Of rhythm & expression
Sahana Balasubramanya and Nehha Bhatnagar are carrying the rich legacy of Bharatnatyam forward with elan…

Mona

In their twenties, Sahana Balasubramanya and Nehha Bhatnagar are just like many others in their generation — lively, independent, tech savvy — only they have carved a unique identity for themselves. The young Bharatnatyam dancers, who have been training under Guru Saroja Vaidyanathan for close to two decades, were in Chandigarh for a recital on the invite of Pracheen Kala Kendra on Friday. The artists share excerpts from their incredible journey.

What made you go for Bharatnatyam?

Sahana: I saw Rama Vaidyanathan on stage when I was all of three. I went home and told my parents that I wanted to learn the dance form. I had to wait till I was seven to start training under my Guru Saroja ji, who warned that the first two years were the hardest. They just flew by and I fell deeply in love with my dance.

Nehha: My mother always appreciated classical dance, but never had a chance to pursue any. So she enrolled me in classes when I was four. I rebelled to begin with; it was so strict. But with time it grew on me. It's my life now.

What does Bharatnatyam signify to you?

Sahana & Nehha: One can explain to a layman by breaking the name Bha = Bhav (expression), Ra = Raag (melody), Ta = Taal (rhythm), Natyam = dance; it's a complete art form. Personally, we feel blessed to be the medium between the divine and the audience, as well as narrate the mythological tales on stage. Bharatnatyam uplifts you (quite akin to yoga actually) physically, mentally and spiritually, and has a unique grounding effect.

What are the themes that you have lately worked upon?

Sahana & Nehha: We do lots of mythological stories, but in a new light. Ardhnarishwar is an age-old concept, our presentation on the same stands for gender equality. With our Guru Saroja Ji, we have done ballets on Subramanya Bharathi's poems and brought to the fore the concept of women empowerment. We need to accept that evils like dowry do exist in certain pockets of our country and we need to do away with them.

How has been the experience of performing around the world?

Sahana & Nehha: It has been amazing. With our Guru, we have been part of every major dance festival across India, which has been a huge exposure. We have also given performances in countries like China, Kazakhstan, Honk Kong, Latvia and the US. Latvia is a country where the suicide rate is the highest in winter in Eastern Europe. We performed in November in their Congress Hall, not only did we get a standing ovation but their leader thanked us for giving so many people a few more days to live. Such is the beauty and power of classical dance.

What garners the most curiosity when you perform Bharatnatyam at different platforms?

Sahana & Nehha: Temple jewellery, which is part of our costumes. Each piece is just not aesthetic but serves a larger significance. Mattals that cover the ears protect the dancer from loud noise, sun and moon cover the pressure points on the head helping in better memory (we have to remember so many pieces) and the belt keeps the spine erect for better posture.

How do see classical arts doing in India?

Sahana & Nehha: Over the years, people have been showing appreciation for our classical forms. It's like going back to the roots. Our culture has been a strong foundation that we need to preserve and propagate.

Where do you see yourself in the future?

Sahana: Dance would always be there and my efforts to better myself as an artiste would continue. I am a postgraduate in mathematics and hope to pursue PhD in it.

Nehha: I would like to open my own dance school some day. I am Masters in International Relations and through my foundation Sarvam, I would continue to propagate our rich art forms.

mona@tribunemail.com

The world on your plate!
When it comes to food, Chandigarh residents are as experimental as it can get. No wonder cuisines from various parts of the world are finding their niche here…
Manpriya Singh

We've had our brush with Teppenyaki, if not close then quite close. Italian and Thai cuisines are the new Chinese! A string of gourmet cafes brought in their own share of introductions. Food festivals took care of the rest. Is there any left? The culinary vocabulary might be infinite, but Chandigarh has long taken its baby steps towards familiarisation with world cuisines. There are still many that the city needs to experience.

Cuisine corner

Till the communities of the world refuse to come together, it's the cuisines doing the needful! It all started with Chinese food, till the chopsuey's and manchurian's became a part of the boring weekday dinners. Italian cuisine was the next in row for the city's food lovers. Pizza became a staple, as samosa and the spaghetti and Lasagna became a part of the common parlance. Oregano Restaurant and Bar at JW Marriott, was the high point for Italian lovers. The Virgin Courtyard, promising to serve progressive Italian cuisine, further added to the options. "There are still a lot of cuisines that I feel are not available in Chandigarh, for example the authentic and traditional French cuisine. Whatever little is available is in Indianised form. Then there's Mongolian cuisine that the city could well take to," opines TK Razdan, principal, Chandigarh Institute of Hotel Management. He adds, "We once put up a Mongolian food stall at Chandigarh carnival and the response of people was great. It's more like barbecue food so likely to synchronise with people's tastebuds."

