Joint venture
The growing number of working class couples nowadays have revived the joint family system once again. This Grandparents’ Day, here’s a tribute to the contribution of the elders
Jigyasa Kapoor Chimra

Conventional wisdom is that as society progresses joint families break-up into nuclear units, but with time the family structure has undergone rapid changes and joint families are back, especially amid the working couples’ class. They have understood the importance of ‘staying in a joint family’, especially the need of grandparents who not only pamper the kids but also help them become better human beings. This Grandparents’ Day we talk to mothers, who on the brink of leaving their jobs, found support in a joint family set-up.

Grand aid

“A harmonious joint family set-up can be a boon. It can provide a wonderful support system, emotionally as well as financially. In the ideal sense, one can share both one’s triumphs and failures. Above all, the joint family is ideal for the woman who wants to work as well as have a family. Working women have someone to leave their children with when they are away, rather than leaving their children in a crèche or with servants. After all, as they say, “blood is thicker than water”, says Ritika Malhotra, a banker. She adds, “Initially I had to take a break from my career as I had no one to take care of my son and he was suffering from loneliness. But then we decided to move in with our parents and that has made our lives much simpler. My son is a stronger boy now.”

Golden bond

“Despite my working status we planned two kids just because we are staying in a joint family,” says Ranjana Prashar, who works in the finance department of a private company. She adds, “Grandparents are more like friends to kids as they have the patience and experience of handling children. While people in nuclear families enjoy the privacy of staying alone and have the independence of doing what they like, there is no comparison to the love that kids get from grandparents. And more than that, joint set-up is a boon if a woman has to make a career and have a life of her own at the same time.”

Worth it

“Staying in a joint family has its positives and negatives. One has to be patient and adjust to the norms of the family,” says Rishu Gupta, employee of a telecom company in Mohali. She adds, “Staying in a joint family is not a bed of roses and compromises have to be made, but the end result is worth it. Since elders, siblings and cousins are there, the kid learns to share and even fight for his rights. And in today’s world of tough competition this is what makes the child emotionally and physically stronger.”

Best bet

Been to Chennai and back to Chandigarh, for Richa Taneja, home-maker from Sector 4, Panchkula, nuclear set-up is good for a few days and for couples who have a busy working schedule.

“If one has to plan a family, you need a back-up and what better than grandparents. We stayed in a nuclear set up for some months, but had to come back since I was working and there was no one to look after my kids. And considering that grandparents are the best pals for kids, we are glad that we came back. Right from etiquettes to religious knowledge, children get to learn everything.”

Calm & Composed
Music composer Shamir Tandon, of Page 3 and Fashion fame, says each step he takes is a learning experience
Mona


TUNED IN: Shamir Tandon

Kitne Ajeeb Rishte Hain Yahan Pe remains composer Shamir Tandon’s favourite song from his own repertoire. After all, how many of the young music composers have got legendary Lata Mangeshkar singing their debut song in the first film?

A music composer and managing director (this MBA started his career in merchant banking, has been a cost accountant and more) considers himself blessed to have Lata Mangeshkar record the song for him. Well-qualified for a corporate career, it was a chance meeting with director Madhur Bhandarkar at a Mumbai five-star hotel that made Shamir shift gears.

“There was this instant chemistry at our meeting. Our first film together Page 3 won us a national award and that only strengthened the bond,” says Shamir, who has done three more films with Madhur – Fashion, Traffic Signal and Jail.

This rather young composer has had little training in formal music, but has learnt with time. A hundred odd jingles and a few music albums paved the way for a glorious innings that awaited him in Bollywood. “I would call that bit of home cricket before making an international debut,” he laughs. Having done an album with Asha Bhonsle, Shamir credits much of his learning to her and Kalyanji Anandji with whom he has spent considerable time.

