Heavy metal
It lends strength to any fabric. It stands as a symbol of power…
whatever the reasons, metal is the latest craze on the ramp
Ashima Batish

A Chain Saree by Gaurav Gupta
shining bright: A Chain Saree by Gaurav Gupta

Certain fashions never climb down the ramp. They stay there, above the ground, on the models. Yet when they venture out of the designers' studios, cross the green-rooms to step on the ramp, they are received well. Not primarily for the 'wearable' factor, but the experiment they involve. Sometimes it's the cut that makes these creations different while at other times it's the dress material. A combination of both makes necessary to devise a term for this form of fashion that is neither couture nor prêt.

Manish Arora's first outing for French Fashion House, Paco Rabanne, back in 2011, is a case in point. Claiming it as futuristic, the designer used metal and plastic to make a collection that he said was an ode to Rabanne's similar line "12 unwearable dresses", which was made in 1966. But then there are fashion followers and there is one Lady Gaga, who wears metal on her sleeves, literally!

Metal is more than metallic; more than the shiny, bling fabrics, more than the colours golden and silver. Metal is metal in real terms like how Lady Gaga wore it as a corset dress in the video of her album, Paparazzi, or more recently, as a metal cage for head-gear. Back in India, use of metal in clothes is more subtle, limited to metallic colours, blue, green silver and golden. Designer Kanika Saluja, however, in the last season of Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week, showed us how its use on creations can go beyond the usual embellishments. "My label has always been about metal. It lends strength to the fabric. It's a symbol of power for alpha women. It also has a history to it when European women's corset dresses were strewn with metal," says Kanika, who has used metal as signature element of her designs. Metal beads, panels and chains are mostly the elements she uses.

A design by Raakesh Agarvwal
shining bright: A design by Raakesh Agarvwal

While Kanika's path-breaking collection went down well with the fashion critics, Raakesh Agarvwal's collection earlier this year got a mixed response. He used brass on trenches, dresses and skinny pants. The breast plates in brass were a new concept but how much of it was prêt posed a big question. Still Raakesh did manage to introduce metal to the Indian fashion industry where it actually replaced fabric.

What fashion designer Gaurav Gupta came up with a couple of years back is probably the most interesting innovation with metal. In place of satin, which was used to construct rest of the saree, he used metal chains for the pallu. The beautifully crafted piece was aptly named, Chain Saree. "Any experiment with fashion shouldn't make an outfit impractical to wear. The purpose should rather be to make it more attractive, more desirable for fashion followers," says Gaurav.

If not in totality, metal has also been used by designer Renu Tandon on the sleeves of the jackets she designed last year. She used brass on the collars and at the bottom of the skirts to give the outfit a certain structure. "Since brass is heavier than the fabric used, it automatically gives the outfit desired structure. The need for jewellery is also reduced, brass adds enough glamour to the complete look," says the designer.

The shift from metallic colours to metal, from Jean Paul Gaultier's golden conical bra and corset designs for Madonna in the 90's to her metal cage corsets earlier this year, from cuff links to Renu Tandon's cuffs hasn't been an easy one though. However, metal is gradually making room for itself along with silks, satins and chiffons. At least Kanika Saluja will make it happen just as Manish Arora did for Paco Rabanne!

Music connect

In between the Victorian age and the present experiments with metal, the upswing of punk music became directly proportional to the popularity of metal. It was used to break the monotony of uniform colour black with an extensive use of metal studs and beads, chains and safety pins.

ashima@tribunemail.com

Oh-boy-Aarya!
Aarya Babbar, who plays an important character in the upcoming movie Matru Ki Bijli Ka Mandola, shares some interesting facts in as candid a manner as can be…
Jasmine Singh

Aarya Babbar
big break: Aarya Babbar

This is not something new, something that we haven't heard of. This isn't earth-shattering either; celebrities face it all the time. More than their work, it is what happens behind the scenes that interests people more. So this justifies why every second day we get a spicy dope on actor Aarya Babbar's proposed marriage. The actor, shooting in Chandigarh and Punjab, can only shrug his shoulders, smile and state: "I am not married, the day I decide to I will send moti chur ke ladoo at everybody's place."

