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Mystery mastery
Imagine having to work in an unknown, confined space; whipping, pushing your creative muscles to the wall for something that you don’t know…moving in a direction that is not defined. The Last Act, Anurag Kashyap’s much-talked-about project for 12.12.2012, threw twelve such directors in a dark space, with neither a defined beginning nor an end. One of the independent film-makers Kabir Chowdhry from Chandigarh comes out from this space and talks about the making of his part. First glance
The Last Act is a project where twelve independent film-makers from twelve different cities worked on their section of this movie, which is a murder mystery. “It was a great experience, I haven’t explored this genre before but it was exciting. The parts of this movie have been stitched together. The theatrical release happens in all PVR theatres across the country,” says Kabir. “The movie is being promoted very well, which is a good thing for all filmmakers,” he adds. Little knowledge
Not one among the twelve film-makers had any idea on what exactly the whole movie is about. “After the selection, each one of us was asked to write two scripts. I was asked which one out of the two I wanted to work upon, so I took up the part that explores Le Corbusier’s architectural elements,” says Kabir, still sounding clueless about many things. This is the mystery part, well, not really! “Anurag wanted all the directors to pick elements from their respective cities,” he adds. As it goes, The Last Act is a movie where a mutilated body is found; it has twelve different elements on it, which are then sent back to the respective cities for investigation. “I had no idea about the beginning or the end; I had to just shoot my section for the film. It was challenging and frustrating at times because I would sometimes think what the other directors would be shooting,” he says. However, with constant communication with the project director, Kabir and other directors managed to be in line with things. Creative corner
An unrestrained, free-flowing space makes for any creative work. This doesn’t sound possible with the The Last Act. “Creativity is a concern, like I said it is a new genre that I explored for the first time. In the end, however, the way the whole movie has been put together and how it is being promoted is something encouraging,” says Kabir, whose last project Good Morning travelled to various film festivals. Food for thought
A project like The Last Act definitely makes the audiences talk about it, but does it get them to the theatres. Adds Kabir, “Why not? I think the audiences are sick of being spoon-fed, give them food for thought and they are ready to lap it up.” Kabir is working on the scripts of his next films. As far as his inspiration in psychological thrillers is concerned, it comes from travelling. “And a lot of personal experiences too. I partly live in fantasy, so this is one place from where I get ideas,” he winds up, not without mentioning how eager he was to meet the rest of the eleven film-makers. Mystery sustained till the end! jasmine@tribunemail.com
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Winter warmers
After months of bare necessities, here comes the time of plenty. And when we talk of that, the first thing that comes to mind is winter accessories. Although belts are the biggest trend in this section, scarves, bags, caps and jewels are not far behind. Belt up
It's official, belts are big this season. "When we say belts, they are everywhere this season. Right from sweaters to the trend of wearing it over a coat or even on a cape, it's the trend of slim belts that we will witness this winter," says Akhil Duggar, creative head, Madame. Believe it or not, even the classic sheath dress is not complete without a waist belt this winter and it's the bows, chains, coloured corsets and obis-inserted buckles, including the jewelled and beaded ones, which are in vogue. "Although it's the sophistication of the 40's and 50's that makes a re-appearance this year, it is with accentuated waists and that has been done with skinny or wide-statement belts," adds Akhil. Bag full
An alliance between different materials — refined leather, graphic drawings — slouchy hobos and backpacks are the trendsetters in bags this season. "Bags with printed interiors are quite big this season. The Paisley approaches, graphic elements and bold colours with contrasts are also a rage," says Sanjay, manager, Shoe Tree in Sector 17, Chandigarh. Straps too make a statement in bags and for this winter, it is either the rounded ones for a sporty look or square as well as geometrical retro-inspired ones. Meanwhile, totes fade into the defined shape of doctor bags and shades of warm and cool; inlays and chains interrupt simple lines to create a lively and eclectic collection. Neck-to-neck
The Paisley pattern, animal prints, floral mishmash and baroque insets are hard to resist in scarves this winter. Both in wool, silk and even pashmina silk, it's the knotted scarves, fringe, patterned knits and mufflers that are hot accessories for winter dressing. "Jewel tones are a rage and in scarves, three-dimensional, digital prints and a world of embroidery make for a perfect gear," says Seema Sharma from Impressions in Sector 19, Chandigarh. Just Jewels
Who said jewels are not for winter. Consider wearing some trinkets for a chic look. Ball beads, encrusted flowers, geometric patterns, oversized ear-rings, pendants, statement rings and texture gold are trends to look out for. Eye spy
The chill in the air demands care for the eyes too and this winter is all about cat-eye, clear-specs, flat-top, mod-shapes and tinted-lenses.
