Stage of success
The theatre scene in City Beautiful is on the upswing. From empty stands to packed houses, the improvement is indeed heartening...
Mona

Theatre has seen a surge in the very modern city of Chandigarh. Now, we see banners of theatre festivals on roundabouts; cars scamper for space at the Tagore Theatre and people make a beeline for plays. Well, there was a time when artistes waited for the audience to start a play; now we have a full house much before time. We catch up with theatre people to talk about the change and much more.

Company matters

Journey so far

When I moved to Chandigarh to start a theatre group in 1983, I was advised by my colleague and whom I consider my teacher too, BV Karanth, to do theatre with local people; in the language of the state with regional energy. Along with traditional naqqals (female impersonators) and some trained in drama, I started The Company. In the 28-year-old association, we have translated and transformed the best literary classics to suit the milieu in Punjabi. Together we have evolved and established ourselves on the national and international map.

Support group

My actors have been my greatest strength. So has been Surjit Patar, who has helped in all translations and adaptations. Doing a play with a poet certainly brings an edge to the production. My cast works on stage, backstage; we clean before and after shows, also pull down sets together. The seed money comes from the Central Ministry of Cultural Affairs.

Challenges on way

To keep it going financially and emotionally has been quite a task. With my cast spread across cities, it becomes a challenge but we take out time for rehearsals and shows. While the audience in Chandigarh has been very supportive, I don't know why we are never invited for local theatre festivals.

Future take

Our recent production is Licence: The Untitled Saga. I am also doing this opera titled Naciketa in London next.

— Neelam Man Singh Chowdhry, The Company

Different take

Journey so far

Theatre in our region has made rapid strides. I have been doing plays for 25 years now. Between now and then, from rather linear plays, we have moved on to newer subjects, lights, sets, costumes that received little attention before. People who had to be persuaded to come and watch a play earlier are today theatre-regulars. I have acted in 130 plays, directed 62 and written many during my journey.

Support group

I got financial help from my friends, some government grants and from academies. But my greatest support has been my audience. I got such an enthusiastic response from the interiors of Punjab, invited by their youth clubs, panchayats, Lion's club and village committees; with just one announcement we have a gathering of 10,000 plus people for a single evening.

Challenges on way

Being Gurcharan Singh's student, I could have towed the line and had it easy. But I chose a new path that balances out the old order with the new. It's not easy striking the right balance, but the mandate of audiences has been in favour and very rewarding. I also never picked up any readymade plays; I have always tried to present something new.

Future take

Two of my current plays Paramvir chakar and Yudh Ate Budh are currently on. On the centenary of Gadar Lahar, I am soon presenting a play that juxtaposes the movement along with the current scenario.

— Sahib Singh, Adakar Manch

Audience appreciation

Journey so far

When we started in the late seventies, theatre and films were two major modes of entertainment; so much so that even theatre would have ticketed shows. With the advent of television and some other reasons, for two decades theatre was almost non-existent. It's the hardwork of artistes that the audience has returned to theatre. So far I have directed 40 plays with some 5,000 shows in India and abroad.

Support group

We derive sustenance from the audience. They have supported us right through; if we didn't have sets, lights or costumes, they have understood it was due to lack of funds and just appreciated our content. Monetary donations from audience and sponsorships from cultural societies sail us through.

Challenges on way

Theatre is challenging. Right from the script to finding actors to finding space for rehearsals, to staging and then to reaching out to the audience — it's a struggle. But then from this comes the satisfaction of a job well done.

Future take

We are gearing up for Oscar Festival in November and come January we will get the Winter Festival rolling.

— Sudesh Sharma, Theatre for Theatre

Pure passion

Journey so far

I am proud to be part of the movement in 1970s that led to the establishment of the Department of Indian Theatre and paved the way for professional theatre in the city. We have famous names like Neelam Ji doing theatre here today, as are so many groups that are sincerely and passionately involved. I have worked as an actor, director; given music, done scripts in this very gratifying, rich, long journey that's on with some 40 plays and 700 plus performances.

Support group

My father was my biggest support, my mother the opposite. I got a mentor in Gargi Saab and support of so many stalwarts of theatre.

Challenges on way

I remember for a play in 1975 I pawned my jewellery. It's only after I got sponsorship that I could get it back.

Future take

My solo play Bhikshu Aur Ganika is on. There another called Kasturba. I am also working on a very ambitious production Heer Ranjha that re-examines and reinterprets the love legend in the context of honour killings.

