The cost of living
The cast of upcoming Hindi film Saare Jahaan Se Mehnga is new, but finds an able leader in veteran actor Sanjay Mishra…
Manpriya Singh

It’s an ode to inflation and a film that celebrates the script - a plot where Shah Rukh Khan is not the hero but someone among the masses! Upcoming Hindi film Saare Jahaan Se Mehnga, may not have everything going for it but at times, doing things low-key could be the answer to all the promotions and that’s what they seek refuge in. Together, the team raises a toast to the situational comedy and the casting during an interaction in Chandigarh on Wednesday.

“I couldn’t have taken stars. They come with a prefixed image and couldn’t have played a common man with conviction,” shares Anshul Sharma, the director, on his decision to cast Pragati Pande, Ranjan Chhabra, Disha and the protagonist Sanjay Mishra.

The film is a satirical take on inflation, the issue that the larger percentage of our population deals with on a daily basis. Says Anshul, “There have been many comedies and films on the subject, but we have tried depicting the problem from a different perspective.” Having been an associate director on the sets of Dev D, No Smoking, Pyaar Ka Panchnama and Phas Gaya Re Obama, it’s the scripts that he focuses on.

He adds, “The strength of this film lies in its script. You will be able to relate to all the problems and characters.” Coming up is Bach Gaya Re Obama, a sequel to Phas Gaya Re Obama.

The new brigade

The fact that most of them are first-timers runs in their favour. Ludhiana-born and Mumbai-based Gaurav Chhabra, who plays Gopal, likes a couple of things about his character. “I play a boy-next-door but someone who’s good-for-nothing. In fact, the entire family is worried about him and gets into a lot of trouble because of him.” Disha, may have done a couple of projects Down South but is kicked about her debut Hindi film. “It’s a film with a message. I play Gopal’s love interest.”

The leading man

While the name may not instantly ring a bell, the face does. Sanjay Mishra is enjoying every bit of the responsibility that comes with playing the protagonist. “I carry the film on my shoulders. Any brick-bats or bouquets that come my way, I accept. At least I matter in the film…that’s what matters to me.”

He adds, “Before this we’ve had films that have clubbed romance and inflation or have spoken about action in inflation. But nobody’s spoken of a family that has to survive in Rs 10,000 a month, and even celebrate Holi or Diwali in that sum.”

While a few and far between attempts at playing a villain may have been forgetful, Sanjay’s comic acts continue to entertain. “It’s only now that everyone in the industry is getting a chance to do quality work. Maybe after this film, I’ll be a little alert as to what roles to play,” shares the pass-out from National School of Drama.

If not anything else, the budget timing should play a factor in the box-office collections. “It’s releasing in the first week of March, but budget is not something that people forget easily. It’s something you have to live with.” Absolutely true!

manpriya@tribunemail.com

A story in every step
Mona

When Rajashree Shirke along with her troupe presents a story from our rich Puranas, it is as if the time stands still. Young girls don the role of Krishna, Arjun or Karan and tell a tale in a fierce manner, which is still very much relevant to today’s times!

Rajashree Shirke
Rajashree Shirke 

Mata Hidimba is what Rajashree brought to the Chandigarh Dance Festival, which is a story that addresses the issue of single motherhood, politics of war and more. “Our Puranas, Ramayana and Mahabharata are universal tales that make perfect sense till today,” says Rajashree. Kathak and Bharatnatyam exponent, this artiste has evolved her own vocabulary to present dance dramas.

She has done Ravan Mandodari Samvad, Amba, Ambika and Ambalika, and more such tales; it is her way of doing her bit for the cause of women empowerment. Just as is the story of Amba, Ambika and Ambalika, three sisters who were abducted by Bhishma, many women even today are taken against their will. Amba did not sit still and took her revenge on her abductor Bhishma.

At Lasya Centre For Dance, Education and Research, that she is founder-member of, Rajashree helps young girls gain confidence and explore their creativity. Along with her students, she goes out to teach dance in various schools and bring those interested in learning back to the Centre. She also helps them earn and find a career.

