The globe in sync
Reaching out to a global audience is not difficult in today’s times. Thanks to YouTube, most musicians can spread their notes across the world. Here are a few from Chandigarh who have done the same...
Amarjot Kaur

Of the many marvels that evolution has bestowed upon us, the one on which it depends most is technology. With the internet, specifically YouTube, musicians across the globe have found a portal that allows easy accessibility and that too free of cost! Post the Chandigarh-based musicians Hari and Sukhmani, and Delhi-based vocalist Shraddha Sharma's success stories, courtesy YouTube, let's take a look at some Chandigarh-based bands that hope to make it big on YouTube.


The Local Train

Swastik the band

Adamya Sharma

Rock solid

They are: The Local Train

Band members

Lead vocals/Acoustic guitar: Raman Negi

Lead guitars: Paras Thakur

Bass guitars: Ramit Mehra

Drums/percussions: Sahil Sarin

Internet presence: They are active on reverbnation, myspace, YouTube, BC Radio (online radio by a Mumbai-based firm), musicsellers.com, radioflote.com, vimeo, Facebook, Twitter and gimmisound.com.

Songs on YouTube: Choo Lo Mujhe and Bande. "Even before we came up with a channel on YouTube, a lot of songs of our live gigs at several universities, including Thapar University and IIT Patna, had been uploaded; now that speaks volumes about the portal. Finally, we decided to launch our YouTube channel and our song, Choo Lo, was an instant hit.

The right clicks: "The maximum views that we have received are on our song, Choo Lo. We have 1, 10,426 views and 643 likes. Also, we will be launching our album on YouTube in a couple of months," he shares.

Their choice: "To be on the YouTube, you don't need a specific account and that assures maximum connectivity. It allows the band to connect with their audience," says Ramit."

On record

They are: Swastik the band

Band members

Lead guitar/vocals: Rohit Joshi

Lead vocals: Karan

Rhythm: Rishabh

Drums: Parth

Bass guitar: Pankaj

Internet presence: They are active on YouTube, reverbnation, myspace and soundcloud.

Songs on YouTube: Kuch bhi karlo, Daroo, Kahani Pyari si, Jogi and Andhere Sheher. "It was in November that we decided to put up the song Kuch bhi Karlo on YouTube and we have already got over 29,000 views. Also, the song Daaru has as many as 30,000 views, while Kahani and Jogi have 2,000 and 4,000 views, respectively. We are putting up an official video of Andhere Shehar too," says Rohit Joshi.

The right clicks: "We have received the maximum response for our songs Kuch bhi karlo and Daaru; more than 400 people have liked the song," says Rohit.

Their choice: "YouTube can capacitate the visual element which adds to the audio and any event company or music channel first looks at your YouTube account to access the popularity of any band," says Rohit.
Saahil and Ipshita
Saahil and Ipshita

Two's company

They are: Saahil and Ipshita

Band Members:

Lead guitar/vocal: Saahil Kapoor

Female lead vocals: Ipshita

Percussion: Goldie

Lead guitar: Hitkarsh Channana

Bass guitar: Sukhjeet Chaggar

Internet presence: Only on YouTube and Facebook.

Songs on YouTube: Mai raahi, Kaise naadan, Tu nahi milta. "The channel has about 10,000 views," says Saahil Kapoor.

The right clicks: "Our song Main Rahi has 46 likes and over 3,000 views. Also, Puneet Jawendah features in it," he shares.

Their choice: "YouTube was a clear choice because of its credibility. Portals like reverbnation adds its views on the basis of number of clicks, so most of the time bands click on their own song and the number of views keep increasing," says Saahil while adding, "YouTube provides for genuine data when it comes to the number of views and likes."

One up

They are: Shubhank Sharma

Band Members: Shubhank is a one-man army, who records music with session musicians. He is the lyricist and music composer. "For the release of my first album, I am in talks with MTV though I have put one of the songs on YouTube," says Shubhank.