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Surreal note
Manpriya Singh
It’s the music for the soul. It’s the music for the senses. Nothing else, perhaps, nothing less describes Sufi music. The genre is inspired by the works of Sufi poets, with Bulleh Shah, Rumi, Amir Khusro, Khwaja Ghulam Farid being the notable ones. Sufi thoughts find expressions through various sub-genres (read qawwali, sufiyana kalam, ghazal and myriad folk forms of Rajasthan, Sindh and Punjab). What started off as purely devotional music in turn has listeners devoted to it. Hall of Fame
The Sufi Hall Of Fame undeniably begins with Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, whose voice is often described as ‘other worldly’. We are yet to figure out whether he describes the music genre or the music genre describes him. The legend remains the most famous Sufi singer in the world. His intense vocals, unfathomable energy brought not just qawwali but Sufi to the world stage. Perhaps, in the same breath, we can name Abida Parveen, the artiste of international acclaim. The Pakistani singer is one of the foremost exponents of Sufi music. Rabbi Shergill’s Bulla Ki Jana can practically define the genre for the uninitiated. Though Sufi arguably remains a domain of the Pakistani artists, the likes of Arif Lohar, Barkat Sidhu, Wadali Brothers, Shaukat Ali, Kailash Kher and Hans Raj Hans ensured that the genres continued to cut across the demographic and physiographic boundaries. Youngster’s take
Coke Studio during its initial years further strengthened the love for Sufi and established a connect with youngsters. Laughs Taran Gill, BSC student, “I’m not a Sufi but the music is soul-stirring and powerful. Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s Tere Bin Nahi Lagda and Wadali Brother’s Tu Mane Ya Na Mane, remain my favourite sufi songs.” He adds, “The best thing about this genre that it is uplifting and inspiring, all without the noisy beats and clutter of instruments playing in the background.” Among some of the recent hits Chambe Di Booti is as versatile as a wedding song, a party track and a get-together song. The lyrics are a great contributing factor to the success of the genre, with most of them conveying the message of love.” Shares Rupan Dhir, pharmacy student, Panjab University, “Off late as much as bhangra pop, the genre has made its presence felt in Bollywood. Khwaja Mere Khwaja had the whole nation tuning into it.” His personal favourites include Maula Mere Maula, Allah Ke Bande and Teri Deewani. He adds, “While Bollywood has helped it achieve a cult status, there’s always a danger of over exploitation of the genre.” manpriya@tribunemail.com
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Boot camp!
Come winter and just like caps and coats, boots are a must-have in the wardrobe. While fashionistas have already put the very high boots, combined colour boots, colour-blocking and furry boots as one of the hottest trends the season; a pair of black leather thigh-high boots is a necessity. And considering the cold days and freezing nights ahead, this is one fashion accessory that cannot to be ignored.
