The man, the machine
It's not only about speed, precision matters and so does the timing. Rallyists Sunny Sidhu and Vijay Parmar share that it takes this and a lot more to get the adrenaline going...
Jasmine Singh

It can be a real challenge to make him speak, to tell him to go full throttle with what's there in his mind. It can be a little unsettling to see him take measured turns in his conversation. For the rally champion Sunny Sidhu from Chandigarh is nothing like this on his turf — the rally circuit. He lets his machine accelerate to full speed and it is his 'been-there-done-that' turf that Sunny zips through the difficult terrain without calculating the risk.

Well, if the real adventure is when everybody comes back alive, this overall second position holder at the recently concluded Desert Storm 2013 is sure an adrenaline junkie who can be slow in his description about himself, but picks up pace when you spell the word motorsports!

On the track

After a more than dozen motorsport rallies to his credit, Sunny is still lured back on the track, year after year. He laughs, "Each time it is a new challenge, every route is a new route and every rally offers something new," says the rallyist who zipped to the second slot on his Mahindra Thar. Sunny started rallying at the age of 18, when he stood third on his very first attempt at SJOBA Sub Himalayan Rally in 1993. "It might sound strange, but each time after that I have looked at each rally with a new passion, interest and challenge."

Safely home

Vijay ParmarIt is a bond between him and his machine that strengthens with every leg at the rally. Let's just say some bonds with the machine didn't last long, but with Mahindra Thar it has been one helluva experience. "At the Maruti Suzuki Desert Storm 2013, I was competing against other fast cars like Toyota Hilux, Nissan Patrol, Mitsubishi Pajero, Grand Vitara and Maruti Gypsy; the biggest challenge is to get your machine back safely to the end," says Sunny, who participated in Rally Xtreme, which is all about high speed and is the toughest category of competitive rallying. The rally traversed 2,220 kilometers over the wild outback of Sardarshahar, Bikaner, Jaisalmer and Jaipur.

Money matters

Motorsport definitely gets the adrenaline pumping, but there is a price to pay for it. An expensive affair, motorsports is not easy when it comes to arranging funds. He gives a confident smile that has comes after he has posed with his navigator on the winning podium. "There are lot many companies supporting motorsports, it is not easy for the new participants to get sponsorships though," shares Sunny who will be the first rallyist from the region to compete in the Asia Pacific Rally Championship (APRC). "I will be participating in the Australia, New Zealand and Japan rounds of the APRC this year in July." He will represent India. Sunny is being sponsored by JK Tyres at this series of international championships.

Up close

Vijay Parmar from Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) definitely has a big appetite for adventure and thrill. At the age of 52, the president of Himalayan Motorsport Association (HMA), which organises the Raid De Himalaya, competed in Maruti Suzuki Desert Storm as a biker and finished second, losing it to the top slot by just 23 seconds. He rode a KTM-450 EXC in the Xtreme Moto and Quad category of the Desert Storm. He has been a champion biker and rallyist, had last competed in a motorsport event in 1994. What drew him back to the wild tracks as a competitor? “Well two reasons, one, during the last years Raid, a biker challenged me saying I knew nothing about biking, so I had to take up his challenge. The second reason is, however, personal; my father a fighter pilot was detected with Parkinson disease at the age of 54. I realised I would soon be touching 54 too, so I thought of doing this rally. This is a tribute to my father who was full of life and adventure; I bet he would be happy with the result,” he says.

“In the last stage, I fell in a well, so I lost by a close margin towards the end of the rally,” he adds.

jasmine@tribunemail.com

All about moves
Odissi dancer Meera Dass showcases the history and heritage of her home state through the magnificent dance form...
Amarjot Kaur

When movement courts momentum in a rhythmic affection, it leaves a pattern of creativity behind-a pattern called dance. Organised by the Chandigarh Administration, The Chandigarh Dance Festival at Tagore Theatre, celebrates this creative medium of art. And the second day of this four-day event beckons Meera Dass along with her troupe from the Gunjan Dance Academy, Cuttack.

