Chill out
With summer at its peak, here are a few ways to beat the heat…
Mona

Like each year, summer is here and in full bloom! Only that this kind of ‘bloom’ is unwelcome to most of us. And it all, veritably, ‘boils’ down to a war between the sun beating us down and we arming ourselves for the onslaught! Here a few tips on how to protect one’s skin, hair and overall health in this once-a-year-few-months-battle!

While staying indoors is one option, exposure to this harsh sun can result in trouble, especially for the ones with sensitive skin. Sun-block is one option, but that is not enough. Says Dr SD Mehta, skin specialist at the Government Multispecialty Hospital, Sector-16, Chandigarh, “Cotton clothes provide the best cover. Do invest in a fine mulmul full jacket, which one must wear whenever stepping out in the sun even if it’s for a brief time. Those riding two-wheelers should wear helmets with visors.” Whether you are a working person who has to run around or a homemaker, do wear the jacket rather than facing peak sun even if you are out for drying clothes or walking from the parking to the office. For the face, he suggests covering it with a cotton dupatta not only in the sun, but also when working in the kitchen in front of the gas.

There are a variety of sun-blocks available in the market, but choosing one to suit your skin type is quite a challenge. Dr Ashima Goel, dermatologist and dermatolaser surgeon at Parisa Skin Cosmetic and Laser Centre, Chandigarh, says, “I would recommend sunscreen with at least SPF 50 and medicated ones that are available at the counter.” If hair trouble is what you are facing, she suggests conditioners and medicated hair serums, “Not only they provide bounce to otherwise rough, brittle and frizzy hair but also save them harmful exposure to the sun.”

Heat takes its toll on one’s health as well, and eating right is the key here. “Avoid eating out as gastroenteritis cases are common in this season,” says Dr Sumit Jain, medical consultant at JP Hospital, Zirakpur. Drinking plenty of water and having seasonal fruit is way to restore water loss in body. It’s even better to carry ones’ water bottle along.

Staying indoors is what Dr Sumit advises during peak hours (12-4) and also warns of not taking dehydration symptoms lightly, “In case of vomitting and diarrhoea, report to any health centre immediately.” He warns that moving in and out of air-conditioned settings can be harmful. “Switch off the AC a few minutes before you walk out in the heat,” he says.

mona@tribunemail.com

Home remedies
In summer, it’s important to nourish you body internally as well as externally. Coconut water is your best bet, as it’s packed with minerals. Sugarcane juice is another effective coolant. A big bowl of watermelon in the mornings prepares one well for a hot day ahead. To soothe sun damaged skin, mix cucumber, watermelon, apricot; put in a few drops of lemon juice and mix it with oatmeal. Apply this paste on your face for fifteen minutes and wash it off. For the hair, mix rosemary and jojoba oil, it nourishes hair as well as saves you from the harmful effects of the sun.

Betty Nangia, Beauty and Naturopath Consultant.

Must haves
Broad-brimmed hat
Oversized umbrella
Water bottle
Cotton jacket
Huge sunglasses

Small steps to stardom
In Chandigarh for the shoot of Zee TV’s serial Rab Se Sona Ishq, actors Ssanjay Swaraj and Ashish Sharma talk about their respective journeys in the world of acting
Sabia Talwar

At first sight, you feel Ssanjay Swaraj resembles actor Chandrachur Singh and the moment you compliment him he agrees that he is quite used to the same. Ssanjay comes from Hathras, a small town in Uttar Pradesh, and is taking rapid strides in the industry. “Hathras is a very small place near Aligarh and at a very young age, I got in touch with nautanki style of folk theatre,” opines Ssanjay.

After that Ssanjay moved to Ghaziabad and thereafter to Delhi where he enrolled with the National School of Drama. Says Ssanjay, “I would call it a combination of destiny and karma that I joined such a great institution, which nurtured my acting skills.” Ssanjay’s first break was with the serial Om Namah Shivay where he played the role of Indra; at the same time he did Sanjay Khan’s serial Great Maratha. “During this time I was in Delhi and had auditioned for these roles,” adds Ssanjay.

From telly town to Bollywood streets, Ssanjay has experienced it all. “Last year, I did two movies, Chitkabrey and Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s My Friend Pinto, both of them did not work out that well. Then I have done movies like Gangajal, Musafir, Atithi Tum Kab Jaoge?, Mangal Pandey, Abisandhi, a Bengali flick which was critically acclaimed, and many more,” says Ssanjay. The actor has done a Bhojpuri and a Tamil movie as well and is intrigued by new languages. Says Ssanjay, “I know Hindi, Punjabi, Haryanavi, Persian and a little bit of French as well as Russian.” Ssanjay feels that an actor should know as many languages as possible.