So, biding adieu to the old and welcoming the new, say goodbye to your booties and embrace the tall sleeker boot styles. Knee and high-top boots are a must this season and even though we've seen them in plenty, this year there is a whole lot more. It’s the bold and vibrant hues that will be featured in footwear. And right from leather to velvet, there are boots with buckles and metals for a chic style,” says Niranjan from Shoe Rack-8. While it’s the ankle-high military style boots that are a major fashion trend, even ankle boots worn over leg warmers, which were showcased in Victoria Beckham Fall 2012 collection, are in. Another rather unique trend in footwear this season is the use of mixed fabrics and textures. “Right from clothes to footwear the trend of mixed fabrics has really caught on and that holds good for shoes too. Fur and fall too go hand-in-hand, so grab shoes that have some furry details. And if you want your shoes to grab attention, then pick styles that feature bold details specifically on the heels,” says Vipin Pundir from Woodland Store at City centre, DT Mall, IT Park, Chandigarh. Metal is another thing to look out for, so boots
that feature metal-pointed tips on toes or heels is also a trend to look out for. Well, when talking of heels choose chunky ones to make a bold statement this season. Last but not the least, hunt for wild and exotic colours as well as fun prints and patterns or you can also mix and match different colours to create a whole new feel to your footwear collection.
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God’s own way
Divya Dutta To have Shabana Azmi sitting in front of you when you perform the play Tumhari Amrita, which she's been doing for very long, I was very nervous. But the show went off very well and received a standing ovation! I got a big hug from Shabana and it is a day I will cherish throughout my life. All my stress suddenly vanished and I was so relieved. The next two days I thought of treating myself, meeting friends, watching movies and sharing some lovely time with my family! I did all that – visited a spa, had an awesome time with friends and then decided to watch the movie Life of Pi with mom and Rahul. And when we reached the theatre, we happened to meet Irrfan Khan who was there to watch the movie along with his family. I had met him after a long time, so had loads to chat! Later, I grabbed some popcorns and a cold drink while sitting down to watch the movie. I so loved it! Richard Parker, the tiger has become the love of my life! So adorable! And Irrfan was as always brilliant! What left me astounded was the last part of the film where Irrfan talks about life and god’s unseen hand in it! Even if you think you are loaded with problems, god does send help in ways we can never comprehend and with that we move on in this journey called life! Surprises and miracles; things you have never seen before happen in your life in ways you would never imagine! So flow with life and learn to let go, believing that someone up there is going to handle it. I was crying when I got out of the show and so were a few others! We magnify our problems and always say why me? But if we look back, how beautifully god has gotten us out of situations we thought would totally sink us! He shows the way and we move on. After the show, I felt really light, forgot all my problems and just said a silent prayer – I leave everything to you Almighty, look over in it in a way you think best for me. A beautiful movie and a beautiful lesson learnt. Sometimes it is important to remind yourself of things you have forgotten…that’s the power of cinema! (Dutta is a Bollywood actor)
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Royal display
Under the Fashion Design programme the students were required to explore different crafts of different states of India every year and this year they explored traditional crafts, architecture, and culture of colorful and royal state of Rajasthan. The 45 students visited Jaipur, Ajmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur and Nathdwara recently and met various craftsmen there. The students had hands on experience of the rich culture of Rajasthan. — TNS
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Sing aloud
Their motto as a duo is simple--- “sonic enlightenment”, which is what Stereo Buddha literally means. Their debut album, Evaporate, is a melange of soft, heart-warming tunes, thumping beats and a mesmerizing vocal performance.
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On a serious note
Rajeev Khandelwal's taking it slow with movies because he is secure and patient. He will be next seen in Table No. 21, which also stars Paresh Rawal and is a thriller. His last release was Soundtrack in 2011. He talks about getting choosy and doing serious roles. Labels don’t matter
I am not really doing only serious roles. I’m just doing a different kind of cinema. I’m still waiting for a classical romance to be offered to me. Until that happens, I’m going to continue with movies that excite me. Role reversal
I don’t know what kind of roles I want but I do know what kind of roles I don’t want to do. I could be stupid in my choices but I don’t have a dream role either. If at all, my dream role has to be something that piques my interest and makes me sit up while reading the script. I stopped dreaming after Aamir because I figured that the best films are the ones from which you expect the least. On Paresh Rawal
He has been very kind to me. He was the first senior actor to applaud me for my performance in Aamir and that was a very big deal for me. Working with him has been nothing short of a wish come true. His enthusiasm and talent amazes and inspires me. Small screen stints
I don’t have any plans in place right now but if something interesting happens, I’ll surely go ahead. After all, I went back to Sach Ka Saamna right after my debut film. I owe my fame and success to the small town folks who still write to me saying that they’d love to see me in TV shows. Gap year
Whatever good I’ve done in my career, I don’t want to wipe that off with some bad decisions taken in panic. Besides, I have plenty of time and I’m not insecure. I’m patient enough to stay away from the limelight. I’m not overly ambitious either.