Original flavour

There are some trying to introduce the authentic flavours and dishes. Shares Kito Singh, of Viva Mexico, "The USP of our place is that we serve authentic Mexican and not Indianised or experimented versions of the cuisine." Italian is on its way to becoming the new Chinese. Says Taahir Vohra, chef with a city based caterers, "Apart from Indian and Chinese, Italian is the next most popular cuisine to be served at weddings." He adds, "On second thoughts, it's the Russian food and dishes that people are yet to be introduced to."

Moving on, Orchid Lounge brought in the flavours from the Orient. Soon, there were Thai starters and soups that were doing the rounds instead of the Indian appetisers. We were yet to learn about the Bedouin, the desert residing tribes from Arabia, when we were tasting their food at Café Nomad, in the form of Saaz, hummus, pita bread and loads of olive oil! "I feel we are yet to explore the various Latin American cuisines in its totality. For example, we've experienced Mexican but not the food from Peru. The cuisine that has a lot of potatoes, corns and is supposed to be spicy," shares Saddi, a chef from the Taj, Chandigarh. Takeaway counter Jaffa, filled in the wee bit Lebanese needs, while Hotel Icon, reportedly, initiated Teppanyaki, a style of Japanese cooking into the city!

Come to think of it, there's Greek cuisine, that's yet to become a part of dinner vocabulary. Heavily influenced by Turkish and Italian cuisine, it is focused around olive oil, vegetables and herbs specific to the Mediterranean region.

manpriya@tribunemail.com

An eye for detail
Actor Karan Kundra, who is coming up with the movie Rum Pum Poshsh, is a perfectionist as far as his work is concerned...
Jasmine Singh

Spell the words glycerine, rona dhona, 18-19 hours shift… actor Karan Kundra would immediately reach for the eighteenth floor of the building… "I would jump rather than cry throughout the episode of a television serial," says the actor who is sure about what he wants to do on screen and what not!

The actor shoots for an untitled Punjabi film while being regular with his workshops. You can't help notice the lanky look, short tuft on his head and those really wide tattoos. Another Ghajini, we wonder. "The man who made tattoos for Aamir Khan has made these for me, this is the only similarity," he takes a good look at the extensive work himself.

Well, all this work is for Karan's upcoming movie Rum Pum Poshsh. "The movie is being directed by Sam, who was an assistant director in Mission Impossible 4 and this is his first Bollywood movie. I play an international deejay. I have lost weight and hair for this movie, and I have tattoos all over," shares Karan, who can't help mentioning the detailing that goes into movie-making. "All these physical changes are done well before the shoot so that I get comfortable with my look and character."

Now, this certainly is not the case with television; detailing doesn't figure here, only kancheevarams and plenty of sobs!

"TV is more into daily telecast; detailing or acting is not something they focus on. Besides, I have never done anything like this on TV as well; I have done shows that are more youth-related like Channel V's Gumraah," he says. Karan has received appreciation for this show based on real-life incidents and he likes to be a part of it, "Whatever I am doing, I would always be part of `. There is no exaggeration on the show, no acting, it is real and the audience can feel it," he adds.

Karan has finished shooting for Vikram Bhatt's film Horror Story and the actor had a great time.

All this Bollywood talk doesn't take away Punjabi films from this Punjabi lad. "I am shooting for two Punjabi films. I haven't seen a single different Punjabi film for a long time, everyone is doing comedy. I think it is time for a different genre," he adds. He doesn't forget to mention the word detailing!

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Doc Talk
Screening the sun
Dr Vikas Sharma

Choosing the perfect product depends not on brands, but on sunscreen ingredients. The importance of sunscreen safety plays a major role in healthier and younger-looking skin.

The sun radiates two kinds of rays; UVB, which causes tanning or sunburn and UVA that's responsible for skin cancer and ageing. Many sunscreens claim to block both, but actually provide UVB protection only. According to the World Cancer Society, UVA can be up to 1000x more intense than UVB! So, what is the best sunscreen for the face and body?