Internet presence: Apart from uploading his songs on YouTube, Shubhank has a website — shubhankhimalayan.com

Songs on YouTube: Yeh kya Jageh hai dosto, which is a nostalgic number about an individual's memories of his college and school days. He is launching twelve other songs by the end of this year.

The right clicks: "In just about three days of uploading the song, I have received over 6,000 views and 250 likes," he shares.

Their choice: "The major reason for uploading my music on YouTube was to give a visual appeal to my audio," says Shubhank.

Moving up

They are: Adamya Sharma

Band members:

Vocal/guitar: Adamya Sharma

Drums/percussions: Parth Julka

Internet presence: They are present on the YouTube, Facebook and soundcloud by the name adamyop.

Songs on YouTube: Jal Barsey (77,694 views), Mahiya (3348 views), Rainbow runner (1142 views), A melody I hear (1137 views), Safar (580 views), Soldier story part (680 views), Lamb of god-acoustic cover (9639 views), Jal Barsey acoustic version (16,000 views) and acoustic wonders (101 views).

The right clicks: "We have got the maximum likes for Jal Barsey and there are a few more which are for other famous bands like Dream Theater and John Mayer," says Adamya.

Their choice: "I need to market myself before I go and perform live gigs; there is no proper 'paid way of advertising', so we are on YouTube, which gives maximum coverage to our band," he shares.

amarjot@tribunemail.com

A sweet tune
Nandini Srikar was born with melody. With time, she has become a name to reckon with in the world of music 
Mona

It took Nandini Srikar sometime to find her heart's calling. Once immersed in the world of music, she chose to stay. This singer-composer is upbeat about being part of Animal Planet's Yeh Mera India animal anthem as much about her single Pa Pa Pa 9giotis.
Nandini Srikar
word wise: Nandini Srikar 

"We as human beings think only about ourselves; in the process we have disturbed the balance between nature and humans," says the singer.

Music was Nandini's companion since the very beginning. She started learning at the age of three and it was little more than a hobby till she got into Bollywood. "And, here I am to stay; just can't think of going back to office," says Nandini.

Fifteen long years in the industry, it was Bhare Naina in Ra.One that fetched her best playback singer trophy. Despite the nomination, she did not expect to win. "I recorded and completely forgot about the song till the nominations came. Even then winning was last on my mind. I was pitched against the regular stars. Getting the award actually shocked me," laughs Nandini. Singing, collaborations and her single have kept her occupied. "My single Pa Pa Pa 9giotis talks of how we have lost touch with the self. The outer, materialistic world has taken total control of our lives and we have lost the real connect somewhere."

Well, Nandini realises the present predicament, many don't. She is pained that we are not doing enough to save the earth. "Yeh Mera India animal anthem is a call to move beyond the self and make the earth a habitable place for everyone. We have been too self-centered and plundered the flora as well as the fauna for our gains. But we have failed to realise that nature exists on fine balance. By killing other species, we are endangering our own lives."

The anthem was composed to commemorate the 67th year of India's Independence by Animal Planet. The multi-lingual song was composed by Salim and Sulaiman Merchant and sung by Salim, June Banerjee and Nandini Srikar in Hindi, Bengali and Tamil, respectively, in a way that epitomises the magnificent and spectacular wildlife of India. 

Kiss & tell

Veena Malik Starlet Veena Malik refused to lock lips with her alleged boyfriend Ashmit Patel. Veena and Ashmit are shooting for the film Supermodel. Veena has shot few steamy scenes with Ashmit but when she was asked to smooch the actor, she refused.

"When I narrated the lip-lock scene to Veena, she refused to do it. I had to convince her a lot to do that scene. There are around three to four lip-lock scenes in the film between Veena and Ashmit," said the director of the film Navin Batra.

"Both the actors were not on talking terms when they shot for the intimate scene. They did the scene but after a point they were not comfortable", Navin added.

