The perfect act 
Amarjot Kaur

By its sheer virtue to inspire, a struggle story draws excessive interest. For actor Aarti Puri, who was recently seen in Prabhu Deva’s directorial venture Ramiya Vastavaiya, struggle is just another word in the path of success. While her candidness compliments her confidence, the singularity of her expression defines several nuances of her individuality, which have matured with fourteen years of experience in the Indian film industry. A rare mix of frankness and honesty, Aarti talks about her journey in the film industry while recollecting her bond with the Punjabi film industry; her association with the South-Indian film industry as an item girl, television debut, Bollywood and future ventures.

The beginning

Aarti hails from Amritsar and she credits Jaspal Bhatti for her acting career as she recalls, “I was only twelve when I did my first Punjabi film in 1999, Mahaul Theek Hai, and all that was courtesy Jaspal Bhatti’s cousin who saw me acting in a school competition. Later, I proceeded to doing several Punjabi music videos, including Tu Ni Boldi by Bindrakhia and Bhed khul jug a sara by Nachattar Gill.”

When she moved to Mumbai with a bag full of Bollywood dreams though, she was acquainted with some unpleasant realities, “In Mumbai, there are two kinds of film industries-cinema and fake industry-and it took me a couple of years to sift the real from the unreal. Finally, in 2007, I was offered an item song in the film Asthram, which was a remake of the film Sarfarosh and I accepted it promptly. This marked my entry in the South-Indian film industry,” she says.

After doing item songs in as many as thirty-two films, Aarti felt the need to act and she landed a lead role in the South-Indian film Nakshatram with Preeti Jhangiani in 2010. “I was an item girl and the tag never bothered me because in all honesty, I was using that profile to get into something more concrete. When you don’t have a godfather in the industry, you need to struggle your way up and the secret to sanity while doing it lies in one’s ability to look at the positive things in life,” she says. After essaying lead roles in as many as six South-Indian films, Aarti switched to television.

Telly time

“As I had already etched my image as an item girl Down South, I was required to dance in almost every film that I was offered. Unfortunately, while shooting for one of the songs, I injured my knee and my doctor asked me to refrain from dancing. It was then that I was offered the role of Trishna in Madhubala,” she says.

Bollywood calling

“Over four years ago, I had auditioned for a music video project by choreographer Vishnu Deva, which never materialised. One fine day, in a traffic jam I saw him sitting with Prabhu sir and soon after he rang me up to inform that he wanted me to do a cameo in his film. I will soon be seen in Prabhu sir’s upcoming directorial venture starring Ajay Devgan and Sonakshi Sinha.”

Up next

Aarti will be seen essaying the lead role in the film Once upon a time in Bihar, which will be released in October. The film is a directorial venture by Nitin Chandra and has been produced by Neetu Chandra.

amarjot@tribunemail.com

On Punjabi cinema

“It will be foolish to compare Punjabi cinema with South Indian film industry; while the latter is already established and has ample amount of production houses, the former is still struggling to recover from the depression that it witnessed. The reason why most of the producers are not coming up with another film is because although the film becomes a hit, the production houses make very little profit to invest in another film,” says Aarti.

She is also busy making three Punjabi films under her production banner Amritsar Talkies. “I want to act in Punjabi films, but none of the directors have approached me with a role yet,” she says.

Etched in gold
Opulence does not often come packaged with humility. In the case of businessman TS Kalyanaraman, things are different…
Ashima Batish

He’s neither eager nor reluctant to share his credits. You ask him a question and he readily answers. In case you don’t, he seems happy with what the interviewer knows about him. TS Kalyanaraman doesn’t make extra effort to promote himself. That he scored the 52nd rank in India in the Forbes list of billionaires, is chairman of the company that registers a turnover of Rs 10,000 crore and plans to make its presence felt in the sub-continent as well as the Middle East, do not find mention even as he introduces himself. “Success is part of the good work you do and it’s bound to come your way if you are appreciated by your customers,” says Kalyanaraman, in Chandigarh on Wednesday to open a Kalyan Jewellers store. His business expansion plans also include Ludhiana and Amritsar.

