The Tribune, Chandigarh, India - The Tribune Lifestyle

	For society’s sake Jharkhand-based ceramic sculptor C Vishwa is a thinking artist… Manpriya Singh Ceramic sculptures and social issues can barely be put together in the same sentence. C Vishwa, ceramic sculptor from Jharkhand, likes a sense of purpose about things. It could be his thoughts or the creations that finally emerge out of them. “I always think of ways and means through which I can highlight social issues. For instance, global warming and so many other problems that our society is facing,” he shares, during his first solo exhibition in Chandigarh. Accordingly, the twenty sculptures are a result of random thoughts and observations. He says, “Nobody’s situation and thinking process stays stagnant. It keeps changing from time to time depending on the circumstances.” The twenty works displayed flit across different subjects and inspirations. There’s a series on laughing Buddha, in ceramic stoneware. “After graduating from Chhattisgarh, I started with sculptures in wood and stone and recently shifted to ceramics.” Moving on, there’s a series titled Village Woman, with just the veil being the predominant part of the face. There’s a Rajasthani man, with his moustache doing the talking. The one titled Aas, highlights the eternal hope ever present in mankind. “These are faces looking at the sky hoping to put an end to global warming. They also symbolise how a human being is always optimistic.” He adds, “Nature and people remain my ultimate inspiration.” While there may be no lively colours, there are just bare sculptures; well-carved and put together. The one titled Inner Mind, in glazed ceramic stoneware, gives the illusion of two heads conjoined in harmony, whereas the Efforts showcases the ever busy bee in clusters, working hard. “It took me a month to make this beehive with so many bees on it.” He adds, “I first had to give some base to the structure. So I made the hive first with a lot of holes in it. Then I used the same material to make bees atop it. The bees are coloured to give the illusion as if they are buzzing.” He has already worked on forms that seem to be talking and communicating in the divine language of spirituality. The human element for him is a physiological projection of our inner state. This makes us connect with others by revealing our feelings, hopes, love and fears to them. His works are a testament to his thoughts. manpriya@tribunemail.com (On till March 22, at the Art Portfolio, Sector 9-C, Chandigarh)
	Chained to perfection A magnificent dress without proper accessories remains insipid. And when it comes to neck pieces, choose the best to augment your style… Serena Miglani Do you want to bewitch people even with a simple outfit? Just accessorise with magnificent jewellery and glam up your style quotient! Talk about casual outfits or alluring Western dresses or even the traditional Indian outfits, accessories have and will always remain an essential and vital component of a female's wardrobe. When it comes to dainty as well as classy neckpieces, there is no denying the fact that they add a lot of flair to the look! "I am a complete accessories person and whether Western or Indian, neckpieces will remain my all-time favourite. I feel they complete my attire lend them charm," says Raashi Vohra, a housewife. Be it chunky junk jewellery, statement necklaces or those colourful, layered pearl neckpieces, these captivating pieces surely up your style quotient. With summer setting in, necklines will soon plunge and it is just about the time to showcase necklaces in various materials - silver, gold or even plastic. So what do the girls prefer? "It is all about colour-matching and girls are particular that neckpieces go well with their outfits," says Raman Kumar, Manager, Jewels -11, Chandigarh. Multi-layered chain accessories, oversized pendants, chunky chokers and collar necklaces with well-crafted stones add the glam quotient to any outfit. The tattered necklaces and crocheted statement neckpieces can give your ensemble a fresh and interesting look. And for that Bohemian feeling, strands of thick rope and entail rustic pieces will give one-of-its-kind touch to the apparel. The Hamsa jewellery with the quirky pendants is a favourite amid fashionistas. "I like wearing long-oxidised chains with my dresses and these days when it comes to pendants, owls, butterflies, watches, dragons...all the amusing stuff is in. For glitter, I favour layered necklaces," says Heena Nagpal, student, Government College for Girls -11, Chandigarh. The best way to flaunt these neckpieces is to go the Lucite way, which is quite in these days — multicoloured pieces in gold, embellished, layered and twisted — there are a host of options to choose from. For that incredibly chic look, go for the feathered or geometric necklaces. When it comes to Indian ensemble, gorgeous baroque pearls work well and lend a classic look. Variety of Kundan necklaces, which are gold-plated and in bright hues, afford an ethnic charm. "AD Kundan neckpieces are in vogue; they complement the traditional Indian wear and when paired with jhumkas, add to the overall appeal," says Inderjeet Singh, owner, Bittu Bangle and Art jewellery, Sector 22, Chandigarh. Clusters of sparkling crystals, pyrites or raw diamonds as well as emeralds give a sophisticated touch to your look. Whether it is unconventional items or sophisticated accent pieces, this season it is all about carrying them with élan and making a huge style statement. Glam up Check out the statement necklaces, light-weight black metal embellished chains, exquisite pearls and beads at Jewels-11, Dewsun-11, Bittu Bangle and Art jewellery -22 and the street favourite Shastri market-22, Chandigarh. The pieces range from Rs 200 to Rs 3000 and above. Glam up Multi-layered chain accessories, oversized pendants, chunky chokers and collar necklaces with well-crafted stones add the glam quotient to any outfit. The tattered necklaces and crocheted statement neckpieces can give your ensemble a fresh and interesting look. And for that Bohemian feeling, strands of thick rope and rustic pieces will give one-of-its-kind touch to the apparel.
