Life through lens
Ana Maria Mauad, visual historian from Rio De Janeiro, feels with the older models of camera it was easier to distinguish a bad shot from a good one
Ashima Batish

There is a flash after flash after flash. Shot at the speed of 20 clicks per minute by almost every photojournalist present at the occasion, Ana Maria Mauad doesn't get much time to bring variety to her face expressions. The photo session begins and ends in a jiffy, that's a boon of the digital cameras. But Ana is more concerned about the bane, the thought of which in all probability won't occur to those who possess a digi-cam; who go on clicking endlessly. "With the older models of camera, it was easier to distinguish a bad shot from a good shot. It was much simpler to choose the best picture for archives that now help us analyse history," says Ana, who was in Chandigarh to attend the Chandigarh Sahitya Academy's annual round up.

For someone who is a visual historian, who draws socio-cultural inferences from photographs of certain time-periods, archiving the right pictures is very important. Ana picks up a sound example from history to justify her concern, "The Che Guevara picture that we see on T-shirts was originally clicked by Korda, a Cuban photographer. The picture has so much of impact that it is still a part of our present times. Earlier a lot of attention was paid to one click, now nobody keeps a count of clicks."

A professor at the University of Federal Fluminense, at Rio De Janeiro, in Brazil, she has been theorising history through pictures of Civil War in the US and now plans to do the same with the Indian Independence history. "Each photograph has a story behind. It may sound a bit exaggerated but each photograph even has a biography. It narrates the story of times when it was clicked, it is also indicative of the mind set of people then." But at the same time, she says what photos chronicle might not be the truth. "We should never forget that a picture is an extension of the photographer's viewpoint. It can't be objective; in fact the complete history is subjective. We can empirically deal with a picture only if we give equal importance to its source."

Next topic, she is keen on studying is Category of Public Photographs, which has in its domain, photos that appear in newspapers and magazines, "Which thereby reflect the condition of a state." When in India, however, it's not easy to not get influenced by the diverse culture. "A look at photos of women from different states, and I got an idea as to how rich the culture of India is. They dress up differently, live differently, and thus mirror India." She doesn't need to pick up history books to know it all. A picture can actually say a thousand words, provided the right shot is picked.

ashima@tribunemail.com

For one and all

As much as she is bothered about click-just-about-anything, she is equally hassled by just everything that is posted on the social networking sites. "Clicking pictures is a serious business, you post a picture with a wrong message and it can create problems we shudder to even imagine." Technology, she says has made all of us photographers but all photographs don't refer to anything sensible.

A suite-able team
Manpriya Singh

FAMOUS FIVE: The cast of The Suite Life Of Karan and Kabir Photo: Pradeep Tewari
FAMOUS FIVE: The cast of The Suite Life Of Karan and Kabir Photo: Pradeep Tewari

Those who've tuned into the American sitcom The Suite Life of Zack and Cody don't need much of a backgrounder. For the rest, the cast and crew of Disney's The Suite Life of Karan and Kabir, ensure they dish as near experience of a life in a suit as possible in fifteen minutes of interaction. Never mind the conceptual glitches, sitting pretty in the suite at Taj were, Shruti Seth, Damandeep Singh, Shiv Shakti Sachdev and along with the winners from Chandigarh. There's a volley of questions and almost a rally of stars.

Telly tale
shruti seth

An actor, a presenter, a model, a television artist, among the half a dozen roles that she plays in real life, playing a mother to two should have perhaps made her duck and cover. For some reason, Shruti Seth, believes in talent more than tags. "As an actor to be able to play what you are not is the biggest challenge. If I play a thief doesn't mean I'm one. Moreover, it was a fun role, in which I'm a very playful mother to these brattish kids on the show. The character isn't limited." That's not the only end of the clichés and the well rehearsed lines about "projects in the pipeline about which nothing can be disclosed". She says, "As of now, I have nothing in the pipeline. There's Comedy Circus and this show is doing so well, that we'll soon have second season of it." She adds, "Television is a big commitment, I have to be really excited about he role to be able to give 30 days a month to it." There's yet another trivia. The economics graduate battled with stage fright all through her school life. "I hate to pass on this message but our Indian education system never really prepares you for the real talent and thing." She adds, "I didn't choose to be a part of the profession, the profession chose me."

