Hit formula 
From Salman Khan’s keffiyah in Ek Tha Tiger to the peacock motif key-chain of Akshay Kumar in Oh My God to the gun-and-bullet belt of Irrfan Khan in Paan Singh Tomar, fashion accessories have become an integral part of Bollywood movies
Ashima Batish

Anurag Kashyap with a gamcha during the promotion of GOW
Anurag Kashyap with a gamcha during the promotion of GOW

Salman Khan dons a keffiyah in Ek Tha Tiger
Salman Khan dons a keffiyah in Ek Tha Tiger
Salman’s aviators were a huge hit in Dabangg
Salman’s aviators were a huge hit in Dabangg

It doesn't belong to prêt; the couture segment is simply out of question. Still gamcha managed to cross borders, go international and was seen at Cannes aiding the promotion of Gangs of Wasseypur. This street-fashion of Orissa and Jharkhand was picked up as a promotional tool by the producers, who initially ordered 400 of these. However, some 14,000 were given away in the course of action.

Besides the popular paraphernalia of films, fashion too has, from time to time, created some stir. Or else, the chiffon sarees of Yash Chopra's romances, aviators of Salman Khan in Dabangg, his keffiyah in Ek Tha Tiger and the peacock motif key-chain as well as bracelet of Akshay Kumar in Oh My God wouldn't have been discussed by fashion enthusiasts!

Pernia Qureshi, fashion stylist of the film Ayesha, says that fashion in Bollywood has graduated to the next level. "It no more just about the costumes, accessories have become equally important; in fact, film-makers and stylists ensure that they judiciously pick up one accessory that becomes the signature of the film." In that case, colourful hattas and spiked mojris that Akshay Kumar is wearing in his upcoming film, Khiladi 786, complete his look. Accessories might not necessarily have fashion value; they are not meant for people to follow always. "It can be something as simple as a flower that Sonakshi Sinha is seen wearing in all the trailor shots of Dabangg 2. It is introduced because it adds to the character in the film," adds Pernia.

For the film, Oh My God, Raghavendra Rathore designed accessories only because the script of the film demanded them. "There have to be certain elements that can make it easy for people to relate to a character, especially when the one in question is God," says the fashion designer. Just as the key-chain in Oh My God was something that was carried and not worn; in the film Eklavya, Amitabh Bachchan uses a well-crafted knife to explain his character.

Raghavendra adds, "Accessories become all the more important in the stories of the soil. 'Gamcha' did work wonders for the publicity of the film GOW; and complemented the characters as well as the script of the film." Gamchas were also a part of the film, Paan Singh Tomar, but never caught attention as such, for the simple fact that the gun-and-bullet belt of Irrfan Khan defined his character better.

Accessories also help differentiate between the personalities of the characters; like is evident in the scarves that Katrina Kaif and Anushka Sharma are sporting in Jab Tak Hai Jaan. While Katrina is wearing plain, monochromatic ones, Anushka's have red zebras printed on them. Fashion stylist, Ashley Rebello, who has done styling of lead actors in Ek Tha Tiger and now Dabangg 2, says that at times an accessory that is casually picked up becomes a rage later. "In the case of Ek Tha Tiger, director Kabir Khan wanted keffiyah to be a part of Salman's complete look. We went around shopping, then decided which one will go with what costume, but we never thought that these would become a fashion statement post the film's release."

In Dabangg 2, he has stylised Sonakshi Sinha as the girl-next-door in a small town, who wears simple chiffon sarees, "But that was not enough to create the plain-Jane look, who at the same time is not boring. So, bangles, flowers and bindis were added." And Sonakshi definitely doesn't look boring, especially when she stands besides those aviators!

ashima@tribunemail.com

Storm in a tea cup
Artist RP Verma shares notes on his upcoming collection titled Tea Diplomacy…
Mona

RP Verma
stroke by stroke: RP Verma Photo: Manoj Mahajan

Bhiwani, often called Chhoti Kashi, hometown of painter RP Verma, was also his first training ground in art as well. Wall paintings that his mother made to lovely architecture that the temples and the havelis of the town offered impressed him much during his formative years.