Meera, who is essentially an Odissi dancer, explains her art and passion as she strikes a conversation over a cup of coffee, "Odissi dance, as the name suggests, comes from Odissa, which has a history and heritage of a distinct dimension that is extended to its temples. The dance form seeks inspiration from the sculptures in these temples, while attempting to personify the poses and expressions, which detail upon a rather copious tale of mythological connection."

While detailing upon her signature style, which is fundamentally typical of Odissi dance form, Meera says, "I like experimenting because innovation is an inevitable prerequisite for growth. So, I do experiment with fusion, however, for this festival, I am keeping it purely traditional." She adds, "I have choreographed the entire show that will feature a fast rhythmic Odissi dance. The performance will include three pure dances and two Abhinayas. We will begin with Mangla Charan that will showcase Jagannath Puri's Rath Yatra. Also, the show will feature Gotipura, a raw form of Odissi dance that emerged when the Muslims attacked temples, and women were forbidden to perform at the temples. The young boys would take to this dance form and perform acrobatic moves. We, a bunch of nine women, are performing the same."

Her solo performance will also exhibit an Abhinaya from Jayadev's Aushtapadi that narrates a tale of Radha requesting her sakhi (a friend) to initiate another meeting with Krishna. "We have performed across the globe, including US, UAE, Europe and Malaysia. Also, I have choreographed for an Odissi film, Thukul. I believe that dancing is a gift and a guru can only guide you," says Meera, who was trained by Sri Kelucharan Mohapatra and seeks inspiration from Sanjukta Panigrahi. Meera will be accompanied by Sashita Panda, Shivangi Mohapatra, Ananya Biswal, Suchitra Pratihari, Malvika Jena, Lopamudra Jena, Ritika Mandal and Sonali Mohanty.

amarjot@tribunemail.com

Lighting it up

Aurosom Madhusudhan, who is a mime artist and is popularly known as Mime Madhu, is incharge of the show of lights at the event. "I am a theatre-person but, I know the importance of lighting in a dance show. Just like for any music event to be a hit the sound should be perfect, likewise for a dance show, lighting is a very crucial element," says Madhusudhan. "He managed the design and lights of our show at the Konark Dance Festival, and he made the show come alive," says Meera.

success mantra
Punch line
Mona

Vijender Singh is a success story that rose among challenges to shine bright. This Olympic medal winner belongs to a small village, Kaluwas, in Haryana. From a humble family background, Vijender dreamt of making it big and he actually did it.

Whether it came from the movie Rocky or real-life stars Mohammad Ali and Mike Tyson, Vijender always kept his motivation high. Here's our desi Rocky sharing his take on the life's ring!

Honest hardwork

Hardwork is all that's there in one's hand and it is the only surety of success. Cycling everyday from my village to the city earlier for studies, then for training to dealing with challenges on international arena, I took recourse to hardwork each time. That was in my hands and that I did. And, it continues.

Calm confidence

There were not many opportunities that my small village offered. I could play kabaddi, wrestle or box. I chose boxing over other sports for it is more of a mental game than physical and suited me the best. There has been no looking back since. When you believe you can, the world does too. It has not been a smooth sail, I have had my share of injuries and more but I found a way to get past them and move on.

Positive planning

One's attitude determines one's path. I kept positive despite the lack of facilities, opportunities and results. I gave my best and hoped to win. Success and failure are part of life; it is God's way of testing your resolve. You fail; try once again till you make it.

Team trial

A single person cannot achieve anything, it's always teamwork. If I made it to where I am today, it is largely due to the unflinching support of my family, friends and team. They stood by me extending every possible help. They boosted my morale when my faith faltered and together we inched towards our destiny, driven by the power of our unity.

