Water is the way
The heat is offering no respite. The only way to chill out seems to be the cool company of water. Check out these places…
Mona

Summer is at its peak and temperatures are soaring ; a splash in cool water is the best bet to beat the heat! We bring you a quick view of where you can prance, frolic or enjoy the cool showers around the Tricity or just sit by serene water to sooth the frayed nerves.

Fun unlimited

This wet park some 45 minutes from Chandigarh offers six landing pools, one activity pool, one wave pool and 17 water slides of different sizes and shapes, including a few small ones for children. Pretty popular at Surya Funcity is the dance floor, if you want to go dancing in the rain. This park has activities for kids and adults alike. If children can enjoy kiddy fish slides, adults can have fun with daring water rides, including exceptionally tall slides and raft rides. Soon to be there is Crusader, another high tech ride, believed to be the first in India.

Open: 10:30 am - 7:30 pm

Price meter: Water Park: Rs 580

Amusement park: Rs 210

Amusement Park+Water park = Rs 600

Literal thunder

At Thunder Zone on Mohali-Sirhind Road, not only can you enjoy in water but also get a chance to win prizes, including cars and bikes, through a draw of lots. Wave Pool here is a hit as are the two dance floors where DJs play live. Two kiddie pools and two wave pools, you can soak yourself day-long here!

Open: 9:30 am to 8 pm

Price Meter: Water park: Rs 350

Amusement park: Rs 280

Combo: Rs 410

Cool heritage

You can enjoy the cold showers of water from fountains that dot the Yadavindra Gardens in Pinjore. An excellent picnic spot, you can enjoy the ambience (late evenings please) or walk amongst the mango-laden trees. Right after the entrance, bats hanging on the trees offer a sight that's sure to startle you. Food Court here can take care of your gastronomic delights and there are other activities for kids as well.

Open: 7am to 10pm

Price Meter: There is a nominal entry ticket; snacks, food available on payment

Tikkar Tal

If you are ready to drive for some 45 kilometers through the winding, hilly roads, Tikkar Tal offers an excellent getaway from the heat and the city. On way to Morni, two lakes here offer more than just a view.

Go boating if you like; you can spend the night at one of the cottages managed by Haryana Tourism or the private players in the region. The restaurant also serves meals. Enjoy the sunrise or the sunset overlooking the serene waters. As the area is rather hilly and lonely, choose to travel before it gets dark!

So what are you waiting for? Get, set… go!

mona@tribunemail.com

An art of craft
Phulkari has and will always stand out as the true epitome of Punjab’s cultural heritage. It has moved ahead with time and been innovated to perfection...
Amarjot Kaur
Pavit Sidhu Puri
Pavit Sidhu Puri

Punjabis have a boisterous lifestyle and it is best reflected in their folk tradition. Believed to be a dying art till some time ago, Phulkari fascination was brought to the ramps in Manish Malhotra's collection, where actors Jacqueline Fernandez, Sidharth Malhotra and Esha Gupta walked as the showstoppers donning phulkari-embroidered saris, floor-length Anarkalis and angarakhas. Although the exact origin of Phulkari remains ambiguous, the earliest mention was made in the famous love story of Heer-Ranjha, which was written by Waris Shah. Traditionally gifted to the girl on her wedding, Phulkari has come a long way.

Accessorise it

"I have always been fascinated by Phulkari because this is not just an art, it's the embroidery that preserves the heritage of Punjab. This, probably, gives me all the more reason to experiment with it," says Pavit Sidhu Puri, who is presently based in Delhi and has exhibited her works in Chandigarh many times. "We have come up with a creative concept of introducing Phulkari in articles that are of daily use, for instance i-Pad covers, Blackberry covers, wine bottle covers (Rs 600), clutches (Rs 3000 to 4000) and shoulder bags (Rs 1,850)," she shares while adding, "We also have a lot of dupattas and kurtis." Pavit gets her Phulkari material from the Malwa belt in Punjab, especially Nabha. The products are available on a number of e-commerce sites and she brands her products on the name — Desi Fusion. "I use khaddar and cotton as a base for Phulkari. We also have a Facebook page, desifusionindia, where you can place an order for the products that you like," says Pavit.

