Grey matter, literally
A few words make all the difference and when they come from somebody as seasoned as actor Dr Mohan Agashe, the difference is huge…

Jasmine Singh

And we thought it would take us an epoch to make him say more than a few lines. It was just some words we were aiming at. And there, sipping tea, adding a little amount of sugar to the white cup he spoke…clinical psychiatrist, actor and theatre person Mohan Agashe has more words than we had expected, so many that he could address the 4th Panjab University Colloquium lecture on Cinematic Diet For Health, an event that brings him to Chandigarh.

He sits back, wanting to soak the sun, talking about a quick visit to the city during his play Aadhe Adhure last year. The words are like atoms and molecules; soon they meet to form a conversation, the one which you wouldn't want to end!

It starts with a sound, a sound that he had heard while he was a practising medico, sound that dragged him to the stage, a sound that made him crease his forehead in films…it is the sound. "It is the language of the senses. And you know why the senses of sound and image are not used…because they are free," he laughs, his sound squeezing its way out from the meshed door of the PU Guest house.

He waits; looks intently. Is he choosing his words? "If you are intellectually challenged how can you learn the language of text? In acting it is the sub-text, which is far more important because it is the content that has to be delivered. It is the harmony of intellect and emotion that is required," says Dr Agashe, every word falling in the mould. He is good at this; after all we have seen him do it for a while now. His words making stage existence real!

He stops to ask whether he is allowed to talk about the discussion Cinematic Diet For Health in advance; nonetheless he proceeds. "For us to be healthy we need good cinema, not just good Bollywood," says the actor who has been working in a lot of Marathi films, acting in a play Katkon Trikon, the story of which, he shares, leaves us to figure out the end. "Marathi films are working with new themes; they have a good control over the medium. The same is true for Bollywood as well, with some good directors giving different kind of cinema," he goes on. He doesn't want an approval; this is his territory and Dr Agashe knows it like the back of his hand! "Cinema is a tool for entertainment and business, but why should we only eat paani puri, how about some nutritious diet of cinema," he adds telling us a little secret!

"I was doing theatre till Subash Ghai pulled me out and I proved to him that one villain of Trimurti could give him a flop, which no other actors couldn't." This time his laughter is roaring. You could imagine a glass break during an oprah performance! "I am doing Ab Tak Chappan 2, the director doesn't have a choice but to take me," Dr Agashe raises his hand for a high-five. Few words were all we were expecting from him!

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Colours of romance
Director Navaniat Singh and his team — Jimmy Sheirgil, Neha Dhupia and Binnu Dhillon — share how their upcoming movie Rangeelay is a romcom with a difference…
Jasmine Singh

Who minds something new, something different, some masala…well, who minds a treat! Director Navaniat Singh's soon-to-be-released Rangeelay, starring Jimmy Sheirgil, Neha Dhupia and Binnu Dhillon, sure promises a treat! Sitting, chatting, sharing a joke doesn't come easy to the three actors and the director, who were in Chandigarh for film. It comes only after the work is done! Nods Navaniat and the actors who see the movie hit the theatres on May 16. Before that, we don't mind discussing what's on the menu and how special the treat will be.

Watch out

Rangeelay has different connotations for everyone in the cast. The director calls it a romcom while Jimmy tags it as a complete masala film. What makes it all this and more, Navaniat feels is the chemistry between Neha Dhupia and Jimmy Sheirgill. "People are making a lot of comedies these days; this one is a romantic comedy," he says. Rangeelay has Bollywood actress Neha Dhupia in the lead. Does this make the director's job difficult? "Definitely not, in fact it is far more easier, as someone coming from Bollywood will know what is expected of them in terms of a scene and as long as the actor knows what to do, the director's job is done," says Navaniat, who zeroes-in on the 'must watch out' chemistry between the lead actors.

If you are wondering you didn't find a familiar Punjab 'di' actress in Rangeelay, the director has the answer to it. "Punjabi movies are already making a mark, for it to reach outside Punjab and touch different territories it is good to take actors that people already know; Jimmy and Neha are two such names people are familiar with."

After every movie or say after every hit, does the director's responsibility increase? "Yes it does. With every hit film the audiences grow and with that the responsibility also grows," adds Navaniat.