	All that bling All roads lead to Whispering Willows which is hosting the Vanity Fair showcasing a variety of designer wear and decor items Manpriya Singh If your love for bling runs deep, you won’t mind the distance, the parking woes, the crowd or even the blinding colours. Years down the line, Vanity Fair at Whispering Willows continues its bull-dog grip on the exhibitors and the visitors. There are crowds swarming every minute and those who love to browse before they shop, it negates the inconvenience of rubbing shoulders with one and all. There are as many as 120 odd stalls to pick and choose from and just as you enter, there’s a deluge of colours and clothes. Dressed to nines Though the prices weigh slightly on the heavier side, those who are willing to pay won’t have trouble finding just the thing they wanted. Label D, by Dimple Shroff from Mumbai, is all set to gear you up for the weddings that are still far off. Those looking for long dresses or beach wear resort can head to Angel Couture. Shares Pragya Khosla, “I am based in Delhi and I only take part in exhibitions. For Chandigarh, I’ve got resort wear garments in chiffon.” Some of the labels are as regular as the entire affair itself. There’s Couture by the city-based Mona Jawandha, with its signature pieces that are elegant, yet understated. Mumbai-based ANZ Designs, dealing in bags and footwear, further adds to the options and alternatives. For those looking for something for the long summer days, there’s Indu Abbot, specialising in Lucknow-inspired designer collection. Think cotton angrakhas and kurtas. Top to toe For those who like a little twist in the articles displayed, there’s Adaa from Mumbai, footwear makers that claim to customise colours and certain designs in what they make. Shares Sunanda Varma, the owner, “We retail only from Mumbai and we customise colours and patterns for our customers. Speaking of which, the labels, that is, a chunk of them come from the Capital and Mumbai, about a 15 stalls mark their presence from the city and there are only a few from Ludhiana. There’s one from Dubai, Sanam Tamanna, dealing in Indian formal wear. The name Full Fataaka might sound a little wacky, but the first timer at the exhibition brings in accessories that might make anyone pause and consider. “We’ve come from Mumbai and we are exhibiting bangles that range from Rs 300 to Rs 800. While the necklace range goes up to Rs 1,500,” shares the lady across the counter. Moving on, the kids mark their presence along with the mothers with quite a lot of labels dishing out kids wear. There’s Peaches that caters to “kids couture for stylish moms.” Home sweet home Last but not the least, there’s home décor and etceteras. Starting with the staples every year like Ludhiana-based Le Décor or the Amritsari Bazar from India House Group. Moving on, Besspoke Ensemble, claim to provide three sixty degree wedding solutions. Shares Kanika Babbar, “We are three sisters running this venture and we take care of your wedding at every step, starting from the invitations.” Just as you step out, there’s Earthly Creations, with its statutes and structures that can take care of every nook and corner of the house. It’s just a multitude of trunk shows put together, we bet, there’s still a lot left out. manpriya@tribunemail.com On till 17th March, 2013.
