Between the fluid lines
Experimentation thy name is art. Want proof….check out the works of budding artists at the Government College of Art, where students are busy creating works with innovative techniques
Manpriya Khurana

If the artists never moved beyond the landscapes and portraits, we’d still be stuck in the 18th and 19th century art. If the artists never experimented, we’d still be alien to modern and post modern art. It takes just three developments to make a trend. The baby steps in innovation could have taken off with a newer medium, a different subject, unusual treatment, because the art world’s forever evolving.

“I feel, when it comes to mediums, some of them are still not explored to their full potential. For instance, graphic printing on lino, wood cut and zinc. I wanted to explore and highlight such works,” shares Sonal A Singh, artist.

 

Taranpreet Kaur works on a sculpture with a co-student; and Rajni Chauhan shows her canvas
Art of the matter: Taranpreet Kaur works on a sculpture with a co-student; and Rajni Chauhan shows her canvas

A subject as ordinary as a woman could become exceptional, given the different perspective. Rajni Chauhan, MFA student, thought of experimenting with the method if not anything else. “Most of the works you’ll see are being done on a stretcher with a canvas. I’ve experimented with the board, it’s made with the material called new wood.” And she’s happily said goodbye to the 2x3 stretchers, for now. From applied arts to sculpture, from graphics to painting, there’s a lot happening at any given point of time. “I am using Punjabi folk art symbols and elements in my next series of sculpture. Things like pahwa (leg of a traditional cot), peedi (low rising pellet), manja (a cot made of jute rope) that are synonymous of a traditional set up. They have only been explored either in paintings or works like Phulkari but never in sculpture,” shares Taranpreet Kaur Minhas, second year student, MFA. “I am going to carve all these symbols in wood,” she points towards her works already in mould.

The syllabus may or may not be immediately reflective of reality, but the changing times make their presence felt in the works, nevertheless. “Whatever students do is reflective of the time and space. For instance the applied arts students fulfill the market needs. Our syllabus might not be very frequently updated but the content of students still reflects the right changes,” opines Pramod Arya, faculty, Government College of Art.

Rajya Lakshmi, fine arts student from Andhra Pradesh has combined the unusual techniques of print and embroidery. “I have a specialisation in graphics and wanted to attempt something unusual. I brought the print of a miniature inspired painting first down on a paper sheet and then on a cloth. After that I embroidered the whole thing,” she divulges. It took her 15 days to complete the painting, keeping wood cut as base, depicting nature but the result stood apart from among two dozen works 
exhibited together.

It’s not for nothing they have coined the term “Art technology”, have come up with “cyber art” and things like moving paintings. Like we said, art world’s forever happening. manpriya@tribunemail.com

Sweet trap
Festival means over-indulgence. But with the right kind of resolution, one can still avoid those loathsome calories
Jigyasa Kapoor Chimra

It’s that time of the year again when there’s sweetness even in the air. Though no diet is worth missing the festivities, but then it also does not give you the permit to overeat and get back those extra pounds that you managed get rid of. So, for people who are already counting calories, we list some simple ways to curb the sweet temptation.

“Festivity and diet are an odd combination but one has to control the diet to stay in shape,” says Madhu Arora, chief dietician and RD, GMCH-32.

She adds, “Though we have become smarter and opt for healthy options, but all things that come with a ‘health tag’ are not actually that healthy. First on my list are the diabetic mithais. Well, they are sugar-free but the base is maida and not fibre, so it’s a misconception that sugar-free sweets are a better option.

Second, we go for fruit juices and diet coke but we forget that they have some amount of empty calories. Nuts are good but not the fried ones. So, moderation is the key for a healthy blend of diet and festivity.”

Well, going empty stomach to manage those extra calories too is not a good idea as it only adds to your hunger pangs and results in extra intake. So, a home-cooked light meal is a better idea.

