on the set thinking it’s going to be a very serious sober set as Madhur’s films are serious issue- based. I was pleasantly surprised to see everyone in a happy jovial mood. It was heartening to see Madhur explaining the scene to me and the lovely Kareena in a very light and happy mood. They were taking the scene seriously but not themselves. I loved that. The scene turned out to be fantabulous, one of those that leaves an everlasting impact but the best was without making the actors feel that they were supposed to put in a lot of effort.

Enjoying this shoot, the lovely atmosphere on the set, a very chilled out yet meticulous and sensitive director Madhur and the spontaneous and lovely Kareena Kapoor!

As we three shoot another scene, I just think of that ad which said, “Khoob jamega rang jab mil baithenge teen yaar (as in colleagues here)…rang to khoob jam raha hai! And you as an actor do have this feeling inside that you are an integral part of a very special film. Yes, the most awaited one this year and using Madhur’s favourite expression, ‘It’s a jalwa to be doing Heroine!’

(Dutta is a Bollywood actor)

Star track
Genetically endowed

Gauahar Khan has won accolades for her role and songs in Ishaqzaade. She is not a trained dancer; she just has the talent in her genes because her parents are great dancers as well. She feels lucky to have worked with Chinni-Prakash.



Dancing star: Gauahar Khan

The journey begins…

Ishaqzaade has received an opening of INR 5 crore in its first weekend. Arjun Kapoor has a three-film deal with YRF, his next film will be directed by Pradeep Sarkar and also star Parineeti Chopra. He will work with his father Boney Kapoor later on.

 

Heavy, still beautiful!

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has to walk the Cannes red carpet but she is still heavy as she has not lost her post-pregnancy weight.

Designers are suggesting that she should wear Indian outfits such as sarees and churidaar-kurtas to hide her flab and look gorgeous.






Weight issues: Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

Inspired by Kat

British model Scarlett Wilson has an item song called Imported Kamariya and a small role in the movie Shanghai. She plays the role of a foreign model who becomes a star in India. So her track is inspired by the success of Katrina Kaif.

No to lip-lock

Ali Zafar loves his career as an actor in Bollywood and has plum projects too. He says he will never kiss any of his heroines onscreen. It is not because of his wife, he just does not want to do it.

Britney and Demi’s judging factor

Pop stars Britney Spears and Demi Lovato have been officially confirmed to join the US X Factor judges panel.

Fox network made the formal announcement about Lovato, 19, and Spears’ appearance on the show at their programming upfront in New York City recently, a publication reported.

Spears, 30, along with fellow pop star and tablemate Lovato, arrived onstage with creator Simon Cowell.

“I couldn’t be more excited to join The X Factor judging panel. I’m a huge fan of the show and now I get to be a part of the action. Simon and LA better watch out,” Spears said in a statement.

Camp Rock star Lovato and I Wanna Go hitmaker Spears will join Simon Cowell and LA Reid who are the only original judges from first season.

“I’m so thrilled to join this legendary group of judges on the show. To be able to spend each week with Simon, LA and Britney watching the best that America has to offer is truly a dream come true,” Lovato said. No details as to how much Lovato’s contract is worth have been leaked, however, Spears is thought to have negotiated a USD 15 million pay packet to be a panelist on the show.

Show creator Cowell tweeted, “‘Can’t believe it’s finally happened. Very exciting!” The singers will replace Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger, who were axed after poor ratings on last year’s debut series. — PTI 



Karan poking fun at Katrina?


Totally misunderstood: Karan Johar

According to the reports in media, director-producer Karan Johar was overheard joking about Katrina Kaif’s posing skills at a recent party and making remarks on her tedious looks for various magazine covers. 

It was also said that he had imitated some of her poses and made fun. But Karan denied it. “Absolutely crazy media report suggesting I have said something about Katrina. I have not! It’s totally baseless and a lie. Katrina is not only a dear friend but agreat actor as well. It is ridiculous when the media comes out with false reports!” he said.

Fitness advice from Kunal Kapoor

Kunal Kapoor has one of the fittest bodies in Bollywood. He is a Greek God and girls swoon over him. The shy and soft-spoken guy talks about fitness and gymming right.

Eat, rest and workout

Eating right and taking adequate rest is as important as the exercise or work-out you do. Your muscles need rest to grow. Get a customised diet and work-out plan for yourself.