Veena and Ashmit were together at one point of time but now they are not on talking terms. They parted ways a few months after Bigg Boss 5 was over. They met on the set of this show and their love story blossomed. Their romance on the show raised the TRPs when they openly flirted in front of the cameras installed at Bigg Boss house. But when the show ended up, their romance too gradually faded away.

The director intentionally cast the controversial couple. Navin Batra said, "Veena suited the role and they are the most controversial and best selling couple. Yes, it was difficult to convince both of them but despite not being on talking terms, they accepted the role and took it professionally".

In movie Supermodel, Veena Malik plays a supermodel and Ashmit plays a photographer.

The film is slated to release on September 27.

Shake a leg

Sunny Leone Indo-Canadian adult actress Sunny Leone, who entered the showbiz industry here with reality show Bigg Boss, has reportedly been approached for the sixth season of celebrity dance reality show Nach Baliye.

"Sunny Leone has been approached for the show. But it is not confirmed whether she will be a part of it or not," a source close to the show revealed.

Other celebrities, who have been approached for the show, include chef Kunal Kapoor who is currently busy with Junior Masterchef, Ripu Handa, winner of Masterchef India, former cricketer Sourav Ganguly and television actor Shabbir Ahluwalia.

Nach Baliye 5 ended early this year and Jay Bhanushali and his wife Mahii Vij won the show.

Sunny was also seen in the movie Jism 2. — IANS

Singing for a cause

The Deputy Correspondence Coordinator, Jennie Vine, on behalf of Queen Elizabeth of England, has sent a letter of appreciation from Buckingham Palace to veteran music composer Bappi Lahiri for composing a melodious track, Long Live Our Queen and sending across the CD as a gift on the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty's coronation.

The song is a fusion of Ganesh Vandana with a prayer that blesses the Queen. Interestingly, Bappi Da was also awarded the Justice for Widows Award recently for his composition and contribution on International Widows Day at The House of Lords. 

Films every woman should watch…
Indie filmmaker and recipient of many awards for her movie, For Real, Sona Jain shares with us her top five picks

Gandhi: Richard Attenborough's Gandhi is iconic, timeless and a must see for everyone (male or female, but especially for young females). I was a kid when I saw this film for the first time and its message went straight to my heart — with perseverance and hardwork you can achieve anything, no matter how impossible the dream seems today. Tops my list of favourites.

Talk to Her: I adore all of director Pedro Almodovar's works, but this film, along with his All About My Mother, are pure gems! With his strong female characters (or male characters in touch with their femininity), their unique quirks, the humour and humanity with which they navigate love, devotion, kids, grief, ageing, disease and testy relationships... you never want this film to end.

Bridget Jone's Diary: Directed by Sharon Maguire, adapted from a super popular book by Helen Fielding of the same title. American star, Renée Zellweger plays a thirty something Englishwoman who is constantly trying to a) self-improve and b) find true love. Watch this film whenever you want to laugh at yourself. It's about accepting and (dare I say) about loving yourself, "just as you are."

Bridesmaids: A laugh-out-loud drama-comedy directed by Paul Feig and co-written by Kristen Wiig (who is unforgettable as the film's leading lady, Annie Walker). The film is about BFFs, female friendships, how hard women are on themselves and how far can they lean on their best friend before they break the friendship and/or themselves. Women have loved it for long!

Caramel by Nadine Labaki: Watch it for the gorgeous Labaki, her motley crew of women with whom she runs a beauty parlour in Beirut. Watch it for the various hues of feminine crises — to be heart-broken by an affair with a married man, to ignore men who are good to you, to be the daughter who disappoints, to want to reinstate one's lost virginity in a traditional society. The film touches it with humour and visual beauty.

John excited about Jobs

John Abraham Actor John Abraham feels Hollywood movie Jobs, which releases along with his political thriller Madras Cafe, will be a great project.

