Dress to the occasion
Women in the private sector are much at ease in Western formals while their counterparts in the government set-up still like to don traditional outfits. Can the trend be reversed? We find out
Ashima Batish

Deepti Naval The young, not-so-naive Maya Luthra (Chitrangada Singh) and the experienced, not-so-judgemental Mrs Kaamdar (Deepti Naval), without dwelling on the topic, make fashion statements that speak for two different sections of working women in the film Inkaar. The first is representative of the corporate sector, where with attitude one wears formals that aren’t minus the style. The second, a social activist, in a way becomes mirror image of women working in the public sector, still swearing by the handwoven sarees. Both enjoy power, look dignified and are accepted as far as their dress codes are concerned.

Can it be the other way round though, where women in the corporate sector can work as swiftly in well-draped sarees as they do in high heels and pencil skirts or can those in the government jobs feel as comfortable in Western formals?

It’s not as if the women in the bureaucratic set-up stick to sarees for patriotic reasons, it is more so because that’s how it has been since ages. Prabdip Brar, Assistant professor, UIFT, Panjab University, feels the there is still time before women can actually wear Westerns in the public sector undertakings, “There are younger employees in the corporate sector as compared to the public sector, which is why Westerns are more acceptable.” For that matter, even young girls aged twenty-five or so who join the government offices switch to the traditional-wear in no time. “The government sector employees have been conditioned to accept norms; anything that is experimental is rejected, it is not as simple for women to wear trousers and blazers as it might seem.”

Chitrangada SinghOn the contrary, in the corporate sector, it’s the trouser blazer combination that’s considered as power dressing. As for sarees, time crunch is the issue. As Annu Saboo, Head marketing, communication and training for Ethos, says, “A saree makes for the most elegant outfit for office, but the question is how practical is it? Long working hours plus managing household chores; it’s much easier to run around in Westerns.” As for her office, she has a set dress code — trousers, blazer and a short-sleeves shirt. “It is elegant, very formal and at the same time very practical, but it will take time before the same enters the public sector domain,” says Annu. Breaking conventions is never easy!

It’s not even about the comfort factor; women in public sector wear traditional dresses, preferably sarees, because it has become a practice. Seema Verma, a government sector employee, agrees, “It’s not just about feeling at ease in a dress; trousers and skirts with shirts might be really comfortable, but will they make you feel so in the public set up where there are chances of you being the odd one out.”

It can’t be denied that even when given a choice between traditional clothes and Westerns, women in the corporate sector, pick the latter. Draw a comparison between the high heels that are worn with trousers and sarees, even then the choice remains the same. “It takes a couple of seconds to wear and take off heels as against draping a saree, which requires perfection that only comes with time. Westerns are any day more comfortable,” says Ritika Mehta, a private bank employee.

While women in the corporate sphere can still take to sarees, the possibility of those in the government sector wearing skirts looks bleak for the time being.

ashima@tribunemail.com 

Attuned to perfection
Violinist Kala Ramnath has taken her art across the globe, it’s in India now that she wants to do more …
Mona

What’s violin to you?
My life!

 Kala RamnathThat’s the best introduction to Kala Ramnath, violinist virtuoso. Born into a steep music tradition, Kala started playing the violin when all of three. Trained in classical music, she has to her credit various successful crossovers with other music genres.

In Chandigarh on the invite of SPICMACAY (Society for Promotion of Indian Classical Music And Culture Amongst Youth) on Saturday, Kala talks about her journey.

“Music is all I have,” says Kala, who feels proud to have been a student of Pandit Jasraj. “It was timely guidance by music stalwarts like Ustad Zakir Hussain and Pandit Ravi Shankar that shaped up much of my career,” she adds. Having performed at prestigious international platforms, she next aims to take music to every corner of India.