What does the Ssanjay enjoy more — working for television or the big screen? “Both of them, as they have their own learning and challenges,” says Ssanjay. As for the serial he is shooting now, he plays the comic character of Sardar Karnail Singh.

Along with Ssanjay, there is a young guy, Ashish Sharma, whose looks definitely complement his style of talking. “I belong to Jaipur and professionally started acting when I moved to Mumbai after my graduation in fashion designing,” says Ashish.

Later, he joined Anupam Kher’s acting academy in Mumbai for post-graduation. “I started from a Rajasthani regional movie when I was twenty-one years old, wherein I got a chance to play eight different characters.” When Ashish moved to Mumbai, his first serial was Imagine TV’s Gunahon Ka Devta and then Chadragupta Maurya. “I have also done movies like Love, Sex aur Dhoka and Tere Naam Zindagi. I’m in favour of gradually learning and improving,” adds Ashish.

The hunk has surely had his share of struggle in Mumbai and suggests that aspiring youngsters should take small steps towards their goals. “When I went to Mumbai I knew no one and did not know where to start, but gradually I learnt what life is all about.”

In Rab Se Sona Ishq, Ashish will be playing a village guy called Ranveer who is madly in love with his childhood friend and dreams of settling abroad. “The story revolves around today’s generation, which is fighting a constant battle of choosing between their career and love.” Well of what we know, where there is a will there is a definitely a way!

sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com

Forever youthful…

Anil Kapoor is fifty plus but he feels and looks like a guy in his 30s. His career has reached a whole new level post Slumdog Millionaire, 24, and all said and done, Mission: Impossible Ghost Protocol is a landmark film in his career. His career is growing even today. Kapoor talks about being a father, being successful and keeping fit.

I am 50 plus but I feel 20 years younger. I have preserved myself well through good food habits, sleeping well, a positive frame of mind. I also exercise and am constantly active.

I am a very cool dad. I let my children make their own decisions but I am there to guide and support them. Yes, my children have to stick to deadlines but that does not make me a strict parent. I am very approachable and share a frank relationship with my children.

I credit my success to talent and hard work. My family has been very loving and supportive. Money is important but good health, good relationships and good memories make you happy and give you a reason to live.

I don’t rest on my past laurels. I don’t talk about Slumdog Millionaire or Mission: Impossible Ghost Protocol anymore. I am not hung over on those films. I am hungry to do more and better work. I am grateful that I have achieved whatever I have. I believe my career has been unique.

I have always been very secure about myself. I believe the longer it takes you to reach the top, the better it is. If you are talented and hard-working, then success is just a matter of time. One has to be patient as there are no short cuts.

Films done only for money are a painful experience, says actor Irrfan Khan
Irrfan in no hurry

Irrfan Khan, who had his first solo hit in Bollywood with Pan Singh Tomar, says he is in no hurry to sign new films.

"Big bucks can entice anyone but I don't want to end up doing films just for monetary reasons. When you do a film for money, the cash flow does look good but the journey is really a painful experience. I would rather earn less than accept such films where I stay frustrated and irritated on the sets," Irrfan said in an interview.

"I would rather strive for a situation where I can do the kind of work I can do and earn money for the producers and myself. That's my goal."

The 49-year-old actor is returning with Tigmanshu Dhulia for the sequel of Sahib, Biwi Aur Gangster 2. After making waves with Haasil and Tomar, the duo is expected to come up with another interesting story.

"I really like Tigmanshu's idea for the sequel. He was talking to me about some other film. When I casually asked him about the sequel to Saheb Biwi aur Gangster, he said he was still working on the script.

"One day he just came and told me that he had a surprise for me in the form of Saheb.... sequel. I loved the character he explained to me and I was on," says Irrfan, who would be playing a jilted royal out for revenge in the film.

Irrfan will be seen playing the character of Dr Ratha in Hollywood film The Amazing Spider-Man, slated to release this summer.

"Let's see how the character is placed in the story. There is no point talking about it now when I am yet to see the final cut." He will also be seen in Ang Lee's 3D film The Life of Pi, which releases by the end of this year. — PTI 

MJ’s letter under the hammer

A letter that Michael Jackson wrote to former wife Lisa Marie Presley describing his struggle with sleep is to go under the hammer. The King of Pop writes in the letter that he had not slept for days and needed to get away from business people. "I truly need this rest. I haven't slept literally in four days now. I need to be away from phones and business people. I must take care of my health first," Jackson wrote.