	Indulge Taste of Punjab Newly opened Only Parathas offers a staggering number of 450 types of stuffed and fusion paranthas Tanya Malhotra Nothing beats the good ol’ parathas when it comes to breakfast. Cashing on the popularity of paranthas in the North, the chain of Multiline Hotels and Restaurants has opened a true-blue Punjabi food outlet, Only Parathas, along with its associate brands Bombay Magic and Rolls & Kulchas at City Emporium Mall, Industrial Area phase 1, Chandigarh. Inaugurated by Sikander Singh Malooka, education minister, Punjab along with renowned singer-actor Roshan Prince, the food joint offers delicious parathas and more! Punjabi ahoy! Starting from Mumbai in 2001 and later in Chhattisgarh and Gujarat, the directors have presented a taste of Punjab to the country and now they are here to add a twist to the parathas. Along with that, they are also bringing in other cuisines of the country to the city. Fusion food Only Parathas offers 450 varieties of parathas. Take your pick from ingredients like capsicum, French beans, colocasia, rice, cereals, spinach, sprout and carrot which are available in single or double layers, made either in tawa or tandoor. Going a step further, they have introduced Italian and Mexican fusion parathas with zucchini, broccoli, jalapeno, red paprika, black olives and capsicum. There is more. There are a variety of mocktails, starters and desserts on the menu. “The main course includes South Indian, Chinese, Delhi style chats and Punjabi thalis. Also, Bombay Magic offers authentic taste of Mumbai Chowpatty snacks like bhelpuri, sevpuri, kanda bhaji, aloo bhaji, vada pav, dosas and chowmein. The roll and kulcha category includes kathi rolls, rumali rolls, Amritsari kulchas (stuffed and plain) and a lot more. Add in a lassi to complete your Punjabi expedition! Foodies’ take Education minister Sikander Singh Malooka found the food great. “The food is great! Nothing better than desi ghee,” he smiles, “But the introduction of low-fat paranthas is what I am really loving!” The renowned singer Roshan Prince adds, “Parantha brings back old memories. It’s the best way to start your day!” Something for all What’s there for non-vegetarians? Directors of the group, Ankur Chawla and Amit Ahuja, say, “Vegetarian food offers a lot of variety and experimentation. It’s what everybody appreciates.” However, the non-vegetarians need not worry! “We offer non-veg rolls and kulchas,” they add.
	Master of spices Celebrated Rajasthani chef Chena Ram whips up a spicy treat for foodies Serena Miglani With the temperature going up, it is the perfect time to taste the royal cuisines from Rajasthan. Talking about authentic Rajasthani food, their gastronomic trail is definitely mind-boggling. Enter Pride KC Hotel and Spa, Panchkula which is hosting the Rajasthani Food Festival and a look at the dishes will make you forget the Punjabi platter. The welcome drink, which is a refreshing chaas and the appetising Rajasthani 'pakodi', is just apt. As you move on to the main course, and visually enjoy the array of colourful, spicy dishes, do not be surprised if you are asked to have the desserts first. "The food in Rajasthan is known for its spices and splendid flavours and can be best relished if the taste is retained. So, desserts come before the meal," says Ajay Mathur, executive chef, Pride KC Hotel and Spa. And you oblige by tasting the palatable ghewar with rabdi and Rajasthani kheer . First things first! Influenced by the topography, the culinary delights of the state have main ingredients such as balti, karang, koori and sangria. Talking about Rajasthani food, how can you not mention the famous dal bhati churma. The crushed rich ghee-laiden bhati (made of gram flour) with piquant dal and sumptuous churma is relished with hands. A luscious combination of hara pyaz rabori, methi ka gatta, ker sangri topped with the famous lahsun ki chutney and you dare not complain of the spicy food! There are some appetising, non-vegetarian delights namely murg ka soyeta, handi murg, murg banjar and the all-time favourite laal maans. "To spice up the menu further, I will be preparing chakki ki sabzi, paneer rajwadi and many other appetising options," says master chef Chena Ram. With the aroma and flavour to entice you, just dig in! On till March 24
	Base formula Lotus Herbals has introduced Nutraglow Daily Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 25. Nutraglow is a light weight tinted moisturiser which contains a hint of skin perfecting colour that helps in hiding any imperfections on your skin. Whether it is day or night, winter or summer, this innovative moisturiser can be applied as a base before applying make-up in the morning and also in the evening after removing make-up. It is available in three shades, Bright Angel, Fresh Ivory and Hazelnut Star and is priced at Rs 475. — TNS