The key ingredients to search for UVA defense are Mexoryl or Mexoryl-Sx, Avobenzone or 3 per cent (not 2 per cent) Parsol 1789, Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide. The first two are called chemical sunscreen ingredients. Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide is the physical sunscreen ingredients, usually in opaque form and best for sensitive skin or babies. These are better than chemical sunscreens although less preferred because of its opacity.

Know the common facts

Myth: "Oh I am wearing a sunscreen having an SPF of 80, so I need not worry at all.

Fact: Are you sure? It's not simple math. Our Indian skin requires minimum SPF of 15. More important is that the sunscreen should have both UVA and UVB blocking ingredients rather than a higher SPF.

Myth: "I stay indoors most of the time. I don't need sunscreen!"

Fact: UVA rays can easily penetrate all windows and shades. Vehicles, offices, homes and even airplanes; the truth is, it's worse because of the higher elevation!

Myth: "I cover my face and arms with sunscreen. I don't need it for areas covered with clothes."

Fact: That's fine for short sun 'trips'. But for prolonged exposure like outdoor sports or job, cover your entire body with sunscreen. Did you know the average cotton shirt has an SPF of only 5?

Myth: "I'm using sunscreen with built-in moisturiser!"

Fact: Use a separate moisturiser and sunscreen. That is proper protection. Fifteen minutes after moisturising, apply your sunscreen.

For dry skin, it is always advisable to use cream-based sunscreen. While in the case of oily skin, oil-free sunscreen lotion is preferred. There is no particular age group to apply SPF. In fact, even kids are being recommended the use of sunscreen to avoid sun damage at an early stage. Studies have shown that 90 percent of ageing is caused by sun damage.

How to apply

Sunscreen should be applied properly to all sun exposed areas (in a concentration of 2 mg/cm 2) and allowed to dry completely before exposure. It should be reapplied every three hours, and after swimming, vigourous activity, excessive perspiration or towelling.

Teaspoon rule

3 ml (slightly more than half a teaspoon)
for each arm
or the face and neck
6 lL (slightly more than a teaspoon)
for each leg
for the chest
for the back

(Dr Sharma is a Chandigarh-based skin specialist)

Master Chef
Just chill
Manju Dewan

As summer sets in completely, we start looking for cool drinks to quench our thirst. We are always game for a variety of drinks, especially trying to keep away from the usual cola drinks. We have made this energising drink from vegetables adding the necessary fizz to get the feel of fizzy cold sip.

Red Bell Pepper and Carrot Booster

Ingredients:
3 carrots
4 tomatoes
2 red bell peppers (medium-sized)
1 cup club soda
2 tsp lemon juice
½ tsp freshly ground black pepper powder

Method:
Put coarsely chopped carrots, tomatoes and bell pepper in a food processor and blend it to make a smooth paste.
Strain it to get rid of chunks. Transfer it to the food processor; add club soda, lemon juice and black pepper powder and blend again.
Pour into glasses and sprinkle some black pepper powder on it. Serve chilled.

(Dewan is a Ludhiana based culinary expert)

— As told to Poonam Bindra

Weaving in the best

An exhibition by the Rashtriya Sanskriti Samaj Avom Sabhayata, an NGO that works for the development of underprivileged weavers,enters the last day at the Lajpat Rai Bhawan, Sector-15, Chandigarh. The society has been providing training, design and marketing facilities to the identified under privileged weavers and artisans.

Says Rakesh, president of the society, "Exhibitions and craft bazaars are the only ways of bringing weavers and the customers together. The society has been providing platform and thereby giving the customer a room to buy the products of their choice and on the other hand allowing the weavers to sell their products at a cheaper prices thus eliminating the middlemen."

The products on display at the Weaves & Weavers exhibition are printed fabrics, cotton and silk, home furnishing like Kalamkari rugs, Gudari, Punja durries, table cloths, printed and weaved bed covers, curtains, ready to wear kurtis, salwar kameez, dupatta.

Punjabi Scope
Time for serious stuff
Jasmine Singh

Movie: Bikkar Bai Sentimental
Director: Gautam Nagrath
Cast: Jassi Jasraj, Pretty Jhangiani, Shahbaz Khan
Rating: **

After a lot of time, nobody laughed; no punches (the ones related to the funny bone), no jokes… Bikkar Bai Sentimental directed by Gautam Nagrath meant business. The business of offering a different kind of cinema, a cinema that thankfully doesn't fall into the category of a romcom!

