The cast of August: Osage County, an English play depicting a dysfunctional family, came calling to the city 
An ‘August’ evening
Sabia Talwar and Manpriya Singh

It's all set. The actors take their chair, entourage of scribes take theirs. The question-answer session begins over a cup of tea. Yet the routine work is different this time. Because the conversation soon turns into a preview of the play, August: Osage County. As Lillete Dubey and her team of actors begin to divulge information, they effortlessly seep in and step out of their characters. "It's a comedy play written by Tracy Letts which has won a Pulitzer Prize for Drama," says Lillete. The play is a family drama, which unveils the secrets of a dysfunctional family. The action takes place over the course of several weeks in August inside the three-storey home of Beverly and Violet Weston. The ensemble cast shares details. 

Mita on road
Mita Vashisht
DREAMING BIG: Mita Vashisht

Enter Karen Westwood. The middle sister who rather makes an appearance than just straddle onto the stage. Only one hour late. "By the time I come onto stage, the play has been already on for almost an hour. I'm from the family but I play an outsider in the sense I come from outside when the madness and the drama in the play peaks." Mita Vashisht laughs, "By the time, everybody's settled and done their entries while I'm still going through the initial stage fright." A statement that invites friendly jeers from the accompanying co-stars sharing the same table. Just as her much awaited entry, coming up is a film She Of the Four Names, a story on the poetess Lal Dedh.

Something she's been working on for the past one year and drove in her Qualis from Bombay to Kashmir. "That's because half an hour journey through plane doesn't fetch you the same experiences and insight as a road journey undertaken." She's aiming at nothing less than a Broadway in terms of the expanse, presentation, reach… "It's a fabulous classic. For my next play I only want to tap only large sponsors and make it really big." The bigger, the better. 

Direct act
Lillete Dubey
Play on: Lillete Dubey

There is something good and bad about Lillete Dubey's coming to the city, with a different play each time. Good is of course you get that bit of theatre that promises quality, class and entertainment. Bad is sky-high expectations from her product. But year after year, play after play, she delivers, never fails. This time it isn't different with her latest production, August:Osage County. She dons the director's hat, becomes the captain of the ship and navigates it and takes theatre lovers for a joy ride. Not to forget, she is an actor as well, "I play the role of the mother, Violet. My character needs to be seen and heard to be believed," shares Lillete.

The play is also being adapted as a movie where Meryl Streep will play Violet. The copyrights have been adhered to. "We do pay a royalty to the American playwrights. Adapting an original play demands a lot of hardwork, but those who live for theatre don't mind putting any amounts into making a play worth it."

While theatre takes most of her time she keeps herself open to Bollywood. She has lately given her best shot in The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. "I do everything with conviction. I thought that what if I never get a chance to work in such a fantastic film again and now I feel so happy when I know that the movie is a hit." She will also be seen in Bollywood movies like Chashme Buddoor with Anupam Kher and Rishi Kapoor, Delhi in a Day with Victor Banerjee and Kulbhushan Kharbanda.

Music is life
Suchitra Pillai
IN SYNC: Suchitra Pillai

Suchitra Pillai plays the role of the middle daughter Ivy who is a librarian. "My character is very well-defined and I love being Ivy." The electronics engineer by qualification, she was offered Aisha Jhulka's role in the hit movie Jo Jeeta Wahi Sikander but then was too busy with her education. "I know it is a total toss from being an engineer to an actor. But I guess it is all about destiny and I live in my present," says Suchitra. As of now music is her mainstay where last year she came up with her pop-rock album Such is Life with her own lyrics and was well acclaimed for it. "My journey in cinema has been rather frustrating so I decided to just live my passion. I have another bilingual album coming up in the same genre and also a Euro pop with a UK artist titled Angel Connection. But still I will always make time for theatre," adds Suchitra. Suchitra stresses on the fact that education forms a backbone so she does not regret doing engineering ever. "Acting is not easy at all and you touch so many lives with every role you play."

On a role
Amar Talwar
Amar Talwar

Everybody's character sketch is cut short by one liners flying to and fro with a joke here and an anecdote there. Nevertheless, with each and every member of the cast being a star in their own right, it goes without saying that everybody's character is well defined.

Shares Amar Talwar, "All of us had well defined parts. And my role, perhaps is the shortest in terms of lines and time on stage but it has an impact of its own." He's about to come to his white full grown beard, till someone shouts, "He plays the Babaji."