Well, the sound of wedding bells is least audible, but what we can hear as of now is the sound of O Boy Charlie, the song from his upcoming movie Matru Ki Bijli Ka Mandola. This, by the way, is making a lot of sound. What say Aarya?

Sing along

This song was re-shot after it was completely done once. After the re-shoot, I was surprised to see that I was in almost 70 per cent of the song while Imran Khan was seen only 30 per cent of the time. I couldn't believe this.

Director incredible

I am sure every actor or artist will say the same thing about Vishal Bhardwaj — he is indeed an incredible director. As I said, he simply felt that because Imran's character wasn't required much in the song Oh Boy Charlie, he wasn't shown much. This shows how Vishal Bhardwaj understands the characters, whether it is an actor or a comedian.

Knowing Imran

Imran Khan is a wonderful actor and human being. He could have easily intimidated anyone on the sets; instead he went out of the way to make everyone feel comfortable. He is a down-to-earth person. In fact, right from Anushka, Pankaj Kapoor to Shabana Azmi, all were very supportive.

Character calling

I am a character on the sets and I do everything my director wants me to. I play Badal in Matru Ki Bijli Ka Mandola, the second lead who has a love interest with Anushka Sharma. This is by far the best character I have played. So much so that I haven't signed any Bollywood film yet because I am not doing just about any film after working in this one. I would rather do an A-grade Punjabi film then work in some B-minus Bollywood film.

Following leads

If my director asks me to call a dog a cat, I will do that. In this film, however, there is no single scene that I have enacted the way it was written for me. I would discuss ten different versions of the scene with Vishal Bhardwaj and he would select one or two. I would enact them out and the best one would be picked.

Family man

I am proud to be Nadira and Raj Babbar's son. My father has always told me that once I am in front of the camera, I should forget everything else. It is from my mother that I get the techniques to improvise. I have loads of fun on the sets, once my scene is done, I am talkative and fun on the sets; once my scene is done I go back to room and sit quietly, engaging myself in my own space. .

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Brewing a storm
Newly opened Brew Master in the West End Mall, Ludhiana, is offering an array of choices for beer lovers as well as foodies
Poonam Bindra

The food industry is expanding at a rapid rate with the options increasing every passing day, which is making eating out an adventure for the foodies. The enterprising town of Ludhiana is known for many firsts and now we have a swanky eating joint with fresh beer brewing inside it!

Brew Master in the West End Mall has a micro-brewery as the backdrop while you enjoy the multi-cuisine food. "This concept combines a restaurant and beer factory. It is inspired by the West and this is our first destination in Punjab, as we know the zest for good living here," says chief manager Naveen Uniyal.

Interestingly, both the young and elderly flock to Brew Master to get the taste of freshly brewed beer. "The best is that we can make our own beer," echo visitors Vicky and Gautam while sipping on 'Amber' and 'Brunette' varieties, respectively. The best part is that visitors can experience the whole procedure right from brewing to fermentation to conditioning and get a feel of the authentic taste.

"I came for a simple glass of beer but was pleasantly surprised to sip a beer cocktail," says young entrepreneur Anmol Sareen while relishing the 'Raging bull' even as his friend ordered a 'Beer bomb'. Other varieties on the menu are 'Space monkey', 'Dark and stormy', Michelada Twist, 'Beer buster' et al.

As for the starters, the well-made Japanese dish 'Tappnkiey' with crisp, slightly spicy chicken, veggies and steamed fish with black bean sauce is quite popular.

The joint is also getting popular as the destination for kitty parties. As Naveen puts it, "We have realised that unless we please the ladies here, we can't succeed. Therefore, we offer an array of mocktails and some light beer for them." For the sweet ending, it is the well-decorated fried ice-cream and chocolate truffles, which complete the meal at the Brew Master.

The ‘in’ side
Shifting patterns
Check out interior design trends for 2013
Sukhmani

The year 2013 is round the corner and as a designer I see a slight shift in the colour trends. The beige and neutral trend will continue to go strong. Dominating colours next year will be sophisticated. Jewel tones like emerald, turquoise, amethyst, jade and ruby reds will top the list. You will also see a lot of aqua greens and wine colours.