Different take

After garnering appreciation for Special 26, actor Jimmy Sheirgill is all set with two upcoming releases Sahib Biwi and Gangster Returns and Rangeelay — one an out-and-out Bollywood (different cinema) venture and the other a complete masala. Smiles Jimmy on the mention of the difference, "I do Bollywood films because I want to explore different roles whereas in Punjabi movies I get to do what people love. Rangeelay is a masala movie and I would love to see people enjoy it."

Appreciation always comes to an actor while a producer, no matter how meticulous he or she is, has to bear the brunt but this actor-producer likes to be in front of the camera. "I don't interfere when I am producing. In both my earlier projects, Taur Mittran Di and Saadi Love Story, I didn't interfere in the script or in direction. For Rangeelay, however, I sat through the script and the entire process," shares Jimmy.

Comedy rules

For Binnu Dhillon to be different all the time is not easy; he definitely cannot repeat his punches and jokes. "The only change I can bring in with each film is in the character; accordingly I work on the body language," says Binnu, who plays a recovering agent in Rangeelay. Most of the extempore happens on the sets. "This is when creativity comes in; right in the middle of the scene sometimes you add or delete something."

Time to tell
Kurukshetra—Timeless Sanctity traces the history of this epic city
Manpriya Singh

It’s a city of mythology and mystery, of confluence of religions, of the great battle fought and the legacy it bestows. IAS officer Vijai Vardhan’s spiritual odyssey, Kurukshetra—Timeless Sanctity, puts the spotlight where it is needed the most, on the epic city of Kurukshetra.

“Somehow, the concept of spirituality has been restricted popularly to Rishikesh and Haridwar,” he compares the historical city to some of its more renowned and richer cousins, while at a book reading session at Art Portfolio-9. A place whose popularity seems to have been lost in the din of contemporary cities.

“People do come to the city of Kurukshetra. During the last solar eclipse that happened there, devotees in lakhs gathered.” He adds, “But it deserves a lot more attention than it has got. In fact, its infrastructure is a lot better than the cities of Allahabad and Varanasi.”

An incognito visit highlighted the fact that it’s a place to write home about. “If you go there, you’ll find that it still fascinates people. It’s the only place which has a confluence of four religions.” A visit to Kurukshetra, followed by many later and Vijai Vardhan knew it was a story waiting to be told to one and all.

Six years of research entailed its fair share of bottlenecks, not to forget the fine balancing act. “As a serviceman, I couldn’t spend hours in the libraries,” shares the Principal Secretary, Department of Tourism, Cultural Affairs, Archaeology and Museums, Government of Haryana.

“I’ve had my share of juggling election duties and research.” That’s not where it ends. He adds, “After six years of research and many documents, writing this book was the most difficult part. Making it concise, all the more.” The book chronologically traces the land’s history and comes replete with ample illustrations. The ones that do justice to the subject and the place.

Coming up next is a book on Sufism, a subject which has been very dear to him. “My next book is going to be on Sufism. I will try to take a fictional take on the Sufi saints. It’s as if I live in their times. I should be finishing it in a year.” Before signing off, here’s some food for thought. “You can be a Christian and you can be a sufi. Sufism is the mystic side of each religion.” Enough to get going and start wondering.

manpriya@tribunemail.com

Honour bound

Bhajan Sopori

Pracheen Kala Kendra will honour santoor maestro Pandit Bhajan Sopori and kathak exponent Guru Shovana Narayan with the 9th Guru Madan Lal Koser–Guru Shobha Koser award for their lifetime contribution in promoting classical music and dance.

The award carrying Rs 51,000 each, a memento, a shawl and a citation, would be conferred upon them on February 20 at a glittering function to be held at Tagore Theatre, Sector 18 at 6:30 pm.

The award ceremony will be followed with performances of santoor and kathak by the honoured artists Pandit Bhajan Sopori and Guru Shovana Narayan.

A living legend and a musical genius par excellence, Pandit Bhajan Sopori is a performer, a composer, a teacher, a writer, a poet all rolled into one. Regarded as the cultural bridge of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and the rest of the country, Pandit Sopori is hailed as the Saint of the Santoor and the King of Strings. Pandit Sopori has led the revival of Sufism to spread the message of humanism among the masses, especially the youth.