Shares Amar Talwar, "What struck me about the play was that with every character I could identify. I play a pot smoking guy and Kitu's husband." 

Confident Kitu
Kitu Gidwani
SPEAKING OUT: Kitu Gidwani

She is almost last generation of successful TV actors we saw, just before the seeds of kitchen politics invaded the small screen. Kitu Gidwani isn't mincing words either. “I don't do television anymore. It's either theatre or films for me." The next query is more of a confirmation. "That is because television has sunk really low. It doesn't excite me anymore. " Wish we could print the adjectives she liberally expresses herself with. It's been a while since we caught her after films like Fashion, Dhobi Ghat and the like. "I have a super natural film coming up called Lori, then there's an urban story called the Graveyard Shift." 

Different and defining
Sandhya Mridul
AIMING HIGH: Sandhya Mridul 

We have seen Sandhya Mridul play Kajal in the serial Koshish and a bold girl in the movie Page 3 but Sandhya has a very valid explanation for what is she doing now. Sandhya in the play portrays the role of Barbara who is the oldest daughter and wants to save her marriage. Says Sandhya, "I like doing theatre because you get a lot to do as an actor. On the whole I enjoy acting a lot." She is rather tired of telling people that she is not running away from television and movies but the same set of roles she is offered makes her say no. "Ask me I got my fame from television but sorry I can't go on playing a bahu wearing sarees all my life. And when I did the role of Pearl in Page 3, people mistook the word bold in a wrong way."

On the right track
Charan Ahuja, an upcoming singer, will soon come out with his second album
Manpriya Singh

It's hard to sign business agreements when you dream of scribbling on autograph papers. Post-graduation in business management notwithstanding, he always wanted to strike a couple of chords, pull a lot of strings! Charan Ahuja, an upcoming singer, might be taking baby steps at a snail's pace to stardom but he's got moving nevertheless. Says the 25-year old, who will soon come out with his second album, "Music was not just sound to my ears, but also a passion and a different world of dreams. Since I was eight, all I wanted to do was sing."

It was only a matter of completing his education and he was at it! "As soon as I returned from the US, I started working on my first album Rooh. I looked for lyricists and music directors, though I have given all the music myself and even sung all the songs." The album comes packaged with eight tracks comprising different tones. "The title track is a romantic number. It is a combination of Punjabi and Latin music. I must have worked for eleven months for this album." He adds, "As for its video, we shot in Malaysia. It's a romantic video, almost a story in itself." Then there are the inevitable songs in any Punjabi album, a few dance tracks! "There's also this song Minnie Mickey for which the video is still in process. It's a song where the lovers are compared to the cartoon characters Minnie and Mickey."

Keeping in sync with his dreams, it's been seven years of learning music. "I have been learning classical music under the tutelage of my guruji Vinod Sood. I have been not just into singing but also playing a number of instruments like guitar, flute and harmonium." It all started from school shows, went up till college and is now continuing through tour shows. "I have always idolised Gurdaas Mann and among the upcoming singers I really admire Diljit Dosanjh."

There might not be Punjabi singers who take to classical base but he's happy with the way things are progressing. "Punjabi music industry is still progressing. My only complaint is that there should be no copying and more experimentation." He adds, "My second album will be out soon. For it, I'm working with the team Sultans of Bhangra. We have completed two tracks.”

Khiladi’s got competition

David Dhawan's next film, a remake of Chasme Baddoor will clash with the release of Akshay Kumar's Khiladi 786. Gosh, we can just imagine how silly both movies are going to be!

Leave me alone

Director Prakesh Jha was irked when director Anurag Kashyap's work in Gangs of Wasseypur was compared with his film. So much so that he instructed media "not to ask questions about Anurag Kashyap.” “I have nothing to do with Anurag Kashyap. Why on earth shall I be compared with a director who is just a few films old? Please do not compare me with anyone. Parallel cinema is over. There was no survival of it in India. So people who talk about parallel cinema don't know the meaning. And I don't care what Anurag Kashyap is doing,” an annoyed Jha said.

Prateik’s Banarasi act

Bollywood actor Prateik Babbar says he was excited playing with guns and doing stunts in his first action movie Issaq. It is due for a release in two months, in which he plays a "Banarasi boy" in the lead role. Based in Banaras, it's a Romeo-Juliet kind of story and he is a kind of "killing machine" in the film. He is a Banarasi boy who kills for a living.