He, of course, took proper training in the field that is his life now. Starting as a signboard painter, he has come far, with Chandigarh being his home now. Ready to exhibit his latest collection titled Tea Diplomacy at the Lalit Kala Akademi, New Delhi, in the coming month, Verma shares his take on what made him pick up 'tea' for a theme.

"Invitation for tea, which used to be a small gesture till not too long back, is today a means to an end," says Verma, who points out that today our social fabric has lost values like dedication, honesty, sensitivity, sincerity as well as seriousness. "The world is full of practical people who can use something as innocuous as tea to harness their ends," says Verma.

A series of 24 paintings, some acrylic on canvas, others oil paints on canvas have human figures in bright colours (a USP of Verma) with tea cups interspersed. A painting titled Green Tea has lovely play of shades of green and yellow; Once In A Blue Moon has vast stretches of blue and red. The series took Verma two years to compile and like every other theme he has worked on, he did study it through.

"It is speculated that tea came with the British to India; today it is more popular here than in Britain," says this painter, who is already into his next series on 'horses'. “Horses have been a passion with me. Along with human figures they sybolise power,” says Verma.

He is also researching on Alha and Udal, Rajasthani warriors, who he wants to paint next. Installations are also on his mind. But here again, he believes in thorough research. “I do not subscribe to creativity by chance. For any art work to be apealing a lot thinking is needed coupled with hardwork,” he says.

How does Chandigarh fare on the art scene? "Work is being done if not as much as in Delhi." What does he think about the younger generation? "Well, today's generation looks for instant results. But I feel for art to be pleasing and timeless, one needs to pour over the research, colours and techniques," he says.

mona@tribunemail.com

Sky is the limit
For young pilot Dalip Singh Grewal, nothing compares to the adrenaline rush he gets while flying police personnel around naxal-affected Chattisgarh area
Jasmine Singh

Dalip Singh Grewal
flying high: Dalip Singh Grewal

Not everyone can fall in line with the ways of the world. Some souls out there are spinning their own adventures, finding their own sky! Dalip Singh Grewal from Chandigarh can nicely be put in this slot. When friends his age (he is 23 by the way) are going wild in the party circuit, this young guy is dropping the police and the CRPF on the helicopter Ecureuil AS 350 in the Chattisgarh area. The youngest civil pilot to fly as a captain, Dalip was 21 when he first taking government officials around these places!

He laughs, "Mostly, Air Force people fly helicopters. So it was a big thing to achieve," adds Dalip. "At the age of 21, I started flying the six-seater helicopter AS 350 in Chhattisgarh's naxal area as pilot-in-command for the Chhattisgarh Police and CRPF. I used to fly in the naxal-affected jungle, where conditions are hostile. There is no air traffic control, no weather information and to top that, there were naxals waiting for us to make a mistake."

Dalip has done rescue operations (medical evacuation of police personnel when they used to get shot in ambush). "I did relief sorties too (placing police personnel from unsafe area to safe area and vice-versa)." He sounds like a soldier returning from war.

No one is talking about late night parties. "I hardly get time for them. Besides, this is my passion and it keeps me engaged." However, Dalip is not missing out on the fun his friends have. "I party whenever I can, but nothing compares to the real adventure and thrill that I get to face almost everyday," says the young captain who got his training in flying from California.

Dalip dreams of flying MI-172, a 26- seater helicopter soon. "My company Mesco Airlines had sent me to a training session in Russia. Now, only this dream is left," adds Dalip, who is working on a fiction book, which will be a compilation of the real-life incidents that he has experienced so far. "It will be a satire on how things are done in the naxal-infested areas and how ignorant the country is about the situation in that part of our country. It will be a funny narration to a serious story because sense of humour is a positive trait and who wants to read a serious book these days."