Directed by Joshua Michael Stern, Jobs is a biopic on late Apple co-founder Steve Jobs and actor Ashton Kutcher will be seen playing the lead role.

"I am really excited about that film. I didn't know earlier that it was releasing along with Madras Cafe. Ashton Kutcher is playing the main lead and I think it will be a great film," John said in a statement.

Showing the light

After watching The Light: Swami Vivekananda at the special screening in Gandhinagar, Chief Minister Narendra Modi has declared the film tax-free in Gujarat. He was present at the screening along with his cabinet ministers.

Narendra Modi was all praise about the film and made an appeal to the youth of the nation to watch the inspiring biopic. During the screening there were many instances when the audiences, moved by the inspiring words of Swami Ji, broke in to rousing rounds of applause. Narendra Modi also congratulated the team of The Light: Swami Vivekananda for their efforts and putting together a great film.

The movie has been declared tax-free in the state of West Bengal too, which is the birthplace (Kolkata) of Swami Vivekananda. The Light: Swami Vivekananda is a film that captures Vivekananda's life and his rise to spiritual enlightenment. The movie covers different phases of his life encompassing his transition from the young Narendra Nath Datta to the world renowned Swami Vivekananda, who was a key figure in introducing the Indian philosophy to the Western world.

Made under the banner of Tricolour Productions, the film is slated to release on August 23.

I enjoy being active: Nargis Fakhri

Nargis Fakhri Rockstar actress Nargis Fakhri likes to rock. She is also very particular about her fitness and diet. The 33-year-old's says that her fitness regime includes "healthier food, plenty of water and getting at least eight to 10 hours of sleep. Also, I like to mix up yoga and zumba."

"I enjoy being active so, I also opt for long walks, biking or tennis. Sometimes I take a spin class at a local gym. I need variety," added Nargis. — IANS

Variety please: Nargis Fakhri

Step up

Prateik Actor Prateik, looking forward to his next film Rum Pum Posshh, has revealed that Neil Nitin Mukesh wouldn't be part of the film.

"Next up is Rum Pum Posshh. It's a psychological thriller and I play a writer," the 26-year-old said on Tuesday at an event. When asked how is Neil as a co-star in Rum Pum Posshh, Prateik said: "He was (in the film), but he is no longer in the film."

Prateik is happy with the response to his last film Issaq, but feels it could have done better. "I wish it could have done a little better, but I am happy, and satisfied. As a character, I was happy with what the director gave me," he said.

Directed by Manish Tiwary, Issaq was an adaptation of William Shakespeare's play Romeo & Juliet and marked the debut of actress Amyra Dastur. The film received critical appreciation but did not do too well at the box office. — IANS

the ‘in’ side
Man cave
A man’s own space in a house is essential
Renu Soni

Let me begin by explaining the term. A man cave, also known as a manland, mantuary or manspace, is a male sanctuary totally off limits to the opposite sex.

It can be a garage, spare room, the basement, or even a shed. Here the male species is free to behave in whatever manner without upsetting the boss of the house. According to psychologist Scott Haltzman, “... it’s important for a man to have a space he calls his own. It can provide refuge from stressful surroundings and be beneficial to a relationship!”

Man caves have multiple purposes – a place to be alone, away from women, pursue a hobby, and of course hang out with male friends.

So gentlemen, if you want to have your own private space within your home, here are some suggestions to get you started.

* Remain in the mutually agreed space, don’t get carried away. Encroachment is forbidden.

* A suitable colour scheme for a man cave would be browns, beiges, greys, blacks and navy, all very masculine hues. Play with tones, bring in contrast or go totally monochromatic.

* As for the floors and walls, wood and stone are ideal options. Textured stone tiles on a feature wall would really make a statement, as would wooden panelling for the complete room.

* The large flat TV screen and bar are the main elements of a man cave.