Starry quirks
We bring you little details about your favourite stars and their favourites...

Bipasha is a grateful person

Bipasha Basu believes gratitude is the greatest virtue. She is thankful for her staff, her job, her health, her life. She takes the stairs. She likes sleeping till late in the winters. She eats well and then works out. She loves seafood.

Anushka loves cold weather

Anushka Sharma loves feeling cold so she creates it in her room by switching on the air-conditioning and using blankets. She loves holidaying on her own in the mountains.

Kareena lives to eat

Kareena Kapoor loves eating well. She and her sister Karisma get their diet menus from Rujuta Diwekar and they discuss and compare their diets. Kareena likes Yoga while Karisma likes the gym. Kareena is a vegetarian while Karisma enjoys her meat. They both share shoes, bags, and clothes.

Sonam Kapoor loves watching television series

Sonam Kapoor loves watching television series. She watches them for days till she finishes seasons. She loves Gossip Girl and and Two and a Half Men. She also loves chocolate and Thai food. She is an animal lover.

Kangna Ranaut is a spendthrift

Kangna Ranaut loves spending money on clothes, shoes, make-up, hairstyles and looking good. She loves indulging herself. She doesn’t save. She wants to enjoy looking good and having fun while she is young. She has her favourite hairstylist in Dubai. She likes changing her look often.

 

Gangs’ second outing

The poster of Anurag Kashyap's Gangs of Wasseypur 2 is out!

The film is a sequel to Gangs of Wasseypur and will release on August 8. Both the parts were screened at 65th Cannes International Film Festival, and were highly praised by international film admirers.

According to the Anurag, the film is fictionalised version of many characters. “It a mix of many characters and fictionalised version of them into one character,” he said.

The prequel of the film got a good response at the box-office and Kashyap is happy with it. “I have got acceptance after a long time and I am happy about it. I wanted to get accepted for the films I make. A lot of directors who I think very highly off have called me. Bachchan Saab (Amitabh Bachchan) tweeted also and it made so much of a difference. Also, Ekta Kapoor loved the film...she called me up,” he added.

Loving the rains

Mona Singh Mona Singh loves everything about the rains: driving around in a car, getting drenched, eating roadside food, having hot tea and watching the rain fall from her house.

Nature love: Mona Singh

 

Together, once again

Those who are waiting for Ranbir Kapoor-Deepika Padukone starrer Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani to release will have wait till next year. The film will release on March 29, 2013.

“Our Ranbir-Deepika film titled Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani directed by Ayan Mukerji will now release MARCH 29th, 2013,” producer Karan Johar confirmed.

It’s Ranbir-Deepika’s second film together after Bachna Ae Haseeno.

Aditya Roy Kapoor, Evelyn Sharma and Kalki Koechlin will play supporting roles. The film is said to be a tribute to the cinema of Nasir Hussain, who directed classics such as Dil Deke Dekho and Teesri Manzil.

Big B salutes women power!

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan is amazed with the way women are progressing and says that the time is not too far away when "women shall rule the world”.

The 69-year-old was in Ranthambore as a part of “Save Our Tigers” campaign and is surprised to see how young girls are single-highhandedly managing the task to make the show successful.

“It is complete madness! The screaming and shouting of the time left...and all this for one program...But remarkably, what needs to be paid attention to is that it is being managed and operated by women - 90 percent of them!! And I am told when the station started, the average age of those in command was 25 years! This is women power. ” Amitabh posted on srbachchan.tumblr.com. — IANS

Esha Gupta loves horror films

Esha Gupta who made her debut in Jannat 2 will be next seen in RAAZ 3. She shares her experience on how scary she finds horror films. 

Interestingly, Esha says that though she gets scared of ghosts she still enjoys watching horror movies. “Oh I love horror movies. I used to watch Aahat, when I was a kid. I used to switch off the lights and watch the show with my sister and daddy. And the funniest part was my sister and I used to get so scared sometimes that we use to close our eyes and cover up faces. But we never stopped watching it,” laughs Esha.

A model to begin with, she made a rather bold debut in Jannat 2 as she had to do intimate scenes with Emraan Hashmi. She did not get great reviews for her acting though her looks and body and resemblance to Angelina Jolie and Lara Dutta was noticed and praised. Jannat 2 has been a big hit. She will be seen in Prakash Jha's Chakravyuh and has already completed shooting for Raaz 3. She replaced Prachi Desai in the Bhatt movies.