“The key to a great metabolism is enough water. Make it a point to carry a bottle when you visit people. Plan to drink at least 3 liters of water through the day. Opt for plain water instead of colas if possible. And you serve gurwala pani instead of water to your guests also,” says Nalini, a dietician from Panchkula. She adds, “Avoid bakery products and opt for hot sweetmeats as they are easy to digest. Go for galub jamun, moong dal ka halwa, gajar ka halwa etc. Avoid tea and coffee with sweets as it adds to gastric and heart burn problems. Green tea is a good option but not the flavoured ones. Cinnamon and tulsi are the best options, but remember not to have green tea immediately after sweets. And for people who cannot do without milk tea, put elachi and saunf in your tea to help the bloating of stomach.”

Lending some more tips Sandeep Singh Chadha, clinic director, Diet Mantra clinic in Sector 9, says, “Festivals do not mean that you stop eating altogether and cut down on all calories but one must combine food in such a way that it is wholesome and not fattening. Get enough of fiber for a better digestive system. Add metabolism boosting food like green tea, lemon grass, red chilies, pepper and cinnamon in your diet and balance your menu with enough salads, curd, non-fried food etc.”

Well, try and have sweets and desserts which are not fried. Also in the cold food opt for jellies or sorbets or fruit custards instead of ice-creams or rich truffles. Last but the most important remember tip is to eat on time and moderation should always be your key.

“Start and end your meal with a glass of warm water. This will surely help,” sums Sandeep.

Well, now that you know what to do, enjoy the festivals guilt-free.

Manish’s fitness mantra

For actor Manish Paul who’s made his presence and talent felt through shows like Jhalak Dikla Ja and India’s Got Talent, his mantra is to enjoy the festivities like a true blue Punjabi.

“Being a Punjabi I love my food and sweets, and festivals mean a little more of everything. But since what we consume has to be burnt, my mantra to stay fit is regular work-outs. I work out everyday for almost one-and-a-half-hour and suggest the same to people who want to stay fit. Eat everything but exercise, that’s the way to a healthy lifestyle.”

Master of all trades
Sabia Talwar

Early bird: Calib Logan

Calib Logan, a young producer has donned the hat of a director, editor, writer and an actor with his latest outing Try to Understand, a short feature film that was screened at Bal Bhawan—23, recently.

The most interesting thing about the thirty minute film is that it has only one dialogue.

Says Calib, who originally belongs to Amritsar but is currently settled in Chandigarh, “I wanted to bring forward the importance of expressions and feelings through this film. Also, I did not want to spend a single penny on the making of this film as it is an experiment.”

The cast of the film includes Monika Panwar, who is into theatre and has been a part of a lot of Punjabi videos. Then there’s Jashan Singh, who is also a good theatre artist and of course Calib himself.

We wonder what the film is about. “It is a simple love story but is put together very beautifully,” explains Calib. And how did he think of such a project? “I am working with Gaurav Sharma Gabbar for a production company The Theatre Army and have produced various Bollywood (Mausam, Love Express), Hollywood and Punjabi movies (Pinky Moge Wali). One fine day, I thought of making a film which does not involve money, which is a challenge in itself. I wrote this movie in 2010 and got a backing from Gaurav so I moved on with full confidence,” says Calib.

The duration of the film is thirty minutes but Calib says that even a short feature film is not easy to attempt because each and every aspect needs to be looked at very carefully.

“It was a crazy experience for me but I learned a lot about movie-making and it took me one and a half years to complete this film.” Calib’s next project is about an Indian comic superhero which will be an animated one. Way to go!

sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com

the ‘in’ side
Bare to the brick
Sukhmani
Brick bats: A brick wall lends a distinct character to the interiors
Brick bats: A brick wall lends a distinct character to the interiors

Exposed brick is an interior design element that has captured the fancy of many designers and architects for many years now. It is a trend that originated in the late 1900’s and has grown in popularity since then. If done properly, an exposed brick wall, when used as an accent wall, can add colour and texture to a room and transform the look dramatically. Do not expose the bricks of all the walls in aroom. Bare brick walls are traditionally found in living, dining and sleeping spaces.

