Twist in the trend
Designer Manish Arora started this quirky trend of designs by using dramatic themes and psychedelic prints and now he has quite a few designers following in his footsteps
Ashima Batish

Whip creativity with wit to get quirky fashion. There is an inherent eccentricity to this segment of fashion but that doesn’t make it frivolous. It can be in a whole or in elements introducing edginess, like graffiti prints by designer duo Rixi Bhatia and Jayesh Sachdev or a few dragonflies hovering on the creations by Sayantan Sarkar at the latest edition of Lakme Fashion Week.

Designers say that quirky fashion gave a break to the industry from norms like embroidery, embellishments, floral prints, checks, among other stereotypes that defined fashion before Manish Arora, the poster boy of quirk in India, sent his designs down the ramp. Now, it’s so popular that at least 10 designers’ collection at LFW flaunted quirky ideas.

The beginning

Before Masaba Gupta used palms, camera, polka dots, lipstick, Kallol Datta did cycles, geometry patterns, Nikhil Thampi used fishes, Manish Arora had defined and redefined quirky fashion. Fashion designers still follow his model while working on dramatic themes. His psychedelic prints were Indian Fashion Industry’s first step towards experimentation. “He ventured into an unexplored territory when everybody else was making beautiful embroidery patterns,” says Sayantan, who weaved dragonflies motif in jamdaani. He picked up dragonflies for they are the epitome of transformation in Japanese mythology.

Quirk adds a strong statement to the garment, yet it’s not in-your-face, the reason so many designers are picking such elements, “Quirk is a deviation from the normal, which adds a level of curiosity and fun to the ensembles.” The same also contributed to Sonam Kapoor’s fashionista image, who sported Masaba’s unusual creations on more than one occasions.

Colour counter

Models showcase creations by Pria Kataria

Quirk makes prêt experimental. It might be a considerably new subject for fashion designers, but it is definitely going to be the favourite embellishment in coming times. Be it Masaba or Nitin Bal Chauhan’s much talked about Bhoot Savaar, quirk has contributed to the designers’ popularity. Rixi Bhatia and Jayesh Sachdev hope to achieve the same with their two-year-old label, Quirk Box. At their debut show at the LFW, they showcased playsuits, boyfriend jackets, pencil dresses, corset tops, even a saree with a cropped top in prints, colours and patterns that were every bit quirky.

“Quirk is about mixing colours that don’t conform to the usual colour scheme or off-beat patterns. We used a lot of cartoon characters but they were all originally done and not inspired from the already popular cartoon characters. A range of pop colours were used to create vintage cars also,” says Jayesh. An artist to begin with, he recently replaced canvas with fabric.

Structure sorted

While most of the designers at LFW restricted themselves to quirkiness brought in by colours, Riddhi and Siddhi went a step ahead to create quirky silhouettes. They conveniently added a bolero jacket to a tube top used as a blouse with a saree which again had a colourful jigsaw pattern.

“But it is very wearable at the same time. A designer’s creativity comes fore only when he makes something that has a different appeal and quirky silhouettes do promise that,” says Riddhi. She, however, maintains that there is a very thin line between making wacky and weird designs. “In a bid to channelise your creativity, you can’t ignore your client’s needs.”
 (L-R)Outfits by Quirk Box and Sayantan Sarkar
(L-R)Outfits by Quirk Box and Sayantan Sarkar

Another name who ventured in the less-forayed quirky silhouettes domain is Pria Kataria Puri. Her prints were as radical as the silhouettes. Strictly meant for resort parties and destination weddings, the creations, she asserts are not easy to copy. “I switched from couture to prêt and prints because it is not easy to make their replicas.” She terms her creations as wearable and sensuous. “Younger generation is ready to experiment with what they wear.” And quirk gives them the liberty to do so all the time.

ashima@tribunemail.com

 

Fun quotient

Nida Mahmood’s bicycle collection, Sabah Khan’s ode to autorickshaw; kitsch has many forms to it and it seldom fails to impress. Not difficult to incorporate, quirk can be added to the wardrobe by even shopping from the flea market. Here are a few tips:

  • All you need to do is pick tees with interesting prints or stoles.
  • Prints can range from that of objects to birds, animals or human faces.
  • Or a motif that repeats itself on the outfit, like lipstick print by Masaba.
  • It can even be a random overlap of colours, like psychedelic prints.
  • As for how quirk can be added to footwear, take an idea from Megha Samor, who presented her clothes and footwear collection at the LFW. 

the ‘in’ side 
As exclusive as it gets
The Design Centre at Chelsea Harbour is a one-stop-shop for top interior design brands

Renu soni

During a recent trip to England, I made sure The Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour, was very much on my itinerary. I had read about it several times, but never had the chance to visit.

