Sequin thing
Right from single-piece dresses, handbags, clutches,hair accessories, belts to footwear, sequin patterns are a rage in the fashion circles these days
Sabia Talwar

If you think that sporting bling stuff gets too tacky, think again. The hottie of Bollywood, Deepika Padukone looks drop-dead gorgeous in the bronze sequin dress she has donned in the movie Cocktail. The most in-thing these days is the sequin pattern, which is present in almost everything right from single-piece dresses, handbags, clutches, hair accessories, belts, footwear to saree blouses.

Says Gunjan Nagpal from Aura, Sector-9, Panchkula, “Bling was definitely in earlier, but one can experiment more now and go all creative with the sequin pattern. Currently there are so many ways you can handle bling, like in my Indian collection I give a sequin saree blouse and the saree itself has light borders and if the blouse is plain, the saree has sequin on the pallu or the pleats.” So rather than committing a fashion faux pas, one can play smart by teaming up the sequin attires with something subdued.

Well, for that matter some may think that this trend just looks good on the ramp and is not practical at all. Says Megha Bajaj, a model from Chandigarh, “It’s not true, one can carry these outfits, but in a calculated manner. As for this season, a fully sequined one-piece dress is a must-have for any young girl’s wardrobe.” A lot depends on one’s body type and whether one can confidently sport the glittering stuff as well. “And please keep in mind sequins are not casual at all, they are a part of the formal line. For the evening, one can probably wear a sequined top with a plain high-waist shorts or a fitted sequin skirt with a plain top,” adds Megha.

One golden rule that should be kept in mind while shopping for the sequin line is try to cut down on the colours. So one can rather go in for blacks, greys, blues or browns and bronzes, rather than the jarring goldens and silvers.

And what about the accessorising part? Says Sania Shukla, Panjab University student, “I’m crazy about collecting accessories and footwear, so when the sequins became a rage I bought hair-bands with sequin designs; I got pumps and peep-toes in sequins but the colours that would go literally with everything. I also got clutches for parties.”

Adds Arshia Pasricha, another youngster pursuing graduation, “This season it seems sequins have taken the fashion world by storm. Be it a clutch, dress, skirt or belt, the right amount of sequin can add glamour to any outfit. Sequin outfits have to be worn appropriately.”

Fashion should not be copied; what looks good on some other person might not be your cup of tea. Says Radhika Mathur, a housewife from Chandigarh, “Although I have seen a lot of girls flaunting the bling, somehow I feel that it would not look good on me. So, I rather go in for clothes that have little sequin work. In a way I’m following the in-thing, but not copying it.”

sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com

Handle it the right way

A few tips can certainly help one avoid fashion blunders. You should only wear one sequinned piece at a time with any outfit and try keeping the colours neutral as well as in the same family. For instance, wear a brown sequin top with brown tights. Sequin accessories such as belts, clutches, scarfs and headbands is another trick to attaining the cheeky look. Do not wear glaring make-up with sequin outfits, but make it as subtle as possible.

Sikka to sequin

The origin of sequins can be traced back to the ancient Mediterranean region. A type of coin, known as a sikka was later translated into today’s term “sequin.” Legend has it that these coins were sewn onto clothing, especially women’s clothes, as a show of wealth. Different types of scarves and other dress were embellished with sequins, which was likely done not only to show wealth but to also keep coins safe, since they were worn on one’s person. The look was apparently attractive to other cultures and eventually became more of a fashion statement. Sequins glitter and shine and when used to embellish clothing and accessories, they create a festive, dressy feel. 

Tale of two artistes
DJ Sameer and Punjabi anchor Jassi say living your passion requires a lot of sweat and toil…
Sabia Talwar

Nowadays, if a certain concept works well and strikes the right chord with people, it definitely enters its next season. Café Coffee Day, Lounge Café’, Sectro-35, Chandigarh sees its second season of The Lounge Journals on Thursday with DJ Sameer and Punjabi anchor Jassi from Chandigarh sharing their journey, their struggle and success.