Exposed brick works well with both traditional as well as a modern décor trends. It can be a little rustic for some and for others can provide a warm, earthy and authentic backdrop for both modern and classical interiors. Modern furniture and furnishings add an interesting contrast to the rough and raw look of the bricks.

With very simple furniture and accent furnishings you can enhance the look of brick walls. It makes the room look more natural and exotic. Another great aspect of brick is that it can be treated in various ways to give it a different appearance.

It can be whitewashed, painted, or just kept plain - all of which have a different look and character.

Before you start, however, it is important to determine whether the hidden bricks behind the plaster and paint are attractive enough to be exposed. Once you have determined that the bricks are suitable for an exposed brickwork finish, you will need to decide which wall you are going to expose. Make sure you identify any electric or water lines, or any other obstacles in the wall. It is best to let professionals handle this for you. Do not forget to use proper sealers. Exposed brick wall colour is also becoming diverse. There are many shades to choose from to beautify the walls of your home. The basic colour is red, ranging from dark to light. Pubs and restaurants often use aged red or brown bricks to achieve a cozy yet contemporary style. Less is definitely more with exposed brickwork.

However, while exposed brickwork can make a powerful architectural statement, it does come with its fair share of cons as well. Since the surface is far from being smooth, it tends to collect dust. This is definitely not the finish to choose if you do suffer from allergies.

(Sukhmani is an interior and landscape designer)

stress buster
Be positive, be happy
Renee Singh

Maintaining a positive outlook alters our whole experience of life. It is perhaps the best way of leading a stress free life. It would be nice to give these ideas a deeper look, restoring our faith in the role of positive attitude. The simplest of pleasures have a major stress relieving effect on our lives.

Mind over matter

This helps us to learn how attitudes and perspectives shape our stress levels. If we alter our habitual thought patterns in subtle ways, it can make a huge impact on our lives.

Simple joys of life

Simple pleasures are not only a quick fix, they are major stress relievers. A steady stream of pleasure can provide the emotional lift that can further help you achieve other things. The search for happiness is universal. Each individual must find out as to what gives him maximum pleasure.

It’s in the Psychology

Thanks to this field of study, now we have a more detailed understanding of what creates an enjoyable existence. There are many ways of relieving stress. According to famous researcher Christopher Peterson, subjective positive psychological state ranges from “raw feels” of bodily pleasures like perfumes to “higher pleasures” of the mind like Beethoven’s ninth symphony.

Pleasures are subjective

Pleasures are subjective to individuals. While one person may feel that a deep tissue massage is a great feeling, another person may view it as manhandling. The right pleasures paired with the right individuals can bring in a sense of delight and joy in our lives. The main drawback of pleasures could be a sense of habituation.

Habit free existence

Successive experiencing of the same pleasures gives less returns. This is like the law of ''diminishing marginal utility.'' The third bite of a cookie, isn't as delicious as the first and daily indulgence in the same cookie may bring less pleasure per cookie. Since there is a rapid rate of habituation that comes with pleasures, it is advisable to keep varying them.

  • Physical pleasures

Enjoy the bodily pleasures like a massage or a good game of tennis or golf.

  • Intellectual pleasures

Pleasures that appeal to the mind include accomplishment inducing pleasures. A beautiful home with scented candles, a nice garden, lifestyle, hobbies and interests freely pursued.

Change is a constant

Constant changes in pleasures are required so that there is a constant influx of non habitual pleasures. Habituation destroys the effect of pleasure so allow the pleasantness of an experience to survive by avoiding it. Here are some of the simple pleasures one must indulge in.

  • Savour a warm bath.
  • Dress beautifully and enjoy looking good.
  • Take a long relaxing walk.
  • Listen to good music.
  • De-clutter your environment.
  • Read a good book.
  • Use aromatherapy.
  • Watch a funny movie.
  • Indulge in a peaceful visual meditation.

When we are stressed, we have less patience, lesser energy and less optimism. A good mood is always an uplifting experience and gives immense joy and happiness. You need to indulge in pleasures to create a circle of happiness. Allow the simple pleasures of life to take over and make your life blissful and stress free.