Focus on the right area

Work on strengthening your core area (the mid-riff and stomach) because that determines your strength and fitness levels. Bulky arms and shoulders are of no use if your core is weak.

Alternative regime is a must

Keep changing your routine so you don’t get bored and your body doesn’t get used to it. Once your body gets used to a routine, it doesn’t respond so you have to change the routine so that the body responds to it and grows.

Caution, weight overloading!

Always be careful about your posture, form and breathing right because compromising on that could lead to injuries. Start with light weights and patiently increase it.

Warm-up to cool down

Stretch before and after your workout as warming up and cooling down are utterly important. —HRM

Master of dance

As we draw closer to the 13th Videocon IIFA Weekend 2012, actor-choreographer-director Prabhu Deva is gearing up to choreograph his first ever awards show. Having mastered a wide range of sensational dancing styles, he is considered one of Indian cinema’s greatest dancers and choreographers. This will be the first time ever that the actor will be choreographing an awards show. This will also be the first time that Prabhu Deva will perform at the IIFA Awards, displaying his signature moves.

Prabhu Deva said, “Dancing has always been one of my greatest passions and I have always wanted to be a part of an IIFA celebration and this is an ideal opportunity to combine the two. It is going to be a different experience for me personally, choreographing for Bollywood’s finest and I’m excited to take on this project. The energy on stage is always fascinating; there are so many talented young actors in Bollywood right now and I look forward to working with them.”

The Videocon IIFA Weekend will be hosted in the Lion City of Singapore from June 7-9, this year. The Videocon IIFA Weekend, Singapore will be an outstanding celebration of Indian Cinema which will showcase the excellence of Indian Film Industry on the global dais. The spectacular weekend this year will include an extravagant line-up of mega events like the IIFA World Premiere, IIFA Rocks and the magnificent IIFA Awards. The Videocon IIFA Weekend is presented by Videocon Industries and is organised by Wizcraft International Entertainment.

Andre Timmins, Director – Wizcraft International Ent said, “We are extremely honoured and excited to have Prabhu Deva on board to choreograph this year’s IIFA. He is a sensational dancer and has been recognised as one of the best the Indian Film Industry has seen. To have someone of his stature at the Awards, we are certain fans in Singapore will have their dose of Indian cinematic magic.”

 

A political tourist

It’s been a week since the controversy broke out, but nineties Bollywood superstar Madhuri Dixit continues to face severe criticism from some politicians for apparently quoting a high price to agree to endorse Maharashtra tourism, inspite of being a Maharashtrian herself.

Nitesh Rane, Swabhimaan Sanghatana chief and son of Industries’ Minister Narayan Rane tweeted, “Madhuri Dixit charging high for being the brand ambassador of Maharashtra is such a disgrace! When it comes to your own soil... one should be selfless! Shame!”

Earlier, indirectly referring to the actress for not being a part of a State Government film award function, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar said, “This is a state honour, a token of the love of 11 crore citizens. Some stars were free to receive other awards two days ago, but are tied for time to receive a government honour.”

But while the actress is facing the ire of politicians, one of her supporters in the industry replied to the minister in her favour. The supporter was bold enough to directly reply to Nitesh Rane’s tweet on the social media platform, saying, “Sir, we are living in a democracy. What’s wrong if Madhuri doesn’t attend an award night or demands a price which she believes she deserves?”

“From time to time, actors do a lot for social causes anyway. Just because Madhuri is a Maharashtrian, doesn’t mean she needs to come for a subsidised fee or for free,” he added in his tweet to Rane.

It does make sense! Maybe, politicians can concentrate more on serious matters. The country is ridden with issues like corruption, frauds and scams. Whether Madhuri Dixit signs up for Maharashtra tourism or not could hardly be a matter of concern in the larger scheme of things.

 

Hilary Swank sues audio-video company

Actress Hilary Swank is taking a home-audio company to court over unauthorised photos. The 37-year-old Million Dollar Baby has filed a lawsuit against Robert’s Home Audio and Video and its proprietor Randall Cordero and Cordero Studios, claiming that they were using her name and image in their ads without her permission, reported a publication.