Right reasons

Dreams do come true provided you fuel them with your hardwork and grit. Boxing is mine and I live it 24X7. Diet, training and rest are essential components of it; I give them due importance each day. Be true to what you are; don't fake. Follow the path that is righteous and God will open new doors.

mona@triunemail.com

gyan zone
Mane matters
Short, asymmetric, diagonal fringes… a host of colours…just choose your hairstyle this spring season…
Gurvinder Singh

Spring is in the air even as winter is on its last legs. And coming with the new season are the latest trends, which have created a real buzz in Ludhiana markets. To match up with the clothes, hair styles are also getting swankier.

It’s time to let your hair down and sport the new colours as well as cuts for the season. “For this season, we are introducing red and violets; honey, chocolate and caramel browns in addition to baby blondes and reds,” says Yuvraj Ahluwalia, from Grace Beauty Clinic. “Overall for this season, bright strands, red, violets and subtle blues are hot,” he adds.

As for styles, one can get streaks, panels or bottom. “We are presenting the red and violets with short fringes for the crispier look,” he says. For the uninitiated, panels are all about a small section of hair that is coloured and remains hidden until you flip the hair to reveal the colour.

“For the new season, short, asymmetric and diagonal fringes are in with honey and chocolate hair colours,” says Yuvraj. ‘Messy’ look is also likely to catch up this season, along with soft curls, that do not need styling with a comb. “Bangs – full fringes with softer colours - are pretty much in with the back blending into the violets and other colours,” he adds.

 Youngsters are also going for the Gothic style ‘emo’ cuts, shorter fringes and compact hairdo - very layered and flattened. “This look goes with the gothic styling; revealing your tattoos on the neck and back,” says Yuvraj.

 Apart from the latest hair trends emanating from the fashion industry, Bollywood continues to get inspired from the latest trends. “Girls nowadays want to emulate Chitrangada Singh’s hairdo in one of Bollywood’s upcoming movies,” he says. 

For the sheer pleasure!
Glamour meets elegance as sheer fabrics reappear on the fashion circuit
Serena Miglani

Elegance sure adds to one's glam quotient. This season is all about elegance and going the Audrey Hepburn way! From laces to sheer sleeves, breezy chiffons and rich brocade patterns, go feminine and sophisticated with adornment. Teaming a lace jacket with a pair of skinny jeans and boots for the daytime look or the little black dress in classic lace for a party wear, you can be effortless and graceful in your sense of style.

“Sheer as well as brochia sleeves are my favourites. I like experimenting with bright colours and sheer for simple yet chic style,” says Ankita Arya, a student at DAV 10.

The sheer sleeves allow you to bare a hint of skin without going sleeveless and it shields you from the dust in summer and cold in chilly weather.

A little sheer here and there can translate a dress to something new altogether. “Transparent chiffon sleeves in dark shades are in this season. For that cosmopolitan look, team it up with palazzo pants,” says Saurav Lakhanpal, manager, Shelly's Wardrobe.

Thus, if you are using lace and sheer fabric in your attire, the modern take enables you to be totally ladylike without being conservative. For that quirky sense of style, a top with slightly exaggerated sheer sleeves can be tucked into high-waist pants.

“Using lace at the waist is another way to wear this trend. I tuck in my shirts as it looks hip and combine it with net shrugs to add grace to the outfit,” says Bhavna Sahni, a student.

For that Indian look, braided threads on the border are in vogue this season. In terms of fabric, chiffon and georgette with lace can make for a formal wear.

Long sheer sleeves combined with lace work, like an armlet, is stylish. So, go classic this season with laces and nets and add to the grandeur, after all...elegance is an attitude!

Culture connect
Experience the urge to connect to the youth with Jay Kahlon
Serena Miglani

Music speaks the language of the heart and can transpire beyond all boundaries to connect to the soul. The appeal is universal but when it comes to intonating in homeland, the charm manifolds. “Main Punjab da haan teh apni jadaan de kol reh apne gaan di shuruwaat karna chahnda haan (I hail from Punjab and wanted to pursue my career , staying connected to my roots and culture.)” says Jay Kahlon, a budding singer from Sweden , on releasing his debut album Nahi Sarda by T-Series. But why Nahi Sarda? And he remarks, “It puts forth the ideologies of the youngsters of today. It talks about how life cannot suffice without certain requirements that are essential, no matter what.”