Dubbing dose
damandeep singh baggan

Damandeep Singh Baggan fell in love with the character while dubbing for it and that was it for him. "I always found this guy Maan Singh brilliant, he's strict and fun to play. While I used to be dubbing for him, I was offered to play the role, what more could I ask for." Among the host of shows and characters that he dubs for, there's the classic Veeru from Sholay that he pines for. "Sholay's Dharamji is what I'd like to play." In the pipeline is a, "film script revolving around the lives of two people who lead extremely different lives."

manpriya@tribunemail.com

Winning glory

Their fifteen minutes of fame is spread over thirty days and spent in the suite of a five star hotel. All Sukanya, had to do was, watch the show, answer a couple of questions.

And voila the nine year old from Manav Mangal Smart School, can't believe her luck. "I'm obviously excited to be spending a month in a suite and getting to live a life like that of Karan and Kabir." Her counterparts from Ahmedabad and Lucknow are getting to live theirs in probably their respective cities.

United colours of art
An art fair comes to Chandigarh, opening its doors to artists and art lovers
Vasudha Gupta

Paint it red: Johny ML and Annurag Sharma Photo: Pradeep Tewari
Paint it red: Johny ML and Annurag Sharma Photo: Pradeep Tewari

Watching an art lover take an initiative to promote art and push all boundaries to ensure that it is the biggest art event, is nothing less than overwhelming for the art community. Annurag Sharma, founder-director of the United Art Fair has put in enough labour in giving shape to his dreams. In Chandigarh, for the official declaration of the fair, Sharma spoke about the germination of the idea and how it's shaping up.

With a background in logistics for art, Annurag's tryst with colours and canvas came long back. "There was a time in 2007-2008 that India jumped at every available opportunity to collect fine art," he shares. But after that there was a sharp decline in fondness for art that ignited the idea in Sharma's mind.

Focused around bringing artists and art lovers together from all across India, Annurag has been travelling to different regions, inviting artists and talking about the fair. "My idea is not to make it a commercial venture but to ensure that I have talented, young artists from all over India and can provide them a platform for showcasing their talent," he adds. Annurag's journey began from Baroda which brought him face-to-face with a young artist, whose family refused to give him money to pursue his passion. This reinforced Sharma's thoughts. "There are several young artists, who don't have the means to support their art. I hope to bring them under the guidance of experts," he adds. Planning to gather a mix of national and international artists, the panel will select over 500 artists and showcase around 3000 works at Pragati Maidan between September 27-30. It was after Annurag had finalised the finer details of the event that an art expert stepped in.

Johny ML, project director and head of the screening committee is taking complete responsibility of meeting the artists. "I was aware of what was going on in Annurag's mind and was excited when he approached me to be a part of the project," Johny shares. With expert knowledge in art, there is not an ounce of doubt that only the best of the lot will be selected for this buyer-collector-investor-art lover meet.

With an agenda to create interest among the new generation and updating them about how vital it is to appreciate art, Annurag also hopes it will create an emotional connect with the field. The fair will also provide artists the opportunity to interact with experts of the industry and widen their own horizon as well. Sharing his ideology, Annurag says, “It’s like looking at gallaries as universities and students as scholars. My attempt is to take the scholars to the university.

The fair will display sculptures, art on canvas and performance art. Several leading artists have already been approached for the same. “The category of performance arts cannot be pre rehearsed and the artistes will be able to intervene in any given situation,” Johny shares.

Here's hoping all those in love with paints, colours and brushes find a great platform and paint the world red.

vasudha@tribunemail.com

coming soon
Wings of change

Wings Theatre Academy, a theatre academy for children in the region, opened three months ago to promote theatre in education and nurture talent of the children in the tri city. Theatre is used as an important educational tool worldwide. Students experience a plethora of emotions through this medium and learn to handle them on their own. Wings Theatre Academy aims to provide kids with a safe and secure environment whereby they get empowered to express their intellect and creativity.