Starring Jassi Jasraj, Preeti Jhangiani, Shahbaz Khan, Bobby Sandhu and others, this movie definitely creates a new genre, called the film with a difference. But in a period where romcoms are ruling the roost, where no one minds some romance and comedy, will this difference make a difference?

The director Gautam Nagrath has tried to do a fairly acceptable job of carrying the story (written pretty well) through, especially when it comes to channelising Jassi Jassraj's energy.

The singer-actor looks every bit a pluck from one of the villages of Punjab, playing Bikram Singh, but if only he knew where to tone down a bit.

For a first-timer, Jassi has done a good job; let's hope he doesn't go over the top. His expression are in control, with moments he forgets this is a film and not theatre! Not every dialogue needs to be yelled at the face!

As for the pretty face, Pretty Jhangiani, she looks good, says her Hindi-Punjabi-English dialogues well; everything is cool save for the ill-fitted overflowing suits!

The story of Bikkar Bai Sentimental deserves a mention as it takes you through the daily encounters of corruption here and there, and how a common man decides to pick a pawa (wooden leg of a bed) and fight.

You wouldn't do that, this is cinema. The fact that the aam admi has to bear the brunt of small to highest level of corruption, starting from a bottle of a cold drink being sold for double the price to paying extra for a school kids' admission, finds favour with the audience. Yet another actor, Shahbaz Khan has pulled his character very well. Strong baritone voice and judicious use of expressions makes him all the more likeable.

It is also the transformation of Bikram Singh to Bikkar Bhai, which makes for an interesting watch. Overall, it does go over-the-top sometimes, but it is the 'no laughter' element that gets this movie a brownie point. The music of the film unlike other Punjabi films that we have seen in the past doesn't reach to 'let's-sing-and-dance' level save for Diljit Dosanjh's song towards the end Main Fan Bhagat Singh Da!

Bikkar Bai Sentimental is an attempt to open a new genre in Punjabi cinema that definitely needs a look, but how far can you be away from love and romance!

First-day-first show
Scary to the core

Ek Thi Daayan: is a Bollywood adaptation of the film Once there lived a Witch and it features Emraan Hashmi, Konkona Sen Sharma, Huma Qureshi and Kalki Koechlin in the lead roles.

Dark and spooky

I really love the storyline of the film; it runs shivers down your spine. It is dark cinema, but is not truly scary. My favourite moment is when the kids high-five each other by the torchlight.

Disha Arora, student

Not typical

I like the way the story picks up in the second half, however, I did not quite like the ending, which was too typical of Bollywood films. Nevertheless, I like the scary bits.

Karanvir Singh, student

Spine-chilling

I was biting my nails throughout the movie! There is something very unconventionally supernatural about the movie, which makes it scary.

Atharav Bajaj, businessman

Fun times

THE CROODS: Produced by the DreamWorks Animation, The Croods is an American 3D computer-animated adventure comedy film. Nicolas Cage, Emma Stone, Ryan Reynolds, Catherine Keener, Clark Duke, and Cloris Leachman have given the voice-over.

Interesting & engaging

It was such a cute movie. Besides the extremely engaging storyline, the film had some interesting special effects. I like the beginning of the movie where everybody chases breakfast.

Astha Sharma, student

Cute characters

What I loved the most about the film were the characters and though it reminded me of Ice Age, I think it was a wholesome experience watching it. There was not a dull moment in the film.

Sonal Malik, businesswoman

— As told to Amarjot Kaur

STAR TRACK
Round of applause

Kylie Minogue Cancer survivor Kylie Minogue is to be honoured for helping others battling the disease. The Australian pop star, who has fought breast cancer in the past, will be presented with the 2013 Courage Award from the Entertainment Industry Foundation's (Eif) Women's Cancer Research Fund, reported a website. Minogue will be handed over the honour at a glitzy ceremony in Beverly Hills, California next month, in recognition of her "fight against breast cancer and dedication to raising awareness for the disease." While, fashion designer Carolina Herrera will take home the Nat King Cole Award in honour of her philanthropy. The gala, titled An Unforgettable Evening, will be hosted by funny woman Chelsea Handler at the Beverly-Wilshire Hotel on May 2 and will feature a performance from singer Bruno Mars. — PTI





Merit basis:
Kylie Minogue

Grace marks

U.S. actresses Julianne Moore(L) and Chloe Grace Moretz pose for photos as they promote their upcoming film Carrie at the Summer of Sony 5 Edition photo call in Cancun, Mexico. — PTI

The new entry

Wax statues of One Direction stars were unveiled at a new exhibition in Madame Tussauds museum.

