Black & blue
Holi is never about looking beautiful, yet for some the dirtier, the better…
Manpriya Singh

Well, if it's a Holi party, it doesn't necessarily mean it has to be in Holy Spirit!

With due respect to the torch-bearers of green and clean celebrations, there will always be a section that will like it a little messed up. Or shall we say, mucked up? Bring on the ink and the eggs, the paint and the grease, the mud and the tar…if you know what we mean!

Memory bank

You either love the festival or hate it, there are generally no two ways about Holi. Student days are where it all starts. “I remember when we were in Panjab University, once we played a really dirty Holi. There was a gang of 30 bikes going around the city with not just gulaal, but beer, eggs and what not. We had two 'dholki-walas' also with us. It eventually ended at Gandhi Bhawan, where everybody looked all brown and black rather than colourful," says Abhinav Sood, Panjab and Haryana High Court lawyer, about his good old days. This time, he is off to Goa to create some more ruckus!

It's the festival that has played a significant role in several B-town films. Blame it on larger-than-life image or the fun factor associated with the day. “It's once in a year. You have the entire life to take a bath in the morning and go to office. This is one day when you don't have to look sprightly clean," shrugs Karan Singh Chhabra, IBM engineer, while recalling his wild student days, a couple of years back. “We were at this farmhouse where we were mud-fighting and throwing each other into the pond. Our white cars became brown cars. There was ink and nail paint and what not doing the rounds." Good old colours, though, is where it all begins from. “But once you are done with a round of dry colours, followed by water and balloons, that's when you want to intensify it and take it to next level," Vikram Mahajan, city-based businessman, tries explaining why things turn brown and black. He laughs, “We are a group of friends who celebrate each year, generally either at my hotel or farmhouse. We've often played with eggs and once there was even shoe polish." With elders around and interiors to take care of, home, can't be host to wild holy parties. Roads and farms are where it all happens. “If you have an office to attend the next day, you can't celebrate Holi to the hilt. Student days, when holidays are on, are perfect for celebrating," says Amarbir Singh, ICAI student. Each colour signifies a mindset, for some black and brown are colours too.

Moving on

Who hasn't done it at some point of time or the other? For those who've had their wild days, it's time to move on. Ridhima Sidana, B.Com student, says, “It's only a matter of experiencing things once. Those who've celebrated this festival with herbal and organic colours will be hooked on to celebrating it the clean way." Doing things straight can be fun too! She adds, “It is bad only when people treat it like a license to take liberties." The festival might be viewed as a subtle license to take liberties, but there's always a line of control. Opines Karan, “As long as it doesn't get harmful and nobody is being forced into playing with eggs and mud; Holi is about getting bold and not beautiful." manpriya@tribunemail.com

Riot of colour
Holi is fun and this time around add sparkle with herbal colours…
Gurvinder Singh

Colours flying in the air, drums beating and music playing; people meeting and greeting one another - it is time for Holi again and the fervour is sky-high amid Ludhiana folks.

The colours this year can sure add sparkle to the faces your friends and loved ones. And when you know there are also herbal colours around, the smile gets better even as the skin gets a reprieve. “I have started using herbal colours for the last of couple years; these have a very soothing fragrance and are without chemicals," says Abhishek, a businessman from Ludhiana.

As for children, water guns can now be mounted on the back like a rucksack! “Even though you don't like it initially, once you start playing Holi the fun does not end," says Kamini, a homemaker from Ludhiana.

“The festival is real fun because it brings alive the child in you especially when you chase your friends and loved ones as they try to dodge you," smiles Maneet, a businessman. Says Naman, a business executive, “The playfulness and fun associated with Holi is unmatched, provided you are willing to get coloured." Last but not the least, let's not forget the food. “Treats following the fun with colours makes the festival all the more special," says Ritika, a banker.

Say it with colours

Colour therapy is a recognised stream of medicine. You can select your own colour on Holi, and also apply on others, if you know the birth sign to have the best vibration of nature as well as friendship.