The Design Centre is a one-stop-shop for exclusive home decor. It must be applauded for its efforts to bring together top interior design brands and their accessibility to all.

Having entered the lobby of the design centre, the first thing that struck me, was the building itself. It's contemporary yet charming - the centre comprises three circular structures flooded with natural light. Each is made up of four floors of boutiques and finished with an architectural glass and metal framed dome that opens to the London skies.

I was met by Sue at the exclusive Design Club (members only) who then accompanied me on a tour of the centre. Home to the biggest and best names in interior design and decor, it started with just four showrooms and has since gained immense popularity with designers and direct retail customers. Rental space is hard to come by these days as the centre boasts of a long waiting list.

Providing pure elegance and luxury, the 98 showrooms showcase over 500 of the world's prestigious brands--Armani/Casa, Ann Sacks, Fendi Casa, Illuminati Lighting, Romo, Victoria & Albert Baths, Tufenkian Artisan Carpets. Areas of decor include furniture, lighting, accessories, bathrooms, kitchens, carpets, yacht furniture, paint, hardware, outdoor furniture, tiles and wall coverings.

The centre even provides a personal shopping service--tuning into your style and needs, the service can save time and help you make the right choices. To avoid the needle in a haystack syndrome, this is something I would highly recommend particularly in the soft furnishings category. Going through their never ending range of books and samples can be a very daunting task.

So, for those of you who are simply seeking inspiration on an interiors project, do include the Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour on your visit to England.

(Soni is an interior decorator)

CELEB POINT
Missing Gannu bappa
Ganpati is celebrated for 11 days with the same fervour as Diwali and Dussehra
Divya Dutta

When I was in Punjab, we used to watch the Ganpati celebrations on TV. It used to mesmerise me, lakhs of people, immersion of the Ganpati idol and above all, the faith that Lord Ganesha would bring in happiness and prosperity for all.

When I shifted to Mumbai, I saw as we celebrate Dussehra and Diwali in the North, Ganpati is celebrated for 11days with equal fervour. And the belief and faith people have in Ganesha here!

I am not an overtly religious person but yes I do believe in the God Almighty and whichever form I feel him from the heart!

I used to get many invites when I came to Mumbai. “Please come home, we've kept Ganpati at home. I loved the idea of people inviting the near and dear ones when they got Ganpati baapa home as if it was a private event like a marriage or engagement. Like he was a family member, visiting home after a year and all were called to come and meet him. Once a neighbour asked me, “Aap bappa ko ghar kyu nahin laate?”

And I thought why not? I was apprehensive about the dos and don’ts but ultimately the urge and desire to get him home covered up for all the worries of rules to follow. It happened beautifully. He came home. We invited friends and mom made langar. People, who I'd not seen for a year, came too and we all chatted and bonded, right in the presence of Bappa. As if he was party to all that. Listening, observing, smiling!

I sent the invites this time too immediately after getting back from Durban. My invite said, “Gannu bappa is coming home and he would like to meet you.”

I love to call him Gannu bappa. That's my bond with him. An Australian friend misunderstood the invite as me wanting him to meet my brother Gannu!

On second thoughts, I felt that made sense too! He was like an elder brother who visits us annually and likes to meet all those close to us. Days are busy with people coming and going. The night time I sat with him. This time I just looked silently at him. Did I need to say or ask? I felt he knew it all. His overwhelming presence was so reassuring that I can't even explain! The second day all my friends gathered for the visarjan. My brother picked Gannu bappa up and our procession chanting Ganpati bappa morya, left for the beach. That's the sad part, to say goodbye, to say thank you for coming home, to say it felt great that you heard me even without my saying anything! For bringing in the festive atmosphere at home, for making me meet those I've not met for a while...for bringing smiles and laughter. As I see him being immersed in the waters, I had a lump in my throat, a wish to see him back soon next year and a little whisper…Ganpati bappa morya...purcha warship laukarya (comeback soon next year in Marathi). Bye until next year, Gannu bappa!