Once these have been put in place, one can start to fill the void between them with furniture like sofas, armchairs, cinema seats, sideboard, side tables and a coffee table. Upholstery should include leather, suede, velvet or linen. Plain colours will work well with a touch of stripes, checks, or a bold self pattern.

* Activity related items can also be added such as a pool/billiards table, a darts board, foosball, chess, carom board, a cards table etc.

* Good lighting is essential as mood plays a big role in this unique space. Low lighting, table lamps and floor lamps would be your right choice. Of course with a particular activity or bar, pendants and down lighters will be more appropriate.

* In order to complete the entire look, don’t forget to accessorise. You may want some expert advice from your partner here. Artwork, framed photographs, memorabilia, sculpture, a rug and coloured LED signs are some of things that will help bring the ambience together.

Soni is a city based interior designer

Heaven on two wheels
Avid biker Ashish Choudhury has traversed the length and breadth of the country. His experiences are as exciting as they are enriching
Jasmine Singh

PG Tenzing’s book Don’t Ask Any Old Bloke For Directions has become a staple diet for people who have an urge to pick up their bike and plan a trip…out of the blue. Ashish Choudhury, a passionate rider who zipped past Chandigarh on his Royal Enfield, hasn’t read the book. But yes, his experience about asking directions is pretty different.

“Most people I ask directions on my ride tend to give me a wrong direction. Now, I prefer to ask at least three people if I lose my way,” he says as a matter of fact. Ashish continues his story with us, promising to read the book.

So this is not out of the blue passion. “I purchased my first motorbike, a Bullet in 1981 for Rs 14,600. I have been riding ever since. Now, I have graduated into a long distance biker,” he adds. It is on one of his long distance ride, Bengaluru to Khardung La that Ashish had stopped in Chandigarh. “I started from Bangalore on July 31 and reached Khardung La on August 12. I have covered most of the treks, this was by far the only one that I wanted to see,” he shares.

Bikers always come with a bagful of stories and loads of experiences. Ashish, who works as a general manager in a private company has his bit to share, “I love soaking the countryside. My mind is virtually empty while I am riding. There is one thing that I now appreciate is that on-lookers, the passersby are always very helpful towards the person who is riding solo on a bike, especially if they see an elderly man like me,” he laughs. Not all is good when you are riding on roads with huge potholes, he laughs, “My bike is the happiest on clean roads. During my ride to Khardung La, I met the worst roads. I wish something could be done about them.”

Ashish has done a Kashmir to Kanyakumari trek in 2011, a beautiful trip that will sit as the most beautiful experience of his life, including many others of course. “I see a lot of riding clubs, which is good. I see the youngsters riding are a fearless lot, they just need to touch base with realities,” he adds not making it sound like an advice. But there is one advice that he would like to offer. “I invest a lot in biking gear, my riding jacket is waterproof; besides my bike is always in a good condition, you never know when I feel the urge to ride again…out of the blue!”

jasmine@tribunemail.com

TRENDSETTER
Confident stride

Style and trends have now become a part of life and also a lucrative profession. Baljinder Kanda, a student with INIFD, knows his mind and wants to learn the nuances that go on in this fascinating world of design.

Your sense of style?

For me well groomed hair and balanced colour co-ordination mean style.

Latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories…

A watch from Hever and a pair of shoes from Rosso Brunello.

Brand crazy or street pick-up?

Only brands for me.

Who is your style icon?

Akshay Kumar.

Who do you think is the worst dressed celebrity?

I think that would be Bobby Deol.

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

Glamorous and sporty, depending on the occasion.

One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension?

Coloured jeans for boys is what I don’t like.

Your take on accessories…

I do like accessories but only end up wearing the customary belt and watch only.

What gives you a high on the confidence level?

My formula is simple, look good and feel confident!