Shovana Narayan
Shovana Narayan

Shovana Narayan is one of the foremost dancers in the annals of dance today and a name synonymous with kathak, giving it new dimensions. She is an embodiment of the great artistic and social traditions of India. Yet at the same time, she is a visionary who has amalgamated the best of both the worlds, the past and the present. Bestowed with natural beauty, talent and grace, Shovana, one of the leading disciples of the maestro Pt Birju Maharaj. She was initiated into kathak as a child at the age of four, by the well-known dancer-actress of yesteryear, Sadhana Bose in Kolkata and by Guru Kundanlal in Mumbai.

Her style represents a crystallisation of combined techniques acquired from the sophisticated elegance of the Lucknow gharana and the rhythmic precision of the Jaipur school. — TNS

Step-up and dance
Tanya Malhotra

Star Plus brings to you yet another blockbuster reality TV show India’s Dancing Superstar. And guess what, age, form or style is no bar when it comes to this particular show! What’s more? Individual as well as groups can register themselves.

After auditioning people from across the country, the creative team of Star Plus finally landed in Chandigarh. The auditions began on Sunday at DC Montessori School and the aspiring participants from various states, including Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh poured in abundance.

Needless to say, the creative team of ‘India’s Dancing Superstar’ was snowed under a whooping number of 2,500 contestants who registered themselves for the audition.

When asked about how the city had responded so far, a member of the creative team said, “We wanted to nurture the new within the old, so we introduced no age bar and no dance form bar system this time. The kids here gave us a pleasant surprise.” With a bright smile, she quipped, “At the age of five, we could only ring around the roses.”

The craze for lyrical hip-hop and fancy freestyle was unmistakably perceivable among the youngsters. The bhangra groups also displayed the true colours of Punjab. We talked to a few dance enthusiasts.

“Our daughter has been learning kathak for the last three years from Pracheen Kala Kendra,” said Dr Deepak, a resident of sec-36 Chandigarh.

“It conjured up the memories of my childhood when I first won a solo dance competition in school. It soon became my p assion and now dance is my life”, said Max, another participant. “I am a professional hip-hop dancer and I wish to become a renowned choreographer through this platform,” he added. The audition will take place in 18 cities across the country. One of the Bollywood’s most celebrated choreographers, Geeta Kapur, will be judging the talented contestants. 

Par Excellence
Short Game
Dial the length of the swing with the body
Jesse Grewal

The golf swing is powered by three levers– the body, the arms and the wrists. The biggest lever is the body followed by the arms and the smallest being the wrists. When we hit a full shot all three levers are used to their optimum without losing directional control. Imagine a ship with three engines. If the ship is to move at full speed, all three engines would have to be put on. On the other hand if it had to go slow only one engine would be used.

Similarly, if all three levers were to be used in the swing for the short game we would not be able to control the speed. When we are close to the hole, as we are while putting, we only use the motion of the shoulders. For the short chip shots the main lever for the backswing should be the shoulders too. The amount of turning of the shoulders controls the length of the backswing which in turn controls the distance the ball flies. The forward swing is done by the turning of the hips towards the target.

As we go further from the hole, a second lever is required. This could be either the hinging of the wrists or the lifting of the arms. Generally the hinging of the wrists is more commonly used but some golfers prefer not to use the wrists and in turn fold the right elbow (for right handed golfers) and lift their arms upwards. The hinging of the wrists creates a steeper angle of approach and should be used when we need a descending blow especially from a bad lie or thick grass.

While the levers of the wrists and the arms work more like the gears of a car, the body works more like the engine. Therefore the amount we use the engine would govern the output, which would therefore be the amount of coiling and uncoiling of the body in the golf swing. The bigger muscles found in the body are more stable under pressure and less affected by adrenaline. The small muscles in the upper arm and forearm get affected by adrenaline and do not make a repeatable action under pressure. Therefore a single lever body action is more reliable in crunch situations.

(Grewal has coached several national champions and professionals apart from being coach of the Indian golf team for the Eisenhower Cup (World Cup) in 2008. He is currently the Director of National Golf Academy of India and CGA Hero Honda Golf Academy. If you have any queries get in touch with him at parexcellence@tribunemail.com)

GET PHYSICAL
Workable solutions
Vishal Thukral

Are you a fitness freak but have no time to hit the gym? Exercising at home is an attractive option offering convenience as well as a way to save time. The real issue is how to create effective home workouts when you don't have much space or equipment. You do have to be creative if you exercise at home, but there are a wide range of effective and accessible cardio exercises you can do to get in shape. Below are some of cardio exercises you can do anytime, anywhere.

