Cinematic curve
This jatt does not talk of badla. This jatt studies in a college, knows how to romance and tickle one's funny bone too. Punjabi film industry sure had an image makeover in every sense of the word
Jasmine Singh

The caravan started moving….It started from the lush green fields, took a detour through the old village, took a small lassi break, a quick bite of makki di roti and saag and then finally arrived at the university campus. It plans to stop here for sometime before it finds a new destination. Aboard this caravan are new and old faces of the Punjabi film industry, who plan to put up a great show on the campus. Well, they have already given many successful performances. The most talked about remains the record breaker Jatt & Juliet, directed by debutant director Anurag. The most sought-after Juliet, Neeru Bajwa, the handsome jatt, Diljit Dosanjh, the dangar managed to whip up a must watch romcom.

Romcom, ah! This is something new for Punjabi film industry which has always seen romance in crisis situations. Either an NRI love story or love that bloomed between family issues. So, Jatt & Juliet pulled the Punjabi and non-Punjabi audiences, and made Bollywood sit up and notice—what's going on here!

 
The production values of many movies like Mirza & Burrraah improved substantially. 

Jatt awakens

Jatt awakened again, and this time he tickled our funny bone no end. This jatt went on and on, and is still carrying on. Carry On Jatta, directed by Smeep Kang starring Gippy Grewal and Mahie Gill grew slowly on just about every Punjabi and non-Punjabi audiences again. In fact, if people are to be believed, it did much better business than the other jatt of Jatt & Juliet.

Campus calling

The jatt then decides to give us a breather. The caravan launched another theme -campus. Year 2012 saw Punjabi cinema exploiting the campus to the hilt. Whether it was Taur Mittran Di directed by Navnait Singh or the story of three friends Yaar Anmulle or bhangra groups fighting for the title in Burrraah, young blood and young romance were the new theme for cinema.

Director's cut

Some young and debutant directors opened their innings in Punjabi cinema with comedy films, which by the way is the most tried and tested theme here. Year 2012 saw a substantial increase in the number of Punjabi films. In fact, just about everyone in Punjab was busy either writing or directing films. So, we had a quite a few of them that touched and went—Pure Punjabi, Pata Ni Rab Kehdeyan Rangan Ch Raazi, Mirza (the movie did set new standards in technical part and was the most expensive film made in the year), Yaaran Naal Baharaan, Sirphire, Raula Pai Gaya, Ajj De Ranjhe, Pinky Mogey wali, Sadi Gali Aya Karo, Dil Tainu Karda Hai Pyar and not to miss Jaspal Bhatti's swansong Power Cut.

Potpourri

Films like Jatt & Juliet (top) and Carry On Jatta did a record breaking business in the year 2012

The number sure is a positive indicator in the growth of Punjabi cinema. The other indicator of course came from the producers of these films who generously poured their nickel in the well only to get double and triple of the amount in return. The budget in Punjabi films increased from lakhs to crores.

Another good thing happened to Punjabi cinema this year--some new and old faces from Bollywood jumped into the caravan. The films of 2012 saw a number of familiar faces from Bollywood and television industry. Rohit Khurana of Uttaran fame, Sangram Singh, Priyanshu Chatterjee of Tum Bin fame, bad man Prem Chopra, reality TV star Rannvijay showed up in 'handsome' portions in the films.

It was indeed a year of Punjabi cinema. Comedian Gurpreet Ghuggi, Rana Ranbir, BN Sharma and Jaswinder Bhalla were unstoppable. A new name was added to the list--Binnu Dhillon. The actor who went unnoticed for years, finally received applause in Carry On Jatta.

Talking of new names making an entry into the industry, an obvious mention of the pretty faces in the industry is a must--Japji Khera, Mandy Takhar, Neetu Singh and Jenny Ghotra. Laughing and singing, Punjabi film industry is shinning its way to glory.

Music is another field where it scored once again. Peppy dancing numbers and great picturisation were the icing on the cake.