As for herself, Rajashree, a literature lover, is happy to unleash her creative side without bothering much about the economics, “Dance works out as a career option only if one has passion for it. Earning a living is important, but even more is to be able to say your story in an appealing manner.”

Happy with telling stories that have echoed at prestigious platforms, this dancer, choreographer, writer and academician is next aiming to bring alive Vivekananda. “The questions he asked and answered on God would take the centrestage,” says ajashree.

mona@tribunemail.com

Anupam’s Oscar moments
Anupam Kher attended the Oscars and had a ball bonding with the winners, nominees and different film personalities. He talks about movies, Ang Lee, Jennifer Lawrence and more.

The Oscars

The Oscars are a celebration of cinema. It is not about one winner and many nominees because being even nominated is a huge honour and that way everyone is a winner. There is so much warmth in meeting people and appreciating cinema. I shall always cherish this experience.

Jennifer Lawrence

It was not hard for me to predict that she would win because she is such a natural actress, an exemplary one and she is only 22. She is a humble and grounded person. I am very proud of her and glad that I was there to share her big moment.

Ang Lee

Ang Lee is one of the calmest and grounded people I know. I have worked with him on Conquest, Lust. I met him after his win and asked his plans for the week and after the win, he said he did not know and had no plans. He is Buddha-like and has a humongous amount of talent. It is a privilege to know him and have worked with him. Even Suraj Sharma has started out so young in Life of Pi and has a bright future ahead of him.

Hilary Swank

I met her at the Mont Blach pre-Oscar luncheon. She is my favourite actress. She is an ambassador with the Unicef, so we spoke about our charity work, her work in Somalia and my work with underprivileged children here in India. We discussed movies too.

Felicitation

I am being felicitated for my contribution to film and social work here in LA, the entertainment capital of the world. I realised after coming here that this proclamation is a huge honour. This year has been absolutely blessed so far and just getting bigger and better!

Hrithik shoots despite pain

Hrithik Roshan, the professional that he is, gives his job the highest priority. Even physical pain cannot keep him from meeting his deadlines. Recently the actor was in Bali to shoot for an advertisement campaign and the shooting included sky-diving. He was shooting for a soft drink brand for which he is the brand ambassador. During this shoot, the old chronic pain in his knee returned and he was temporarily immobilised.

A close source from the location reported, “Hrithik, who has just become the brand ambassador of the soft drink that was previously endorsed by Salman Khan, was in Bali earlier this month. The pain made it difficult for him to shoot the ad. Considering the deadline and the fact that they were racing against time, Hrithik shot the ad with painkillers.”

The soft drink brand’s ad campaigns are well known for dare devil acts and this one was no different. Hrithik was supposed to do a stunning act. According to the source, “In one of the sequences he had to sky-dive from a helicopter. He had to fold his knees for the scene. Hrithik experienced so much pain that he could not shoot and a break was announced.”

Though Hrithik was in immense pain, he didn’t wish to delay the schedule of the advertisement. He himself was also eager to return to Mumbai as he wished to be present during the editing of the sequel of his film that will be released soon. The sequel is directed by none other than Rakesh Roshan.

Soon, the actor resumed the shoot. “After a three-hour break, Hrithik decided to go ahead with the shoot. He completed the schedule but his pain was visible,” states a source. We wish our favourite hero a speedy recovery. It seems the life of Bollywood celebrities is not all cake walk. They too have to work hard and sweat out a lot to earn a glamorous living. However, when Hrithik was quizzed, he downplayed the event and humbly replied, “Not true. It was a tough shoot but I was okay.”

Identity issue

Parineeti Chopra Parineeti Chopra loves Priyanka Chopra. But Parineeti is somewhat wary of her star-cousin’s name being mentioned every time whenever she is being discussed.

