Scissors sharp
Young and happening Rahul Mishra is one designer who is changing the face of the Indian fashion industry
Ashima Batish
Top notch: Rahul Mishra
Top notch: Rahul Mishra

Google Rahul Mishra. The search engine throws back a plethora of information on the fashion designer-some that we already know, some that's news for us. Seven years in the industry and his report card flaunts the International Designer of the Year award by International Apparel Federation, a slot in the list of top 20 young Indians who would shape India's future for Vision-India 2020 along with Rahul Gandhi and Chetan Bhagat and the MTV Youth Icon of the Year in 2009. But awards, he says don't matter much, what counts is raising the bar with every collection.

Your recent accomplishment is winning the Best Women Designer award by Cotton Council International. How do you feel about it?

It feels great when efforts are appreciated by others, but I don't get swayed by awards. At the same time, it's also confirmation of the fact that the world has taken note of how I have tried to revive the handloom of India.

Your name tops the list of fashion designers of the present generation who will make a difference in the fashion industry. How does it feel to be on the top?

It's certainly not lonely out there. But I also believe I have long way to go. The veterans of the industry have made their mark after years of perseverance. They worked on path-breaking ideas, took the traditional embroideries and crafts of India abroad through their designs. I don't think I have achieved half of what they have in the last 20 years. At the same time, I aspire to contribute substantially to the industry.

Success has its own disadvantages. The expectations increase manifold. Does it all scare you?

A designer is as good or bad as his last collection. Even after becoming a major designer label and years of success, Armani doesn't take success for granted. Each collection has to be made as it's is your first time. So expectations don't bog me down. Unlike Bollywood, there are no retakes. What is presented on the ramp reaches out to the world in a few minutes, courtesy Internet. One 'not up to the mark' collection puts a question mark on a designer's hard work.

The competition in the fashion industry is immense. There are designers with over 20 years of experience, and then there is fresh talent making to the fashion weeks. How do you handle the pressure to perform well?

I compete with myself. It's true with all big names of the industry as well. Once you set a bar for yourself, you have to perform a notch higher each time. The ultimate compliment for a designer is not the critics' positive review but how much business he is able to generate in a show. Only if a collection makes me earn enough, I will be able to experiment with the next one. And competition is always welcome; it keeps me on my toes all the time, triggers my ambitions further.

A few Indian fashion designers rue the fact that Indian celebrities don't endorse them on International events usually. Your take…

I designed the outfit for AR Rahman for the Oscars when he was nominated for Danny Boyle's 127 hours. However, a celeb wearing a designer's creation on the red carpet doesn't reflect much on the creativity of the designer. I think there are bigger challenges that Indian fashion designers have to cope with as of now. Revival of Indian craft and putting a full stop to copying-designs business are the two major hurdles.

ashima@tribunemail.com

Maximum change
Neha Dhupia dons saris for her role in her forthcoming film
Mona

The film Maximum is about to be released by the end of this month and one sees former Miss India Neha Dhupia in a sari clad role for the first time. Not in the number race, Neha is happy with her fair share on screen. "I have learnt to be content and I am pretty delighted with the kind of work that I am doing," she says.

Her latest, Maximum, a crime thriller, directed by Kabeer Kaushik has Naseeruddin Shah, Sonu Sood, and Vinay Pathak in the cast. "I play Priya, a wife. She is someone who plays a balancing factor in this otherwise racy thriller," says Neha, who enjoyed the experience. "This is my first sari-clad role, so shooting was a different feeling all-together but fun. The best was to work with such fabulous cast," she adds.

Working on her looks and personality everyday is what has stayed on with Neha from her Miss India experience. "In real, I am as much a normal girl as any other who loves to shop for fancy clothes and sleep in free time," says the actor who will next be seen in I Am 24 and Rush.