The play, Mother’s Day is a tribute to every mother, whose boundless love and care are often overlooked. The students of the Group C of the academy from Classes 9 to 12 have teamed up to work into this play under the direction of Zubin Mehta. The play will take the audiences through one day in the lives of the Pearson family. The events of one day change their lives forever and teach them some invaluable lessons.

With a cast of 19 children and Inayat Sood as the protagonist, Annie Pearson, the play is being staged on May 30 at 6.45 pm at the St. Kabir’s auditorium for the audience. The entry is free on first –come- first basis where the gates for entry open at 6.30pm.

Go full throttle
Jasmine Singh

It is a hangover of a different sort. Maneuvering your vehicle through bumpy courses, slush, sand beds sure shoots up the adrenaline. And if this is done under the sweltering sun, we just leave it for you to imagine and experience.

While for those who went off roading on Sunday as part of Tata Motors Full Throttle Trail, an extreme off roading property for Tata Motors SUV owners going off the track was sure an experience.

With nearly 35 vehicles queued up neatly to hit the rugged terrain on the track specially prepared at two different locations at Mullanpur, slush, mud, rocks, the vehicles were put to test and so were the driving skills. The participants needed to complete the trail within the stipulated time.

For Anand Totla, regional manager, PCBU North 1, Tata Motors Ltd it was not only an off roading experience, but also a chance where customers can test their machines as well. “Through this initiative, a total of 21 trails’ have been planned over the next few months, with each course being planned  to exhibit the thrill, ruggedness, toughness and handling of SUV’s, in off-road conditions. “ Even of the track is not everybody’s cup of tea, as Aman Sekhon, 28, maneuvered his Tata Safari to cut through the slush and mud. “Such experiences not only give an insight about the vehicle but are a test for the driver as well. Off roading is anyways getting popular in India as well.”

Tip off

  • Off-road driving involves healthy doses of common sense, patience and skill.
  • It’s not mastered instantly, but with practice, you’ll be driving more safely and ultimately having more fun.
  • Tread lightly – don’t be in a hurry to take your vehicle out of slush or mud
  • Know your vehicle well. Check all details before off roading.

Bag it right
Jasmine Singh

Travel is the first thing on mind when you think about a long weekend or summer holidays. And when travel is on mind so is the weird thought of packing in the entire wardrobe in the bag. Save yourself from this thought, and then think about smart packing. Delsey travel luggage comes to Chandigarh at Elegance store sector-17 offering a range of ‘smart’ luggage options.

Nitin Srivastava, marketing head Delsey shares the idea behind bringing in smart, stylish and colourful bags and other travel accessories to Chandigarh. “With more and more people travelling, the focus on smart bags as luggauge has also increased. Businessmen prefer to carry compact smart bags with bold and clear lines in black, blue or grey shades. While women like to go in for glossy and bright shades,” he says.

These collections are designed in France in tandem with the latest trends and with a great focus on fashion, colours and design. “We also keep in mind consumer requirements and international airline baggage allowances,” adds Nitin. The products are priced between Rs 3,500-Rs. 21,000.

trend setter
Standing tall

Gursheen Kaur Photo: Himanshu Mahajan
Gursheen Kaur Photo: Himanshu Mahajan

Being stylish has become more interesting and exciting now, with everybody wanting to look their best. Tall and willowy, Dr Gursheen Kaur sure wants to be a trendy medico—

Your sense of style…

Cool colours in summer, bright in rainy season and dark in winter is what I really like and appreciate.

Latest addition to your wardrobe

My elegant watch from Tissot.

Brand crazy or street pick-ups?

Anything that looks good and is trendy will do. No holds barred!

Your style icon

Sonam Kapoor and Kim Kardashan.

Who do you think is the worst-dressed celebrity?

Mahie Gill.