Aries - Red - It is the colour of energy, activity, aggression and purity. Pale shades like off white and cream will calm the jostled nerves of an Aries.

Taurus-Sky blue- Sky blue appeals to Taurean senses. Pink and cream are good too.

Gemini -Green- Green is a favourite colour of all Mercurians as it symbolises growth, rejuvenation and creativity.

Cancer -Blue- Blue is best for this sign. White and sea green also keeps these sensitive people at their best. Since full moon will be very near Earth, they must avoid wet Holi and prefer only dry colours.

Leo -Orange- Leos have a penchant for all bright and regal colours like orange, purple, red and gold. Red, orange, bright shades of magenta and bright yellow are just right for them

Virgo -Pastel shades- Pastel and pale shades of all colours, appeal to a Virgo. From peach to mauve to light blue and light pink. For them, colours like bottle green and moss green are preferred.

Libra-Indigo blue- The right colour for this sign is blue or indigo. It is a colour that symbolises balance and harmony in all spheres of life. The other colours that harmonise with a Libran's vibrations are white and pink.

Scorpio- Dark shades- Scarlet and all colours like purple, dark purple, dark shades like maroon, purple, bottle green, red with a shade of black. A Scorpio's tastes vary with the intense mood swings and changing states of mind.

Sagittarius -Yellow- Sagittarians get turned on by yellow colour. It is the colour of optimism, brightness, good spirit and happiness. Although they have an affinity for colours like orange, red, yellow, it is a sign ruled by Jupiter. Red gives them high energy.

Capricorn -Monochrome- Contemplative, serious and reserved. Their love for plain colours like navy blue, indigo and grey remains intact. White compliments them and black and white combinations are an all time favourite.

Aquarius - Psychedelic colours- Aquarians are ahead of their time. They can be called the “new generation colours." Violets and other psychedelic colours appeal to them.

Pisces -Yellow- Their emotions are reflected in yellow. It is the colour of cheer and optimism and uplifts the Piscean spirits. White, peach and mauve also plays upon their dreamy moods.

- Madan Gupta Spatu

Lower your inhibitions
Cool and comfy palazzos, gypsy fold maxi skirts, jumpsuits or hot pants-what's your pick for this summer
Tanya Malhotra

It's time to open your summer wardrobe. Here is an update on lowers that have been hitting the ramp this season. Keeping fashion and comfort in mind, you can shine in these trendy lowers.
Milli Madaan & Pooja Rai sport shorts and coloured pants
STYLE CHECK: Milli Madaan & Pooja Rai sport shorts and coloured pants

Evergreen fabric

Denim, of course never goes out of fashion. And those colourful denim jeans and cotton trousers which was a rage last summer are in vogue.

Apart from the skinny fit jeans and jeggings, this season brings the trend of longer and slouchier, in short, laidback lowers like palazzos and flared pants.

Frill and fun

For the girlie look try out the skirts.

“Skirts with slits, peplum frills and over the waist gypsy fold maxi skirt have hit the international fashion scene. If you want to make a bold statement then go for the hot pants or knee-length Bermuda shorts and team it up with your ballerinas, pumps or wedges," says Karan Puri, a fashion entrepreneur.

Party look

Jumpsuits along with boho maxi dress will be a major hit this summer. Go bold with monochromatic or striped skinny trousers or mix and match dresses with floral and block prints for a classy, casual and yet a glamorous look. Nothing goes unembellished and nothing sparkly goes unnoticed as the summer is all about experimentation!

Office decorum

You can be the glam girl in the office too! “Working with an event management company, I must look presentable and with the long working hours I must feel comfortable in what I am wearing," says Milli Madaan, an employee with Resonance Diversified. “Cotton is the love of my summer life," she laughs. “White and fawn along with pastel colours are the best for the summer. At work, I prefer cotton trousers or elegant linen dresses," she adds.