He also told his wife that he was "crazy" for her, and signed off the letter under his pet name Turd. Jackson's marriage to Presley lasted from 1994 to 1996.

The letter is predicted to fetch up to USD 1,200 when it goes under the hammer at the Julien's Auctions sale in Beverly Hills next month. — PTI

Another catch

After his debut film Vicky Donor, actor Ayushmann Khurana may land another interesting part as he is in negotiations to star in Tere Bin Laden Part-2. "Ayushmann Khurrana is in talks with the makers of Tere Bin Laden Part-2 but nothing has been finalised as of date," according to a statement on behalf of the actor.

The 27-year-old made a transition from TV to movies with Shoojit Sircar's Vicky Donor where he portrayed the character of a sperm donor.

Ayushmann is already working on Hamara Bajaj where he will play a struggling actor from Agra.

"Hamara Bajaj will be my third film technically. It's the story of a struggling small town actor Sanjay Bajaj from Agra who eventually becomes a star. The film will begin in December. I am about to sign my second project, a good film with a good director," the actor said. — PTI

Cole perfect for my designs: Cavalli

Strong and sexy: Cheryl Cole Fashion designer Roberto Cavalli believes Cheryl Cole is strong, confident and sexy, making her an ideal person to wear his designs. The Italian designer recently dressed the 28-year-old singer for her appearance on talent show The Voice. "Cheryl is the perfect Cavalli woman. Strong, confident and sexy," said Cavalli.

Both the artists put together their creative inputs to design a custom-made outfit in vibrant colours, mixed with leopard prints as well as waistcoat shapes from his spring-summer 2012 collection, for Cole's performance on the show.

Cavalli said it was a pleasure to work with Cole.

"Cheryl and I have had a relationship for many years. It was a great pleasure to collaborate with her in designing an outfit, especially for her performance on The Voice. We used the signature Cavalli Fantasia and leopard prints to create a show-stopping outfit that enhanced her high-octane performance," he added. — IANS

Madge’s big mash up

Queen of Pop Madonna seems set to acknowledge the similarities between her track Express Yourself and Lady Gaga's Born This Way by rehearsing to a mash-up of the two tracks for her upcoming tour.

A behind-the-scenes video of the 4 Minutes hitmaker during rehearsals in Tel Aviv, Israel popped out via YouTube on Sunday, displaying her singing the chorus of the Gaga anthem midway through the performance of her 1989 track.

Upon its release back in 2011, Born This Way quickly gained attention for its similarity to Madge's Express Yourself.

When addressing the controversy, Gaga had said, "The only similarities are the chord progression. Just because I'm the first artist in 25 years to think of putting it on Top 40 radio, it doesn't mean I'm a plagiarist, it means that I'm smart." Madonna had also shared her thought on the rip-off rumour, saying, "I thought, 'What a wonderful way to redo my song'. I mean, I recognised the chord changes. I thought it was...interesting."

She is set to kick off her MDNA tour in Tel Aviv on Thursday, May 31. In the meantime, Gaga is currently on the road for her Born This Way Ball tour. — PTI

Diaz likes getting older!

Actress Cameron Diaz says she loves roles that require her to prepare physically because it helps her keep in even better shape. "I love to work out anyway but when you get a role where you have to train, it's like an added bonus for me," said Diaz in an interview.

Workout freak: Cameron Diaz"I like to look after my body. So to have a job that pays you to do that is one of the biggest perks for me," the 39-year-old said.

Diaz underwent dance training for new movie What to Expect When You're Expecting.

The actress, who turns 40 Aug 30, is looking forward to her milestone birthday.

"I'm so, so excited about turning 40," she said.

"When I was in my 20s, I couldn't wait to get to my 30s, now at the end of my 30s, I'm so looking forward to my 40s. I love getting older," she added.

— IANS

Inspired act
Bella and Snow White are both very strong matriarchs that need to find that position in life 

Kristen Stewart listened to Adele's emotional 'power ballads' to prepare for the battle scenes in her new film Snow White and the Huntsman.

The 22-year-old actress found the British singer's emotional songs to be the perfect soundtrack to her characters' attempt to win back her kingdom in the big screen reworking of the Snow White fairytale.

"I had Adele on my iPod all the time while doing Snow White. I choreographed whole marches with the army behind me to Adele in my one ear," quoted Stewart as saying.