(Singh is a Chandigarh based Psychotherapist)

The small big actor
Raj Mange
shining star: Raj Mange

Raj Mange, who is playing the role of Bal Hanuman in Jai Jai Bajrangbali is loving the appreciating he is getting for his work. He doesn't follow any particular method of acting, instead loves the spontaneity in his acting. The child star has been giving a miss to his school due to hectic shooting schedule since the last one and half years. He will soon join the school once the leap happens. What sets this actor apart is the innocence with which he plays his character. Raj Mange, a 6-year-old actor talks about his acting career.

What is the show all about?

The mythological show portrays Lord Hanuman's life and service to humanity. It shows how Lord Hanuman helped people get rid of demons like Ravana and other evils.

How did you bag the Bal Hanuman role?

One of my family friends asked my parents to send my photos to the maker Shiv Sagar. I got a call for audition and got selected.

How does it feel to perform Bal Hanuman?

I have already won the million hearts with my character. The show has become successful. Sagar Arts Production house is really excited about the success. For this role, I bagged the Best Child Actor award in the 2012 Indian Telly Awards.

How has been the viewers' feedback?

I am getting compliments from my fans from all over. When I go to malls people recognise me. They say, see the brightest child star of the small screen. I am really thankful to all of them.

Dharam Pal

STAR TRACK

Cleopatra comes to life
Heidi Klum
Halloween time: Heidi Klum

Supermodel Heidi Klum will turn out as the Egyptian queen Cleopatra this Halloween, donning a golden costume designed by Martin Izquierdo. The German beauty is excited to show the world her elegant Cleopatra costume, which will be used for NYC's Finale bash on October 31. In a photograph posted on her Twitter, Klum stretches her right hand, showing off a sparkling cloth, which looks like a wing. She also wears a gigantic Cleopatra headdress, a Cleopatra-black-bob-hairstyle wig, as well as a Swarovski crystal mask. The 39-year-old excitingly tweeted, "One week until Halloween! Here's a sneak peek at my crazy Cleopatra costume!" Three hours later, she wrote down on her Twitter again, "Cleopatra comes 2 life! Bill Corso & Martin Izquierdo are amazing! Wait until #heidiklumhalloween night 2 c the final! (sic)" Klum is famous for her eccentric Halloween costumes. In 2008, her whole body was painted blue and she attached fake hands, imitating Indian goddess Kali. In 2010, she posed with Seal, wearing a tall alien transformer costume and her face was colored magenta. Last year she pretended to be a skinless corpse. — PTI

The show must go on…

Celebrated filmmaker Yash Chopra's wife Pam Chopra has decided to go ahead with the plan of a star-studded, grand premiere of her husband's last film Jab Tak Hai Jaan days after his death.

The iconic director, who was known as Hindi cinema's 'king of romance' died last week following dengue infection and multiple organ failure.

"I want to give my husband an unforgettable farewell. Accordingly, we have decided to have a grand premiere for his ultimate film, Jab Tak Hai Jaan, exactly the way he wanted it. This is a fitting tribute to a man who would have had it no other way," Pamela said in statement.

Jab Tak Hai Jaan stars superstar Shahrukh Khan, Katrina Kaif and Anushka Sharma and will hit theatres this Diwali on November 13.

Consequently, a premiere is being planned a day before the release on November 12 and details of which are being worked out.

"I have asked my sons Aditya and Uday to go ahead with all the preparations. This premiere is our way of celebrating his illustrious life, rather than mourning it," Pamela added. — PTI

Out and about

New phase: Reese Witherspoon

Hollywood actress Reese Witherspoon is reportedly in talks to record a duet with Canadian singer Michael Buble.

The Oscar-winning actress, who gave birth to her third child last month, might collaborate on a track with Buble.

Witherspoon has displayed a skill in singing when starring in Walk the Line in which she won an Oscar as country singer June Carter.