	Rana on a roll Model and anchor Pravesh Rana isn't an unknown face for the audience. Pravesh, who is seen as the host of Emotional Ataychar on television, recently made his much-awaited Bollywood debut in Tigmanshu Dhulia's Saheb Biwi Gangster Returns. The film has been getting a good response and his role as a cop has been praised by many moviegoers. In an exclusive chat, we got this talented model-turned-actor to talk about his role, the film and future plans… How did the film happen? I have been chasing Tigmanshu Dhulia for a few years now. I've been a great fan of all his work. I've watched all his films. I've always tried to be in touch with him. Eventually he called for an audition for a role in Saheb Biwi Gangster Returns and I went for it. That's how the role happened. What made you accept this film? You should watch the film. It's very impressive and keeps changing every five minutes. There are so many twists and turns in the film that the story keeps you spell bound. And of course, it had a brilliant cast and a great director. I also looked at the importance of the role and if it had any scope for me to show my acting skills. I had to say yes. After your appearance on Bigg Boss 3, you've been quite regularly seen on screen hosting shows and award ceremonies. What took you so long? I don't know. I am still 28 years old. I know it's been some time that I've been seen on television. But I think whether you take time or not, it's the role that matters. Your choice matters. I don't give much importance to quantity but I believe in doing quality work. How has been the response to your role? Great! People have been very kind. They have appreciated my performance. My role wasn't advertised so it came as a shock to many people when they finally saw me on big screen. I've been getting a lot of fan mails and compliments from people in the industry as well. So it feels good. What's the best compliment you have got? The best compliment I got is from an industry director. He walked up to me and said, "You reminded me of 80s Vinod Khanna." I've been a big fan of Vinod Khanna's work so it meant a lot to me. Now that you're have made your Bollywood debut, are you planning to quit television? No, it is nothing like that. I think if you have different skills, you should use them all. I still do modelling and host shows. I'm going to continue using all my skills. But obviously my area of focus will be on films now. Because that's the part I haven't explored much. Any directors you would like to work with? I'd definitely like to work with Tigmanshu Dhulia Sir again. There's a long list actually. Anurag Kashyap, Vishal Bharadwaj, Dibakar Banerjee and Imtiaz Ali are a few to name. Who's your inspiration? I actually get inspired by many people. I take their good qualities and try to learn from them. For this role, my dad was my inspiration. What's next? I am going to do more films. Have you been getting lots of offers? Yes, I've received a few. I am reading the scripts. Let's see. Who's your favourite actor? There are many actually. I like Irrfan Khan, Ajay Devgn, Nana Patekar and Aamir Khan. In actresses, I quite like Vidya Balan and Mahie Gill. She's a part of the film and I think she's brilliant. One Bollywood actress you would like to go on a date with? I think I'd like go on a date with Deepika Padukone because she is self-made and she has proved herself as an actress. She's also pretty. How does it feel to share screen space with actors like Irrfan Khan and Jimmy Sheirgill ? It feels great. I couldn't have asked for a better debut. When you watch them doing their part, you realise how experienced they are.
	Anurag unplugged… Anurag Kashyap says he will never remake films from down South. He talks about his meeting with Steven Spielberg and more. Backing Tamil films If you have seen Gangs of Waaseypur, I have dedicated the film to director Bala. He is a rooted and elusive person and I like the way he portrays his characters. His audiences love him so he does not even need to promote his movies. I thought his film Paradesi would do well in the North so I have decided to lend my support to it. Remaking South films I have never remade any movie and I do not believe in it. I feel they bring in the money but there is hardly any creativity and originality in them. But there are some very interesting and inspiring films made by people like Bala and Vetrimaaran. Working with Amitabh Bachchan I have worked with him on my film for Bombay Talkies which will release in May. I have recently wrapped up Ugly and will begin work on Bombay Velvet. After that, I will take up another project with Amitabh Bachchan again. I am yet to finalise the script and the rest of the cast. Playing godfather I am a complete film bug. I express myself through social media and I am very accessible. I stay away from second opinions because then I will not make any film. Opinions take up too much time! I feel Marathi and Tamil cinema has very talented people who need to be encouraged. I have just completed my first Bengali film called Tasher Desh and Marathi film called Vakratunda Mahaakaya. Meeting Steven Spielberg He is extremely humble and down-to-earth despite being such an accomplished and famous filmmaker. I wanted to ask him many questions but felt the platform was not right. A lot of my contemporaries referred to me during the interaction and I wanted to disappear. Sometimes, I wish could be Mr India and be invisible and make films.