(Dutta is a Bollywood actress)

vanity box
Thin is not in
Manpriya Singh

Let’s face it, the looks should be so much that they raise many a brow. In awe and admiration, that is. The right shape of brows decides whether you are too surprised to react or bored beyond expression. Thick, thin, straight or arched can be quite a tough choice. For those who envy the thick brows of Family star Sofia Vergara, they are bang in sync with the current trends.

Pencil thin eyebrows dominated the fashion industry when teenagers idolised Pamela Anderson in Baywatch. Beautifully shaped, even and dark—isn’t that how they rule the ramp these days?

While a professional thread is the best way to ensure the desired shape, tweezers take care of a few wayward strands that need to be fixed at the eleventh hour. No matter how thin they are plucked or how thick they are grown, it’s never advised to shorten them.

“Nobody comes for pencil thin eyebrows nowadays. They are certainly out. But rather than following trends in brows, people like to have them customised. They generally go for whatever shape suits them and are not dictated by trends, especially in this matter,” shares Ravneet, manager, Affinity Salon.

The best brow for your face shape

While eyebrows are the best bet to shaping your face, they in turn, need to be in tandem with the shape of your face. A flat eyebrow shape shortens the face. For example, a long face can look too long if the eyebrows have a pronounced arch. Like with all other things, it depends. “A great pair of eyebrows can enhance or balance the other facial features, make or break your looks and even let the personality show through,” says city based freelance make-up artist Parul Duggal. 

 

How to get thick brows

For those who are naturally looking at enhancing the shape of their eyebrows, rubbing lukewarm olive oil on the brows at night, is said to work.

Natural remedies to get thicker eyebrows galore. Castor oil is considered a tried and tested formula for getting thick bushy eyebrows. Leave overnight and wash in the morning.

However, do not expect overnight changes. For those looking for much quicker effects, layering the brows lightly with a black pencil creates the illusion of fuller, darker brows.

Cosmetically speaking, brown coloured eye brow pencil can be used to thicken brows. Brown colour gives the illusion of a natural brow. Use small feathery strokes in the outward direction.

Be a shoe stopper

Juvalia & You intends to take your love affair for shoes to the next level. Inspired by the trends, Juvalia brings in footwear styling options with shoe clips. Revive, restyle and reinvent your shoes with trendiest shoe accessories. Dramatically expand your wardrobe with clip on bows, flowers, feathers, rhinestone and classic vintage styles.

Shoe clips are an economical accessory to transform and revive your favourite footwear and embellish for a special occasion, or add fun flair to casual wear. If you're looking for a great way to jazz up a simple pair of shoes, you can always clip on some drama with a pair of shoe clips.

Accessorise your shoes with these shoe clips and add oomph to your look with this fabulous invention by Juvalia & You.

Price range starts from Rs 350 onwards.

— TNS

Treat yourself

Big hunger and small budget? Walk-in to your favourite Pizza Hut restaurant from September 17 to October 10 for its unlimited pizza offer. Now you can treat friends with unlimited pizza - veg pizza for 199 per person and non-veg pizza for Rs 229 per person. The delightful offering is a ticket to your favourite lip smacking pan pizza treat at Pizza Hut!

The offer is available seven days a week during lunch and dinner at all Pizza Hut outlets across the country.

Commenting on Pizza Hut's unlimited pizza offers, Sandeep Kataria, brand general manager, Yum! Restaurants India subcontinent, said, "Spending, outings, fun and excitement have been limited for consumers across the country due to the plunging rupee, the economy and the general price hike. On the contrary, Pizza Hut makes yet another exception to the norm with our latest offering of unlimited pizzas.—TNS

When old is sexy!
Alex Robertson, international brand ambassador of the Chivas Brothers talks of the intricacies of single malt
Amarjot Kaur

Photo: Manoj Mahajain

One is strangely fascinated with the lines from Haruki Murakami's book, Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World, which read-Whiskey, like a beautiful woman, demands appreciation… you gaze first, then it's time to drink! At the JW Marriot, Alex Robertson, international brand ambassador of the Chivas Brothers, engages in an interesting conversation as he talks about his passion.