Designer touch

Phulkari work by Manila Jain

Manila Jain, 28, Amritsar-based designer, refurbishes the traditional Phulkari. "I see that Punjab is suffering from the Western hangover that has in many ways acted as a deterrent for the traditional embroidery. I wanted to give Phulkari a very global appeal that the Punjabi masses could relate to. So the suits, dupattas and saris that I do have a very international designer appeal to them," she says. Manila uses handloom fabric as the base for her Phulkari because she does not want to tamper with the 'traditional' value attached to this heritage art. "I use a lot of handloom fabric, including Chanderi, silk and malmal as a base for the Phulkari. While the dupattas are available within the range of Rs 2,000 to Rs 3000, the saris are priced from Rs 4,000 to Rs 9,000. Also, the salwars are priced at Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,500," says Manila while adding, "I have a page on Facebook by the mane of Piro'ee and those who like the designs can place the orders there."

Fashion call

So now if you are wondering how to get your Phulkari right, here are some fashion tips that will add grace to your style. "I think achkans, waist-coats and jackets with Phulkari work are an instant hit as far as the fashion mantra is concerned. You can team up an urban rustic look with a Phulkari unisex salwar," says Sahiba J. Singh, a city-based fashion designer. "Also, you can buy the products from Sahiba J. Singh, booth no. 1, Sector 7-C, Inner Market, Chandigarh," she adds.

Just in case you like experimenting, Rohit Verma, a Mumbai-based designer says, "I think that the best way to team up a Phulkari is to keep everything else subtle and let the Phulkari item stand out. For instance, you can wear a black t-shirt with black denims to highlight the Phulkari item that you are wearing. This can be a perfect evening casual look and if you want to make it formal, you can wear an achkan or a formal jacket."

Check out

  • In Chandigarh, you can get some very fancy Phulkari products from Phulkari Punjab Govt Emporio, 1469, Ghulati Bansal Plaza, Fancy Duppata Centre, Khadi, CTC Plaza, Kohinoor Plaza, Phulkari and Phulkari Studio, all in Sector 17.
  • Jindal Saree Centre in Sector 22
  • Panipattian Di Hatti in Sector 45-A
  • Amar Fabrics, Sector 19-D
  • Vedaa Sarees, Sector 8-B

amarjot@tribunemail.com

A champion storyteller

Kamal Kumar Barjatya's daughter, Kavita Barjatya, knows about the feelings of viewers because she belongs to a family that is respected in television and films. The humble, polite and grounded Kavita only believes in hardwork. She debuted as a producer with Woh Rehne Wali Mehlon Ki, which was on air for six years. Her next show Yahan Mein Ghar Ghar Kheli was also a hit. Now, she is in the news with her family show, Jhilmil Sitaron Ka Angan Hoga. This show has a new storyline with the entry of Aamir Ali and Aleeza Khan in the lead roles.

What is the show all about?

The show throws a light on the family values. It is one of the best shows of my career. The evergreen Aamir Ali and beautiful actor, Aleeza Khan, are playing the lead roles. The viewers will fall in love with its well-etched characters.

Why did you again cast Aamir Ali in the male lead?

Aamir Ali was also in my first show Woh Rehne Wali Mehlon Ki. He is a big name in the television industry. He looked perfect for the role of Soumya and that is the reason why he is in this show.

What is Kavita Barjatya's specialty?

I have always believed in story-telling. My show has a good storyline with sentiments.

Do you find it easier to work with Sooraj Barjatya?

I like his energy as a storyteller with so many qualities. The concept and story is written by him and I execute it with great punch. So, it is always easy to work with him.

What kind of chemistry do you share with the lead stars of Jhilmil Sitaron Ka Angan Hoga?

I share a good relationship with my lead stars Aamir Ali and Aleeza Khan. In this show, I have given a chance to Aleeza Khan, who is a talented actor. Aamir is working hard for this show.

What is the feedback that you have been getting for this family show?

The feedback has been quite good. The viewers have liked this show, so I feel proud about it.

What are your upcoming projects?

We are just concentrating on Jhilmil Sitaron Ka Angan Hoga. The other channels have approached us for new shows, but nothing has been finalised.

Dharam Pal

Par Excellence
Get ready to swing
Jesse Grewal

To be physically ready to swing well one needs to do some stretch exercises well before the round.