Traditional fusion

“I love wearing salwars; plain or Patialas, and harem pants. They look very fashionable," says Preeti Bharti, a student at Panjab University.

Young and attractive

For the young and restless, who are under constant pressure to look good, here is a piece of advice! Wear a classic white poplin shirt with shorts or go with a pair of baggy cargo trousers with a dainty top. Or, just walk around in knee length or ankle length leggings (animal, floral and blocks) and opt for that ruffled look.

Fighting the bulge

For those who have some extra ounces to hide, no need to worry! “Wear the zesty colours and some bold prints. Avoid complete skinny fits or complete baggy attires. Also stay away from horizontals prints," says Ria Dhawan, Fashion Designer.

Just remember, fashion is incomplete without an attitude to match!

TROUBLE SHOOTER
When feelings get mixed up…
Simmi Waraich

I liked this boy and he knew about it. However, he didn't take it seriously. Now I am engaged and he told me that he loves me. I know he is seeing a girl too but I am confused as I still care for him. He is good fun and caring but my parents are important to me. I am very upset. I have been unable to sleep and have not gone to work too.

S Kumar, Chandigarh

Sometimes in life we face tough choices. I guess what you can do is write out your thoughts. Pros and cons. If you are serious about this person what steps has he taken? Has he broken off with his girlfriend? If not how is he telling you he loves you? Is he working? Can he support you through thick and thin? If you have doubts about that, then pay attention to your doubts. Those may be right. Talk to your parents. Sometimes parents can surprise you and they can talk to this boy. Things will become clearer. Involve them or a sibling or relative or friend you trust. At the end whatever you decide, first be sure of yourself. Why are you not going to work? Keep work and personal life separate. Work makes us strong and we need to be responsible enough to continue to work no matter what. Many girls give up work for married life which may not workout in the long run unless ones husband is really understanding. You need to see if this man can stand by you. If not, let it go. At the end of the day we just need to have faith in ourselves and that gets us through anything in life.

I was told to have medicine regularly after I had a breakdown after using hashish (Cannabis). I feel I am okay now but the doctor says to take medicines for 3 years. Why?

Manpreet, Patiala

Treatment depends on how long you had symptoms and whether you had symptoms despite not using cannabis for 1-2 months. Your doctors are the best judge. In case of doubts, get a second opinion. If you had problems do not use cannabis again. For some people it can cause recurring illness and so it's an absolute no. It's like if one develops heart disease one has to give up smoking, so similarly.

(Waraich is a Chandigarh-based psychiatrist)

Let’s dance
Tanya Malhotra

On the roller coaster of life, when the mind comes to a halt, striding into a whole new emotive experience is just what you need to keep it going.

"Dreams do come true! Last year it was my dream to open a dance studio and here we are," says Kritka Sharma.

While Kritika, 23, is a belly dancer, Puneet Jewandah, 24 has expertise in street jazz and hip hip.

First impression

When you first enter the engine room, this is what you see--an engine. With machines for a backdrop, a ship container-cum-changing room dominates the room. Puneet laughs, "Yes, it's a ship's engine. It symbolises the conversion of power into motion." Kritika adds.

For all

"Chandigarh has a lot of potential but very less opportunities. After much brainstorming, we realised what the city needs is a transforming experience for all-- the beginners to professional dancers. Additionally, our dance fitness sessions include hardcore workout for men as well."

What's next?

"We are not a clichéd dance studio. It's a place for artistes and breaking all barriers, we hope rope in choreographers from abroad to bring in more exposure. Apart from that we will have some live bands performing jam sessions and much more," says Puneet.