In spite of his upbringing in Sweden, Kahlon has a profound inclination towards the Indian culture and has trained in the Indian classical music through the teachings of his guru, Late Sh. Ishwar Das Pathak who gave him a strong foundation. “Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and the legendary Mohammad Rafi have inspired me always and I idolise Gurdas Maan, who has been the pioneer of Punjabi folk music,” says Jay. On being asked about his favourite genre, he answers, “I like experimenting with music and have sung all kinds of songs be it Punjabi, folk, R & B, romantic and sad songs.” Punjabi singers being multi- faceted often pursue acting and he agrees, “I got my first break as an actor in the Hollywood flick Zero Dark Thirty and I am also considering some roles that I have been offered.”

The album Nahi Sarda consists of eight tracks, with the title track Nahi Sarda and the number Goli, projecting the youth’s spirit and Punjabi vigour. The songs have been composed by Preki B. and the lyrics have been penned down by Pali Gidderbaha and Jaani Gidderbaha. His upcoming projects include an album in collaboration with the Punjabi rapper Badshah.

CELEB POINT
Sir, we love you!
Divya Dutta

Shhhhhhh!! Shooting with Mr Bachchan soon; after so many years, I am super-excited. He is the one and the only actor - the legend, the superstar, the lovely human being; he is my reason to being in films.

As a kid I used to tear moms dupattas and sarees and tie them around my waist and invite the kids from the neighbourhood to watch me perform on khaike paan banaras wala. And of course treat the kids to samosas and gulab jamuns. I had this amazing connect with Amitabh Bachchan. In class when they asked me what I wanted to be, I used to say Amitabh Bachchan!

Many years later, I did my first film Baghbaan with him. I felt so depressed that I had to be nasty to my superstar in the role. I always remembered that he understood, he observed and made an effort to reach out. That’s him, the awesome combination of a superstar and a super-person. Be it Diwali get-together, Puja, Holi party or recently his 70th birthday bash, I have been fortunate to be an integral part of it all. The first time I had entered his house was for Holi, I was mesmerised to be in my favourite man’s house! The Bachchans are always gracious, making sure everyone’s well looked after.

He always replies to my messages and meets so warmly. I feel blessed! The four films that I have worked on with him, Baghbaan, Veer Zara, Last Lear and Dilli 6, I have cherished all those experiences. I remember a press conference where he said in Last Lear, Divya is our favourite. At a recent award function, me, Vidya Balan, Priyanka Chopra and Bipasha Basu were sitting together and as the anchor asked who would like to come and hug Mr Bachchan on stage, we all shrieked a yes! All the gals went up on the stage and I remained glued on to my seat. I wanted to go but I was too shy. I was so mad at myself for missing out on a hug from the man himself. And then at another award function, at the red carpet, I was giving an interview and suddenly there was lot of buzz. I saw Mr Bachchan coming, surrounded by a huge crowd. As I waved out a hello sir to him, to my surprise, he stopped and came up to me and said a ‘hi’ and gave me a hug! How grace personified is he. He left and I kept staring, mesmerised by the sheer grace, class, sophistication and magic of the man who towered above everyone else.

I look forward to shooting with you sir!

(Dutta is a Bollywood actor) 

Doc Talk
Face the reality
Dr Vikas Sharma

Facial wrinkles and lines can be reduced with cosmetic injections into the skin. The two main types of injectable substances used are botulinum toxin Type A and dermal fillers. These injections weaken the supporting muscles or plump up the skin, and this lessens the appearance of wrinkles. To treat deep lines, the certified dermatologist may decide to use both types of injectables to achieve the best result. 

Botulinum toxin Type A injection is given to weaken muscles in the face and lessen the lines associated with facial expression. The toxin relaxes the underlying muscle and allows the skin to flatten out. 