If the truth be told, Parineeti now wants her own identity. “I am proud to be Priyanka’s sister. But I want to be known for myself, the way Ranbir is known, although he is Kareena Kapoor’s cousin. People should forget where I come from. I don’t want to be called only Priyanka’s sister. I want to be as good as her. People should say Priyanka and Parineeti are both fabulous actors,” she says.

She doesn’t see Priyanka as competition at all. “How can Priyanka be my rival? She is been here so much longer. I think I am lucky that I am known after just two films as more than Priyanka’s cousin. People say we’re both good actors.”

Like Priyanka, she is also a trained singer. “It runs in the family. My dad and Priyanka’s dad are brothers. They used to sing together on stage. And when Priyanka and I were kids we performed on stage together. So yeah, I love singing. If I get a chance to make a dream singing debut like Priyanka I’d grab it. May be later. And I also love reading. But most of all I like sleeping. That’s when I regain all my energy. Then I go out and act,” she adds.

Parineeti says she comes from a background where self-discipline is a precondition. “I was a focused student in school and college. I want to continue that way as an actress.”

She doesn’t think that she is a star yet. “I am not a star at all! Stardom comes after years of work. It doesn’t happen with two films. Let me get a solid 7-8 years of work done before we talk of stardom for me. I’m just lucky to be here at a time when audiences are willing to watch newcomers. Yeah, I do enjoy being recognised on the streets. If that didn’t happen I’d be really depressed. My aim is to be known by everyone who sees films. I don’t want any viewer to ask, ‘Parineeti who? I am here for a very long time,” she signs off.

starry connection: Parineeti Chopra

Sabyasachi walks out of Ram Leela

exit mode: Sabyasachi Eccentric and acclaimed designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee was supposed to design the elaborate outfits for the leading lady of Ram Leela. He walked out of the movie because of creative differences with Sanjay Leela Bhansali who is equally eccentric.

Sabyasachi rode into Bollywood on the success of Black and Guzaarish as he had designed the elaborate and ethereal outfits for Rani Mukerji and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. He turned down a Vidya Balan film in order to do Ram Leela. He had made some designs for Juliet, which did not match with SLB's Gujarati Juliet and the director did not accommodate his vision. Sabyasachi is used to having a free creative reign. Moreover, he could not be on the sets all day and was annoyed with the time it took to choose another heroine after Kareena Kapoor Khan. The parting was mutual and Sabyasachi has now become busy with the Cinema Suite at the Taj Hotel in London. It is a high-end luxurious cinema which he is designing and he gave that project priority over Ram Leela which is a sensible thing to do.

So, stylist and designer Anju Modi has stepped into his shoes. She was recommended to SLB by Sonam Kapoor. He took her word for it because Sonam is fashion conscious and knowledgeable about such things. Also, Anju has the time to be on the sets as SLB likes his creative team to be present on the sets during shooting.

So all's well that ends well and we have to say that the movie looks grand and fashionable!

Rustic palette
The online art gallery Ocher Art exhibits about 90 artworks of artists from across the country
Amarjot Kaur

Indian art has indeed travelled through the barriers of time and has framed a rather glorious montage for itself. If you were wondering what other possible platform could the regional art be mounted on, here’s a city-based curator and artist, Baani Sekhon, who delivers a peek at the regional art through a fancy online art gallery—Ocher Art. The exhibition about the same beautifies the walls of the Museum Art Gallery, as these adorn as many as 90 artworks of various artists hailing from across the country.

xBlame it on the colourful display of serendipity dominating the colour palette, the paintings bear a distinct rustic charm. Needless to mention, the contemporary works of Tailor Srinivas, priced between Rs 10,000 to 47,000, which present a stark colour contrast with neat strokes of acrylic on canvas, the pungent taste for a perfect Hyderabadi summer cocktail. Also, the works of Prakash Arjun, priced at Rs 50,000 to 75,000, are remarkable in terms of tones and shades.