Sinful temptations
Serena Miglani

Sugar glazed dense chocolate donut ...Just the mention of the moist crumbed treat is enough to make the sweet tooth lovers go week on the knees. Your gluttonous splurge is set to get all the more delightful as Dunkin' Donuts & more, opens up in Chandigarh at DLF Citycentre, IT Park. Being the tenth chain in the country, with nine chains already in the Delhi NCR region, Dunkin' Donuts is a lot more than just donuts. There is an assortment of food and beverages with the splendid breakfast options, lunch menu including bagels, sandwiches, smoothies, milkshakes and the quintessential hot, cold coffee and tea. The eatery caters to provide the facilities of a quick service restaurant along with that of a coffee shop, to give eating out that hunky dory touch. "Customer these days have evolved tremendously and the bar of expectations have increased. We at Dunkin' Donuts aim at providing strong quality, piquant taste and quick service so that there is a great value for money," says Dev Amritesh, president and COO, Dunkin' Donuts.

So what all is there in the delectable carte du jour? Death by chocolate donut, classic glazed donut, chocolate Bavarian cream donut with their satisfying crust and moist interior adds to the gourmet experience. Furthermore, talking of the sinful delights, Bagel with cream cheese, croissant paprika salami sandwich, shredded chicken croissant sandwich and the robust meatball marinara sandwich are scrumptious. To add to the gorging spree, slurp on some Dunkin' cold coffee, yummy milkshakes and the must try ice tea. The best part of the deal...the heavenly pleasure can be relished without pinching your pocket! So, pamper your taste buds and dig in the melting feast.

Singing all the way
Serena Miglani

Success strikes if you have a substantial foundation and if the journey begins as early as seventeen, the gain is there from the start! A look at the young prodigy Devendra Pal Singh and you know he is indeed 'terrific' with his calm demeanor and remarkable confidence. In Chandigarh to inaugurate Indian Idol Junior audition booth, Devendra considers Indian Idol as an apt platform to win one's way in singing. "Sony television provides an appropriate platform for the young aspiring singers. Now with Indian Idol Junior, the discovery for the melodious prowess will increase manifold," says Devendra who himself shot to fame through the reality show and was a runner- up in season six.

The beginning

Speaking of the auditions, how did it all began? And he smiles, "Coincidently, I also auditioned for Indian Idol in Chandigarh and since then, there has been no looking back. Chandigarh has already produced amazing talent in the past and looking at the trend, the number will surely increase." The versatile singer, who is trained under Ustad Sukhwant Singh, regards classical training in music as an important attribute to hone your skill and add finesse in singing. His astounding voice quality and simple, non contrived way of singing has been immensely appreciated by the judges on the show especially Asha Bhosle. "Being Lata ji's favourite is the best compliment one can receive." adds Devendra.

Well-sized stardom

"My life has changed completely after Indian Idol and it is elating to see crowd enjoy your performance. But even if you carve a niche for yourself and rise to fame, never forget your values and be pompous," says Devendra.

Just a start

The young singer has lent his melodious voice for the album India's Fabulous Four which is a compilation of the songs sung by the top four contestants of season six. His songs jaane kyun and pal have a harmonious blend of melody and are mesmerising. The Punjabi munda has also voiced a song luni hasi in Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana and is looking forward to many Bollywood projects.

Terrific tune
The final day of Pracheen Kala Kendra's Nritya and Sangeet Sammelan commenced propitiously with the sarod recital by Pandit Narendra Nath Dhar
Tanya Malhotra

One of the most celebrated sarod players and the finest exponent of the Senia gharana, Pandit Narendra Nath Dhar captivated the audiences of Chandigarh on Sunday with his profound talent.

A disciple of Pandit Radhika Mohan Moitra and Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Narendra is known for his distinctive style. Hailing form Kolkata, Narendra has an experience of almost forty years in music.
Pandit Narendra Nath
Pandit Narendra Nath

Legacy leads

Coming form a musical background, it was only a matter of time when he realised his fervor for music. "I lost my father, Nemaichand Dhar at a very early age. He was a great sarod player of his times. Music means more to me that just a profession or passion. It's my father's legacy," he adds.

Fusion fervor

Pandit Narendra Nath is absolutely comfortable with the new drift in music, "I decorate my presentations according to the audience I am expecting. For instance, when I perform in Chennai, Bangalore and Thiruvananthapuram, I carry out jugalbandis with Carnatic music.