Dermal fillers are piped by injection along wrinkles and lines to plump the skin. Examples of dermal fillers include bovine (cow) collagen and the patient’s own body fat. 

Botulinum toxin Type A is injected into certain muscles of the face to soften facial lines, including:

  • Frown lines between the eyebrows
  • Lines across the bridge of the nose
  • Crow’s feet wrinkles extending from the outside corners of the eyes
  • Forehead lines
  • Lines on the throat (turkey neck)

A very fine needle is used to inject the botulinum toxin Type A into selected facial muscles. Discomfort is minimal and brief – most patients describe it as an ant-bite sting for a few seconds. The wrinkle-smoothing effects of the injection may last for up to six months.

Things to consider

  • Before you opt for any cosmetic treatment, there are some important issues to keep in mind:
  • Choose an appropriately qualified specialist.
  • Inform yourself fully of the possible risks, side-effects and complications of the procedure.
  • Think carefully about your expectations. Cosmetic treatment may improve your appearance and self-confidence, but it won’t necessarily deliver your ‘ideal’ body image or change your life.

Medical issues

Botulinum toxin Type A injection must not be used if:

  • You are allergic to any of the ingredients listed in the formulation.
  • You have an infection in the muscles where it would normally be injected.
  • You have any muscle disorders in other parts of your body, including myasthenia gravis, Eaton Lambert syndrome or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

General precautions

  • Tell your doctor if you are taking other medications, including prescription or over-the-counter medications and any complementary medicines or supplements. You must also tell your doctor if you:
  • Are taking or are likely to take antibiotics, especially aminoglycoside antibiotics
  • Are scheduled to have some surgery using a general anaesthetic
  • Have inflammation or severe weakness in the muscles where the product would be injected
  • Are pregnant or intend to become pregnant
  • Are breastfeeding or are planning to start breastfeeding
  • Have ever had a facial surgery
  • Have angle closure glaucoma
  • Have problems with your heart or circulation
  • Are taking drugs that may interfere with muscle function.

In these circumstances, it may not be possible to use botulinum toxin Type A injections.

Possible complications

Side effects, if they occur, are usually temporary and restricted to the area of injection. Side effects can include:

  • Drooping of the eyelids
  • Headache
  • Face pain
  • Redness
  • Swelling at the injection site
  • Bruising
  • Skin tightness
  • Muscle weakness
  • Numbness or a feeling of pins and needles
  • Nausea

(Dr Sharma is a Chandigarh-based dermato surgeon)

star track
Meet the leading B-town couples…

Let the good times roll
Vidya Balan and Siddharth Roy Kapoor

Vidya has been on a roll. Both her personal and professional live has been transformed. SRK is one of the bigwigs at UTV and he happens to be good-looking. They fell in love during the making of No One Killed Jessica and tied the knot in December 2012. Vidya swept the awards this year for Kahaani. She will next be seen in Ghanchakkar.

Star power
Malaika Arora Khan and Arbaaz Khan

Malaika has always been popular and now Arbaaz has come into spotlight and for all the right reasons. He has come of his own, first as producer and then as director for Dabangg 2. The Dabangg movies have brought them together as a team and they even won the National Award last year. They are a power couple and look great together.

No matter what
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan

Abhishek Bachchan's career has been reinstated with the success of Bol Bachchan. He also has Dhoom 3 coming up this year. There has been an enormous buzz around their baby Aaradhya. Aishwarya took a sabbatical to spend some time with their baby and raise her. Nevertheless, producers are waiting on her to announce her comeback and make a big movie with her. 

Last, but not the least
Boney Kapoor and Sridevi

She made a splendid comeback with English Vinglish. Suddenly, she has appeared on the scene, has become a fashionista and her youthful looks astound us. Boney Kapoor had a blockbuster with Wanted and will make a movie with his son now and has a few more projects up his sleeve too. They prove that age does not matter. 