Hair we go!
The style statement is never complete without the hair in place, we give you a lowdown on what’s in this summer
Jigyasa Kapoor Chimra

The year 2012’s fashion trends are all about revival. And hair styles aren’t far behind. While on one hand we have the reverse bob in vogue, on the other hand it is time to say goodbye to the smooth, straight hair, defined curls and waves. For this summer, it is the misaligned look that is the top hair trend. The look is not difficult to achieve, you can easily get it by combing wet hair with fingers and then adding the hair texturising spray.

Experts say those with limp hair can try with small braids or twists. This will add volume to hair and they will look misaligned too. “Natural look is definitely the rule this season. Apart from that we have the spikes, A-degree and flip flops as the major styles in hair cut this summer,” says Praveen of Headmasters.

Suggesting Brazilian hair treatment for this summer he says, “This is the treatment for frizzy hair and they can be managed very well with this therapy.”

Well, since natural is in, so we have the homemade curls too as the trend for this summer. “Both nostalgic and modern, this girlish and quirky hairstyle features many an element of other 2012 hairstyle trends: it has a parting and obvious product definition. Soft and eye-catching, homemade curls give off a laid back air as one of 2012’s long hairstyle trends,” says Anju from Styl Studio in

Panchkula. Given that classic fashion revives in 2012, it should come as no surprise that classic hairstyles too define the mane trend. “French twist, reverse bob, reverse blunt are quite a rage these days. And talking about the classic revival in hair styles they are definitely in,” adds Anju. “Side pinned waves too is a style to look out for. And if there is a middle style between stylish and carelessly done hair that is the women’s hair style for 2012,” says an employee of Tress Lounge. Piled and pinned hair styles too work well in this blistering heat, so do the short, voluminous and messy hair.

Mane trend

  • Say goodbye to the well-kept hair, it’s the misaligned look that is in this season.
  • Go for spikes, they’ll add chic charm to your hair-do.
  • Classic hair-styles see a revival, so we have the reverse bob and reverse blunt.
  • It’s time you shed those flashy hair accessories. Natural is in.
  • Single colour is the trend in hair colouring this season.

Weight watch
It’s time to shed flab
Swapana Singla

Weight loss during the summer is very easy because you need little efforts to burn more calories compared to other weathers.

The reasons

The body's normal temperature is 37 degree C. Anything above or below 37, the body utilises energy and burns calories to maintain the body temperature.

Excessive heat causes heat stroke that leads to excessive dehydration and breakdown of muscle protein. The stomach motility is also increased due to increased stomach bacteria. All the above factors accelerate weight loss.

What to do

Reduce your cardio to more than 50 per cent and increase stretching exercises, breathing exercises and floor exercises. Small weight training can also be very beneficial.

  • Vigorous  exercise can increase your thirst or increase water loss.
  • Keep yourself hydrated during work outs. We want the fats to melt and not the muscles to shrink. Concentrate on shaping your body for the summer since the appetite reduces and consumption of fluids increases.

Go green

Go for all the summer vegetables — bottle gourd, pumpkin, tinde, bhindi etc. Preparation should be preferably boiled with salt and pepper with dash of lemon and one tea spoon of oil or butter. Reduce onion tadka as much as possible as it slows digestion and the shelf life of your food reduces.

  • Avoid outside non-veg food completely.
  • Say no to aerated drinks, colas and packaged fruit juices.
  • Boiled egg is a good source of protein, but to know it's edibility you need to break the egg to see the egg yolk is intact.
  • Avoid fries and milk sweets as they cause stomach problems.
  • Consume fruit as whole than juices.
  • Reduce sugars in your fluids. Keep it simple with buttermilk , lassi and plain nimbu pani for the season. Curd or yogurt can really help tackle stomach problems and electrolyte loss.

(Dr Singla is a Zirakpur-based cosmetologist and obesity consultant)

green thumb
Finding the root-cause
Satish Narula

We like having fruits and vegetables in our kitchen garden. We also want to have the best of shrubs, climbers and ornamental trees. But are we providing them the best conditions and environs to get the best results? Normally, the plants are not very fussy about their requirements in home gardens. But there are a minimum of conditions that have to be given to derive the maximum output with quality.