Although I do see the return of the French country style next year, which generally means a mix between elegant and rustic, but the dominating style will remain contemporary with simple straight lines and a minimalistic approach to design.

Patterns are going to be back. You will see the return of the floral prints on a white background and a lot of animal prints and tribal patterns. The trend of using stripes and geometrical patterns will prevail. Don’t go all matching – mix and match your patterns and fabrics to create an interesting look. In 2013 an unusual pairing of colours and patterns will be encouraged.

Metallic accessories will dominate the scene. Bring out all the brass and copper accessories that you had stacked away earlier. Cut-glass will also be used to make a statement.

Wallpaper remains a favourite option where wall coverings are concerned and textures are now outdated.

Next year’s trendy furniture will boast of reclaimed wood. As for wood finishing, simple, raw wooden surfaces will be more of a trend. Think pale, clean wood with no varnish or paint. Stone effect surfaces and marble will continue as usual.

In the upcoming year, you’ll see a merging of farm and city in furniture and design. Look for vibrant, city-inspired prints to be combined with more antique-style furniture.


decor talk: Jewel tones, cut-glass accessories and reclaimed wood furniture are going to be a hit.

Nature has returned in force into our homes. Natural materials, wood, plants and indoor gardens bring the promise of ever more original designs into our living spaces. The year 2013 will be like a melting pot of materials and lines. Here, natural materials meet glass and steel.

The garden has become a great source of inspiration for designers who use accents of it to inject nature into the home.

Landscape designs say just as much about a home as its interior architectural counterparts. Green walls and vertical gardens dominate the landscaping trends. Theme based gardens will also see a comeback.

(Sukhmani is a Chandigarh-based interior designer)

GET PHYSICAL
Any time, any place
Vishal Thukral

Fitness freaks whenever advised to perform squats, hesitate to do so. The reason for this unwillingness is that squats have long been criticised for being destructive to the knees, but research shows when done properly, squats actually improve knee stability and strengthen connective tissue.

In other words this is one exercise that should be part of virtually everyone’s routine, as it is relatively easy to perform, requires no equipment and can be done just about anywhere.

What is squat

Squat is considered an important exercise for increasing the strength of the legs and buttocks, as well as developing core strength. At the same time, it would not be incorrect to say that squat is one of the best lower body exercise, which one can do. It targets all the muscles of the hips, glutes and thighs which requires no weights or equipment.

Benefits of squat

Squat helps to tone and build muscle. In true sense it is just perfect workout for lower body and experts call it a versatile exercise form. The only one thing while doing it is to keep it in mind that you are doing it correctly and at a regular routine. Besides increasing flexibility of the joints, it helps in toning of the legs too. Since butts are completely involved in squat exercise hence it gives perfect shape to the butts. Very few know that it also helps in preventing injuries and this is the main reason why top sporting teams add squat in their exercise regime.

When not to do

Benefits of squat exercise are numerous but those who do not know the right technique should refrain from it. The people suffering from lower back problems and suffering from any ankle, knee or calf injuries should always consult the expert before starting this.

How to do

Warm up
Stand with your feet just over shoulder width apart.
Keep your back in a neutral position, and keep your knees centered over your feet.
Slowly bend your knees, hips and ankles, lowering until you reach a 90-degree angle.
Return to starting position -- repeat 15-20 times, for 2-3 sets for beginners (do this two or three times a week).
Breathe in as you lower, breathe out as you return to starting position.

(Thukral is an aerobics trainer)

TROUBLE SHOOTER
Pressure point
Simmi Waraich

I like this boy and have been seeing him for three years. However, he is still studying while my parents want me to get married and settle down. I have a good job. I cannot live without my boyfriend but I cannot deal with the pressure. My parents will not wait for 3-4 years although I am just 25. I have tried breaking off with my boyfriend but I call him up again and again.