Jogging in place

Jogging is a great exercise for your heart. You can jog in place at home while watching TV or listening to music. The only equipment you will require is a good pair of shoes to eliminate any stress to your legs. Jogging in place doesn't require any special moves to remember. It doesn't require a large space to do it in. You can jog in place anywhere provided you have a little leg room. There's no difference between regular jogging and jogging in place. Your muscles are performing the same moves, and so you burn the calories at a reasonable pace. As an aerobic exercise, jogging in place has all of the same benefits as any other aerobic exercise.

Squat jumps

Squat Jacks are a plyometric exercise that burn calories and tone up the thighs fast. Squat jumps will raise the heart rate and burn calories. This exercise is high impact exercise and requires strong joints.

Stand with your legs slightly apart and arms by your sides. Pull your shoulder blades down and engage your abdominal/core muscles to brace your spine. Shift your hips back and down. Continue to lower yourself until you feel your heels about to lift off the floor. Try to maintain a flat back by bending forward at the hips. Keep your head directly facing forward and position your arms where they offer the greatest degree of balance support. With only a very brief pause at the bottom of your downward phase, explode up through your lower body, fully extending your hips, knees and ankles. As you jump into the air, try to keep your feet level with each other and parallel with the floor.

The most important components of the landing phase are correct foot position and avoiding excessive forward movement in your lower extremity, which places additional stress on your knees. Try to land softly on the mid-foot, rolling into the heels. Always push your hips back and down to absorb the impact of landing. Do not lock out your knees on your landing. Land with your trunk slightly forward, head aligned with your spine and back rigid or flat.

Diet tip

Just say no to starches. Foods like pasta, white bread and potatoes make you fat. If you must have pasta, make yours whole-wheat. Same goes for bread, and swap white potatoes for sweet potatoes.

(Thukral is a Chandigarh-based aerobic fitness trainer)

Flavours of the Orient
Gurvinder Singh

Chinese delights at Orient Blade Hold the chopsticks and let the magic from the land of the ‘Orient’ subsume you. The Schezwan Food Festival at Orient Blade, Park Plaza, has enough for the lovers of the Chinese cuisine and is sure to delight the foodie in you. “We are presenting delicacies from the Sinchuan region of China, which is widely known for its spicy and delicious food,” says Rajinder Sareen, executive chef at Park Plaza.

Starting with okra, Sichuan potato, dimsums, fried fish fingers and soups, the main course unveils lobsters, prawns, fish, chicken, lamb and pork tossed, turned and cooked in Chinese spices.




Chinese delights at Orient Blade
Photo: Inderjeet Verma

Coming soon
Rock on

The Bella Vista and blueFROG present the Spring Music Concert, bringing the country’s best and hottest live and electronic music acts to Tricity. The concert will take place at The Bella Vista Hotel in Panchkula on February 23.

The multi-artist line-up features Blues masters, Soulmate from Shillong, Sufi-Rock singer Nasha, BlueFROG Delhi’s resident DJ Leon facing off with Soma Goa resident DJ Sasha from Russia and multi-genre acoustic musician Harpreet Singh. In addition, the concert will feature the choicest menu from The Bella Vista kitchens and a bar put together by the people at blueFROG who are known for their specialty cocktails. — TNS

Mirror image

Here’s a treat for all you Justin Timberlake fans for he is out with a brand-new hit single—Mirrors. The mid-tempo pop ballad was recently released on February 11 by RCA Records as a promotional single from the third studio album The 20/20 Experience (2013).

Well begun

The track begins with ‘triumphant—sounding synths’ and the chorus where Justin harmonises with himself via multi-tracked vocals. I think it’s a job well done and needless to say, the song has a lot of character to it. In fact, the song has a very typical Timberlake signature touch to it. I really like the song.

Aman Suraj, city- based musician

Pop up the volume

The song is a combination of Timbaland’s classic contemporary rhythmic style. However, for me, it makes more sense pertaining to its lyrics. Also, I am an avid fan of pop music; it reminds me of the pop of 80s and 90s, Mirrors has all that today’s pop song needs to have. Moreover, he has fabulous vocals.