 

Younger golfers tend to ignore this aspect as they are relatively more flexible. The older one gets the more one needs to do a good warm up as the chance of injury increases. The last article dealt with a dynamic warm up to be done just before teeing off. This one deals with stretch exercise to be done well before the round. The arms are a speed producer during the swing while the body is the power producer. Distance in golf comes from a combination of power and speed. To improve the power component which is the work of the body one could do the following exercises –

Open the book

Lie in one side with the knees at 90 degrees to the spine (picture 1) and both arms outstretched. With the upper arm and shoulder turn to touch the ground behind you (picture 2). Repeat this 10 times and then repeat again on the opposite side. This would open up the thoracic spine and improve the shoulder turn.

Hip drops

Lie on your back with the knees folded upwards (picture 3). Keep the knees a little apart. Move one knee outwards and with the other knee drop the leg down towards the other leg (picture 4). Repeat the same on the opposite side. This improves the flexibility of the hips.

Dynamic hamstring stretch

Lie on your back and fold your legs upwards. Now raise your hips off the ground so that the back, hips and thighs form a straight line (picture 5). Lift one leg parallel to the other thigh and then kick upwards while keeping your leg straight at the knee (picture 6). This releases the hamstrings which if tight inhibit the ability of the hips to turn.

Scorpions

Lie face down and then lift one leg and try and touch the ground on the opposite side (picture 7). Repeat this with the other leg. This also improves the flexibility of the hips and the lower body.

(Grewal has coached several national champions and professionals apart from being coach of the Indian golf team for the Eisenhower Cup (World Cup) in 2008. He is currently the Director of National Golf Academy of India and CGA Hero Honda Golf Academy. If you have any queries get in touch with him at parexcellence@tribunemail.com)

Mobile magic
Customised caravans are the latest rage with Ludhianvis…
Gurvinder Singh

Turn the recliner up at the press of a button, switch on the home theatre, enjoy a chilled drink from the refrigerator as you look out of the window and admire the landscape.

Plush interiors, all the ‘luxuries’ you seek give you a homely feel on your mobile caravans that are quickly becoming much sought after. Babbaraju Mobile (BRM) and its sister-concern in Punjab Blissfull Rhythmms have launched ‘luxury on wheels’ mobile caravans in Ludhiana.

Beautiful interiors, recliners, televisions, home theatre system, refrigerator, bar, microwave, shower, chemical toilet, multi-utility tables, reading lights, water tank, geyser and even generator sets are available onboard! “The caravans can be customised to the requirements of clients. Beds, kitchenette, chairs can be installed according to need,” says Isha Sudan from the firm. “A canopy opens up on the side and can be used if you are camping outside,” an official from the firm added. Wireless intercom facility allows communication with the driver.

The electricity points allow the running of the home theatre system, air-conditioner and other electronic items. “The material we use is fire-resistant and interiors have the look of an aircraft,” says Ashwini Sharma from the firm. “The interiors can be completely customised. We also make suites that can be used for conferences at remote site offices. And we are currently designing a vehicle with body-massagers onboard,” he adds.

“There are as many as 1,400 such caravans made by us and we have delivered 50 such vehicles in Punjab, including Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Chandigarh and other areas,” says Raju

Babbar, who started the firm, adds, “I was into car accessories’ business earlier. It was my passion to innovate and provide luxury on the move, so we started rolling out customised vehicles in 1998. I am personally involved in designing of the vehicles.

“It is like your living room or even your bedroom on wheels,” says Abhishek, a Ludhiana resident, at the launch event. “I have a modified Tata Winger with a couple of recliners, television, chilling-box etc onboard and it is very comfortable. Travel becomes very relaxing and comfortable” says Agya Paul Singh, a Ludhiana-based businessman.

gurvinder@tribunemail.com

HEART talk
Figure it out
Parvesh Rana

I am a 28-year-old working woman. Of late a colleague of mine has started bothering me a lot. He talks behind my back and is spreading rumours against me. How should I deal with him? Nisha, Chandigarh

Keep your cool. Talk to this colleague and try to figure out the problem. You should first talk to him, before you discuss to anyone else. If the problem still persists, talk to your immediate senior about it.

I am a 32-year-old married man. Recently my wife’s friend came over to stay with us for a few days. The problem is that she wants everything to be done her way. My wife doesn’t say anything but this irritates me. Alok, Chandigarh

This happens normally when mothers-in- law come over for a short visit. Don’t think too much about it. Some people have their unexplained whims and fancies. Regard her as a temporary member and move on with your life.