Alex worked as a journalist in current affairs with the BBC, London for over 10 years post which, he opted to become the brand ambassador of the second best single malt whisky brand in the world and he has been on the rolls for over six years now.

Pricey deal

"A scotch is primarily tested on the number of years that it has been distilled for. While the Glenlivet 15 (which has been distilled for over 15 years) is a favourite, what must reason the quality and pricing proportions of a scotch is the number of years that it has been distilled for," says Alex. While pacifying the curiosity and reasoning his statement, he adds, "As the scotch matures, almost a half of its quantity evaporates every year, thereby the price of a scotch runs directly in proportion to the amount of years that it has matured for." Well, we guess it's true when they say that the best things in the nature are for free, while the second best are the most expensive.

The whisky world

Alex defines several nuances of flavour and providence that are associated with whisky and especially scotch, as he says, "For any whisky to be called a scotch officially, it needs to be distilled in Scotland for a minimum of three years. Besides, there are as many as 100 distilleries in Scotland and every distillery has a unique taste of its own," he says.

So what exactly is the single malt and blended scotch? We find an answer in Alex's words as he shares, "Essentially, a whisky made at one particular distillery from a mash that uses only malted grain, ordinarily barley and when the single malt in question is the Glenlivet, it is best savoured after adding a little water. As the aroma fume up, the taste of the whisky is usually very sweet and sometimes smoky, since Glenlivet is let to mature in charcoaled barrels. Meanwhile, the blended scotch is a concoction of malt and grain whiskey."

Meet the meat

Alex advocates that it is best to serve smoked meat with the scotch. However, he cautions, "Drink responsibly!"

True meaning

While we say a "cheers to that", we'll let you know that the etimological meaning of Glenlivet comes from the word, Gaelic liobh + ait meaning 'slippery' or 'smooth' + 'place'. Whoever said that the course of true love never did run smooth!

 

Now you know

The Chinese have whisky in green tea.

The price of a single malt is determined by the number of years it has been matured for.

The first sip of a good whisky can taste as sweet as honey or even vanilla.

The word Whisky means-Water of life

One for the Jupiter

Strengthening its presence in the rapidly growing scooter segment, TVS Motor Company, one of India’s largest two wheeler manufacturers, launched its much awaited, new scooter, TVS Jupiter in Chandigarh. The company considers TVS Jupiter among the new wave of feature rich TVS products-- offering greater comfort, convenience and first time features.

It is powered by a next generation noise-free, all-aluminum, low-friction engine that delivers an amazing mix of power, superior acceleration and best in class fuel efficiency. The metal bodied Jupiter is styled to enthuse the male consumer. — TNS

TRENDSETTER
Pearls of wisdom

Who does not revel in an admiring second look or a glance? Some artfully hide their pleasure and shrug off the importance and some openly exhibit their happiness! But Neha Bhuyan, a student of fashion designing at SIFT, believes in admitting the obvious.

Your sense of style?

For me a style statement is a combo of graceful dressing, carrying one self appropriately and exhibiting the right attitude.

The latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories?

A ‘wow’ royal blue bag which doubles as a college and shopping bag.

Brand crazy or street pick-up?

Suitability is the keyword, brands notwithstanding.

Who would be your style icon?

Kareena Kapoor Khan sure knows how to carry herself in every attire!

Who do you think is the worst-dressed celebrity?

I guess that would be Sonakshi Sinha.

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

Sporty for me.

One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension…

Oh! Can’t seem to think of any. I like to try out all fashion trends.

Your take on accessories?

Pearls in any form is the best accessory

What gives you a high on the confidence level?

When I know that I am being noticed, it gives me a high and of course being with my family inspires confidence.

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

Sabyasachi for sure.