The caravan must go on….

jasmine@tribunemail.com

 

Punjab’s pride

A filmmaker who placed Punjabi cinema on the global map definitely needs a special mention, Gurvinder Singh who made his debut with Anhe Ghode Da Daan won much critical acclaim at the International festivals.

Anhe Ghode Da Daan won the special jury award and the $50,000 Black Pearl trophy at the 5th Abu Dhabi film festival. It also won critical acclaim at each festival it was screened. It made its presence felt at Venice Film Festival, 55th British Film Institute, London Film Festival. He also won the Golden Peacock award at the International Film Festival Of India, Goa.

Have the time of your life…
Mona

Pole dancers, popular singers, fire blowers, fire works as well as quiet time in the lap of nature is what Chandigarh and its vicinity offer to ring in Year 2013 in style...here's where you can head to…

Three-D fun @ Bella Vista

Groove to the tunes of DJ Sheena as Blockbuster Bollywood Party goes underway at Hotel Bella Vista. A unique 3D audio-video experience, unlimited food and beverages, play area for kids and prizes to be won here.

How much: Rs 8,000 for couple, single male Rs 4,500, single female Rs 3,500.

Get groovy @ Hotel Shivalikview

The party offers performances by a western dance troupe, interactive games leading on to a dance party till the live countdown. If you don't want it loud, check out Bazm Restaurant (meals Rs 600 per person only). Yangtse will serve a-la carte Chinese cuisine and at Cloud 9 an imaginative and wickedly tempting dinner menu is served a la carte.

How much: Rs 3,500 per couple and Rs 2,000 per person accompanying the couple. It includes five-course buffet, a cash bar (two drink tickets per person included).

Bliss @ Moksha Himalya SPA Resort

Live DJ, bonfire, gala dinner, foot/head massage, fun games are what Moksha, a natural heaven offers. Enjoy two nights, three days of blissful stay at one of the best SPA resorts in the country. You can choose for games or magic/puppet show for kids to at Timber Heights or Timber Trail as well.

How Much: Rs 34, 900 per couple plus Rs 15,000 for New Year supplement extra. Timber Trail Resorts Rs 10, 900 + 5,000 for couple. Timber Trail Heights 14100 +10000 for couple. Dinner at The Deck is for Rs 6000 only.

Celebrate @ Pride KC Hotel & SPA, Panchkula

Enjoy multi-cuisine gala dinner along with live band at the ball room or enjoy an evening of ghazal at Water Front Café.

How much: Rs 6,666 per couple at Ball room and Rs 4444 at the Café.

Gourmet delight@ The Great Kabab Factory

Dance to DJ Rising's tunes and savour the kebab flavours from the kitchen. Unlimited food and beverages along with some foot- tapping numbers for partylovers!

How much: Rs 2,000 per person and Rs 3,500 per couple.

Fun and frolic @ Hometel

Eat your way into 2013 with exclusive multi-cuisine delicacies, exotic belly dancing and live performance by J&M, The international Phillipino band @ Flavours.

How much: Rs 3,999 per couple at Flavours and Rs 6999 per couple at the ball room

Bolly theme @ Park Plaza

Rock the party Bollywood style with unlimited food and drinks as dance troupes entertain you at the Plaza banquet.

How much: Rs 8,000 per couple all inclusive

Rock the party @ JW Marriott

The Grand Ballroom will host the EKA Band. Entertainment, food and fun are full on at Saffron, Oregano or Café@JW.

If you want a private affair, you can opt for cabanas in the lawn where group bookings will be entertained.

How much: Packages start Rs 9,999 per couple and cabana's would be for Rs 50,000 (for eight) all inclusive.

Quiet retreat @ Yorks Health resort

If you want to get away from the humdrum of life, Yorks is offering one night, two day stay at deluxe cottages with food, fun and party.