Which look would your prefer – sporty, chic or glamorous?

Depends on the occasion, glamorous or casual.

One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension…

Wearing sporty shoes with formal wear.

Your take on accessories

Accessories like scarves, stoles and some trinkets make one look wow.

Which designer you would like to be dressed by?

Ritu Beri.

What gives you confidence?

If I am comfortable in what I am wearing

(As told to Poonam Bindra)

TWEETIE PIE

Sophie Choudry Sophie Choudry

@Sophie_Choudry

Does anyone else feel like hangin their head in shame after watching Junior Masterchef? How can these kids cook like that?! Incredible!

— Sophie, its about time we really step into the kitchen and not get ebrassed by tiny tots playing chef on television. Time for a reality check.

Lara Dutta BhupathiLara Dutta Bhupathi

@DuttaLara

Super lower body workout at the gym today! Really feeling the burn! Trainer going to be hiccupping a lot this evening!!!!

— Lara, just consider yourself lucky. After all, this is the exact time in life where not everyone is looking for fat. Look at poor Aishwaya Rai.

Karan JoharKaran Johar

@kjohar25

It was a room full of positivity,grace and high fashion!!! I feel blessed to have such wonderful equations.....

— Considering you have the biggest camp in Bollywood, no one, seriously no one wants to spoil their equation with you.

Sonam KapoorSonam Kapoor

@sonamakapoor

I suggest that people don't believe everything you read or hear or see, till there is proof!

— You yourself are a big enough proof Sonam, you really don’t leave anything to imagination.

(Complied by Vasudha Gupta)

I want it that way...

Bollywood actress and ex Miss India, Gul Panag, has a unique sense of style. Unlike other Bollywood babes who'd shriek at the thought of breaking a nail, Gul likes to play rough. She rides bikes and sports denims and t-shirts most of the time. However, the actress says she isn't really a fashionista and likes to wear what makes her feel comfortable.

We catch up with Fatso star, Gul Panag, to find out her take on fashion and beauty.

Define your style…

My style is mostly casual. I believe in being practical. I also believe in clothes being comfortable. I pick clothes that are easy to wear daily. And luckily, I don't have any areas that I need to hide.

Are you an impulsive shopper?

I am not an impulsive shopper at all. At least 90% of my shopping is done by my husband. He buys things when he goes out and he knows exactly what I want. I enter a shop and I know exactly what I want to buy and what I like. Also, at shoots, we have stylists who pick up the clothes and accessories for me. They do their research and homework, so I'm happy to wear the clothes they choose.

Do you have a personal stylist?

I don't. Stylists do make you look good but I am honestly not a fashionista. I usually go to Anita Dongre's store because I've been closely associated with her in the past and admire her designs. People working with me know what I like so I don't have to struggle too much with picking clothes.

Five wardrobe must-haves:

  • A good black shirt. It can look formal as well as casual.
  • Funky t-shirts paired with denims.
  • A good pair of denims, you always need them.
  • A pair of classy brogue shoes.
  • A good pair of sunglasses. I love Ray-Ban aviators.

Five essential beauty items:

  • Wear sunscreen no matter what the weather.
  • Hand sanitiser and tissues. It comes in handy in a polluted city like Mumbai.
  • A nice perfume.
  • A lip balm to keep your lips hydrated and well moisturised.
  • A Swiss knife. You can shape your nails and do other things with it.

Gul's style tips

  • Don't be a victim of fashion. What looks good in photographs may not necessarily look good on you. Always purchase clothes you feel comfortable in.
  • Be confident of yourself. It's more important how you feel in your clothes. Everyone has their own style. For instance, you can't carry off a biker chick outfit if you don't feel like one.
  • Get clothes that are classic. They never go out of style and they are versatile.
  • Always keep your personality in mind before buying anything.
  • Wear clothes that flatter your body type.
  • Always dress according to the weather and occasion. I obviously can't go to an Indian wedding in a nice little black dress.
  • Make sure you wear comfortable shoes. You are not going to look perfect if you cannot walk properly.
  • I personally love getting plain t-shirts with a message on them. It's more like a personal statement that you make through clothes.
  • Try and be a little adventurous. It's fun adding something quirky or funky to your everyday look. A leather bag, a funky jacket or a wild accessory serves as an icing to your look.

