The Tribune, Chandigarh, India - The Tribune Lifestyle

Small steps to stardom
Child actor Shruti Bisht is taking rapid strides in the world of television
Mona

Shruti Bhist is a regular 10-year-old child; only it’s just not the study pressure she has to tackle but long shifts at work. A television actor since she was eight, the last three years have been exciting and hectic. In Chandigarh recently, the little girl, much tired after an early flight shares excerpts from her journey.

“I like acting. I don’t go to school daily,” she says. Having started with the serial Bidaai, Shruti has worked in serials such as Mata Ki Chowki, Shobha Somnath Ki, Choti Si Zindagi and Hitler Didi.

On her favourite actors, she draws a blank but what she loves to do gets an enthusiastic reply, “I love playing with small puppies on the sets.”

In fact, it’s Vinnie, her doggy at home, that she loves spending time with. And Shruti is happy to have bagged the Best Child Actor Award from Zee Rishte!

mona@tribunemail.com

Wear & tear
Bollywood films, red carpet events, elite parties or television, what our stars wear always makes a huge difference. Here’s a quick check on the best and the worst dressed in 2012
Ashima Batish

For once, give the benefit of doubt to Rohit Bal; the fashion designer wasn’t completely wrong when he made the controversial statement — “Bollywood rules and we are fools” — while referring to film stars who are considered fashion icons in the country. It is true to some extent.

Fashion might originate on the ramp; but it’s put to use on red carpet events; parties where the most elite are invited and at times in Bollywood films. Television soaps hardly contribute; reality shows do, but in bits and pieces. The same was confirmed this year when what was worn by which celebrity made news, when fashion faux pas became debating issues...here’s is a round-up of the best and the worst dressed on the red carpet, in films, soaps and reality shows.

On the red carpet

It was Aishwarya Rai Bachchan who brought home the significance of red carpet dressing with her appearances at Cannes. This year, it were bouquets for her, especially when she walked in the Elie Saab blue sequined gown. Equally appreciated was her Angelo Katsapis kaftan gown.
Kangana Ranaut left people with gaping eyes when she sported the Audrey Hepburn look at the L’Oreal Femina Awards in March this year. In her little black dress, pearls and the French hair twist, she was a complete head-turner.
Priyanka Chopra has hardly ever gone wrong with fashion. Be it on the launch of her music album or her recent appearance at the Marrakesh Film Festival, Morocco. She dazzled in the baroque blouse sari by Ritu Kumar.

Sonam Kapoor features under this category because it’s least expected that she would go wrong with fashion. Yet she did at the Cannes this year, when she wore the gothic black tulle gown by Alexander McQueen. Her hair-do and make-up were of no help either.
Agreed it wasn’t a red carpet event, but still how could Katrina Kaif step out in a sheer black dress, which was covering or uncovering the shiny lingerie? She wore black tights and long boots, the Indian cat woman needs some tips from her stylist for sure!
Alright, anybody can be a victim of wardrobe malfunction but Bollywood celebs don’t get liberties. Can’t forget Parineeti Chopra’s orange dress zip slip.

On the silver screen

Yash Chopra films promise two things — first exotic locales and two ultra-glamourous look of the star cast. While Shah Rukh Khan looked younger by a few years, Katrina Kaif impressed too in Jab Tak Hai Jaan. Must give credit to the stylists; from clothes to make-up, everything was just in place.

Storyline or no storyline, certain films make a mark for the costumes and looks of the actors. Cocktail was one such treat. Deepika Padukone’s almost gothic look, Daina Penty’s almost girl-next-door-in-London look and Saif Ali Khan’s almost Bollywood hero’s look were the highpoints of the film, probably the highest.