Those with botanical background would know that the basic requirement is a good amount of light which is needed for the manufacturing of the food for the plant. In case of ornamental plants there are certain species that may brave the dark corners to light-up such harsh spaces with their floral or foliage beauty. But by and large most of the flora thrives and gives its best only in good light.

The plants cannot be grown in hard floor even when you have fulfilled the above conditions. In the home gardens, it is a compulsion in some cases to have concrete floor but in the open spaces indiscriminate concretisation makes no sense. Even during the monsoon, the trees do not get their fill due to surface run-off which is gross wastage of precious water.

In the home gardens, the gardeners leave some space but not more than a foot or two and plant some fruit tree or shrub etc and moan when there is no result. Under such conditions, the plant may show some result during the initial years but remember, the roots also need water, nourishment and most importantly breathing. The spread of the roots is as far away from the plant as its drip area, that is, the spread of the plant itself. Anything added near the main trunk does not make any sense. For the application of the water, the nutrition and the breathing space has to be as wide as the spread of the tree.

In the absence of such provision, the roots, bereft of such inputs, get weakened. Whatever small quantity of fruit the tree bears is of poor quality. And be careful, such plants may also fall with a little more than normal wind velocity due to poor anchorage. Now, do you know why we lose big trees in the home gardens or cities? Those who advocate the provision of at least six feet square of land around the tree are begging for a pittance. In urban planting or even in religious places, we concretise till the neck of the main trunk. The temperature in this region goes up to 44 degree celsius or even higher. The concrete of the floor gets heated, killing the hairy feeders or even big roots just below the surface leading to poor uptake of nutrients leading to malnutrition. The leaves start turning yellow and there is a premature leaf fall. Even big trees show sagging during the noon hours. We lose the tree when it is supposed to be at its prime.

(Narula is a PAU horticulturist)

indulge
Luxury within reach

If the pricey tags of the super-luxe dens aren't for you, take a look at the mid-budget hospitality segment. Comfort at the right price is the mantra of the hotel chains investing in region today. Chandigarh recently saw the launch of its first luxury budget hotel Oyster in Sector 17.

Equipped with modern amenities and a traditional concept of Atithi-Devo-Bhava, Hotel Oyster provides an experience to make one's stay a memorable one. It has 36 well appointed rooms elegantly done in a modern and contemporary decor, different rooms designed to meet the need of diverse travelers. There are personal rooms for the special corporate guests. For the exclusive class of presidents, vice-presidents and general managers of the corporate world it has special business suites with a separate sleeping and sitting area to organise a private get-together or business meet, for the newlyweds a special honeymoon suite.

Some rooms are even equipped with steam bath and massage chairs.

The hotel has a multi cuisine restaurant and a bar called Whistler, a state of art banquet halls Mystic and Hazel. The highlight is its roof top lounge rightly named as Sky Lounge.

Rooms are priced in the range of Rs 2,975 to Rs 6,475 with complimentary breakfast. — TNS

it’s rocking
Making sense, lyrically

Shanghai offers two promising tracks, Imported Kamariya and Bharat Mata Ki Jai. Out of the two, it’s the latter that stands out for its lyrics, music, and even the way it has been shot. We have had enough of item songs and other fun tracks. So, Bharat Mata Ki Jai is a welcome change. Here is a critical analysis from the music lovers.

Befitting song

From India shining to India barely lit-up, the song reflects the bitter reality of India. Dibakar Banerjee is known for making out of the box cinema but this time, the music also complements his way of storytelling. Bharat Mata Ki Jai has strong lyrics. Sone ki chidiya, dengue, malaria, it’s about the ugly face of India, which everybody is conveniently ignoring. Music by Vishal Shekhar has completely done justice to the lyrics.

