With a special design!
From a sleepy village in Arunachal Pradesh, fashion designer Jenjum Gadi has moved on to opening a flagship store in Delhi. The element of surprise in his creations hardly goes unnoticed…

Ashima Batish

Jenjum Gadi
creative line: Jenjum Gadi

In the second year of graduation, Jenjum Gadi dropped out of college without informing his parents. He used the fee amount that his father sent him to seek admission in a fashion institute. Not that he had a thing for fashion then; he couldn't have sat idle, so fashion designing happened by fluke. Now after almost ten years, Jenjum thinks that fluke defined his destiny and he couldn't have become anything but a fashion designer. He vividly remembers his days of struggle, when he hardly had money to purchase fabric or to spare on threads and embellishments. But in his recalling of the past, there is no regret, no pain of having gone through so much, "I have come a long way from a non-descript village, which was ten hours from Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, to now, where I own a designer store in Delhi. The present is important, past is a closed chapter," says Jenjum, who recently opened his flagship store in Delhi.

Son of a farmer mother and a small-time politician, Jenjum says that he picked up the nuances of fashion unconsciously from the way people dressed up in his state. "They knew a hundred ways to drape a piece of garment around their body. Beads were used to embellish plain fabric, which looked so beautiful." But what he studied in fashion also affected his design sensibilities, which helped him mainstream the typical patterns and motifs of Arunachal Pradesh.

When he started his journey in the world of fashion, he was lucky to be mentored by Rohit Bal, who, Jenjum says, gave his career a direction. "I trained under him. It's good to have support from an established name in the industry. It adds to the confidence and zeal to work better." As for his creations, he likes to do diffusion line and women-wear. "If you have to excel in the Indian market, you have to design for women. Men's creation can be a part of the menu but not in entirety." He also hopes to begin with couture wear soon.

It is only recently that the North-East has started getting its due for fashion. Designers like Atsu Sekhose and Jenjum Gadi are doing their bit, plus there are fashion shows backed by the government of states. Jenjum is happy about the fashion trajectory, "We have always been very fashionable but we kept our style to ourselves, didn't share it with people outside the seven states." He appreciates the fact that people have started making a living out of fashion now. Jenjum hopes to become an example for people from his state who wish to enter the fashion industry.

The collection he will showcase at the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week, he hopes, will further the cause. "I will be doing prints. Eighty percent of the collection will be in black and white; the rest pop colours." In all these years of fashion weeks, he has made sure not to define his signature style, "As the surprise element goes missing." And that's what he precisely likes to do — surprise.

ashima@tribunemail.com

Patiala connection
Designer Rupam K Grewal highlights the upcoming trends for the wedding season and the innovations that can make them all the more wonderful…
Manpriya Singh

Rupam K Grewal (L)
RIGHT CUT: Rupam K Grewal (L)

It's an endeavour to pull the regal Patiala salwar from the eulogised space it enjoys as family heirloom and see it mingling with the crowds. Designer Rupam K Grewal wants to put the spotlight on the garment like never before. The label, Jaamawar Minx, her brainchild, came out of the inspiration to give a twist to the Patiala salwar, among other things.

"Our USP is the salwar that doesn't have the bulk of a Patiala salwar but still has the same drape. Generally, it's only the dupatta or kameez that's worked upon. Our salwars have cutwork and embroidery and are paid attention to like any other garment," shares the Pathankot-based designer, while in Chandigarh to showcase the upcoming wedding collection.

The season in which we carry forward the neons from summer, if nothing else; she shares, "You'll definitely see brides sport neon colours, especially neon pink and green. Not to say that solid greens and reds will give way, but there will definitely be a touch of neon." She adds, "Then there's also orange and turquoise to watch out for. As for work, gotta patti will definitely be in. The stones and crystals are almost on their way out."

Lots of colour with a touch of neon is how she'd like to present the shade card for the bridal season. The collection comprises fifteen to twenty garments. "For the wedding day, one can opt for a ghagra with a lot of flair; which has much richer work like Dabka and Zardosi.

