CUT-ting edge
Kai Po Che for a movie’s name does not make much sense. Once you meet the three young actors — Sushant Singh, Amit Sadh and Raj Kumar Yadav — a lot makes sense…

Jasmine Singh

It is unlikely that they will sit like the ‘nice’ boys and talk to you; it is also unlikely that you can pass through without scanning them from head to toe.

And the moment you hear the name Kai Po Che and look at the guys in question, you wonder all the more. At the other end, the three lead actors of the film — Sushant Singh, Amit Sadh and Raj Kumar Yadav — are living the words each day. In Chandigarh for the promotion of their upcoming movie Kai Po Che, which has been directed by Abhishek Kapoor and produced by UTV Motion Pictures, the three musketeers turn the tables on you with their crazy humour, which can be infectious if you don’t ask them to cut it!

Character calling

Sushant, Amit and Raj are giving interviews everyday, but it is only recently that they came out of their characters. Says Amit, “We did a two-month workshop where we worked on our dialect, got into the character and worked on the bond between the three friends.” Sushant, the popular face of television, feels this is the only way an actor approaches a character, “You have to live in the character and with the character all the time. It takes a long time to come out of it.” Raj, of Ragini MMS fame, with a course in FTI Pune) to boast of, gives himself to the director and pours himself into the character as well.

Actors always

While some stop to say ‘hey these are the TV guys’, others don’t understand what made Sushant and Amit leave television, but for the two actors this is not a mathematical equation that is difficult to understand. “We are only actors; neither from TV nor films, we are just actors,” shares Amit. It is about something more here — do the dare! “Exactly,” says Sushant, he knows what’s coming! “Television gives money as well as fame and after a few years a lot of comfort, which the actors get used to. I guess we had the guts to leave it and go for something bigger,” offers Sushant, who has his hands full with a number of projects in his kitty.

Many mistakes

Kai Po Che is based on Chetan Bhagat’s novel 3 Mistakes Of My Life, which makes it mandatory to quiz the actors on the mistakes they have made in their life. You don’t have to follow the chronological order! Amit takes the lead. He has done his quota of mistakes, but…”I call them learning experiences. I am here because of the tough time I had to go through; it has prepared me for better times.” Raj on the other hand has been lucky. “I haven’t made any mistake that has turned my life or something. I am blessed that god has a fantastic plan for me.” Sushant has his own set, “Earlier I wouldn’t pay any heed to them but now I don’t commit the same mistakes, rather I learn from them.”

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Art for art’s sake
Artists have a different world view. It is more than apparent in the works of Anjolie Ela Menon
Amarjot Kaur

Idea, they say, is a blueprint of every masterpiece. And when it chases a lineage that cultivates a trend, it moulds into an indigenous expression of ‘modernisation’ that for long struggles to emerge from the furnace of individuality. The Lalit Kala Akademi, in its endeavour to celebrate the 100th birth anniversary of Amrita Sher-Gil, who was the first Indian female to pursue contemporary art, beckons the stalwarts of Indian progressive art-Anjolie Ela Menon and S Kalidas at Government Museum and Art Gallery, Sector 10.

Aesthetic taste

In his attempt to trace the roots of independent India’s advent towards modern art, S Kalidas, presents a historical display of art that traces the metamorphosis of his father, Jagdish Swaminathan (1928-1994), from a left-wing political radical to an equally radical artist-critic.

While engaging in the brown study of his father’s intellectual and political escapades, which date way back to the early 50s, Kalidas begins, “Jagdish Swaminathan or Swami, as he was fondly referred to, was essentially from a communist cadre. His works as an artist were best seen in the recent exhibition, Transits of a Wholetimer, a time capsule from my father’s archives.”

Kalidas, who is an art critic, writer and director of the J Swaminathan Foundation, adds, “Swaminathan was fond of quoting Mahatma Gandhi’s famous saying ‘My life is an indivisible whole’. So in his work too, he completed the circle as it were, by returning to doing the kind of work at the end of his life that he had started out doing in the early 1960s.” On the occasion, Kalidas presented examples of his later paintings from the two most well-known stylistic periods of his life-The Bird Tree Mountain series and the Tribal/Folk inspired abstracts, including tantra art and yoni paintings. The presentation also showcased vignettes from his autobiographical notes, sketches, photographs, illustrations, family photographs, letters and postcards, which were written to him by his colleagues and friends.