She did training and voice lessons to prepare for the role, calling the experience "the most challenging, horrifying experience of [her] life." "I'd never sung professionally," she said in an interview. However, her performance was eventually well-received by movie critics including Roger Ebert. The 36-year-old actress has been seen out and about after giving birth to Tennessee James on September 27. She was shopping for new clothes in Beverly Hills on Wednesday with a female friend. She also took son Deacon to a soccer game last weekend at a Los Angeles soccer field near her Brentwood, California home. — PTI

Celebrating togetherness
Jennifer Lopez and Casper Smart
love birds: Jennifer Lopez and Casper Smart

Pop diva Jennifer Lopez and boyfriend Casper Smart have celebrated their one-year anniversary together.

The couple, who refer to each other as "bear", sent sweet messages on the micro-blogging site Twitter to mark a full year since they first began dating.

"Casper Samar!!! BEAR!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Today is OUR's!! Thank you for sharing your beautiful smile with me everyday! ?Special Day. LOVE! (sic)," Lopez tweeted.

Smart, 25, replied, "Happy 1 yr anniversary to the most Gorgeous, Kind, Sweet, Funny, Beautiful Lil Bear in the world.... Love Bear. (sic)" Lopez, 43, started dating backup dancer last year, four months after she and husband Marc Anthony called it quits after seven years of marriage. She has four-year-old twins Max and Emme with her former husband. — PTI
Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart
Good times: Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart

HAND IN GLOVE

Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart, who have been continents apart, promoting the final Twilight flick all week, reunited after their extensive tour. They were spotted leaving a Prince concert at The Sayers Club in Hollywood in the same car early Friday morning. Pattinson hid under his trademark baseball cap and Stewart shielded her face with her hand.

They have recently got back together after she was caught cheating with her Snow White and the Huntsman director Rupert Sanders. According to sources, Pattinson was heartbroken and while they have slowly reunited, he is still struggling to trust her again. — ANI

Diamond tour

R&B star Rihanna has reportedly bought diamond bracelets for VIPs at her next world tour.

"She's been offering to pay for the diamonds out of her own pocket. She wants everyone who goes to the gigs to be totally overwhelmed," a source said. — PTI

Chatter box
Stay happy, stay fit
Actress Ridheema Tiwari shares her eating habits and fitness mantra

My regime
Ridheema Tiwari
in shape: Ridheema Tiwari

Due to the hectic schedule, I rarely get time for a good work out session. A 30 minute brisk walk makes me feel good. I walk around my set area or dance in my make up room whenever I get time. When I get a day off, I love doing kickboxing and weights.

Love for food

I love food. I've a sweet tooth too. I never miss my breakfast and an ideal one for me is oats, sandwich, dosa, upma or eggs. Sometimes I love to have aloo parathas. For lunch, I like simple dal, vegetable, roti or rice with lots of salads. Sweets are a must. I indulge in sweets like kheer, shrikhand etc. I like snacking too. After lunch, green tea and biscuits are something I look forward to. Before dinner, I've bhel or a sandwich. For dinner, I usually have soups. However, if I make sure that there is a two hours gap between dinner and my sleep.

Take it easy

You are what you eat. So, don't take stress if you've gained weight. Don't miss on anything. Eat everything but in moderation. It's ok to snack once a week, but try and exercise every day. Also have green tea, get body massages or deep tissue therapies. Most importantly, keep smiling. Be positive and kind!

The real life heroes
Judges of the show India’s Got Talent with Yuvraj Singh
Judges of the show India’s Got Talent with Yuvraj Singh

There was another guest on the sets of India's Got Talent and it was none other than India's heart throb Yuvraj Singh. While he has shown India his talent on the cricket field with his bat, he was astounded to see IGT's contestant Nitesh Bharti's talent. A sand artist; Nitesh started drawing lord Ganesha by using particular alphabets or numbers, naming this art form Akshar Ganesh. Due to bad financial conditions in the family, he started working as a helper in coaching classes but the love of art drew him back to art.