And the participants are all ears. Says Sameer, “I started my career nine years back when everyone thought that a DJ was a lowly profession.” But the negativity did not stop Sameer and he kept going stronger on his journey. “I have been a resident DJ for lounges like Kava, Zinc, Blue Ice and now 10 Downing Street. Also, I have done sound engineering from Australia, done collaborations with many artistes and recently came out with my solo house track Closer by an Inch,” adds Sameer. Not to forget, the guy is also part of a band called Chakra:vu.

So it has been a tough journey. “Totally, convincing people around what I’m and what I really do was tough. But now I feel satisfied as I introduce new music everyday.” All this while, the expected chatter box Jassi, who was waiting patiently for her turn, chips in, “Sameer talks so much! I think he should have been an anchor.”

Sharing her experience says Jassi, “Nine years back while pursuing my graduation, I decided to go for anchoring as a career option as I loved to talk.” Jassi’s first stint as an anchor was hosting a live family show for Kurkure and since then she has never looked back. “If you want to follow your dreams you have to be courageous and not think what the world will think.”

We ask her for some quick tips on good anchoring. Says Jassi “You should get all names and pronunciations correctly, a good diction is a must and spontaneity and a good sense of humour should always be part of you.”

sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com

Tune in
Melody of the folk...
Manpriya Singh

Not that country music needs any introduction! Not any more. It's been a while since the genre of American popular music that originated in the 1920s, has come into its own. Theoretically speaking, think soft ballads, harmonies coupled with instruments such as harmonicas, guitars and fiddles. For the uninitiated, think artistes like Taylor Swift, Shania Twain, Keith Urban and Lady Antebellum. The music offshoots from the American folk and western cowboy influences.

Hall of fame

On record: Keith Urban

While nobody would remember much about the first generation of country artistes, but names like Johnny Cash and Roy Acuff are etched in the music scenario forever. To begin with, in the eighties the likes of Garth Brooks, Clint Black and Travis Tritt became household names. That's where we pick up the threads from. Travis Tritt, the artiste with shoulder length hair and a breakthrough hit Country Club, his quintessential country songs Help Me Hold On and the recent one like Best Of Intentions need a mention. Cut to the recent country heroes, Lady Antebellum ruled the Grammy Awards in 2011 apart from the best country album Own The Night in 2012. We also need to mention Taylor Swift. She might be a relatively, new on the block, but she is cut out for the country music. Her three studio albums including the country chartbusters, Our Song, Should've Said No, Love Story and You Belong With Me, are a serious contribution, including a Grammy for best country solo performance for the track Mean. Then comes the recent Australian musician, Keith Urban and his solo hit Your Everything. The list is endless, Shania Twain, Dolly Parton and Jim Reeves to name a few. May be there is to the likes of Randy Traywick and George Straight, the artistes who holds countless all time Billboard records.

Youngster's take

It might score less on popularity, but it scores high on loyalty. As someone rightly quoted, "I was introduced to country music around a campfire on a farm."

It's only a matter of finding the right chords and getting introduced to it. Sherry Atwal, drummer with a city based band BlueGrass, opines, "You just need to be introduced to your kind of songs and country music grows on you. I really like Keith Urban's For You and Josh Turner's Time is Love." He adds, "I also like the fact that it's not complicated music. It is easy to recall and even easier to sing a good country song." Perhaps, he's pointing to the generally simple and memorable chorus.