Rowdy Rathore wasn’t just about rowdy antics of Akshay Kumar; it was also about rowdy costumes of just about everybody in the movie. And rowdier were Sonakshi Sinha’s dresses. She never gets to wear anything that falls in the bracket of sexy!
What was Ajay Devgnthinking when he exposed his chest in Son of Sardaar? It’s better to talk about dressing up then dressing down. Unfortunately the dressing up part was equally bad, be it for Devgn or Sonakshi Sinha. It’s a bit doubtful if the producers of the film even hired stylists.

On the small screen

How does it matter if the daily soap has a rural or urban backdrop? How does it matter if the protagonist comes from a rich or poor family? When it is men, they have to look dapper in three-piece suits and swept back gelled hair. When it’s about women, they have to wear the same set of sarees and suits. When the girl-next-door gets married, the transition calls for heavily embroidered sarees, complemented by heavy make-up. Remember the young Anandi, she now plays a grown-up married girl in the serial, Sasuraal Simar Ka, which has an urban setting. But her looks have gone regressive. That’s not how young married women dress up these days, that’s not how they declare their relationship status with the heads supporting loads of vermillion. In television soaps, there’s nothing to give a high-five about; everything’s down, thumbs down, yet again in 2012.

On the reality shows

Each saree that Madhuri Dixit picked up, each suit she was dressed in was perfect, in terms of cuts, work, and even the way she carried herself. She acted her age and status; hopefully she will inspire many actors who love to climb the judges’ podium in reality shows. The dhak dhak girl still can set hearts aflutter.
Aamir Khan downplayed himself, let the issues be highlighted. Whatever he wore on Satyamev Jayate never became the talking point, was never meant to and that’s what makes the show and the host so high on style.

This one is meant for Ayesha Takia. Her hosting is a little better than her outfits in Sur Khsetra. The gowns that she wears do not look like gowns; they don’t even fall in the category of really long Anarkali suits. The colour selection is bad and how they are loathed…oops…loaded with embellishments!
It’s not about her Kanjivaram’s, which were as graceful as they can be; it’s about the jewellery that Kirron Kher was asked to wear on the show. It was heavy enough to make a woman hate jewellery!

ashima@tribunemail.com

Costume magic
It is time for the New Year party; here are a few tips that will help you make a bold yet elegant statement
Jigyasa Kapoor Chimra

The clock is ticking down to the New Year - new experiences, new resolutions and a new start; it's time to deck up for a rocking party. Here are some tips on how to be a show-stealer.

Simply fabulous

While sequin dresses seem to be a party favourite from the past few years, this year is no different as we see a lot of bling and sequin dresses. "Bling is obviously in when it comes to party, but this season it's more sophisticated and charming with jewel tones as well as rich fabrics. Velvet is the hottest fabric, so is brocade and baraque. And no matter the body type or personal taste in clothing, there is a little black dress for everyone! Pair it up with something that sparkles," says Seema Sharma from Impressions in Sector 19, Chandigarh.

Dress circle

Gowns are a hot pick this season for formal parties; says Vipin from Gorma designs, "Gowns are a definite pick in formal party-wear. And it's red, pink and purple that are the ruling colours this New Year. One-piece dresses are also doing well, but in these it's the colour black and red that is more wanted. For men, blazers, tuxedos and long coats are the style statement."

More access

"Silk muffler is a safe bet for both the sexes. It's just the style of carrying it that's different. Heavy stone and tribal jewellery is quite in for women and for men, its cufflinks and woollen neck scarves that make a party statement," says Vipin.

Well, if you are scared of bling in clothing then Divya Kapoor from Samsara tips, "Bling is definitely in and if you don't like it on your garments, then brighten up with shoes that have metallic, studded or glitter additives. Pair them up with a chic pantsuit or a stellar plain dress to let them do the talking and walking."

Well, if you want to standout, a sure-shot trick is a bright lipstick, shiny over-the-top accessories and a killer pair of pumps!

Wrap up

Considering the cold weather and outdoor parties, remember to match up your dress with some stylised wraps, colourful pashmina shawl or shrugs. And we believe it's not hard to find elegant wraps or jackets to go with your dress.