Favourite style icons:

In Hollywood, it's Rachel Weisz. I like the way she carries herself. In Bollywood, I admire Rekha's style.

My favorite designers:

I like designers Anita Dongre, Mandira Wirk and Urvashi Kaur. — HRM

Beat the heat with Jacqueline

The pretty girl has been a dazzling ray of sunshine in lacklustre films like Aladin and Jaane Kahan Se Aayi Hai. The fresh face is making waves in Bollywood and on the red carpet. She was most recently seen in Housefull 2 after sizzling in Murder 2. She shares some summer care tips.

Water babe

Drink plenty of coconut water or lemon juice because that cools the body and refreshes you and also satisfies sugar cravings. Drink at least 3-4 litres of water. Go for swimming early in the morning or in the evening.

Keep it cool

Apply sunscreen of SPF 50 at least half-an-hour before stepping out. Wash, tone and moisturise you face twice a day. Use fresh or citrus fragrances. Use talc. Bathe using cold water. Remember that the heat affects your mood so try and stay cool mentally.

Be positive

Wear cotton clothes in bright colours because they have a positive effect on your energy. Do Yoga in the morning because that sets a positive tone for the day. There are some breathing techniques to keep cool too.

Chill out

Go for a holiday to a cold place in India or abroad. There is nothing like snow and cool breeze. Stay indoors if you like and organise sleepovers with friends and catch up on your favourite movies.

Eat fresh

Stay away from spicy, processed and oily foods as they create more heat in your body and also curb those chocolate cravings. Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables and salads. — HRM

Melbourne, here they come!

Rajkumar Hirani and Rituparno Ghosh are among the film-makers scheduled to hold master's classes at the third edition of the Indian Film Festival (IFF) in Melbourne from June 11-22. Designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee will host a workshop as well. Others who will take classes at the 12-day event include writer Abhijat Joshi and actor-turned-director Jugal Hansraj.

Hirani and Joshi, who have been behind blockbusters like the Munnabhai series and 3 Idiots, will share insights about how to tickle the audience's funny bone with intelligent scripts.

National award-winning film-maker Ghosh, popular for Bengali films like Chokher Bali and Nauka Dubi, will take to the dais to talk about the culture of art house cinema. His session is expected to be a treat for lovers of realistic cinema.

With animation getting increasingly popular in Indian cinema, Hansraj, who directed the country's first ever three-dimensional (3D) mainstream animation project, will talk about the genre. He will also share his views on what's needed for Indian animators to make it big. Bollywood's popular designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee, known for styling actors like Vidya Balan, Rani Mukerji and Madhuri Dixit, will talk about the importance of fabric in Indian films. — IANS

No baby blues

After announcing her pregnancy on stage at the MTV Video Music Awards last year, pop diva Beyonce Knowles returned to perform in front of her fans for the first time since giving birth. The 30-year-old singer, who gave birth to her first child Blue Ivy Carter with husband Jay-Z in January, wowed the sold-out crowd on the first of a three-night stint at the Revel Resort & Casino in Atlantic City at the Revel New Jersey.

She appeared to be in fine form, shimmying her way through her impressive catalogue of hits, from relatively new tracks like Halo to Destiny's Child classics like Jumpin' Jumpin." Before taking to the stage, Beyonce said she was nervous about going back to work, reported a publication.

"I feel a little nervous. I'm enjoying being a mother so it's like going back to my old job, and it's a little strange. But it's important that you don't lose yourself and still have your own passions. And so I'm back to work, I'm back to business," she said.