“We are truly blessed to have the colossal heritage that we are custodians of,” says Kala, who wants amongst other things that the unprivileged and differently-abled children reap the benefits of her art. Not only concerts, she has also held workshops around the world and teaching is close to her heart.Having mastered the violin, the rather Western instrument, Kala has mesmerised audiences abroad with her finesse. The crossovers have been a huge success. She shares the secret, “Indian classical artistes do not read and play; they hear and play. Our training is so impeccable right from the childhood that with a bit of imagination and adaptability, we can click with any musical genre.” Improvisation comes quick to Kala and though it was a challenge to work with composers James Newton Howard and George Acogny in the background score of the Hollywood film Blood Diamond, she sailed fine. Pretty open to working in Bollywood, Kala has not heard from anyone yet nor is she pursuing anybody. “There have been offers from Hollywood and I am working on a few projects,” she says. mona@tribunemail.com

Getting naughty
Pankaj Batra’s upcoming movie Naughty Jatts promises a laughter riot...
Jasmine Singh

Sergeant Nicolas Broody, a war hero, returns to his country and family in the English series Homeland. Now, everyone wants a bit of him. Okay, it ends here. Now is the time to draw an interesting analogy. Our man, the jatt returns home from the lush green fields; to his college, to his ‘modern’ beautiful lady and here again, everyone wants a bit of it. At least, Pollywood is in no mood of leaving him alone!

This time, they have called him to do an entertaining act and they’ve called it Naughty Jatts. A Multiline Entertainment Pvt Ltd film directed by Pankaj Batra of Virsa fame, this jatt is going to tickle your funny bone for sure (as you know and like you know) and also guarantee wholesome entertainment. This ‘naughty jatt’ will make sure he is different. Joining him in this are actors Aarya Babbar, Neeru Bajwa, Roshan Prince, BN Sharma and Binnu Dhillon. Each one of them have had their encounters with the jatt, save for Aarya Babbar.

Punjabi at heart

His role in Matru Ki Bijli Ka Mandola is still getting appreciation. And for sure, Aarya knows about it. “I am thankful that Vishal Bhardwaj gave me a part in the movie. I am glad I was a part of the project,” he says. Aarya loves Punjabi movies; with loads of good work to look forward to, this is his first encounter with the jatt. “I liked the initial title of the film Chandigarh Karey Ashiqui; I guess this one is interesting and offers a lot of promise.”

Aarya is flooded with offers but he wants to take time before he gets on with another project. “I have worked with Pankaj Batra before, so we are hoping to create entertaining work again.”

Crazy jatt

Binnu Dhillon is no longer a name that will take time to register. You just can’t miss him. However, he tries to do something different every time. “I am inspired by people around; laughter is something that is hidden everywhere,” adds Binnu, who plays Laali in Naughty Jatts. His role in Carry On Jatta was worth remembering. “I am always different in comedy. Carry On Jatta was a comedy of a different kind; a good one, I am trying to do the same but through different characters.”

Director’s call

Pankaj Batra is the name attached with Virsa, a movie with more interesting songs! He says, “Jatt portrays our culture, it brings in fun and naughtiness; so the name Naughty Jatts. As the title of the movie suggests, there are lots of naughty jatts in 
this musical romantic comedy that will only leave the audience in peals of laughter.”

The prince

Roshan Prince is the name that is being talked about in the Punjabi film circuit. He is young, vibrant and can deal with the jatt. “This movie is not about a particular age group. It caters to one and all.” He laughs, “We are all naughty and chasing Neeru Bajwa in the movie.”

Lesser the better

Neeru Bajwa, Punjabi film actresss, has worked with maximum jatts and this time she hopes, “I think we are making an entertaining movie.”

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Jatt portrays our culture, it brings in fun and naughtiness; so the name Naughty Jatts. There are lots of naughty jatts in this musical comedy.

Pankaj Batra

I am inspired by people around; laughter is something that is hidden everywhere

Binnu Dhillon

I liked the initial title of the film; I guess this one is interesting and offers a lot of promise.

Aarya Babbar

Dimension effect
An installation by artist Nitin Dutt, which is part of a modern home decor, suggests the idea of growth in spatial terms 
Mona

Nitin Dutt
Many dimensions: Nitin Dutt

Experimentation and interaction are significant aspects of artist Nitin Dutt’s works. Only he has found a new place and material to showcase it.

An installation, as big as five by nine by three, adorns the hallway of a modernistic house in Sector 18. An idea that started with word ‘growth’, Nitin spills the beans, “When Ajay Gupta contacted me to do this for his home; the word ‘growth’ came first to my mind.” And growth, Nitin associates with a tree. The final work is a three-dimensional crisscross of cubes with branches carved out in sun-board, an acrylic-based light-weight material.