Fashion funda

Go big with bling or opt for a pop of colour with the shoes and purse as long as you keep it simple with the colour of the dress.

There is no failing when it comes to the little black dress. No matter the body type or personal taste in clothing you have, there is a little black dress for everyone and every party.

If you are not fond of bling, then make a style statement with something that sparkles, a statement lip, sequin purse or metallic shoes can do the trick.

Men, blazers, tuxedos and long coats are your best bet for a New Year party.

Past present
Rajasthan-based artist Vijay Singh Chouhan’s paintings brings alive the old world charm
Manpriya Singh

Art of the matter: Vijay Singh Chouhan with his works Photo: Pradeep Tewari

Divine reflection: A painting by Vijay Singh Chouhan

It's an endeavour to reflect the classic and still come together with the contemporary. Merging different schools of thought in art and picking every influence along the way because there is not much you can do by keeping things the way they are! "You cannot experiment if you want to retain the authenticity. Traditional art is still related to limited subjects," says Vijay Singh Chouhan, Ajmer-based artist, fine arts teaching professional.

His canvas plays a perfect merging ground for the past and the present. It's been two decades of working on the Ganesha series, a part of which finds its way to the city. "I am displaying works from the Ganesha series on which I've been working since 1992 and the women series, which I started doing only five years ago."

The 32 canvases, mostly in mixed media, draw in heavily from history. The background in each of the works reflects miniature paintings, wall art, old scripts, stone-work, wood-cuts and ancient architecture to lend a surreal feel. "The place where I come from, that is Rajasthan, has a lot of historical influences like old forts, monuments, palaces, colours and culture."

Dull grey, fungal green, faded yellows; the colours contribute to the old world charm. "I've used thickened colour and in a technique called relief effect. The colours have been deliberately kept muted to give an antique feel to the work. Moreover, Ganesha is such an old subject that we had to introduce old colours." The influence and the inspiration all get together to form a collage of art that stands apart. "My grandfather was a miniature artist and so was my father. I started with miniature paintings back in 1975, then with contemporary art. Now I try to harmoniously infuse the two into each other." He adds, "With each passing generation, the influences change and so do the subjects. There are new ideas and techniques but I've tried preserving both in one go."

As for the women series, the characteristic touch remains save for the changed subject. "All the women in my paintings are unknown. It is a tribute to them because their contribution largely remains unacknowledged."

(On till 13th January at Art Portfolio-9, SCO 141-142)

manpriya@tribunemail.com

Traditional touch

The annual Odisha Handlooms & Handicrafts Fair is back at Lajpat Rai Bhavan-15, Chandigarh, with the rich tapestry from the temple state. The fair has been organised by the Orissa State Cooperative Handicrafts Corporation Limited. While four artisans are giving live demonstrations of palm leaf paintings, stone carving, horn carving and appliqué work; there are other riches to be explored.

Sambhalpuri saris are here as re-tussar ones along with dress materials and suit dupattas. Saris start from Rs 900 onwards. Famous stone carvings are here too - you can take your pick from the idols of Ganpati, Buddha, Hanuman, Krishna and more.

There is a range of paintings too…palm leaf, tussar silk to patchitra as well as modern art. Various knick-knacks made from sea shells, coir, horns are there too. While wood carvings are beautiful, dokra castings, the old tribal art, brings loads of jewellery, animal figurines and more. — TNS

(On till January 9)

get physical
Take a deep breath…
Vishal Thukral

Breathing is a process that moves air in and out of lungs. It's the only process that delivers oxygen where it is needed in the body and removes carbon dioxide. Breathing correctly ensures working out for a longer period of time. To hold breath or breathe rapidly during exercise can have certain side effects.