Her rapper husband Jay-Z, who recently returned from the London leg of his Watch The Thrones tour with Kanye West, was present at the show to lend support. Beyonce also said becoming a mother has made her more grounded, which she aims to portray while on stage. "What I'm trying to say in the show is, 'Yes I had a baby. It just made me more grounded and more like you'," she said. — PTI

Co-host with the most

Joining in: Farhan Akhtar Actor-director Farhan Akhtar is all set to co-host the upcoming 13th International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards ceremony with Shahid Kapoor. On June 9, Farhan will bring his charm and wit to the awards stage enthralling the film fraternity and over 800 million viewers in Lion City of Singapore.

Performances that have already been announced for the IIFA Awards so far include Prabhu Deva, Shahid, Bipasha Basu and Sonakshi Sinha. Actor-director-choreographer Prabhu Deva will also be choreographing the dance performances for the first time ever. The IIFA weekend will be hosted from June 7-9 this year, as a celebration of Indian Cinema showcasing the best of Indian Film Industry on the global stage. — PTI

I won’t restrict myself: Arjun Kapoor

Keep it up: Arjun Kapoor His recently released debut film Ishaqzaade has garnered a lot of praise and actor Arjun Kapoor says he wants to live up to everybody's expectations by experimenting with his roles. The 26-year-old son of producer Boney Kapoor said, though he has not decided what project to pick up next, he doesn't want to stick to one genre and wants to explore himself as an actor.

"I have never really thought about what I want to do and what I wish to avoid. I am open to everything and want to be seen as an actor who can do everything. I am not restricting myself to any characterisation and don't wish to get typecast. I would be happy to do a sweet rom-com or a hardcore masala film," Arjun said. The actor also believes his big break in Bollywood has nothing to do with his father's name and talent is of utmost importance to survive in the industry. — PTI

Barely there: ( R ) Halle Berry Eau de natural

Halle Berry says she hardly ever wears makeup because she prefers to go for the natural look to give her skin a break. The 45-year-old actress counts only a good lip balm as a beauty must-have, reported a publication.

"I hardly ever wear make-up. I like to give my skin a break - let it breathe," Berry said. The actress also said snubbing smoking and excessive drinking has helped her skin glow and become healthy. "It's cleansing your skin, watching what you eat, no smoking, not too much drinking, no sugar - just simple. And using sunscreen! If you don't have a good base, then it doesn't matter what you put on it - it's not going to look as great as it could." — PTI

Drawing the line

Reservations galore: Robert Pattinson Twilight actor Robert Pattinson refused to bare all for his new movie Cosmopolis. The British heartthrob says that although he is a huge fan of the director and had promised to do anything he asked, he drew the line at frontal nudity.

Five minutes before the filming began, the director asked Pattinson to do the racy scene but the actor found it difficult and declined. "He took it really well. At the start, it's a very bizarre scene that you won't see again in another movie, I promise," Pattinson said.

While the 26-year-old enjoyed making the movie, based on the novel by Don DeLillo, Pattinson said he was anxious he would not be good enough for the role. "I spent two weeks in a hotel room worrying and confusing myself," he said. — PTI

CHATTER BOX

Karanvir Bohra Love in the making

Sriti Jha Actor Harshad Chopra, who has won several hearts with his smile in Dil Se Di Dua… Saubhagyavati Bhavo on Life OK, he has won Jhanvi’s trust, the young victim of domestic violence. Harshad Chopra After a dramatic escape from her husband Viraj, Jhanvi (Sriti Jha) has finally regained her confidence with the help of her ‘friend’ Raghav. But now, Viraj (Karanvir Bhora) is back and has every intention of taking Jhanvi with him – even if it means he has to get rid of Raghav.  But has Jhanvi met his match in Raghav and will Raghav be able to protect Jhanvi?

Karmic connection

Actor Angad Hasija, who was last seen in Ram Milayi Jodi, loves to play pranks, gym and shop. In a candid talk, we discover more about this actor…

Know me better: Angad HasijaWhat are you most passionate about?

I am most passionate about my work and gym. Work because I love it and I never get bored of it. Gym I love because I am a fitness freak. I like to stay healthy and fit. So whenever I have free time, I always make sure that I workout and keep myself fit and toned.