How much: Rs 7,000 per couple

Sa re ga ma @ Mountview

Live band, in house DJ will rock the party at MountView with Dipesh Rahi, celebrated Sa-Re-Ga-Ma singer, presenting the most sensational Hindi and Punjabi numbers. An elaborate menu for dinner is especially planned for the night. Special arrangements are also made at Rustles (multi-cuisine restaurant), Magic Wok (Chinese specialty restaurant) and the Vintage Bar.

How much: Couple entry ticket is priced at Rs 7,000 and stags accompanying the couples are priced at Rs 4,000.

Fusion party @ The Blue Blazer

A British-Punjabi night is what Blue Blazer offers for the New Year Eve. Photo booth, fire works, pole dancers and fire-blowers turn up the party heat. Gala buffet dinner awaits ahead.

How much: Rs. 10,000 per couple with unlimited food and beverages for early birds, Rs 12,000 otherwise.

Folk tunes @ Heritage Haveli, Ropar

Troupes from Rajasthan will perform folk dances besides fire dance at Heritage Haveli, Ropar. Sukshinder Shinda would be the star performer.

How much: Rs 3000 per couple.

Actors we loved in 2012
Year 2012 was a fun year in Bollywood and we had an interesting bunch of movies! Some we hated, some we loved and there were sparkling performances. We bring some of our favourite male performances of 2012


Big chance: Ayushmann Khurrana 

Ayushmann Khurrana in Vicky Donor

c was a popular face on television before he made a super mark in Vicky Donor. Women of all ages fell for his boyish charm and his lovable portrayal of Vicky Arora who chances upon big fortune through sperm donation. The movie was wildly entertaining and Ayushmann carried it on his shoulders. He acted, danced, sang and even assisted on the movie.


Nawazzuddin Siddique in Gangs of Wasseypur 2

Screen presence: Nawazzuddin Siddique 



Nawazzuddin knows looks like an ordinary, almost inconsequential guy. But you have to see him own the screen as the revenge-driven pot-addict Faizal Khan Gangs of Wasseypur 2! His is the superlative performance. You really wonder how he did it!

Aamir Khan in Talaash

Though the movie got mixed reviews, Aamir's layered and heart-rending act as a guilt-ridden cop was unanimously praised! Kudos to him for taking up such a difficult role and pulling it off effortlessly. We were awestruck by this under-stated but mind-blowing performance.

Ranbir Kapoor in Barfi!

The movie was acclaimed but we got to admit it was a little boring and shamelessly lifted from other movies. But one thing we cannot argue about is Ranbir Kapoor's unique and mesmerising performance. He made Barfi so endearing and played him with immense grace. No one else would have pulled off this role.

Shah Rukh Khan in Jab Tak Hai Jaan

We were amazed at how good and fresh he looked in the movie. He was exceptionally good as the army man and even the young lover. While the script was flawed and boring in parts, SRK managed to win our hearts all over again with a heartfelt performance.

star track
I‘m sorry I’m a man: SRK

Speaking out: Shah Rukh Khan

"I am so sorry that I am a part of this society and culture", and "I am so sorry that I am a man", Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan said Saturday following the death of a 23-year-old trainee physiotherapist who was brutally gang-raped and tortured in the national capital.

n" We couldn't save you but what a big voice you have, you brave little girl. That voice is telling us that rape is not an aberration, not a mistake," Shah Rukh tweeted.

n" Rape embodies sexuality as our culture and society has defined it. I am so sorry that I am a part of this society and culture.

n" I am so sorry that I am a man. I promise I will fight with your voice. I will respect women so that I gain my daughter's respect," added the 47-year-old, father to two children - son Aryan, 15, and daughter Suhana, 12.

The victim, who was gang-raped by six men in a moving bus December 16, was flown to Singapore for treatment on Thursday and breathed her last early Saturday morning. — IANS

Wake up India, react B-town celebs

The death of the Delhi gang-rape victim in Singapore shocked Bollywood, with Shabana Azmi urging the country to "wake up" and combat violence against women.

The film fraternity took to Twitter to express its indignation over the gang-rape and her death after 13 days of struggle.

Amitabh Bachchan: 'Amanat', 'Damini' just a name now... her body has passed away, but her soul shall forever stir our hearts.