In order to increase endurance while running, the technique of breathing properly should be followed. To get the maximum health benefits from jogging, you need to breathe correctly so that you don't go out of breath. If you find yourself lacking energy following a brisk jog, the problem might be that you are not using the proper breathing technique. The key is to breathe plenty of oxygen for your muscles and exhale fully so that you clear your body from carbon dioxide.

Step 1

Proper breathing technique is the key element of any exercise program. Breathe from the belly, not the lungs. Breathing short and shallow can make you feel tired very quickly. The more oxygen you can take into your body with each breath, the less effort it takes to breathe.

Step 2

Take deep breaths, inhale through your mouth and nose before exhaling through your mouth. This supplies more oxygen to your blood.

Step 3

Relax your jaw and open your mouth a little as you jog. Deep breathing helps release tension from your body.

Step 4

Breathe faster as you jog at a faster pace to get enough oxygen to your lungs so that you don't tire quickly.

Diet Tip

An apple a day might keep the doctor away, but it can also help you reach your weight loss goals. Apples are super high in fiber, which helps to satiate hunger.

(Thukral is a Chandigarh based aerobic and fitness trainer)

stress buster
Fun without stress
Renee Singh

Celebrations and stress, sounds strange. Ushering in the New Year, parties and wedding seem to be the routine of the season. For most of us this is perhaps the busiest time of the year. We're preparing for holidays or we're recovering from them. On the one hand we are leading our already hectic lives and on the other hand we are trying to deal with the pace and trying to find the peace within ourselves.

Many of us don't do not even realise that we are reeling under the stress of this hectic partying. It is important to know how to deal with this and really enjoy from within. Put your minor stresses on the backburner.

Seize the moment

We normally go, "Oh, I'll do it later, at the moment there is too much to deal with.'' Well, life goes on and time waits for no one. Napolean Hill said, "Don't wait, the time will never be right''

Savour life

This is very important. Each moment is precious and needs to be lived to the fullest. Do not keep looking towards the future to enjoy or going back to the past which you really enjoyed. Do it now and find your own quick path to happiness.

Gratifications

Gratifications don't necessarily bring cheerfulness or ecstasy but they do bring total engagement, lack of self-consciousness and fulfillment. The beneficial experience of gratifications is lasting than that of pleasures. Of course I do not want to deny the happiness we get from simple pleasures like just going to a party. Since the pursuit of happiness is a simple, joyful and universal pursuit and must never be undermined, but connect to a more lasting source of joy which is extremely important.

Positive psychology

Thanks to the discovery of positive psychology, we now have a more detailed understanding of what createsan enjoyable life. One way to relieve stress and create a more enjoyable life is the pursuit of pleasures. Of course we all need to realise that all pleasures are subjective but by raising our consciousness to enjoy our positive experiences, we can strategise and arrive at a constant state of happiness.

Avoid habituation

We do develop a rapid rate of habituation that comes with most pleasures and stress relief habits, so it is advisable that we vary our strategies of stress relief. Stagnation and boredom sets in very fast in the human mind. Live a lifestyle which includes some physical pleasures, some intellectual ones and some accomplishments-induced pleasures.

A quick boost

Avoid stress by keeping a calm and peaceful inner-self. Be simple in your choices of life's pleasures and feel the stress-free joy in life.

(Singh is a Chandigarh-based psycho therapist)

Busy year ahead

Gearing up: Ranbir Kapoor Ranbir Kapoor has had a busy year with Barfi and Yeh jawaani Hai Deewani (yet to be completed and released) and now he has started shooting Abhinav Kashyap's Besharam. He has taken some time off to go to the US with his friends to usher in the New Year.

A source says, "Ranbir Kapoor loves partying and he has decided to take time off and go to the US to have some fun! Next year he will not get time to go on a holiday. He is going with his closest friends. Rumour has it that his alleged lady-love Katrina Kaif will join him there too because they like meeting in the US as it gives them a semblance of privacy. Katrina is already in the UK for Christmas and New Year's with her family."