Kristen is eager to leave comparisons to her Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn character Bella Swan behind but admitted there are some similarities between Bella and Snow.

"How do I compare Bella from Breaking Dawn with Snow White? I guess the only actual comparison is that they are both very, very strong matriarchs that need to find that position in life. They are both icons," she said.

"Both of these tales were given to me through scripts. I have been really lucky. When it comes to Snow White now, I think I know her better than most because there really is such a fine story behind what is a simple fairy tale," Stewart said. 
— PTI

Star power

Victoria Beckham Singer Lily Allen and fashion designer Victoria Beckham are among the stars who donated designer handbags to a charity event. Rocker Jarvis Cocker showed off his DJ skills at the Vauxhall Art Car Boot Fair in London on Sunday, which featured works for sale from artists including Sir Peter Blake and Tracy Emin.

Besides Allen and Beckham, model Daisy Lowe and actress Tilda Swinton offered up their purses as well. —PTI

Designer donation: Victoria Beckham

the ‘in’ side
Niche segment
Sukhmani

Niches are recessed areas in the wall. They can be of any shape or size. These are mostly found in old constructions and are usually overlooked but they have a lot of potential and can be made to add style to your décor. You can use them for décor or function or both, here is how:

n Niches are mostly used as bookshelves. It makes a good place to store your books without having to make a separate shelf for them. Lay your books in a combination of flat and upright to make them look more appealing.

n You can display decorative items in a niche. Add a mirror at the back wall of the niche and it will reflect all the articles you display.

n A niche can be turned into a work of art by painting it a bolder/different colour from your walls. Try painting a bit of a pattern or use wallpaper on the back wall for a stunning effect.

n Using metallic mosaic tiles in smaller niches also looks very interesting and goes well with modern décor.

n You can add a trim to the edges or panel a niche with wood. You can even line the edges with mosaic tiles or glass to make it stand out.

n If you have a niche in the bathroom, instead of converting it into a cabinet, add a glass shelf and make it more aesthetically pleasing by displaying a collection of perfume and lotion bottles.

n If you have a large niche, try placing furniture in it or use that space for your flat TV.

n Add light in niches and cover them with stained glass panels for an amazing look.

n Hang a painting inside a niche for a decorative look and highlight with spot lights.

n Do not clutter, less is more!

n If you have a dramatic pattern on the background, your showpieces should be simple.

n The look should complement the theme of the room.

(Sukhmani is a Chandigarh-based interior and landscape designer)

celeb point 
Till death do us part!
Divya Datta

Divya Datta They often ask me and I am sure many other actresses too, when are you getting married?

I have some random ladies coming up to me and say, “Aapko kya kami hai, itne sunder ho, koi bada sa businessman pakad lo.”

The thought itself scares me. Are not we talking about marriage, companionship, bonding? Money, though important, is not the deciding factor to choose your partner. Am I going to marry the money and the perks it gets? How about compatibility? I wonder why it’s not considered anymore. That itself is a reason for so many crumbling marriages. No compatibility and no tolerance. Because there is this feeling of being self-sufficient and of course, too many choices outside. But the point is what do you choose to choose?

It’s a myth that you find more broken marriages in the film industry. It’s everywhere. Right from my maid’s husband bringing in a lady to stay in the house, to my housewife friend being thrown out, to yet another friend walking out because of her ambitions to those simply growing out of their relationships! I see couples who though live together, are so distant from one another, together for social reasons but finding solace in others.

I am not saying all marriages are like that. I am saying the number is increasing, because in our rushed up lives, everything has become dispensable, even partners! If our own siblings and parents have shortcomings, we overlook and tolerate, because we can’t divorce them. They are khoon ka rishtas. So why did we stop making efforts for the bonds for life? Our parents, I am sure, too had differences, but they all ironed them out because it’s a part of life to disagree and adjust!

This is what is missing these days…yes I have lots of people proposing to me. But how many know the real me and are capable of loving me for me and not the actor in me?

I am a die-hard romantic and idealise marriage! To be a partner for life, but the right one! Who I can love, bond with, disagree, fight, makeup and love even more…yeah I am sure those kind of marriages do exist, though few in number.

But romance for life it has to be! Like that old couple I just saw, holding each other’s hand to cross the road! How many roads of life they must have crossed together, holding each other beautifully!

One such hand for life I await.