The book has a working title, 'Jagdalpur Diaries'. Flooded by Facebook requests? "You have to check that out," he passes a well-groomed smile!

jasmine@tribunemail.com

gyan zone
Romance is in the air

When stalwarts like Gulzar, AR Rahman and Yash Chopra join hands for a venture, you expect something that hasn't been tried in the industry before and that passes the bars of excellence. Unfortunately, the music of Jab Tak Hai Jaan fails to touch that level, except for the romantic number Saans. The track happens to be Shah Rukh Khan's favourite from the film. The lyrics, music and treatment are in the trademark Yash Chopra style. Music fans share what they like about the most-talked about song from the film.

It's magical

Saans is the song of the album for this film. It's not just sung well by Mohit Chauhan and Shreya Ghosal, it is also shot beautifully. The music by Rahman is the winning point of the song; it's extremely melodious unlike the so-called romantic numbers songs that are made these days. Yash Chopra has delivered a magical number once again as he did in Veer Zaara and Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi.

Surbhi Goyal, student, MCM DAV college.

All that glitters

I love the feel of the song. It's probably the most romantic number of this year, both in terms of music and also the way it has been shot. The chemistry between Shah Rukh Khan and Katrina Kaif is amazing. They could be approached by other directors as well. Mohit Chauhan never fails to deliver and this time too he has done full justice to the music by AR Rahman.

Niyati Sharma, private sector employee.

Can’t get enough

I just can't get enough of this song. The lyrics by Gulzar make so much of sense; they remind us of his old works. Rahman( only in this song) has been able to match up to his own standards. Mohit Chauhan and Shreya Ghosal have contributed their bit aptly in the song. I wish other songs too had the same magic that this one offers to the music lovers.

Sukhdeep Singh, student, PU.

— As told to Ashima Batish

Bull’s eye
Jasmine Singh

(L-R) Satish Chander and Jage Ram
(L-R) Satish Chander and Jage Ram

Satish Chander, a retired associate professor of English from a DAV College in Punjab, often pulls out a book lying close to his bedside every night. The autobiographies of people who changed the world, who extended a helping hand to the needy, inspire and stir his soul.

A quote from the The Diary Of Anne Frank that he has highlighted with a marker is something that he invariably has to go through once - no one has ever become poor by giving. Indeed, he remembers the day he was approached by Jage Ram, the man who is an inspiration for many around. "Jage Ram, an associate professor of political science at the Government College, Ambala Cantt, is visually impaired himself. The students love him and he can feel their warmth, but just he cannot see it," shares Satish Chander.

At present, both are related to an NGO National Federation for Blind that came into being in 1970. Jage Ram is the general secretary of the Haryana branch while Satish Chander is the chief operating officer. The two are working on modules, which will go a long way in giving the visually challenged confidence in life. Says Satish Chander, "We want to make the visually challenged self-reliant and self-sufficient. We don't want them to be dependent on others." The NGO has made a big difference by making a hostel for the visually challenged boys and are in the process of making one for the girls as well. "The idea is to give them a home, so that they live like a family and be self-dependent," adds Jage Ram, who doesn't feel his being visually challenged is any kind of impediment.

In the year 2010, the NGO took land on lease from the Government of Haryana where they set up the institute of education, training and rehabilitation for the blind in Ambala Cantt. A dinning hall, kitchen room, a computer lab, another room where they manufacture disposable crockery, another two music rooms, one room for vocal and another for instrumental; the place provides wholesome living to the kids staying here.

However, nothing comes without challenges. "In addition to financial constraints, we also face a problem when we have to teach these kids how to be part of mainstream life," adds Satish Chander, who believes that the heart stays in a better shape if you follow what he says. "We were surprised when the visually impaired teachers and lecturers arranged Rs 3 lakh for the institute."