Designer touch

Engagement, reception, sangeet, mehendi, cocktails; with weddings becoming as expensive as elaborate, there's much to look after; no wonder Pret hasn't caught her fancy! "I do very little of that. Some formal kurtis and that's about it. All my designs are a reflection of me, when I am not attending a traditional function, wedding or event I am mostly only in shirt and trousers. So I never thought of coming out with a collection," shares the designer for whom it started only four years ago.

"I did my engineering and was married into a family of educationists. Running a boarding school didn't leave much time till a niece's wedding happened in Canada." I did her entire trousseau, followed by a fluke exhibition in Toronto. She laughs, "The second day of the exhibition and my collection was sold out. I jumped headlong into; it is three stores and counting." Coming up is yet another collection comprising lots of velvets and French lace; Chantilly. "I'll be teaming up the French lace dupattas with a Patiala Salwar." Why not? It is, once again, the roots taking centrestage.

manpriya@tribunemail.com

Jocular Javed
With the best of his punch-lines, Javed Jaffrey is making the show Ninja Warriors rock …
Ashima Batish

Javed Jaffrey
COMIC VEIN: Javed Jaffrey

Takeshi's Castle might have been shot in Japan, but it enjoyed a huge viewership in India as well. While some credit goes to the amusing stunts that commoners had to perform, Javed Jaffrey induced more fun into the show. His wacky jokes, witty comments and funny commentary in Hindi made it a show for Indian audience as well.

On the lines of Takeshi's Castle, Javed is now being seen and heard in the show Ninja Warriors. "The only difference is in terms of participants, who are trained gymnasts." He plans to add humour to the show the way he did with Takeshi's Castle. "This is a bigger challenge because people in the show are achievers. It is an otherwise serious and only my commentary will spice it up."

He hopes that his punch-lines will be as popular in Ninja Warriors as they were in Takeshi's Castle. "I do have a script ready before I begin with the job, but 50 per cent of what I say in an episode is also instant comedy." He says that situations are so funny in the show that every time he watches them, he comes up with new gags and punches. "That proves how entertaining the show is."

Takeshi's Castle and Javed Jaffery's compering in it was so popular that probably it inspired Shah Rukh Khan to try his hand at the same job in Indian Adaptation of Wipe Out. "But there was a huge difference between the two shows. In Takeshi's Castle people tried water stunts just to have fun; in SRK's show contestants wanted to win it. The focus was on who's doing well and not on the funny moments of the show, "says Jaffrey.

The show is on air and is garnering high TRPs. Any show that Javed has been a part of had scored well with numbers. His Boogie Woogie was the first dance reality show on Indian television and is still remembered for the quality of talent it brought on the stage. "People wish to know if we will bounce back with the next season. We might be just in the process of doing that very soon." He is in favour of all the reality shows bringing up talent from all corners of India. "More the merrier; these shows give an opportunity to even small-town artists to showcase and hone their talent. It's a platform nobody can afford to criticise."

ashima@tribunemail.com

Loving it!
Television actor Pooja Gaur says she is in ‘love with love’. We catch up for more…
Manpriya Singh

Pooja Gaur
Telly tale: Pooja Gaur

With a music channel, a drama show and a title role already behind her, Pooja Gaur has perhaps been through all the tubes of television. Better known as Pratigya for her character in Mann Kee Awaaz Pratigya, she wants to break free from the identity that a title role bestows and at the same time get into another one.

"I wish I had got to play the character of Shanti from the classic television serial Shanti or was a part of the serial. It was a brilliant drama," she shares in a telephonic conversation regarding her stint in the drama Yeh hai Aashiqui, aired on Bindass.

"It's a very different kind of show. It focuses on the unusual love stories and since I am in love with love, I am very excited to be a part of the show." At times, it's about being content with a few but meaty roles while sometimes the content itself matters. "It's a very small part of a fresher that I am playing in the show."

Classic thought
A classic once made, perhaps, cannot be repeated for the magic can seldom be recreated. "I think serials like Hum Log, Nukkad and Shanti you can never remake. I doubt if I ever would like to be a part of their remakes or sequels. There's a reason why they are called classics and should not be touched upon." Is anybody listening?