Cubes, some as small as four inches and stretching up to eighteen inches, protrude out of the wall making a canopy on the double-height hallway. An orange board makes the base for the white cubes. The piece offers a unique view from the ground floor and gallery from the first floor.

Can’t call it a mural or sculpture, it’s the ambiguity of this piece that engages Gupta family and their visitors. The white cubes with branching out on orange background give a hint about the element of fire; orange being one of his favourite colour as well. “Being a sculptor, I did not think in terms of colour to begin with. The final colour scheme got a go-ahead for it gelled well with the house’s décor as well.”

Ajay is a proud owner of this unique piece as well as its keeper. “Our house is still in its finishing stages, but this piece is the central point of discussion for all those who visit,” he says.

The artist is happy for this work addresses two characteristics that he looks for in his works – experimentation and the potential to engage a viewer. “As a sculptor, there is another challenge that I face - that of transporting,” says Nitin, who is contemplating whether the decreasing use of stone is an issue of concern.

mona@tribunemail.com

Sufi sensation
Lakhwinder Wadali is carrying a legacy forward. And in his own special way...
Amarjot Kaur

When music meditates, it searches for its soul in the echo of Sufism. Looping into the tradition that the Wadali brothers have cultivated for over four generations now, Lakhwinder Wadali, son of Ustad Puran Chand Wadali, is all set to launch his new album Ishqe daa jaam. In Chandigarh with his father, Lakhwinder, shares excerpts from his journey in the world of music. “I always wanted to play cricket at the national and international level, but my father remained rather persistent that I take the family tradition forward,” says Lakhwinder. You cannot escape but notice his father’s eyes twitch while he narrates his heart out; he continues to explain nevertheless, “However, I reconciled with my wants and over years of understanding Sufi music, taken an infectious liking to it.”

Ustad Puran Chand Wadali smiles and explains that it was important for his son to take the legacy forward. “I remember that when my liking for cricket surpassed his patience levels, he took my kit and threw it in the tandoor,” says Lakhwinder.

While talking about his album, comprising eight songs, out of which seven are solo, one of the song Tujhe takeya toh has been sung by father, son and uncle trio. “I love the song and even the album,” confesses Lakhwinder while adding, “The album Ishqe da jaam is about how love can be intoxicating. If you read through the lyrics, you will be able to connect with your God and take a plunge into the divine aesthetics of devotional poetry.”

Although most of us confuse folk music with Sufi music, Lakhwinder details that there is a marked difference between the two, “Sufi music is all about the love that one feels for God. It’s essentially devotional unlike folk.”

About the influx of Western genre into Indian music and the degeneration of poetry Ustad Puran Chand Wadali says, “When it comes to genre and keeping up with it, a musician who excels at classical knowledge has nothing to fear. It’s like when you know how to ride a bicycle, you can always ride a motorbike.” However his dislike for the new lyrics is apparent as he says, “Why make songs that a family cannot listen together? I don’t think that music should be abusive or demeaning in any way.”

Lakhwinder is already embarking on his journey in Bollywood and we will be able to hear him soon in Singh v/s Chautala.

amarjot@tribunemail.com

What’s app!
Celebrity chef Vikas Khanna is all set to judge a gizmo-based reality show…
Jasmine Singh

Vikas Khanna Chopped, sauté, garnished…..he has tossed a new dimension into the word cooking. Celebrity chef Vikas Khanna from Amritsar has literally pushed women into making simple, basic yet interesting dishes with his charming smile and cooking recipes. For the first time now, he leaps on an altogether new dimension. He is now associated with the first tech show Nokia Lumia Your Wish Is My App Campaign. A technology freak himself, Vikas adds different flavours to the new job.

Changed notion

To me app used to be just another name for appetizers. The notion, however, changed when I was introduced to the world of apps by Nokia and Rajiv Makhni during the Nokia App-tasting events. Now, I have a different perception about it. I have realised how a simple app can actually make your life easier. I am very excited to be working with Nokia again and really looking forward to the next leg of the campaign, which is the television reality show.

What’s new?