Mistaken identity

A cosy picture of Shilpa Shetty with a baby is doing the rounds on Internet, claiming the little one in the picture is the actress's son Viaan. But Shilpa denies it.

"There is a picture doing the rounds, claiming it's my son and I just want to say that picture is of my niece, Shyana, and me taken a year back," Shilpa clarified on Twitter.

Clarification time: Shilpa Shetty

GET PHYSICAL
Killing the cramps
Anil Juneja

Pre-menstrual syndrome or PMS is a group of symptoms that start showing five to ten days before the period. Most women have at least some symptoms of PMS, and the symptoms go away after their period (menstruation) starts. For some women, PMS is just a monthly bother. For others, it may be so severe that it makes it hard to even get through the day. 

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is characterised by uncomfortable mental and physical state that can occur about two weeks prior to menstruations. Some psychological manifestations of PMS include anxiety, depression, irritability, anger, confusion and forgetfulness. Physical symptoms include tenderness of breasts, migraine, nausea, changes in energy level, swelling of arms and legs, feeling bloated and back pain.  

In that case yoga asanas are helpful to ease the pain and makes you feel relaxed. Yoga can relieve both psychological and physical symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. But the yoga practice should be gentle, so that abdomen remains inactive throughout the practice and menstrual flow can continue unobstructed. Inverted yoga asanas should be completely avoided. These two yoga poses are gentle and suitable for relieving menstrual pain:

Shishu asana (Child pose)

To start with, sit on your knees with your feet together and buttocks resting on your heels.

Separate your knees about the width of your hips. Place your hands on your thighs palms down. This is the vajraasana. Inhale deeply and then exhale as you bring your chest between your knees while swinging your arms forward. Rest your forehead on the floor, if possible.

Now bring your arms around to your sides. Breathe gently through your nostrils as you hold the posture.

Hold for about one to two minutes. Then return to the vajrasana. Repeat the posture 2 to 3 times.

Bhujang asana (Cobra pose)

To start with, lie flat on the stomach on the mat with legs straight, feet together, toes facing outside, and forehead on the floor.

Keep the palm on the ground beside the chest. Inhale slowly and raise the hand and trunk as in the shape of hood of the cobra.

Hold the position as long as you can, without experiencing any difficulty. Now exhale, while lowering the body. Repeat 3-5 times.

(Juneja is a Chandigarh based Yoga and fitness expert)

Go-getter
Chase your dream
Vasudha Gupta

Following one’s dream is like falling in love...just as uncontrollable...if you don’t follow your dream then all that is left is regret. Guided by thoughts like these, Jasleen Aulakh has defied the standard norms to pursue her dream and become a musician. She studied Hindustani classical music in college, went to Pondicherry and has jammed with musicians.

Motivational factor

Known for a famous folk song, Jasleen credits her mother, Polly Saghera, as the sole reason for her success. A writer and lyricist, Polly’s contribution towards Jasleen’s singing career is beyond imagination. “According to her, I will realise her dream by becoming a famed singer,” Jasleen shares. Not only in terms of working technically with Jasleen’s music, her mother has also paid no heed to societal pressures. “Not everyone reacts very well to singing as a profession,” she adds.

Feathers in the cap

Jasleen’s claim to fame has been the folk song, which had a huge Youtube presence. Director Kabir Sadananad, during his search for shooting locations for Project 36, stumbled across her video and tried to get in touch with her. Few sessions of recording and Jasleen flew to Mumbai where she recorded the song based on the same folk song with Polly’s lyrics and a new tune. Having undergone training under Pandit Yashpal, Jasleen’s true calling was realised when she went to Pondicherry. Her band, back in Pondicherry, Organic Baham, played in and around Pondicherry. Currently her band, Just Ittefaaq, has Polly Saghera writing lyrics, Rohit Joshi on the lead guitar and vocals, Gaurish, the percussionist and Jasleen on the vocals and the rthyhm guitars. All set with the recording, the girl is keeping her fingers crossed, for Just Ittefaaq’s first album Polly’s Diary is about to come out. Working on music with meaning, most of Jasleen’s songs capture the essance of social stigmas. The band plays folk and Sufi music but does not limit to any particular genre. The band blends an assortment of musical instruments to achieve a unique sound.