Among many other artists, including PK Sadanandan, Kappari Krishan, Sekhar Roy, Bhaskar lahiri, Gajraj Chavan, Varsha Kharatmal, Bhawandla Narahari, Ramchandra Pokale, Pradiptaa Chakraborty and Sameer Sarkar, the works of Sameer Sarkar, Suresh Gulage and Somnath Bothe elicit the understanding of India and Indian folk. While Somnath Bothe’s art works elicit a unique show of reflection work on the rainy days, Suresh Gulage’s canvas reads a flat sketch on a riot of colours and an intentional focus on what seems frivolous.

The art affair

Baani Sekhon studied art at the Government College of Art, Chandigarh after which she pursued a career in e-learning. Her works at the exhibition personify the Hindu deities and intimates the visitors with their mythological tales. “I like painting Radha-Krishna and their romance. Also, Shiv and Parvati are a delight. I use vibrant hues rather than picking a dull tone. For me, painting is all about happiness.”

Some of her works include Radha Hides Krishna’s flute, Sai Baba, Shiv and Parvati Dancing and Radha Imitates Krishna.

Young guns 
Tanya Malhotra

Lights, camera, marvel! A 30-minute documentary North India’s Young Achievers based on 10 short-listed young achievers from 100 schools in the North is one such glorious moment to savour. And this is just the beginning!

Students who made the documentary North India’s Young Achievers
Achivers’ club: Students who made the documentary North India’s Young Achievers.

Under the guidance of experts, the students enthralled the spectators with their sheer talent and their willingness to work towards the uplift of society.

“The documentary has motivated us to pick up more social causes like mental disability and organ donation to educate the society as a whole,” says Piyoosha Sharma, director, International School of Media.

“We are very proud today to have transformed the hobbies of the students into their passion which will soon turn into their profession. This is our greatest achievement,” adds Manjit Hans, co-founder of INSM and chairman of Hans Foundation.

The event started on a joyful note by awarding the achievers and their personal and professional life covered in the documentary. Needless to say, their parents and school authorities delightfully accompanied them to capture their moment of magnificence. It was later followed by awarding the team of seven laudable students who are a true example of academic excellence.

“The encouragement has taken us to another level. There are many others who deserve this recognition and we are very fortunate to have made it to the top ten,” they echo. The function concluded with a captivating dance performance by 14-year-old Anchor Sanjna. 

Canvas of hope

Magma Fincorp, a retail asset finance company, as part of their CSR programme organised its 3rd edition of its painters’ workshop in Chandigarh. The initiative aimed at promoting and encouraging art and upcoming talents. Suryakant Mishra, associate vice-president, Magma Fincorp Ltd was present for the workshop.

The workshop had promising city artists colouring the canvases. The upcoming talents of the city who participated in this workshop were Monami Bhattacharya, Dilsher Singh Sidhu, Ismat Pal Singh, Prabhjot Saundh, Sidharth Goswami, Arnav Anand, Yatti Dutt, Sonica Gupta, B.Ravikiran and Randeep Kalita.

The painters’ workshop is a part of Magma’s CSR initiatives to encourage and nurture talents in the field of art. This initiative was started 7 years back in Kolkata and has been recently taken to a national level.

The other cities where such workshops have been organised are Cochin, Bhubaneswar, Pune, Bangalore and Nagpur

This was the third edition of their initiative in Chandigarh. — TNS

Divine collection
Manpriya Singh

Picture the beauty of filigree against the backdrop of ancient temples. There are many things that the yellow metal lends itself to, inspiring all the more. The collection, by Art Karat, as the name suggests, is inspired by some of the most beautiful temples of India. It draws from the motifs on the divine sculptures at the temples of Khujuraho, Konark, Tirupati and Tanjour.

Thrown in are elements like kundan, rubies and emeralds. Traditionally speaking, temple jewellery is associated with Devadasis, worn to please the Gods while dancing. The designers behind the jewellery house, Asha Modi and Saket Modi travelled to the corners of India to pick up motifs and stones to be used in the collection.

While there may be as many as 700 designs as part of the collection, however, only a trunk show has made its way to the city. The collection includes a range of necklaces, long earrings, bracelets, bajubandha, tikkas, rings and pins.