I was surprised to see how much people depend on technology and how it can take the burden off our heads. It is like cooking; just gets better with time. I saw some interesting applications that people have come up with. Applications that enhance the safety of women are something on everyone’s mind. Some app ideas just blew my mind off. It will be tough for us to decide the winner.

The geek

I come across interesting ingredients in the kitchen that can add spice to the dishes. On the same lines, I have realised there is an app for just about everything. And the benefits of these apps are beyond anyone’s imagination. They are fun, quirky and utility-based. On my Nokia Lumia 920, I have an app called Nokia City Lens, which lets me explore a place that I have never travelled before, helps me with nearby restaurants and instantly share with my friends. Since I am always on-the-go, news app keeps me updated on what’s happening around the world. Since, I love clicking photographs while I am traveling; the PureView camera or the Smart Shoot lens on my phone always comes handy.

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Campaign time

Nokia Lumia ‘Your wish is my app’ is a campaign that gave consumers the unique opportunity to submit mobile application ideas that have the potential to be developed into successful apps and stand a chance to win Rs 10 lakhs (1 million). This is not all, the campaign will eventually turn into a first-ever app reality show in the country which will be aired on NDTV starting February 9, 2013. The nine-episode reality TV show will see top 42 contestants present their ideas to judges for a detailed conversation. Apart from Vikas Khanna, Bollywood actor Kalki Koechlin, Rajiv Makhni, are among the other judges. 

Master Chef
Salad days
Vishvesh Khanna

With the gourmand being more and more adventurous, we are looking to other cuisines for the taste and foodie adventures. Chicken, already being so versatile, makes a wholesome dish when combined with fruits.

Grilled Caribbean chicken salad

4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves

1/2 cup teriyaki marinade

4 cups chopped iceberg lettuce

4 cups chopped green leaf lettuce

1 cup chopped red cabbage

5.5 oz. can pineapple chunks in juice

drained tortilla chips

Pico de Gallo

2 tomatoes (diced)

1/2 cup diced onion

2 tsps chopped fresh jalapeno pepper, seeded and de-ribbed

2 tsp finely minced fresh coriander

Pinch of salt

Combine all ingredients in a small bowl. Cover and chill.

Honey lime Dressing

1/4 cup dijon mustard

1/4 cup honey

1.5 tbsp sugar

1 tbsp sesame oil

1.5 tbsp apple cider vinegar

1.5 tsp lime juice

Procedure

  • Blend all the ingredients in a small bowl with an electric mixer. Cover and chill.
  • Marinate the chicken in the teriyaki for at least  two hours. Put in fridge. Preheat outdoor or indoor grill.
  • Grill the chicken for 4?5 minutes per side or until done.
  • Toss the lettuces and cabbage together and divide into 2 large serving size salad bowls.
  • Divide the Pico de Gallo and pour in equal portions over the two bowls of greens.
  • Divide the pineapple and sprinkle on salads.
  • Break tortilla chips into large chunks and sprinkle on salads.
  • Slice the grilled chicken into thin strips and divide among bowls.
  • Pour the dressing into two small bowls and serve with the salads.

(Khanna is a Ludhina-based culinary expert) —As told To Poonam Bindra

High Spirits
Coor-ca-light
Vineet Mishra

A refreshing Vodka orange and chilled beer cocktail!! Ingredients 45 ml Fuel Orange Vodka 10 ml cucumber syrup lemon juice Coors light beer 

Instructions  Pour ingredients into a cocktail shaker, except beer. Shake, strain and pour into a tall glass and top it with Coors light beer. Garnish with a lemon wheel.

Cocktail joke: A bear comes to a pub and looks at the barkeep. The bartender asks, “What can I get you?” The bear says, beer cocktail.

(Mishra is the owner of CocktailJockey.com)

Chic choice

 Sonal Manik Every person has a sense of style in his or her own right. Yet, there are only a few who’d attract the second glances, who have the power to make the camera go zoom on them. It could be the tousled hair or it could be torn jeans. Our this week’s face in the crowd Sonal Manik, 23, a business person, can be both easy going as well as choosy when it comes to dressing up.

Your sense of style is…

I would describe my sense of style as lady-like. I like it when a woman’s dressing sense is feminine and elegant.