Never mind the debate as to what actually defines the country music, whether it's the instruments or how they are played. Some of the best answers remain one of the reasons for switching to this genre, "If it sounds like country, it is country."

manpriya@tribunemail.com

It's showtime
Delhi-based jewellery designer Divya Bhasin and Jaipur-based fashion designer Gaurav Katta bring their respective collections to Chandigarh
Jigyasa Kapoor Chimra

Shining glory: Divya Bhasin 

The festive season is yet to begin, but we already have a rush of bridal fashion shows and exhibitions lined-up for the people who are waiting to add some colour to their wardrobes. Beginning with a bridal show some weeks back, we now have Delhi-based jewellery designer Divya Bhasin and Jaipur-based fashion designer Gaurav Katta who bring their collections to Chandigarh at Kidsown in Sector 17.

Just jewels

A well-known name in the jewellery world, Divya Bhasin is one of the first designers who presented jewellery in a fashion show. Having brought out her first line of contemporary jewellery in September 1995, she at that time created a mini-riot in the socio-cultural circuits for the lovers of art jewellery. "It was a natural course of action to find creativity in jewellery designing," says Divya. Having done a course at the prestigious Gemmological Institute of America, Santa Monica, USA, she set up a design studio in 1994, interestingly called 'Jewels for the 21st Century'. She has moved on with varied collections that have been inspired from travelling, art-works, paintings, nature and more.

Divya's pieces are the result of a lot of influences; a bit of the world trend infused with her creativity and heritage. She says, "I learn from things around me; nature, different places and even my clients. And that's the reason I am personally here for every show of mine."

Festoon fabric

If you are looking for some traditional fabrics and designs, Gaurav Katta, fashion designer from Jaipur, brings some great pieces. From jackets with a Western outline to suits and saris, he has tunics in gotta patti, hand-embroidery, colour-blocking and rajwadi colours. "I have brought the desert hues in my collection and considering that traditional work is in vogue, I have used a lot of gotta patti and traditional hand-embroidery," he says.

(On till, August 25)

Fun platter

The Blue Blazer has introduced a fun food menu which promises a delicious indulgence anytime of the day. The new menu offers comfort food which brings in familiar munchies, large platters to be shared with friends and some street-style snacks as well.

Now you can choose from a pleasing array of crowd favourites like the chilli cheese toast, chicken nuggets, as well as classics like tandoori chicken tikka and paneer pakodas. For all those who look for super size platters for a really big meal or just to share with friends are the new monster munch platters. From loaded nachos (tortilla chips loaded with cheese, beans and jalapenos) to assorted potatoes (masala fries, tornado potatoes and paprika potato wedges), there is something for everyone- If you are looking for something lighter, opt for the new maharaja salad - which combines all the yummy Indian flavours of chicken tikka, mint, onions and tomatoes with tangy mango chutney.

The fun does not stop here. The foodies can enjoy the chicken double cheese burger or BBQ lamb burger while for vegetarians there are options like Spanish-style zucchini frittata burger, or a spicy black bean and jalapeno burger. The sandwich section offers a great variety for those in-between times with selections like the chicken and brie cheese sandwich, classic coleslaw sandwich, falafel pita pocket, and chicken tikka pita pocket.

Take a departure from the usual and try the new 'white pizzas' with a cheese sauce base. As a spicier option are the arabiatta sauce "red pizzas." For toppings choose from smoked chicken, black pepper shrimp, wild mushrooms and corn, smoked pepperoni, and gourmet vegetable.

TNS

Green thumb
Hedge it 
Satish narula

A hedge has always been the topic of discussions with gardeners. Which is the best hedge plant that gives proper screening? Does this only mean a screen? There are other things for consideration for the gardeners.

No doubt the purpose of the hedge is only screening but there are many factors attached to the selection of plants for creating a hedge. Do not forget that the hedge is the face of the house. It has to be the best. But we see it in neglect in most of the cases and this neglect is due to certain reasons. One, wrong selection of plants for creating the hedge. In some cases, especially when the residence is not ones own and it's a government house, there is mixture of plants that forms a hedge. This mixture of plants constitutes hibiscus, lantana, Clerodendron and anything that grows on its own. Some gardeners use flowering shrubs for hedge while others try tree species like Ashok and casurina. Now let us see whether these kind of flora make good hedges?