On till March 3 at Hotel Mountview-10

Master Chef
The red, the hot, and the chilli!
Kandla Nijhowne

They are here again--the glistening, glossy red beauties! When our son was a mere toddler, he was so enamoured with a jar full of red chilli pickle that he'd repeatedly point one stubby finger towards the shelf, asking to be fed the fiery stuff. It became a regular tantrum till I relented. Hold you breath, readers! I sat my little one on the carpet, the jar of pickle on the left, and the sugar pot on the right. I fished out the tiniest possible speck of chilli and fed it to him, ready and armed with a spoonful of sugar that I would surely shovel down his gob within a second. The banshee-style wailing almost brought the house down while my neighbours wondered if I was a child abuser! The spoonful of sugar helped, and from then on, the stubborn halts near the pickle jar came to a grinding halt! Preserve these chillies to use all the year round as a pickle or my favourite chili garlic sauce. This goes with anything and adds a spicy bite to even the most tame of dishes. It's fiery heat ensures it’s definitely not for the fainthearted!

Spicy chilli garlic sauce

* Red chillies 150-200 gm

* Garlic 6 cloves

* Salt ½ tsp

* Sugar 1 tbsp

* White vinegar 1½ tbsp 

Method

* Snap the stems off the chillies and chop or slice them.

* Peel and mince the garlic pods.

* Put all the ingredients in a food processor or blender.

* Process to a coarse texture. Take a whiff. It should make you sweat a bit!

* Transfer to a small saucepan and bring to a vigorous simmer over medium heat.

* Lower the heat to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes, or until it no longer smells raw.

* Remove from the heat and set aside to cool, then taste for seasoning.

* Add more salt, sugar or vinegar if needed. They will also mitigate the heat if you find the sauce too fiery!

* Transfer to a jar and store in the refrigerator.

(Nijhowne is a Chandigarh-based culinary expert)

GET PHYSICAL
Knee guard
Vishal Thukral

The knee is the largest joint in the human body and is very complicated. Our knees too often become our weakest link when it comes to our joints, because they carry so much of our weight and do a lot of the work. But we really can strengthen and protect our knees by combination of strengthening exercises and healthy diet.

Power to the knee

Type 1

* Sit on a table or bench – something that’s high enough for your legs to dangle, with a foot or more from your feet to the floor.

* Hang weights on your foot at the ankle. Beginning with 1kg ankle weights, slowly lift the weight by extending your leg as far as you can. Hold for a count of three. Then slowly lower your leg to the starting position. Be sure you keep your back straight.

* The work must be using the quadriceps. Repeat the lift 8-10 times, progressively increasing both the weight and number of repetitions. Repeat the exercise with the other leg.

Type 2

* While sitting in a chair, rest one leg on another seat or bench.

* Raise that leg a few inches off the chair or bench. Hold the position for 10 seconds and then return to the previous position. Make sure the back is straight and the other foot is firmly planted on the ground. Repeat the exercise 6 to 7 times and then repeat the process with the other knee.

Type 3

* Lie down. Loop a bed sheet around your right foot. Use sheet to help pull and stretch leg up. Hold for 30 seconds.

* Repeat twice, then switch legs.

Protect your role of knees while running:

Stretch your knees and lower body prior to starting any run. As a runner wear a good pair shoes. A high quality shoe is not necessarily an expensive shoe. Rather it offers a firm, well-padded shoe with enough side tension and support to prevent your ankle from rolling excessively.

Make a conscious effort to run on the grass instead on the asphalt or pavement.

Nutrition for better knees

Get plenty of vitamin C. Vitamin C is particularly helpful to the body in repairing connective tissue and joints. Oranges, grapefruits and pineapples are good sources of vitamin C. Make sure the diet is rich in vitamin E.

(Thukral is an aerobic fitness trainer)

Jewel in the crown
Satinder Sartaaj is passionate about his songs. And each note is imbued with this passion
Mona

He takes his craft rather seriously; dressed immaculately in bright kurta salwar with a matching turban in place, Satinder Sartaaj is all eager to share notes on his album Afsane Sartaaj De in Chandigarh on Wednesday.