(Rana is a Bollywood actor and television anchor)

Big target
Mona
Sunita Dhir, Gavie Chahal & Misha Chaudhary. Photo: S Chandan
(L-R) Sunita Dhir, Gavie Chahal & Misha Chaudhary. Photo: S Chandan

After the boom in Punjabi film industry, now is the turn for reality shows. To bring out different colours of Punjab, some old, some new on the screen is what the newest show Big Fame Star promises.

Confident strides

In Chandigarh, on Monday, Gavie Chahal and Sunita Dhir, who have been part of the auditions, share their take on the process that has taken them to five cities across Punjab.

A reality show winner (Fear Factor), with a few Punjabi and Hindi films and numerous videos to his credit, Gavie has been looking for 'confidence' in contestants first and foremost.

Confidence is one thing this mechanical engineer has in abundance and this is what made him choose acting for career. And, he is here to stay. With three Punjabi projects, Saada Jawai NRI, Mr Hot Mr Cool and another untitled project, two Hindi, Sher Khan and Black Currency, Gavie is neck deep in work and enjoying it.

"Films are my best bet, though I am open to any creative projects offered," says Gavie. Happy working in both areas, he wishes that Punjabi cinema too explores the issues that matter. "Milkha Singh is ours, and there is this big budget, full fledged Hindi film on him," he says.

Ask him how the two industries are different, he says, "An actor puts in the same dedication everywhere, but budget makes a huge difference. Ek Tha Tiger was shot across seven countries, sometimes Punjabi films get shot entirely in one village. Now, see what a huge difference that brings to the whole canvas." Gavie believes in learning on the go and is happy as long as he gets appreciation for his work.

Meaningful dialogue

Sunita Dhir, an actor and theatre person, is impressed by the raw talent small places in Punjab have to offer. "There were lots to see, there were men dressed as women acting just like the old tradition and also those who learnt everything from TV."

On the personal front, Sunita is busy doing theatre as well as one or two odd films that come her way. "There is not much a character actor gets to do. Now that Punjabi cinema has got an audience, it's time we bring in parallel cinema too. There is a rich folk tradition that we have that we should give a try rather than focussing on just mindless comedies."

Chandigarh auditions are on Tuesday, June 11 at Punjab Kala Bhawan-16 starting from 10 am. The show goes on air on Spark Punjabi.

mona@tribunemail.com

Punjabi Tadka
Born to sing
Jasmine Singh

Navjeet Kahlon had never thought of anything else but music. All he ever wanted to do was sing, which is what he is precisely doing today. He entertains the audience with his soulful voice. His second album Born To Rise has received an award for the best sound recording. We catch the singer for a candid chat.

Second innings

This is why I was born, to sing and rise so the title of album captures the essence of me (he laughs). We have recorded five videos for the album shot extensively in Australia by Bollywood video directors. This is my second album after Rut Mastani, which was released in 2006.

Visual appeal

A video is very important for an album and equally important for the singer. Even though it is the audio that appeals first, but a singer can’t do without a music video. It gives a form and face to the singers work.

Team up

I am all for collaborations with the right kind of people who believe in the magic of music. I have collaborated with Dr Zeus on a single track which will be releasing soon worldwide.

My kind of style

Folk is my style with a touch of western music. In Born To Rise we have used live instruments. I am all for music that every Punjabi and even non-Punjabi can relate to.

Words wise

I am surprised on the kind of songs that are being written these days. Either, it is on gypsy or goli or danga. Punjabi music is much more than this. I want to sing songs, which reflect our culture and our reach. I want to do work, which is at par with Bollywood music.

Source of inspiration

I keep myself as my own model. I challenge myself to do better with every song. I have grown up listening to Master Saleem and late Dilshad Akhtar. Punjab has no dearth of good singers who can be an inspiration for any singer.

Live show

Again, this is something important to every singer. The frequency of melas has lessened but the same is being compensated with live shows at schools and colleges. I am going on a musical tour to Australia in July. Music festivals are a befitting platform for every singer.

Playback vs albums

At the end of the day, every singer wants to be heard whether it is films or private albums. I am game for both.