Shabana Azmi: And SHE PASSES AWAY in Singapore. RIP. Our impotence stares us in the face. May SHE become the wake-up call our country needs. We must soul search. Female foeticide; inequal access to nutrition, education, health; no decision making powers; dowry demands; rapes rampant. INDIA WAKE UP.

Shekhar Kapur: Her greatest betrayal is that we will forget. Political systems' greatest hope is we will forget. Our only redemption is if we do not forget.

Mahesh Bhatt: Shut all temples where you pretend to worship the female form. Cry India! Your hands are drenched with the blood of your own daughters.

Karan Johar: RIP to a brave girl who fought in a weak and paralysed country.. Shame on all of us.

Madhur Bhandarkar: RIP Damini, today is a dark day in our democracy. We should pledge not to let dust settle on this fight till the end.

— IANS

Vegetarian’s delight

Actor R Madhavan is receiving a prestigious award, but this time, it isn't related to his prolific and enduring film career. That's because Madhavan – who actively promotes vegetarianism as the best way to help stop animal suffering, cut down on pollution, fight climate change and improve your health – has been named Person of the Year by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India.

Madhavan is a longtime friend of PETA and has often volunteered his time to defend the rights of animals.

The star of such blockbusters as Rang De Basanti and 3 Idiots bolstered PETA's Kentucky Fried Cruelty campaign by sending a letter to the CEO of KFC's parent company, Yum! Brands, urging him to adopt PETA's recommendations to stop the worst abuses of chickens who are killed for KFC – including scalding birds to death. Also, his son recently donated the money that he received for his seventh birthday to further PETA's work. One of Madhavan's most significant contributions to PETA was his offer to narrate "Glass Walls", a hard-hitting video exposé of the meat industry, which was named for fellow vegetarian Paul McCartney's thought-provoking observation if "slaughterhouses had glass walls, everyone would be vegetarian".

"When you see what goes on inside slaughterhouses, I think you'll lose your appetite for animal flesh, too", says Madhavan in the video. "Animals feel pain, just as people do. They value their lives, just as we value ours." He concludes by saying, "I hope you'll also make the compassionate choice and go vegetarian".

Year 2013 and the glam girls…
The A list Bollywood actresses have sketched their line up for next year. Deepika Padukone heads the list. We tell who is doing what!

 

Deepika Padukone





Ruling the rooster is Deepika Padukone with — Race 2, Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani, Kochadaiyaan and Chennai Express. She is working with superstars like SRK, Saif Ali Khan, Rajnikanth and Ranbir Kapoor in a variety of genres.

 

 

Priyanka Chopra

Priyanka Chopra





She had a super 2012 with two blockbusters in Barfi and Agneepath. In 2013, she will be seen in author-backed roles in potential hits like Gunday, Krishh 3, Mary Kom and Zanjeer. Mary Kom will win her awards and Krishh 3 will be a blockbuster.

 

 

Kareena Kapoor

Kareena Kapoor




She is taking it easy post marriage . She has hand-picked movies such as Prakash Jha's Satyagraha and Punit Malhotra's next romantic comedy with Imran Khan. 

 

Sonam Kapoor

She has been lying low for a while and has had quite a few flops. She is seen on magazines more than in movies. In 2013, she is going to prove her mettle with Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, Raanjhnaa and Khoobsurat. She has strong characters in each movie and her angle is romantic in all of them. She is also doing YRF's romantic comedy with Ayushmann Khurrana which is likely to become a sleeper hit and do wonders for her!

Katrina Kaif

She had a splendid 2013 with Ek Tha Tiger and Jab Tak Hai Jaan. In 2013, Katrina has one confirmed release which is Dhoom 3 in December. And Bang Bang, the official remake of Knight and Day starring her along with Hrithik Roshan will go on the floors in February.

Ranveer hurt!

While shooting for Yash Raj Films’ Gunday, Ranveer Singh fell down from an elevator and got injured. He was shooting a dance sequence. The actor who is shooting back to back for his upcoming films Ram Leela and Gunday hurt himself this year in March while shooting for Lootera too.