Instinct bound

Anjolie Ela Menon
Anjolie Ela Menon

Hail the finest that India has to offer to the contemporary art, the Padma Shri awardee — Anjolie Ela Menon. “I started painting at the age of 17,” she says, while displaying a portrait of her teacher. Her genius stands more than justified as she continues to talk about over 30 of her paintings.

Needless to mention, she shares how various places across the globe have inspired her work. “I could never fit into a specific school of thought; most of my works are inspired from Modigliani and early Christian art,” she shares while adding, “My friends and I would go hitch-hiking, and I was mighty impressed with the figures.” One of her painting that elucidated vividly on Christ’s decent, saw him in black beard and dark eyes, “Christ, as I perceive him, was a man of rather strong character and I could never imagine him in blonde hair and blue eyes,” she smiles.

Her connect with the ‘crow’, which predominates most of her works was made apparent as she confesses, “You would often witness an element of necrophilia in most of my paintings. However, most of the artists are narcissists and anything that I could relate to was splashed on canvas. Perhaps that is one reason why I am a compulsive painter,” She laughs.

When questioned about nudity and its close proximity with her paintings, she quips, “I have a very old sculpture of Parvati and it is topless, so if we are talking about tradition, I think the concern stands sorted. However, I do see a difference in how a man would paint a woman. So this one time I questioned Souza, an artist and a friend, as to why his paintings of women had huge breasts? Well, to this he answered, ‘Anjoile, you have not known the women that I have!”Among many of her works were the ones that had sought a rather distinguished critical acclaim, including the Open Heart series, Mutation, Kitsch work and the Window series.

amarjot@tribunemail.com

Three cheers for Pollywood!
Punjabi movies are going houseful and the future looks even brighter…
Gurvinder Singh

It seems Pollywood is fast catching up with Bollywood as far as the support of the masses is concerned. At least going by what we are witnessing; if Murder 3 is getting attention, Punjabi movie Singh vs Kaur is not far behind.

“Singh vs Kaur is going houseful. We had five shows yesterday and all were packed, whereas Murder 3 is getting 75 per cent occupancy,” says a representative from PVR, Ludhiana.

Anupam Taak, from AJ Productions, says that Singh vs Kaur has different elements of entertainment — a bit of Punjabi rustic flavour and loads of action — therefore the audiences have liked it.

Although the renaissance of Punjabi movies started with Jee Ayaan Nu a few years back, but the sheer craze for Punjabi cinema started with Jatt and Juliet, which made people realise that Punjab can also produce quality cinema. There has been no stopping since then; most of the Punjabi movies have done well, with the high point being Carry on Jatta.

Punjabi cinema is slowly but surely gaining ground and the future definitely looks promising. “It is now an industry to reckon with,” says Atul Kumar, a Punjabi movie buff. “Punjabi movies have done well and now we can expect good cinema in the future as well,” he adds.

“A lot depends on the content of the movies and this has been the strong point of Punjabi movies, so the movies are doing well. The content of some of the forthcoming movies is also good,” says Anupam, another avid follower of Punjabi movies.

“Even those people who used to make fun of Punjabi movies earlier have now become great fans. I am one among them,” says Sarabjit, a recent ‘convert’ to Punjabi movies. “It is heartening to see Punjabi cinema doing so well now. It had remained dormant for close to two decades, but now it is back with a bang,” he adds.

Right on the heel
Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world. And wedges are the right choice this season...
Serena Miglani

History repeats itself. Sounds clichéd? Yes, quite so. But going by the trends in footwear for women this season, which revive the chunky wedges and cushy platform heels of yore, one quite believes in the saying. Wedges have indeed flooded the market in numerous designs and colours.

So if you are hunting for a snug espadrille or formal footwear, don't hold yourself back. "Peep toe wedges and elevator heels are a rage nowadays; it's all about being chic with pint-sized heels," says Prabhjot Singh Makkar, Director, Chief Shoes-19, Chandigarh.