B'town welcomes Monsoon in Mumbai
The first monsoon shower hit Mumbai and Bollywood celebrities say the arrival of the monsoon means it is time to relish ginger tea, pakodas and fresh air

The southwest monsoon hit Mumbai on Saturday night, a day before its scheduled arrival, allowing Mumbaikers to heave a sigh of relief. It's raining in the city and celebrities expressed their joy on Twitter:

Madhuri Dixit

Happy Monsoon guys! Finally it's starting to rain in Mumbai!

Pooja Bhatt

A rain-washed Mumbai... trees sing, stray dogs huddle. Traffic snarls, umbrellas and hem-lines flutter. Gentle light, a spent sky, Sunday... Ah!Life!

Divya Dutta

N a very happy baarish wala Sunday! Happy relaxing, adrak chai and pakore! uffo! too much.

Manish Malhotra

Beautiful rains here in Mumbai this morning.

Kunal Kohli

Nothing better than waking up to a rainy Sunday. Garam Chai. Pakoras. Bhutta. Drive to Lonavala.

Ayushmann Khurrana

I somehow prefer sunny Sundays. Rain should be a Monday mandate. As it disrupts work and romanticizes the quintessential working day.

IANS

star track
Karan Johar endorses Ranveer-Sonakshi chemistry
Ranveer Singh and Sonakshi Sinha
Screen presence: Ranveer Singh and Sonakshi Sinha

Even though Bollywood has made hundreds of love stories over the years, the most memorable are the ones in which the star pairs have a never–seen-before seen chemistry. Over the years, this kind of onscreen intensity has been visible in the films starring Rajesh Khanna—Mumtaz, Amitabh Bachchan – Rekha and Shahrukh Khan-Kajol. These star pairs have mesmerised the audiences with their performances especially when they are together in the most intimate scenes.

Lootera promises something similar, if one has to believe Karan Johar, one of the best-known creators of celluloid romance. Johar says, “Every single visual of Lootera has a silent sensuality, which is enhanced because of the chemistry that Ranveer and Sonakshi exude...it’s one of the most exciting lead pairs, as they have completely opposite energies, but put together, they have passion written all over their demeanour. Romantically sexy is what Lootera seems to be....and that is a rare feat to be captured on celluloid.”

Balaji and Phantom, two of Bollywood’s biggest creative powerhouses, have united to create the new-age romantic duo, following in the footsteps of these iconic pairs. The two most promising debutants of 2010, Sonakshi Sinha and Ranveer Singh, have been cast together for the first time.

Lootera has been directed by Vikramaditya Motwane, whose widely acclaimed debut film Udaan was officially selected to compete in Uncertain Regard at the Cannes Film Festival in 2010.

Sonakshi says, “Ranveer and I are opposites. As hyper as he is, I am calm. Even as actors, our styles of working are different. He likes to prepare whereas I don’t switch on until the camera is on. The beauty of Lootera lies in how Vikramaditya Motwane tuned two diametrically opposite actors so well with each other. I saw the rushes of the film and it’s pure magic. I’m sure that the audience will love to see our fresh pairing.”

Motwane says, “The most important thing in a love story for me is the intensity and passion that my lead actors bring into playing their characters. Both Ranveer and Sonakshi have portrayed their love to perfection like seasoned actors even though Lootera is their first film together.” — HRM

I trust SRK personally & professionally: Deepika
Deepika Padukone
Deepika Padukone

Actress Deepika Padukone, who has teamed up with superstar Shah Rukh Khan yet again after a gap of six years for action-comedy Chennai Express, says she trusts him very much personally as well as professionally.

The model-turned-actress made her debut opposite Khan in Om Shanti Om in 2007 and was directed by Farah Khan. The film saw her in a double role.

"It is great to be working with him again. He has become my very good friend today. He is someone I trust personally and professionally. I am sure he will always be there for me whenever I need him," Deepika said.

Chennai Express directed by Rohit Shetty and produced by Gauri Khan under her production banner Red Chillies Entertainment will release on August 8.

"It was lot of fun working on the film. It was a great experience. Rohit is known for making comedy films and this film as well has turned out to be very entertaining. It is very different from what he has done. I am quite excited about its release," Deepika said.

The film is the story about a man's journey from Mumbai to Rameswaram and what happens during the journey.