The source continues, "Ranbir and Katrina are a couple but they are not out in the open yet. They go for movies, dinners and parties. Recently, they were at Bosco-Caesar's party and they kept making each other laugh, they cuddled each other, and stuck to each other all through the evening. They looked cute together. It will be a while before they make their romance public as Ranbir will have to convince Katrina for the same. She likes to keep her private life to herself."

Well, we wish them a Happy 2013!

Effort gone waste

Lost chance: Saroj Khan In her long and illustrious career this must be the first occasion when choreographer Saroj Khan's work has been scrapped. It is with some amount of shock and disbelief that we hear of the legendary Saroj Khan being relieved of her duties, and that too after she had completed her work for Vishal Bharadwaj's Matru Ki Bijli Ka Mandola.

The song in question is the catchy Oye Boy Oye Boy Charlie featuring Imran Khan, Anushka Sharma, Pankaj Kapoor, Aarya Babbar and a host of actors and junior artistes. After Saroj Khan completed choreographing the number, Vishal scrapped her choreography and completely re-did the entire song.

"Vishal has the greatest regard for Saroj Khanji. Who doesn't? To have her choreograph the Charlie song was a dream come true for Vishal. And to her credit she did a brilliant job of it. But finally what Saroj ji did with the song was not what Vishal wanted. The director had envisaged an air of unrehearsed spontaneity in the movements. The characters in the Charlie song shouldn't have looked like they knew their dance steps from before. To get that spirit of on-the-spot improvisation into the choreography Vishal had to reluctantly re-do the entire choreography of the song," says a source close to the project.

Apparently Imran and Anushka, both extremely busy actors, readily accommodated a second round of choreography for the song, though we hear there was a certain amount of all-round trepidation and misgiving about doing away with the veteran choreographer's efforts.

"Vishal, Imran and Anushka felt sorry about dancing to the Charlie song again, more so since Sarojji's choreography was as usual, brilliant. But they all felt it wasn't what was required," says the source. When contacted all Vishal revealed was that he did indeed do the choreography of the Oye Boy Charlie number. "Something inside me told me I should," said Vishal.

Ajay to romance Deepika

Deepika Padukone
Coming together: Ajay Devgn and (left) Deepika Padukone

Changing tracks for the first time, Prabhu Deva, who made a name by directing remakes in Salman Khan's Wanted and Akshay Kumar's Rowdy Rathore, is now all set to direct an original action comedy with Ajay Devgn and Deepika Padukone.

Prabhu Deva, who is known for his unusual pairing that was seen in Salman Khan and Ayesha Takia in Wanted and Akshay Kumar and Sonakshi Sinha in Rowdy Rathore, chose Ajay Devgn and Deepika Padukone, because the hero in the film will be a hardcore character while the heroine will be a soft and emotional one. With both Deepika and Prabhu Deva busy with the shooting of Chennai Express and post-production of Any Body Can Dance (ABCD) respectively, there seems to be ample time for this particular film to go on floors.

CHATTER BOX

Anniie Gill Plan of action
New Year is around the corner, we ask TV stars about their plans as well as resolutions for 2013

At God’s will
Anniie Gill

When I was in Punjab with my parents, we used to welcome the New Year by going for an outing. Now that I am in Mumbai, I will have a good time with my friends. I will also visit a temple. I live each day with gratitude and zest. Vishal Singh

Diet chart
Vishal Singh

To celebrate January 1, I am going to Alibaug at my friends place. This year too I’ll focus on my health and for that I am going to exercise regularly and will eat healthy. Mudit Nayar

Aiming high
Mudit Nayar

I generally celebrate New Year with my family or close friends. This year though I will be shooting. I would have loved to spend time with my family in Delhi. I am grateful that I bagged Anaamika and will put in all my efforts to make the show a success. Rupali Ganguly

Home bound
Rupali Ganguly

I never go out anywhere on the day. I just love to spend time with my parents. I recently realized that I can sing pretty well. So for this year, I want to continue with my riyaaz. Simran Kaur

Live in the moment
Simran Kaur

I make it a point to go to gurdwara on New Year’s eve.