One should not use flowering shrub plants like hibiscus, gardenia etc for hedges. Let us also understand one thing that the shrub plants that are selected should take repeated cuttings well. As the hedge plants need repeated cuttings to keep them in order, the terminals get cut. As in most of the shrubs, the flowering takes place at the terminals, therefore it is of no use to select a flowering shrub for a hedge. Never allow any plant mixture in running shrub. When tree species like Ashok (pendula) is used, it has to be a close planting and every year it has to be headed back at a certain height. When allowed to grow straight up, it ends up branching and bending dangerously on sides. It may also break with winds. Trees species like casurina (see the accompanying species) has been used successfully by some gardeners. But after a few years it becomes too woody and as it grows old, the number of leaves is reduced near the head.

Even in case of shrub plants like aliar the base becomes woody and barren exposing the hedge at the base. Hedge plants like murraya are prone to powdery mildew attack. In this case, the leaves become white due to the powdery fungal mass. If it is not controlled in time, the plant may dry creating a gap in running hedge. One of the best shrub plants for creating effective hedge is Clerodendron inermi. For colour effect one could also go in for Duranta species plants like Duranta variegate or Golden Duranta.

(Narula is a senior PAU horticulturist)

TRENDSETTER
Dressed to the nines

To get that 'suave' look, young men of today spare no effort to wear the latest. They also know how to dress for the occasion — classy for formal occasions and a studied casual look for informal ones. Handsome and smart doctors have been the center of many a romantic story. Let's see what our handsome Dr Rajdeep Singh Chhina has to say about fashion:

Sporty streak: Dr Rajdeep Singh Chhina PHOTO: INDERJEET VERMA

Your sense of style…

Immaculately dressed for formal occasions is the look for me.

Latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories…

A watch from Bvlgari.

Brand crazy or street pick ups?

Brands any time, especially for their fit and not for any snob value.

Your style icon would be…

If I can pick three then they are — Andy Roddick, Christiano Ronaldo and 
Tiger Woods.

Who do you think is the worst-dressed celebrity?

Tusshar Kapoor for sure!

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

Sporty, no doubt.

One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension…

Coloured hair and funky hairstyles for both men and women bug me.

Your take on accessories?

I go for no other accessories but for classy watches and belts. No bracelets for me!

Given a choice which designer would you be liked to be dressed by?

Armani is the best.

What gives you a high on the confidence level?

When I feel I am dressed up properly and conversing appropriately, I feel confident! More than dressing up, I think what matters is the way you conduct yourself.

As told to Poonam Bindra

STAR TRACK
Katrina chooses SRK over Aamir


Tough choice: Katrina Kaif

Katrina Kaif is caught between the starry demands of Bollywood's two superstars. While Aamir Khan is waiting for Katrina in Chicago to practice his stunts for Dhoom 3 with her, Shah Rukh Khan, who is shooting Yash Chopra's untitled project in Ladakh, wants Katrina with him to shoot some 'complex scenes'.

Katrina, we hear, was supposed to shoot for two weeks with Shah Rukh in Ladakh and then head to Chicago to join Aamir Khan for two weeks. Being the complete perfectionist when it comes to his expertise, Aamir wanted the beautiful actress to come to America and perfect their stunts before the shooting stars. 

Alas, on SRK's insistence, Katrina now needs to stay in Ladakh for few more days. According to the grapevine, Shah Rukh has some solo scenes to shoot and Katrina's presence is not required, nonetheless SRK feels he will be able to focus better for the complicated scenes if Katrina is by his side.

It is unquestionably Aamir Khan's loss. According to the original plan, we are told, Aamir wanted to practice some important sequences with Katrina. This would have given the two actors enough time and scope to warm up to each and behaving naturally onscreen.

But now when Katrina heads to Chicago, she might have to face the camera directly, without rehearsals.