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Kangna is Cavalli's new muse!
Kangna Ranaut was thrilled to bits on being specially invited to the Roberto Cavalli store launch and bash in New Delhi recently. She cancelled her prior engagements to make it to this one.
A source says, "Kangna Ranaut is happy that her eclectic sense of style and fashion is being noticed and appreciated by international fashion giants. She is passionate about fashion and spends most of her money on all things fashionable. Sonam Kapoor walked down the ramp for the designer at a fashion show in Paris and now Kangna is giving her competition because she also plays with fashion and takes chances. She might even walk the ramp for the designer sometime in the future which will open even more doors for her. It is commendable that a formerly skinny girl from the Himalayan hills is grabbing the attention of international fashion icons by making a mark." A special outfit was designed for the actress by Roberto Cavalli and Kangna wore it with aplomb. Neha Dhupia, Sonam Kapoor and Raveena Tandon were among the celebrities who attended the bash and the store launch in New Delhi.
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Labour was worse than expected: Megan Fox
Hollywood beauty Megan Fox says going into labour with her first child Noah in September was worse than she ever expected it to be.
The Friends With Kids star, who gave birth to her son with her husband Brian Austin Green in September, said she was unprepared for how painful it would be, reported a website. "I was screaming for an epidural when Brian was driving me to the hospital because my water broke on its own and I was immediately - it was level orange alert pain. It can't be anything because it hurts so bad. It was so intense," she said. Despite the pain, the 26-year-old actress still wanted to look her best during the labour. "I had wet hair so I was trying to blow dry my hair before I went to the hospital because I didn't want to go to the hospital with wet hair," she added. —PTI
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Vidya Balan used to charge Rs 1.5 crore for a movie and now she charges Rs 5 crore and upwards and the producers are willing to pay her that much because of hits like Kahaani and The Dirty Picture, where she was the real hero of the movie. She is also a National Award winner now.
Comedian turned actor Vir Das is working hard to get into shape for a new movie in which he has to sport eight-pack abs. He has hired Shahid Kapoor's trainer Abbas Ali and is on a strict diet and rigorous training regime that will last four months.
Kissing goodbye
Imran Khan is not fond of on-screen kissing. He may have kissed Anushka Sharma in Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola and Poorna Jagannathan in Delhi Belly but the married actor finds it quite awkward.
Did Shahid get a nose-job?
Going under the knife for better looks is a popular trend in the world of glamour. Not only are the Bollywood beauties going under the knife for correction and betterment but now-a-days male actors are also opting for cosmetic surgery. The latest buzz is that actor Shahid Kapoor has recently gone under the knife for sharpening his nose and that is the reason why he has been keeping away from shutterbugs since the past couple of months. He wanted a more chiseled nose for his next movie Phata Poster Nikla Hero and so he opted for rhinoplasty and is maintaining a safe distance from media. Shahid is not the only actor to have gone under the knife. Shahid will be next seen in Rajkumar Santoshi’s Phata Poster Nikla Hero, opposite Illeana D’Cruz!
Narmmadda Ahuja is a pretty girl. There have been talks of her making her debut for a very long time now. She even lost weight for the same reason. She turned down a few movies because they got delayed. We have heard that she has turned down thirty movies and is not doing anything at the moment. When she signs a movie, it will be announced to the world.
Not a copy cat
Shah Rukh Khan has decided not to make his epic film around Mahabharata. He dropped his plans because he read that Rajkumar Santoshi also wants to make a similar film. He also feels that costume dramas take a lot of time and he will now focus on Chennai Express and Farah Khan's movie.