— Rani Balbir, Folk Theatre Workshop

 

Looking bright The theatre scene at present is very encouraging in Chandigarh. Seniors and juniors are coming together for productions, which is heartening. — Mahendra Kumar, Department of Indian Theatre

mona@tribunemail.com

Model manner
Gurleen Grewal, Miss India Diva 2013 who will participate in the Miss International in Tokyo soon, says she feels more ‘responsible’ after having bagged the title…
Manpriya Singh

She shuttles from being a little girl in a candy shop to playing the picture of perfection expected of a beauty title-holder. A crown brings along a sea of transformation; apart from the applauding audience, the tiara and a world full of opportunities. What invites the broadest smile, followed by a giggle is the mention of homecoming. "I have been meeting people, enjoying the comfort of my own place and people; shopping from the places I am familiar with. I am in my own city and it's my comfort zone," Gurleen Grewal, 21, Miss India Diva 2013, first runner-up, can't have enough of the five days off while in Chandigarh. She adds, "My father is in the Army and he is currently posted in Srinagar; he has also come home to spend time with me."

The lady is back on her turf and is happy to be the girl again. "From a little college girl, I feel quite grown up with a lot of responsibility on my shoulders." More than the crown, places firmly on her head, what lies heavy is the responsibility of representing the country. "I'll be going for Miss International on December 17 to be held in Tokyo. Right now that's all I can think of."

Title shot

It's a somewhat similar story with the crown she wears, having to explain the rechristened title. The Miss India that we've hitherto known now introduces herself as Miss India Diva. "I look at it positively. We'll always be the first set of divas. Even though we have to do a lot of explaining to laymen, people in the industry give us just as much importance."

First take

What might come across as a rehearsed speech is in fact a true story. The crown just happened. "In India, people always have this tendency to ask you to try for modelling if you have the height and other statistics. I filled up the form and it didn't dawn till I was shortlisted in the final stages," shares the B.Com pass-out from SD College, who "would have been in the banking sector otherwise."

Training time

It's a long journey before she gets to don the international beauty title. "Fortunately, I don't need to lose any more weight. I just need to tone myself."

Act right

Just in case the crown comes along, "I'll be working with the pageant committee for a year." Otherwise, there's always the fall-back option of B-town. "I'm always asked this question; acting is not a joke. I can't just go and stand in front of the camera. I can't even think right now."

manpriya@tribunemail.com

In the spotlight

Big step: Hussain

Television actor Hussain is getting a lot of buzz in Delhi NCR these days because of his show Zangoora played at the Kingdom of Dreams resort in Gurgaon. He also made his film debut recently in Shree. He talks about family, shows, travels, and more.

Family support

I lost my father when I was very young. I am the youngest among my three siblings. My elder brother, who is a director of TV shows, has been like a father figure to me. He has been my guide and mentor throughout my life.

Acting bug

As a college student, I was pretty chilled out and laidback with no concrete plans for my future. However, my brother pushed me into taking life more seriously. I started going for auditions and got my first break in the TV show Aashirwad. Then, I got hooked onto acting. I started doing the right kind of work, met the right people and worked on discovering my acting skills.

Favourite role

Till date, my best stint on TV has to be Krishna Arjun. I played the role of a detective solving a variety of cases across Mumbai. As a child, I always loved such characters. The stunts and action sequences made the show a truly challenging one.

Training ground

Performing on stage is very different from acting in films or TV. I took on this opportunity because it was a totally new thing for me. I am glad for the support I got from theatre artistes. Being a part of such a huge musical also involves physical training, which is no less than military training. After a day's performance, we get so tired that we can sleep literally anywhere. Stage is a huge platform as it allows you to explore, expand and think laterally.

Travel diaries

My life is not busy as it used to be earlier when I was a television actor full-time. I am doing the musical only on weekends. My wife Tina and I take three to four holidays in a year. We often go to Europe and Australia. Some time back, I completed my scuba-diving training in Phuket. I am a certified diver now! I am a nature lover, and New Zealand is one of my favourite places. I love the hills, beaches and the small scenic villages over there.

Happy at last!

Om Puri, who is currently shooting with the awesome Helen Mirren in the French town of Albi for Swedish director Lasse Hallstrom's 100 Foot Journey, is happy being so far away from all the domestic stress that his life has gotten into.

He says, "I am so happy to be here in Albi. It's so peaceful and beautiful. We started shooting earlier last week. I'm very proud of whatever we've shot so far. I saw the rushes. I think my country will be proud of me when this film is released," says Om, and adds, "That at my age I get such pivotal roles in international projects proves I must have done something right."