—As told to Poonam Bindra

star track
Meet me halfway

Love handle: Ranveer Singh

Ranveer Singh was flying back to Mumbai from South Africa but he had a stopover in Dubai and hung out with his alleged ladylove Deepika Padukone who is shooting Happy New Year over there.





 

All eyes on you


(Left). A model presents a creation from the Burberry Prorsum Spring/Summer 2014 collection. 
(Centre). Former England soccer captain David Beckham and his wife Victoria Beckham arrive for a London Fashion Week event to celebrate the Global Fund in London. 
(Left). Actress Sienna Miller arrives at the Burberry Spring/Summer 2014 collection at London Fashion Week. — Photos by Reuters

A token of devotion

Shruti Seth, who is an actress and an anchor, has a silver statue of Lord Ganesha and she celebrates the Ganpati festival every year. She does a token immersion ceremony also at home. How sweet that she is eco-friendly! More people should follow her.

Tanuja, Kajol upset with Tanishaa

Veteran actress Tanuja's younger daughter Tanishaa is going to take part in the reality show, Bigg Boss 7 but reports are doing the round that mother Tanuja and sister Kajol are unhappy with her participation in the reality show. "Of course, I didn't want her to go but she's going. It's her decision completely and my feelings have nothing to do with it! I am just wondering how she will manage to survive for three months - without a phone, without communication and doing nothing. I really don't know... My daughter has been extremely pampered all her life and I am concerned about the situations happening there and how comfortable she will be in them," she expressed her concern.




Neha is Destiny’s Child


Dance drama: Neha Sharma

Neha Sharma wanted to become a fashion designer but destiny had other plans for her. She talks about acting, fashion and much more.

New and exciting

I don’t want to do stuff that others have done before. There is no fun in it. However, I would love to act in a musical film. Action is another genre, which I want to explore. In fact, I want to do the hardcore action sequences on my own, something like Angelina Jolie did in Lara Croft: Tomb Raider.

The dancing queen

Dance is my passion. Being an actor, it is a part of my job profile. Hence, it’s important to know the craft. It is easier to grasp the dance moves of the choreographer if you know a bit of dancing yourself. Dancing keeps me fit and I enjoy it more than any other form of work out.

Foodie first

I am a Punjabi from Delhi and I love to eat. Fortunately, I can eat whatever I want and I lose weight easily even though I put on weight easily. I follow a healthy diet on five days and I let myself loose for two days. On those days I eat proper Punjabi khana and icecreams, chocolates, donuts, etc.

Health is wealth

In my profession, I am expected to look good on screen. Hence, I need to eat right and exercise well. I change my work outs as my body adapts well to the change and responds beautifully. I do weight training, cardio, yoga, swimming and kickboxing to stay in shape.

Comfortable in my skin

When it comes to fashion, I take it easy. I am more of a casual dresser, who loves her trousers, shorts and tees. I am not very fond of tight clothes and denims. But for a special occasion, I make an extra effort.


A splash in the pool

Shah Rukh Khan threw a pool party for the cast and crew of Happy New Year at his villa at Palm Jumeirah in Dubai. Everybody was being dunked into the water and even Deepika could not resist jumping into the pool.

Sense of deja vu

Showering praises: Raveena Tandon






Raveena Tandon feels that Shahid Kapoor reminds her of Govinda from the 1990s because he is a great dancer and a complete entertainer. She is looking forward to his movie Phata Poster Nikla Hero.










On a different high

Kai Po Che actor Amit Sadh loves reading and feels it is the greatest high in his life. He reads the regular bestsellers in all genres and the Bhagwad Gita too. 

Home away from home


Close-knit: Huma Qureshi 





Huma Qureshi is from Delhi but now her home is in Mumbai. She has been lucky to work with people who are down-to-earth. Every film unit becomes her family.











chatter box
Recreating magic of Mahabharat


PLUM ROLE: Saurabh Jain

Chances are that the youth of this country may be unable to identify the iconic characters and events of Mahabharat. Produced by Siddharth Kumar Tewary's Swastik Productions, viewers will be amazed to see the grand sets, never seen before VFX, stunning locations and an ensemble cast. Combining modern technology with intense story-telling, Mahabharat aims to target young audiences with this legendary saga, which is considered the second longest epic of the world. Star Plus has invested heavily in production to ensure that the most awaited show on Indian television presents a magnificent narrative and is a visual treat for audiences. Every detail of the show has been painstakingly put together, including the costumes, weapons and jewellery that have been designed after years of research!