Part of the complaint submitted in Los Angeles Superior Court read, “Defendants did not ask for or receive Ms Swank’s permission to use her photograph, identity or persona in the advertisements or otherwise to associate with Defendants’ companies or to market Defendants’ commercial products or services.” The two-time Oscar winner is suing for misappropriation of right of publicity/privacy and negligence, and is seeking unspecified damages.

Swank isn’t the only Hollywood star to have taken legal action against companies that are using his/her images without permission.

George Clooney and Julia Roberts sued two audio-visual companies for misappropriation of right of publicity and right of privacy. — PTI

 

Not so water friendly

Sonal Chauhan has hydrophobia. She is overcoming that by learning swimming and Scuba diving for her next movie. The film also stars Neil Nitin Mukesh and will be shot in Fiji! How exotic!




Overcoming phobias: Sonal Chauhan

chatter box
Extension plans

In Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, Akshara's trip will get extended by a day but Naitik (Karan Mehra) will assure her that he will take good care of Naksh in her absence.

Akshara (Hina Khan) will get humbled by Naitik's gesture. Later they all will plan for Anshu's birthday.

 

 

Dramatic twists

A still from Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon

After the disappointing comedy track ended, it's time for drama on Star Plus' Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon. Apparently, Shyam (Abhaas Mehta) will kidnap Arnav (Barun Sobti), who will go missing from the airport and after a huge drama, Khushi (Sanaya Irani) will save her husband Arnav. Guess for next few weeks, we will see Sanaya Irani holding the audience, as Barun Sobti will be missing from the show, as he would be busy shooting for his film.

 

United we stand

In Bade Achhe Lagte Hain, Priya (Sakshi Tanwar) will be back with Ram (Ram Kapoor) after Niharika (Eva Grover) calls her. But soon she will try to unite the family and explain everything to Ram. Soon Ayesha (Chahat Khanna) and Siddharth (Mahesh Shetty) will fall in love too.



back home: Sakshi Tanwar

It’s a baby girl!

Shweta Kawatra delivered a baby girl at the Kokilaben hospital in Mumbai. Her husband, Manav Gohil, was beaming and excited with the new arrival. Shweta is fine and thrilled to meet family and friends along with her new born baby.

No comic standing

It was surprising to hear Krushna and Sudesh announcing their decision to leave the show. During the shoot, both of them expressed their willingness to part away with the show and move on to Bollywood for better prospects. Both the judges questioned their decision but the actors were adamant. Is this the final goodbye for television's most famous comic duo? 

Indecent exposure

In Sasural Simar Ka, Roli (Avika Gor) and Simar (Deepika Samson) will plan to expose Anisha. They will team up with their husbands Prem (Shoaib Ibrahim) and Sidhant (Manish Raisinghi), and trick Anisha into confessing the truth. Later, Anisha will be sent to jail and they will have to face an angry Mataji.

The cast of Sasural Simar Ka

 

Dancing shoes

In Ek Doosre Se Karte Hain Pyaar Hum, Susheela (Pariva Pranati ) accepts the dance challenge but she puts one condition before Sanyukta (Suchita Trivedi ) that if she wins the competition then Sanyukta has to give her abhay vachan as a winning prize. Sanyukta agrees to Susheela's condition stating that she will ask for the same if she wins the competition. Nikhilesh (Rajeev Mehta) plays narad muni and tries to change the dance forms on which Susheela and Sanyukta are practicing.

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: You win over an enemy or adversary. Family life is charged with tension. Financially the first half of the day will be expensive. Writers will find their work in print. A health crisis might strike. Tarot message: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far. Lucky colour: Mauve. Magic number: 49

TAURUS: Those who are spiritually inclined or want to stay calm are in search of solitude. Love life is passing through a rough phase. A feel good humour will weave into your affairs. Kindness is spreading around you. Tarot message: Be positive and think carefully before taking action. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 42

GEMINI: Your card The Universe favours good progress in your profession. Be wary of a situation where it would be easy to make a mistake in haste. Distant affairs will become more favourable as the day progress. Tarot message: Do not let anyone take advantage. Lucky colour: Bottle green. Magic number: 25

CANCER: You card The Moon reveals a romantic interest. If you have a lover, this is the day to treat them to a generous gift accompanied by an intimate dinner. Fortune can smile on you from the least expected sources. Tarot message: Don't be too certain about obtaining a clearance. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 38