Currently, Shamir is busy working on the remake of Zanjeer. “Unlike films like Don, we are not recreating songs here but composing new music all together.” Well, waiting for more!

mona@tribunemail.com

Word wise

Having worked with legends like Lata, Asha, Manna Dey and Jagjit Singh, composer Shamir Tandon’s latest challenge was recording Pal with Indian Idol 6 finalists. “The voices were raw and training them in studio-recording in very little time was a huge challenge.” But then along with Amit, Devindra, Vipul and Poorvi, Shamir had fun. Is he in favour of reality show stars? “All’s well as long as the winners take the win as the starting point and not the finish line,” says Shamir. There is no substitute for hardwork, he warns, along with advising the young and the restless to go for academics. “Education is a must, not only just for theoretical knowledge but for all-round development.” Coming from this qualified and successful music composer…youngsters, better pay heed! 

What’s brewing?
Mona

All you beer lovers, Tricity has a new address to savour the brew. Ooze the Brauhaus is the newest microbrewery that opened its doors on Friday. This dimly-lit hangout with groovy music has four kinds of beer Ale, Pilsner, Stout and Wheat on offer. Through the glass division you can to peep into the 3HL capacity brew house.

Suraj Pratap Sidhu, a trained hand in food processing, has found able company in Amir R Mishra, head brewer, trained in brewing and distilling from the UK to open yet another microbrewery in Tricity (there are only about 15 in the whole country). Suraj sees a lot of potential in food processing in the region, and is sure that his quality beer would find favour with patrons. This place claims to get the best of malt from Australia, yeast from Belgium and France and hops from Germany and Czech to make fresh, natural, unfiltered beer. “You can compare our beer to home-cooked food,” Amit draws the comparison between his brew and commercial beer. “We follow the principle of Bavarian Purity Law which means the only ingredients to be used in the production of beer are water, barley malt, hops and yeast,” says Suraj.

You can savour spicy Mexican, continental, Chinese and Indian cuisines with your beer here. Cheers to good times…

mona@tribunemail.com

Need for speed
Jasmine Singh


race on: Members of the organising committee of motorsport event Renault Speed Sprint. 

If you happen to be the adventurous type, then this is a news that could be of interest to you. The one of its kind motorsport event Renault Speed Sprint gives you a chance to make your adrenaline go pumping. A 5 km-stretch of the double lane tarmac road, in the periphery of the city, is set up as stage for a single-stage high-speed event.

All racing lovers can get on their motorbikes, car/SUV or a four wheeler prepared especially for rallying. The day-long event on Sunday is organised by Team Chandigarh Adventure Sports. Says Nikhil Jaspal, one of the members, “Renault speed sprint is governed by the stringent safety regulations of the Federation of Motorsports Clubs of India. Other than this the tarmac track is laid out over a small area, which improves viewer-ship.”

The thrill for motorsports is on the rise, and the three categories in this event (Renault Speed Sprint Cross, Speed Sprint Zap and Speed sprint Moto) sees participation from across north with 15 super bikes. 

A take on countryside
Mona

An avid follower of literature, Narinder Jit Kaur has made translation her forte. With three translated volumes to her credit (from Punjabi to English), she has just released her fourth one. Commissioned by the Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi, Town and the Countryside is the translation of Punjabi author Sujan Singh’s anthology of short stories, Shehr Te Gran.

The desire to get Punjabi literature a wider readership made this writer dabble in translation, a process she finds fulfilling. While Narinder’s earlier works Twilight (a novella by Dalip Kaur Tiwana), Anndatta—The Hand That Feeds (by Baldev Singh) and Voices in the Backyard (a collection of 15 short stories written by prominent Punjabi women writers) were the ones that she picked, Town and the Countryside is different for she did not choose her subject this time. But the journey has been as fruitful.

TROUBLE SHOOTER 
It’s a matter of mind
Simmi Waraich

I need some tips for dealing with my never-ending fear that I have some serious illness. I was calm all day, then I scratched under my arm, and now have convinced myself that deep down there is something wrong and that I have some type of cancer. Even though I just went to the doctor last week to get checked for breast cancer. I'm 23 years old. I can't deal with this. I keep reading things online.

Kamalpreet, Chandigarh

At times, some people have repeated intrusive thoughts that they have a serious illness or that something is wrong with them. Or even that the illness they have is a sign that they are always ill. People with this fear are unable to control their anxiety no matter how much they are reassured. In fact avoid reassurance as that worsens the situation. Patients with hypochondriasis often are not aware that depression and anxiety produce their own physical symptoms, and mistake these symptoms for manifestations of a non-psychological disorder or disease. There is an excessive preoccupation with the physical symptoms which affects the person's normal life. Stay away from the Internet and ride out the obsession. Treatment involves medication and cognitive behaviour therapy.