Kalyanaraman’s humility doesn’t make him a Spartan though; one can see Armani socks peeping out of his shoes and a Louis Vuitton belt tucked at the waist. “My son takes care of my wardrobe and who minds wearing an Armani suit!” So we get the label of the suit as well, which was complemented by a 2.5 carat diamond ring in his finger! His indulgence in luxury is not defined by a designer wardrobe only; you ask him about his latest extravagance and he stumps you, “We just bought a Bell 429 helicopter. But that is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. We have offices in forty-five Indian cities and a helicopter saves a lot of travelling time.”

And free time indeed is an issue with him. He begins his day at 6 with a session of yoga and morning walk, which is followed by endless meetings in the office. “We have been able to perform better than our competitors because we had the vision to expand. We functioned in the corporate manner rather than like family jewellers, who have a fixed clientele.” He began with a system of rate cards on jewellery. “We never compromised with the quality of gold. In fact, we diversified from the 100-year-old textile business in 1993, after I foresaw the potential of the market where people desperately wanted to buy unadulterated gold.”

Listed with the BSE, the ambassadors of his brand are Amitabh Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. Interestingly, Amitabh Bachchan was the brand ambassador of a rival jewellery brand till a year ago. “We wanted to hire legends rather than popular faces to endorse our brand; somebody who would complement the art pieces we make. Even Down South, we have actors like Nagarjuna, Sivaraj Kumar and Prabhu Deva, who are true-blue celebrities.”

Kalyanaraman doesn’t feel the need to showcase his jewellery at the jewellery fashion shows either. “We have gone beyond that. We have built trust with our clients and that’s the best recommendation for us.” As a man who lives amid luxury, his food is quite a contrast. “It will always be the humble idli sambar,” he says, with the smile intact.

ashima@tribunemail.com

Not a model invasion! 
Fashion choreographer Kaushik Ghosh, who is in Chandigarh to conduct a grooming workshop, feels actors should stay away from the ramp 
Manpriya Singh

There's a reason why cinema and fashion have a distinct area demarcated for them.

With the invasion of one by the other and a change in role play, things are likely to go wrong than right.

"Bollywood is spoiling fashion and you can attribute the statement, in letter and spirit, to me," fashion choreographer Kaushik Ghosh doesn't mince words, rather he elaborates on them. "Leave acting to Kareena Kapoor and walking the ramp to a super model. When an actress walks the ramp nobody notices the clothes. Moreover, in a lot many cases, they are pathetic on the ramp," he shares, during one of his various visits to Chandigarh.

"I've been in and out of the city for shows but I'm conducting a workshop in the city, after eight long years." The week-long workshop focuses on fashion, modelling, image building and grooming. "The workshop begins by the end of August and will be directed towards entertainment industry as a whole."

The grand finale of the workshop acts as the launch of the upcoming Grooming Zone Institute of Performing Arts. He adds, "It's the stage presence that separates a super model from the rest. They have to have their distinct style and develop on it."

Era of supermodels

Mid nineties brought along the likes of Milind Soman, Marc Robinson…Subsequent years brought along a deluge of models but none likely to fit into the super model tag. "That's because now we have more quantity than quality. Everybody wants to be a model these days. In the nineties, there were very few people entering the industry but most of them were super good," he speaks from his two decade long experience in the industry.

Among the many that still resonate in the fashion world, he picks on, "Mehar Jessia is, by far, the best super model India has produced till date. Madhu Sapre was another great model. Among men, I would say Milind Soman." Ask him to dwell on the long list of models that Chandigarh has given to the fashion industry. "Amanpreet Wahi is a diva. You'll see her in most of my shows. She lightens up the stage and doesn't distract from the garments at the same time. Then there's Poonam Dhillon, who's a legend." He's out to search for a few more and add to the growing list of faces from the city.

manpriya@tribunemail.com

On a crispy note

McDonald's customers have yet another reason to rejoice!

Continuing with its promise of spreading happiness, McDonald's India has added a new product in its Happy Price Menu — crispy veggie and chicken pops. The new products are in line with McDonald's commitment to offer its customers 'choices' coupled with 'affordable' pricing.