Flipside of being an achiever

A fresh breath of music in Chandigarh, Jasleen’s only encounter with the flipside has been some of the reactions for doing something unconventional. Especially from those people who are not aware of the hard work and dedication that go into a profession like singing. Because such negative comments are completely forgotten when crowds are more than responsive.

Words of wisdom

“Get out, follow your dream and just do it,” she says with an air of confidence. “Set a time limit to achive what you really want to do and stay focussed,” she adds.

Pitter-patter and the platter
It’s raining dishes this monsoon with an array of options available at the city restaurants
Jigyasa Kapoor Chimra

Monsoon offers a huge relief from the scorching summer. When it begins to rain, nothing is more pleasing than a delectable palate. Knowing the same, city restaurants have cooked a storm on a monsoon plate with some lip-smacking dishes that you can enjoy in the rains. “Monsoon food has always been very special. We at Café Amor at P3, Panchkula are celebrating the season with Karaoke days. Couples can sing romantic numbers together and enjoy a hearty meal. Drinks will be complementary. Other than this, we also have the thin crust pizzas, pastas, grilled vegetables chicken and fish to enjoy,” says a chef of the café.

Well, for people who love to gorge on Italian, should not miss the treat at JW Marriott’s Italian restaurant, Oregano. They have some special dishes for the rains. “We have spinach and cheese ravioli to be enjoyed. We are offering spaghetti with garlic and chilli, stuffed pasta with lamb and salmon, and lamb shank with polenta (that is a corn meal),” informs Chef Antonello Cancedda.

While there is no denying the fact that traditional Indian food (read samosa, pakora, jalebi) are best enjoyed in the rains, but for the wide-travelled, Indian gourmet food values more than the desi palate. “Considering that our city people love the weather, we have introduced cake shakes especially for the monsoons. Other than this, we have the dark chocolate cakes. Rest every dish has some spice added to it,” says Priya Garg, director, Ovenfresh.

Those who want some Pan Asian flavours will get a great deal at Hotel Icon in Sector 8. “Considering the down pour we have started the monsoon buffet where we are offering four starters, sixteen main course dishes and three desserts,” says Dilsher Sukhija. Everything at an unbeatable price of Rs 285!

That’s not the end of delicacies, for some Indian zayaka, Hotel Western Court has started its mango festival. “Mangoes are synonymous with monsoons so we have the mango festival and connoisseurs can enjoy the aam panna, peeti wali puri with aam ras and murgh keri,” says Rajeev Kakkar, group general manager, Hotel Western Court. That’s not all, they also intend to begin the world cuisine festival for the season.

If you are in love with burgers than a drive to Hotel Mountview won’t be a waste, here you can enjoy the Burger ‘n’ coolers festival. So, make the most of monsoons and enjoy a hearty meal of your choice. 

stress buster
Keep busy
Renee Singh

‘I am bored’… even this could be due to a level of stress you are experiencing. July is officially named the Anti Boredom Month which makes it the perfect time to add some excitement and challenge to your days. Life begins to get monotonous when we are following a routine pattern everyday. We can always drive away boredom by adding some new and exciting activities to our daily routine.

Gain a hobby loose the boredom

We often think of hobbies as activities for people who lead quiet relaxed lives. But people with stressful lives need them more. Hobbies provide a slice of ‘work free’ and ‘responsibility free’ time in your schedule. They recharge batteries for people by making them do something they enjoy so that they feel strengthened and rejuvenated.

Go gardening

This is a stress reliever for many reasons, like getting into the sunshine and fresh air, creating more beautiful surroundings, just being in touch with nature and an overall feel of being in beautiful environment can help de stress immensely.

Photography time

Just simply taking pictures of friends and family can be very de stressing and a lot of fun. When you practice seeing life through the eyes of a photographer you see things more delightfully.

Try scrap booking

Whether you have a few pictures or boxes of them, scrap booking is a great hobby. It can combine artistry with journaling to create a unique vehicle for displaying your memories.

Maintain an aquarium

Watching fish is a proven health benefit. It reduces blood pressure and relieves stress. It is a hobby that requires constant attention and gives you the freedom to explore your creative skills.

Mind games

Engaging your mind in a puzzle takes your focus off whatever is stressing you and develops your brain power at the same time. As a result you develop a flow and come back to your problems with a fresher mind.

Drawing and painting

This helps us in a way to process our emotions, distract ourselves and achieve other stress management benefits. The end result is something beautiful which you can enjoy or share.