Computer education is another thing that the institute believes in imparting. Adds Jage Ram, "Why should these kids feel any less than other kids of their age? We want to give them education and wholesome growth," adds Satish Chander. Not to miss the Braille library and reading room, the services of which the blind students of nearby schools can avail!

jasmine@tribunemail.com

the ‘in’ side
Lesser the better
Sukhmani

Modern contemporary bedrooms have a sleek, stylish and a calm atmosphere, while the traditional can be equally modern. They not only look great but can be made as functional and comfortable as you want them to be.

Bedroom colour — The style of a contemporary bedroom is simple and so at times a dark colour is needed to add some warmth and character to the space. The size of the bedroom determines how much colour is needed. If the room is small, choose a light neutral shade for three walls, and use the bolder darker color as an accent wall. If the room is larger, painting two adjoining walls a bright colour, opposite two walls of a lighter shade, gives a funky contemporary feel to the room. You can also play safe by painting the room in a neutral shade and add accessories of your favourite colour.

Furniture - Furniture for a modern bedroom needs to be sleek with clear straight lines and must have a minimum number of handles and knobs. It should not be overbearing and tall, in fact low level furniture made from dark wood is the basic characteristic of a modern decor. The beds are usually low slung and therefore platform beds are an ideal choice. Circular beds too are becoming a rage in contemporary bedrooms. The bedside tables are low and typically form an extension of the beds. Less is more in modern decor therefore keep just basic pieces of furniture like a chest of drawers, a sofa or chairs for reading space and maybe a footer ottoman to store sheets.

Flooring — Hardwood and tiled flooring are popular choices for contemporary rooms, but for the bedroom, you may want to opt for a softer material. If you keep the hardwood or tiled flooring, throw a solid coloured rug that can add a pop of colour and soft landing place for your feet. If you decide to go with a carpet, keep the pile low.

Lighting — Use lamps to add a beautiful glow to your room. Use futuristic designs in your chandeliers, ceiling lights, hanging pendants and wall scones. Avoid any style that comes with a shade: a lamp shade makes any lamp appear more traditional, and will not fit in with the style of the contemporary bedroom.

Window treatment — Get rid of all your valances and tie back curtains and replace them with bamboo blinds, solid colour roman shades or indoor shutters to maintain the modern look of your room.

Accessories — Accessories should be used sparingly in contemporary bedrooms due to their minimalist design. A bold piece of art or an abstract shape mirror is enough to embellish a wall. Limit your decorations to one per surface to avoid a cluttered look and to maintain the contemporary style.

(Sukhmani is a Chandigarh -based Interior and landscape designer)

Doc Talk
For a carefree life
Dr Vineeta Munjal

This is the time of the year when freshers at college are just about settling into the new life, and experiencing a whole new freedom. Girls in this age group sometimes tend to eat poorly to maintain a slender figure. Not eating a balanced diet complete with the essential fats plays havoc on one’s health. With multiple demands on their time from academics to co-curricular activities and an active social life, it is essential for youngsters to manage their hours well, and keep out stress and tension.  

As a college or university student, never accumulate what some doctors refer to as ‘sleep debt’. Having less than eight hours of sleep every night will hurt your physical health and mental faculties. Sleep debt will leave you exhausted, stressed, and unable to perform to the best of your ability. It is good to maintain a regular cycle, by sleeping and waking up at approximately the same time each day. Try not to sleep late in an effort to “catch up”. This creates insomnia the next day. Naps longer than 20 minutes also contribute to insomnia.

Avoid eating or drinking late at night. A midnight meal, coffee or tea will activate your body, instead of relaxing it and making it ready for sleep. Do not exercise close to bedtime.

One thing that all youngsters must learn to deal with effectively is the stress challenge. This can be caused by a combination of your academic responsibilities, social relationships, and your pursuit of excellence in sports and co-curricular activities. Do not let the feeling of "It's all on me!" pile up.