Yuvraj's fight against cancer is a battle that India is proud to have witnessed, giving many the will to continue their fight for life as well. Nitesh Bharti touched the heartstrings of people by depicting Yuvraj's journey for survival through his sand paintings. What made the occasion even more special was the fact that Colors got Yuvraj's mother to be present on the sets too, which was a surprise for Yuvraj. Looking at his cancer pictures brought back painful memories for Yuvraj, who walked away in tears and came back to say, "Sorry yaar, I got emotional after seeing the pictures. Its difficult for a cancer patient to watch these images and there were times when I didn't like seeing myself in the mirror. God himself couldn't be there so in that hard time, she was with me."

Nitesh's act left the jury with damp eyes and to quote Farah, "Is manch par tissue box hona mandatory hai." She then added "Yuvi you looked handsome even then".

Yuvraj said, "I have never seen such talent. You made me cry. You showed us my entire life in a few minutes and all I can say is thank you." Karan, who was rather emotional because his father too suffered cancer said, "Yuvraj is an inspiration to millions in the world."

It’s showtime for Ashish
Ashish Kaul
here again: Ashish Kaul

In an upcoming episode of Sony TV's Parvarrish, a new family is set to enter in which Ashish Kaul plays a rich man opposite Kamya Punjabi. The actor talks about his professional and personal life.

How has been your journey so far?

Well, I have been in this industry since a long time. Of late, there has been a change in the trends of television. Coordinators now get you a role on TV, even if people in the industry know you. Director and producer Ajai Sinha, with whom I worked ten years ago called me recently and said that coordinators will get in touch with me. I remember that in those days, we used to shoot for eight to nine hours but now as Sinha told me that they have to follow the 12 hours shift schedule. This shows that the entire scenario in the television industry has undergone a big change.

What kind of changes does one get to see?

Not only in the working pattern, also how the shows are dealt with. Earlier, experienced actors were shown playing the lead roles, now fresh faces play the lead, and actors with experience are given supporting roles.

What's your take on TRPs?

In the times of Kahani, there were days when TRP of 20 and 21 was considered high. But today, a TRP of 6 and 7 is considered good. But there are some who say that TRPs are rigged. The same applies to the shows that bag less numbers. Here, I would like to say that come what may, the TRP factor should not affect acting; an actor should only focus on his acting talent and nothing else.

Why made you accept the role?

I decided to take up Parvarrish because I am very much like the reel character who gives ample liberties to his children, in terms of money and recreation. This is just to let them know the value of money. The other reason why I accepted Parvarrish is because I know Shweta Tiwari really well, I have worked with her earlier too. I know Vishal Singh too. Hence, I took up the role. I am sure my fans will love it as I am doing a daily show after three years.

How are you as a dad in real life?

My son Vivan is 12-year-old while my daughter Anika is eight. I and my wife Geetanjali are super cool parents. My son knows driving but I don't allow him to drive as he is legally not allowed to drive yet. He has even proposed a girl. I am fine with it as I have told my kids whatever they do, they should keep us informed. I am raising my kids to live without any fearls. They should not hide anything from me.

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Enjoy a quiet morning and get into any artistic projects you have around your home. A trip to the local market might inspire you to eat nutrient-rich foods. Let your imagination run free. Tarot message: Work could pose certain minor difficulties but don't worry. Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 33.

TAURUS: Today you will find people generally hard to pin down. Buying and selling is a salient feature. Unexpected visitors bringing news from a distance can be an interesting interlude. Tarot message: It is best to get a clear perspective before making important decisions. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 51

GEMINI: Your card signifies that enduring relationships can be formed with new people who live at a distance. Stick to your regular job. Benefits are assured by not taking the comments of others personally. Tarot message: Avoid conversation with shrewd colleagues. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 34.