While blocky looking cone and solid square heels or stacked heels have been an all-time favourite, open toe-wedges are different and transform the look of even a simple outfit. Further, they score on the comfort factor as they allow you extra stability.

What's more, you will remain far away from aching feet as wedges distribute the weight of the body more evenly. Quite in contrast to the neck breaking high heels, platforms are a safer alternative for the everyday routine. "I prefer platforms as you feel at ease with them and moreover you are 'fashionably comfortable' wearing them," says Gurpreet Kaur, student, Department of Human Rights and Duties, PU, Chandigarh.

When it comes to exuding elegance, Raffia wedges line up against kitten heels and super flat ballerina pumps. Also the diverse cuts, shapes and sizes add to the charm. The dainty footwear can be worn in ditsy, floral, itsy-bitsy fabric prints as well as glitter embellishments and studded shoes. Opt for bold harmonic colours such as purple, yellow, midnight blue, asphalt, dark green, deep red and berry shades for that trendy look. "Red is my all-time favourite when it comes to footwear; especially with the valentine season around, I cash in on red a lot," says Bhavna Sahni, student, DAV-10, Chandigarh. With summer knocking at the door, cull up on pastels shades and also the nude and flesh tones.

Here comes the best part. We have saved it for the end! Wedges don't blow a hole in your pocket and are available in the range of Rs 1000 to 1,500; check out Ronnie Grey, Sector-8, Metro Shoes-19 and 17, Chief Shoes -19, all in Chandigarh.

CELEB POINT
Searching for self
Divya Dutta

Have you ever experienced this? When someone asks you how are you and instead of saying you are fine, you actually want to share how you are really feeling--how bad the day went, what's bothering you, something that affected you, but would the other person be mentally prepared to hear something more than the expected, 'I am fine and you?' or would they even have the patience to hear you out!

Do we realise that we do it all the time ourselves? When we call up someone or just meet someone and ask the usual 'how are you', we really don't mean to ask how they actually are. It's just the way of starting a conversation and get on with the work related stuff. You can't end up sharing everything with everyone but of course we can try! Why have people and lives become so fake? Why are we losing touch with the real us, the real feelings? We are so absorbed in our duniyadaari ka vicious circle that even if we want to be genuine, it just gets lost somewhere!

Life and its competitive requirements have made us these machines conditioned to being at the right place with right (read fake) conversation, jahan hamara kaam banta! Who really cares what's going on inside you? They just come and do what is expected. They shake your hand, not your heart at all!

I was at some bigwig's cremation and saw these people coming with folded hands. Barring a few, the others came just to mark themselves present. Seen at the right place, at the right time!

I was watching this reality show on television and I could make out that the judges and participants were smiling for the camera. It looked like such a put on, which was still okay. The scary thought is that we are so used to flashing false ones. We have lost touch with ourselves, we forgot what truly makes us happy, we forgot one very important person in the entire rush to catch up with life is me. Try asking yourself someday in the mirror, 'hey, how are you doing?' And try really meaning it! Trust me, you will be surprised by your own reply to yourself!

Try asking a person you care for and haven't spoken for long, how they are doing and have the patience to really hear them out. Trust me they will feel your genuineness just as they sense your fakeness. We all know we are lying, to ourselves and others because no one is ready for reality. That glint and spark in the eyes has gone missing! What remains is a plastic smile on the lips which doesn't reach the eyes because it's disconnected from the heart!

Take a step today, for yourself and bring back a smile by holding a dear one's hand genuinely. Make them feel you care. Beyond work, beyond the need-oriented rush in life!

(Dutta is a Bollywood actor)

Luck by chance

It was a great day of excitement at McDonald's Chandigarh as the world's leading food service retailer announced the Bumper Prize winner of the Sab Lucky contest.

Navleen Kaur Khetrapal, the winner of the contest, was presented with a Chevrolet Beat car by Ruchin Khanduja, general manager (marketing) along with the restaurant team at the McDonald's restaurant.