This episode might prompt yet another controversy about the battle between the two Khans, and in all probability one can simply blame SRK for holding Kat back in Ladakh. But we think Aamir is equally responsible for not having enough time to rehearse his scenes with Katrina. Remember, it was he who initially postponed the shoot of Dhoom 3 due to his other commitments.

But we are sure that the Perfectionist Khan will make up for the loss by giving his best and by drawing an excellent performance out of Kat when she joins him. Right, Aamir?

 

Wrong move

new plan: Sagarika Ghatge




Sagarika Ghatge says that doing Chak De! India was a mistake because it was not a planned move. Her career has not taken great strides since. She will be seen in Shamim Desai's next movie opposite Emraan Hashmi. She found him very inspiring because he is always prepared with his lines on set.

Aaradhya looks different now: Abhishek

Doting dad: Abhishek Bachchan

Abhishek Bachchan, who presently in Chicago shooting for Dhoom 3, had recently thinks that his daughter Aaradhya different now. "Well, this is weird - I go on a promotional tour, I come back and her face has changed. And I am being told that for the first year or two, her face is going to keep changing," the actor said.

There is no doubt that Junior Bachchan wants the little one to look like her mom Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. "I don't know how good or bad a thing that is, because I am sure we all want her to look like her mom. I mean looking like this (he points to his face, and laughs) would be a bit scary for a girl," he added.

 

Tom Cruise loses 14lbs post divorce 

Actor Tom Cruise has reportedly shed 14lbs after the collapse of his marriage to Katie Holmes. Holmes shocked Hollywood and blindsided Cruise by filing for divorce in June and seeking sole custody of daughter Suri.

Cruise had admitted he was deeply saddened by Holmes' choice but the actor seemed to be coping well and was busy shooting for his new film Oblivion. However pictures of Cruise from last month have now shown what the strain of the collapse of his marriage has had on him. Pictured on July 10 on the set of Oblivion, the 50-year-old looked quite beefed up compared to slim figure he cut three weeks later on July 28 in Malibu having lunch with his lawyer. It has been reported that since Cruise got word of Holmes' decision he has dived deeper into work, and is ignoring concern from his family members. "Tom's friends and family have urged him to take a break, but he has brushed off their concern. He is refusing to slow down and is trying to soldier on. He doesn't seem to be himself. —PTI 

Catching up


Bonding over: Sridevi and Yash Chopra

When Yash Chopra learnt that Sridevi was shooting in Yash Raj Studios for English Vinglish, he personally dropped by to see her. She is one of his favourite heroines and they have done movies like Chandni together. They chatted about the good old days and also about her movie and comeback. He praised her on her look in the film and the vibe of the movie.


Bollywood calling

Television actor Vikrant Massey of Balika Vadhu fame has a supporting role in Sonakshi-Ranveer starrer Lootera. He is also doing a full-fledged film with the producers which will begin next year! He will also be seen in an episode of Gumraah, a crime series. This is great news for the talented actor!

Wishful thinking


Once again: Deepika Padukone

Deepika Padukone is thrilled with the success of Cocktail and wants to work Saif Ali Khan again. They have already shot four movies together: Race 2, Aarakshan, Love Aaj Kal, and Cocktail. They get along well and their jodi is a hit so they want to domore films together.




Tigmanshu plays a lawyer

Tigmanshu Dhulia had an important role in both the Gangs of Wasseypur movies. He plays a lawyer in Hansal Mehta's movie Shahid which is about the true story of slain human rights activist and lawyer Shahid Khan. 

Farah ki toh nikal padi

Farah Khan is 47 years old and making her film debut now! Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi is an unconventional comedy of people meeting and falling in love over the age of 40.