Om is simply bowled over by his co-star and Oscar-winning actress Helen Mirren. He adds, "I have rented my own apartment here in Albi where I do my own cooking. When Helen Mirren arrived for shooting I invited her home for dinner along with the rest of the crew. I cooked an Indian meal for them. When she arrived I fell on my knees in front of her and confessed I was a fan. Helen laughed made me stand up, hugged me and said she also admired my work."

Om is impressed by Mirren's generous spirit. "She is such a great actress and so devoid of any vanity. I think I am going to have a great time shooting with her. I am not even thinking about all the ugliness that I left behind at home. The one saving grace of my troubled life is that when I start to work I forget all my problems. For now I've stopped brooding over the suffering and malicious attacks back home," he signs off.

Sonam to get her own space

Sonam Kapoor has finally zeroed on a big house for herself. After considering various options, she has put an end to her month long hunt.

For quite a long time Sonam was wishing for a place of her own. However, she has no intention to leave her parent's house and relocate to a new apartment.

A source said, "Sonam was looking for a spacious apartment where she can meet the filmmakers, go through the scripts and rehearse for her roles. Also, it can easily double up as a venue for parties and events. The apartment is huge and meets her needs."

The actress has been riding high post the success of Raanjhana and Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. She has been appreciated for her role in both the movies. After her back-to-back success she has been getting a lot of scripts. She needed her space to go through them alone.

The source added: "Sonam has finalised the property and the deal is in its closing stages. Her father, Anil, is glad that she has been able to buy a property on her own. Sonam will also oversee the interior decoration of the house."

the ‘in’ side
Seat of creativity
Sukhmani

If you think a chair upholstered in a beautiful fabric looks stunning, think what two different fabrics can do to that chair! Yes, they can make it look even more gorgeous. This trick is usually used by designers to add a subtle surprise and a visual punch to an otherwise boring room; be it the bedroom, living room, dining room or even the office. The back of a chair is a great place to use a more delicate, expensive, or ornate fabric that might not be ideal for the seat.

• Unless you are a seasoned designer, limit yourself to only two types of fabrics or else you will end up creating confusion.
• You must create a high degree of contrast or else if everything blends in too well, you won't achieve the desired look. For this you must vary the scale of the pattern and colour.
• You can mix and match interesting fabrics for sofa, chairs, ottomans, drapes, cushions and pillows to create a personal statement. Mixing floral and stripes is the popular way of coordinating upholstery fabric but you can use other combinations as per your choice.
• Interiors is all about small details, make sure you tie up the whole look by using one of the patterns or colour from the chair fabric and use it elsewhere in the room.
• Add drama. Place your twin patterned chairs against a bold coloured or wall papered accent wall and watch the room come alive.
• You may like to use the colour wheel to efficiently coordinate colours. Red and green directly across each other on the wheel are complementary colours so you can use fabrics with these colours. Yellows and greens also go well with each other. Pay attention to the wall colour too. It can set the colour theme as a bright focal point or a neutral backdrop where you can use brighter or richer colour fabrics. Don't forget to take into consideration the colours of the carpet and flooring while mixing and matching upholstery fabric.

it’s rocking
The Ball gets rolling
Amarjot Kaur

Miley Cyrus

Recorded by American singer Miley Cyrus for her up and coming fourth studio album, Bangerz, Wrecking Ball is a single that got her the number one spot on the billboard top 20 for the first time. Released as a digital download, Wrecking Ball was written by Lukasz Gottwald, Maureen Anne McDonald, Stephan Moccio, Sacha Skarbek and Henry Russell Walter and produced by Dr Luke and Henry Russell Walter under the production name, Cirkut.

That Miley went topless in the video and grabbed many eyeballs is not just the only reason for the song's success, as the city folks give credit to her sensibilities, they also speak volumes about how the song makes and edge above the rest, courtesy its content and presentation.

Different from the rest

I love the song. It is such a departure from the usual 'happy go lucky content' that was a staple for Miley's song. She seems to have matured and that is perhaps the reason why it works with the audience.

Niharika Sachdeva, student

Force and drama

This song has so much of drama and character to it and that makes it score an edge above the rest. I like the way Miley looks in the film too. There is a lot of force in the song.

Deepika Verma, student

A good change

The song reminds me of the 80s and Miley has come out in a very bold way and I quiet fancy her new avatar. It's a refreshing change of pace, one that might silence her detractors or at least serve notice that she's still capable of wowing us with her voice.