Crispy veggie and chicken pops are launched with an objective of enhancing the 'value and choice' quotient further. Crispy chicken and crispy veggie pops are available at Rs 30 and Rs 25 for 6 pieces each. — TNS

On a serious note
Comedy is his forte, but Punjabi actor Rana Ranbir has a felicity with verses as well
Gagan K Teja
 

While a mere glance by him is enough to make anyone burst into fits of laughter, famous comedian Rana Ranbir has a lot more to boast of in life. Most people know him as an actor, who has done numerous plays, television shows and movies, but very few know that Rana Ranbir is a prolific writer as well. He has penned down two poetry books, apart from many plays, short stories, songs and dialogues for Punjabi movies. 

Born and brought up in Dhuri, Punjab, Rana Ranbir is a gold medalist from Punjabi University, Patiala. A Masters in theatre and television, Rana wrote his first poetry book Sach Soch Te Supne' while he was in the final year. Although his friends appreciated the book, Rana was not pleased by his effort. He somehow felt that the content was very raw and wanted to put across his emotions in a better manner. Now after almost two decades, he has come out with a poetry book Kin Min Tip Tip that he thinks is really close to his heart. Appreciated by writers and poets, including the famous Punjabi poet Surjit Patar, Kin Min Tip Tip throws light on the inner strength of Rana Ranbir, his beliefs and experiences.

"This book is the result of ten years of hardwork and my firm beliefs. So much has changed in the society during the past few decades. Obscene lyrics have replaced our rich mother tongue, human relations are becoming materialistic and politics has given birth to evils like corruption, but does it really mean that we should stop making an effort to change the society. This book is my bid to awaken people and I am hopeful that change is not far away," says Rana.

get physical
Perk up your life
Besides weight loss, exercise and physical activity help combat depression, anxiety and anger 
Vishal Thukral

The health benefits of regular exercise and physical activity are hard to ignore. Without regular physical activity, the body slowly loses its strength, stamina and ability to function well. Exercise is a great way of managing stress and other negative emotions.

Research demonstrates that exercise is a reliable method of decreasing depression, anxiety and anger. Taking time off from a difficult project or job to go for a run can really provide better managerial skills even at the work place. When you return from jogging or exercise, you may find that a new solution has presented itself or worked itself out in the mind during exercise. These benefits lead to healthy lifelong habits. Exercise can also help one to look great – younger, fitter and thinner. Exercisers reported improvements in all areas of quality of life— agility, energy, overall health, mental health and emotional well-being. But this is one of the proven facts that physical activity improves quality of life in almost all areas.

Controls weight

Exercise can help you prevent excess weight gain or help weight loss. This process works on a simple formula—whenever any physical activity is performed the net result is calorie loss. If unable to do an actual workout, get more active throughout the day in simple ways — walking short distances, by taking the stairs instead of the elevator or revving up household chores.

Better mood

Physical activity stimulates various brain chemicals that leave you feeling happier and more relaxed. It helps to attain better physical appearance, which act as a booster for confidence and improves self-esteem.

Boosts endurance

Regular physical activity can surely improve muscle strength and endurance. Exercise and physical activity deliver oxygen and nutrients to the tissues and helps cardiovascular system to work more efficiently. And when heart and lungs work more efficiently, this process generates more energy to go about the daily chores.

Better sleep

Regular physical activity can help you fall asleep faster and deepen sleep. Just don’t exercise too close to bedtime, or you may be too energised to fall asleep.

Great for sex life

The medical research points towards it, the fitter you are, the better your sex life is. Regular physical activity can leave you feeling energised and looking better, which may have a positive effect on your sex life. But there’s more to it than that. Regular physical activity can lead to enhanced arousal in women. And men who exercise regularly are less likely to have problems with erectile dysfunction than who don’t exercise.

Check list

Exercise and physical activity are a great way to feel better, gain health benefits and have fun. As a general goal, aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day.

If the goal is to lose weight or meet specific fitness goals, one needs to exercise more.

Remember to check with your doctor before starting a new exercise programme, especially if someone is having any health concerns.

Diet tip

Green tea contains antioxidants which fight against free radicals. It helps to fight against aging and promotes longevity. Green tea also helps weight loss as it burns fat and boosts metabolism rate naturally.