It’s his mother who releases the album, as Sartaj passionately shares the story behind each of the ten songs, which are a blend of Sufi and folk. The album has songs printed in the singer’s own handwriting and carries visuals that went into their making.

If Soohe khat invokes old world charm and culture there are others addressing varied themes, but each related to common life. So there is Kudio Roya Na Karo, a song that always managed to tug emotional chord of women around the world in shows that made Sartaj officially release it. Jang Jaan Waley is a tribute to soldiers who have laid down their lives while Drakhta'n Nu is a call to save the environment; Putt Saadey is a song about young dreams. Closest to this singer’s heart though is Dard Gareeban Da and Maula Ji.

Son of a farmer, Sartaj aims to touch the common man and highlight his struggle. Maula Ji takes forward from his earlier hit Sai, “It is my ardaas; felt and sung right from the heart.” All is not well with the world and Sartaj gives the world a wake up call in Khilara.

Sartaj has also danced in a video that showcases the rural flavour of Punjab and before you ask him, he clarifies, “I do have offers for Punjabi movies but I am not a actor yet. Till I learn acting, I am happy inhabiting here.”

A PhD in music with Sufi studies being the focus, Sartaj studies the Sufi tradition; right from lyrics, saaz to dressing for his thesis. “No education makes you an artiste though,” he proclaims adding that, “art comes as a gift from the God.” But at the same time he lauds value of education. “If I am able to present myself well, the credit lies with the education and the role of my teachers.”

It is not only in his songs that Sartaj asks for change, in fact proceeds from his latest album, which is a joint production between Eros International and Firdaus, Sartaj’s own production house, go to Youwecan, cancer charity that Sartaj is a board member of. If Yuvraj Singh is one person fond of his songs, Dharmendra is another. “Mine is an attempt to reach out to each one in the society. I feel fortunate that I have received encouragement from the elite class.”

Compliments fill the jam-packed hall — if Sartaj is all humility, it is his Ammi who beams with pride!

Written in luxury
The market for luxury pens is expanding with each passing day...
Gurvinder Singh

It’s a pen that can be used both on paper as well as your touch screen phone or tab. The new collection of luxury pens from Monte Verde indeed offer a varied choice, where subtle innovations have lured people into spending big time on them. And things are just getting better with the ever-expanding market for luxury pens.

“The market for expensive pens has only increased with time; pens are now considered as a luxury item,” says Amit Syal, from Lekh Raj Syal and Sons, Ludhiana. “With increasing awareness of these luxury pens and rising incomes, the demand for such pens has only increased,” he adds.

Manufacturers of pens are also coming up with unique innovative creations. A pen with a Cross has three differently coloured refills along with a pencil. Pilot has come up with a clickable fountain pen while Cross and Monte Verde have created clickable roller pens. Old techniques are also being re-introduced. Crescent filler that was more in use earlier has been brought back by Conklin.

Limited edition pens are much sought after by pen-lovers. Scheaffer has brought out a limited edition Ferrari series. Krome manufactures limited edition pens like a collection on Winston Churchill, shaped like the cigar he smoked and a Thomas Edison collection shaped like a bulb.

These are pens with a long life. Apart from durable materials like resin, carbon fibre is also being used for making these pens. Firms like Visconti use volcanic ash to create ‘artefacts.’ Materials like gold, silver and even diamonds are commonly used in luxury pens.

chatter box
Casanova’s confession

Karan Wahi has a rather good fan base, the majority of which are women. The handsome guy, who has been hosting Nach Baliye, enjoys flirting with women and anchoring as well.

Why do you think you are so popular?

I don’t know what to say to that, perhaps it is because people relate to me and my shows. Even today people talk about Remix and Dill Mill Gayye, which justifies the success of these shows among the youth. Most people like the roles I play and I thank everyone for their love and support.