The 'it' couple
Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan

They are the Bollywood's most glamorous couple and they tied the knot last year. The buzz around Saifeena is still the same. They are as busy as they were before marriage. Saif had Race 2, as a big hit, after marriage and Kareena had Talaash. Saif will be next seen in Bullet Raja while Kareena has Satyagraha. Good going for them.

We bring you some hot and happening married couples of Bollywood, who are still rocking

Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan,  Sridevi with Boney Kapoor,  Siddharth Roy Kapoor and Vidya Balan
Baby steps: Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan Age reversal: Sridevi with Boney Kapoor High point: Siddharth Roy Kapoor and Vidya Balan

Sonam's dare bare act

Sonam Kapoor We hear that Sonam Kapoor is going to don a bikini for an untitled romantic comedy by Nupur Asthana and produced by Yash Raj Films. She is already working hard on getting a bikini body! We wonder if she can get thinner than this. And how will she wear a bikini for a film based in Delhi?


Bikini babe: Sonam Kapoor

Friends indeed

Manisha Koirala is undergoing treatment in New York for cancer and the only friends who have kept in touch with her and visited her during her illness are Deepti Naval and Rituparna Sengupta. 

For a new beginning

Shahid Kapoor took a break from shooting on his birthday, February 24. He turned 32. He has wrapped up shooting, for Rajkumar Santoshi's Phata Poster Nikla Hero, in record time and is taking some time off before shooting for Prabhudeva's Rambo Rajkumar. He watched the live Oscar telecast on his birthday, apart from doing other things.

Stage managed

Bipasha Basu  Bipasha Basu and Malaika Arora Khan will be performing together with Shaan and Atif Aslam. Their upcoming stage shows are scheduled in London and Birmingham. Bipasha is really looking forward to sharing the stage with Malaika Arora Khan. Both are good looking women and also excellent dancers.


Looking forward: Bipasha Basu 

Professional touch

Rishi Kapoor was mad at Sonam Kapoor and Deepika Padukone for poking fun at his son Ranbir Kapoor, on Karan Johar's talk show.

This was long back. Anyway, he has patched up with Sonam Kapoor as he is playing her father in YRF's upcoming romantic comedy.

chatter box
Fresh start

The life of television's favourite jodi Ram and Priya has been going through a rollercoaster journey ever since they first met. After going through trying times they were driven apart to the point of going their own separate ways never to connect or come face to face with each other.

But, destiny has its own unique way of setting things right and giving people a second chance to start life afresh. Post sorting out their differences with each other Ram and Priya have decided to put the past behind and begin a new life together along with their daughter Pihu in Jaipur. With new hopes and dreams to start life afresh right from scratch, Ram has sacrificed and put everything on the line to be with the two people he loves the most his wife Priya and daughter Pihu. Leaving behind a flourishing business, he has opened a factory in Jaipur while Priya teaches little children in a school. They now have to lead simple lives and sacrifice a lot to give Pihu the very best in life. Pihu's birthday is around the corner and she is extremely excited about celebrating it. Both Ram and Priya want to make it really special for her. While Ram wants to make Pihu's birthday party a grand affair, Priya reminds him that they need to be realistic with their savings and keep in mind their household budget as well. Watch Bade Acche Laggte Hai at 10.30 pm. only on Sony Entertainment Television.

Fight club

Sambhavna Seth After watching many fights on Life Ok's Welcome, this week gear up for a cat fight between Sambhavna Seth and Pavitra Punia. No guest on the show has been left out as everyone at some level has got involved with some skirmish. Amit Tandon, Aryan Vaid, and Payal Rohatgi sure try hard not to fight but end up doing it anyway.