	Body basics Serial kisser of Bollywood Emraan Hashmi is ready to go bare for his next movie Ghanchakkar. The actor will take off his shirt and would show his well toned body and abs. In several scenes, he will display his body moves. There is a scene in the film where he will be seen doing stunts inside a moving train. A source close to the film said, "Emraan will go bare body for one of the scenes in the film. He has been maintaining himself really well to take his shirt off for the scene. In Ghanchakkar, he will show his agile self in several scenes." In the film, Emraan is paired opposite Vidya Balan. This is Vidya's first film post marriage. She will be seen in the role of a Punjabi woman and will shed her saree look and wear salwar-kameez. Ghanchakkar is a comedy directed by Rajkumar Gupta.
	A rough start Priyanka Chopra’s item song, Babli Badmaash, gets mired in controversy Shootout At Wadala has been in the thick of controversy from its very inception. The controversy trailed the first track, which is all set to open the film's music campaign. The Priyanka Chopra dance number Babli Badmaash was initially granted an 'A' certificate on the grounds that it was an 'item song'. The CBFC is believed to have received a complaint from some Delhi-based women's body regarding the commodification of women in item songs. The CBFC's decision had the film's producers in a state of shock considering that this new rule had never been communicated to the film industry in the past. Tanuj Garg, CEO - Balaji Motion Pictures confirms, "After submitting Babli Badmaash for certification, we were informed that it would get an 'A' because it was an item track. We informed the CBFC that the industry was not aware of such a rule and that this would warrant a larger discussion between both parties. We were later told by the CBFC that there was no blanket directive and that songs would be certified according to their content." On Monday, the CBFC put Babli Badmaash through the Revising Committee, which cleared the track with a 'U/A' certificate.
	Easy way out Jennifer Aniston is reportedly seeking adoption advice from fellow Hollywood actress Charlize Theron. As she gears up to tie the knot with Justin Theroux, the actress is also speeding up the process of becoming a mother, reported a publication online. The former Friends star has been consulting Theron, who is a close pal of Aniston's best friend Chelsea Handler. Theron is mother to Jackson, an African-American baby boy whom she adopted last year. And while she hasn't decided if she does want to follow in the footsteps of Theron and Sandra Bullock, Aniston now knows if she wants to proceed down that route. "Jennifer has been quizzing Charlize about the adoption process thanks to Chelsea, who put the two in touch with another," a source said. "She's seriously considering that as an option, given her age and the fact that Charlize says it's the most rewarding thing she's ever done. But she hasn't decided entirely, with surrogacy another possibility for Jennifer because she definitely does want to have kids. However, at the moment, she's just concentrating on her wedding to Justin. After that, she will decide what to do next," the source added. — PTI
	Back to the grind Victoria's Secret model Miranda Kerr has returned to work, following her hospitalisation due to a car accident. The 29-year-old was hospitalised after suffering whiplash and back injuries when her vehicle was hit by an alleged drunk driver, reported a publication. Kerr was fitted with a neck brace to aid her recovery. Post hospitalisation, Kerr did a photo shoot for a skincare line. She posted a picture of herself on Twitter and wrote "Easing back into work and shooting for Kora Organics taking it one day at a time...." A man has been arrested in connection with the crash and is expected to be charged by police. — PTI
	CHATTER BOX Travel diaries Actress Roshni Chopra loves to go on a vacation. Whenever she has time, she likes to travel and go shopping. We get her to pick her five favourite places… Around the world: Roshni Chopra New York New York is my most favourite place. It has an amazing vibe and energy. And it is the best shopping place in the world. It's a city that I am addicted to. I just love going there again and again. Udaipur I like the city for its timeless magical quality. It's quaint and has my favourite hotel Udaivillas where I have had one of my most romantic vacations with my husband. I also love the silver jewellery available there. Florence, Italy Florence has got the beat of everything Italian. It is one of the most romantic places that has everything aesthetic about it. I could go