Nimrat Sandhu, student, DAV College

Refreshing change

Finally we have a song that doesn’t boast of a Bollywood beauty and her dance moves. Bharat Mata ki Jai is refreshing is many ways. It has lyrics which talk about the real India, it’s functioning or rather malfunctioning, the backdrop of a busy market is perfect and Emraan Hashmi hasn’t failed to impress yet again. It’s a parody on the actual picture of India. Hope the film will be as hard-hitting as the track.

Radhika Bhatia, student, SD College

Catchy number

Dibakar Banerjee once again manages to surprise, this time with the choice of his music and the lyrics penned by him. Bharata Mata ki Jai is a catchy song. I liked the way it has been sung by Kirti Sagathia and Vishal Dadlani. The song is very different from what all we have been listening to these days. It’s hard hitting and underlines the problems of India. I like the way Emraan Hashmi has danced to the song, justifying its tempo completely.

Vivek Goel, student, DAV College.

(As told to Ashima Batish)

Bringing real to reel
Farhan trained like an athlete for Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, says Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra

Recreating history: Farhan Akhtar in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag and Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra
Recreating history: Farhan Akhtar in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag and Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra

Director Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra of Rang De Basanti fame, who is making a biopic on Milkha Singh, says the film's lead Farhan Akhtar went through gruelling training like an athlete to look the part.

"My only brief to my team was that we are not preparing an actor, we are training an athlete to win gold at the next Olympics. There was a lot of hard work, training everyday, six hours out on the field and then the gym. We had three athletic instructors, a technical expert for speed and endurance, all that is required to train an athlete," Mehra said in an interview.

Farhan's look in the film has already created quite a buzz and Mehra says the reason why that sole picture of the actor from the sets of Bhaag Milkha Bhaag has generated so much response is because it is full of sincerity.

"There are so many actors playing sardars but the reason why this one has struck a chord with the audience is due to the sincerity dripping from it. The amount of hard work that boy has put in, he can one day write a book upon it," said the Delhi 6 maker.

A picture from the movie shows Farhan sporting a beard, long hair and a buffed up body. Mehra says it is comparatively easier to achieve the look on the outside than feel what Milkha is like on the inside. — PTI

I miss acting: Jugal Hansraj

Jugal Hansraj He is best remembered as the adorable boy from Masoom and actor Jugal Hansraj, who has shifted gears from acting to direction, says he desperately wants to make a comeback on-screen.

The 39-year-old directed the first Hindi mainstream CGI (computer-generated imagery) feature film Roadside Romeo and Priyanka Chopra starrer Pyaar Impossible. But both his films did not do well at the box-office.

"I have been outside the acting circuit for quite sometime. I was busy with behind-the-camera stuff. I miss acting and I know it would be difficult for me to make a comeback as a lead character in the films. So, I enjoy direction as there are various nuances to it," said Hansraj.

After enjoying his stint as a child artiste for three years in the industry, Hansraj begun his adult career with Aa Gale Lag Jaa and was noticed in Papa Kehte Hai (1995) and Mohabbatein (2000).

"I am open to acting and it's not that I want to play lead in the films. I have always done those films where my character had some depth. Moreover, I was always inclined to animation and writing," said the actor, who is currently writing three scripts.

Hansraj will be a part of the Melbourne Film Festival, beginning from June 11, to share his knowledge and understanding of the resources available in animation scenario.

He says the animation industry in India is in its nascent stage and will pick up momentum in the next couple of years.

"It's a great honour for me to be a part of master classes of Melbourne Film festival. I will discuss the scenario of animation in Australia and India. — PTI

Andrew's 'Presley' moment

Andrew Garfield says he felt like Elvis Presley when he was given the lead role in The Amazing Spider Man. The 28-year-old actor was resigned to not getting the part after going up against Hollywood's hottest young talents - including Jamie Bell and Aaron Johnson - for the role.