Latest addition in your wardrobe…

A Louis Vuitton Speedy 30 bag.

Brand freak or street smart?

A bit of both. It depends on how I style myself.

Choose one—sporty, glamorous or chic

I like to keep it easy going and chic for day time and routine occasions. When it’s something special, I definitely like to look glamorous.

Your style icon …

My style icon would be socialite Natasha Poonawala. For me, she is a fashion goddess.

Who’s the worst-dressed celebrity around?

Tanushree Dutta. After all, there has to be some sense of style to look good.

One fashion trend you don’t understand…

When people overdo stuff. It does nothing to enhance your personality.

Your take on accessories…

A woman is incomplete without accessories. It enhances your look and must be definitely used wisely.

One thing that boosts your confidence…

Appreciation and recommendation of my hard work.

You would love to be dressed up by….

My imagination. That is what sets you apart from others.

(As told to Manpriya Singh)

(If you think you too fit the profile, get in touch with us at lifestyletribune@gmail.com We’ll sift the best from the rest)

star track
Stars and their BFFs
It is said that there are no permanent friends and enemies in the glamour industry. Yet, there are some friendships in Bollywood that have been going strong since a long time. Read on to find out

Kareena Kapoor and Amrita Arora Ladak:

Kareena and Amrita's friendship is legendary and works to a large extent because Amrita can never be a threat to Kareena who is close to the entire Khan-daan. Kareena recently threw a bash in Goa for Amrita's birthday and they were bridesmaids at each other's weddings. Kareena helped Amrita bag roles in two of her films and Amrita does whatever Kareena does like Yoga, losing weight, following a diet and more.

Ranbir Kapoor and Imtiaz Ali:

The director and actor became friends during the making of Rockstar and have maintained their friendship. They travel together and hang out at eating joints in Mumbai. Imtiaz is even making his next film with Ranbir Kapoor. Ranbir looks up to Imtiaz.

 Preity Zinta and Sophie Choudry:

The pretty and fashionable ladies have a common set of friends and party together. Sophie is Preity's BFF! PZ even launched Sophie's music album recently. Both are single, hot girls in their 30s!

Hrithik Roshan and Shah Rukh Khan:

The superstars and their wives are best buddies and have been for a number of years. Their friendship startled and silenced all critics and gossips who said that SRK was threatened by Hrithik's stardom. They go for holidays together and hang out and throw parties for one another.

Sajid Khan and Ajay Devgn:

The hit director and the superstar have been friends since college, for more than twenty years. One usually does not read about their friendship. They had a blast making Himmatwala together and believe in making blockbuster entertainers for mass audiences.

Karan Johar to work with Akshay Kumar

Karan Johar Karan Johar and Akshay Kumar will finally work together on a movie produced by K Jo. Akshay Kumar has previously joked that Karan Johar does not find him competent enough do a movie under Dharma Productions.

Karan Johar surprised Akshay by agreeing to co-produce a film starring him in the lead. Punit Malhotra will be directing the film which is set in Mumbai and will have one more hero and one heroine, a love triangle of sorts. The film is in the early stages of pre-production.

Karan says, "The heroes have been finalised. The other hero is a star in Akshay's league. The heroine is yet to be finalised. It is a joint production between Hari Om and Dharma. We will make an announcement soon about it. The movie is about two men fighting for justice."

Karan added, "Akshay and I were just talking and our ideas turned into a film. It will be Punit's third film for Dharma and he will shoot it early next year after Gori Tere Pyaar Mein has released. Akshay and I have been planning to work together for a while and it has finally worked out. Tina (Twinkle Khanna) and I have been friends for a long time. I feel Akshay is a fine actor and is bankable too."

Akshay's next release is Special Chhabbis whereas Karan Johar's next release will be Unglee starring Emraan Hashmi, Kangna Ranaut which is directed by Rensil D'silva.

No rush

Shahana Goswami Shahana Goswami is happy space in her relationship with Milind Soman as they have been going steady for a while. She is only 26 and he is nearly twice her age but they are in no hurry to get married. She wants to get married when she is 35. Both of them have films that released on February 1. David was Milind Soman's release and Midnight's Children was Shahana's release.