Anil Sharma, student, Panjab University

Romantic appeal

The song is an expression of a lover about ‘realising’ that she is his ‘other half’. What better way to express love. Besides being a soulful romantic balled, the song has a lot of zing to it. I love it. I am so hooked to this song.

Reva Tyagi, MBBS Student

—As told to Amarjot Kaur

Flower power
Gurvinder Singh

Walk into any of the parties or ceremonies these days and one is greeted with flowers, for they have become ubiquitous as hair accessories. Roses, lotuses, sunflowers in cloth or crystal and in different shapes, sizes as well as colours are quite popular with girls these days.

“The trend has really picked up, especially in the last couple of months,” says Sanjay Aggarwal from a women accessories store in Ludhiana. Agrees Gurinder from another store, “Crystal and stone-studded flowers are also in these days.”

Flowers are being preferred by youngsters and grown-up women alike. Whereas women also like stone-studded or crystal flower accessories, college-going girls and teenagers like the ‘baby-touch’ hair accessories without any glitter and shine. “I just love wearing flowers in my hair. Apart from these, I even wore real flowers a couple of times,” says Nitika, a college student.

“Artificial flowers as accessories - clutchers, side-comb pins, rubber bands, bun-pins and side pins are really popular,” says Divya, a fashion design student.

star track
Bollywood inspires Edward Maya...

International music composer and performer Edward Maya says that he follows Bollywood and likes superstar Shah Rukh Khan the most. "I do follow Bollywood. I like Shah Rukh Khan the most," he told in an interview.

Shah Rukh KhanThe composer says he would love to give his music to Bollywood and even sing in a film. "I want to compose song for a Bollywood movie. I do have plans and it will be a surprise. I would like to sing in a movie. My mom loves Indian music. She liked the songs of Ra.One the most till now," he added. Edward also added that he would love to work with other Indian musicians. "I love their work. I would like to combine that work with mine. India is a great inspiration," he said. He is known for his songs Stereo Love, This is my life and Desert Rain. — IANS

Global presence: Shah Rukh Khan

Capital gain

His debut movie was based in the capital. Now VJ-turned-actor Ayushmann Khurrana is set to shift his base to the capital for Yash Raj Films' (YRF) untitled project. "I am up. All set to shift my base to Delhi for a month with my little dreams of celluloid," the 28-year-old tweeted.

Ayushmann KhurranaThe actor will be shooting with Sonam Kapoor and Rishi Kapoor for one month in Delhi for the film directed by Nupur Asthana. It is a romantic comedy about two lovers at a time of recession.

Ayushmann, who made a dream debut in Bollywood with blockbuster Vicky Donor, has signed a three-film deal with YRF — IANS
move on: Ayushmann Khurrana

End of agony

Model-actress Padma Lakshmi says she used to suffer from crushing fatigue and mood swings before she was diagnosed with endometriosis. Lakshmi, 42, who was once married to celebrated author Salman Rushdie, said specialists even told her that she would not be able to have children, even with the help of IVF. But the 42-year-old is now a proud mother to baby girl Thea Krishna, who will turn three next week. "It (endometriosis) ended up happening accidentally. I'd spent most of my life trying not to get pregnant and it was only after stopping taking birth control - because I was told that I couldn't conceive - that it happened at all.Padma Lakshmi

"I've always wanted to be a mother, but I never knew it would be so much fun and I'd enjoy it so immensely. My daughter is such great company. I would love to have another child or two," she said. — PTI

Proud mum: Padma Lakshmi

New pad for Rihanna Rihanna

R&B star Rihanna has splashed out $12 million on a new mansion. The mansion in the trendy Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles, has seven bedrooms, nine bathrooms, an outdoor BBQ area and swimming pool complete with a jacuzzi. The plush pad also has stunning views and overlooks LA. Rihanna, 24, had a record 12 number one singles and she reportedly charges USD 5 million to perform at events.

The Diamonds hitmaker was recently spotted going solo on Valentine's Day and also caused a flurry among fans by tweeting a marijuana photo. — PTI

Splash time: Rihanna

Work vs pleasure

Randeep Hooda Actor Randeep Hooda, currently doing double shifts for his upcoming movies, says he likes to ride horses when he is not working. "I love riding horses... Also spending time with friends and family is always great. It is like de-stressing yourself," said the 36-year-old. — IANS

Chill out: Randeep Hooda

Family is fun

It wasn't a romantic outing in particular for Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie this Valentine's Day, as the Hollywood star couple took their twins to the Natural History Museum. Pitt, Jolie and their four-year-old twins, Knox and Vivienne, visited the museum on February 14 in Los Angeles, accompanied by their bodyguards.