CANCER: Concentrate on your career path and the business at hand. Be flexible in your thinking. Look at a problem from different angles to find solutions. Tarot message: Dare to accomplish those tasks which normally take up a lot of time. Lucky colour: Rainbow pastels. Magic number: 39

LEO: Today attention revolves around your home, property and family. Money rolls in after lunch. You will have to modify your plans. Your determination and thoroughness will ensure success. Tarot message: You will be happier if you retain the fruit of your hard work. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 27

VIRGO: Hobbies will give you much satisfaction. Discuss investment. Real estate matters may suffer. Put forward your ideas and enjoy the positive response. Tarot message: Remember it is the thought that counts and not the price tag. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 45

LIBRA: A good day for romance. Avoid gossiping because it can spoil your chance of success. A very friendly vibe makes it easy to approach subjects that are usually avoided. Tarot message: Try to be active in catching financial opportunities. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 47

SCORPIO: Do not be afraid to get things off your chest. Go along with the wishes of your family members. Frank discussion could clear the air. A more comfortable lifestyle will result from a pay raise. Tarot message: Do not leave things up to chance. Lucky colour: Deep Red. Magic number: 32

SAGITTARIUS: The day will become rather sensitive for marital relationship. Appointments and meetings could fill up your day, making it necessary to keep your phone turned off. Tarot message: Use your judgments and be firm in extracting a commitment. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 29

CAPRICORN: Emotions have to be controlled. Partners may not agree with your plans. No need to put your hard earned money at stake. Be realistic in any business, don't overlook the petty details and you will have success. Tarot message: Take care of interests of your work. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 42

AQUARIUS: Hopes fill your heart. A relaxed day for senior citizens. Patience and hard work pays. You can make new acquaintances and enjoy visiting new places. Tarot message: Try to relax in the middle of the week and put your cares to one side. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 61

PISCES: Avoid alcohol and drugs and you will avoid doing anything stupid. Home renovations may need more money than you had planned for. Speak to your partner about using joint finances. Tarot message: Be sure of involving yourself as much as possible in new project. Lucky colour: Burgundy. Magic number: 58

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is October 29...

Your birthday falls this year on the Sharad Poornima and Maharishi Vaalmiki Jayanti. This is an excellent year for catching up on paperwork and other official documents because you'll find it easy to concentrate on whatever needs to be done. You'll also manage to assess your current position in a very logical way, so you're able to deal with the facts of the matter even if you aren't exactly overjoyed about them.

Take a look around your home and try to view it as objectively as possible. Is it neat and tidy? And how about the fixtures and fittings? If you've been promising yourself for ages that you'll change the kitchen, revamp the garden or bathroom, you must decide to get cracking now. Everything goes really well. Workmates are helpful, superiors are encouraging, and you're pleased with what you manage to achieve. It's also a good year for applying for jobs that will allow you to make the best use of your talents. You will have the feeling that the entire world is at your feet. You will believe that you have made the achievement of the year. You will be congratulated for your efforts and you will be very proud of it. Business should be good very soon.

Be ready for some criticism also. If it doesn't feel constructive, breathe deep and explore with questions instead of getting angry. Your best skills are extra sharp now and you're particularly attuned to how others can best contribute, too. A good time for making new contacts. Luck will support those who follow their own initiative.

Do not be afraid of being pushy. You deserve recognition for the contributions that you have made. If you paid your dues, you have the right to get some privileges. Sometimes you have to make some tough choices in order to keep things the way you want them to be. A friendship might be at stake. The need to make a change of some kind may reveal itself strongly. Your stars say do not push an issue' connected with that change or if it involves Cancer, Aries, Libra, Scorpio or Sagittarius members. Fun gatherings and events that show family expansion are likely.

You will be getting ready for an important business trip. If you act confident, the deal is in your pocket. Competition will reduce. Just handle all legal matters on priority basis. Friends may try to be very helpful if you display anything from panic to excitement. They are anxious to help solve problems or celebrate victories. Mood: Eager and excited

Compatible signs: Sagittarius, Aries

Lucky colours: Burgundy, Maroon

Lucky days: Monday and Friday.

Lucky numbers: 22, 24, 45, 50, 56

Reema Sen (October29,1981, Kolkata) began her modelling career, appearing in a number of advertising campaigns. She tried to enter Bollywood but her first Hindi film Hum Ho Gaye Aap Ke flopped, and she decided to continue to work in Tamil cinema. She has a bright career in 2013.





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