Mr Magnanimous

Salman Khan has set up a cancer awareness camp just outside his house. He has provided a doctor with two bodyguards and sometimes the cases are referred to Salman Khan, if they are very needy. The fee is only two rupees or it is free. He helps people financially and in other ways and has been associated with cancer awareness for more than a decade.

Break free in Bangkok

Yami Gautam Yami Gautam was recently in Bangkok for an advertorial shoot and she had a blast in the city from shopping in the biggest malls, to riding bikes to going to Buddhist temples, and eating loads of street food and doing street shopping. She had a blast there!





Shopping spree: Yami Gautam

Punjabi beats

Kajal Aggarwal Kajal Aggarwal, the Aamchi Mumbai-Punjaban kudi is famous for her enviable beauty and stunning acting skills down south. She stars opposite Akshay Kumar in her next Bollywood project Special Chabbis and is seen doing Bhangra with the Khiladi.

From acting in Tamil and Telugu movies to dancing to Punjabi beats, Kajal has surprised everyone with her onscreen versatility.Since both Akshay and Kajal are Punjabi, the two were seen conversing in Punjabi between the shots.

Sources from the set say that she was teased by Akshay for her anglicized Punjabi accent. The two shared a good laugh.

Harbhajan Singh leaps ahead

Harbhajan Singh is one of the most talented cricketers of the Indian Cricket Team. The 32 year old, however, now seems to be treading on a new career path. The cricketer has now taken to singing. He has sung a Punjabi song titled Ek Sunehaa and has posted its link on his Facebook pages and Twitter. He tweeted saying, "Watch my first song ever sung by me on youtube.. type harbhajan singh-ik suneha ..thanks alot for ur love and support guys... bless (sic)." His friends from the world of cricket Virat Kohli and Yuvraj Singh have also helped their friend in promoting his first song on the website.

However, this which seems like a song is actually a recital. This humorous poem has been composed by Sanjay Glory. Earlier the cricketer has also walked on ramps. He also let his hair loose for a modelling contract with a whiskey brand. He also participated in dance reality shows. Harbhajan thus have always had a colourful life outside cricket.

He has now also decided to produce films.

Priyanka gets livid

Priyanka Chopra, who recently unveiled the first look of her international single In My City, commented on the on-going controversy over Pakistan Interior Minister Rehman Malik asking India to provide security to superstar Shah Rukh Khan.

She commented, "I believe people often use celebrities to advance their propagandas. Celebrities have become a soft target nowadays."

In one of the question answer segment at an event, when a senior reporter asked her about Shah Rukh Khan's article and another similar controversy about the upcoming film Kamal Haasan starrer Vishwaroop, Priyanka suddenly became very rude towards the reporter. She lashed out, "Have you read the article? You should do your home-work before coming up with such questions. Media can write and show anything to bring spice into the news and gain the TRPs."

To a query whether she would have encountered more controversies had her title being 'Khan', the visibly miffed actress retorted, saying "I think I get into controversies with 'Chopra' surname too. A big deal is being made out of nothing. You should be ashamed to even ask such a question in a country as secular as India".

Playing Daddy

Vivek Oberoi Vivek Oberoi's wife is due later this month with their first child and Vivek is thrilled. He has been part of her pregnancy since day one, accompanying her on shopping trips, check-ups, tests, and even changing his schedule to be by her side at this delicate time.


Domestic bliss: Vivek Oberoi

Busy bee

Shraddha Kapoor had a very busy evening recently. She had to attend her aunt Padmini Kolhapure's premiere of Maaee, Mohit Suri and Udita Goswami's wedding reception, and attend a photo-shoot for an endorsement. She could not excuse herself from any engagement and managed them all.

Sudhir feels Kamal's pain

Filmmaker Sudhir Mishra, who faced a similar situation for his critically-acclaimed film Dharavi in 1992, says that he understands Kamal Haasan's pain.

"I can feel Kamal Hasan's pain. The same thing happened to my film Dharavi in 1992. In those days Dharavi got a unheard of (for parallel cinema) 6 theatre release. It was pulled out of cinemas in a week," he said.