Launched in November, the month-long promotion was conceptualised to enhance the fun experience of customers who visit McDonald's restaurantsSab lucky vouchers were given out to customers for participating in the contest and lucky consumers walked away with free McDonald's food, a Nokia Asha Phone every hour. — TNS

Stress buster
High on love
Renee Singh

Romance is still in the air. Romance, however, is not only about the love between a man and a woman, it is indeed a way of life, the way of focusing on a relationship in order to keep things healthy and beautiful. Romance is a great stress reliever, as the saying goes, ''The world loves a lover'', we just need to feel love within us and to share that love around us. Love begins with loving ourselves. We can't give to others what we can't give to ourselves, so whether we are in a relationship or single, in a family or not, love is just around us.

CELEBRATIONS

Celebrations are a great de-stressor, whether it's a birthday we are celebrating, a marriage or any other special occasion. We can always find a special loving relationship to celebrate. Feeling alive is a very special feeling, but having something in particular to celebrate gives life that extra spark, just that ''something special'' feel. Cupid of course has a great part to play as a stress reliever and let's believe that love is the best thing that can happen in someone's life, something leading to a constant state of happiness.

BEING HAPPY

There are many ways to make us happy. Sometimes when people are stressed and busy, it's difficult to know what technique will pay off the most.

ENJOY SIMPLE PLEASURES

A sunny day, a yummy dessert, a warm bath may not bring lasting happiness, but it's a great way to put you in a good mood. Increasing optimism and investing more time and energy in relationships. Simple pleasures show immediate results.

Listen to your favourite song and your mood picks up immediately. Romantic songs generally have a way of enhancing our mood as love is perhaps that one single emotion that every generation responds too with equal fervour be it a child, a grown up or an elderly person. We all look for love and rejoice in the feeling, so allow yourself the pleasure of indulgence.

(Renee is a Chandigarh-based psychotherapist)

Master Chef
Vegan vagaries
Kandla Nijhowne

Often, the addition of a particular spice or flavour can take a dish to a new level, magically transforming its essential taste. Culinary books will narrate tales of many such vegan vagaries where a vegetable morphs in some quirky, unpredictable way into a 'meat' flavoured creation! The succulence of fresh mushrooms along with their distinct, earthy flavour contribute wonderfully to this innovative baked loaf. Don't let the list of ingredients daunt you. It will be an effort well rewarded! Serve it thickly sliced with a fresh minty salad for a delightful meal. You can also cut small squares of the sliced loaf and dish it out as a starter, accompanied by a chutney.

Rice and mushroom loaf

2 tbsp oil
250 gm mushrooms
1 cup walnuts and cashews, toasted
1 medium sized onion
3-4 cloves garlic
2 cups cooked brown rice
1½ tsp dried mixed herbs
4 eggs, lightly beaten
1 cup grated cheese
1 cup paneer, crumbled
1 tsp salt
½ tsp freshly ground pepper

Method

Prepare a loaf-tin by greasing, dusting and lining it with paper.
Finely chop the mushrooms, onion and garlic.
Coarsely chop the nuts. Keep aside.
Pre-heat the oven to 375 degrees F (180 C)
In a heavy pan, add oil and cook the onion and garlic till soft and translucent.
Tip in the mushrooms and cook further, adding some salt and pepper.
Transfer the mixture into a wide bowl and allow it to cool somewhat.
Stir in the rice, chopped nuts, herbs, eggs and paneer.
Check and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Spread mixture in prepared loaf tin and bake until golden brown and firm to the touch (about 1 hour).
Let it cool in the tin for about 20 minutes. Using the lining paper, lift the loaf out of the tin and onto a cutting board.
Slice into 1½ " thick pieces. Serve hot or warm.

(Nijhowne is a Chandigarh-based culinary expert)

TRENDSETTER
Street smart

Following trends and being in tune with what is latest has become easy now. So, fashion as a profession is much in demand. A student of fashion and design at INIFD, Deepak Bajaj is all raring to go in this field…

Deepak Bajaj
Deepak Bajaj

Your sense of style?

Being cool and fashionable from top-to-toe is my sense of style. It should not be understated, or over-the-top!

Latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories?

A fast-track watch in orange and dark brown colour.

Brand crazy or street pick-up?