My husband and I are separated. My daughter does not like anything I do and is extremely irritated with me. She blames me for everything. I do not stop her from talking to her father but he does not care much for her. He calls her only when he feels like. She becomes very aggressive with me.

Anita, Panchkula

It can be difficult for a child, especially if they have witnessed a bad marriage from early on. Many parents fight or argue or talk about the other in front of the child which can be very unsettling.

She is taking out her anger on you. Do tell her it is okay to talk and let out her feelings. Instead of getting angry in return maybe you can acknowledge her feelings by paraphrasing what she says to you. Like "It sounds like you are upset with me for your father leaving. What you are saying is that he left because of me." Even if her anger seems illogical to you, just avoid overreacting to what she says- if you are getting upset, leave the room after telling her that you don’t agree with her but do not wish to get into an argument so you are leaving. Tell her you are willing to talk once she calms down. If you react and get angry at her in turn, it becomes an endless cycle of accusations. Break out of the cycle by not reacting angrily.

At times talk to her and discuss what you and your husband are planning- if you are planning a divorce. Tell her you are both still her parents and both will be there for her.

(Waraich is a Chandigarh-based consultant psychiatrist)

TRENDSETTER
Chain reaction


Gimme red: Silky Ajmani

It has never been so good for fashion conscious, for they are in the midst of a fashion revolution. Those who can blend their personal style with the latest trend, merit a second look. Demure and petite, Silky Ajmani, a student of BA, sure knows her mind when it comes to fashion.

Your sense of style…

Suitability is my priority. A T-shirt with jeans and open footwear look cool to me.

Latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories…

My red belles.

Brand crazy or street pick-up?

For jeans, it has to be branded but for other things a mix of both would do.

Your style icon would be…

None other than Sonam Kapoor as she is the ultimate fashion diva.

Who do you think is the worst dressed celebrity?

Vidya Balan for sure!

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

Glamorous.

One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension…

I like all fashions but do not like to wear ‘aunty’ type suits!

Your take on accessories ?

Oh! I simply love them especially long chains and different kinds of watches.

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

Our own Sonu Gandhi.

What gives you a high on the confidence level?

When I get compliments for my stylish look, I feel damn good and confident!

—As told to Poonam Bindra

STAR TRACK
Bold, beautiful & Bollywood

Actresses today don’t mind getting intimate on screen, wearing bikinis or even taking off their clothes for movies and magazine covers. Read on to find more about some actresses who have shed inhibitions lately.

 

Parineeti Chopra
: The bubbly newcomer had rather bold and long lovemaking scenes with Arjun Kapoor in Ishaqzaade and did it with self-confidence. She says she loves acting so much that she doesn’t mind doing anything she is asked to and would even slim down to wear a bikini.

Deepika Padukone: Veronica is quite a bold heroine and Deepika played her sportingly and with aplomb. It is not every day that the heroine smokes, drinks, has one night stands and lives with her fling. Deepika’s act contributed to Cocktail’s success in a big way and she looked spectacular in the red bikini! 

Esha Gupta: She has been a Kingfisher model and posed topless for the calendar. She wore a few sexy costumes in Jannat 2 and even got cozy with Emraan Hashmi.

In Raaz 3, her second film, the dusky beauty has indulged in some passionate lovemaking with Emraan once again.

The leggy lass looks super hot on covers of men’s magazines. She is sexy and she knows it!

Kareena Kapoor: The superstar has gone all out in Madhur Bhandarkar’s Heroine. She smokes, she screams, she lashes out against people. She uses foul language, and she gets into bed with two different guys. This is her boldest and bravest role yet.



Bipasha Basu
: She is pure evil in Raaz 3 and she plays the wicked character with style.
As the stunning and seething-with-anger Shanaya Shekhar, she smokes, she schemes against her sister, she seduces and blackmails Emraan, and she will go to any length to stay on top.This is one of her finest performances yet.

 

 

 

Kaalia to be remade?