In one line how would you describe yourself?

I am an honest, simple and caring guy.

Craziest thing you ever did in life…

I wish if there was one to tell you. I have no many crazy stories and pranks that I have played on people. Like for instance, during Bidaai days, Kinshuk and I played a prank on Sara Khan. There was a journalist on the sets but Sara didn’t know about it. So we asked him to help us play a prank on her. He asked him to beg Sara to marry him and say that he is her biggest fan. He did so and Sara initially ignored him. But later, she started panicking. Shortly, she was in all tears. So towards the end of having lots of fun, we finally told her about the prank.

Tell us something that people do not know about you.

I am a guy who believes in doing Karma. I am very spiritual. Also, I like to read horror novels.

What is the one mantra that you completely swear by?

No matter how tough the situation around you is, always believe in yourself and the almighty God. Good things are sure to come your way.

Thanking God: Tina Dutta Seeking divine blessings

Producer Rupali Guha, of Colors’ show Uttaran, had a Mata Ki Chowki on the sets of her show. Cast members Pratima Kazmi, Beena, Tina Dutta, Sreejita De, Chaitanya Choudhary, Vikas Bhalla were present. There was no shooting that day and everyone thanked Goddess for their success.

Thanking God: Tina Dutta

The comedy goes on

Laughter riot: The judges panel of Comedy Circus Ki Kahani Sony’s Kahani Comedy Circus Ki will not end in May as it has got an extension. It will continue till July 2012 and take a break for a month. Comedy Circus completed successful 300 episodes. The makers couldn’t be more thrilled with the development.

Laughter riot: The judges panel of Comedy Circus Ki Kahani

Fresh venture: Ekta KapoorExploring new dreams

Ekta kapoor’s new show on MTV India which is based loosely on the hit American series - Gossip Girl will now be called Friendship Baazi. The story is about four teenage girls in 12th standard and their lives and loves. It will go on air in August.

Fresh venture: Ekta Kapoor

Opening shortly

Rowdy Rathore releases this Friday and there is plenty of hype around the movie. As the title suggests, the stars have taken to the streets. The film is expected to have first day collections of Rs 27 crore, according to trade analysts.

The guest list

Both Priyanka Chopra and Kareena Kapoor attended Karan Johar’s fortieth birthday bash. Preity and Rani were also there. We wonder what transpired between these ladies and if they met, what did they talk about?

Woman on top

Sanjay Dutt’s wife Maanayata will now run his production company as CEO. He has sacked Dharm Uberoi post the bad reviews he has received for Department.

Back to life

Shilpa Shetty has been discharged from hospital. She and husband Raj Kundra were seen leaving the hospital recently with their boy.

ASTRO TURF
P Khurrana

ARIES: Try to reduce the amount of cash you spend. New attractions are likely to be serious. Do not hold back anything from your boss. Talk to your counselor before approaching joint resources. Tarot message: Don’t waste an opportunity by being rash or impulsive. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 44.

TAURUS: Check all your jointly-held funds. Your friends and support network are all behind you at the moment. A new project can get the go-ahead and engage your attention single-mindedly. A female colleague could trouble you. Tarot message: Keep your eyes on the future as you do so. Lucky colour: Fiery red. Magic number: 28.

GEMINI: Not the right day for speculation. Pace yourself, since your energy levels can be low. You will find that many of your negative emotions are coming from external sources. Tarot message: Don’t do anything at the cost of health. Time will heal all pains and wounds. Lucky colour: Lotus Pink. Magic number: 33.

CANCER: Get all affairs in order. Travel to different cultures, eat foods from different nations, and take up studies in a subject that inspires your personal and spiritual growth. Tarot message: Be positive; you can make things happen out of the most unlikely circumstances. Lucky colour: Peacock blue. Magic number: 36.

LEO: Seek publicity for business plans. You are unlikely to get much chance to relax this evening. As the day progresses, things will be sorted out if you are willing to be honest. Plan a romantic evening today. Tarot message: Do not be in the rush to spend extravagantly. Lucky colour: Silver grey. Magic number: 54.