To deal with stress, it is best to work with a schedule. Keep a daily calendar with the times of all classes, activities, dates for giving assignments, and personal plans. A quick glance will help you feel more in control. Exercise regularly to work out your pent-up stress. Go for a walk, a bike ride, a run. Take a break with your friends, and plan activities of common interest. Always eat regular, healthy meals. Excess of fried foods, junk food, snacks, pizza, colas tea or coffee are bad. Choose more of vegetables, fruits and low-fat dairy products. Take care to wash your hands often, and don't push yourself to stick to the schedule if you are sick. Take a haemoglobin test to ensure that you are not anaemic.

(Dr Munjal is a Ludhiana-based gynaecologist, obstetrician and infertility specialist)

Complete show-stealer
Mona

Rishi Dada next to Jaguar XJ
Rishi Dada next to Jaguar XJ

Ground-breaking technology, super safety features, gorgeous interiors, seats that offer climate control as well as massage, double sunroof…. the most beautiful fast cars are in the city beautiful.

Jaguar Land Rover showroom registered its first presence in Chandigarh on Wednesday at The Taj. The premium luxury cars bring the very best of British automobiles. Rishi Dada, managing director, Dada Motors, says, "We are pleased to introduce the discerning North-Indian customers direct access to Jaguar Land Rovers accompanied by premium service network."

While Freelander 2, Discovery 4, Range Rover Sport, Jaguar XF vie for attention, the show-stealer is Jaguar XJ. Priced at around Rs 1.13 crore with its perfect aerodynamic shape, this beauty is a heady mix of refined luxury and capability. Detailing is where Jaguar wins over the competitors, offering a huge range of enhancements, options as well as stylistic choices. "Land Rovers, the versatile all-terrain vehicles are the real SUVs, not just the shell," points out Rishi, who finds Chandigarh one of the finest cities in the region with its infrastructure for these luxury drives. "Chandigarh has the advantage of offering uphill drives too,' he adds. Ready for a magnificent ride?

mona@tribunemail.com

star track
Tabu unplugged

Tabu rarely makes public appearances and does very few films a year. She talks about Life of Pi, her image and more.

On Life of Pi

I just went with Ang Lee's vision. It was an honour to be a part of a film directed by him. The story and the director here are bigger than the cast of the movie and they are the real heroes. I went with the bigger picture and I am now a part of the movie. The length of the role really does not matter here.

How did it feel, when Ang Lee said "Tabu is sublime"?

It was terrific to receive such a huge compliment from someone of his stature and experience. It was such an honour that he thought of me for his ambitious film, while sitting in another part of the world. I have been enamoured by his cinema. He is such a humble man.

Movies and beyond

I am choosy about my work. I cannot do all the films offered to me. I know my temperament and I work accordingly. I should have something to take back from the movies I do, whether it is money or the role or the movie itself. I did not consciously choose the image that I have today.

Marriage material

I am in a good space now and I am ready for a relationship. I know myself: my flaws and strengths. I will be able to handle a relationship now, so I would like to be in one.

Is she a recluse?

I feel unnerved when people think that I am a recluse. It feels nice that people want to see more of me and makes me feel that I must have done something right. When people meet me, they ask me to do more films instead of asking me to get married. I know that I will get married when the time is right.

I am grateful to have Casper: JLo

Jennifer Lopez Singer-actress Jennifer Lopez is grateful to have her boyfriend Casper Smart on her world tour because she needs his support.

The On The Floor hit maker says her dancer boyfriend, who has a central part in her Dance Again concerts, always has her best interests at heart, reported a website.

"You want people around you who genuinely care about you, not people that are just there for a pay cheque. Obviously he does care so... It's been great to have him there on the road," Lopez said.