Of late a lot of old films done by Amitabh Bachchan are being remade. Topping the list is the late Prakash Mehra’s film Zanjeer, the shooting of which is going on in full swing.

The latest film of the veteran star that is up to be remade is the Tinnu Anand directed Kaalia that had Bachchan donning the role of Kaalia — younger brother of Kadar Khan. It is heard that Rajat Rawail has picked up the remaking rights of the film from Iqbal Singh, the maker of the original.

Confirming about his picking up the rights, Rawail said, “I have indeed bought the rights of Amitabh Bachchan’s 1981 film, Kaalia. Once I have a director on board, I’ll set up a writing team to give the story a contemporary feel. And after the script is ready, I will approach a top star and I hope that whoever I offer the film, agrees to act in it.”

It is now being widely said that Rawail might approach either of Salman Khan, Ajay Devgn or Akshay Kumar for the role. “I’m indebted to Salman Bhai because whatever I’m today is after his association with my film Ready. I also have high regards for Ajay Sir and Akshay Sir.”

Giving reasons of him picking Kaalia, Rawail observed, “In today’s times, I see more potential for Kaalia as a brand than it had, way back then. It’s hard-hitting lines like Hum jahaan khade ho jaate hain, line vahin se shuru ho jaati hai is mouthed by actors even today.” Interestingly, Rawail also wants to retain a couple of songs of the film. “Yes, like Jahaan Teri Yeh Nazar Hai, Jabse Tumko Dekha, and Tum Saath Ho Jab Apne,” he ended.

 

Asha Bhosle’s acting debut at 80!

Asha Bhosle has decided to give back a little to the industry which has given her all the love and adulation over the years.

The legendary singer has launched Mission Mai to extend a hand of support to 80 elderly people from the industry.

The beneficiaries will all be artistes and technicians from the film fraternity and from all over India.

As she has completed 80 years on September 8, the producers of Ashaji’s Hindi debut film Mai had put together an event where singers like Sukhwinder Singh, Amit Kumar, Shankar Mahadevan, Annu Malik, Shaan, Suresh Wadkar, Salim Merchant, Sapna Mukherjee, Sajjid-Wajid among several others paid their tribute to one of India’s greatest singers.

Ashaji and the producers spoke about their initiative Mission Mai at the event where they donated a generous amount towards the cause.

“All these years I have only received love and respect from the industry and truly they have all been my family,” says Asha Bhosle.

“With Mission Mai I am trying to do a little bit for them. The elderly people in the industry do not always get the financial support to see them through the last years of their lives. This is an effort to put things right,” she smiled.

Mission Mai is set for a release on November 23, 2012.

 

Is Sherlyn Hollywood bound?


Play girl: Sherlyn Chopra

From posting sexually explicit images to making bold statements, Sherlyn Chopra has done it all.

The starlet had recently admitted of having sex for money on the social-networking site. But Chopra has now slammed media for sensationalising her confessions and accusing her of doing it for publicity.

“Instantaneously, the media (the prejudicial kind) accused me of having done so for ‘publicity’. I then chose to demonstrate the modus operandi of effortlessly seeking “publicity”..through just 3 tweets containing highly sexual imagery...which got me to trend worldwide.....” she tweeted.

The Playboy model even claimed that she has recently signed a Hollywood film as its lead actress. “After having recently become a PB girl n after having recently signed a Hollywood film(as its leading lady), would a celebrity...... make such a confession on a public platform to seek ‘publicity’????????” she added. “Shame on your narrow-mindedness...” she added further. 

 

 

Going French

Singing star: Sophie Choudry




Sophie Choudry can sing in Hindi, English, and French. She lent her voice to a song in Preity Zinta’s Ishqk in Paris. The song is sung by Sunidhi Chauhan but the French portions have been sung and written by her as she is fluent in the language. She is close friends with Preity Zinta. She also sung a French song for Katrina Kaif for a film earlier but it did not make the cut.

 

 

Seventeen again

Dhanush

Sonam Kapoor


Sonam Kapoor and Dhanush play 17 year-olds for a sequence in Aanand L Rai’s Raanjhana and the shoot took place in Varanasi. There were no crowds because no one recognised them. They even roamed around Benaras in their teenage avatars and enjoyed the local food.