VIRGO: Your card “The Magician” castes smiles on health. Useful day for discussing long term plans. Your energy levels are at a peak. Some of you might be busy packing for a journey, so be prepared for well-wishers. Tarot message: Spend time meeting experienced people. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 37.

LIBRA: The “Queen of Swords” reveals that new love attractions are likely to be serious. A positive self-image will warm your heart. If you are shopping for a gift, stick to your budget. Tarot message: Be positive; you can make things happen out of the most unlikely circumstances. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 56.

SCORPIO: Students should expect extra pocket money. Your patient stand will begin paying dividends. Lovers: avoid meeting today. Any projects connected with study, travel and cultural pursuits will be very satisfying. Tarot message: Don’t try to end all the deadlocks at one go. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 25

SAGITTARIUS: You may find the day quite tiring. A new romance is on the offing. Your expectations could lead you down the garden path. Try not to rely on anybody, but friends, to help you achieve your goals right now. Tarot message: Do not trivial problems haunt you. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 28

CAPRICORN: A relative may behave in a rather unpredictable way. Early morning surprises can turn into afternoon achievements. Take a lunch a break and forget the million and one things you have to do. Tarot message: Capitalise on your strength and do not trust others. Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 32.

AQUARIUS: It would be wise to see a health professional. An interest in alternative lifestyles and travel may give you the impetus to attend a festival or workshop in personal development. Tarot message: Don’t do anything at the cost of health. Time will heal all pains and wounds. Lucky colour: Cherry red. Magic number: 43.

PISCES: A sudden improvement in your fortune is indicated. This could be a time of sweeping changes. This is also a positive time for business partnerships and joint ventures of all descriptions. Tarot message: Lack of persistence can be disastrous in business matters. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 47.

THE YEAR AHEAD
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is May 28...

No one can doubt your determination to move ahead. You're attracting adventurous companions and finding that all team and group activities will go on smooth. Not only that, you'll be invited out to grand parties. The position of Venus in your astro chart is giving a definite boost to your social prospects, even though she turns tail tomorrow. Keep sprucing up your appearance. If you make the effort to charm the influential people around you'll be pleased with the result. Many directions like construction, overhauling or spiritual session will entice you.

Support of influential people will boost to your moral. Investment in stocks and mutual funds is recommended for long-term gains. This year will bring a favorable time for domestic chores and finishing pending household jobs. Your eyes are so bright that they can light up a dark night of your lover. Jupiter and Saturn will bring several reasons to feel pleased. Things will be good at work with great chances for travel. You may be able to make money; however, expenses are also seen. Controlling expenses will be vital. Relationships will remain moderate. Take care of your teeth and eyes.

Number one and the power of the sun provide you innovativeness, diligence, kindness and decency. The series of flourishing and blooming decisions will shine you in the society provided you curtail your careless, raring and hot-headed nature. You should wrap up your expenses to save for the future. Time is golden for your pocket to invest and to save.

A personality conflict might be unavoidable. You'll be charismatic, energetic and charming and eventually, because of this, you will be given a difficult project to carry out. Part-timers will be able to cultivate new interests and find a way to improve their self esteem and determination.

Kylie Ann MinogueThe work assigned to you might be a test of your expertise and knowledge. Therefore you should put all your efforts into this task. Its successful completion will bring many other offers your way. Mood: Emotional and often distracted. Compatible signs: Gemini, Pisces. Lucky colours: Grey, Electric blue. Lucky days: Saturday and Sunday. Lucky numbers: 2, 8, 19, 22, 28. Lucky gem: Yellow Sapphire and Red coral. Lucky flower: Sun flower.

Kylie Ann Minogue (May 28, 1968 Melbourne, Victoria) is an Australian pop singer-songwriter and occasional actress. She gained prominence through her role in the Australian television soap opera Neighbours. She has sold in excess of 60 million records, and has achieved her greatest successes in Australia, Europe, Asia and Latin America. She was awarded for commitment to music.





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