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Pankaj Kapur says no to TV
Veteran Pankaj Kapur, who is busy promoting his upcoming film Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola, is not too enthusiastic about returning to television. “Around nine years back, I decided to stay away from active television for its face was changing and I was not comfortable with this new grammar then. Also I found that given the long hours involved, the working pace was very hectic and strenuous,” he says. “What is really disappointing is that our output on the idiot box gets lost in twenty minutes. Hence I find doing films more satisfying. At the end of the day, irrespective of whether your film does well or not, it will be seen by people through different forms of media,” he adds. "Having said that, let me be honest to say that if things get bad and I need money for survival, I might have to embrace the current scenario as well,” he adds further. Over the years, Kapur made a big name for himself on the small screen with his portrayal of the carrot munching detective Karamchand, then the Hindi speaking teacher in Zaban Sambhal Ke and last but not the least, the poor common man in the long running SAB TV show, Office Office.
Loving the attention
Reality check
After her eviction from the Bigg Boss's house, Mink Brar doesn’t want to hold back any feelings for her co-contestants. Mink, who's known for her frank and forthright stance in professional as well as personal life, says that Imam is the most irritating character in the reality show and she always felt like slapping him. She also admits that Rajiv Paul is another one who she would like to slap. Ouch!
Karan Goddwani, who has acted in shows Jugni Chali Jalandhar and Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon, can’t stop praising Mohit Raina’s portrayal of Mahadev in Life OK’s Devon Ke Dev Mahadev. Karan loves watching the show and praised the entire team for making the show a big hit.
Disha Parmar, who plays Pankhuri in Pyaar Ka Dard Hai Meetha Meetha Pyaara Pyaara, loves to go shopping and uses it as a means to de-stress herself after a day's hardwork. She usually likes to pick things that appeal to her. She also admits that she isn’t a party person and would rather stay home. |
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Astro turf
ARIES:A hazardous day; keep your mind on the job throughout. Do not be tempted to day-dream about what lies ahead. Be tactful in your criticism though emotions will be easily aroused. Tarot message: Health of elderly member at home will need care.
Lucky colour: Peach. TAURUS: Old acquaintances are likely to pop-up. No need to make any important move today. In the office, more efforts will be expected from you without the possibility of higher income. Keep the law-breakers at bay. Tarot message: Feel good about yourself.
Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 28 GEMINI: A call or a visit from a relative you have not seen for ages brings an opportunity to remember the past and catch up on more recent family happenings.
Tarot message: You may encounter some difficulties regarding finances. Lucky colour: Pink.
Magic number: 30 CANCER: This is a fantastic time to contact and visit people. Complete errands, socialize and catch up on outstanding paper-work and correspondence. There will be a turning point in a personal relationship. Tarot message: Open up new doors in a more lucrative direction. Lucky colour: Yellow.
Magic number: 31 LEO: The card “King of Wands” reveals best moments to relax and socialise with friends as well as loved ones. Be sure to grasp any job opportunity. Beware of electronic equipment.
Tarot message: Avoid gossip session at the workplace. Lucky colour: Fuchsia.
Magic number: 64 VIRGO: Discussions and chit-chat with those in close proximity increase, but you will instinctively know when to talk and when to put your head down to work.
Tarot message: Stabilise your financial situation through investments in property.
Lucky colour: Burgundy. Magic number: 42
LIBRA: Catching up on jobs you have been putting-off for a while seems a wise idea. It is time for some meditation and yoga. You will shine in surroundings that are unfamiliar to you. Romance is unexciting. Tarot message: Over-optimism could lead to mistakes.
Lucky colour: Beige. Magic number: 59 SCORPIO: Do not miss the opportunity to complete unfinished business that seems to be weighing on your mind and spirit. You will be amazed how much lighter you will feel when you have shed those concerns. Tarot message: Do not overspend just to impress others. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 60 SAGITTARIUS: Communicate boldly with a creative expression. Patronage from powerful individuals can validate your efforts. Share problems with your loved ones. Get on with minor repair jobs around the home.
Tarot message: Leave things open-ended for best results. Lucky colour: Deep-red.