The 27-year-old would be seen next in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's much talked about film Ram Leela, which is said to be an adaptation of Shakespeare's epic love story Romeo and Juliet, set in violent times.

"Every director is a hard task master as they all churn out the best from us. They want to make a good film," Deepika said on Bhansali's hard ways on the film sets.

Deepika has been paired opposite Ranveer Singh for the first time in this film and gossip mills are already abuzz with their close equation. About his co-star Ranveer, she said, "He is a fabulous actor, he is very talented. It was a great experience working with him. He is a great co-star, a great person and nothing else.

"People create hype when the film is about to release. People should understand it is all about on-screen chemistry. I don't feel the need to go and clarify things to people." — PTI

Not committed yet!

Singer Katy Perry was seen partying with on and off boyfriend John Mayer at the weekend.
Katy Perry
Party girl: Katy Perry

The 28-year-old, who has been spending time with the 35-year-old singer-songwriter again after splitting up for the second time in March, recently joined 15 other friends at the Chateau Marmont, West Hollywood.

A source said that the on and off couple and their entourage were ushered into the far back corner of the hotel's tented patio, where security staff kept a close eye on them. Perry, who wore a short-sleeved white cashmere sweater and fitted metallic skirt, did not sit beside Mayer.

Though the couple were seen spending time together, they have decided that they are not ready to commit to each other.

A source previously said: “They are just hanging out. They are not putting a label on it.” — IANS

More twist to the tale
Jiah Khan
Bitter truth: Jiah Khan

A suicide note that Bollywood actress Jiah Khan left behind before hanging herself has been found and handed over to the police.

"Her (Jiah Khan's) mother has handed over the suicide note to us along with her statement. It will be scrutinised and legal opinion will be obtained," Vishwas Nangre Patil, additional commissioner of police (west) told an agency.

Jiah Khan committed suicide on last Monday. Her body was discovered at her Sagar Sangeet residence in Juhu. She was allegedly in a relationship with actor Aditya's Pancholi's son Suraj and was believed to have been depressed with her career. — IANS

Jolly LLB and Murder 3 go to Shanghai!

In a rare honour for any studio in India, Fox Star Studios’ two Hindi films released in 2013 will be featured at the 16th Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF) in its international panorama section. With celebrated director Subhash Kapoor’s Jolly LLB  and debutant film maker Vishesh Bhatt’s Murder 3  slated to be showcased between June 16 – June 23, 2013’ Fox Star Studios’ presence at SIFF will reflect the sheer versatility of Hindi cinema as it celebrates its 100 years.

Vijay Singh, CEO, Fox Star Studios says, “We are mighty pleased to get an invitation from the Shanghai International Film Festival. Jolly LLB and Murder 3 are films that we are proud of and they are also representative of our commitment towards creating diverse and high content cinema, which while being massy and entertaining also pushes the envelope. For us, it’s an honour that in the 100th year of Indian cinema, we have got a chance to showcase different strands of our cinema at a global platform.”

Priyanka's father passes away

National award-winning actress Priyanka Chopra's father, Dr Ashok Chopra, passed away on Monday at a hospital in suburban Andheri here after a prolonged battle with cancer.

The actress' father died at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani hospital a short while ago, Priyanka's manager said.

Dr Chopra, a physician in the Indian Army, was seriously ill for a longtime. He had accompanied Priyanka to Vancouver for the TOIFA Awards earlier this year.

For over a fortnight, the actress had been by her father's side due his illness. — PTI

chatter box
Jaw-dropping revelation

Amitabh Bachchan's recent announcement about doing a fiction show on television left many shocked. The fiction series will be a finite one and Anurag Kashyap will helm the project as director. Here's what Big-B had to say about the show and more…
Amitabh Bachchan
new innings: Amitabh Bachchan

Why did you choose to do a television show?

For a very long time, I had been wondering if working in a serial would be a good idea. So, without informing too many members of my family, I went for a few meetings, where I met producers Endemol and Anurag. Later, when Sony TV came along, things worked out just fine. We have now committed to making a serial and I am delighted to be part of it. I thought doing a serial would be exciting because television has really evolved as a medium of communication. It is a medium which has immediate connect with fans and post KBC, I thought that this would be one step in the direction towards connecting with my fans.

What is the show all about?

There are many serials running on television rather successfully. We wanted to do something where we could put in a different kind of a story and give production values that it deserves. However, it would be little too early to talk about the genre of the show.