(As told to Poonam Bindra)

vanity box
Prim(e) & proper
Manpriya Singh

Not to prime is a crime! The slogan from Australian line, Napolean Perdis, puts things as straight and simple as it can. Anybody even remotely initiated with the make-up jargon would call putting primer a perfect warm up exercise before the art of making up. Open pores, blotchy nose or wrinkled foundation, there’s a lot that needs to be set right. Some peg it as the beauty must-have in your forties, others call it the instant route to perfection.

The beauty experts and make-up artists have emphasised time and again, how preparing a canvas is essential before painting it. How hiding the flaws is essential before highlighting the assets and how getting even skin tone is vital before contouring it.

Just because it’s invisible, doesn’t mean it’s imperceptible.

What the artists say

Those in the business of beauty swear by the power of a primer. Tanvi KG of I Style Makeovers says, “I cannot function without a primer. A primer prepares your skin for the foundation and further make-up. There are primers aimed at controlling oil, some for radiance and others for just a flawless look.” She adds, “It’s the best bet if you want make-up to stay longer. A primer is what I rely on when I want my brides to look like a million bucks and reflect the natural radiance.” When the foundation fails to hide the open pores and wrinkled skin, there’s time to go a little skin deep and beyond the foundation routine.

Moving on, there are lip primers and there are eye-shadow primers to do the needful on the eyes and the lips. “Eye shadow primers are basically aimed at making the colours last longer and hide the crease lines. While lip primers make your lips appear fuller and smoother,” shares Antara Dhamija, make-up artist, with a city based salon. She adds, “At first, they might sound like a cosmetic company’s marketing gimmick to sell more products, create demand where none exists. But that’s not the case, primers have actually been the best kept beauty secret of artists and experts.”

Just that the vital piece of information took long to travel from the professional kits to everyday vanity box. Nobody would really care to reveal that the best of cosmetics have actually visible effects and invisible presence on the face. Get primed and proper is the way to go.

manpriya@tribunemail.com

it’s rocking
Big applause!
Amarjot Kaur

You can love her you can hate her, but you cannot ignore her. With all the controversies that have been whirling around the pop singer, she lifts the veil with much force and faces the music, only this time the applause gets louder…with the release of Applause, the lead single of her upcoming album Artpop, Gaga seems to have ventured on the electropop turf that gets this song rolling on 140 beats per minute. Here is what Chandigarh folks have to say about this track.

Signature style

I am in love with the song. It has that original touch to it that is very typical of Gaga and the lyrics too are amazing. I think Gaga seeks much inspiration from her own experiences and that shows in her songs as well.

Amrit Pal Singh, civil engineer

Sound vocals

From an article mentioned in the Washington Post, I reckon that Gaga’s vocals are being compared to Annie Lennox and David Bowie in her new song, Applause. I think she has very powerful vocals and once you hear the song, you’ll know what I mean! I think this is Lady Gaga at her best.

Aman Suraj, musician

Music matters

The song has a very bouncy disco feel to it and that revives the pop today.

Ankit Mahajan, student

Back to the roots
Punjabi writer Iqbal Singh Dhillon has recently released a book Jagde Deeve, which has 82 ghazals
Mona

Iqbal Singh Dhillon Aukha, bhaira, goorha nehra phir bi pand makauna Aa taliyan te rakh ke turiye yeh jo jagdey deeve…are the lines from Jagde Deeve, an anthology of ghazals penned by Iqbal Singh Dhillon. At 68, Dhillon leads an active life, physically as well as intellectually. A practicing naturopath, he spends his days growing vegetables and reading as well as writing.

"Those with a creative streak must give it back to the society," says Dhillon, who labours over his works for he wants to give something meaningful. His recently released book Jagde Deeve has 82 ghazals. But they are not on saki, beauty or love, which traditional ghazals talk about. His subject is life, its problems and solutions. Having extensively worked as director, Youth Welfare, Panjab University, for many years Dhillon has worked extensively with youngsters and continues to write as well as guide them post his retirement too.