I love to experiment and coordinate with street pick-ups.

Who would be your style icon?

Nikhil Chennapa, a VJ And now DJ too.

Who do you think is the worst-dressed celebrity?

Vidya Balan.

Which look would your prefer - sporty, chic or glamorous?

The latter two — glamorous and chic!

One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension…

Wearing shimmery clothes for formal occasions!

Your take on accessories?

I am totally an accessory person and can carry off bracelets and chains quite happily!

Given a choice, which designer would you like to be dressed by?

It has to be Rohit Bal.

What gives you a high on the confidence level?

When I am happy with the way I am looking and have friends around me, it makes me feel good and naturally confident.

— As told to Poonam Bindra

star track
B-town's food habits…
Bollywood stars stay in shape but they love their food too. We tell you the food habits and secrets of some of the stars…

Tried and tested

Saif Ali Khan: He has drastically altered his eating preferences and become more health conscious than Kareena Kapoor. He has learnt how to savour food. He has quit drinking and smoking too. With Kareena, he loves trying out local delicacies of the places they visit. He loves Chinese food.

Chinese checkers: Saif Ali Khan

Food for thought

Kareena Kapoor Khan: She made healthy eating fashionable and trendy by losing weight for Tashan. She loves having salads with every meal, curd with fruits and Italian is her preferred cuisine. She also enjoys local delicacies during holidays and shooting schedules.

Health conscious: Kareena Kapoor Khan

Three bags full!

Katrina Kaif: She loves kebabs and curries, especially at Salman Khan's place. Her comfort food is curd and rice. She used to follow a micro-organic diet. She loves ice-creams and fattening, sugary Cinnabon buns too and can eat three at a time.

Sugar sweet: Katrina Kaif 

Coffee and conversations

Priyanka Chopra: The metabolically-blessed actress loves gorging on ghar ka khana (Punjabi) and all the junk food in the world like pizzas and burgers. Looking at her size, one would not believe the amount of food she likes to eat! She loves coffee too.

Home grown: Priyanka Chopra

Slice of Italy

Sonam Kapoor: She loves indulging in fried and heavy Punjabi and Sindhi food, including meat delicacies. She even bakes cakes and cupcakes for her friends on birthdays! Also, she loves chocolate dishes and cannot do without coffee. She loves Italian food.

Food chain: Sonam Kapoor

Zooming off... Soha Ali Khan

Soha Ali Khan was shooting with Tigmanshu Dhulia, for Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster Returns, when the director told her about Bullet Raja and how the script could suit Saif Ai Khan. So Soha arranged a meeting between her brother and the filmmaker and that is how Bullet Raja materialised and shooting is nearly complete now.

Sister concern: Soha Ali Khan

How he met his lady love

John Abraham clears the air on how he met his ladylove Priya Runchal. She is a banker and she was in India to work at the World Bank in Mumbai for a short while. So John met her through common friends. She started working out at the same gym as John in Bandra, suburban Mumbai, much later. They will get married but not anytime soon. Rishi Kapoor

The negative side

Rishi Kapoor has now got a penchant for playing negative mafia characters. After his wicked turn in Agneepath, he will now play Dawood Ibrahim in Nikhil Adwani's upcoming film. Irrfan and Arjun Rampal also star in this movie. Currently, Akshay Kumar is playing Dawood Ibrahim in Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai 2.


Role reversal: Rishi Kapoor

Kangna Ranaut On a shooting spree

Kangna plays a female gangster and rural outlaw in Revolver Rani, directed by Sai Kabir. So she is moving around with a fake gun these days to prepare for her role. It is an out-and-out action film and she is getting used to handling the gun. Shooting begins in March.

Action replay: Kangna Ranaut

The Kite runner Barbara Mori in a still from Kites

Barbara Mori of Kites and Hrithik Roshan fame, will resurface on Indian television, after disappearing post the release of Kites. She has taken part in a travel show hosted by VJ Archana Vijay. Mori's segment was shot in South Africa. So she will not be in India to promote it but it will be nice to see her on television.