Marital woes

Colors is soon to present a refreshing new show Gurbani that is rooted in Punjabi culture and backed by a strong concept that borders on the theme of a social malaise - desertion of the brides by NRI grooms. Gurbani is the story of a young and spirited girl from Punjab who dreams of marrying an NRI and leading a happy life thereafter. The show is slated to take the 10.30 pm time slot in March replacing Parichay. The show brings popular actress Navni Parihar back on the television after many years. She was last seen in films like Tanu weds Manu, Page 3, Lucky, Shararat, Andaaz. In Gurbani, Navni will play Rano, a woman in the age of forty who has been abandoned by her husband long back but has been waiting patiently at the railway station with the hope that he will return someday to take her along. Rano, will represent the excruciating story of all those newly- wed brides who are left behind by their husbands. 

Positive take

After playing the bad guy Vansh in Uttaran, Rohit Khurana has now picked up a positive role. He talks about his new show Khubsoorat. Here’s what he has to say.

Buzz is that your show is inspired from the film Saajan?

To some extent it is inspired from the movie but Khubsoorat is an all together different story. In the show there are three main characters, Madhav who has beautiful thoughts, Rahul who is mischievous while Aaradhya who is sweet and vivacious.

What is special about Madhav?

I have always ensured that the characters I play have an edge. I did negative roles earlier yet the audiences connected to those roles. Now, I am excited about this positive role. It is different and fun for me. Madhav is not conventionally good- looking which, he feels is his handicap.

How important are looks?

They are always important for the first appearance and impression. Later you get to know the person and form an opinion accordingly.

You sport a beard once again. Don’t you want to experiment with your looks?

Well the stubble goes with my personality, especially, with the long hair. I guess it has become my trademark. If I shave it off, I might look too young for the part.

Your show will have competition from Saraswatichandra. Are you nervous?

Healthy competition is always good. I wish them all the best. Both, the shows are love stories. Though theirs is larger than life show that has style and grandeur.

When Criss Angel trained Big B

Magic and illusions have become quite a rage, but Indian audiences were first introduced to this incredible art by superstar Amitabh Bachchan in his hit movie, Jaadugar. The magic tricks performed by the actor caused viewers to gasp in awe and wonder. However, it is a little known fact that Big B got some special training for his acts from none other than internationally renowned illusionist, Criss Angel, who currently features on Big RTL Thrill’s show, Criss Angel - Magic Ya Sach.

Criss Angel was introduced to magic at the tender age of six when he learnt his first card trick from his aunt. Bringing together the power of mind, body and spirit, today Criss Angel's shows enjoy international acclaim. By the age of 22, a still young Criss had already created a strong brand around himself - one which pulled the biggest actor in Indian cinema right to him! Speaking about his brush with Indian cinema, Criss Angel said, "The closest I have come to work with a magician from India was with Amitabh Bachchan. I trained him to bring magic into his performance in front of 16,000 people at the Nassau Coliseum.” 

Pet pal

The lead pair of YRKKH This week on Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai (YRKHH), Naksh is adamant about brining a pet home. He tries to persuade Naitik to get him a pet. Meanwhile, Akshara and Naitik try to spend time with each other but keep missing chances.

Exposed!

This weekend on the maha episode of Diya Aur Baati Hum, post the maha arti, Swami asks Sandhya to return the jewellery. Sandhya tricks him and exposes him in front of everyone.

Astro turf
p Khurrana

ARIES: You win over an enemy or adversary. Family life is charged with tension. Financially, the first half of the day is rather expensive. Writers will find their work in print. Keep cool and maintain a low profile. Tarot message: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far. Lucky colour: Mauve. Magic number: 49

TAURUS: Those who are more spiritually inclined or who want to stay calm will be in search of solitude. Love life is passing through a rough phase. Businessmen have a tricky day. Tarot message: Be positive and think carefully before taking action. Lucky colour: Turquoise. 0Magic number: 42

GEMINI: Your card “The Universe” favours good progress in your profession and business. Be wary of a situation where it would be easy to make a mistake in haste. Tarot message: Do not let anyone take advantage of you. Lucky colour: Bottle-green. Magic number: 25