As a result, he didn't get to make a film for four years. "After Dharavi, I didn't get to make a film for four years till my brothers Amit Khanna and Mahesh Bhatt produced Is Raat ki Subah Naheen. That's why we should all stand alongside Kamal. It could be your turn tomorrow," he added.

chatter box
Comedy for Tusshar

Tusshar Kapoor Tusshar Kapoor is one of the many stars to enter the small screen and be a judge on a TV show. Having dabbled in comedy in numerous films, Tusshar is now looking forward to Nautanki—The Comedy Theatre on Colors.

How different will Nautanki be from Comedy Circus?

This is a new format which brings the broadway style theatre on TV. You will see an amalgamation of TV, film and theatre actors together and this combination with magical sets will set us apart.

It's your debut on TV as judge. How difficult or easy was it for you to decide to do a TV show?

It feels superb. I have always been excited about going to reality shows to promote my films and now to be a permanent judge on a show is different, commercial yet breaks the clutter. Nautanki is in my zone which is what appeals to me.

What do you think will you take away from the show?

I have not done theatre, only cinema. So this broadway theatre like experience will be something for me to learn. All these things make it really exciting for me.

You have done all kinds of comedy on screen. What kind of comedy do you like personally?

I like all kinds of comedy but my favourite is the commercial messy kind. I don't like comedy that appeal to certain section of society. I think Mehmood saab, Johny Lever style of that the common man loves. I think Nautanki is such a comedy show that everyone will enjoy.

Do you see yourself doing more TV in the future or is this a one off thing?

I would love to do more TV projects. I took this on as my film schedule matched and I have to shoot once a week so it's cool.

More of drama

Aamir Ali The buzz is that in an attempt to garner better TRPs, Rajshri Productions' has signed Aamir Ali as a parallel lead in Jhilmil Sitaaron Ka Aangan Hoga on Sahara One. The audiences can expect major drama on the show after Aakash's (Pankaj Tewari) death. Aamir earlier got fame through Rajshri's hit show Woh Rehne Waali Mehlon Ki. Aamir currently is doing FIR and Hongey Judaa Na Hum.

Kushal, Elena eliminated

Kushal Tandon and Elena Boeva After being in the bottom two for a while, finally Kushal Tandon and Elena Boeva have been eliminated from Star Plus'dance reality show, Nach Baliye season 5. The duo didn't get votes and their scores too have been low in the last two weeks.




Exit point: Kushal Tandon and Elena Boeva

Family support

Drashti Dhami, aka Madhu of Madhubala, is the sister-in-law of Suhasi Dhami. So, recently she went on the sets of Nach Baliye to support her brother Jaisheel and her bhabi. 

Nigaar Khan Nigaar makes an entry

Sony's Hongey Judaa Na Hum will soon see a change of pace. The story will soon take a leap of three months wherein Muskaan (Aamna Sharif) and Rohan (Raqesh Vashisth) will be seen married. Later, sexy Nigaar Khan will enter as a woman stuck in a marriage with an old man, and will woo Rohan. 

Grand comeback for Nandish

Rumours are that Nandish Sandhu aka Aditya in Phir Subah Hogi has walked out of the show. Apparently he wasn't happy with his role and the late time slot of the show which is why the TRPs fell. But the news is that the story track has changed and soon he will be back on the show as currently the makers are keeping his absence a mystery and he will enter in a grand fashion. Let's see!

Astro turf
p Khurrana

ARIES: The Emperor gets you in touch with you leadership qualities. Today your best approach is not to confront people but to go about your own tasks with great dedication. Tarot message: Use your judgments and be firm in extracting a commitment. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 29

TAURUS: The third eye of Lord Shiva opens to instigate a major transformation. You have a renewed sense of enthusiasm in projects that means a lot to you. A good day to spend with your friends. Tarot message: Do not leave things up to chance. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 32

GEMINI: The Moon takes you through a difficult Karmic situation today. Important issues come to light before 4 pm. You must address them even though there is a dark side to them. Tarot message: Try to be active in catching financial opportunities. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 47

CANCER: You draw The Ace of Cups which brings beauty, pleasure and happiness. Subtle pressure within the organization or on friends seem necessary to get things done. Tarot message: Remember it is the thought that counts and not the price tag. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 45