Interestingly, for Farah, she also got married later in life. Farah said, “I’m so happy that I am promoting the film and really connecting with my audience. I hope that I have given them an idea of how much fun this film is actually going to be." She further added, “Love does not recognise age; it can happen at any time. Once you cross 40 it doesn’t mean you’re past your expiry date, you can still fall in love.” “Forty is unfortunately regarded as the cut-off age for marriage and relationships. Once you turn 25 even your parents give up hope, this film will bring new hope to people who feel this way. It’s a wonderful story that shows the ability of love to transcend the obstacle that age poses and allows people to find it at any age.” added Bela Bhansali Sehgal, the director of the movie.

 

Kristen turns to Gandhi

Actress Kristen Stewart is reportedly struggling to forgive herself after cheating beau Robert Pattinson and has turned to the writings of Mahatma Gandhi to cope with it.

Stewart had a brief fling with director Rupert Sanders. "Kristen is trying to find inner peace. Gandhi's words have certainly helped her find peace ," says a source. —IANS

New trailers on air…
Here’s a quick recap of promos that have been launched recently…

Ajab Gazzab Love

Kirron Kher steals the show in this funny promo about a boy and his family pretending to be poor to impress the girl. Jackky Bhagnani shows off his physique many times. It is genuinely laugh-worthy and clean!

Chakravyuh

It is a Prakash Jha so the trailer is long and has chaste Hindi and North Indian dialects. The characters are many and impressive. Arjun and Abhay are particularly impressive. We are looking forward to this political thriller about cops vs Naxals.

Student of The Year

This is plain thanda though we have to admit that Aalia Bhatt is cute. We do not think much of the boys and the trailer seems too long. It is hard to believe Karan Johar has made this movie. We hope it is better than the promo.

English Vinglish

This is a situational comedy about Sridevi's character going to America and then learning English. So it is about her adventure in the United States as she learns a new language and acquires a new identity. Sridevi looks great. 

Yeh Kahan Aa Gaye Hum

This is a movie everyone is waiting for! Out on November 13, the promo shows us a montage of Yash Chopra's previous romantic movies. The teaser only introduces the actors and they all look absolutely gorgeous! It is a love triangle.

chatter box
Story behind the moustache 


dedicated actor: Aamir Dalvi

Some roles demand a lot more from actors than just acting. Actor Aamir Dalvi seems to have landed up with a similar role. Dalvi, by his own confession dislikes growing a moustache in real life but has decided to grow one for his latest role of a cop in Hum Ne Li Hai Shapath. The actor reveals, "I am playing the role of Kavi, who is very Mumbiya and crude. He speaks tapori language and while he dons different avatars for each of his cases, his language remains the same. To add to the character, I thought of growing my moustache as it makes my character look tougher and handsome."

 

 

On love, life & more….
Gurmeet Chaudhary he talks about love, romance, marriage and his lovely wife Debina. Read on…

What is romance according to you?

mush factor: Gurmeet Chaudhary

Romance is a feeling in your heart when you want to move the earth for your loved one. You don't think twice about crossing all boundaries for your loved one. When you do everything for your beloved, just to get a heartfelt smile from them that is romance.

They say marriages are made in heaven, do you agree?

Everyone knows my story of how I fell in love with my wife Debina. We were friends and then one day I told her I will marry you. I was actually flirting with her. The words came true and today we are married. I truly believe that you are destined to meet your life partner and when you do, you know that person is for you. Yes, marriages are made in heaven.

How would you define marriage?

Many people think marriage is a burden and one is tied down post marriage, which I don't think should be the case. People say that post marriage, spouse objects to a lot of things. Marriage for me is a promise to your partner that you will love him or her forever. We married for the society but nothing changed between us. Marriage is actually to show the society that you are together but if it doesn't work, you can always get a divorce.

Do you think love is blind?

Love is totally blind (laughs) you see no flaw in your partner in whatever you do for them, even if otherwise it is wrong. You are ready to go to any length in love.

A cool romantic date would be...