Let the Anti Boredom Month inspire you to use more and newer ways for stress relief and let happiness flow in abundance.

(Singh is a Chandigarh based psychotherapist)

the ‘in’ side
A touch of bling
Sukhmani

Add a bit of sparkle to the interiors of your home. You don’t have to go over-the-top with all bling, just a subtle touch of it is enough to enliven a room and add some luxe. I’m talking about sophisticated and elegant bling that promises your home some shine. You can add glitter to any area, be it your bathroom or living room. Here are some tips to help you add that wonderful shine to your house–

Just one statement piece, like a chandelier, mirrored furniture or mercury glass home accessory in a corner is enough to raise the bling element in a room. Too much of shine will make your decor look garish.

Use a metallic wallpaper to accent a wall in a room. Metallic wallpapers are a rage today and it is one of the easiest ways to add some glam to your living space. You can also find some wallpapers that are embellished with swarovski crystals.

Silver works best with cool colours like aqua blue, sea green, ivory or grey. Use gold with bold colours like bottle green, teal, peacock blue or plum. Bronze pairs well with red, orange or aubergine tones. Metallic finish on a piece of furniture can do the trick too. Remember that metallic finishes usually make furniture appear larger. You just need one piece of furniture that will make your guests stop and admire it.

Hang crystal lighting fixtures. A crystal chandelier makes a bold statement in any room. Display photographs in crystal, silver or golden coloured frames on a side table. Such a collection usually looks very stunning.

Place a piece of antique mirror furniture in a room. This type of furniture works well with traditional decor as well as in contemporary settings.

Bling can be added to a bedroom by using mirrored side tables, headboards, beautifully embellished cushions or a bed runner. Luxurious fabrics like silk, velvet or satin would be ideal. Kitchens can be made to shine and sparkle with the use of stainless steel sinks and appliances. Consider using countertops that have sparkle built right in them. You can use chrome, brass or polished nickel fittings. Metallic tiles can add the needed pop of bling to kitchens as well as bathrooms. Display collections of clear or transparent coloured glassware or cut glass on mantles and shelves. Many glass dishes and containers can be transformed into candle holders or used for floating candles. Nothing adds sparkle like candles and glass. Mirrors are an excellent way to add light and space to a room. Move slowly, adding single pieces until you get the right balance of sparkle in your space. So go on and add a bit of bling to your house today! 

(Sukhmani is a Chandigarh-based Interior & Landscape designer)

It’s the time to disco 
People of the city get The Hub to have fun and are loving it 
Gurvinder Singh

They danced, swayed, moved through the beaming yellow lights, flickering blue lasers as DJ Li'l B mixed the rumbling electric music.

As the calendar brings Saturday, and the clock rings dark 11, city's party freaks, bathe themselves in music, dance and light and succumb to the temptation with abandon. The latest to join the celebrity DJ bandwagon is The Hub, where an array of celeb DJs are making Ludhianvi's dance to their tunes every week.

It's been a month since the party animals have been swarming the place. Picture a late night start, early morning end, dance and drinks in between. "The atmosphere is just electric. It is good that the party scene is becoming better. We now don't have to go to Chandigarh to have a good time," said Raj, a student.

Sam from Canada is as happy as it gets. "It's small as yet, but nice," he says. There's an echo. Shares Divya, a socialite, "Look at the way, people have been swarming the place. That just shoes, everybody needed a place to wind down and let their hair down. It is good that party scene is getting better as always had to head Chandigarh or Delhi for a good crowd or ambience."

Well, who doesn't want to party in their own city? Nods Nishant, who celebrated his birthday with wife Gunjan, "The scene is totally awesome; I came here for the first time, and never expected so many people to be hitting the dance floor."

There's yet another opinion. "The city is finally moving towards being a metropolitan city," shares Antarpuneet, a businessman.

"It is just fantastic to have celebrity DJ's coming to the city. The late night party culture was missing in the city, and it is good that people in Ludhiana are finally growing to that level," says Puneet, another resident. Here's three cheers to the good times. 

chatter box
Stranger phobia

Actor Ankit Gera aka Mayank in Sapne Suhane Ladakpan Ke is scared of strangers. He claims he takes lot of time to interact and mingle with them. As a result he gets misunderstood as arrogant. But the actor says he has a huge friend circle.

all by myself: Ankit Ghera

A gift to die for!