Neha, Chandigarh

It can be difficult to deal with pressure. Part of being an adult is taking decisions that other family members may find difficult and may not agree with. Weigh pros and cons. If you say that you cannot live without your boyfriend then that leaves no room for doubt. If you are clear about that then you can stick it through. That is the basic question you have to answer. Do you see yourself living with him long term? What are his strong points? Pressure is a part of life but if you are working and in a good job the pressure will be less. At times people decide not to marry at all and also face pressure from families. Do not get upset when family members talk to you. Stay calm, have a few prepared sentences which you repeat. This is called "the broken record". Empathise with your parents- "I know you are worried about me, I understand." If, however, you find you are not able to deal with the pressure, then tell your boyfriend in time and break off. You may need help to do that.

My daughter has been diagnosed with attention deficit disorder. I feel my wife also has similar problems as she is disorganised, lazy and she also does not mix up with people. I work till late and I feel very frustrated that my wife is unable to care for my daughter well. How can I help my daughter and how serious is ADD?

Vishal, Chandigarh

In some people ADD and ADHD (Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) can run in families. However, it will not help to blame your wife. You will need to help her in dealing with this. ADD varies--it may be mild or moderate or marked. Treatment depends on that. A proper assessment is also necessary--an IQ assessment along with assessment for learning disabilities if required. Therefore, do get a thorough assessment done. Try to work out a routine for your child with adequate time for play, activities such as drawing or activity books, reading etc. Avoid more than 40 minutes of television and computer. Identify 1-2 targets for each week and set up a reward system for those. Reinforce positive behaviour by praising often.

(Dr Waraich is a psychotherapist)

A global wardrobe
Manpriya Singh

For starters, she doesn’t do fusion, the highly confused and abused term used by most of the designers. Then there’s a conscious effort to not fall into the trap of bling.

Delhi-based designer Ripci Bhatia instead takes you on her own trip, traveling through Eiffel Tower, Palace of Versailles, Trevi, Italy... in a way that finally reflects in the wardrobe through scarves, dresses, skirts and cushions.

Trunk show, In Nome Dell’ Amore (in the name of love) by Amour Faith Hope packs in an ode to a couple of architectural masterpieces and decorative treasures of art and sculpture.

“I’m in love with Europe, because while you are there, you are surrounded by art. It’s an effort to recreate the magic of those places and make something that can be passed on,” she shares, a pass out of the JD Institute of Fashion and Design.

The love for travelling and a passion for books, poetry, architecture, classics, somewhere reflect in the brand and finally, the collection. “I’m not into fusion wear. Either it’s totally Indian or totally western. Moreover, I’m not into too much of embellishments either. In fact, I originally wanted to be a painter. And now since I’m into designing, it’s an endeavour to merge the two.”

There are dresses with Eiffel tower against the backdrop of sunset in different colours, vintage world maps, scarves with prints of a quill and a love letter by Beethoven to his beloved, cushions with cupid, Madonna et al.

“That’s how the collection is titled In the Name of Love; because it takes you a time of love beyond borders, inkpots quills, love letters, the power of prayers and sanctity of promises.”

There’s a hint of courtly love, cupids and angels, old-world chivalry in most of the printed fabrics in silk twill, pashmina from Kashmir and habuti. “All the fabrics that we deal in are pure only, whether it’s silk or wool or pashmina.” Coming up is an extension of the linen on similar lines.

manpriya@tribunemail.com

On at Vanity Box—9, till December21

Coming soon
For kids only

Chandigarh KidFest 2012, a two-day event to channelise creativity among school-going children is being organised at Kalagram from December 22.

It is a collective effort by Magic Makers & Society for Arts & Literature (SALT). The preliminary events commenced on December 15 and will culminate at the annual KidFest, where well-known talent will interface with the participants in a variety of activities related to story-telling, books, theatre, music and art.

Alongside the Friend of Books Literature display for kids, there will be workshops on clay modelling, tattoo making, face painting, greeting card making, pot decoration, doodle craft wall and a 3D poster workshop. Under the guidance of experts from the Pushpa Gujral Science City, there will be star gazing, short film screening and science related activities. Rock band competitions will be held in the evenings.