(Thukral is an aerobics fitness trainer)

CELEB POINT
Let’s be simple
Divya Dutta

In our lives even simple things are made complicated by our complicated minds. When you look around, you see everyone struggling to find true happiness, true love. Strangely, we are all stuck in a vicious circle—of ambitions, of manipulations, of being selfish because otherwise you’ll be eaten up by the ones bigger than you.

We don’t cherish genuineness anymore. We underrate simplicity. Have you ever noticed that the one who gives you a chase or plays hard to get is the one you seek? On the other hand, someone who comes immediately when you call, who is there silently but surely, I can lay a bet, you take him or her for granted at some level. It could also be that you get comfortable, but are we not complicated? This constant running has become an integral part of us. This constant state of conflict takes the better of us.

Most of our time goes in being who we are not. We know it. I tell you even the world knows it! But we are so conditioned to being politically correct or behaving a certain way that we forget who we are really. How many times would you go up to tell someone what you genuinely feel? Why do we layer everything? Why are we scared of speaking out what is in our heart? Trust me, when you speak it warmly and with love and genuineness, it will reach others. If you are fake, they will be good to you but they will still know.

Why have we complicated our already complicated lives? Just say it the way it is.

With these thoughts I got home, welcomed by my little pet, Sakhi! True, genuine, warm unconditional and expressive, without words! She jumped on me to be patted and then came back with her little ball, clear that she wanted to play. As we played, she came and sat on my lap, a sign of gratitude for giving her company. She saw I wasn’t in the best of mood and she just quietly came and hugged me. Soothing serene simple pure love! Nothing explained, everything understood, no misunderstandings! When she’s so expressive about her affection, it is reciprocated the same way. Why can’t we humans unlearn a bit, unwind a bit, loosen up our defenses and try living the gift of god like a gift, in its pure unadulterated form! No layers, no complications!

I was listening to the bhajan, Humko mann ki shakti dena… reminded me of the innocent school time where everything was so idealistic. Can we use that bhajan in our lives today? Far-fetched but can we try it.

(Dutta is a Bollywood actress)

Star Track
Kangana croons for Krrish 3

Bollywood actress Kangna Ranaut is following in the footsteps of stars like Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, Salman Khan and Juhi Chawla. The curly haired beauty will be seen singing a romantic number in the Rakesh Roshan-directed movie Krrish 3.

Composer Rajesh Roshan is full of praise of Kangna for hitting the right notes in the movie, in which she plays a negative character.

“Kangna is a born artiste. There are praises for her from me. She has sung such a tough song in the film... to sing such a song, a full-fledged romantic song, it is a big thing,” Rajesh said.

Talking about the music of the super-hero film, which stars Hrithik Roshan in the lead role, he said that it was tough as his director-brother Rakesh had set high standards.

“It is an action film, Rakeshji is Roshan blood, if you give him only commercial, he does not take it. He has fixed standards. He make me work till I raise my bar,” he said.

The composer also added that one song took about a month to be made and five to six days to mix.

In addition to the romantic track, one can even groove to an item song, which Rajesh says is sans vulgar lyrics.

“Sameer has written the songs. This is a commercial film and there has to be a balance in the lyrics... There is an item song, but it does not have bad words. Rakesh doesn’t like to put words just so that it works,” he said.

Krrish 3 also stars Priyanka Chopra, Vivek Oberoi. It is scheduled for a November 4 release.

—IANS

Life of Swara

Swara Bhaskar was noticed in Tanu Weds Manu and was also applauded for her work in Raanjhanna. She had a bit role in Aurangzeb too. She talks about her university days, books, crushes and more.

Good ol’ JNU days

JNU has a sprawling campus. My most cherished memories are those long walks in the middle of the night with my friends and talking and debating about everything from politics to movies. We would have chai at Ganga dhaba and crash out at the dawn. We would also collect ‘chanda’ from strangers to put together cultural programmes.

Me the storyteller

I was an extrovert kid, who suffered from verbal diarrhoea. I was confident and would chat up people. Coming home from school, I would tell exaggerated stories to my father, who gave me the idea to write them down. It’s then I developed an interest for writing essays and short stories.