This year if the shooting schedule will be suitable, then I might party.

I personally don’t believe in New Year resolutions.

You don’t require a particular day to change or do something different. If you really want to do something you can start right from today.

Busy body
Shweta Tiwari

This year I am a bit busy. I am performing for the New Year shows in different cities. My resolution is no resolution for 2013. I prefer to live in the present and take challenges head on. I believe hard work can change any difficult situation.

Right move: Yaami Gautam Right moves

Yaami Gautam did not have to dance in Vicky Donor but she will have to dance at some time or the other in Hindi films so she is learning Kathak to get some grace and polish her dancing skills…

Right move: Yaami Gautam

Looking ahead: Arjun Rampal On a promotional drive

Arjun Rampal has got huge response for the promos of Inkaar so he is going all out to promote it. There was a calendar launch for it as well and he has postponed the shooting of his next with Nikhil Advani for Inkaar which releases on 18 January, 2013.

Looking ahead: Arjun Rampal

Happy girl: Bipasha Basu High point

Bipasha Basu says the high point for her in 2012 was the negative role she played in Raaz 3 and the accolades she got for it plus the success of the movie! She is in a very good space right now and enjoying being single.

Happy girl: Bipasha Basu

Bigg prediction!

LEAD ROLE: Salman Khan The winner of Bigg Boss 6 is yet to be announced but the result is already declared by celebrity numerologist Bhavikk Sangghvi. He predicts that Niketan Madhok will be the winner of Bigg Boss 6.

Though the host Salman Khan is the real hero of the show, he says that even Niketan has gained a lot popularity. Here's how he explains his theory, "Niketan was born on October 9, 1982 which makes him a Number 9 (Mars) person in numerology. Like all Librans, he is ruled by Number 6 (Venus) while his destiny number adds up to Number 3 (Jupiter)." explains Bhavikk. "Niketan turned 30 recently which indicates that his best phase is just about to begin," predicts Bhavikk sounding optimistic about the young contestant's future.

He continues, "The grand finale episode of the show will be aired on January 12, 2013 and the compound number (sum total) arrived from this date is Number 1 (Sun). The name 'Niketan Madhok' vibrates on Number 46 (4+6=1)". He adds that the upcoming year 2013 which adds up to Number 6 (Venus) is likely to prove lucky for most Number 3, 6 and 9 people and as explained above after analyzing his numbers, he says, "Niketan is just destined to win the popular reality show."

ASTRO TURF
P Khurrana

ARIES: This is a great day to get your ideas down on paper and start planning your next project. Do not let people intrude into your space if you need solitude. This is a good day for dealing with accounts. Tarot message: Be careful not to go in too many directions at the same time. Lucky colour: Lemon. Magic number: 39

TAURUS: Romance and creativity are highlighted. This is also the perfect time to begin a new personal project. Family matters can keep you busy in the evening. Misunderstanding must be guarded against. Tarot message: Listen to your voice of wisdom. Lucky colour: Baby-pink. Magic number: 27

GEMINI: Romance and passion are on the cards. Do not allow feelings of frustration to overtake you. Newly married - adjustment takes time. A curious mind will take you to some interesting places today. Tarot message: Learn from past mistakes and get on with your life. Lucky colour: Coral. Magic number: 60

CANCER: Your card “Five of Swords” reveals physical activity and pleasure. Do not start this day by being extravagant. You must cut down on spending. Tarot message: Think before you open your mouth to avoid misunderstandings. Lucky colour: Indigo. Magic number: 42

LEO: It is the time to begin new projects. Make important calls, write up a proposal and do anything that requires a starting point. Enjoy this evening with your spouse. Tarot message: Fitness routine and healthy diet is prescribed for your well-being. Lucky colour: Lime-green. Magic number: 54