Professionals who will be participating in the fest include theatre person Gurcharan Singh Channi, actress, story teller Lovleen Misra, writer Chatura Rao, writer Ankit Chadha, story teller Fouzia, journalist Shivani Dhillon, classical musician Laili Dutta Hazarika and educator Latika Mangrulkar. — TNS

Joy to the world!

With the joyous festival of Christmas around the corner, tricity's upscale shopping and entertainment destination-DLF City Centre Mall in IT Park, Chandigarh, has been decked up like a bride for the mall's plush and up-market shopping-cum-entertainment fiesta - Merry Shopping Festival.

A beautiful X-mas tree has been put up and children will certainly have a ball with a Santa on a bike greeting them.

The festival has been planned to coincide with not just Christmas but also to celebrate New Years in style. On till January 2, the mall during the fiesta, will offer the best fashion brands under one roof. Shopping is rewarded by a huge freebie - A swanky brand new Harley Davidson motorbike, then it's very much worth spending those rupees to bring home fashion apparel and accessories. —TNS

STAR TRACK
Fan cycles to Mumbai to meet Aamir!
Kishor Kumar, a resident of Ranchi, goes all the way to meet his favourite actor and gets an audience too

Satyamev Jayate has made a huge impact across the nation and there is another incident to prove its positive effect when a fan cycled to Mumbai all the way from Ranchi to meet Aamir Khan and discuss national problems with him.

Kishor Kumar, a resident of Ranchi and a die-hard fan of Aamir Khan and Satyamev Jayate cycled all the way from his hometown to Mumbai just to meet his idol Aamir Khan.

Moreover, he spent two whole days and two sleepless nights at the Khar Police station (close to where Aamir Khan resides), refusing to leave the city till he got an audience with Aamir.

A police officer informed Aamir's wife Kiran Rao eventually. Kishore was accompanied to Aamir's apartment the next morning. Inspired by Satyamev Jayate, he brought to him all the problems faced by people across the country. Aamir spent nearly an hour listening to him and to convince him to cycle back to Ranchi.

Well, here is one actor who has fans across wide strata of society and who makes time to meet his fans and listen to their concerns.

Aamir Khan with a fan
Real talk: Aamir Khan with a fan

Short & sweet

In an award function in suburban Mumbai last week Shah Rukh Khan made a special effort to meet Priyanka Chopra in full media glare at the event before he left for a wedding reception. She was seated and he was in a rush so he had to go down on his knees to talk to her. How sweet! They are doing Happy New Year together.

Mallika’s minting moolah

Mallika Sherawat has made America her home and she will dance at a private New Year's Eve bash in Los Angeles to her hit Hindi songs. She is being paid a whopping amount of Rs 1.5 crore for the short act and is happy to be paid such big money even in the US! In 2013, she will be back in India to shoot for the movie based on Bhanwari Devi.

Sherlyn Chopra Sherlyn turns Santa

Indian Playboy cover girl Sherlyn Chopra played Santa for street kids in association with an NGO named Ray of Hope. She dressed as Santa and played with the children and entertained them and sang Jingle Bells. Sherlyn said, “In the days to come, I plan to work alongside The Ray of Hope to provide better food, shelter, clothing and education to the kids they take care of.”

Kind act: Sherlyn Chopra

A peep into the advertisement world

The hot posters and promos of Inkaar are shot with class, as Arjun Rampal and Chitrangda Singh set the screen on fire in their first film together. Here is what the movie is all about.

Inkaar is a story based in the realm of the cut-throat competitive advertising world. It depicts sexual politics in office and how this affects the dynamics and deals made between agencies.

Inkaar is extensively shot in advertising agencies across Mumbai, especially in Leo Burnett and Grey Worldwide to showcase advertising offices as they are and to add a sense of realism to the movie.

Immediately after the trailer was launched both the agencies have reached out to say that they don’t want any branding or reference of their agencies in the film.

Chitrangda Singh and Arjun RampalSudhir Mishra was planning to give both agencies a thank you slate in the movie reel. The spokesperson of Inkaar says, “We have shot extensively in advertising agencies. However, the story is such that it can be set in any environment. We would speak to agencies as this is our way of saying thank you. We do not mean to offend or implicate the agencies in anyway.”