Two days before the new exhibition opened to public, band members Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Louis Tomlinson, Liam Payne and Niall Horan got to a chance to see their life-size wax statues at a secret meeting in Nottingham, reported a publication.

After meeting with their wax counterparts, Payne said he felt "privileged" to be immortalised by the wax museum, while Styles said it felt like "such an honour." Fans were seen swarming the new attraction at the museum. Young girls were spotted kissing and caressing the cheeks of the statues. The One Direction wax figures will stay at the London Madame Tussauds for twelve weeks before being displayed in New York and Sydney museums. — PTI

Adele offers flats to cousins!

Oscar-winning singer Adele reportedly wanted to buy seven flats for her cousins, but they turned down the offer. The 24-year-old, Skyfall star, recently topped the richAdele list of young stars with a fortune of 30 million pounds, reported a publication. "Adele wanted to spread her happiness and success through the family, but they politely declined the extremely generous offer," a source said. Adele's mother has two sisters, who have three and four children each, all of whom spent every day of their childhood with the singing sensation. "We all lead our own lives, we're self-sufficient and don't need her to help out. We all still live within spitting distance of each other and phone each other most days," said Anita Atkins, Adele's aunt. — PTI
Playing Santa: Adele

Why is Ameesha sleepless?

Ameesha Patel has become very busy with her maiden production and also with other offers pouring in. Here is what she has been up to lately. She is busy with Desi Magic and with patchwork for Shortcut Romeo. Then the promotional activities for the film will begin. She will be traveling around the world to promote the movie.

She has been doing live shows all around the country and participating in live events too. She had five consecutive shows and she covered three cities in five days. She hardly gets a couple of hours to sleep.

According to sources, "Ameesha has hardly been getting two hours of sleep.

Ameesha PatelShe has been having too many late nights and she had five back-to-back shows in different cities. She's also been waking up early morning to catch the flights."

After Shortcut Romeo, she will shoot for Desi Magic and Sunny Deol's Bhaiyyaji Superhit. So her schedule is full. She might take a short holiday in between her schedules to unwind and relax.
Worked up: Ameesha Patel

No method actor this Ranveer Singh

Ranveer Singh had a scene in Lootera, in which he had to portray being in pain. So he took a safety pin and kept piercing himself to feel the real pain. He felt that enhanced his performance. The unit members were against this but he went ahead and gave a great shot.

Performance oriented: Ranveer Singh

To and fro Kareena Kapoor Khan

Kareena Kapoor Khan is tired of shuttling between Delhi, which is her in-laws' place, and Bhopal, where she is shooting for Satyagraha. She enjoys both visits but she is tired. Lately, she's only been getting to meet her hubby Saif at airport lounges because he is shooting in Lucknow.

Shuttle service: Kareena Kapoor Khan

Watching out Ram Charan

Ram Charan, who will make his debut in Zanjeer, has a fetish for watches. He has over 30 expensive pieces. He takes them out from time to time and polishes them and keeps them back and always has one piece on his wrist.

time machine: Ram Charan

Back to school
Black Eyed Peas star Will.i.am is going back to school this year to study computer science

The Scream & Shout singer is fascinated by quantum physics and has decided to resume his education, reported a website. "I'm fascinated with quantum physics. That's the reason why I'm going back to school this September to learn computer science," he said.

The rapper is known for his love of technology and has urged disadvantaged young people to develop an interest in new sciences in order to change lives.

"If you live in a ghetto and really want not just to change your life and your family's life but change your ghetto's life, make your ghetto a good neighbourhood, learn science, try to be like Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates and Steve Jobs. "You'll change not just your family and your neighbourhood, you'll change your whole city. Music is great, athletics is great, but the guys in Silicon Valley and the dudes that make Twitter and Facebook, they're changing the world," he added. — PTISonam Kapoor

Sonam goes commercial

Sonam Kapoor is all set to feature in a new commercial, in which she will reveal her beauty secrets. She is being paid big bucks for this endorsement and commercial. Lucky girl!