 

 

From gawky kid to a star


Experience counts: Priyanka Chopra

Priyanka Chopra, who went to high school for a few years in Boston, said she faced racial issues there as some fellow students called her "browny" and pointed a finger at her for being an Indian.

In an inspiring speech at a youth summit, the 30-year-old actress took a crowd of hundreds of students through her life's journey from being "gawky kid" to a Bollywood star.

"I was living in Bareily, from there I went straight to Boston and joined school there. I didn't know how to fit in.

Also, I faced some racial issues. Some girls called me 'browny' and I was typecast, pointed a finger at for being Indian," Priyanka said.

The bullying ensued into a fight and Priyanka was suspended from school for three days.

But the actress said going to school in America was a huge lesson in life as it taught her to be more confident.

Delivering a speech on perfection, Priyanka said she is not perfect and it's okay to be flawed as "long as you are being yourself.

"My life was an epitome of imperfection. I'm not perfect like Aishwarya Rai, beautiful, stunning. I was a gawky kid, only thing I knew was to work hard and learn. I didn't know how to act or win a beauty pageant. My career has been instinctive, but every situation taught me something." The former Miss World also said that life is all about taking chances and it's not worth living if there are no risks involved.

"Today I have the courage to do a commercial, mainstream film like Barfi!, when half of India doesn't even know what autism is. But I have the courage to take that chance." Barfi!, where Priyanka is playing an autistic girl, is set to release on September 14, a day after her debut international single In My City is set to be unveiled.

"I am nervous about both Barfi! and my single coming together. I don't know which one will people like. It's a chance I am taking and a new journey I am embarking on. I have worked with the world's biggest music label, Interscope, for this album. The single is also going to be the theme song for National Football League (NFL)," she said.

The song In My City, featuring Black Eyed Peas rapper Will.i.am, is Priyanka's tribute to all the cities she grew up in. — PTI

 

In comic vein

Funny bone: Ranbir Kapoor


Ranbir Kapoor does not spare anyone. Ranbir and Priyanka along with Ileana shot for the finale for Indian Idol. He did not announce the winner of the season as he did not want to break any hearts.

He said Kareena would announce the winner because she is used to breaking hearts! Priyanka laughed the loudest at this! We wonder why!

Salman, Prabhudeva together again


wanted team: Prabhudeva and Salman Khan

Prabhudeva will direct Salman Khan again after Wanted. The movie will roll next year and right now the subject and heroine are being finalised. Ramesh Taurani is producing it and has blocked the dates of the actor and the director.

 

Raaz disclosed…

Esha Gupta has denied shooting nude scenes for Raaz 3. There is a scene with implied nudity in the movie and she has said she was wearing tiny clothes. She has also done a couple of intimate scenes with Emraan Hashmi. All these denials come in the wake of her relationship with Armaan Gujral and her father getting angry with her for being so bold on screen. She is serious about her beau and wants to marry him.

Emraan backs delayed release

Emraan Hashmi has completed a film he began long ago called Raftaar. Late Shamim Desai was making it. His wife Priyanka has completed it.

Hashmi saw the movie and said that it does not look outdated. He will also promote it even though it is a delayed release.





chatter box
Karan badnaam hua, Munni tere liye…


The queen of hearts: Malaika Arora Khan

Recently Big Star Young Entertainment award in Mumbai witnessed Karan Grover’s unique fondness over sizzling Bollywood item queen Malaika Arora Khan. The young talented Karan came to meet Malaika in the award function in a pink bathrobe. Karan was seen in his interesting attire to express his liking towards the modern Anarkali.

Malaika was amazed and pleasantly surprised at his style with a difference. Both the actors met in Big Star Young Entertainment award which is dedicated to the talent of the younger generation. Everyone around, the visitors and the onlookers could not believe their eyes seeing this eventful meeting. The best part was Munni was not badnaam by this. In fact, she appreciated his gesture of greeting her. Well done Karan!! Now you are badnaam for Munni!!

 

Arjun goes snooping

In this week’s episode of Arjun, a dead body is found in a 7 series BMW in a hotel car parking. The car turns out to be an old and prosperous industrialist’s car who's a guest at the hotel. Both the industrialist and his driver deny knowing the victim. Local cops come and figure that the dead man is a car thief.