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie with kidsThe couple and their kids took a tour inside the museum. The twins were especially interested in observing microscopic specimens and playing with fossils.

According to a witness, Pitt read to Knox and explained the stuff they saw in the museum, while Jolie was with Vivienne. "Brad was walking around reading to Knox and explaining things to him," said the witness.

"Vivienne loved the butterflies and Knox was interested in the dinosaurs and giant spiders. Brad and Angelina stood back at one point and let the kids play. They were smiling and really enjoying the day. You can tell they love watching their kids learn," said the witness. — PTI

Learning curve: Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie with kids

Ground realities

Actress Jada Pinkett Smith and her husband Will Smith get their kids involved in as much charity work as possible to make them realise the importance of helping others. The 41-year-old actress' kids Jaden, 14, and Willow, 12, have showbiz careers in their own right but she and their father, the Men in Black actor, always keep their feet on the ground by making them help those in need. "One of the things we do is a lot of charity work. Willow and I are very involved with an organisation Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith that takes care of victims of human trafficking. When you expose your kids to that it gives them a sense of reality and a sense of purpose outside of themselves. Put them in circumstances where their efforts are needed to make things better," she said. "My grandmother was a community activist. I kept that particular idea alive with my family. It takes my kids out of the Hollywood bubble. And I really like that," she added. Jada also said that she is passionate about helping other women do better and creating career opportunities for them. "I come from a very creative family. We like to create opportunities for everybody. I make sure I create for women with women, very often. It's very important for me. I have seen an evolution of women. A lot of high executives today are women. But I feel there is still a lot of work to do," the actress said. — PTI

Humane side:
Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith

No haunted mansions

Actress Sonal Chauhan, who will soon be seen in 3G, says it is an unconventional horror film for Bollywood.

"3G is a horror film. But in Indian cinema, the horror films have been mostly about haunted mansions, spirits or black magic. 3G offers you horror in a different way, something that I think the Indian audience will see for the first time on screen," the 27-year-old said at the launch of the film's first look. 3G revolves around a mobile phone, and the spooky events that take place after the movie's male protagonist, essayed by Neil Nitin Mukesh, buys it.

Huge expectations

Actress Dannii Minogue says she wants to become a mother again. Minogue, 41, who gave birth to a baby boy in 2010 with former partner Kris Smith, says motherhood is the ultimate form of mentoring and feels that her son needs a sibling. "Oh my God, I would love another baby! I haven't ruled it out. There is this guilt that you feel as a mum when you have just one child; you think, 'He should have a sibling'.

"But he has his cousins — Brendan's boys, Charles, six and James, four — and lots of children his own age around him. He's OK — what will be will be," she said.

Dannii MinogueMinogue praised her parents, who loved each other and stayed together and says it gave her ridiculously high expectations of how her own life would turn out. "I couldn't imagine not having a relationship like the one my parents have. I couldn't imagine having a child and not having the same love and security my mum and dad gave each other and us.

"I just expected that for myself and I guess that was greedy, because it's rarely like that these days. But because I had those expectations, there was a big letdown when that wasn't how it worked out for me," she said. — PTI

Living dream:
Dannii Minogue

Banking on ex

Actor Ashton Kutcher is reportedly giving financial help to troubled actress Lindsay Lohan. Kutcher, who reportedly had a brief fling with Lohan in the past, feelsLindsay Lohan obligated to let Lohan treat him like her own personal cash machine.

"Ashton has always had a soft spot in his heart for her, and Lindsay totally exploits it," said a source.

"She has been asking to borrow hundreds of dollars at a time with the promise to pay him back 'in a couple of weeks.' Ashton knows he's never going to see the money again, but he's very loyal," the source added. — IANS
Money games: Lindsay Lohan

chatter box
The mysteries of nature

Melting glaciers, increasing sea levels, long and severe droughts and increase in natural disasters—these are some of the known consequences of global warming.  Discovery HD World, the 24-hour high definition (HD) channel brings all new series of I Have Seen the Earth Change, which travels around the world to showcase how climatic changes are affecting the lives of people.