The incident took place at Chandivali Studios where Ranveer was shooting for a song. A source informed, "Ranveer was performing his steps on an elevated structure, when he lost his balance and fell down. He hurt his back and suffered injuries on his face. He was rushed to a nearby hospital for medical aid, and the shoot was called off for the day."

Director Ali Abbas Zafar confirmed the news and said, “Ranveer got a little hurt while shooting on the last day. He is fine. After all, the film is called Gunday. Choti moti chot toh lagti rehti hai.”

Ranveer was immediately rushed to the nearest hospital after his cheek split open due to the sudden downfall. The wound has been stitched and the actor joked about his stitch cheek that it makes him “even more in character for Gunday”. 

 

Ayushmann bags YRF biggie!

Ayushmann Khurrana, Sonam Kapoor, and Rishi Kapoor will be part of YRF’s next romantic comedy. A source tells us about the film, "Passionately in love Mohit Chadhdha (Ayushman) and Mayera Sehgal (Sonam), strongly believe it is possible to live on love and fresh air. But Mayera’s wilful bureaucrat father, VK Sehgal (Rishi Kapoor), vehemently disagrees. Is living on love and fresh air really possible?

This satire set in Delhi has been written by the versatile writer/director Habib Faisal and produced by Aditya Chopra, and will be directed by Nupur Asthana.

The untitled film has Rishi Kapoor, Ayushman Khurana and Sonam Kapoor in lead roles. This is both Ayushman and Sonam’s first film with YRF. The film is expected to go on the floors in February and is slated for a 2013 release.

Amrita Rao looking forward to 2013


Be positive: Amrita Rao

Actress Amrita Rao will soon be seen playing a journalist for filmmaker Anil Sharma's Singh Saheb the Great. We caught up with the pretty actress to talk about why she doesn't want to do an item number, her next film, the New Year and more…

What's been keeping you busy?

Currently, I have been shuttling between shooting for Singh Saheb The Great with Sunny Deol and dubbing for Jolly LLB starring Arshad Warsi and Boman Irani.

Tell us about your next film Singh Saheb the Great.

It is a revolutionary film and deals with current affairs. I play a news reporting journalist who is fiercely ambitious and on the go. It's very fascinating to live the life of a journalist. It is going to be an interesting film.

We heard that you interviewed a few reporters in order to train yourself for the character?

I was being interviewed in a news house recently. In the midst of an interview I suddenly snatched the mike from the journo and rather started throwing a bagful of questions at her instead. I got some interesting tips on what they need to do often while on ground coverage reporting, also learnt some slang and got very interesting tips on styling from her. I discussed that with my director Anil Sharma and I am surely incorporating all of that in my character.

What kinds of roles interest you?

I like roles that are unlike me. To portray characters I played in Main hoon Na and Welcome to Sajjanpur were quite a challenge. Vivah too was a new role for me. But I am fascinated with the past. I would love to play any character from the past; it could be a period film or even of the 70's.

Who's your favourite co-star and why?

That's the most difficult question to answer but I guess Shahid Kapoor, because together we have always worked successfully both on the box office as well the in the hearts of the audience.

Many top actresses are doing item numbers these days. Would you like to do one?

I have never done something because other actresses are doing it. You can check my past records. I have always maintained my unique identity in the film industry. Doing item songs is a current trend for sure but it has never been my idea of a profound cinematic achievement.

One actor who you would like to romance on-screen and why?

Wish I could say Raj Kapoor. Raj sahab knew the art of playing the perfect romantic hero on screen. But Ranbir most definitely lives up to his legacy and it would be very interesting to share screen space with him. So I guess him.

Do you have any plans for the New Year celebrations?

I might be shooting in Bhopal this New Year. So I guess it is going to be a year that starts on a very professional note for me.

Do you have any resolutions for next year?