(Dutta is a Bollywood actor)

Win(e)some treat!
Manpriya Singh

“You’ll not be able to pair white wine easily…for example if I take paneer butter masala, I’d go for a white wine… but with chicken butter masala, I’d go for a rose and not white wine…it’s a challenge to take wine back to France, especially sell an Indian brand there, but we’ve still started exporting…,” Abhay Kewadkar, chief wine-maker and business head, Wines, The United Breweries Group, pours a little and promotes a little; takes forward the entire exercise of finding the right match. 

Tastes right: Chef Sadeev Mann So white wine goes with white meat! Red wine goes with red meat! Period. For those who are still stuck with the basics, here are a couple of updates. While Sadeev Mann, at the Taj, is busy dishing out grilled lamb chops marinated with rosemary and red wine, pearls of wisdom keep pouring in. He says, “The wine with which you cook is the wine with which you serve food. If you use a different wine it’ll spoil the taste.” Chips in Abhay Kewadkar, “It’s just a myth that for cooking you can use a cheaper wine. Pairing means knowing the ingredients of the food as well as the flavours and taste of the wine that hit the senses when consumed with food.”

There was also a live cook-out of Meuillifuille cottage cheese steak, which is cottage cheese marinated with mustard, layered with vegetables, paired with a Chenin Blanc, an easy-to-drink wine with a blend of fresh fruits. Meanwhile, comes inone more tip. “No ingredients in the dish should be overpowering. The idea is to retain all the flavours and not go overboard with any; use everything is such a way that it enhances the other.” He adds, “For example if you’re pairing with a chocolate dessert, the sweetness of the wine should be little more than sweetness of the dessert.” Speaking of which, the dessert that is, the chef is out to pair an apple parcel, (think apples and crumbles soaked in rose wine stuffed in filo pastry, served with ice-cream) which was paired with Four Seasons Blush, a semi-sweet wine with floral notes that has the aroma of crushed strawberries and a little hint of sweet spice.

manpriya@tribunemail.com

it’s rocking
Toast to friendship

A still from Cocktail The trailer of Homi Adajania’s Cocktail starring Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone and debutante Diana Penty, has been getting rave reviews. The recently released promos have the song Tumhi ho Bandhu which is a peppy number, ideal to groove on, especially if you are in ‘high spirits’. It is sung by Neeraj Shridhar and Kavita Seth and has many fluctuations with changing rhythms. The lyrics are inspired from the Sanskrit prayer Shri Vishwanatha Suprabhata (morning salutations to Shiva) and are penned down by Irshad Kamil. Well, people love the song and the trailers of this movie with a love triangle.

Beach number
The newbie Diana Penty showcases her not-so-great dancing skills but it’s fun to watch a big crowd do semi-classical moves on this track. It is a perfect beach party song, where Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone break free and dance to party hard.—
Sahib Singh, student, PU

Anthem tune
It’s such a cool song which is definitely a friendship anthem. It has such a colourful video and I’m already in love with the movie and can’t wait to watch it. —
Sonia Sharma, student, MCM College

Meaningful lyrics
Such songs which are dedicated to friendship find a place in everybody’s heart. It is a pure party song with foot-tapping rhythm and lyrics so meaningful.
Sophia Kaur, student, GGDSD College

(As told to Sabia Talwar)

TROUBLE SHOOTER
Don’t overprotect your kids 
Simmi Waraich

My daughter has been watching too much television. I find her irritable and rude. I get home late and she is often very rude to her grandmother too. We don’t socialise much, but I try to take her out once a week. She remains tense all the time. — Kanika, Chandigarh

Try and identify potential stressors. It could be frightening night news on the television, a bully on the bus or too much yelling at home? You can’t (and shouldn’t) protect kids from all stress. If there is one thing that is causing unhealthy stress that you can eliminate? For instance, stop yelling in front of the kids. Turn off that scary news in the night. Minimise those stressors, you do have control over.

n The problem could be under scheduling- not having a routine at home. It’s important to discuss a routine with her and put it on trial for a week. See what works and what does not. Then re-discuss it.

n Keep to family routines. Sticking to a routine helps reduce stress. Those family meals, bedtime rituals, nighttime stories, hot baths, hugs, and backrubs not only create bonds but also bust stress.

n Monitor TV viewing. Teenagers feel that one big time stressor is watching late night breaking news without an adult to explain the event. So, monitor what your child views, limit viewing of those stressful real-world news events (terrorism, war, kidnappings, storms), or at least be there to reassure your child about that sometimes.

n Help your child learn stress signs. Point out your child’s stress signs so that he will learn to recognise them. “When you get tense you clench your fists.” “Have you noticed that whenever you worry you get a headache?”

n Don’t overprotect! Of course it’s tough to watch our children deal with tense situations and feel stressed. Our parental instinct is to swoop in and rescue them, but fight that urge.