He must have gotten in the car but died of suffocation, failing to get out in time. An open and shut case, apparently. However, as Arjun deduces and proves that the thief died in abnormal conditions; it leads to a shocking discovery. 

 

Comeback time
Raqesh Vashist who was earlier seen in Maryada is back with a brand new show Honge Juda Naa Hum starring Aamna Sharif. Here he talks about the role, working with Aamna and love

With focus of the show and publicity on Aamna, don’t you feel insecure?


Marital bliss: Raqesh Vashist

No because the show is about her. She is returning to TV after a hiatus and that will be talked about. We are both part of the show, which is depicted in the promos.

What is the show about?

It is about love, losing in love and rediscovering it.

Your chemistry in Maryaada was wonderful. Are you worried about creating the same in this show?

Well, chemistry is created with scenes and story. And yes Riddhi and my chemistry was appreciated because we worked well together and also the scenes were powerful.

What do you think of Aamna as an actor?

She is a talented and hardworking girl and has a fan following since her first show.

Will we never see you in films again?

No. if something substantial comes up, I will surely take it up but for now TV occupies most of my time.

How is marriage faring for you?

It is wonderful. I wonder why didn’t I get married earlier. Riddhi my wife is wonderful and a huge support.

— HRM

 

Bearing the Brent!


in sync: Madhuri Dixit giving dance lessons on the sets of Jhalak Dikhla Jaa.

This week's episode of Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa promises to be a fun weekend watch.  According to Madhuri, international dancer Brent, along with Rashmi, set the stage on fire. Showing off the Hindi that he has learnt during his stay in India, he was seen spouting the famous don ko pakadna mushkil hi nahi, namumkin hai dialogue.

Always ready with one-liners, Manish corrected him saying on the sets of Jhalak, it is Isha ki taang ko pakadna mushkil hi nahi namumkin hai, leaving everyone in splits. Going ahead with the jokes, he also had poor Brent say the dreaded main tere bacche ki maa banane waali hun dialogue. Flattered by all the attention he was getting, Brent decided to ask the Indian diva to come and dance with him. While Madhuri blushed in her chair, Karan quipped "I'm sorry, I can't come to dance but the second best can go ahead', while looking at Madhuri. Always happy to oblige, she not only danced to a medley of her popular songs, but also taught Brent the Indian latka and jhatka, leaving both him and the audiences awe-struck.

 

Here comes Mahakali

A still from Mahadev
A still from Mahadev

In the Sunday’s episode of Mahadev on Life OK, Parvati and Shiv have moved to Kailash, but are faced with Rakhtbaaj, a demon whose single blood drop fallen on the earth produces more like him.

He convinces Parvati to attain the Mahakali roop. Upon attaining the rudra roop as Mahakali, she destroys Rakhtbaaj and slays everything in her way.






Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Be true to your ideals. Money issues could dictate what you need to concentrate on. A secret arrangement comes to light. Think before you speak today. The search for your soul mate gathers impetus. Tarot message: Allow a sick situation to blow over before starting new. Lucky colour: Olive. Magic number: 58

TAURUS: The simple things in life will bring you joy today. Do not take on too much but enjoy working through your chores one by one. There may be a personal issue, which will aggravate you. Tarot message: Trust your heart and intuition rather than confusing yourself. Lucky colour: Pale green. Magic number: 46

GEMINI: Relationships can be a minefield with all sorts of emotions surfacing to colour the actual situation. Step back and take several deep breaths before you speak. Hidden motives may lurk behind your emotions. Tarot message: You need to act for yourself and for no one else. Lucky colour: Ivory. Magic number: 36

CANCER: Satisfactory day for working mothers. A strong need to please might also make you vulnerable to the expectations of those close to you. Money matters can take a turn for the better. Tarot message: Business can be mixed with pleasure most satisfactorily. Lucky colour: Lavender. Magic number: 55

LEO: The outcome of lawsuit might be postponed due to matters out of your hands. You should not hesitate to shop around for a better deal. The employed will be given a special assignment with handsome incentives. Tarot message: Bury an old quarrel and be prepared to make a compromise. Lucky colour: Sea green. Magic number: 32