Books I love

The Mill on the Floss by George Eliot has had a tremendous impact on me. I’ve read and re-read it, shedding copious tears. Any given day, I enjoy Mark Twain stories. I’ve also had immense pleasure reading Pakistani author Mohammed Hanif. His The Case of Exploding Mangoes was a profound work. I’m also a great fan of Hindi literature, especially the works of Saadat Hasan Manto.

Dream vacations

Take me to the mountains! I think the Himalayas are the most majestic mountain ranges in the world. I’ve travelled to Turkey as well, which has some sprawling locales. Istanbul is probably the most stunning city in the world. Ideal vacation? It involves lot of friends and family. I can never travel alone.

Crushes & cure

I had my first crush at the age of six! Strangely from that time till I was sixteen, whoever I fell for, never liked me back. After that, things became better and it is wonderful on the love front. As far as heartbreaks are concerned, I eat a lot of instant noodles with dollops of cheese. It is effective in getting over boys.

Alia to romance Varun again

After making an excellent debut with Dharma Productions Student Of The Year, Varun Dhawan and Alia Bhatt have been signed together for another movie.

Again the young couple has been signed by Karan Johar for a flick, titled Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania. The film will be produced by Dharma Productions and will be directed by debutant Shashank Khaitan.

A source close to the production house reveals, “Though they have been seen together in a film before, their pairing is still fresh and young. Since Varun is currently busy shooting for (father) David Dhawan’s directorial (Main Tera Hero), and Alia has some work she needs to finish on 2 States, they will start shooting for this film by October this year.”

Confirming the news, Karan said, “We are starting a film with Varun and Alia, which is being directed by Shashank. This is his debut film; he has also written it. It’s a fun, warm and crazy love story and will be shot extensively in Punjab.” Commenting on the star cast, he added, “They (Varun and Alia) had an unrequited romance in SOTY, so this is technically their first on-screen love story.”

This is Alia Bhatt’s third movie with KJo and Varun Dhawan’s second. Alia is shooting for Karan Johar’s 2 States. The film is based on Chetan Bhagat’s novel with the same title. Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania is expected to release on June 27.

A heady tribute to Akshay!

We’ve heard of stars having fragrances and clothing lines in their name, but cocktails?

The plush Shangri-La Bar Al Jissah property in Oman, where a part of the forthcoming Once Upon A Time In Mumbai Dobaara was shot, has decided to pay a tribute (of sorts) to Akshay Kumar.

Kumar’s character in the film, Shoaib, is introduced in the film in Muscat. To celebrate the film’s release, the hotel has concocted a special cocktail called ‘Shoaibtini’- mixed with Tia Maria, Crème de Cacao and Vodka Absolut Vanilla. A strong short drink, it will be served in a cocktail glass with brown sugar on the rim.

Nicolas Chammaa, the hotel’s resident manager, confirmed the news. “We have been privileged to have Kumar enact a scene in the film in The Long Bar. This drink that has been created by our beverages manager is dedicated to him and the entire Balaji team. The rich, robust and complex taste of the main ingredient Vodka Absolut Vanilla personifies the strong and rugged Shoaib while the sweet taste of Crème de Cacao touches on his soft, romantic side. Tia Maria adds to the rich flavour of this special drink.”

No pun intended

Deepika Padukone’s Tamil-tinted Hindi dialogues in Chennai Express may not have gone down well with some critics but the actress denies that the film caricatures South India in any way. Deepika says she is a South Indian herself and would never spoof her own culture. In fact, it took her a while to master the Tamil-Hindi tone in the Shah Rukh Khan starrer movie.

Deepika plays a Tamil girl who falls in love with a North Indian despite the language barrier. The 27-year-old star said she could identify with her character of a headstrong but traditional girl.

Southern feel

I don’t understand why people are jumping to conclusion without even seeing the film. We all are South Indians, Rohit is a South Indian and I think except for SRK most of the crew was from South.

No Spoof

Why would we spoof our own culture? For years, our films have been based in Punjab but now few films have started setting their stories in South India. I think people are not yet used to it.

Character call

I could identify with my character. I think Indian girls are like that. They have a mind of their own but are close to their families. Even when we are travelling outside, we don’t lose that quality and stand out in the crowd. We have a way of carrying ourselves with lot of dignity and respect.

Pledge of a couple

Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao have pledged to donate their organs after being inspired by Ship of Theseus. They are taking the matter seriously and want to encourage other people to do the same.