Sizzling chemistry: Chitrangda Singh and Arjun Rampal

Esha Gupta Left out

Esha Gupta had three movies this year: Jannat 2, Raaz 3 and Chakravyuh and two of them were big hits! A recently-held awards function did not even nominate her in the Best Newcomer category in spite of this and this has made her quite upset. She is outspoken and has made her displeasure known to everyone she knows! There have been as many as ten prominent female newcomers this year.

Miffed girl: Esha Gupta

Off and on, Mahie goes on

During the past few months Mahie Gill has been drinking herself silly. And the blame goes to Tigmanshu Dhulia who has turned her character from the Sahib Biwi Aur Gangster into a full-blown alcoholic in the sequel Sahib Biwi Aur Gangster Returns.

A core member of the film’s crew says, “When Tigmanshu made Sahib Biwi Aur Gangster he consciously avoided making Mahie a replica of Meena Kumari in the original film Sahib Biwi Aur Ghulam. But in the sequel he has modelled Mahie entirely on Meena Kumari. And that includes the character’s alcoholism.”

Mahie GillThere was only one major difference between Guru Dutt’s and Dhulia’s ‘Biwi’. While Meena Kumari apparently enjoyed the drinks when she did Sahib Biwi Aur Ghulam, Mahie recently has given up alcohol completely.

Apparently Mahie developed a drinking problem while shooting for the film. Mahie doesn’t deny her serious brush with alcoholism. “My character is constantly drunk. Tigmanshu and I decided we won’t fake it. So I ended up drinking at 8.30 in the morning. Not good for the health,” she says.

Ironically, Mahie had stopped drinking entirely before she had to return to strong beverage. “I had kicked the habit completely. Now because of the character I am playing, I’ve started drinking again.”
Biwi returns: Mahie Gill

Bipasha Basu Double celebrations

Bipasha Basu will perform at a New Year's Eve bash in Dubai this year and she will be paid twice the amount she was paid to dance in Mumbai last year. She will dance to her current hit songs! New Year Eve is a great time for actresses to mint money in a matter of minutes!

Rising graph: Bipasha Basu

Randeep Hooda Opportunity knocks

Randeep Hooda landed Imtiaz Ali's Highway because Ranbir Kapoor is too busy with other films right now to shoot with Imtiaz Ali. The director will wrap up Highway with Randeep and Alia in a matter of two months in 2013 to release it in June. It will be shot in Himachal Pradesh. Then Imtiaz will start shooting with Ranbir in September. In fact, Ranbir urged Imtiaz to make another film instead of waiting for him all along and Imtiaz agreed! All's well that ends well!

On Highway: Randeep Hooda

Megan’s ‘Twilight’ moments

Hollywood beauty Megan Fox, who recently gave birth to a baby boy with husband Brian Austin Green, says her morning sickness was so bad she worried she was pregnant with a vampire baby.

The This Is 40 star gave birth to her first child Noah in September and she was so sick during her pregnancy that she compared it to Kristen Stewart's ordeal in The Twilight Saga when she was pregnant with a half-vampire.

“It was so bad for me, actually, I was convinced that I was, like, maybe birthing a vampire baby like the one from Twilight. You know what happens to Bella, where she's in cold sweats all the time? “I felt like that was happening because I had no vitamins and nutrients and I was just nauseous," she said.Megan Fox

However, Megan, 26, recently said that becoming a mother has left her happier than she has ever been before.

“The whole thing has been overwhelming because I didn't know you could love something so much. — PTI

Good & bad: Megan Fox

Crisis of conscience

Actress Anne Hathaway battled a “crisis of conscience” while filming dock scenes for movie musical Les Miserables because the vegan star had to step on dead fish for the shoot.

The 30-year-old Hollywood beauty adopted a vegan diet after finishing work on this year's Batman blockbuster The Dark Knight Rises and had fake leather shoes specially made for her character Fantine to fit her new lifestyle.

Anne HathawayBut she had no idea director Tom Hooper would be using real, rotten fish to recreate the authentic feel of the desperate streets of 19th Century France as they made Les Miserables.