Eye candy: Sonam Kapoor

Starring, Vidya Balan Roy Kapur! Vidya Balan

Vidya Balan is a big name now. She is going to make it even bigger. She plans to go by the name of Vidya Balan Roy Kapur now! She hardly took a break after her marriage. She is currently shooting Shaadi Ke Side Effects with Farhan Akhtar and will get busy promoting Ghanchakkar soon.

Busy bee: Vidya Balan

Bipasha Basu Best friends forever

Bipasha Basu was recently in London with her sister Vijeta and then she flew to the States. There she met her childhood friend Suzie after four years. Bipasha stayed in Philadelphia and New York and went to Los Angeles before returning to India.

Tripping around: Bipasha Basu

Pooja Gupta Butterflies in stomach

Newcomer Pooja Gupta who was a part of FALTU was nervous about shooting with Saif Ali Khan in Goa Goa Gone. However, the easy-going actor guided her through the scenes and made her comfortable. She finds him very sweet and thinks he is a complete gentleman. So Saif has another fan now!
Fan following: Pooja Gupta

chatter box
Fans meet their heroes

Die hard fans of Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah from Rajkot, who have actually formed a fan club dedicated to the show, got a chance to meet their heroes on the set of the show recently. Thirty five members of the club arrived from Rajkot by bus, and brought gifts along with them for each and every member of the cast, including the director and producer.

The team of Taarak Mehta… were overwhelmed by the love showered on them. Not only did they welcome their admirers with open arms, but also went to the extent of conducting an Aarti for their special guests, and played Garba with them too. 

Asit Modi, producer of the popular comedy show, expressed gratitude towards the fans, who had come to the city all the way from another state. “We are feeling so blessed. In so much of heat, all these people have come all the way from Rajkot, with families, kids and senior citizens. As a token of love, they had brought specially designed plates with our pictures on it. Kitni saari mehnat lagti hain ye sab karne ko. Nowadays, who cares? It’s so touching.”

Cast and crew of Taarak Mehta Ka Oolta Chashma

Overwhelming experience: Cast and crew of Taarak Mehta Ka Oolta Chashma

Crime and conspiracy

Zee Café brings a fascinating new thriller your way as it shows just how far a woman can go to protect her family. Red Widow a super hit series in America and it has never been telecast on Indian television before.

The brand new show that is all set to premiere on April 13, comes from the writer of the ‘Twilight’ saga and revolves around Marta Walraven (played by Radha Mitchell) a suburban housewife living in Northern California.

Marta has a loving husband, a beautiful home overlooking Sausalito, and three amazing kids. But behind this perfect facade is a family of organised criminals.A still from the Red Widow Marta's father, her brother, and husband Franklin all make their living through illegal means, and up until now, she has turned a blind eye to this fact.

But when Franklin is murdered, Marta uncovers a tenacity she never knew she had. She will do whatever it takes to avenge his death and keep her family alive, even if it means filling her husband's shoes and joining the family business. Tune in as Marta digs into this exciting and dark underworld, as she tests her own strength, relying on her resourcefulness, determination and family ties like never before.

Watch the episodes of the all new series– twice in the same day! The show will air on weekends at 2 pm and10 pm exclusively on Zee Café.
Seeking revenge: A still from the Red Widow

Mandira Bedi Double joy for Bedi

The day Sony Entertainment Television’s announced their new reality show Indian Idol Junior, it was host of the show, Mandira Bedi’s birthday. As the judges’, music composer duo Vishal- Shekhar and versatile singer, Shreya Ghoshal came to interact with the media, the makers also decided to celebrate Bedi’s birthday with a bang.

Birthday bash: Mandira Bedi

Dancing star

Actress Akanksha Singh, who is currently seen in Na Bole Tum... Na Maine Kuch Kaha, has carved a niche for herself in the industry. She talks about her character, dancing skills and more… 

You dance pretty well. Since when have you been dancing? 

I never learnt dancing, I picked it up while watching my mother dance because she is an expert dancer. I pick up dance steps quickly.

If you got to meet Megha in real life, what advice would you give her? 

I believe that Megha doesn’t need my counselingbecause both, Mohan and Megha made mistakes.

You cry a lot on the show. Do you cry on your own or use glycerin? 

Most of the time I cry on my own, but sometimes, I have to use glycerin.

Are you continuing with your studies in physiotherapy? 