Bhatt vs T-series

The Bhatts and T-Series want to remake Dil Hai Ki Maanta Nahin but the project is in a limbo because the Bhatts want Alia Bhatt to star as the leading lady while T-Series wants Shraddha Kapoor to star in it. So, they are at loggerheads and the film is stuck. Emraan Hashmi is the leading man.

Kat goes to Poland

After holidaying in Sri Lanka with her alleged beau Ranbir Kapoor, Katrina Kaif is off to the exotic locale of Poland to shoot for a commercial. How lucky! Maybe she could also visit her family in London on her way back.

 

Pricey deal

Arjun Rampal has been approached to endorse a condom brand. He is interested in the offer but he has asked for Rs 6 crore to do the same. He was chosen because of his personality and now the brand is mulling over the matter. Arjun got tremendous acclaim for his work in D-Day so he has hiked his fee.

No hole in his spirit

Hrithik Roshan says that his spirit is intact after his brain surgery and he has bounced back with the trailer and promotions for Krrish 3. His family and fans have been a huge support and his father has been his hero all along. Even with a hole in his head, he feels stronger than ever!

chatter box
Traditional Teej

With Teej just around the corner, the two leading ladies of Colors are all set to celebrate this occasion. Anandi (Toral Rasputra) of Balika Vadhu is keeping a fast. She says, "Teej is a festival that is celebrated for marital bliss and for the well-being of the spouse as well as the family. This year, it's a very special occasion for Anandi as it's her first Teej after getting married to Shiv. It's great to see women dancing and singing devotional songs to celebrate the occasion. Anandi will also be fasting for Shiv and pray for a better married life."

Bani (Shefali Sharma) of Bani- Ishq da Kalma adds, "Teej is one of the biggest festivals in Punjab. I have always seen my mother and aunts follow the rituals, visit Shiva temple and observe a fast. The best part about Teej is that I get to do lots of shopping; wear bright and colorful attires. It is also called festival of swings, where these are decked with flowers and hung from trees. Women dressed in green clothes make merry and sing songs." — HRM

The dancing superstars

After months of gruelling competition and many memorable moments, the country's biggest dance celebration, India's Dancing Superstar, came to a grand conclusion on August 3, 2013.

The top five finalists Palden-Khyati, MJ-5, Loyola Dream Team, Akshay Pal and Padmini-Debashish were seen battling it out on the dance floor till the very end, with some power-packed performances ranging from the moonwalk to gym routines and never-seen-before stunts.

The three judges — Ashley Lobo, Geeta Kapur and Riteish Deshmukh — waited while Once Upon A Time in Mumbai Dobara stars Akshay Kumar and Sonakshi Sinha opened the golden envelope, announcing MJ5 as the first-ever India's Dancing Superstar. Along with the IDS trophy, MJ5 won a cash prize of Rs 50 lakh. Receiving the trophy from Akshay and Sonakshi, MJ5 couldn't believe they had won the coveted title. The excited bunch was embraced by fellow contestants and their family members. "It's an unbelievable moment for us, all our hard work has finally paid off. We would like to thank our choreographers and the judges for their continuous support, the nation for voting and Star Plus for turning us celebrities over-night," said R. Karthik from MJ-5. This debut season of the dance reality show aimed at providing a platform to the most passionate and talented dancers in India.

"We all were sure who would be the top five to make it to the finale and am happy that the best contestants made it. MJ-5 has been very strong contenders from the beginning. It's their hardwork that has resulted in this glorious win." said Ashely Lobo. "I am proud of the decision that the viewers made, we all have been a great family and I am going to miss everything," said Geeta Kapur. 

Turning host 

Vikrant Massey, who recently garnered critical acclaim for his role in the movie Lootera, will soon be seen as the host of the upcoming show on Bindass, Yeh Hai Aaashqui. Vikrant, has portrayed numerous roles on television, but this will be his first stint as a host.

The show is set to showcase the ever-changing face of love. As the host of the show, Vikrant will play a pivotal role in each episode, taking the audience through stories of love and relationships that are considered out of the ordinary and unconventional in our society. Vikrant's interest in the show was heightened by the show's promise of showcasing unconventional love stories, much like Lootera. 