Working on television implies that one has to shoot for at least 14 to 16 hours. Wouldn't that be a little tough for you?

Not at all. In fact, I am ready to work 20 hours.

What shows do you like on television?

I watch television on and off and I like the show, Bade Achche Lagte Hain.

On television, the character is the hero. Whereas in films, the hero has a larger than life image and you are a superstar. How would working on television affect that?

Bahut badi galat fahmi hai aapki. I don't think like that. We are all actors and we play roles to the best of our ability.

On the stage

Rohitash Gaur Talented actor Rohitash Gaur from the show, Lapataganj, will host a theatre festival held in the memory of late actor Balraj Sahani. His father has been organising this festival since 1952 and this year the will also have theatre groups from Jharkhand and Bhilai.

Playing host: Rohitash Gaur

Role call

Dakssh Ajit Singh After essaying the role of a gay in the show, Maryaada, Dakssh Ajit Singh will be seen in Contiloe Telefilm's historical drama series, Dharti Ka Veer Putra... Maharana Pratap. He will play the role of Rana Bahadur Singh, who was a very important man in Maharana Pratap's life.


It's Showtime: Dakssh Ajit Singh

Welcome Ankita

A still from Pavitra RishtaBalaji's hit show Pavitra Rishta completed four years. As Ankita Lokhande returned to the show after a long time, it has given a boost to the show and the unit members. As producer Ekta Kapoor is not in town, the unit will wait for her to return and throw a big party for celebration.

Party time: A still from Pavitra Rishta

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Take care of your diet. Love life will be exciting. A friend of the same sex will be helpful. Financial matters will come under strains. Singles will find a partner today.
Tarot message: Watch your best interests.
Lucky colour: Yellow.
Magic number: 56.

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

GEMINI: The card 'six of wands' will give you extra rewards. Keep your schedule flexible. A female co-worker can be jealous of your achievements.
Tarot message: Empty promises are certain, so try to put your terms and conditions in writing.
Lucky colour: Red.
Magic number: 40

CANCER: Your card 'the judgement' gives you strength and a very strong vision. Communication over legal matters, travel plans and education can be postponed. Be cautious while dealing with money.
Tarot message: Stay positive.
Lucky colour: Crimson.
Magic number: 33

LEO: Today you will have difficulty in getting along with associates. Women: avoid gossiping. Work and professional responsibilities will place demands on your time. Today is a good day for romance.
Tarot message: Be careful while handling property issues.
Lucky colour: Orange.
Magic number: 44

VIRGO: Health needs attention. Do not be in a hurry while dealing with finances. You might be able to do yourself a bit of good with the help of influential people. Romance is on the cards.
Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid delays.
Lucky colour: Beige.
Magic number: 59

LIBRA: Today you are likely going to spend money on astrology or philosophical books. Agreement made today can be very valuable in future.
Tarot message: You discover a fountainhead of a will power within you.
Lucky colour: Teal.
Magic number: 63

SCORPIO: A romantic overture will give you a plenty to think about. It's a good day to release anxiety, so stop holding on to old ideas for the fear of letting go and stay possitive.
Tarot message: Take responsibility for your actions.
Lucky colour: Blue.
Magic number: 26

SAGITTARIUS: Meeting new people will bring delightful opportunity for romance and minor flirtation. Social interaction will be beneficial. The energy of the day is suited to creative pursuits.
Tarot message: It's a good day for romance.
Lucky colour: Violet.
Magic number: 54

CAPRICORN: Avoid speculation today. The married will enjoy a pleasantly romantic phase at home. Take proper care of your health. Social life, political activity will bring recognition.
Tarot message: Don't reveal your plans to your competitors.
Lucky colour: Rust.
Magic number: 40

AQUARIUS: Don't rush to make any hasty decisions regarding your family. Younger member in the family will offer you a valuable advice today. Defer a short journey.
Tarot message: Don't try to end the entire deadlock at one go. Stay possitive.
Lucky colour: Grey.
Magic number: 33

PISCES: Heavy expenses will frustrate you. Beware of delays and postponement. It is probably in your best interest to see a nutritionist for a personal eating plan. Today is a good day for romance.
Tarot message: Don't be emotional.
Lucky colour: Green.
Magic number: 48





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