CANCER: You card “The Moon” reveals a romantic interest. Fortune can smile on you from the least expected sources. Don’t rely on luck alone, though. Money will be very important to you today. Tarot message: Don’t be too certain about obtaining a clearance. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 38

LEO: An unexpected bonus is likely. Dress for success to make a great impression on employers. It is important to stay in touch with the latest in fashion. Enjoy being noticed and acknowledged. Tarot message: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 29

VIRGO: Fresh strategies are likely, but initially they will be somewhat hit-and-miss as you iron the bugs. Household tasks can be done in record time. Speculation will be most unwise. 0Tarot message: Capitalise on your strength and do not trust others. Lucky colour: Orange. 0Magic number: 60

LIBRA: Boring routine jobs can be made more bearable through teamwork today. A level of stress will build, especially if you face unpaid bills or financial issues. You will be feeling vulnerable to the criticism of neighbours or friends. Tarot message: Focus on better to mitigate the bitter. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 59

SCORPIO: Many of you will scurry to be on time, frantically trying to complete all the tasks on the to-do list before the day is out. Make extra efforts to conclude pending projects. Tarot message: Impatience will lead to failure. Lucky colour: Cream. Magic number: 54

SAGITTARIUS: Caring conversations and heart-to-heart talks flow easily. Health problems can be successfully handled. This is a good day for both buying and selling property. Tarot message: Unfinished business will unleash new problems. Lucky colour: Grey. Magic number: 39

CAPRICORN: A burst of domestic enthusiasm is likely. Senior bureaucrats should focus on secret files and documents. Do not carry heavy cash. It is a good day for travel. Tarot message: You need to cultivate understanding and humility. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 63

AQUARIUS: Differences of opinion within the family could reach a boiling point. A stubborn response on your part won’t help. Do not compromise on financial issues. Tarot message: If you are tempted to travel overseas, don’t waste money by financing the trip yourself. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 27

PISCES: If you are not okay about a relationship, finance or career issues, take positive action rather than complaining about it. The employed will have to work overtime. Tarot message: Dare to accomplish long-term tasks. Lucky colour: Camel. Magic number: 40

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is February 27...

You are highly interactive; this nature of yours will get you many profitable professional proposals this year. You will attract many well-established business personalities with your knowledge and sense of humour. As suggested in the horoscope 2013, you will have to be very selective while dealing with people.

You will face ups and downs as far as your domestic life is concerned. Your family will try to understand and support you. The second half of the year might bring happiness related to love. You are likely to face a very bad situation at your workplace.

You will enjoy the constant flow of income throughout the year. There is also a strong possibility of increment. Keeping a low profile is the only way to get peace. Let your creative juices flow; don't waste time on mundane chores. Painting, baking, sculpting, and craftwork helps release considerable tension. This is also a great opportunity to make money while honing your artistic talent. If you play your cards right, you'll forge friendships with several successful members of your community. Let go of your impulse to lecture or even to remind people of what they need to do – things just aren't going your way right now, but that is okay. Your energy is best spent taking care of your own needs. Be ready for some stormy times at your workplace in June. Postpone new projects as the stars are not favourable right now.

Do not forget about people who depend on you! Do not waste time and tire yourself out running down the wrong streets.  Home and family affairs will be fine, except for your parents who will be unduly worried about you. Other than this, matters at home will be congenial and peaceful. The married will enjoy delightful companionship. Youngsters can look forward to an enjoyable vacation.

Mood: Peaceful and relaxed.
Compatible signs: Libra, Taurus, Capricorn.
Lucky colours: Maroon, Khaki.
Lucky days: Wednesday.
Lucky numbers: 8, 12, 28, 82, 96.

You share your birthday with Prakash Jha (February27, 1952, West Champaran, Bihar), who is known for his political and socio-political films, including Damul (1984), Mrityudand (1997), Gangaajal (2003) and Apaharan (2005). He is also the maker of National Film Award winning documentaries such as Face After Storm (1984) and Sonal (2002). His stars are strong for films and not for politics.





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