VIRGO: Double-check appointment time so that they are arranged. Plan a romantic evening. Not a day for property deals or legal proceedings. Watch what you eat. At workplace co-operation will result in more success. Tarot message: Do not be in the rush to spend extravagantly. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 45

LIBRA: A friend may need your support and you may need to put off your engagement to help them through a period of heartache. Romance may contain some rather disturbing circumstances. No pain no gain. Tarot message: Do not leave things up to chance. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 25

SCORPIO: Do not be concerned about your business deals. Should a friend ask you for a loan, be cautious. If you don’t feel you can trust him tell him the truth. Tarot message: Don’t get embroiled in ventures where returns are spread over a large period of time. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 30

SAGITTARIUS: Those around you could lose you with their abstract, whimsical or vague ideas about important issues. Today there are good opportunities for increasing your earnings. Keep your celebrations moderate. Tarot message: Bankers will give you the benefit of their advice. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 63

CAPRICORN: The card “The Night Princess” infuses a fairly active morning for the children. Contractors: you will gain new contracts. Expect excellent news concerning finance today. Do take care of your health. Tarot message: Handle your projects secretly and carefully. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 27

AQUARIUS: A neighbour has some gossip to divulge to you. It is not your business and is not likely to be to your advantage. Health will give no worry to you. Property matters are highlighted. Tarot message: Watch your action at work and polish your public relation skills. Lucky colour: Sandy brown. Magic number: 57

PISCES: This is a fortunate day for married lovers. A re-union or welcome home party will be fun and revealing. Or see a movie and you would really enjoy the evening. Go out and have fun. Tarot message: Don’t let opposition faze you when you decide to walk the path you wanted to. Lucky colour: Lime green. Magic number: 31

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is September 9...

You may have to make sacrifices for your career. Financial matters will have to be handled judiciously. Limited comforts may restrict your capabilities. Partners will have to work towards maintaining peace and harmony. You'll behave differently, amazing colleagues with your determination and organisational skills. Today, you'll be strong and courageous and will take on responsibilities for a life together. Keep your thoughts to yourself. This will create an air of mystery that is most attractive. Someone who has developed a growing fascination for you won't be able to stay away. All this attention is flattering, but you're not sure whether you want to embark on a romance. There's no need to rush into things. If you're already in a relationship, write your amour a loving text message or an email. You express yourself beautifully when possessed by a powerful desire. You'll enjoy making contact with different people. What's more, being active will help stave off any hint of restlessness or boredom that might otherwise steal over you. If you're going shopping it will be fun to take someone with you for company or to arrange to meet them afterwards for a drink or a meal.

Number nine is the teacher, a tolerant, somewhat impractical, and sympathetic vibration. Ruled by Mars, you may be jack of all trades, humanitarian, sympathetic, helpful, emotional, tolerant, active and determined. If expressed negatively: financially careless, moody, bullying, overtly emotional, sullen and restless. If you don't have meaningful long-term goals to work toward now, create some; get your mentor in on the act. This will be a great year. Those born in the last decade will blame their irresponsible behavior on stress. You will decide to go out to a distant town to take up a short course on the subject of your specialisation. A piece of good news may launch a celebration but hold in on spending or any splashy expressions.

Mood: Cheerful but slightly overloaded at times. Preferred signs: Leo and Scorpio. Positive colours: Navy blue and Grey. Select days: Friday and Saturday. Favourable    numbers: 4, 14, 40, 44, 104

Akshay Kumar (September 9, 1967, Amritsar) born as Rajiv Hari Om Bhatia grew up in Chandni Chowk, Delhi. He went to Bangkok to study martial arts and he worked as a chef over there. His first movie was Deedar which was directed by Pramod Chakravarthy. He starred in film Khiladi and Sabse Bada Khiladi. He got success with the Khiladi series. Then in year 1996 he again did a khiladi series Khiladiyon Ka Khiladi, which was again a highest grossing film of the year. Chandni Chowk to China and Action Replay failed to create magic at the box office. Till 2015 Akshay will not look back owing to his Venus period and number nine will keep him at the top always.





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