Everyone dreams of their wedding day to be grand and Indian Idol 6 contestant Devendra Pal Singh has already got his wedding gift from the legendary Asha Bhosle. Judges Anu Malik and Salim Merchant started pulling his leg on the show. They teased him of being young and always opting to sing serious songs. Show hosts Hussain and Mini added salt too by saying that when he will get married, he will understand the meaning of these songs. It was at this point when Judge Asha Bhosle interrupted and said that she promises to attend Devendra’s wedding whenever it happens. After hearing this Devendra’s happiness knew no bounds and he danced all the way back to his seat. 

Mother for law: a still from Tarak Mehta Ka Oolta..Mommie comes to rescue
Jethalal of Gukuldham Society has found a mother. However, it does not mean that Bapu ji is getting married. Jethalal with few other male members of Gokuldham Society in Tarak Mehta Ka Ooltaa Chashmah was caught by the police when they had accidently driven into a no entry lane. The police inspector however, set them free after sometime. But before this he asks Jethalal to call his father to the police station. “How could I do that? I would have got a thrashing over there only,” laughs Jethalal aka Dilip Joshi. He comes up with a fantastic idea and decides to call his mother. That is when ever-loving and helping wife Daya aka Disha Wakani comes in as Jetha’s mother. “She looked so much like an old Gujartai woman,” adds Dilip Joshi.

On cloud nine
Kushal Tandon Kushal Tandon has got many compliments for shaving his head to show support for his love Maanvi who is a cancer patient in Ek Hazzaron Mein Meri Behna Hain. He was surprised to get a call from Hrithik Roshan’s sister, Sunaina Roshan, a cancer survivor who was all praises for his character Viraat. 

Crowning glory: Kushal Tandon

A century and still going strong

Party time: Gurmeet Choudhary and Kratika Sengar Team of Shashi Sumeet Production got a reason to celebrate when one of their serial Punar Vivah, the top runner on Zee TV, completed100 episodes. Celebrities at the do were producer director Sumeet Mittal, Shashi Mittal, Gurmeet Choudhry with wife Debina, Kratika Sengar, Lina Jumani, Gita Tyagi, Dishank Arora, Chetan Pundit, Sarvar Ahuja, Rakesh Kureti, Child actors Divyam Dama, Dhriti Mehta & Palak, Amit Thakur, and many others. 

Sumeet Mittal said, “It’s been a perfectly fruitful journey with Punar Vivah.” Gurmeet Choudhry added, “We will again celebrate after 1000 episodes.” After the cake was cut, all went on the dance floor to groove. Punar Vivaah is a story of remarriage between Aarti and Yash.

Party time: Gurmeet Choudhary and Kratika Sengar

Yash’s high five

We have seen Yash Tonk playing various roles on television as well as in Bollywood. When it comes to movies, he likes the old classics more than the recent movies. We caught with the actor to speak about his five favourite films…

Mother India

It was India’s first entry to Oscars. A classic and my all time favourite. If you look at the film, you will be amazed at how it was shot during those days when there was lack of technology. From bullock cart to horse, the film showcases extremely beautiful rural India.

Sholay

Sholay was the beginning of entertaining cinema. It had everything. Friendship, romance, revenge, it had everything. The movie has been made really well and it remains a favourite of many people and not just me.

Mughal-E-Azam

When it comes to movies, I am really in love with the old ones. Mughal-E-Azam is another film that I love. Be it the songs or the story, the movie is a masterpiece. 

Devdas

I like the old Devdas. I can’t imagine anyone playing the character of Devdas other than Dilip Kumar. I loved him so much in the film. His simplicity, charisma, everything about him is marvelous in the film.

Rang De Basanti

It is a very different film than what we get to see today. It was not only written well but the thoughts were also put so fabulously in the film. It isn’t an easy film and I am sure the actors really worked hard for their characters.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is July 16...

You might receive false information which will cause mental stress. Do not force your opinion on others. Listen to others to avoid conflict. Travel will be beneficial but expensive. A task or conversation you've been putting off is much easier now than you'd think and then it's on to bigger and better things. Nature has bestowed remarkable confidence and intelligence in you, so use it to its best. Long pending arrears and dues will finally be recovered. Your thirst for knowledge will help you make new friends. Your beloved will do things to keep you happy. Financial problems will ruin your ability to think constructively. You might confront with worst of your romance as it may leave you shattered. Take care of what happens around you. Someone might take credit for the work done by you. You'll be very frugal and balanced; your vision of things will be elevated and you'll manage your finances admirably. Your beloved will appreciate your romantic ways; try not to fall into the usual trap - everything will go well and you can enjoy a relaxing phase. The stars will be positive work-wise, giving you an excellent opportunity of working with colleagues and possibility of promotion.