Mrinal Gupta, student

— As told to Amarjot Kaur

Celebration time

Heritage Walk, 3D installations, photography competitions, musical night—World Tourism Week is in Chandigarh and CITCO is celebrating the week on a grand scale.

The theme this year is Tourism & Water-Protecting our common future. Starting September 26, there would be 3D installations on the theme at Sukhna Lake. One can explore the city as 'hop on hop off' bus offers free rides on September 27 and student volunteers serve as guide.

There would be plethora of competitions, including Coffee Races. "This unique event will be on September 28 at the Chandigarh Institute of Hotel Managemnet-42 from 3 pm. Students from different colleges will participate at CIHM-42," says T K Razdan, principal, CIHM.

On September 29, there will Punjabi Musical Nite at Beant Singh Memorial-42, and international dances at Sukhna Lake. The highlight -Kavita Krishnamurthy will be singing live for city folks at Plaza -17 on September 27.

Photography competition, quizzes, food discounts and more, CITCO is all geared up to celebrate the week. — TNS

Over a cup of coffee
Mona

Chef Vineet cooks up delicacies for the coffee festival

Varied flavours of coffee with sumptuous snacks round the clock! Well, Le Café is on with International Coffee Festival and has brought lip smacking offers.

On at Hotel ShivalikView, this Coffee Festival has culled various flavours right from Chennai to Ireland. If you want to play safe, you can opt for latte or cappuccino; if you want to savour something new, Irish Coffee will give a whisky flavour (non -alcoholic). Chennai Espresso looks a harmless, but a sip reveals its spicy-salty flavour. Kale Channe ki Cappuccino, Godfather Espresso, Mocha Chinni, master chef Vineet Chopra has prepared flavours with a twist.

"Mine is an effort to have something for everyone, so right from a kid to the elderly, we have something for you." One can take succour in the special cold coffee too!

And, that's not all… there are a variety of snacks to go with. There is live Mumbai vada pao corner, chocolate fruity pizza, and pindi chana wrap to name a few. Chocolate pizza with fresh fruit toppings is a must try. Live piano performance takes care of your entertainment for the evening.

Pricing is mouth watering too - students can show their card and avail 25 per cent discount straightaway. And combo meals with coffee, snack and dessert start at Rs 175.

On from Friday evening, this festival concludes on World Coffee Day on September 29. It's on 24X7 at Le Café!

mona@tribunemail.com

star track
Public demand for Fukrey

Fukrey released a few months ago and the film is set in Delhi. The film has re-released in Delhi at a multiplex due to public demand.


A poster of Fukrey

Collection time

Phata Poster Nikla Hero has collected Rs 20 crore over the weekend and The Lunchbox has collected around Rs 7 crore over the weekend. The numbers for Grand Masti continue to be impressive.

Two much of action!

The Prabhudeva-Ajay Devgn movie, which is starring Yaami Gautam as well, has been titled Action-Jackson because Ajay Devgn is the king of action and Prabhudeva is India's Michael Jackson who is the king of dance.
dynamic duo: Ajay Devgn & Prabhudeva

No lock-lips for Anushka

For some time there has been the buzz that Anushka Sharma will be locking lips with Aamir Khan in the movie Peekay.

back basics: Anushka Sharma

But Anushka vehemently denied the buzz and said, "This is not true! I heard these rumours and found it too funny. It's not like we have sat down watching every kissing scene in the film just to break a record. There is a lot of credibility to look forward to in a Raj Kumar Hirani film other than a kissing scene. There is no truth to such rumours and it's just all gossip."

Well, given the way kissing has come of age in Bollywood movies, we certainly think the entire controversy was unwarranted.

Meanwhile, Anushka was spotted flaunting her sexy back at Nivea's 'Flaunt Your Back' campaign last weekend.

Dressed in shimmering blue backless evening gown, the pretty lass not just displayed her slender back but also gave a sneak peek of her oh-so-perfect legs that send the temperatures soaring.

But when asked if she thinks she has the sexiest back in Bollywood, Anushka smartly averted the question. Well, we guess she didn't want to say her own name!

Honesty pays

Hrithik Roshan has given the credit of the fabulous response to the promo of Krrish 3 to Priyanka Chopra because she saw the first cut and told him that she did not like it. So he re-cut the trailer at the last minute and the results are for everyone to see!

take one: Hrithik Roshan

Illeana’s glam shot

Ileana D'cruz got many offers post Barfi! for similar serious and de-glam roles but she refused them all. She was happy that she got a light and glamourous role in Phata Poster Nikla Hero and she had fun shooting the movie.