But being paraded in front of the world's press just ten minutes after he was been told of his success, made him felt like a superstar.

"I'd gotten the impression that it wasn't going to go my way. I was resigned to it. I went to see the producers having zero expectations. I imagined I'd be leaving there crying, wishing I'd chosen a different profession.

"Being paraded in front of the press was pretty insane. I got to feel like Elvis for a moment, which was fun," Garfield said.

Garfield also said the moment he was told of his success has been captured on camera, so his fans may get to see it someday.

"I knocked on the door and director Mark Webb answered which was the first weird thing. And then I saw a little Flipcam which was recording. They were filming my reaction to not getting the role or getting the role," he added. — PTI

Future is chaotic for Hurley

Tough task: Elizabeth Hurley
Tough task: Elizabeth Hurley

Actress-model Elizabeth Hurley says her future will be chaotic as she and partner Shane Warne juggle the demands of their children. The Gossip Girl star, who is engaged to former cricketer, said it is hard figuring out their schedules because of her son Damian and the Australian sportsman's three kids.

"My future plans are as chaotic as ever. We are now juggling school dates from Shane's children in Australia alongside Damian's here in the UK, while working all over the globe and trying to have fun too. It's a good challenge to have," she said.

Hurley was previously married to Indian textile heir Arun Nayar. She also dated actor Hugh Grant for more than a decade but they later split up mutually. — PTI

Transit of Venus
Coral-Rekindling Venus captures the moment

To celebrate the Transit of Venus, the Australian High Commission in New Delhi has partnered with the Nehru Planetarium, Nehru Memorial Museum and Library to showcase a special 3D film Coral-Rekindling Venus created by Australian artist Lynette Wallworth.

The Transit of Venus is a significant astronomical event. The transit connects the Sun, Earth and Venus in a unique way which combines astronomy, navigation, history and cultures across the world.

Coral: Rekindling Venus is a ground-breaking trans-media experience. The film is an extraordinary journey into a mysterious realm of fluorescent coral reefs, bioluminescent sea creatures and rare marine life, revealing a complex community living in the oceans most threatened by climate change.

Lynette Wallworth is an Australian artist whose immersive video installations reflect on the connections between people and the natural world. Her work uses photography, film and interactive technologies, like touch-based interfaces, to engage viewers and allow them to experience her works intuitively. Wallworth’s work has been exhibited at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, the Sundance Film Festival, the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art in Melbourne, Auckland Triennial, England’s Brighton Festival and the Vienna Festival among many others.

The film is being screened as part of the planetarium’s regular program in the dome from 6 to 18 June at 11.30 am, 1.30 pm and 5.00 pm (Tuesday-Sunday). In addition to the screenings, free workshops around the theme will be available to children from 5-14 years of age. — TNS

Novel way of charity

Adult film star Sunny Leone denied the reports that she’s personally planning to auction her lingerie used in Jism 2 for charity. In fact, it’s the makers of the film who have decided to auction her clothes from the film in order to promote their film. 

“I’m not personally selling any worn clothes from Jism 2. If the company from Jism 2 is selling them for charity then that is an amazing thing. Hopefully all the money is going to a good charity,” she said.

Leone added that she would appreciate if the makers donate the money to her team for American Cancer Society and she will be running 13.1 miles to raise the money. 

“If they are still deciding on a charity I hope they donate to my team for the American Cancer Society. I'll be running 13.1miles and raising money for cancer,” she added.

Jism 2 is expected to release on July 27.

As pretty as Shraddha Kapoor

Bollywood newbie Shraddha Kapoor is one of the sweetest faces in town. She is Lakme’s face too.  She feels that inner happiness makes people glow but make-up can help us look prettier too. The leggy lass tells us all about her make-up essentials.

Kajal: That’s the most important make-up article which every woman should carry in her bag. You can wear kajal in office, when you are going out, or going to exercise and it goes with every kind of attire.