I would go to a beach with Debina and simply be with her. Goa is a special place for both of us as we have spent some great time there. When we were nobodies, we would go there and explore a lot. We would roam around, so we relive those times and feel closer than ever.

 

The second best thing

Neil Bhatt

When one thinks of a show on Ramayan, every actor would vie to play the role of Lord Rama. Actor Neil Bhatt, who wowed viewers as the male lead Abhi in Zee TV's 12/24 Karol Bagh, is no exception.

The actor confesses that when he was approached for Ramayan, he was keen to be cast as Ram. "As an actor, it is only natural to want the meatiest role that allows one to fully showcase his range of talent. I was definitely keener to be cast as Ram at first. But now I clearly see that it is all three - Ram, Sita and Lakshman who are the key protagonists of Ramayan and the role of lakshman holds ample scope for me to perform as an actor." Neil Bhatt is currently using his time to read the Ramcharitmanas and capture the finer nuances of the great epic and more specifically, his role. He is also investing time and energy into getting into his finest form for the role as he will shortly begin shooting in Baroda. His regimen includes Power Yoga, Pilates and intensive cardiovascular training.

Neil has also acquainted himself with his extensive wardrobe and elaborate make-up for the role of Lakshman. The actor plans to master the art of getting his look together in less than 30 minutes. "The show has opened up to a very positive response. The music by the ace composer Ravindra Jain has been widely appreciated.

 

Daler’s a sport!

Daler Mehendi on the
Daler Mehendi on the sets of Laugh India Laugh 

Daler Mehendi recently added to the shooting fervour as a special guest on Life Ok's show, Laugh India Laugh. He was very excited to be a part of the show and kept asking a crew member about some of the Pakistani contestants. He not only had a hearty chat with the participants, but also surprised them when he asserted that he had actually taped some of their performances on CDs. Charged up from interaction with them, Daler went on to do a fantastic and energy packed performance on the show and didn't mind the late hours as he sat enjoying and laughing through the non-stop 7-8 hour shoot for the show! 

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Sacrifices today can put you in a far better place in future. Promotion? Talk to your boss. Real estate transactions should not be started. Sudden travel could disturb your plans. Tarot message: Now is the need to question your judgment. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 60

TAURUS: You have stretched your relationship a bit too far. Speak your mind to your beloved to clear misunderstanding. Property deals get concluded. Tarot message: Don’t be too certain about obtaining a clearance or permission as the process is very tiring. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 42

GEMINI: It is a day to forget worries of the work. Talk to superiors and see what they can offer. Romance is on your mind. Uncooperative family members will throw a spanner in your life. Tarot message: You need to take things slowly and listen to your inner voice. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 62

CANCER: Today you will be in an enthusiastic frame of mind. Matters connected with the state or government agency will happen smoothly. Loss through speculation is on cards. Tarot message: Change the status quo both at work and relationships by voicing your feelings. Lucky color: Silver grey. Magic number: 29

LEO: Trying to get sometime for yourself could be the hardest thing today. Relax and be a little more tolerant. Don’t find faults with people who are dear to you. Extravagance could get the better of you. Tarot message: Follow your instincts and don’t hesitate to act accordingly. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 30

VIRGO: Teamwork is the keynote of the day. Home life will be pleasant. Older people may drum up certain problems. Control on drinks. Teamwork and happy relationships mark this day.Tarot message: Draw on those inner energies and begin to move from thought to action. Lucky colour: Rusty. Magic number: 64

LIBRA: Life is not always a bed of roses. Relatives will be sensitive and difficult to get along with. Do not get involved in any land deal. Emotions have to be controlled. No pain no gain. Tarot message: Any confrontation needs to be managed with care. Lucky colour: Royal blue. Magic number: 59

SCORPIO: You will be happy in the company of friends. A right time to strengthen ties with partners. Find moderate pleasures. Answer an invitation affirmatively. Tarot message: You must realise that it’s important to enjoy your dreams but be sure that you don’t play tricks with yourself.Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 41