Yes, and I am in the fourth year of my course now.

What is the best feedback that you have received till date? 

A fan told me that I am at par with the actresses of the yesteryears. I am indeed much humbled by the compliment.

Real friendsChandni Bhagwanani

The two actors who play the on screen couple on the television show Amita Ka Amit, Chandni Bhagwanani and Nishad Vaidya in reality are good friends. Both newcomers have now taken their friendship off-screen too. As they have to travel to the same spot everyday for their shoot, they now share an autorickshaw as well.
Chandni Bhagwanani

Eijaz on stage

Eijaz Khan who has been looking for substantial work post his last flop show on TV Shubh Vivaah has now taken up theatre. Having done films and television, the actor decided he wanted to try out another medium. He has signed on a play called The Seduction where he plays the role of a playboy.Drasthi Dhami

Let’s dance

While speculations are rife on who will be a part of Colors upcoming dance reality show Jhalak Dikkhlaa Jaa, news is that Drasthi Dhami of Madhubala fame and Siddharth Shukla of Balika Vadhu fame have been confirmed.

Happy feet:
Drasthi Dhami

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Take proper care of your diet. Financial matters will come under strains. There is an extremely positive potential for future growth. Singles will be on the lookout for a partner, love life will be exciting. Tarot message: Do what is right and watch your best interests. Lucky color: Yellow. Magic number: 56

TAURUS: Personal relations will be neglected. Recognition and rewards are on the cards. Cine artists or players will be in the lime light. Be patient till things start moving in desired direction. Tarot message: Delays are the only obstacle in your way to success. Lucky color: Black. Magic number: 38

GEMINI: The card “six of wands” will give you extra rewards. Try to keep a flexible schedule rather than letting yourself get pinned down in one spot. A female coworker will be jealous of your achievements. Tarot message: Do not rely on empty promises. Lucky color: Red Magic number: 40

CANCER: Your card the “judgement” gives you strength and a strong vision. Work on hobbies will be successful. Be cautious while dealing with money. Postpone work that requires concentration and physical efforts. Tarot message: Stay focused. Lucky color: Crimson. Magic number: 33

LEO: Today, you will have difficulty in getting along with associates. Fraud and trickery could be the order of the day. Work and professional responsibilities will be demanding. Tarot message: Handling the property matters carefully. Lucky color: Orange. Magic number: 44

VIRGO: Health needs some attention. Do not be in a hurry to get financial plans underway. You will be able to do accomplish certain tasks with the help of influential people. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid the in-build delays that comes your way. Lucky color: Beige. Magic number: 59

LIBRA: You are likely going to spend money on astrology or philosophical books. Agreement made today will be very valuable to you. Personal and business partnerships are blessed today. Tarot message: You find within yourself a fountainhead of a will-power. Lucky color: Green. Magic number: 63

SCORPIO: The day starts with a happy mood. Business affairs are under control. A romantic overture to your working day will give you plenty to think about. Do not hold on to the old ideas. Tarot message: Take responsibility for your own action. Lucky color: Blue. Magic number: 26

SAGITTARIUS: Meeting new people will bring delightful opportunity for romance. Get out and about early today. The energy of the day is suited to creative pursuits and having fun with your loved ones. Tarot message: You shall prevent a lot of trouble by taking timely action. Lucky color: Violet. Magic number: 54

CAPRICORN: Avoid speculating today. Enjoy a pleasantly romantic phase at home. Take proper care of your health. Social life, political activity will bring recognition. Put off any dicey deals. Tarot message: Don’t reveal your plans to your competitors. Lucky color: Rust. Magic number: 40

AQUARIUS: Don’t make any hasty decisions regarding your family matters. Younger member in the family will offer you a valuable advice. Your romantic endeavors will be interrupted. Tarot message: Don’t try to end the entire deadlock at one go. Lucky color: Grey. Magic number: 33

PISCES: Dispute over small issue is possible at your working place. Beware of delays and postponement. Mixed trends will prevail through out the day. Take care of your health. Tarot message: You gain by being practical. Lucky color: Green. Magic number: 48





HOME PAGE | Punjab | Haryana | Jammu & Kashmir | Himachal Pradesh | Regional Briefs | Nation | Opinions |
| Business | Sports | World | Letters | Chandigarh | Ludhiana | Delhi |
| Calendar | Weather | Archive | Subscribe | E-mail |