Liner: Women should always carry shimmer liner in their bags as you can easily apply it whenever you make a plan to go partying or for dinner. I love gold and bronze and I have some great eye-shadows in these colours.

Face wash: This is one thing which many don’t carry but they should carry because it's very important to wash our face every six hours and even before applying make-up. Use one that suits your skin type and requirements.

Lip gloss: I think we should carry two glosses: one should be plain and light for day or office wear and the other should be a richer shade with some glitter for night and party wear.

Cheek artist: It gives your cheeks instant glow. Apply it at parties for a touch-up.

Money is a game changer

Off-screen: Shraddha Arya
Off-screen: Shraddha Arya

The show Main Lakshmi Tere Aangan Ki is based on the life of a girl from middle class.  The show has not succeeded in garnering TRPs so far, but the lead actress Shraddha Arya is optimistic. We caught with the Delhi born and bred Shraddha, who talks about the show, her character and more…

What do you have to say about the low TRPs?

I am aware of it. But I am sure things will get better in future as the production house is making very interesting episodes.

Do you think that the current angle of the show, where you will sell your husband Arjun (Sudeep Sahir) to save your in-laws from bankruptcy will catch attention of audience?

We have not yet reached that stage and I don’t know how the plot will unfold or make audience interested in the show.

What do you think of the concept?

Personally, I do not like the concept of a woman trading her husband for money. Although I again stress that I don’t know how the story line will progress in our show.

Do you think Lakshmi has been unlucky for the Agnihotri clan?

Well, after she came to the family as a bahu, their business went bust. But now she will do what she has to, to bring money back.

How similar are you to the character Lakshmi?

I’m quite different in real life. While I like to wear trendy western outfits including shorts skirts, my character can’t wear them due to TV grammar. Still, I would love to wear them. Moreover, Lakshmi like many other girls in real life puts money above everything else. But for me love, education and nature come first. I don’t really pay too much attention to money as I believe that money can be made easily.

chatter box

Fair and square: Soumya SethFighting injustice

Presently, Navya (Soumya Seth) has been going through a lot of problems in Star Plus’ Navya. She has been given a challenge by Babuji (Achal Nagesh) that she will be thrown out of the house in the next 15 days. However, Navya will stick to her fight and continue her stand that everyone in the family should be treated in the same way. This will lead to some sour moments between Babuji and Navya. At first, Anant will raise his voice against Navya but in the end will support his love. And guess what? Navya will not be thrown out of the house.

Fair and square: Soumya Seth

Jhalak 5 starts mid June

Get set go: Pratyusha BanerjeeALL AGOG: Gurmeet ChowdhuryColors TV’s most talked about show, Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 5 makes it to the screens on June 16 With twelve big contestants participating from all walks of life, this show is sure to grab the eye balls. The celebrity contestants this year are: Pratyusha Banerjee, Ravi Kissen, Jayati Bhatia, Bharti Singh, Darsheel Safary, Gurmeet Chowdhury, Talat Aziz, Shibani Dandekarr, Archana Vijaya, Isha Sharvani, Giaa Maanek and Sanath Jayasuriya.

NEXT STEP: Aakanksha Singh Moving on in life

After completing 100 episodes, Na Bole Tum Na Maine Kuch Kaha is going through a lot of twists and turns.  In an upcoming episode, Papaji aka Anjjan Srivastav will come across Amar’s (Rohit Bharadwaj) diary.

In the diary, Amar has written that his wife Megha (Aakanksha Singh) should move on if something ever happens to him. This prompts a new notion in Papaji’s mind and he thinks of Megha’s remarriage, a subject he also talks about it with his family.

NEXT STEP: Aakanksha Singh

Networking: Boman Irani That’s a sweet tweet!