“For some reason, for the dock scenes, (Hooper) wanted us to have dead fish, for days, and days and days on end and of course this was the first role that I've done since going vegan. And I was having a real crisis of conscience,” she said. — PTI
In the dock: Anne Hathaway

chatter box
A heart of gold

Shilpa shetty The latest episode of UTV Stars' Live My Life 2 proves that Shilpa Shetty is a star with a big heart! We've heard of stars meeting their biggest fan, giving away presents to them but we haven't come across anyone who invited a fan to her house? Shilpa became the first one to do so. Not only did she invite Maahi, her fan to her house, she also ensured that she was well taken care of. She gave away presents to the fan and also posed with her for several photographs. After all, it's not every day that a fan gets invited to her favorite Star's house! Tune in to this heart-warming episode of Live My Life 2, featuring Shilpa Shetty and her biggest fan on December 23

the perfect host: Shilpa shetty

To Hrithik, with love

Shaleen Bhanot As a tribute to the Indian Film Industry on completing 100 years, Shaleen Bhanot for the show, Sau Saal Cinema Ke insisted that he wanted to perform on the songs by his idol, Hrithik Roshan. Shaleen stated that he has always been inspired by the superstar. When Shaleen watched the song Ek Pal ka Jeena for the first time, it was then that he realised that he has to start working on his looks and physique. Shaleen also shared that just like Hritik Roshan even he had a sixth finger but got it operated when he was very young, a decision that he regrets now! That's some idol worship Shaleen!

fan following: Shaleen BhanotA still from Yeh Rishta ...

B'day bumps

In this week on Yeh Rishta Kya Kahlata Hai, while Naksh's fifth birthday celebrations are shown, Naitik will throw a tantrum. He will demand that his birthday should be celebrated on a bigger scale but soon will realise his mistake.

A still from Yeh Rishta ...

Change of guard

Mrunal Jain Uttarran has been a long running show and it keeps throwing surprises at the audience. Initially actor Mrunal Jain joined Uttaran in a positive role but soon will turn negative.

He will want revenge from Iccha (Tina Dutta) who was responsible for his father's death. The show will get further interesting with Mrunal becoming a bad boy.
trouble maker: Mrunal Jain

Rise and shine

Gaurav Gera will play Tota to his Maina (Kavita Kaushik) on SAB TV's Tota Weds Maina. His claim to fame is the character of Nandu, a pivotal role he played in JassiGAURAV GERA Jaisi Koi Nahi, a leading telly soap. Gaurav Gera is back with a bang on television after a brief sabbatical with SAB TV's Tota Weds Maina. This show will see some of the biggest names from the television industry. The show revolves around Gaurav's small town life in U.P. and captures the rustic backdrop along with many local elements. Whats kept Gaurav away from the small screen all this while are the numerous films and television commercials. Tota Aur Maina is laden with dollops of humour with a love story at its core.
WATCH OUT: GAURAV GERA

Bipasha's got competition

Jism director Amit Saxena, who is busy shooting his next film Nasha with reality TV star Poonam Pandey, has praised her and believes that she is hotter than Bipasha Basu. But Pandey says that she doesn't like to be compared. "Honestly, I don't like to be compared. However, Amit is my director and he saying that is surely a compliment,” she said.

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: New business deals offered to you are worth considering. Artists get acclaim for their work and make good money. If married, plan a romantic evening with your partner. Tarot message: Don't allow others to interfere in your affairs. Lucky colour: Lotus-pink. Lucky number: 27

TAURUS: Business and work opportunities are plenty. Take one step at a time to climb up the ladder of success. You make an important effort to resolve family issues. Tarot message: Business problems should be solved amicably. Lucky colour: Black. Lucky number: 59

GEMINI: You could have many public rivals. A loving interaction with your beloved is indicated. Focus on routine work and maintain a low profile. Overseas contracts are lucrative. Tarot message: Pursue your goals without a thought for disapproval. Lucky colour: Green. Lucky number: 26

CANCER: You are on your own, as friends and close relatives refuse to come to your aid. Despite your best efforts and willingness to compromise, domestic life may remain disturbed. Tarot message: Your determination to succeed will pay dividends. Lucky colour: Blue. Lucky number: 48