SAGITTARIUS: Relax; there is no work pressure at all. Friends will be easy going and willing to fall in love with your plans. Property matters are highlighted. A romantic alliance is likely to blossom by the evening. Tarot message: Do not let anyone take advantage of you. Lucky colour: Burgundy. Magic number: 46

CAPRICORN: Best day to get things done by people in power. You will get an opportunity to become a member of an important club. Family affairs run along smoothly. Tarot message: Be determined and increase your self-confidence, which will be on trial. Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 25

AQUARIUS: Love relationships are bubbling with excitement. Making a spontaneous trip can fill a need for variety. Students will get down to their tasks and creative hobbies. Expect a few visitors at night. Tarot message: Win the war with honesty, not by distorting facts. Lucky colour: Cream. Magic number: 27

PISCES: Tendencies for manipulation or revenge should be controlled and contained.Political bosses, danger looms large over the head. Industrial owners to take care of labour problem. Tarot message: Trust your heart and intuition rather than confuse yourself. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 43

The year ahead 
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is August 24...Charity work will bring mental peace and comfort. Don’t make investments in haste. Losses are certain if you don’t look at investments from all possible angles. Domestic work will be tiring and become a major cause of stress. There is no hope for romance. If you run from a situation, it will follow you in the worst possible manner.

You’re a little more outgoing than usual, yearning for pleasant company. This is a great time to make the rounds of your favourite neighbourhood hang-outs. If you spot somebody interesting in a pub or at the library, strike up a conversation. The two of you will have plenty of interests in common. Ask your new friend for a book or movie recommendation. 

You’ll have heaps of initiative as well as flair and this will allow you to complete things ahead of time as also grasp all opportunities. Expect small quarrels over foolish matters; try not to be stubborn or conservative and this will give you equilibrium once more. You will not have to wait long for positive results. Emotions run deep as family expansion plans are likely for some of you. Spending may rise sharply. Art investment will pay big dividends in the long term. Mood: Under pressure to get things done. Compatible signs: Sagittarius, Aries. Lucky colours: Olive, navy blue Lucky days: Friday. Lucky numbers: 2, 20, 51,99

 

Karrine Steffans (born August 24, 1978) is an American author, most noted for the Vixen series of books. She has worked as an actress and as a hip-hop model, having appeared in more than 20 music videos, many by platinum selling rap artists. Steffans visits college campuses to speak to young women about the dangers of the entertainment industry. Steffans also appeared in the action movie, A Man Apart, starring Vin Diesel.

New releases
A still from the Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi
A still from the Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi

Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi

Producer: Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Sunil A. Lulla

Director: Bela Sehgal

Star cast: Boman Irani, Farah Khan, Kavin Dave, Shammi, Kurush Deboo and Daisy Irani

Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi is director Bela Sehgal’s upcoming comedy, which has Boman Irani and Farah Khan in lead roles. The film marks the debut of Bela Sehgal as director and Farah’s first film as an actor. The filmmaker-turned actress Farah Khan did a lot of ground work to perfect her Parsi character of a 40-year-old single lady. Designer Dilnaz Karbhary has transformed her into the lovely Shirin. Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi also has Kavin Dave, Shammi, Kurush Deboo and Daisy Irani.

The film’s biggest talking point is its unusual pairing of Boman Irani and Farah Khan in producer Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s romantic comedy, in which some people get naughty at 40.

The Expendables 2

Producer: Kevin King Templeton, Les Weldon, Danny Lerner, Avi Lerner

Director: Simon West

Stylester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger-The Rocky and Terminator super stars unite together in the an action film The Expendables 2. The return of Sylevester Stallene post his son’s death and Arnold Schwarzenegger who stepped down as California Governor has created a lot of buzz. It’s being touted as a fast pace action film, in which bad boys are back. A real railway bridge over the river Osam in Bulgaria was built for the film.

Dharam Pal





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