LEO: The Lovers inspire you to climb new heights and actualize creative ideas. Spending money or saving money could be to-day's dilemma. Tarot message: It is best to get a clear perspective and balance your energy before making important decisions. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 51

VIRGO: You make an impact and shine like The Star. You will take the lead today; set the pace and control the emotional agenda. Distant news brings cheerfulness. Tarot message: Yet work could pose certain minor difficulties but don't worry. Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 33

LIBRA:The Wheel of Fortune spins in some good fortune. Today you are capable of handling more than two situations at the same time. A partner will be a stabilizing influence. Tarot message: Be sure of involving yourself as much as possible in new project. Lucky colour: Burgundy. Magic number: 58

SCORPIO: The Priests usher in a pure, exalted and gracious influence. You are in a confused situation where what you want to do is not in sync with what you've been taught. Tarot message: Try to relax in the middle of the day and put your cares to one side. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 61

SAGITTARIUS: Nine Golden Cups greets you with happiness. After an active night, you might appreciate a peaceful day. You're in a position to stir things up but be very careful. Tarot message: You will be happier if you retain the fruit of your hard work. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 27

CAPRICORN: The Queen of Wands allows you to achieve professional success with a calm authority. You can blend logic and intuition to come up with new, creative directions. Tarot message: Dare to accomplish those tasks which normally take up a lot of time. Lucky colour: Rainbow pastels. Magic number: 39

AQUARIUS: The Queen of Swords brings a mental clarity and perspective in a chaotic situation. You work best with people who share a common vision. You focus on what you want. Tarot message: Take care of interests and portfolios of your work. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 42

PISCES: Three Wands, representing the universal that is Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh, greet you today. You are able to establish your business and expand in new directions. Tarot message: Do not play into the hands of a shrewd set of colleagues. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 34

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is February 3...

You will make efforts to improve your family bonding. Progress of your children will make you happy. It is not a good time for money matters, so keep a check on your spending. You will enjoy moderate health.

You'll realise that there's a hostile, tense atmosphere. Don't worry; act normal. You're highly practical and prefer finding ways to complete tasks as quickly and efficiently as possible. In your quiet moments, you let your imagination run wild. Friends are anxious to spend time with you. Instead of staying buried at work, enjoy some fun time with your nearest and dearest. Going to the movies can replenish your energy. You'll be able to devote some time to a new hobby which will eventually become lucrative. Unemployed people are encouraged to be pro-active. Lounging on the sofa will not help them.

If you address an emotional appeal, a once-damaged relationship can once again flourish. Wisdom directs you to construct an open doorway instead of a barricade. If you are still unable to fully open your arms, you can still be more giving and forthright. You will be in a celebratory mood and make plans for the upcoming festivities. With your work under control and a secure financial situation, you will enjoy the holiday season in the company of your family and friends. The married ones will feel that they are once again in love and share delightful moments with their mate. Your financial position will be good. You'll work hard in the beginning, but by the middle of the year, all your enthusiasm will fade. So take care and work hard to get the benefit out of your efforts. However, speculation in the stock market will not prove much beneficial and you should not be tempted even if you get an inside tip. Some of you will have health problems that will require you to take rest for a few days during March. Therefore you should observe due precautions and focus on your health.

You are likely to be the cause of a violent reaction. You better pay attention to everything you say. Be prepared to be understanding. Learn how to modify your opinions. The situation will slowly evolve towards a happy ending. You will realize your career goals; work hard for great results. Moderate results are to be expected regarding personal life. Do you long to break free from a restrictive arrangement? Stay put; this is no time to go solo.

Mood: Very realistic.
Compatible signs: Virgo, Capricorn, Leo.
Lucky colours: Rose pink, blue.
Lucky days: Friday.
Lucky numbers: 2, 6, 17, 21, 27.

Rakhi Sawant (February 3, 1980, Mumbai) shot to fame as an item girl opposite Govinda in Joru Ka Ghulam. Rakhi and controversies are synonymous. After she became part of Big Boss and Nach Baliye, she began to receive considerable coverage from the press. She has also won the dance reality show Yeh Hai Jalwa. Rahu and Venus are two major planets which will keep Rakhi always in bold lines.





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