Lopez, 43, is also joined by her mother Guadalupe, who helps keep her four-year-old twins Max and Emme up-to-date with their education. —PTI

 

The short cut

Miley Cyrus Three months after a bleached-blonde, asymmetrical punk haircut, singer-actress Miley Cyrus has now shaved off sides of her head to get an even shorter hairstyle. The former Hannah Montana star showed off the shorter look in New York City recently while heading into the Ambassador Theater, where her father Billy Ray Cyrus is performing in long-running Broadway smash Chicago.

The 19-year-old star's new hairdo is buzzed completely on the sides, with the top only slightly longer, reported a magazine.

Cyrus, who wore a fur top, ladylike black skirt, black tights and combat boots for the outing, hasn't yet explained the latest look.

The fiancée of Liam Hemsworth premiered her first drastic hair makeover —which recalled the look of Scandinavian songstress Robyn— back in August. "When you wake up, your hair is done. It's so easy. And the dirtier it is, the more I like it, so it's great. Showering has cut down, I'm saving water... This is more than a fashion statement; it's eco-friendly," said Cyrus. — PTI

Kareena set to sizzle 

Kareena Kapoor Kareena Kapoor's item number, Fevicol Se, will be released soon. She is wearing a black and colourful ghaghra-choli in it. The song has a Lucknowi flavour and is choreographed by Farah Khan. Manish Malhotra has done the costumes.

Laugh out loud

Hollywood star Brad Pitt has been reportedly put on a diet, by fiancée Angelina Jolie, after he gained some weight. The pencil-thin 37-year-old actress was shocked to discover that her fiancé had developed some flab and a gut. Apparently Pitt, picked up some bad eating habits during his 18-month stay in the UK, reported a publication online.

"Brad has been putting on a few extra pounds, he has got flab around his waist. Angie is trying to shame him into getting back in shape by laughing at his pot belly," a source said. —PTI

Back on the track

Shirish Kunder's career is back on the track after the fiasco of Joker. He is a good editor, so Karan Johar has roped him in to edit Ungli, directed by Rensil D'silva and starring Emraan Hashmi and Kangna Ranaut.

Better by the day

Shabana Azmi Shabana Azmi and Pankaj Kapur have rather wild and naughty roles to play in Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola and they both are above 55! Kapur's character is slightly inspired by Vijay Mallya. Anushka Sharma plays his daughter.

Like mother, like daughter

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan was recently in Singapore for some work commitments. She took Aaradhya along with her and then spent some time after work to show her around the city and they went to parks and zoos.

Out of the box

Aamir Khan has decided to promote Talaash only at night. That is because the film has been shot in various parts of Mumbai, mostly the underbelly and at night with shifts of 11 pm to 4 am. That should be interesting! Everyone is looking forward to Talaash.

 

For the record

Ayushmann Khurrana was recently in news for turning down Kunal Kohli's film because there was no A-list actress in it. He sets the record straight.

Clear cut

I cannot comment on who’s an A-lister and who’s not because I do not have the right to do that.  Nowadays, either a superstar or a super script works. Since I am not the former, I would rather go with the latter. Things have been blown out of proportion. I will continue to respect Kunal but at the same time, I don’t think it’s wrong to have aspirations. Somehow things did not work out but that is mainly due to the promotional work for my film with Rohan Sippy.

Gut feeling

I read the script thrice to understand it completely. Then I showed it to my friends, wife, seniors and family and took their opinion and perspective. I also follow my intuition.

In the pipeline

Rohan Sippy's film is nearly complete and we are recording songs for it now. I am very happy with it. I have also begun preparing for my movie with Shoojit Sircar, which is set in Agra and I play a tourist guide in it.

Not without my daughter

Tom Cruise Mission Impossible star Tom Cruise is reportedly heartbroken being away from his little daughter Suri following recent divorce from actress wife Katie Holmes.

The 50-year old Hollywood actor bursts into tears at night because he has not seen his six-year-old daughter for quite a long time, reported a publication. "He cries at night because he misses her so much. Both of them are taking the divorce really hard, and it's tough on Katie because she has to deal with Suri's public meltdowns," a source said.