VIRGO: Business dealings can fall due to lack of details and information. Confusion over priorities can also cause havoc at the workplace. Do not interfere in the affairs of others. Keep your mind off the past. Tarot message: Perseverance is the key to success. Lucky colour: Sky-blue. Magic number: 63

LIBRA: A career switch can mean having to move out of state or overseas and upsetting things at the home front. You will spend quite a lot of time on planning. Business matters are fairly under control. Tarot message: Do not deplete your energy or resources on others. Lucky colour: Sea-green. Magic number: 55

SCORPIO: Stick to the beaten track today and look after yourself. At the end of the day, you will be proud of what you have achieved and be rewarded with a bonus. Long-term investments will benefit. Tarot message: Be honest to your desires. Lucky colour: Rust. Magic number: 38

SAGITTARIUS: Let the special romance in your life know that you care for his or her space. Students: light reading will keep you busy today. Maintain better communication with colleagues. Tarot message: Arrogance will not be rewarded. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 40

CAPRICORN: Your card “The Devils” boosts your enthusiasm and self-confidence. Use this time to expand your social circle, develop new talents, learn new hobbies or plan a vacation. You will be introduced to new people. Tarot message: Versatility will bail you out of a situation. Lucky colour: golden. Magic number: 28

AQUARIUS: This is an important day for any job that you can tackle away from public scrutiny. Students: go over the books. An unexpected guest may gate-crash into your party. A romantic mood can colour even the toughest situation. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid delays. Lucky colour: Coffee-brown. Magic number: 41

PISCES: You draw the Ace of Pentacles; so you will begin the day full of energy and confidence. New ventures that are launched have a better chance of being a success. Tarot message: Bury an old quarrel and be prepared to make a compromise. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 33

THE YEAR AHEAD
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is December 31...

Some of you will be dealing with personal problems. Try not to get into discussions about politics with friends and associates, as they are likely to become arguments. Instead, find a balance between giving and receiving in your life. One of the best ways to do this is through a loving relationship, so spend time with your significant other.

Getting some fresh air and enjoying the beauty of nature will be very beneficial for you. Don't buy an expensive item without proper research.

Your creative side is dominant in 2013, although you will be more interested in looking and learning than in actually making art. All in all this year will be a busy one, which will bring in contentment, happiness and encouragement for Capricorns. You'll have great opportunities to consolidate your relationship; you'll decide important dates for your life with your beloved. Fear nothing for this is a favourable moment. You can reach your goal slowly with a consistent approach. Along the way you'll meet important and influential people. Make sure your dedication to your job isn't overshadowing your time with your family. Balance is the key; so reprioritise your tasks so that you have time to have fun.

A gift, grant or inheritance gives you a much-needed financial cushion. In the homes of people under Capricorn sign, contentment and love overflows. You will have smooth-sailing family relationships through the whole year and an uncomplicated social life. You love socialising and are so persuasive that people really admire it. You get your strength and your goodness from your friends, family and co-workers.

However, there are times when your seriousness might get in the way during 2013 even if you try not to be affected by it. In personal relationships, you might experience some problems. Try to discuss them with your partner. Do not be anxious if these things happen because in the last six months of 2013, there will be bliss and harmony in your relationships, especially in your married life. New Year also promises a new house at a new place.

Prabhu Ganesan Mood: A bit 'tense' at times.

Compatible signs: Leo, Libra.

Lucky colours: Blue, Grey.

Lucky days: Friday and Sunday.

Lucky numbers: 3, 8, 12, 16, 21.

Prabhu Ganesan (December 31, 1956, Chennai) is a Tamil film actor and producer. He is the son of legendary Tamil thespian Sivaji Ganesan, who has appeared in over 125 films. Ganesan frequently appeared alongside Rajinikanth, Kamal Hassan and his father Sivaji Ganesan during this time period. He received a Best Actor Award in 1991. He also appeared in Suyamvaram.