He has written on Sikhism, Folk Dances, Punjabi Verse Techniques, Naturopathy and more. His upcoming books are on Phonology of Punjabi and Punjabi Prosody. Dhillon is currently busy penning his next on Philosophy and the basis of Sikhism. "My challenge is to write in a simple form that's accessible to all," says Dhillon. His earlier books have received much accolade for they talk of our culture and heritage. And, going back to the roots is what he advocates. "Life would always be a mix of good, bad and ugly. It's much about the attitude that we adopt. Here are few lines from his recent anthology:

Kinna kuch rah gaya kinna kuch deh gaya O vi kinna kuch hai muthi vich jo rah gaya (we might have lost a lot but we can begin once again with what is left).

chatter box
A bond to cherish

Pratyusha Banerji of Balika Vadhu fame went to her friend Ankit Gera's sister's wedding. While Ankit's character in Sapne Suhane Ladakpan Ke has been fighting with his onscreen sister, Rachana, off screen, he took a leave to attend his real sister's wedding. Ankit's girlfriend, Adaa Khan too accompanied him.

Vikas Sethi Happy to be back

After being lost in the oblivion, Vikas Sethi is back on TV after almost two years. He is glad to have bagged role of the son of veteran actor Alok Nath in Do Dil Bandhe Ek Dori Se. Earlier he did a cameo in the show Uttaran for the same makers.

Divyanka Tripathi Next in line

Divyanka Tripathi is awaiting her next big show with Balaji called Mera Tera Rishta Purana. Based on author Manju Kapoor's novel, Custody, the show also stars Cezanne Khan. While they have shot few episodes, they are now waiting for the show to be slotted. She will return to drama after her debut show Banoo Main Teri Dulhan. She recently shot for an episode in a show called Beta Hi Chahiye.

Birthday boy

Mohit Raina, who essays the role of Lord Shiva in the show, Devon Ke Dev Mahadev, celebrated his birthday recently. It was not a grand party. Usually, he spends time with his parents and later with friends in evening. He got books, cards and flowers as gifts.

Shweta Kawaatra Shweta’s new world

Shweta Kawaatra is enjoying the experience of becoming a mother. She doesn't do anything except taking care of the baby. Shweta says that as it is there isn't anything great on TV content wise. In her free time, she prefers to read.

Bitten by the travel bug

Karan Singh Grover and Surbhi Jyoti went to South Africa recently for a promotional stage show and Gurmeet Choudhray and Kratika Sengar accompanied them too. Surbhi loved the experience and the weather. They all shopped a lot, but Surbhi, who is a vegetarian, had a tough time finding something edible. At the same time, Karan, Gurmeet and Kratika had a great time.

Pleasant retreat: Karan Singh Grover and Surbhi Jyoti

Javed Jaffrey, Not in the rat race

Talking about the current crop of dance reality shows, Javed Jaffrey, who gave the super hit dance show Boogie Woogie feels Dance isn't the main focus of these shows. Javed who is not only an actor but also a comedian, choreographer and producer will be seen in movies now. He feels his show that ran for 15 years was all about dance and honed the skill of young dancers.

Rohit bags the deal

After Hitler Didi and Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, Rohit Roy will be seen as the host of Mallika Sherawat's reality show, The Bachelorette India- Mere Khayalon Ki Mallika. Many other popular faces like Ayub Khan, Sameer Soni and Ronit Roy were approached but the deal didn't get finalized.

 

Dancing away to fitness

Choreographer Salman Yusuff Khan, who is currently seen on Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, shares his eating habits and fitness mantra.

How do you stay fit?

Dance is my mantra. It is great fun and a good way to exercise.

What's an ideal workout for you?

Dancing for sure and if not dancing then cross training.

What's your diet like?

Breakfast includes eggs and fresh orange juice. My lunch usually has chicken and carbs. I keep my dinner light. I have salads or roti for dinner. I like to have dry fruits in between.

Is there anything you avoid eating?