"But Suri knows she's deeply loved by both her mommy and daddy. And she's bravely facing all the changes brought on by the divorce just like any other normal little girl would," the source added. — PTI 

chatter box
Chance Pe Dance

Avika Gor Avika Gor came to the rescue of Manish Raisinghani when he had to learn classical dance performance recently. Avika helped him correct his postures and get the tempo right.

End at last

Shashi Sumeet Mittal Productions show Kairi that stars Naman Shaw, Hema Singh, Preeti choudhary will end on December 14 but the cast and crew seem to be clueless about it. The show has recently introduced new characters to spice up the story. 

Who will be the host?

After the buzz that Akshay Kumar might not be hosting Khatron Ke Khiladi and Ajay Devgn might be stepping in as the host, now the news is that neither of the two will do it. Perhaps actor Vidyut Jamwal might be the one hosting the popular show.

Two to tango

Recently at Indian Television Academy Awards 2012, Karan Kundra and Karan Grover were seen together for the first time playing excellent hosts.

Their brilliant one- liners and spontaneous comic acts ensured that the audiences were entertained throughout.

The audience grooved to the blockbuster performances given by television popular stars like Hina Khan, Mouni Roy and Jay Bhanusali.

Marriage bells

Karan Mehra & Nisha Rawal Karan Mehra aka Naitik of Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai will get married to his fiancé Nisha Rawal in Noida on November 24. After dating for five years, the duo is looking forward to a traditional ceremony at the Noida Golf Course.

Sajid Khan

You share your birthday with Sajid Khan (November 23, 1971), who is the brother of Farah Khan. Khan's mother Menaka is the sister of Honey Irani and Daisy Irani, former child artistes. He started his career in direction with Darna Zaroori Hai and then made Heyy Babyy. The number five and Mercury make his personality charming, dynamic and magnetic. His Mercury's period spanning till 2020 will keep him on the screen.

The old & the new

Colors channel is looking forward to some new shows that will go on air next year. One of the new show is Sanskriti starring Jay Soni, a mythological Durga and second season of Na Bole Tum Na Maine Kuch Kaha.

As Bigg Boss Season 6 ends on January 7, Sanskriti and Durga will go on air in the 9 -10 pm slot while Na Bole might replace Kairi.

Not done!

Manish Naggdev Manish Naggdev, who played Mukund Dixit (who was to get married to Madhubala in the first place), might quit Madhubala — Ek Ishq Ek Junoon.

He feels that he has not been properly used in this show. "When I had first signed with Nautanki Telefilms, I was told that I would be one of the two leads opposite Madhubala. Unfortunately, what appeared on the screen was something completely different, the plot only revolved around Madhubala and RK (Vivian Dsena)," avers Manish.

On not being seen on the show anymore, he says, "Yes, my character wasn't working; hence I was eased out temporarily. I don't blame the channel; the numbers around my track never came in. All the shows revolve around TRPs. If Aamir Khan could not save Satyamev Jayate who am I," Manish questions.

Astro turf
p Khurrana

ARIES: Your card "The Princess of Cups" manages to maintain clarity and direction in complicated work situations. Make a list of tasks; or study assignments that are due. Love ties grow stronger. Children will be annoyed if they are restricted. Tarot message: Be articulate. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 46

TAURUS: The "Ace of Wands" strengthens and you will feel elated to see roses all the way. You can expect sorrow to evolve from the information you discover. Engaging conversation with neighbours create a confusion. Tarot message: Accomplish long-term tasks. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 26

GEMINI: 'The Knight of Pentacles' brings healing and attention to practical as well as earthly matters. You need some help today. Try to get away with your mate. Do not enter into any speculation. A short trip will be enjoyable. Tarot message: Take thing one at a time. Lucky colour: Forest-green. Magic number: 47