The magnum opus is supported by a stellar cast that includes like Puneet Issar (Parshuram), Sayantani Ghosh (Satyavati), Aarav Chaudhary (Bheeshma), Ratan Rajput (Amba), Shaheer Shaikh (Arjun), Saurabh Jain (Krishna), Pooja Sharma (Draupadi) and Praneet Bhatt (Shakuni) among others. Talking about this ambitious project, Producer Siddharth Kumar Tewary said, "Every character has different shades. The beauty of storytelling is to justify a character and its action and graph without portraying him in black or white or a situation as right or wrong. It is an attempt to show the human side of every single character in the series, and reinterpret the old text without tampering with the sensibilities of the iconic story."

With creative associations ranging from writer Salim Khan, noted author Devdutt Pattanaik, Oscar winning designer Bhanu Athaiya, music directors Ajay-Atul and Ismail Darbar, action director Ram Shetty and Omang Kumar as set designer on board, Mahabharat has already raised the bar. 

The land of good and evil


The Bigg Boss house

Finally the new season of the most awaited reality show Bigg Boss 7 Saath is back, filled with twists and turns. The Bigg Boss 7 Saath house is an interesting mix of goodness of heaven and wickedness of hell.

Depicting the luxuries of heaven and animosities of hell, the house is divided into two halves. The heaven-like space is where the contestants can expect serenity, while the hell has a garage like set-up with rough floors and walls. The heaven side of the house not only has a pool but also a portion that has a ceiling designed like a skyline filled with clouds. The house features faux bookshelves, bars and a phone that will trigger temptations in the inmates. For the first time in the history of Bigg Boss, the house has a clock in the living room but there is more to it. Only time will tell.

The hell side of the house has beds arranged on the floor. Food is going to be a big concern for the contestants as the hell will not have facility of a kitchen. Also there is no demarcation between the bedroom and living area that will give the house a dormitory kind of a look. The washrooms inside the hell half will bring a tumultuous change in the lives of the contestants. The washroom has only Indian style sitting and the water is to be filled manually and used for all daily chores from a tap planted outside.

As if the Bigg Boss himself wasn't enough, this time around he has the assistance of a 'Warden' who will take the charge of keeping a close eye on the inmates. It is the only new element that is common for both the houses. Bollywood's ace designer Omung Kumar who has successfully brought alive the essence of heaven and hell inside the Bigg Boss house states, "The theme of the show is based on heaven and hell and the challenge given to me was to create two extreme conditions under the same roof. Following the brief, we created two different houses illustrating Jannat and Jahannum. We have played around with colors, patterns and have introduced quirky elements to justify heaven and hell." With new additions and an extraordinary theme, Bigg Boss season 7 this season promises to showcase entertainment like never before!

A call for equality


A still from Aakhir Bahu Bhi....

Sociologists wonder why joint families across India are making way for nuclear families. There are many reasons but the primary one is the expectations that mother-in laws and daughter-in-laws have from each other. And here is where Sahara One is looking to score with their brand new show Aakhir Bahu Bhi Toh Beti Hee Hai. It captures evolving relationships between mother-in-laws and daughter-in-laws. Payal Rajput and Prachee Pathak essay the lead roles. It is a story where bahus and betis are treated in a different manner. This story is set in Gorakhpur, UP and revolves around a typical conservative family where mother-in-law Naulakha Devi(Prachee Pathak) is very strict and dominating. She believes that the bahus of the house should be ruled with an iron hand and any change will break the entire house. On the contrary, the main protagonist Sia (Payal Rajput) is young, vibrant, bubbly and extrovert. She firmly believes that her sasural is not going to be any different from her maayka.

A still from Aakhir Bahu Bhi...