The show takes viewers on an exceptional voyage to different countries like Bolivia, Australia, Mali, Canada and more. They face a formidable fight, but mankind’s capacity for adaptation shows there is still hope.

The show goes beyond the statistics and graphics, to identify people who are affected by these climatic changes. In Norway, the native Lapp people who lost their livestock due to continuous increase of temperatures and shortening of the icy season have switched to raising their herds in farms. In Egypt, Manar Ezat, the first female professor specialised in fish farming, has been advising the fish farmersA still from I Have Seen the Earth Change along the Nile delta to develop and live from this new agro-industry. Lien Tran Thi Kim from Vietnam is an agronomist-forester who has taken on a re-forestation mission in an effort to reduce the destructive effects of natural disasters.  Through testimonies and human-stories, the series inspires viewers on the affects of global changes from a local and multicultural perspective.

I Have Seen the Earth Change will premiere on Tuesday at 8 pm from February 19 on Discovery HD World.
A still from I Have Seen the Earth Change

Donning the vamp’s avatar

Thrilled with her debut on TV, Monica Bedi is much excited to essay the role of an evil step mother. However, she refuses to get tagged and maintains that everyone in this world is grey.

Monica BediWhy did you choose to do this show?

Well, Sanjay Leela Bhansali approached me with the role and that was all that it took. Also, because an accomplished filmmaker like him thought of me for this role, I knew it had to be great. Moreover, Star Plus is indeed a number one channel, so why not? I’m looking forward to the serial and let’s see what happens next.

Will you be playing the character of a vamp, a stepmother?

Bhansali films and characters are very powerful. He gives characters a meaning and depth. There’s something different in each and every character, so whatever Bhansali does stands out. As for my role, she is not a villain, because she has reasons for what she does and has show shades of grey.

Will the show follow the book?

Not really. The show is based on the novel, but its plot might change according to the taste of the audience taste. Everything works around TRP.

What about your look?

Mostly, I will be wearing saris but I will also be seen in western outfits as my character is quite glamorous. She’s a multi millionaire and a very powerful lady. 

Is it true that the set is touted to be a huge one worth Rs 3 crore?

Yes, the set is huge and lovely. There are three havelis. Also, there are different parts of a town, which will make people wonder if it’s a serial or movie.

negative shade:
Monica Bedi

Johnny says goodbye

Karan Goddwani won many hearts with his spirited role in Star Plus’, Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon. Currently, he has been wowing the masses as Johnny, a Jinn, in Jeannie Aur Juju. However, he will soon bid adieu to the role. Karan, who is a fan of Salman Khan, plays a mischievous character in the show, but Jeannie (Giaa Manek) and Vicky (Ali Asgar) wanted to get rid of him. 

As per a source, “Jeannie and Vicky will play a magic trick and trap Johnny in a photograph, thereby putting an end to his role.” But according to the creative team, Jeannie and Vicky will have magical means via which, if they wish, they can liberate Johnny from the photograph.

Karan GoddwaniSo does it mean that there is a slight chance of Karan aka Johnny resurfacing in Jeannie Aur Juju in the near future? Well, we have learnt that as of now Karan has stopped facing the camera for the project but as they say, you never know what lies in the coming days. “If the creative feel the need, he might come back,” added the same source. Karan aka Johnny’s exit episode will air on 19 February 2013.
Pulling a Houdini: Karan Goddwani

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Sacrifices made today will pay you in future. Do not start a real estate transaction. Sudden travel can disturb certain plans. BP patients: get more rest. A long-awaited issue finally gets settled. Tarot message: Assess properly before taking monetary decisions. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 60

TAURUS: “The Moon” reveals that you can stretch your relationship a bit too far. Talk to your beloved to clear a misunderstanding. Domestic issues need urgent consideration. Tarot message: A clearance can get stuck in red-tape. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 42

GEMINI: It is a day to forget worries at work. Talk to superiors and see what they can offer. Romance is likely. Uncooperative family members will throw a spanner in your life. Tarot message: You need to take things slowly; listen to your inner voice. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 62

CANCER: Today you will be in an enthusiastic frame of mind. Matters connected with the state or government agency will go smoothly. Loss through speculation is on the cards. Tarot message: Change the status quo by voicing your feelings. Lucky colour: Silver-grey. Magic number: 29