I avoid carbs in the evening.

How do you de-stress yourself?

Be it stress, anger, frustration or sadness, I dance it off. Even when I'm happy, I dance.

What are your tips for a happy life?

Happiness is never materialistic so don't ever keep running in pursuit of it. It's all around and within you. You just need to think happy.

Who is the fittest actor and actress according to you?

Any actor who's fit without the use of steroids is healthy and fit for me.

What's in your workout-bag right now?

My towel, roll on and perfumes, knee brace, extra pair of socks and boxers, tooth brush and dry fruits.

Your current workout playlist.

My all time favourite is Eye Of The Tiger and Feel by Robbie Williams.

Astro Turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: New business deals offered to you are worth considering. Artists get acclaim for their work and make good money. If married, you plan a romantic evening together. 

Tarot message: You are on the right track, so don't allow others to interfere in your way. 
Lucky colour: Lotus pink
Lucky number: 27

TAURUS: Business and work opportunities are plenty. Take one step at a time to climb up the ladder of success. You make an important effort to resolve family issues. Soul searching helps in many ways. 

Tarot message: Business problems must be solved carefully.
Lucky colour: Black
Lucky number: 59

GEMINI: You could have many public rivals. Focus on routine work and maintain a low profile. Overseas contracts are lucrative. An important project is likely to encounter hurdles. 

Tarot message: You should pursue your goals with concentration.
Lucky colour: Green
Lucky number: 26

CANCER: Friends and close relatives will refuse to come to your aid. Despite your best efforts, domestic life may remain disturbed. If you are fighting a legal battle, you will win after a slight delay. 

Tarot message: Your determination to succeed will pay dividends. 
Lucky colour: Blue
Lucky number: 48

LEO: Participation in a charitable activity is indicated today. The share market yields good profits after the recent uncertain phase. Unwind with loved ones. You struggle to keep your temper in check today. 

Tarot message: Don't allow others to interfere in your business. 
Lucky colour: Peach
Lucky number: 45

VIRGO: Finances need to be urgently sorted out. A happy event celebrated at home keeps you on your toes. Work related journeys are tiring. A father figure comes to your aid. 

Tarot message: Lack of confidence or lack of caution can leave you in losses; so be confident. 
Lucky colour: White
Lucky number: 25

LIBRA: Thoughts of giving up on a project may occupy your mind. A Cancerian surprises you with a generous gift. Be extra careful if you are signing any paper. Socializing will keep you busy.

Tarot message: Research well before undertaking any business.
Lucky colour: Red
Lucky number: 50

SCORPIO: There could be new career opportunities due to your past efforts. Spending quality time with your partner will be a priority for you. Travel plans for business or pleasure are possible. 

Tarot message: Try to make the most of financial opportunities.
Lucky colour: Grey
Lucky number: 58

SAGITTARIUS: Health is good but you need to take frequent breaks and watch your diet and fitness routine. Work will be hectic and you will have to juggle your schedule in order to meet your commitments. 

Tarot message: For best results, be open-minded. 
Lucky colour: Magenta
Lucky number: 51

CAPRICORN: Monetary gains due to astute financial planning are indicated. If there are important meetings today, you need to be focused as business associates will take a note of your ability to handle last minute changes. 

Tarot message: Don't get bogged down by small issues. 
Lucky colour: Yellow. 
Lucky number: 34

AQUARIUS: A trip is on the cards. You may be unable to make up your mind about an important decision, so don't hesitate to discuss matters with close associates as this will help you gain a better perspective.

Tarot message: Feel free to change your mind. 
Lucky colour: Forest green. 
Lucky number: 39

PISCES: You will be in a cheerful frame of mind. Going out of your way to help colleagues or loved ones will earn you good will and appreciation. Students need to fine tune their plans for higher education. 

Tarot message: Work only on those projects that promise results. 
Lucky colour: Pink
Lucky number: 57





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