My brother has been staying out of the house a lot. He gets angry if confronted. He is also spending a lot of money. At times he talks about doing big things but with no plan in mind. My father had a history of depression. Could he be going through the same?

— Harpreet, Patiala

Well, he could be going through a number of things but if it a definite change in behaviour, then one needs to rule out drug abuse (cannabis) or Bipolar Affective Disorder (mood disorder) which often starts like this. Try and convince him to get an evaluation. Ruling out a problem early helps to nip it in the bud.

(Waraich is a Chandigarh-based psychiatrist) 

GREEN THUMB
Fruit of labour
Satish Narula

No garden is complete without the inclusion of the plants of citrus species, such plants are not only a tremendous source of vitamin C that fight the diseases but also have ornamental value. Species like lemon are the ones that find daily need in the household.

There is a wide range of fruits in citrus and one can select as per the family choice. Kinnow sweet orange grape fruit, sweet lime bael are some to choose from. Lemon, however, is a must rather than a choice. Although almost all the citrus species fruit trees look marvelous when in fruiting, there is calamondin, also called kumquat that has tremendous ornamental value.

Bael is an ancient citrus species fruit that is a forgotten fruit. In Chandigarh, however, there are many trees planted in houses. The fruit has tremendous medicinal and religious value. The leaf of this fruit is offered to Lord Shiva and the compound leaf with three leaflets represents the trident of Shiva, the Trishul. The fruit has jelly- like mucilaginous substance that is used for making sherbet. It is very good for stomach, heart and also is a good laxative. The plus point with this fruit is that it is not fussy when it comes to the growing conditions.

Kinnow is one of the most popular citrus plants in the home gardens as well as commercially. The tree bears fruit in hundreds and the fruit is also full of juice. This fruit is sometimes misunderstood as gardeners think it sour and does not attain good quality in home gardens. In fact, the fruit turns yellow and golden very early even before it is fully ripened. It is because of this reason that the fruit is sour when plucked in October or November. The right time to harvest kinnow is January. At that time the fruit is at its prime. It is not that the citrus fruits are backyard fruits. The kumquat is valued for its ornamental value and is planted in the front lawn, with strategic placement. The size of the fruit is seldom more than a ping-pong ball. It is a sight to see a kumquat tree in bearing when hundreds of miniatures of oranges hang on the tree. This plant is also used by bonsai lovers due to the miniature size of fruits and leaves. The kumquat is available in two types, one with round fruit and the other, rather a rare kind, with oval fruits as is visible in the accompanying picture.

Grape fruit is another select fruit of citrus species. This is also valued for its medicinal value as is good for diabetics. There are pink and white fleshed cultivars available.

(Narula is a senior PAU horticulturist

Animated stuff!
Jasraj Bhatti’s short film Bunty’s Tree will be screened at the Reelkids Film Festival in Canada
Ashima Batish

The impact of four minutes dedicated to a global cause is now being felt around the world. When Jaspal Bhatti wrote the script and his son Jasraj directed Bunty’s Tree, little did they know that a four-minute animation film on tree conservation will get such rave reviews. The film has been to numerous short-film festivals, appreciated by environmentalists already…but now Jasraj is aiming for more. “Film festivals and environmentalists only make for two segments. We want that the film should be watched by the masses. For that we have approached certain state governments for funds, which will help us screen the film for the mass audience,” says Jasraj.

The film is now headed towards Reelkids Film Festival in Canada, where again it will be watched by over 5,000 students together. “The subject of the film and also the way it has been presented gives it a global appeal. It could have been made in the form of a documentary but we merged the issue of deforestation with a story. And people could relate to it,” he adds. The total count of festivals where the film has been screened is ten.

Directed at the Mad Arts Jaspal Bhatti Film School, it took fourteen months for the entire unit of Bunty’s Tree to complete the film. “We wanted to make a film that matched international animation standards. From designing characters to dubbing for them, everything was done to perfection.” He adds that the biggest compliment for him has come in the form of invitation to screen at the Reelkids Film Festival. “This time, we didn’t send our product for selection; the festival organisers approached us and we obliged.” So far so good!

Time to shake a leg

Actor Ravi Kissen who is a big name in Bhojpuri cinema and earned fame with his stint in Bigg Boss is now returning to TV with yet another reality show. He will be seen in Jhalak Dikhlaa Jaa. Here he talks about his expectations and ambitions.