Gap year: Barbara Mori in a still from Kites

chatter box
Bhansali's grand TV Debut

Acclaimed filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali will ignite the television screen with a classic love story based on the iconic Gujarati novel Saraswtichandra that debuts on Star Plus this February. Bhansali adds a Midas touch to Saraswatichandra and Kumud's love story with his signature style.

The ace filmmaker, credited for creating memorable characters in his epic love stories, will replicate his magic through a modern day portrayal of Saraswatichandra and Kumud. The show will feature television heartthrob Gautam Rode as the multi-layered Saraswatichandra while Jennifer Winget plays the role of Kumud with her charismatic screen presence. Actors Monica Bedi and Chetan Pandit will also play pivotal parts in the show. While Sanjay Leela Bhansali is also the creative director, Arvind Babbal will be the series director for the show. Star Plus' viewers can expect to see a passionate and emotional love story wrapped in stylised production details, elaborate sets, charming colours, butter-soft cinematography and well-directed story-telling.

"With Saraswatichandra we are celebrating romance on the channel, packaged in a never-seen-before format that matches the splendour and glory of cinema. We are delighted to work with renowned filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali who has created cinematic masterpieces. Sarwastichandra promises to mesmerise audiences with(L-R) Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Jennifer Winget, Rani Mukherjee & Gautam Rode intense passionate love story set against the backdrop of breath taking sets." said Nachiket Pantvaidya, general manager, Star Plus.

Saraswatichandra will set a new benchmark for Indian television with its majestic set featuring a lavish haveli, pristine lakes and sprawling gardens. The show has also been extensively shot at architectural marvels of Dubai and will feature some of the city's renowned landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa.

(L-R) Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Jennifer Winget, Rani Mukherjee & Gautam Rode

Aada Khan Connecting people

Adaa Khan aka Amrit from Rajan Shahi's Amrit Manthan is always on the phone. Her colleagues on the set tease her about her over use of the phone and chatting non-stop. She takes it sportingly though she knows that this is the only way of staying in touch with people.

networking: Aada Khan

A still from Saath Nibhana Saathiya Coming up

This week on Saath Nibhana Saathiya, Gopi asks Rashi to donate all the jewelry she got for Vansh to an NGO. To save herself, she spreads a rumour which Gopi finds out. Later, Rashi becomes a victim of her own deed and has to milk the cow that the family gets.

A still from Saath Nibhana Saathiya

Top shot

Jay Bhanushali and Mahhi Vij who were hailed as contenders for the finale of Nach Baliye have been raising the bar with each act. After the hilarious act mimicking Sunny and Bobby Deol they had the audiences in splits. Later, they got high scores for the Indian act.

New beginning

Rajev Paul has decided to move ahead in life and apparently will be renovating his house soon. His house will now be spruced up to look like a bachelor's pad.

Love all

Barun Sobti
Barun Sobti

Television actor Barun Sobti has only hadone relationship since school . In an interview, he reveals some interesting things about his wife Pashmeen and himself.

What was the first quality that attracted you to her?

The first thing I noticed about her was her looks, but as I began to know her, I saw that she's a simple person. We are quiet similar.

What is the one thing that you dislike in her?

I don't think I want to say anything. (Laughs).

What are you insecure about in this relationship?

We don't have anything to be insecure about. We are simple people who wish to lead a normal life. We don't want to be the richest or the best looking couple. Pashmeen, in fact, knows me too well.

Out of the two who is likely to pick a fight first?

Things are so casual between us that we don't any 'serious' fights. They are more like roommate fights.

Next is what?

A still from Yeh Rishta Kya Kahlata Hai In Star Plus' Yeh Rishta Kya Kahlata Hai, Naksh finds out that he's being sent to a hostel and is hurt. He thinks it is his dad who decided but Akshara tells him it's her decision. Akshara, Naitik and Naksh leave for the hostel. Will Naitik change his mind?



A still from Yeh Rishta Kya Kahlata Hai

Emotional tour

Star World's One Tree Hill follows the story of two teenagers Nathan and Lucas who have very little in common apart from their passion towards basketball and the fact that they share the same father. While the legitimate son Nathan enjoys most ofA still from One Tree Hill life's privileges, Lucas has never been given a chance let alone acceptance from his father. Watch how the conflicts between the brothers grow as the show progresses. Get prepared to watch the story of two half-brothers and their conflicts packed with an avalanche of emotions. One Tree Hill, seasons 1-9, start February 27 Monday to Friday at 10pm.