Yes, in 2013 I want to be a more positive person. I want to do something for the people of my country. It could be a small contribution but I always pray to God to help me to make a difference to someone's life.

What's next for you?

I have just read an amazing script. If all goes well I will be signing a new film soon.

chatter box
Twist in the tale

Anamika, on Sony TV, is currently witnessing the marriage track of Rano (Annie Gill) and Shekhar (Sandit Tiwary). We have already seen that the witch doesn’t want Rano and Jeet (Mudit Nayar) to enter into wedlock. The upcoming episodes should be all the more interesting. Our source informs us that Rano will accept Shekhar’s marriage proposal and they will soon tie the knot. However, Anamika will try her best to create differences between Jeet and Rano.

Furthermore, Rano will be mentally tortured by Anamika. Shekhar will not like Rano’s behaviour and wonder if she is abnormal. 

On a song 

With New Year just round the corner everyone is busy planning to celebrate the big day with a bang. Rupali Ganguly aka Pinky of Parvarrish on Sony Entertainment television has made a resolution that she will try her hands in singing apart from her acting career. Recently, we shot an episode where she had to sing. Rupali was pleasantly surprised with her singing and now she wants to nurture it more. She has decided to continue her riyaz under the guidance of her singing teacher. Well, Rupali we wish you all the best and hope you fulfill your resolution.

Fan mail

Vivacious girl: Parineeti Chopra 

The girl who made one of the most stunning debuts of 2012, Parineeti Chopra speaks her heart out to her biggest fan on the episode of Live My Live 2. Tuhin, a fashion designer from Kolkata gets to meet Parineeti on the show.

Parineeti tells Tuhin how she is called a tomboy by her father and he always tells her to act lady like. Tuhin, also tells her that she adores Parineeti’s vivaciousness that makes her so different from everyone else.

Tune in to the heart warming episode of Live My Life 2, featuring Parineeti Chopra and her biggest fan on December 30, 2012, 7pm on UTV Star.

Empower women: Karan


Fight it out: Karan Singh Grover

Karan Singh Grover aka Asad of Qubool Hai feels strongly about women empowerment. He says, “Many social workers across the cities are working to empower women and helping them to fight their own battles”. He also added that we often tend to blame the rise in crime graph on media or western culture, but the fact is that such crimes are an extension of how we behave with women in our houses.

“If a person slaps his wife in front of his son, you cannot expect the same person to respect another woman of society.”

Ready for Atyachaar!

Emotional Atyachaar returns with Season 4 on television with more shocking and astonishing, incidents that you have never seen before. Last few seasons audiences saw loyalty tests and undercover agents uncovering the truth behind the wrecked relationships. Season 4 will shock you more. Emotional Atyachaar Season 4 is expected to go on air on January 26, 2013.

Batting for charity

Good deed: Samir Kochhar

Samir Kochhar is known to do a lot of charity work, so when Suneil Shetty approached him to be a part of the cricket match Samir readily agreed. The funds collected for the match will be used for charity. Despite his busy schedule he still made it a point to join the bandwagon of actors who were to play the match against the actors down south. Fellow actors like Sonu Sood were also a part of this team and Samir enjoyed every bit of it. For him it was more like returning to the college days when he used to play cricket. Samir scored a few impressive runs and the love and adulation he got from people down south was remarkable. 

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Today’s the day to do something for your pleasure. Do all in your power to get agreements. A close rapport may be developing between you and a colleague. Not the right time to contemplate changing jobs. Tarot message: Don’t be dismissive of advice. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 62

TAURUS: Dreaming big? Yes, this is a first step towards success. Many of you have been working constantly at an ambitious career path. Older people may create problems for you. Tarot message: You will be happier if you retain the fruit of your hard work. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 56

GEMINI: The crowning fulfillment of achieving your goals and gaining recognition may arrive soon. Stay focused on your vision as you take the last steps to reach a journey’s end. Consult professionals for legal worries. Tarot message: Infuse your efforts into decisive action. Lucky colour: Bottle green Magic number: 59