Ravi KissenWhy did you say yes to Jhalak Dikhlaa Jaa?

I never thought I would be part of JDJ as names of dance forms are alien to me. My daughter taunted me that I have got two left feet, which is why I am doing it.

What did your daughter say?

She said I shouldn’t participate in such a show because I can’t dance at all. She is 13-years-old and is already a brilliant dancer. I took it as a challenge as I feel that I should be a hero in her eyes.  I will work hard and prove it.

Which dance form is your favourite?

The desi thumka, which I have been doing for years in films. When I take something up, I put my heart and soul into it.

Is this a challenge for you?

Yes. I have earned comfort, lifestyle, stardom everything. Now it is time to learn something new. The channel used to offer me this opportunity every season but I avoided it as I was busy with my work. But this year, I decided to take the plunge.

How do you look at career on TV?

TV has changed my life. I was a superstar in Bihar in Bhojpuri cinema. But no one knew me beyond that. Bigg Boss gave me popularity all over India.

What films are in the pipeline?

Zilla Ghaziabad, Mohalla Assi, Ishaaq, Yashraj’s Y film, Jeena Hai Toh Thok Dal.

chatter box
All is well

Jia Manek Buzz was that Giaa Manek, aka Gopi of Saath Nibhana Saathiya might have to quit her show if she took part in the upcoming dance reality show, Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa. Sources claimed the channel that airs her show even thought of replacing her but now things have been settled.

Not out: Jia Manek

Time for the second outing
Actor Sachin Parikh, currently seen in Colors Na Bole Tum Na Maine Kuch Kaha, will re-enter Sony's Kuuch Toh Log Kahege. Sachin had entered the show as Jagan Mehta, a good friend of Mallika and Dr Ashutosh. Since. Dr Ashutosh and Nidhi are happily married now, Mallika will also get married to Jagan and get settled in the US. According to sources Mallika will be brutally tortured and molested by Jagan. Jagan is taking revenge from Mallika. Hope the new drama brings in TRPs as well.

Time for the second outing
Actor Sachin Parikh, currently seen in Colors Na Bole Tum Na Maine Kuch Kaha, will re-enter Sony's Kuuch Toh Log Kahege. Sachin had entered the show as Jagan Mehta, a good friend of Mallika and Dr Ashutosh. Since. Dr Ashutosh and Nidhi are happily married now, Mallika will also get married to Jagan and get settled in the US. According to sources Mallika will be brutally tortured and molested by Jagan. Jagan is taking revenge from Mallika. Hope the new drama brings in TRPs as well.

Karan Tacker From real to reel world
Karan Tacker seen in Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hai is a popular boy. He is soon going to fly to Singapore to host the red carpet of International Indian Film Academy this year. He recently hosted Femina Miss India and did a performance as well.

next level: Karan Tacker

Patience pays
Anas Rashid aka Sooraj Rathi of Diya Aur Baati Hum recalls the time when he was waiting for his show to air. He signed on the role but only after 10 months did the show take off. He claims he was demoralised by people who felt the show was shelved but he kept faith.

You're most welcome!
A still from Saubhagyavati Bhava  Saubhagyavati Bhava on Life OK will see a new entry Akanksha Juneja, who will play the role of Raghav's (Harshad Chopda) sister, Jasmine. The character which begins as a positive one will develop into a negative role later. Akanksha is happy to have a meaty role in the hit show.

A still from Saubhagyavati Bhava 

Getting a rough deal
As Chandragupta Maurya abruptly went off air when Imagine shut down; buzz was that Sony was interested in airing it. But now the channel has asked the production team to get a non-objection certificate from Imagine's owner, Turner group. It will take some time till the fate of the show is finally decided.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is May 31...

If above 60, you need to put extra energy into positive use to reap good benefits. In case you are looking for ways to make little extra money, invest in secure financial schemes. Don’t give in to the emotional demands of your lover. Some pressure at work and home will make you short-tempered. Don’t make investments in haste. Losses are certain if you don’t look at investments from all possible angles. Do not be rigid with your family, as it may mar the peace at home. Love life may be controversial. If you run from a situation, it will follow you in the worst possible way. Number 4 and planet Uranus will make you responsible, taxonomic, trustworthy, diligent and authoritative.

Things will be in your favour wherever you go with a positive and careful instinct. Siblings will extend their support unconditionally to cover up due tasks. It’s not so much about moving upward. Check your envious and obstinate trait also.