CANCER: "The Knight of Swords" instigates you to be active and clever. The biggest plans require attention to the smallest of details. Peacefully resolving recent hassles should be relatively easy. Tarot message: Listen carefully to words of wisdom. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 61

LEO: Your card "Five of Pentacles" suggests your friends could get on your nerves today. Mixing business with pleasure works well for you; be careful about getting into disagreements with seniors. Tarot message: You will receive a useful tip at the stock exchange. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 30

VIRGO: Your card "The Moon" reveals you gain balance, perspective and clarity in relationships. Further studies will help fine-tune your capabilities. You have more correspondence than usual to cope. Tarot message: Allow a sick situation blow over. Lucky colour: Burgundy. Magic number: 32

LIBRA: Do not put undue pressure on yourself to take on unwelcome tasks. Indulge yourself in personal pleasures. You will be able to spot and correct mistakes in important projects. Tarot message: Balance will lead you out of problematic situations. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 39

SCORPIO: "Three Wands" representing the Brahma, Vishnu Mahesh "Trinity" bring success in whatever you do today. You will be in an irritable mood today and loved ones will bear the brunt of your temper. Tarot message: Do not fall for rash promises. Lucky colour: Golden-yellow. Magic number: 35

SAGITTARIUS: A real buzz in the air upon waking evokes fresh possibilities. Yet, even the longest journeys start with the first steps. Make initial moves to get ball rolling in the right direction. Tarot message: Try a new off-beat style of handling things. Lucky colour: Rust. Magic number: 54

CAPRICORN: Your health and well-being are a priority. Set aside part of the weekly budget for whatever you need to ensure in top shape. Networking is more your style than team-playing. Tarot message: Try a different approach to situations. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 43

AQUARIUS: "The Priestess" manifests material and emotional abundance with inner strength, maturity and communication skills. This is a good time to compete for a position of power. A general feeling of dissatisfaction lingers throughout the day. Tarot message: Use your instinct. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 62

PISCES: The Card "Magician" reveals your imagination can run wild now and you want to act out a strange desire. Promotions will be yours if you have acted professionally in times of crisis. Tarot message: Learn from past experience. Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 42

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is November 23...

Your love life is going into overdrive Choose an outfit that accentuates your best features. Splash on a new fragrance; learn which colours look the best on you. Your friend will help you find the styles that make you look utterly irresistible.

If you're angry with a friend, you must force a confrontation. Be willing to vent out your feelings, but don't resort to nasty insults. If money is the source of your problem, you should rethink your attitude towards lending and borrowing. Nothing will tear a good relationship apart faster than money matters. It may be time to forgive a debt.

Just because you hold a respected position in the community doesn't mean your family will be impressed. In fact, your relatives will find the difference between your public and private lives so disenchanting that they will actually tease you about it. Try not to take their jokes too seriously. Having a good sense of humour about yourself will win over even your biggest detractors. Beneath your glamorous exterior rests a very down-to-earth person.

Due to the number 5 of 23, you are inclined towards working well with people. You are talented and versatile; very good at presenting ideas. Try some straight shooting with a key decision-maker or if that decision-maker is you, seek out the feedback that may not be pleasant now but is truly valuable in the longer run.

Discipline is needed to uphold the basics. Remind everyone of key reference points as well as goals and don't backslide with regard to tricky issues. This is an ideal time for updating your professional knowledge. Although you have found that the majority often solicits your interpretations, you might want to mind you own business. Keep the ball rolling once you feel you are 'making headway'; take 'one thing at a time'.

Sort out issues carefully before continuing, especially those dealing with children or finances. Businessman won't be able to do well. However, those who have lost their jobs and are unemployed will soon get a job opportunity. Complete rest is advised for those suffering from acute asthma or hypertension. Put yourself in a forgiving mood. Mood: Filled with strong insight. Compatible signs: Capricorn, Libra. Lucky colours: White, Red, Yellow.





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