Music mania

"Music is much more that just entertainment. It's a mode of worship," he says. Although, he believes that there is absolutely no harm in carrying the new trend of music, he further remarks, "just value the roots of the music first." He adds, "It's my duty to propagate music," and for that he teaches music at the Bhatkhande Music Institute, Lucknow.

TRENDSETTER
Chic choice

A beauty queen, winner of many beauty pageants; she is all about style! She is a brilliant cook and an incredible singer. With a gleam in her eyes and a confident smile, Gurpreet Sudan talks about her take on fashion.

Your sense of style?

Chic.
Gurpreet Sudan
Gurpreet Sudan

Latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories?

Two stilettos in red and neutral shade.

Brand crazy or street pick-up?

Blend of both.

Who would be your style icon?

Malaika Arora Khan.

Who do you think is the worst-dressed celebrity?

Rakhi Sawant.

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

It has to be chic.

One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension...

Torn jeans.

Your take on accessories?

When used in a perfect blend, accessories can really make an ordinary dress stand out.

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

Manish Malhotra.

(As told to Tanya Malhotra)

STAR TRACK
Abhishek unplugged!
Abhishek Bachchan
In the pipeline: Abhishek Bachchan

Abhishek Bachchan has come a long way since his Refugee days. A man of conviction, he recently entered the 100 crore club with his performance in Bol Bachchan. Junior Bachchan talks about work, his life, daughter and more…

On Aaradhya

Aaradhya is the centre of our universe. She's a wonderful child. All credit to Aishwarya for being a terrific mother. Fatherhood has changed me. Bringing a child into the world changes all your priorities. I am sure every parent would agree.

On 100-crore club

It doesn't matter which club an actor belongs to. He still approaches every role with the same trepidation and waits, with fingers crossed, for the viewers' verdict. I think the 100-crore club is the new substitute for what the silver or golden jubilee used to be in those times.

On Rohit Shetty

Well, Bol Bachchan was my second film with Rohit and Ajay Devgn. It is a joy to work with them. I'm thankful to both for thinking of giving me Bol Bachchan. I had a ball doing it. As an actor, I had to depend entirely on the written word. All the humour comes from the spoken word. My only proof that my performance was working was my crew and others on the sets. They seemed to be enjoying what was going on.

Home coming 

Actress Freida Pinto during the Lakme Fashion Week 2013 in Mumbai
Actress Freida Pinto during the Lakme Fashion Week 2013 in Mumbai. — PTI

On Dhoom

It's shaping up very well. We're bang in the middle of the shoot. And it would be releasing for Christmas this year. And I am excited. It's wonderful to be back in the franchise with Uday Chopra. In all modesty, I don't think there would be a Dhoom without a Jai and an Ali. So going into another Dhoom is like continuing with the adventures of Jai and Ali. And this time, we've the pleasure of welcoming Aamir into the Dhoom fold. I am very excited to be working with him for the first time. The whole process of watching him at work is very enriching.

On Dostana 2

It starts later during the year. Director Tarun Mansukhani has finally cracked the script. And we're all very happy with it. I appreciate the effort that Karan Johar and Tarun have made into ensuring the sequel moves ahead of the first film. When a film is as successful as Dostana, it is very tempting to follow it up quickly with a sequel. But history has taught us to be very careful about the sequel.

On Amitabh Bachchan

I hope at 70 I'd be spoken about in a similar manner. But there can never be another Amitabh Bachchan. His preparation and dedication took him where he is. We can only emulate him. I religiously watched him on KBC. His connectivity with people is spontaneous.
Bipasha Basu
All praise: Bipasha Basu

Round of applause

Bipasha Basu, who has worked with National Award-winning actor Nawazuddin Sidiqqui in her latest release Aatma, just can't stop praising her co-star. After all, he has won a National Award. She says she is proud of having worked with the credible actor that he is. She is also very proud that he has won such a prestigious award. Well, that's good since they will be seen together in the sequel of the film.
Sunny Leone
Screen space: Sunny Leone