Fatigue or illness may claim your energy and delegating out duty or ‘handing off the gauntlet’ may be all you can do. You need to read the script well in advance before delving onto any business deals. Investments made in new ventures are likely to bring good returns. Hence you should try to utilise 2012-13 to your advantage.

Health wise, you will have abdominal disorders, eye infection or dental problems. Later, you would discover yourself and make certain resolutions. There is a danger of going too far by loving too much, paying too much or overestimating someone. If a partner doesn’t respect your limits, don’t be afraid to walk away and do your own thing. You have to do lot of research which you will surely accomplish to extend the terms of holding the top most position.

Mood: Willing but cautious. Compatible signs: Capricorn, Sagittarius. Lucky colours: Dark grey. Lucky days: Monday and Saturday. Lucky numbers: 6, 7, 11, 15, 41. Lucky gem: Sapphire, red coral and cats eye. Lucky flower: White lilly 

Lea Katherine Thompson
Lea Katherine Thompson (May 31, 1961)
recently starred in the television movie The Christmas Clause, which received good reviews and ratings. She is also starring in the new films Splinterheads and Prettyface. She just filmed the movie I Was a 7th Grade Dragon Slayer. She is set to star in the potential television series A Town Called Malice.

Astro Turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: The prince of Wands comes riding with a promise of power and energy. This should be a pleasantly sociable day. A Taurean person supports you through a difficult time. Tarot message: Be positive, you can make things happen out of the most unlikely circumstances. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 56

TAURUS: The Fool infuses you with courage. A neighbour has some gossip to share. Make sure you really want to hear secrets or rumours about someone. If a family member is not cooperative, refrain from arguing or trying to persuade.

Tarot message: Don’t try to end all the deadlocks at one go. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 25

GEMINI: Ten of Pentacles indicates a good time for relationship and romance. You will enjoy interacting with people who share your views. Strange undercurrents in the home can give rise to drama. Tarot message: Do not let trivial problems haunt you. Lucky colour: Deep Red.

Magic number: 28

CANCER: The karmic Wheel of Fortune turns in your favour. Do not put up with a headache or a neck-pain. Visit a doctor or other health professional before it is too late. Trust your intuition. Tarot message: Capitalise on your strength and do not trust others.

Lucky colour: Forest green.

Magic number: 32

LEO: The Prince of Pentacles infuses financial stability. A Libran person will appreciate your culinary talents. Delays can be expected today. A happy surprise awaits you. 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

VIRGO: Like The Knight of Cups, you are emotional in personal relationship and graceful on social occasions. Professional life will bring some anxiety as changes are imminent. Tarot message: Lack of persistence can be disastrous in business matters.

Lucky colour: White.

Magic number: 47

LIBRA: Do not get sucked into overtime. Plan some fun and relaxation with friends and loved ones. Today you will be quite amazed to find yourself taking on a more ambitious role. Tarot message: Don’t waste an opportunity by being rash or impulsive. Lucky colour: Turquoise.

Magic number: 44

SCORPIO: The Ace of Swords pulls you in opposite direction while making a decision. A yearning for overseas travel and adventure could encourage a career of your choice. A celebration is on the cards.

Tarot message: Focus on the future. Lucky colour: Fiery red.

Magic number: 28

SAGITTARIUS: Some very interesting and unusual people come into your sphere of business and money and give you a few different ideas on how to go about financial matters. 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

CAPRICORN: The Prince of Cups brings you to your truths, hopes and desires that you mask with a calm surface. Get those feelings out into the open where they can be dealt with. Tarot message: Be positive, you can make things happen out of the most unlikely circumstances. Lucky colour: Peacock blue. Magic number: 36

AQUARIUS: The Lovers facilitate you to be open and inspired by new ideas. A surprise phone call will put you back in touch with a friend. An invitation to a party will lead to some romantic angle.

Tarot message: Do not be in a rush to spend extravagantly.

Lucky colour: Silver grey.

Magic number: 54

PISCES: Bring up sensitive issues that everybody is skirting around, which will encourage some open discussing. Be understanding and keep in mind the likes and dislikes of your mate.

Tarot message: Spend time meeting experienced people.

Lucky colour: Crimson.

Magic number: 37





HOME PAGE | Punjab | Haryana | Jammu & Kashmir | Himachal Pradesh | Regional Briefs | Nation | Opinions |
| Business | Sports | World | Letters | Chandigarh | Ludhiana | Delhi |
| Calendar | Weather | Archive | Subscribe | E-mail |