Name game

The entertainment industry is riddled with superstition, so it wasn't surprising to know that the new entrant in Life OK's Devon Ke Dev… Mahadev, Pooja Bose, who now plays Parvati, has got a new spelling. Instead of Pooja Bose, she will now be known as Puja.

B-day bash

Sara Khan, who got a lot of attention after Bigg Boss, celebrated her birthday recently. She was seen with her boyfriend Paras Chabbra and her close friends from the industry. About her birthday resolution, she said, "I have decided to be happy as always." Other guests like Sanjeeda Sheikh, Mouli Roy, Rohit Verma, Rakesh Paul and Angad were seen shaking a leg on the occasion.

Sara Khan, who has been offered different roles on television, has planned to go slow with her shows. The actress was seen dancing with her love and enjoying the sweets.

Stolen & shaken

Bigg Boss winner Urvashi Dholakia suffered a shock when after visiting a five-star hotel she realised that valuables and cash were stolen from her car. Sources claimed that she realised it once she reached home and has lodged a complaint in Bandra police station.

Astro Turf
P. Khurrana

ARIES: You start the day in a philosophical mood. Do not jump to conclusions in haste. It is not a good day for forming partnership. Ventures can fail when associates withdraw support. Savings can get used up. Tarot message: Accept responsibility for yourself and others. Lucky colour: Mauve.

Magic number: 25

TAURUS: Kids keep you busy. A few people will be making waves today. You will not be able to have things your own way. Marital difficulties can be eased through a mutual friend.

Tarot message: Your determination to succeed will pay rich dividends. Lucky colour: Saffron.

Magic number: 44

GEMINI: Do what you can to improve the relationship with your spouse. Emotions must not be allowed to rule your head. A personal project will have to be put aside for the sake of a social commitment. Tarot message: Use your instinct to get into the top circle of power. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 30

CANCER: Money problem will continue to bother. Keep calm even if people around you are losing their heads. Your parents need extra care. Tackle children gently. A spiritual approach to the day will suit you best.

Tarot message: Do not transact in uncertain matters. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 47

LEO: Start making the changes you keep talking about - a new diet, an exercise regimen, quitting smoking or dating a new type of person. An unsatisfactory relationship can come to an end.

Tarot message: Emphasise on spiritual needs.

Lucky colour: Yellow.

Magic number: 51

VIRGO: The card "The Lovers" signifies that a friendly and helpful atmosphere surrounds you. People are likely to be drawn to you now, so dress to impress. You may clash with a partner or friend over a difference of opinion.

Tarot message: You gain by being practical. Lucky colour: Black.

Magic number: 63

LIBRA: A chance to get in with the movers and shakers can come your way. Your ambitions can be realised if you use your connections. Don't be secretive about your aims and be practical.

Tarot message: You will be happier if you retain the fruits of your hardwork. Lucky colour: Metallic-grey. Magic number: 52

SCORPIO: Keep a clear mind, as you are likely to face too many challenges. If you start to get confused, nothing will work. You are in danger of blowing your budget if you don't practice restraint. Tarot message: Don't waste an opportunity by not exploiting a contact. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 50

SAGITTARIUS: Give attention to little jobs today. Taxation matters will be adjourned. Check all information regarding legal matters. Watch your thinking as it can easily spin you into a depression.

Tarot message: Consolidate your gains. Lucky colour: Brown.

Magic number: 56

CAPRICORN: Gossip will bring you down and you might hear something you would rather not know. Your creative juices are flowing. Your popularity is on the rise and a leadership position can be offered to you. Tarot message: Frankness and ability to state the truth are your strong points. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 33

AQUARIUS: Unstable influences suggest uncertainty. Be compassionate and try not to judge people harshly. Take a moment to be grateful for those small things that make everyday life so full and rewarding. Tarot message: Avoid frictions with business partners.

Lucky colour: Pink.

Magic number: 41

PISCES: Any change made at work or in your job brings favourable results. Domestic wrangles are sorted out. Enemies continue to backstab you. Do not take people on face value.

Tarot message: Your own aims, ideas and opinions matter a lot.

Lucky colour: Peach.

Magic number: 30





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