Boman Irani who recently went to Tarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah to promote his film Ferrari Ki Sawari also appeared on Dance India Dance Little Masters Season 2. “At DID Little masters. All set to meet Mithunda, Marzi and Geeta. Here to promote Ferrari Ki Sawaari. Those kids can give u a complex,” he updated on Twitter. He must have had a great time on the show.

Networking: Boman Irani

 

Mahadev finds his Parvati

A still from MahadevLife OK’s show Mahadev, Parvati is all to mark the entry as Sati (Mouni Roy) has died in the show. Sonarika Bhadoria has been roped in by the makers to play Parvati. But that’s not it. Ishita Vyas has been brought on board to essay Parvati’s best friend, Jaya, and a new face Mamta Nagar would essay Vijaya. Ishita who has acted in movies and on television was last seen in Zee TV’s Jhansi Ki Rani as Jhalkari. In the show, Jaya will be the only friend of Parvati. A still from Mahadev

In the right frame

Afsar Bitiya lead actress Mitali Nag says that she likes the photography skills of co- star Shashank Sethi (Mithilesh). The actress says that she likes being photographed. Shashank had clicked some pictures of her during their shooting and she kept requesting him to click more.

Good job: Pooja Bhatt Pooja is proud

Jism 2's shooting will be complete within a week. Pooja Bhatt is very proud of her actress Sunny Leone for doing a good job of her complicated role. She says her Hindi has also improved.

Good job: Pooja Bhatt

Big opening

Rowdy Rathore is a big hit and the biggest opening that Akshay Kumar's film has ever got! Critics have torn the movie apart but the collections are another story.

Holiday mode: Ameesha PatelTurkey time

Ameesha Patel is going back to Turkey with her business partner Kunal Goomer and his wife Shamli. She will celebrate her birthday there and shoot for Race 2. She enjoyed Rowdy Rathore recently.

Holiday mode: Ameesha Patel

Arjun going places

Shraddha Kapoor will star opposite Arjun Kapoor is his latest flick in which he plays a double role. There is another actress in the film as well. Shraddha is also doing a Shyam Benegal film.

Happy go lucky: Vidya Balan Vidya’s sari saga

Vidya Balan is happy with her weight and her curves. She is a secure and confident actress and person. In fact, she has popularised saris and stores are selling saris in her name. Good going!

Happy go lucky: Vidya Balan

Still friends: Shahid Kapoor and Priyanka ChopraOver, not out

Priyanka Chopra and Shahid Kapoor were rumoured to be a couple but they are exes now. However, they are extremely comfortable with each other and very friendly during the promotional rounds of Teri Meri Kahaani.

Still friends: Shahid Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra

 

 

ASTRO TURF
P Khurrana

ARIES: The card Eight of Swords bestows Saturine influence. So problems are bound to arise at home. Chronic patients: seek medical advice. A neighbour would be the cause of worry. Tarot message: Try to avoid serious discussions with loved ones. Lucky colour: Aqua blue. Magic number: 39

TAURUS: Early hours could see you encountering some difficulties. Budget goes topsy-turvy. Keep your mind at work. Resources must be protected. An attraction to the unknown can take you away from your comfort zone. Tarot message: Seek advice but don’t feel you have to stick to it. Lucky colour: Crimson Magic number: 48

GEMINI: Home and family affairs will be most enjoyable. You will not be able to get teamwork going. There is likely to be another romance waiting for you around the corner. Tarot message: A shopping spree can set your budget aflutter, so be aware. Lucky colour: Purple Magic number: 36

CANCER: You are riding on a lucky wave. The married ones will be able to see more of each other. No arguments please. Sit back and enjoy the day as it unfolds. Tarot message: Make the best of a bad situation by being polite and understanding. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 59

LEO: Use your judgment while dealing with important issues. Do not demonstrate your anger to anybody. Today you will have an uncanny knack of understanding exactly what people want, even when they aren’t expressing it. Tarot message: Spend time on fitness routines. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 29