back there year after year. My house facing the Himalayas My house is in the foothills of the Himalayas in a village called Nathuakhan - with a 360 degree view of the Himalayas. Bora Bora It’s one place I would love to go to where I have not been as I am a diver and it's one of the best places to go diving. I hope to go there soon. Grapevine has it... According to the rumours, Indo-American model and actress Padma Lakshmi is dating hotelier Vikram Chatwal. Sources reveal that Vikram accompanied Padma Lakshmi during her recent visit to India. The two have been spotted together at many occasions. In denial: Padma lakshmi and Vikram Chatwal The Top Chef host, however, vehemently denied the reports and tweeted: ‘Pls stop the lies. I'm NOT dating anyone or vacationing with or 'cozy' with anyone. Susan S was my only date to Blossom Ball. #singleandfree’ Vikram Chatwal, who has also been linked with international glam girls, including Angela Lindvall, Lindsay Lohan, Kate Moss and Gisele Bündchen, is a billionaire hotelier of Indian descent. Powerhouse of talent Little did anyone know that Boman Irani, who is a talented actor and photographer, is also a very good singer. He strummed the chords of guitar while performing at Nach Baliye 5 during the semi-finals. The actor sang give me some sun shine from his movie 3 Idiots. Vocal treat: Boman Irani International shopaholic Vishal Singh of Saathiya fame is one actor who just loves shopping. Whether it’s the actor’s favourite travel destinations or his favorite places in Mumbai, most of them we hear have to do with shopping. Ask Vishal and he quips, “I absolutely love shopping. I have had a fascination for fashion and clothes for long. Some of my favourite countries to shop include the US, UK and India I love shopping at Palladium.” Well, it seems like Vishal is quite an international shopaholic! Shopping spree: Vishal Singh Bidding adieu After Shilpa Shinde of Chidiya Ghar, Shoaib Ibrahim of Sasural Simar Ka and Jayshree Soni of Rishton Ke Bhanwar Mein Uljhi Niyati, Neha Janpandit of Rab Se Sohna Isshq also quit her show. Neha was promised a major track involving a love triangle—between her, the male lead and the female lead of the show—but it didn't happen. Therefore, she decided to quit the show. Disappointed: Neha Janpandit Style talk Karisma Kapoor is known for her fantastic acting, classy sense of style and her poise. She will mentor new actress Taapsee Mishra who stars in Chashme Baddoor in the fashion and speech during the promotions for the movie. Taapsee is more than happy to meet and train under her idol. Both of them are Punjabi and it seems they will get along well. Star power: Karisma Kapoor Big returns Madhuri Dixit-Nene has been a regular on the social circuit and is earning big bucks in the endorsement game. She will be paid a few crores to endorse a tea brand with her million-dollar smile! Some ladies have all the luck! Money game: Madhuri Dixit Nene Bipasha's blunt take Bipasha Basu is really blunt these days while promoting Aatma. She says that only Vidya Balan gets meaty roles and the rest of the actresses get mostly bad roles that do not do justice to their talent. There are hundred crore films in which the girls do not have much to do. She feels Bollywood needs to write better scripts for actresses to showcase their talent. Role call: Bipasha Basu Following stars’ footsteps Sajid Khan taught Sonakshi Sinha how to do the moonwalk perfectly like Michael Jackson for her song Thank God It's Friday in Himmatwala. The song pays tribute to icons like Madonna and Michael Jackson and also Indian actresses like Zeenat Aman, Parveen Babi and Reena Roy. Dancing duo: Sajid Khan with Sonakshi Sinha Happy reunion Huma Qureshi is shooting in Lucknow but she took a break and flew down to Mumbai for the release of her brother Saqib Saleem's film Mere Dad Ki Maruti. Even her family from Delhi had flown down for the occasion and it was a happy reunion for them. Huma and Saqib stay together in suburban Mumbai and are supportive of each other's careers. Supportive sis: Huma Qureshi Bubble burst Freida Pinto was going to make her debut in Bollywood in a film directed by Navdeep Singh and co-starring Rajkumar Yadav but all has gone for a toss. The producers have pulled back for reasons best known to them. It needs the backing of a major corporate house and could go on the floors later this year if that works out. Long wait: Freida Pinto Confessions of a shopaholic Jacqueline Fernandez has been around the world and is quite a fashion icon. She is currently in Mumbai and happy shopping to her heart's content. She indulges herself in online shopping quite often.