Anurag signs off

Anurag Kashyap has gone off Twitter after venting his anger and disappointment as The Lunchbox was not chosen an India's entry to the Oscars. He has deleted his account now and this has come as a surprise to many.
dejected dircetor: Anurag Kashyap

Fault finding

Kalki Koechlin and VJ Juhi Pandey have made a rape satire video which is getting international attention for the right reasons. The video is called It's Your Fault and can be seen on YouTube.
On the spot: Kalki Koechlin

chatter box
All praise for Mahabharat

A still from Mahabharat

Just a week into its launch, Star Plus' magnum opus Mahabharat has become the talk of town, especially with great reviews coming in from all corners of the country. Here's what our television stars have to say about the epic that is gaining great momentum.

Saraswatichandra's Gautam Rode said, "I am a keen follower of Mahabharat and trying to catch up on the show. I like the way Bheeshma's character, played by Arav, has been etched out. Also Puneetji's look as Parshuram is godly. His fight is against injustice at a larger societal level. There is a lot to learn from him and I strongly relate to the righteousness and goodness of his character." Deepika aka Sandhya from Diya Aur Baati Hum said, "A lot of people may view Satyawati differently, but to me she signifies the strength of a woman and mother. Her striking personality and the fight to ensure her children get their rights is beautifully shown."

Nakul Mehta aka Aditya of Pyaar Ka Dard Hain Meetha Meetha Pyaara Pyaara shared his take, "I have loved whatever I have seen so far of Mahabharat and the way it's presented. The dialogue writing is commendable; especially the seekh you get from Krishna is a lesson to remember for all." Disha Parmar aka Pankhuri of Pyaar Ka Dard Hain Meetha Meetha Pyaara Pyaara added, "Every character of Mahabharat has a strong motive and story attached to it. If you follow it closely you will see its relevance and apply it in our day to day life." — HRM

Getting back

Lots is being reshuffled on Colors. Due to Bigg Boss 7, Jay Soni’s show Sanskaar — Dharohar Apnon Ki ended, but now it is set to return with season two. It will replace Mrs Pammi Pyarelal from October 7. Life Ok’s Kaisa Yeh Ishq Hai...Ajab Sa Risk Hai might also return with a second season after five weeks.

SHOW TIME: Kaisa Yeh Ishq Hai...Ajab Sa Risk Hai

The big leap

Popular daily soap on Sony Television, Bade Achhe Lagte Hain, recently witnessed the much-awaited generation leap on it. With the leap the face of Pihu has also changed from the cute adorable Amrita Mukherjee to Parvarish-fame Aanchal Munchal and now Fenil Umrigar. The young Pihu, Amrita Mukherjee, had won the hearts of millions of viewers and the new Pihu (Fenil Umrigar) is also set to do the same.

Amrita had come on the sets of Bade Aache Lagtey Hai to shoot for a flashback sequence with Ram Kapoor. After her scene got over, she met Fenil Umrigar and they bonded like sisters. Said Fenil, “Amrita had come on the set and I was awe-struck by her innocence. She just keeps talking and you can’t stop her. We had so much fun together.”
                                                                                         good going: Pihu

A century of laughter!

Poetic justice: Waah Waah Kya Baat Hai

Popular show Waah Waah Kya Baat Hai has successfully completed 100 episodes. To celebrate the occasion, producer Asit Kumarr Modi invited Sunil Pal and Sab TV head Anuj Kapoor on the show. A huge cake was cut by Sunil Pal, Anuj Kapoor, Neha Mehta, Asit Kumarr Modi and Shailesh Lodha, among others. With the theme of naya-purana, this episode had young and senior poets having an entertaining and humorous debate. The episode will be telecast on October 5-6 at 9 pm. Anchored by Shailesh Lodha and Neha K. Mehta, Waah Waah Kyaa Baat Hai is a humorous hourly weekend show. The concept of the show is loosely based on the old tradition of Haasya Kavi Sammelan.

Produced under the banner of ‘Neela Telefilms’ by Asit Kumarr Modi, the programme sees many established poets tickling the funny bone of the viewers. Every week there is a theme such as women, children, relationship or marriage on which participating poets base their creations.

Another interesting segment is Chhupa Rustom where unknown poets get to showcase their talents. The highlight of the show is the section that provides a platform to emerging poets called Aam aadmi ki kavitayein. “Today there is no platform to promote lyricists and poets. Writing and poetry are not given due importance. Through this show we are trying to revive the interest in poetry, particularly in hasya kavita,” said the producer Asit Kumarr Modi. Their other serial Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah has already completed more than 1,000 episodes.