Tough times ahead


WRONG TURN: Deepika Singh





In this week on teej Sandhya forgets to keep the fast and eats something in Diya Aur Baati Hum. In the evening, during the Pooja, she confesses in front of everyone that she has broken the fast unknowingly. Bhabho is furious but Sooraj understands and consoles Sandhya.











The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is September 18...

The date indicates that you can work well in a group, but still be someone who needs to maintain individual identity. You are broad-minded, tolerant and a compassionate person, who can inspire others. In business, you might be required to work hard and sign a prestigious contract. A change in 2013-14 will make you give the best of yourself. Put your extra money in a safe place that will promise you returns in times to come. Work quietly towards your goals and do not disclose your motives before you reach success. Someone you are indebted to will try to make you change your mind about a decision you have already taken.

Positive colours: Brown, Golden.

Select days: Tuesday and Sunday

Favourable numbers: 5,6,9

Gems recommended: Emerald, Yellow Sapphire and Ruby

Charity on birthday: You may donate green vegetables, fodder, sweets at religious place.

You cut the cake with Shabana Azmi (September 18, 1950, New Delhi) wife of poet, lyricist, and scriptwriter, Javed Akhtar. She is one of the leading actresses of parallel cinema and a social activist too. Shabana is ruled by two strong numbers 6 and 9. While Venus secures her place in films and Mars helps her to remain strong-minded and bold.



Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Your card infuses financial stability. You will find appreciation and applause for your culinary talents. Delays can be expected today. Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health. Time will heal all pains and wounds. Lucky colour: Cherry red. Magic number: 43

TAURUS: Like The Knight of Cups, you are emotional in personal relationships. You are likely to find an ideal partner. Be bold to speak out what is in your mind. A guest is expected in the evening. Tarot message: Lack of persistence can be disastrous in business matters. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 47.

GEMINI: Plan some fun activities with friends and loved ones and leave stress behind. You will be quite amazed to find yourself taking on a more ambitious role. Tarot message: Don't waste an opportunity by being rash or impulsive. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 44.

CANCER: "Ace of Swords" pulls you in opposite direction when making a decision. A yearning for overseas travel and adventure could encourage a career of your choice. A chance meeting may lead to future romance. Tarot message: Keep your eyes on the future. Lucky colour: Fiery red. Magic number: 28.

LEO: Some very interesting and unusual people come into your sphere of and give you a few different ideas on how to go about financial matters. Loved ones may not fully understand your daily needs. Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health. Lucky colour: Lotus pink Magic number: 33.

VIRGO: "The Prince of Cups" brings you face to face with your hidden desires. You are good at getting people to express their opinions and keeping your own hidden. Try and understand what others around you are thinking. Tarot message: Be positive. Lucky colour: Peacock blue. Magic number: 36.

LIBRA: "The Lovers" facilitate you to be open and inspired by new ideas. A surprise phone call could put you back in touch with a friend you have not seen for a long time. Not a good day for starting up joint ventures. Tarot message: Do not be in the rush to spend extravagantly. Lucky colour: Silver grey. Magic number: 54.

SCORPIO: "The Priestess" infuses promise and commitment in personal relationship. Bring up the sensitive issues, which will encourage some open and revealing discussions. Tarot message: Spend time by meeting experienced people. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 37.

SAGITTARIUS: "The prince of Wands" comes riding with a promise of power and energy. Lots of secrets and undercover scenarios can make for an interesting day. Tarot message: You can make things happen out of the most unlikely circumstances. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 56.

CAPRICORN: "The Fool' infuses you with courage. A neighbour has some gossip to divulge. Make sure if you really want to hear secrets or rumours about someone. You find ways to express your creativity and emotions. Tarot message: Don't try to end all the deadlocks in one go. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 25

AQUARIUS: "Ten of pentacles" bode well for relationship and romance. You will enjoy interacting with people who share your views and thoughts. Good communication skills will enhance your reputation. Tarot message: Do not let trivial problems haunt you. Lucky colour: Deep red Magic number: 28

PISCES: The karmic "Wheel of fortune" turns in your favour. Do not put up with a headache or a neck-pain, visit a doctor or other health professional before it is late. A good day for romance. Tarot message: Capitalise on your strength and do not trust others. Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 32.





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