Your bonding with Rithvik Dhanjani on Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa and then with Gautam Rode in Nach Baliye got a lot of attention, why?

We all get along well and the rapport we share spills over on the screen. I had great fun dancing with Rithvik during Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa and with Gautam, who is a wonderful co-host in Nach Baliye.

Are you still in touch with Kritika Kamra whom you were linked to during Kuch Toh Log Kahenge?

She is a nice girl and we are friends. Both of us laughed off the rumours of our linkup. Such rumours, I understand, are part and parcel of this industry.

You seem to be smitten by Shilpa Shetty. Aren’t you?

Yes, she’s gorgeous. I enjoy talking to her and even flirting a bit. But as she’s married, I don’t overdo it.

What do you enjoy the most: acting, dancing or anchoring?

Nothing beats acting. I am an actor first. However, I enjoy anchoring and dancing too.

What else is in store for you?

Right now Nach Baliye, and there are some more projects, but nothing is confirmed yet, so I wouldn’t be able to reveal anything.

A still from Rab Se Sohna Isshq. Love triangle!

Buzz is that Kanan Malhotra and Ekta Kaul from Rab Se Sohna Isshq are facing trouble in their love life. Apparently Kanan’s friendship with his co-star Neha Janpandit is the bone of contention. Ekta is upset with the rumours she’s hearing, which has caused problems for the couple.
A still from Rab Se Sohna Isshq.

Vivian Dsena Work is worship

Vivian Dsena aka RK of Colors’ Madhubala is unwell as he’s been suffering from congestion. However, the committed actor didn’t stall the shooting and returned to finish the day’s work.
sick leave: Vivian Dsena

Rupal Tyagi in Sapne Suhane Ladakpan ke Mob issues
The cast of Zee TV’s show, Sapne Suhane Ladakpan Ke, was recently shooting for the suicide scene on the outskirts of Mumbai. Within hours a huge mob from a college next to the shooting location thronged the spot. The team could resume work only after taking a break of a few hours.

Rupal Tyagi in Sapne Suhane Ladakpan ke

Delnaz Irani On a roll
After Bigg Boss, Delnaaz Irani has moved on to acting. She is doing a play called Marriages Were Made in Heaven. Thrilled about acting on stage, Delnaaz who has done plays in English, Hindi and Gujarati feels there is no greater high than acting in a play and having a live audience respond to it. 

play time: Delnaz Irani

Inviting trouble
On Saath Nibhana Saathiya, Rashi lands up at Urmi’s place. At first she’s pampered but when she becomes demanding, Urmi threatens Gopi to call Rashi back to Modi house. Gopi tries, but in vain. Koki realises that there is no romance between Gopi and Ahem, so she urges them to participate in Mr & Mrs Rajkot competition.
A still from Saath Nibhana... 

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is February 28...

The year 2013 will be average for you. Egoistic clashes will come forth by the year end, which will lead to bitterness in relationships with your family members. There is satisfaction professionally and skillful assistance will prove fruitful. Your competitive spirit will outshine your ability amongst all. If you are planning to switch your job, this is the time.

Be considerate towards your loved ones to avoid relationship problems. There are constructive financial prospects on the cards. March will highlight your leadership abilities, but the major challenge is to transform your general or abstract ideas into the realm of action. Pursue your dreams to move ahead in life. Don’t insist on doing things your way if the situation is too complex.

You will adopt a multi-dimensional approach as far as your interests are concerned. Accept the limitations of your loved ones to strengthen love and develop bonds. Travelling to a remote country is a great option to pamper the romantic in you. Singles will surely find someone special through such trips and for the couples, love blossoms further.

Beware of tarnishing your image. Don't veil your feelings for a special someone even if you fear rejection. Work in unison with others and be part of a group to enhance your luck. Approaching trustworthy friends and people in moments of need provides strength. Choosing alternatives can be risky and ultimately detrimental. Don’t expect help from others; be self-reliant. Some good news will make this a fantastic period for those born in the last decade.