LEO: Dress for success to make a great impression on employers. Style is everything, so it is important to stay abreast of the latest fashions. Contact your parents if you have not called them lately. Tarot message: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 29

VIRGO: Fresh strategies are in order but initially they may be somewhat hit-and-miss as you iron out the bugs. Speculation would be most unwise. No problem should arise in romance. You will feel great with your energy. Tarot message: Capitalise on your strength and do not trust others. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 60

LIBRA: You will be popular with friends today. Boring jobs can be made bearable through teamwork. You may be feeling vulnerable to the criticism of neighbours or friends. Keep your head cool and avoid confrontation as far as possible. Tarot message: Focus on better to mitigate the bitter. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 59

SCORPIO: Many of you will scurry to be on time, frantically trying to complete all the tasks on full to-do lists before the day is out. Secrecy of plans will help you at place of work. Concentrate on dues. Tarot message: Wait and watch impatience will lead to failure. Lucky colour: Cream. Magic number: 54

SAGITTARIUS: Caring conversations flow easily. Stick to what you know. Cool down with water sports such as swimming, boating fishing, sailing or surfing. Be wary of over-confidence which could lead to recklessness. Tarot message: Unfinished business will unleash new problems. Lucky colour: Grey. Magic number: 39

CAPRICORN: A burst of domestic enthusiasm can sweep into cleaning and decorating your home. Married will enjoy the evening in a different way. If possible get some fresh air. Feeling fit and healthy can only add to your confidence in your abilities. Tarot message: You need to cultivate understanding and humility. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 63

AQUARIUS: Differences of opinion within the family could reach a boiling point. Do not compromise on financial issues. Private employees can expect wage increase. Tarot message: If you are tempted to travel overseas don't waste money by financing the trip yourself. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 27

PISCES: If you are not okay about a relationship finance or career issues, take positive action rather than stewing about it. Keep a low profile and bide your time. A Taurean lover figures prominently. Tarot message: Dare to accomplish those tasks which normally take up a lot of time. Lucky colour: Camel. Magic number: 40

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is May 16...

Put your energy into self-improvement projects. The formula for success is to invest your money on people's advice. Misunderstandings with those you love get resolved. Use your power of discretion in love. Be polite and charming to everyone who stands in your way. Only a selected few will know the secret behind your magical charms. Start meditation and yoga for physical gain, especially mental toughness. New contracts might look lucrative but will not bring gains as desired. Do not make hasty decisions when it comes to investing money. Stay away from people who are likely to influence you with bad habits. You may find true love this year and may live in its ecstasy forever. Stay away from gossip and rumours.

Whether it's on a personal level or work wise, the image being projected counts extra as June begins. A positive attitude and a positive spin are paramount. This year will mean taking initiatives, which could be slightly rash in the workplace but remember that initiative pays! Students will have to work hard but are assured success in their exams. You must concentrate on studies from early in the year since the planets are not favourably disposed during the times of the exams. Any lapses in studies or neglect are certain to result in failure. Businessmen must not make any large investments for the first couple of months since a setback is foreseen.

Routine work will possibly slow down but no major loss is seen if you just continue with your present activities. New friends are likely in making powerful connections in power, money and privilege. Your best pals seem most accommodating. You will have a nice time with your friends. Your health will be generally good. Those in the age group of 45-65 may require attention. You need to guard against respiratory problems or monitor your blood pressure, for you may be susceptible to heart ailments.

Mood: Pumped and in need of 'standing over' your sound 'psychological state' to ensure personal issues do not 'unseat it.' Compatible signs: Virgo, Capricorn. Lucky colours: Orange, Pale. Lucky days: Monday and Wednesday. Lucky numbers: 5, 11, 15, 22, 25, 51. Lucky gem: Pearl or Moon Stone. Lucky flower: White rose.

Kulraj Kaur Randhawa (May 16, 1983 Dehradun) who shot to fame after her role as the bubbly Kareena shares the birthday with you. In 2006 this Punjabi actor acted with Jimmy Shergill in a Punjabi film Mannat. Randhawa acted in a film called Tera Mera Ki Rishta as Rajjo. Her movie Yamla Pagla Deewana did very well at the box office. In her date of birth number 6 is prime number which represents Venus. She is a Taurean which means her zodiacal sign is also represented by Venus. So predominance of Venus, which represents films and glamour in astrology, promises a shining career in the years to come.





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