LEO: Participation in a charitable activity is likely today. The share market yields good profits after the recent uncertain phase. You struggle to keep your temper in check today. Tarot message: Don't allow others to interfere in business or personal affairs. Lucky colour: Peach. Lucky number: 45

VIRGO: Finances need urgent sorting out today and you should save wisely for a secure future. A happy event celebrated at home is enjoyable. Short work related journeys are tiring bringing in not more than mixed results. Tarot message: Lack of caution can cause losses. Lucky colour: White. Lucky number: 25

LIBRA: Thoughts of giving up midway are high. So weigh the pros and cons wisely. Be careful if you are signing any papers as there could be more to the situation than meets the eye. Tarot message: Seek out solid; well-researched information before making any moves. Lucky colour: Red. Lucky number: 50

SCORPIO: New career opportunities are due because of your past efforts. Spending quality time with your partner will be a priority for you. Travel plans for business or pleasure are possible. Tarot message: Be active and grab financial opportunities. Lucky colour: Grey. Lucky number: 58

SAGITTARIUS: Meditation takes you deeper within. Work will be hectic and you will have to juggle your schedule in order to meet all your commitments. Don't take financial decisions in haste. Tarot message: Leave things open-ended for best results. Lucky colour: Magenta. Lucky number: 51

CAPRICORN: There could be appreciation for your ideas from colleagues. If there are important meetings today, you need to be prepared as seniors will take note of your ability to handle last-minute changes. Tarot message: Don't read too much into ordinary situations. Lucky colour: Yellow. Lucky number: 34

AQUARIUS: A trip is on the cards. You are be unable to make up your mind about an important decision; spend some time mulling over your options and don't hesitate to discuss things with close associates. Tarot message: Feel free to change your mind. Lucky colour: Forest-green. Lucky number: 39

PISCES: You will be in a cheerful frame of mind. Going out of your way to help colleagues or loved ones will earn you goodwill and appreciation. Spending time with loved ones will be a priority. Tarot message: Concentrate on projects with reliable outcomes. Lucky colour: Pink. Lucky number: 57

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is November 20...

Health will remain fine despite a busy schedule. Property deals will materialise and bring fabulous gains. It is a perfect year to fix up something exciting and entertaining with friends. You show your love despite the hatred of your beloved.

Put your energy into self-improvement projects. Money gains will not be up to your expectations. You will have limited patience, but take care as harsh words might upset people around you. Use your discretion in love. Do not make any commitment unless you are sure of honouring it. A favourable Jupiter will bring you plenty of reasons to feel pleased.

Avoid self-indulgent behaviours, especially when involved in social activities. You probably wish you had more time to yourself now and may find discrepancies in your daily schedule. You've been extra perky lately; you can channelise that energy. Ideas for self-improvement projects could lead to commitments from a friend, neighbour or relative. Travel is likely due to domestic or business reasons.

You are under lots of pressure at the home front. Spending some time on your own can help relieve any stress that's been building up. Solitude can be bliss during times like these. Your mood is cheerful, cordial and inspiring for others. Try not to allow business or job-related concerns interfere with your family's happiness or peace of mind. Your love for fun is absolutely contagious. Bonding with friends is very important.

This is the perfect year for negotiation and discussions about contracts or agreements. Those who are interested to go abroad for further studies should try their luck. It may take some time, but your efforts will lead you to the desired goals. Students will do well in studies as well as sports.

Be economical in your spending. You'll start 2013 not in the pink of your health, but with proper diet and exercise regimen, things will improve. Invest in gold rather than shares.

Mood: Emotional but happy.

Compatible signs: Cancer, Leo.

Lucky colours: Pink, Orange.

Lucky days: Thursday and Saturday.

Lucky numbers: 5, 7, 13, 22, 50.

You share your birthday with Sohail Khan (December 20, 1970, Mumbai), who is the son of Sholay-fame scriptwriter Salim Khan. Sohail Khan started his career as a film producer and director, making his directorial debut with the 1997 action thriller Auzaar. Sohail appears in Comedy Circus regularly. According to the stars, Sohail will be more successful as writer and director than actor.





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