CANCER: Like a game of snakes and ladders, you should step back and retrace your steps all over again. A secret love affair will bring you added pleasure. Pedestrians in particular should watch out for careless drivers. Tarot message: It is no longer necessary to take risks. Lucky colour: Rust. Magic number: 44 

LEO: The Page of Swords reveals a good time to tie all loose ends together and take care of precious details with absolute perfection. You are in for a mixed day. Lunar position highlights your service matters. Tarot message: Avoid situations that may turn nasty. Lucky colour: Blue. Magic number: 49

VIRGO: Searching for a soul-mate? You will be able to make the right connection effortlessly, with the added assistance of intuition and trust. All in all an interesting and stimulating day. Someone you care about will see you in the new light. Tarot message: Trust your heart. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 61

LIBRA: The door-way to profound knowledge and insight may open through a wise acquaintance. Little would be achieved by a show of force at this stage. If you want to impress someone important you will find the right approach today. Tarot message: Do not let anyone take advantage of you. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 31

SCORPIO: This is a day that starts calmly and uneventfully, lulling you into a false sense of security. Trusting people who have just appeared on the scene is a foolish move. Go all out to improve your position at work. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Grey. Magic number: 27

SAGITTARIUS: Minding your business is a good choice. Live and let live is a good motto. If a task seems overwhelming, break it down into smaller, simple steps. Concentrate all your energy and efforts towards concluding the task at hand. Tarot message: Strive for perfection at work. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 38

CAPRICORN: Life seems full of contention at the moment and it is hard to get along with others. The postponement of a certain deal could cause you anxiety. Housewives: a good day for buying a piece of jewellery. Tarot message: Don’t be too certain about obtaining a clearance. Lucky color: Purple. Magic number: 40

AQUARIUS: Self- employed and businessmen will feel like putting in a few hours to supervise property ventures. Conditions at home will be pleasant enough. Court witness goes in your favour. Tarot message: You need to act for yourself and for no one else. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 28

PISCES: If there is work to be done and you feel like doing it, go right ahead. House work and chores can be handled efficiently. Consider helping a relative with their domestic needs. Tarot message: Focus on your goals and don’t let temporary setbacks affect you. Lucky colour: Violet. Magic number: 36

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is December 30...

You're extremely optimistic, which makes you popular. People feel like they can accomplish anything when they're in your company. Every difficulty you encounter is treated like an exciting challenge.

A good year although returns and gains could be lower than usual. You should guard against unnecessary ego in speech and actions. Investments in bonds and securities are possible in the second half in the year. You will realise that working with others is better than having others work against you. This will bring in growth as well as progress.

Progress will continue both on personal and professional front. You will find your progress owes more to your non-academic knowledge and instincts. In the second half of the year, the action would move towards family matters and some movement in residence and travel would come about. Avoid unnecessary resentment against family members. This is a year to shine. Your ideas should take centrestage right now. Just be sure to use your charm and tact. Avoid taking decisions prematurely, especially if it involves your daily responsibilities or an urgent family matter. Those who are domineering or pushy should not be allowed to interfere.

Restless energy and emotional conflicts will dot January. Play a waiting game, and don't show your cards. You could find yourself promising too much in order to please everyone. Right now, the stars are reminding you that it's better to say what you mean and mean what you say.  The care and support you'd like can be obtained by showing someone that you are there for them. This mutual concern can last for many years. Always be positive. You must take care of your health and get enough rest because if you push yourself beyond the limit, you will jeopardise your dreams. Mood : Emotional early; clear later

Compatible signs: Pisces, Gemini

Lucky colours: Silver, white.

Lucky days: Tuesday and Saturday.

Lucky numbers: 2, 5, 11, 17, 22.

Eldrick Tont "Tiger" Woods (born December 30, 1975) is an American professional golfer whose achievements to date rank him among the most successful golfers of all time. Formerly the World No. 1, he was the highest-paid athlete in the world according to Forbes for several years.Woods turned professional in 1996, and by April 1997 he had already won his first major. 





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