Sunny sizzles on stage

Adult star Sunny Leone, recently, gave a sizzling performance at the music launch of her upcoming film Shootout at Wadala. Sunny has an item number in the film. Dressed in a sexy black ghaghra-choli, she set the stage on fire with her raunchy dance moves and stole the show. Priyanka Chopra and Sophie Choudry, who also have an item number in the film, couldn't excite the audience as much as Sunny. But the real gossip is that Priyanka is not too happy over sharing item girl credits with the porn star. Insiders say that she doesn't want to be compared with Sunny. Well, too late Priyanka!
Katy Perry
Break time: Katy Perry

On a serious note

Pop star Katy Perry and singer John Mayer reportedly broke up because they were getting too serious.

This isn't the first time that Mayer, 35, and Perry, 28, have taken a break from one another. They briefly split in August of 2012 before getting back together the next month, reported a publication online. "Introducing her to his dad was a big deal. It was just too much, too soon. They've also been fighting recently," a source said. However, the duo's friends are unsure if the split will be permanent. "It's hard to tell. She's changed a lot since she's been with him," the source added. — PTI


In the lap of luxury
Brad Pitt can’t wait to take his family sailing in his new yacht
Brad Pitt
Family first: Brad Pitt

Hollywood superstar Brad Pitt has reportedly purchased a sleek luxury yacht for a whopping 5 million pounds for his family. The 49-year-old actor had to sell his share in a French vineyard at Chateau Miraval to garner extra money for the yacht, reported a publication online.

The actor, who is currently away from his family, is keen to take them sailing in his new yacht. "Brad's always wanted a classic sail yacht and this one is perfect. It sleeps eight but you can have more on board if you are just going out for a day," a source said.

"He loves the idea of taking the kids out around the islands along the coast of the South of France near St Tropez," the source added. That sounds great. Pitt has six children with actress Angelina Jolie. — PTI

Once bitten, twice shy!
A still from the movie
Dream team: A still from the movie

How can it be that you've Emraan Hashmi in your film and you don't have a kissing scene? His image has surely gone beyond that of being just a serial kisser. But still, people want to see him kissing and eventually, it becomes an integral part of the script. He has an intimate scene with Huma Qureshi in Ek Thi Daayan. The scene was shot with only technicians on the sets as Emraan was getting conscious. However, it was Huma who took charge and made him comfortable for a lip-lock. We are surprised that he has been there, done that and is still shy!

One man army

Actor Arshad Warsi, who is a close friend of Sanjay Dutt, is shocked to hear about his prison sentence. The two were supposed to begin working on their film Munnabhai soon. But now, Arshad says that he cannot be a part of Munnabhai without him. He says that the film is not possible without Sanjay Dutt.

chatter box
Different hues of togetherness

This year, celebrate Holi with SAB TV as it brings to you SAB Ki Holi, which is the first ever exclusive event that portrays different flavours of Holi. SAB Ki Holi, anchored by Dilip Joshi and Disha Wakhani of Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashma, will introduce the theme of the event through a semi-patriotic act performed by several artistes, including Balveer, Meher, Piyush, Bakula and Bhavesh, who will portray different cultures of India. Promising a combination of fun and entertainment to its viewers, the event will showcase cultural acts of different states and regions, including Pahadi act, Punjabi act, Rajasthani folk dance, comedy acts and puppet act, which will be performed by popular artistes of SAB TV, who will also dance to the medley of Holi songs.

During the show, Gia Manek will perform a popular act, Brij ki Raas Leela, with her co-stars, Ali Asgar and Navina. While Shama Sikander and Karan Godwani will perform entertainment and Punjabi Act, Aamir Ali and Devyanka will present the Rajasthan Puppet Act. Also, Karan Grover, Pooja Pihal and Muskaan Mihani will perform the Pahadi dance act while Karishma Tanna and Debina Banerjee will present the Navrang Act.