LEO: Trying to get some time for your own self can be the hardest thing today. Relax and be a little more tolerant. You will be in a mood to find fault with people who are dear to you; curb this habit. Tarot message: Follow your instinct; don’t hesitate to act accordingly. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 30

VIRGO: Teamwork is the keynote of the day. Home life will be pleasant. Older people may drum up certain problem. Check your car before you set out for a long journey. Tarot message: Draw on those inner energies and begin moving from thought to action. Lucky colour: Rusty. Magic number: 64

LIBRA: Life is not always a bed of roses. Relatives will be sensitive and difficult to get along with. Do not get involved in any land deal. Emotions have to be controlled. No pain, no gain. Tarot message: Any confrontation needs to be managed with care. Lucky colour: Royal-blue. Magic number: 59

SCORPIO: Let a project take its time. You will be happy in the company of friends. It is a good time to strengthen ties with partners. Handle property matters carefully. Tarot message: Enjoy your dreams, but be sure you don’t play tricks on yourself. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 41

SAGITTARIUS: Relax; there is no work pressure at all. Friends will be easy-going and willing to fall in love with your plans. Property matters are highlighted. A romantic alliance is likely to blossom by the evening. Tarot message: Do not let anyone take advantage of you. Lucky colour: Burgundy. Magic number: 46

CAPRICORN: It is the best day to get things done by people in power. You will get an opportunity to become a member of an important club. Family affairs run along smoothly. Tarot message: Be determined and increase your self-confidence. Lucky colour: Forest-green. Magic number: 25

AQUARIUS: A spontaneous trip is likely. Students will get down to their tasks and creative hobbies. Businessmen: expect help from clients and loan from bank. Be careful not to violate traffic. Tarot message: Win the war with honesty, not by distorting facts. Lucky colour: Cream. Magic number: 27

PISCES: Tendencies for manipulation or revenge should be controlled and contained. Believe in your own worth. Political bosses: danger looms large over the head. Tarot message: Trust your heart and intuition. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 43

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is February 19...

You will enjoy a wonderful phase this year. Apart from your health, you are going to turn the card of success in your favour in all walks of your life. Your present planetary position is indicating towards mental and physical satisfaction. You might get promoted to a higher level at your workplace. You will overcome all the troubles with ease. Relationship with all the members of the family will get stronger.

Apart from some little arguments, the environment at home will remain pleasant. The only thing that can ruin your mental peace for some time is your declining health. But, there is nothing to worry much as faster recovery is also foreseen. People who are planning to get married might meet their soul-mates.

There are chances that you might get involved in some sort of business, which will give you profits in all possible ways. You can invest and save your money safely in 2013. Co-workers, secretaries, receptionists and other people you normally take for granted, but who keep the flow of your life smooth, will be unaccountably inconsistent or simply keep you at bay.

In June, you will be more sensitive to beauty and also the feelings as well as needs of others. Attractive opportunities to grow professionally will come your way. Those with an ascendant in Cancer should avoid gossip and focus on their job, as work will be onerous and demand precision. Things are seldom as bad as they seem. When you reach the point where you feel that all hope is lost, you will be suddenly showered with good fortune. Make wise use of your lucky break when it comes! Improve your health as a feeble body weakens the mind. Be secretive about your investments and future goals. Travel programme made well in advanced might get postponed due to the health problems in the family. Loss or theft is likely if you are careless about your belongings.

Health should be given priority over social life. Financial problems ruin your ability to think constructively. Family responsibilities will mount, which will be a cause of worry. A romantic encounter will be highly exciting, but not last long. You will find yourself under spotlight when the assistance you gave to someone else is rewarded or acknowledged. Avoid conflicts. Simply ignore those who approach you for temporary loans.

Mood: Content.

Compatible signs: Pisces, Leo, Aries.

Lucky colours: Olive.

Lucky days: Tuesday.

Lucky numbers: 8, 12, 16, 23, 32.

You share your birthday with Sonu Walia (February 19, 1964, New Delhi), the winner of Miss India pageant and a model with Chandigarh connect. Khoon Bhari Maang and Aakarshan are her notable films. She has come back after a break and is busy in new productions, but her stars are not very favourable now.





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