VIRGO: Make your choices wisely today. Family politics or the power struggles in shared living quarters can intensify. Don’t wait until your fears become facts. Tarot message: Take your partner out to dinner and renew the energy in the relationship. Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 47

LIBRA: You card Ten of Wands shows deception. You will feel irritated at work. A new deal may bring monetary gains. Women: control your diet, and focus on exercise. Good friends will be a source of entertainment and support. Tarot message: Adopt a diplomatic approach. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 61

SCORPIO: Stock brokers, think before investing. A chance encounter with a stranger may leave your heart beating wildly. It is great chance for you to enjoy an adventure together. Tarot message: Beware of making rash moves or personal decisions when angry or upset. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 30

SAGITTARIUS: Business can be carried out successfully. Your card “The Lovers” is shining its loving light on your house of fun, lovers and children. Don’t give advice as it could backfire on you. Tarot message: Keep your eyes and ears open for new and exciting opportunities. Lucky color: Peach. Magic number: 42

CAPRICORN: Students, do not neglect your work. Keep business activities open and aboveboard. While you are rattling around in your basement or attic, you are likely to find something that evokes fond memories. Tarot message: Do try to be as charming as possible in all situations. Lucky colour: Mauve. Magic number: 25

AQUARIUS: Get into work early because as the day unfolds, everything can become chaotic. An influential person may acknowledge your work. Tarot message: Stop thinking about yourself and see what you can do for others. Lucky colour: Silver grey. Magic number: 40

PISCES: No matter what problems might arise, you will achieve success. Luck shines on job seekers. Start organising your finances. A new budget to suit your income and lifestyle will help you to make headway. Tarot message: Take life as it comes. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 52

THE YEAR AHEAD
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is June 7...

All sort of excellent opportunities are opening up under the Gemini Moon. You need to be in top form in order to make the best use of them all. Your criticism of others can lead to strained relationships at home. Concentrate on your goals, which are within reach now. Don’t just wait, make it happen.

You should have lots of initiative, confidence and courage. New projects which you start now are likely to work very well. You are moving around with the kind of optimism and positive thinking that makes things happen. Good food and drink, beautiful clothes and a luxurious home life are all important to your sense of well being. However, don’t be too materialistic in your approach, for it will slow down your progress. Have patience, as your continuous effort coupled with common sense and understanding will guarantee your success. Sudden inflow of funds takes care of your bills and immediate expenses. Children help you complete household jobs. Sudden romantic encounter may confuse you. Efforts made to improve your looks and personality will turn out to your satisfaction.

If anyone’s asking for your time, be realistic about how much you can give.

This year your mind will be completely focused on work. Those born before 1960 must try to have a better attitude towards change to obtain the recognition you expect. The students can look forward to a period of progress. Hard work put in earlier would win you laurels now. An opportunity to go overseas for further studies is likely. This year you appear to help prevent a huge mistake or problem.

Some of you may have a slight health problem that will require you to take rest. Take care of your diet and focus on your health. There could be minor health issues to face like coughing and headache etc. Acidity, headache, and other minor diseases are in store for you. Mood: Vulnerable at times but only if you are not paying attention.

Ekta KapoorCompatible signs: Gemini, Taurus. Lucky colours: Green, Violet. Lucky days: Saturday and Monday.

Lucky numbers: 2, 8, 15, 28, 56. Lucky gem: Pearl, Cat’s Eye. Lucky flower: Jasmine.

Suggestion on birthday: Donate stationery items to poor but deserving students.

You share yourbirthday with Ekta Kapoor (June 07, 1979,Mumbai) daughter of 60’s superstar Jeetendra and sister of actor Tusshar Kapoor. All her television serials and movies used to start with the letter “K”.

Her 34 th year as per her astrological stars promises her a life partner. Her husband will not be have K as his first letter in the name. Exception may be that she changes his name before tying the knot. As a producer, she will excel in the coming year as well. She will outperform her competitors.





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 |