Top shot

Recently, three new shows were launched but it was Gautami Kapoor’s sensitive portrayal in Khelti Hai Zindagi Aankh Micholi that got good ratings. It garnered 2,546 TVT. Life Ok’s Ek Boond Ishq got 1,883 TVT while the Sunday show Buddha settled at 1,450 TVT.
                                   Flying high: Khelti Hai Zindagi Aankh Micholi

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Shopkeepers will find the day quite hectic. Actors will feel very positive and optimistic. An intense discussion with your partner early on can play on your mind all day long.
Tarot message: Well-wishers who will give you sound advice.
Lucky colour: Pink.
Magic number: 30

TAURUS: Do not worry; discuss your plans with loved ones. In the evening children will be a source of happiness and joy. A partnership is in the pipeline and looks set for success. This is a favourable day for finances.
Tarot message: Take limited risks.
Lucky colour: Green.
Magic number: 57

GEMINI: A property deal gets concluded. Domestic issues come up for urgent consideration. Have no worries; your work is well under control. Youngsters will have differences with their parents.
Tarot message: Health of elderly member at home will need care.
Lucky colour: Red.
Magic number: 54

CANCER: Romantic life takes upswing. It is a good day to try your luck in speculative deals. Those employed will be burdened with additional responsibility without incentive.
Tarot message: Leave things open-ended for best results.
Lucky colour: Peach.
Magic number: 33

LEO: Pay heed to wise counsel. Do not intervene in the dispute of others. Those looking for a job will receive a suitable offer. Read the signs and avoid playing the doormat.
Tarot message: Be creative to retain grip over your business.
Lucky colour: Red.
Magic number: 59

VIRGO: Your card "The Chariot" brings a busy day ahead. Please keep a balance between work and rest. You should be careful about your own health and well-being of your parents.
Tarot message: Everything will get sorted out in time.
Lucky colour: Saffron.
Magic number: 47

LIBRA: A hidden relationship proves a headache. Indecision can be crippling at the moment. Set aside time to get in touch with your thoughts and feelings, even if it is just half an hour.
Tarot message: You will get the help you need if you ask for it.
Lucky colour: Black.
Magic number: 37

SCORPIO: Today most of your time and attention should be centered on your personal life. Arguments with your spouse can become serious, so avoid them. Avoid speculation.
Tarot message: Do not overspend just to impress others.
Lucky colour: Golden.
Magic number: 25

SAGITTARIUS: A real estate deal should be left alone for the time being. Today you will find new opportunities opening up for you. Maintain a low profile in a party.
Tarot message: Over-optimism can lead to mistakes.
Lucky colour: Royal Blue
Magic number: 27

CAPRICORN: Your personal plans will meet with some stiff opposition. Your reputation can be on the line. Act impartially and avoid the pitfalls of guilt.
Tarot message: You can stabilise your financial situation if you make investments in property.
Lucky colour: Purple.
Magic number: 63

AQUARIUS: Money-wise the day is slow. Friends can lose your confidence. Let your energy be turned towards artistic work. Your beloved will be in a lively mood. Women: avoid impulse buying.
Tarot message: Avoid gossip session at the workplace.
Lucky colour: Silver.
Magic number: 26

PISCES: Go all out to improve your position at work. Students: new love relations can be formed on the campus. If you are relaxing at home, visit a local market and enjoy the sights.
Tarot message: This is not a bad time to open up new doors.
Lucky colour: Brown.
Magic number: 54

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is September 26...

Your birth on the 26th day of this month improves your life path by increasing your capability to function and succeed in the business world. On your birthday, an experienced person will have some valuable advice for you. Thanks to the 2 and 6 energies combining in this date. There is a marked increase in your organisational, managerial and administrative abilities. You are efficient and handle money very well. Job opportunities, salary increment and promotions are in store. Big investments will bring good profits.

Positive colours: Hot-pink, Blue.

Select days: Saturday, Thursday.

Favourable numbers: 2, 4, 8.

Gems recommended: Blue Sapphire.

Charity on birthday: Donate black pulses, oil, sweet edible items and steel utensils to any school or religious place.

You share your birthday with Suyash 'Chunky' Pandey (September 26, 1962), who has appeared in over 55 movies in a career that has spanned two decades. He has been nominated once for the best supporting actor role for Tezaab. Chunky has also worked in Bangladeshi cinema. He will continue to entertain for a long time to come.