A still from One Tree Hill

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Conditions at home will be pleasant enough. Do not speculate. It's critical to have a balanced lifestyle. Court witness goes in your favour. Health problem will not bother you. Tarot message: You need to act for yourself and no one else. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 28

TAURUS: If there is work to be done and you feel like doing it, go right ahead. Household chores can be handled efficiently. You have more freedom at workplace. Tarot message: Focus on your goals and don't let temporary setbacks affect you. Lucky colour: Violet. Magic number: 36

GEMINI: Today is the day to do something for your pleasure. Do all in your power to get agreements settled with your co-workers. A close rapport may be developing between you and a colleague. Tarot message: Don't be dismissive of advice from youth. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 62

CANCER: Dreaming big? This is the time to take the first step as many of you have been working constantly at it. Teamwork is the keynote of the day. Tarot message: You will be happier if you retain the fruits of your hardwork. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 56

LEO: The crowning fulfillment of gaining recognition will arrive soon. Stay focused on personal vision as you take the last steps to reach a journey's end. Tarot message: Translate your efforts into professional achievements. Lucky colour: Bottle-green. Magic number: 59

VIRGO: Like a game of snakes and ladders, you should step back and retrace your steps. Get on with any job that is at hand. A secret love affair will bring you added pleasure. Tarot message: It is no longer necessary to take risks. Lucky colour: Rust. Magic number: 44

LIBRA:The Page of Swords reveals it is a good time to take care of precious details. You are in for a mixed day. As the day progresses, you will feel more comfortable at home. Tarot message: Avoid situations that may turn nasty. Lucky colour: Blue. Magic number: 49

SCORPIO: Searching for a soul-mate? You will be able to make the right connection effortlessly with the added assistance of a dash of intuition and trust. All in all it is an interesting and stimulating day. Tarot message: Trust your heart and intuition. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 61

SAGITTARIUS: The doorway to profound knowledge and insight will open through a wise acquaintance today. Love blossoms at the workplace. Friends will be helpful. Tarot message: Do not let anyone take advantage of you. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 31

CAPRICORN: This can be a day that starts calmly and uneventfully, lulling you into a false sense of security. Trusting people who have just appeared on the scene will be a foolish move. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Grey. Magic number: 27

AQUARIUS: Minding your business is a good choice today. Live and let live should be the motto currently. If a task seems overwhelming break it down into smaller, simple steps. Tarot message: Strive for perfection at work. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 38

PISCES: Life seems full of contention at the moment and it is hard to get along with others. The postponement of a certain deal can cause anxiety. Tarot message: Don't be too certain about obtaining a clearance. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 40

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is February 20...

The year is divided into sections - you will experience extreme happiness at some instances whereas some worries will keep bothering you all the time. Worries will be related to your professional as well as personal life. It is the best time to trust your capabilities and not rely on anyone for support.

The first half of the year moves at a very slow pace, which will be disturbing. But after June things will get easier and you will start getting some positive results for your efforts. And then as the year proceeds, chances of success will get better. If you are in love relationship then you are advised to be firm on what decisions you take regarding your love life. Running away from responsibilities will only add problems to your life. Indulging yourself in any argument with senior authorities will lead you to the road of problems. Therefore keep yourself calm. Nearing a full circle, the zodiac's wheel arrives at Pisces, the Fish.

Mood: Determined.

Compatible signs: Aquarius, Pisces, Taurus.

Lucky colours: Green, Purple.

Lucky days: Friday.

Lucky numbers: 8, 16, 32, 64, 88.

You share your birthday with Antakshari fame Annu Kapoor (February 20, 1956, Indore) who made his debut with the film Kaala Patthar . His career has spanned nearly 35 years during which he has done films, television serials and reality shows. Recently he was seen in Gali Gali Chor Hai as Hawaldar and in Vicky Donor, which won him much critical acclaim.





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