	ASTRO TURF P Khurana ARIES: Consider new business deals. Artists will be acclaimed for their work and make good money. If married, you will bond up with your spouse. However, you will find yourself misunderstood and isolated. Tarot message: You are on the right track and don’t allow others to interfere. Lucky colour: Lotus pink Lucky number: 27 TAURUS: Business and work opportunities will knock on your door. Take one step at a time to climb up the ladder of success. Your consistent endeavours will resolve family disputes. Love blossoms. Tarot message: Resolve business problems wisely. Lucky colour: Black. Lucky number: 59 GEMINI: You will face rivalry on many grounds. Loved ones will spend quality time together. Focus on routine work and maintain a low profile. Business strategies have to be adopted keeping in mind various things. Tarot message: You should pursue your goals with optimism. Lucky colour: Green. Lucky number: 26 CANCER: You have to strive on your own as friends and close relatives will not come to your aid. Poetry and literary gatherings hold your interest today. Domestic life will face turbulence. Tarot message: Your determination to succeed will pay dividends. Lucky colour: Blue. Lucky number: 48 LEO: You will mark your presence in charitable events today. Investment in shares will yield good profits, after the recent uncertain phase. Rejuvenate through good music and have a ball with your loved ones. Tarot message: Don’t allow others to interfere in business. Lucky colour: Peach. Lucky number: 45 VIRGO: Plan out your finances diligently so as to encounter long-term gains and have a secure future. A joyful event at home brings happiness and is enjoyed to the core. Work related journeys are likely. Tarot message: Lack of confidence or lack of caution can result in losses. Lucky colour: White. Lucky number: 25 LIBRA: Thoughts of giving up midway will ponder. For some, a flirtatious encounter is likely and happy distraction this evening. Be extra careful while signing any paper work. Tarot message: Research thoroughly before proceeding in any field. Lucky colour: Red. Lucky number: 50 SCORPIO: Career opportunities increase manifold because of your past consistent efforts. Spending quality time with your partner will be your ultimate priority. A good news concerning a family member is likely. Tarot message: Observe vigilance to seek financial opportunities. Lucky colour: Grey. Lucky number: 58 SAGITTARIUS: Health and physical energy is good but you need to take frequent breaks too. Work will be hectic and you will have to juggle your schedule in order to meet all your commitments. Tarot message: Do not complicate things. Lucky colour: Magenta. Lucky number: 51 CAPRICORN: Your work will be appreciated by your colleagues. If there are important meetings today, you need to be focused and prepared. Seniors and business associates will take note of your ability to handle changes. Tarot message: Don't read too much into ordinary situations. Lucky colour: Yellow. Lucky number: 34 AQUARIUS: You will not be decisive enough. Spend some time mulling over your options and don’t hesitate to discuss things with close associates as that will give you a better perspective. Tarot message: Feel free to encompass changes. Lucky colour: Forest green. Lucky number: 39 PISCES: Students need to fine-tune their plans for higher education. Spending time with loved ones will be on your mind. Monetary matters will bother you today. Tarot message: Worthwhile projects will bring reliable outcomes. Lucky colour: Pink. Lucky number: 57
	THE YEAR AHEAD Madan Gupta Spatu If your birthday is March 17... The Venus becomes exalted on March 17. This is important because according to the Indian system of astrology, it is the Venus that compels you to be in relationships. Venus is associated with love, money, home, car and the procreative aspects of life. If Venus becomes weak, then your life force becomes impaired, and your ability to experience joy leaves you. The three and half weeks, when the Venus moves through the zodiac of Pisces, will be extremely favourable for you to focus on your relationships, and for accumulating wealth and properties. A year of recreation and fun. You will be in the mood to travel and spend money, but you will be sorry if you do that. Family members or spouse will cause some tensions. Work at office will gain momentum as colleagues and seniors extend full cooperation. Creativity and enthusiasm will lead you to another beneficial year. The work climate is more complicated than it appears. In order to perceive the hidden factors and account for the most intricate angles, you'll have to start by admitting what you don't know. The influence of number eight and the Saturn make you ambitious, energetic, confident and a simple person. You possess sharp memory and are always interested in improving your knowledge and skill. To avoid horrid surprises, be organised, punctual and respect rules and laws. Those born in the last decade, should cast aside stubbornness and listen to the opinions of others before rejecting them. Otherwise, they will regret their actions. This year a promotion or an increase in responsibility will give you reasons to celebrate. Mood: Seeking progress. Compatible signs: Pisces, Aries Lucky colours: Light coral, khaki Lucky days: Thursday and Friday. Lucky numbers: 2, 5, 15. 25 Sharman Joshi (March 17,1979) shares his birthday with you. He is a film and theatre actor. In 3 Idiots he played a major role with Aamir Khan and Madhavan. His role in Allah Ke Banday was applauded. He has worked in various stage productions in English, Hindi, Marathi and Gujarati. Rang De Basanti brought him laurels for his comic and emotional role. And who can forget his Golmaal shots. In 2007 he appeared in the multi-starrer film, Life In A Metro, which was a success. In the film Dhol, he did moderately well. He will wow the audience in his forthcoming ventures.