If you try to push the envelope too far, you will be humbled. If you play foolishly, you could end up losing everything. Think of all the good things you have before you risk throwing them away.  You might be making the mistake of thinking you are stronger than you really are.

Mood: Feeling 'wasted time' effort and energy 'resentment.' Compatible signs: Gemini, Cancer. Lucky colours: Gray, Deep sky blue. Lucky days: Monday and Friday. Lucky numbers: 6, 9, 17, 44, 60.

Mr Pawan Kumar Bansal You are also lucky to be born on the same date of Mr Pawan Kumar Bansal (July 16, 1948, Tapa Mandi) who is a member of the 15th Lok Sabha from Chandigarh. He has been re-elected for the 4th term and presently is holding key posts in the Government He was one of the four Cabinet Ministers who had rushed to Swami Ram Dev for making him agree to quit the Fast on June 1, 2011. Mr Bansal’s horoscope ensures him more responsibilities in the Cabinet before end of 2012 and his date of birth 16 supports the victory in 16th Lok Sabha Elections also.

Astro Turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Though “Knight of Swords” gives you a new vision but overindulgence will cause trouble. Be attentive towards those you love, and let bygones be bygones. If you are thinking about dieting, join a gym. Tarot message: Your determination to succeed will pay dividends. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 50

TAURUS: “The Princes of Cups” infuses a youthful disposition in you. This will make you flirtatious but be careful not to ignore those who matter. Love can take a turn if you aren't thoughtful. Tarot message: You should learn to accept responsibility for self and others. Lucky colour: Silver grey. Magic number: 44

GEMINI: You won't be able to count on anyone, so if you are going to go out, prepare to walk. Perhaps someone attractive you know will show that you can mix business with pleasure. Take good care of your health today. Tarot message: Set the unpleasant set of events into motion. Lucky colour: Sea green. Magic number: 35

CANCER: It's time to rid yourself of all the burdens you've been carrying. Nobody will know how you feel if you don't tell them. Excitement can lead to accidents, so try to remain calm.  Tarot message: Use your instinct to get into the top circle of power. Lucky colour: Deep red.  Magic number: 46

LEO: Recent professional setbacks can easily be turned into triumph. You will not get away with wrongful doings. Home renovations or business plans can be reassessed with good outcomes. Discuss investment plans. Tarot message: Don’t be dismissive of advice from youthful origin. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 25

VIRGO: You are on a winning streak. You are more than ready to make a change. Love and romance will have special flavour. Any complaints could lead to a quarrel, so make compromise. Tarot message: Be articulate to prevent people from making their own conclusions. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 39

LIBRA: Today; the “Magician” reveals that your mind should be on money. A Cancerian surprises you with a gift. Accept that other people are not going to do exactly as you would have them. Tarot message: Do not divest assets or transact in uncertain matters. Lucky colour: Sky blue. Magic number: 48

SCORPIO: Don't let anyone make you feel guilty. Do your thing with friends, even if someone wants to ruin your plans. Stay calm and refuse to let anyone get the better of you. Be true to yourself. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Peacock green. Magic number: 63

SAGITTARIUS: “Nine of Cups” is full of light and greets you today as your relationships flower with commitments. The day headed your way is filled with new possibilities. Do your best and promote whatever you believe in. Tarot message: Emphasis on spiritual needs. Lucky colour: Metallic grey. Magic number: 28

CAPRICORN: You will dazzle everyone if you put yourself in the mainstream today. This is a perfect time to entertain or to let others entertain you. A chance to do things with a difference will lead to changes. Tarot message: Don’t forsake a new learning opportunity because of pride. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 56

AQUARIUS: Going away for the weekend or visiting good friends will be a great way to bring in the new day. This is a good time to reflect on days gone by. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid the in build delays that comes your way. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 27.

PISCES: You can have all the fun you want, but make sure you have someone you can count on by your side. A chance to hook up with someone interesting will spark an idea for a new project. Tarot message: Yet work could pose certain minor difficulties but don’t worry. Lucky colour: Rainbow pastels. Magic number: 30.





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