Socially, May to June will be a busy period when you are bound to be very much in demand. People close to you will extend support, enabling you to further strengthen your position.

Mood: Calm and focused
Compatible signs: Capricorn, Pisces, Cancer
Lucky colours: Teal, Pink
Lucky Days: Thursday.
Varsha Usgaonkar ( Lucky Numbers: 1, 2, 40, 55, 68.You share your birthday with  Varsha Usgaonkar (February 28, Goa),  who was the lead actress in Ghar Aaya Mera Pardesi and Pathreela Raasta. In 2005, she appeared in the Bollywood films Mangal Pandey: The Rising and Mr Ya Miss as a supporting actress. The role of Uttara, wife of Abhimanyu and mother of Parikshit, (in Mahabharata) was a turning point in her career. Currently, she is anchoring a late-night health programme.

Astro Turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Love life will be a little difficult to handle. Now is the time to try your luck in speculative deals. Those employed will be burdened with additional responsibility without incentive.

Tarot message: Cultivate understanding and humility.
Lucky colour: Peach.
Magic number: 36

TAURUS: Social events will motivate you. At trip out of town will take you away from your lover. Hobbies and extra-curricular activities will gain momentum. Look for the answers to your dilemmas within you.

Tarot message: Resolve conflicts through discussion. 
Lucky colour: Camel. 
Magic number: 29

GEMINI: Let go off jealousy, possessiveness and control. Push extra cash into safe investment. Join a hobby class. Circumstances will take a turn in your favour.

Tarot message: Keep a close watch on any niggling health problems.
Lucky colour: Copper.
Magic number: 34

CANCER: Think twice before you spend your cash on an impulse. You will meet an interesting person today. Love stars will twinkle for teenagers. Do not draw on a joint fund without the consent of your partner. 

Tarot message: Boost your confidence with positive thinking.
Lucky colour: Maroon.
Magic number: 33

LEO: Your plans for the day can be changed by others. An opportunity to work unsupervised will enhance your performance and lead to promotion. The spotlight is on the sale or purchase of property.

Tarot message: Impatience will lead to failure.
Lucky colour: Blue.
Magic number: 30

VIRGO: It will be a tiring day at work, but conclude with a smile on your face. Romantic luck will boost your spirits. Evening will be extremely pleasant.

Tarot message: Rivalry and competition will push you to do your best.
Lucky colour: Red.
Magic number: 44

LIBRA: You will be inspired today. It is time to address the issue that has been bothering you. Love life sparkles. It is a favourable day for buying a pet. Expect excellent news concerning finances in the evening.

Tarot message: Concentrate on what is truly important.
Lucky colour: Purple.
Magic number: 32

SCORPIO: Friendly vibes and thoughts of romance will catch your attention. Don’t trust anyone blindly. Curb the habit of finding faults in people who are dear to you.

Tarot message: A positive attitude will heal old wounds.
Lucky colour: Grey.
Magic number: 46

SAGITTARIUS: No matter how much you love your partner, do not compromise things that are important to you. Teamwork is the keynote of the day. Home life will be pleasant.

Tarot message: Do what is just and watch your best interests.
Lucky colour: Brown.
Magic number: 50

CAPRICORN: Relatives will be sensitive and difficult to get along with. Do not get involved in any land deal. In the evening there is an exchange of ideas with someone who means much to you.

Tarot message: Take limited risks with your capital.
Lucky colour: Burgundy.
Magic number: 63

AQUARIUS: Gossips at the workplace can cause unexpected problems. Take what is useful and discard the rest. Guard against extreme agitation. Be careful about your health.

Tarot message: You will find within yourself a fountainhead of will-power. 
Lucky colour: Saffron.
Magic number: 59

PISCES: Think wisely before you start spending your extra cash. Do not avoid responsibilities. Keep off travel plans. Romantic life is on the upswing. Children will be a source of happiness.

Tarot message: Do not let anyone take advantage of you.
Lucky colour: Yellow.
Magic number: 48





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