Magic number: 40 CAPRICORN: Be positive in your approach. You will be better able to cope with jobs that require team efforts. Be wary of situations where it is easy to make mistakes in haste. You will inevitably repent later. Tarot message: You will get the help you need if you ask for it.
Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 57 AQUARIUS: Wherever you go and whatever you do, the focus of everyone’s attention is likely to be firmly on you. Check your car before you set out today. Relatives will be difficult to get along with. Focus on personal affairs. Tarot message: Everything will get sorted out in time. Lucky colour: Forest-green. Magic number: 52 PISCES: Make your boss aware of all the hardwork that you have been putting in. Accepting accolades is a healthy experience that promotes self-confidence and raises self-esteem; enjoy being noticed. Tarot message: Be creative to retain grip over your business. Lucky colour: Pink.
Magic number: 63
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The year ahead
If your birthday is December 12...
Tonight, to celebrate your birthday, turn off the television and go for an evening stroll. If your mate, best friend or partner is struggling, offer your strength. Change is in the wind, so lend courage to those in need. If you can, meet your partner for lunch and enjoy each other’s company. Avoid a fight by being honest. If you don’t feel like socialising, just say so - it’s better to be upfront about it. You may be in the mood for fun, so don’t rule out evening activities. Take care of the things that are important to you and then try to come to a happy compromise. If you plan to relax and have fun, you’re practically guaranteed bliss. There’ll be plenty of time to get back to business, so indulge in some pleasure. Do whatever renews your spirit and helps you express your creativity. You can be quite productive, but only if you aren’t constantly distracted by workplace shenanigans. You’ll be given a new responsibility and will complete it successfully. This will lead to praise. Even though you might not receive co-operation from your teachers and guides you have enough confidence to maintain a positive attitude towards your studies. In other words, your sustained efforts would achieve good results. Fill in the gaps in spending by borrowing, renting or getting creative.News of an important project, perhaps from overseas, will be encouraging. Investments made in new ventures are likely to bring good returns. Some of you are likely to travel abroad while others are to receive business proposals, which will result in monetary gains. You are not in the mood to wait for love, but will hunt for it no matter where you have to go. You definitely are not into staying home or doing the same old thing. Mood: Cheerful and willing to move fast on things Compatible signs: Scorpio, Pisces Lucky colours: Deep-pink, Military-green Lucky days: Wednesday and Friday. Lucky numbers: 2, 8, 11, 22, 28
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Cut-to-cut
Title run
The English Punch
First take
The 3rd semester Fashion Design students of Northern India Institute of Fashion & Technology (NIIFT), Mohali showcased a Rajasthan craft and art display at NIIFT, Mohali.
Wiin Music has launched it’s new album Evaporate by Stereo Buddha recently at Chandigarh Club. Stereo Buddha was founded in London in 2010. Their music can be described as electronic/lounge, with influences of down tempo, new-age and experimental.
The real hero
Working it out
In search of the big break
Rishabh Sinha, better known as Ayaan of Zee TV’s Qubool Hai, has been getting lot of female attention. The actor likes to hang out at his favourite places like Lokhandwala (Andheri), Bandstand and Carter Road (Bandra) and he still continues to do that despite getting stalked by his fans. He admits that he loves being followed by people.
Superstar Aamir Khan, who hosted the highly popular television series Satyamev Jayate says that the show helped him get closer to the reality of
life in India. He admits he is an emotional person and often cried while working on the show. He also says that
we must change our attitude towards women and learn to respect them. We agree with you,
Aamir!
As a matter of fact
Mohit’s got a fan
Confessions of a shopaholic
You share your birthday with actor Rajnikanth (December 12, 1950, Bangalore), who is known for his mannerisms and stylised delivery of dialogues. He has been bestowed with the Padma Bhushan. Rajnikanth has also worked as a screenwriter, film producer and playback singer. Before starting his career in the film industry, he used to practice stunts at the Rama Hanuman Temple at a hill near his house. Rajinikanth has acted in over 200 movies. Due to the malefic Saturn in his Horoscope, he may face respiratory infection and gastrointestinal problems, but they will get cured in time.