The special show will also capture the famous Lath Maar Holi dance act by Jeetu Shivhare and Mandakini Srivastav of Chidiyaghar. Moreover, the channel has looped in famous Langa Brothers for the Rajasthani folk performance. The troupe will perform on traditional songs, including Kesariya balam aawo re padharo mahre desh and holiya mein ude re gulal. You can also see Babita, Iyer, Bhide and Madhavi of Tarak Mehta ka ulta chashma perform the Dahi Handi act during the show.

Also, the viewers will also get to watch hilarious comedy acts themed Black and White Holi (performed by Sunil Grover and Sugandha Mishra), Bura Na Maano Holi Hai (by Chitrashi Rawat and Kapil), Lath Maar Comedy Act (by Bharti Singh and Gaurav Gera), Rajasthani Camel Act (performed by Paresh Ganatra and Krushna).

Don't forget to watch Sab Ki Holi on March 27, 9 to 11 pm only on SAB TV.

The young and vivacious

Sanaya Irani will soon be back on TV with her new show Chhan Chhan, where she will be seen essaying the role of a vivacious and bubbly girl. The actress talks about the new show, her role and more.
Sanaya Irani
Clean and clear: Sanaya Irani

Tell us about your character Chhan Chhan…

Chanchan is a modern girl. She is as real as any other girl and believes in herself. She follows her heart and does what is right. She was named Chhan Chhanas because she fancies wearing payal (anklet) since childhood.

Is your character in Chhan Chhan similar to that of Khushi's in Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon?

Yes, there are some similarities like both are frank, vivacious and bubbly, but that's all. Chhanchhan is fun, while Khushi was goofy and crazy. Chhan chhan is just today's normal girl.

Which character is the real Sanaya closer to?

Chhan chhan and I are very similar. I am glad that the show has characters that are real as the audience can relate to them.

Is it true that your boyfriend, Mohit Sehgal had auditioned for the role but he didn't get the part?

Yes, and so didn't many of my friends. But I wonder why everybody wants to know about Mohit and nobody else.

Buzz is that the show is inspired from film Khubsoorat, is it true?

Well, I have not seen the film so I don't know. I have been told that my role is similar to that of Rekha's but because I haven't seen the film, I can't comment on anything.

Good, bad and greedy
Karanvir Bohra
Off the mark: Karanvir Bohra

Buzz is that the popular baddie of small screen, Karanvir Bohra, refused to shoot for Zee TV's Holi extravaganza, Ladakpan Ki Holi till he was given a cheque. A source informed, "Karanvir is a good dancer and that’s the reason why he was asked to be a part of the event. Though we have had a good experience while working with him in the past, this time, he insisted on taking his cheque first rather than shooting for the act. This is not the way things work in the industry and everybody knows that. Besides irking the crew, his behaviour also ticked off other actors, who were going to be a part of the same act. The shoot got delayed unnecessarily as he refused to budge." Moreover, once the channel relented to his wishes and gave him the cheque, the actor did something rather odd! As soon as his act got over, he walked off with the costume was given to him to be worn for the shoot!

Well, what can we say? It seems like Karanvir got up on the wrong side of the bed that day!
The lead of Jeannie Aur Juju
In high sprits: The lead of Jeannie Aur Juju

And it's a century!

Jeannie Aur Juju completed 100 episodes last Friday. Since its launch, the show has attracted many eyeballs and everyone loves watching the show at 9.30 pm on SAB TV. Incidentally, the show is slowly coming under the category of the channel's long-running projects. Giaa Maanek said, "I love playing the role of a Jeannie and the immense love that I have received from my fans." Also, Ali Asgar who plays Juju said, "I am happy that the show completed 100 episodes and I hope to keep the audience entertained in the upcoming episodes too.



Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Meeting a delightful companion is likely. Appreciate all the strengths of your relationship. Mixed trends are indicated in the evening. Domestic worries will clutter. Tarot message: Keep a check on your finances. Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 27

TAURUS: A bubbly mood in good company relieves the heaviness of pending duties and responsibilities on your plate for the days to come. Sleeplessness will cause disturbance. Tarot message: Avoid getting tangled in empty promises. Lucky colour: Rust. Magic number: 63

GEMINI: Learning processes and communication endeavors will be effective. Changes made today will certainly appear to be for the best. An engagement or marriage will be in the wings. Tarot message: Be honest. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 27

CANCER: You will be free to operate at your will. Relatives will be helpful. Speculation in property is not favoured. Legal matters will encounter delays. Be patient as the system grinds through its process. Tarot message: Act wisely and stay optimistic. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 57

LEO: Stay positive in situations which will try to try to pull your morale down. Be patient. A run-in with an aggressive person may spoil the day. Tarot message: Steer clear of trouble and don't react to provocation. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 56

VIRGO: Luck will be in your favour. Health needs attention. Enjoy yourself today while you indulge in artistic and cultural experiences. Tarot message: A positive and caring attitude heals old wounds in relationships. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 51

LIBRA: The Knight of Wands promises a high-profile day. Expect kindness and generosity from loved ones. Give way to minor issues. Keep your finances in order. Tarot message: Stay focused on your goals. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 52

SCORPIO: Your card ‘The Fool’ reveals deceptions and delays at work. Do not loose hope. Romance will grab your attention, go with the flow. Take care of your health. Tarot message: Your efforts will pay off today. Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 50

SAGITTARIUS: Pay more attention to diet. Today you should be able to surprise your boss by showing the adjusting side of your nature. Evening will be spent in the company of family members. Tarot message: Begin moving from thoughts to action. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 27

CAPRICORN: Today finances will be strong. This is a good time for parents to deal with youngsters. You are likely to be very moody today. There might be a few delays today. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 29

AQUARIUS: Personal and professional communication will be needed to deal with people. Finances will be in order. Health needs immediate attention. Tarot message: Do not stray from the course you have taken so far and be possitive. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 64

PISCES: Today fear of loss of reputation or slander will grip you. Be courageous about a new investment opportunity. Urgent demands on the domestic front need immediate attention. Tarot message: Your efforts would gain momentum, keep your focus. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 48.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is March 25...

You will like to overspend on others and the domestic scene will be somewhat unpredictable. Do not enter into any joint venture as partners will try to take advantage of you. Don't run from a situation. Overall health will be fine but travel will prove hectic and stressful. You will make substantial gains if you invest on long-term basis. An old friend will make an unexpected visit bringing back pleasant memories. Your beloved will seek commitment. Watch out for an individual, who might try to mislead you or give you information that might cause you some harm. Financial difficulties can lead to arguments, so be prepared to say no to those who expect too much from you. To avoid conflicts, listen to what others have to say. Do your work to remain in the good books of your boss. You follow the path of selflessness and humanitarianism; therefore, you can work very well with people. However, you take time to be by your self in order to rest and meditate. Your birthday helps you to be broadminded, tolerant, generous and cooperative. You use persuasion rather than force to achieve your goals. Also, you tend to be very sensitive to others' needs and feelings, because of which you give much in the way of friendship without expecting a lot in return. You are nfluenced by number 7 and the planet Neptune.

Mood: Aware of 'emotional powder kegs'

Compatible Signs: Taurus, Virgo.

Lucky Colours: Orange, Purple.

Lucky Days: Monday and Wednesday.

Lucky Numbers: 2, 10, 19, 21, 100

Farooq Shaikh, (March25, 1948, Baroda), contributed a lot to the parallel cinema during the 70s and 80s. He has worked with many directors, including Satyajit Ray, Muzaffar Ali, Hrishikesh Mukherjee and Ketan Mehta. Besides acting on television, he has also performed in Tumhari Amrita. Also, he hosted the popular TV show, Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai, on Zee TV. He has acted in several films, including Shatranj Ke Khiladi, Noorie and Chashme Buddoor.





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