The mention of fresher makes her draw a parallel with some real-life anecdotes. "I have been a fresher once and that too in the entertainment industry. That way, the role was very similar to what I have been through." She adds, "A fresher is a fresher and experiences similar emotions as well as hurdles whether it is in television or films."

Her television career started with Kitni Mohabbat Hai and currently continues with The Serial on Channel V. Along the way, a cameo was what was left. Bollywood remains on the wish-list of any television artiste. The small screen actors have hardly received their due on the silver screen. "That's not true anymore. You look at Yami Gautam; she's made an excellent film debut with Vicky Donor. There are people from television who have gone beyond the secondary roles." She adds, "I don't mind playing a second female lead provided it helps me expand my horizons."

Coming up is a drama that "does not fall into the typical 'saas bahu' genre." She adds, "It's a very exciting show. I'm very happy to be a part of it. It'll be very different, but I can speak about it only once things are finalised."

manpriya@tribunemail.com

TRENDSETTER
Cool & candid

Amol Gakhal
style file: Amol Gakhal Photo: S Chandan

There is something very intriguing about people who are not pretentious. And most of the times, their sense of originality validates a very deep level of comfort, which often translates into their style statement. Amol Gakhal, 22, is a master’s student at the DAV College, Sector 10 and though he claims to be an average college going Chandigarh lad, one can trace his witty sense of humour that is masked by his evident high spirits. Here’s a self-proclaimed Narcissist’s confessions about fashion, style and a lot more...

Describe your sense of style…

I tend to carry off the 'semi-casual' look quite elaborately, though I still feel that I have not yet discovered a particular sense of style that describes me in all the glory (laughs). I guess my sense of style is very sharp and edgy. “Oh and it keeps the girls from fainting too!” he quips.

Latest addition in the wardrobe…

Leather moccasin's from Zara.

Brand freak or street smart?

Both. Smart with a flair. Touche'!

Choose one: sporty, glamorous or chic?

Chic for sure.

Your style icon…

David Beckham, because he is a legend. Besides, he's got Posh to dress him up. What a win-win situation for him (clicks his tongue)!

Who’s the worst dressed celebrity around and why?

It’s Govinda, (waits for a second). No, well honestly, it would be Micheal Jackson because this guy was a pop-legend living with 50 kids on an amusement park, wearing frilly-suede leather jackets. He dressed on some crazy pills it seems!

One fashion trend you don’t understand…

Suspenders! It started off as an accessory that could be used in lieu of a belt. But now, you get them as a fashion trend. I think I could fit in a pair of pants quite fine without them, thank you!

Your take on accessories…

If it works in you're favour, why not. But, I personally leave the clunky metal for the ladies. Next thing you know is a boy with diamond ear studs. How did that even happen?

One thing that boosts your confidence…

A mirror. I've never known why, but somehow seeing eye to eye with a mirror image of myself picks me up from the dumps. An eye for eye makes a man never go shy.

You would love to be dressed up by…

Giorgio Armani, if he's free!

As told to Amarjot Kaur

Doc Talk
A light affair
Dr Vikas Sharma

Skin lightening refers to the practice of using chemical substances or procedures in an attempt to lighten the skin tone or provide an even skin complexion by lessening the concentration of melanin. Several chemicals have been shown to be effective in skin whitening, while some have proved to be toxic or have questionable safety profiles, adding to the controversy surrounding their use.

The skin whitening treatment can help lighten a tan, fade scars, and alleviate dark patches on the skin and is done for specific hyper-pigmented disorders.

Topical skin lightening creams and lotions often contain chemical agents such as :

  • Hydroquinone
  • Azelaic acid
  • Kojic acid

There is also a small amount of research showing that oral supplements of pomegranate extract , pine bark extract and ellagic acid can inhibit melanin production. Dermatological procedures that are used for skin lightening in selective indications only include chemical peels, microdermabrasion and lasers. There are a lot of skin whitening products available in the market and one should not have to rush on things and more importantly not to be deceived with promising results claimed in advertisements and commercials.

Determining the cause of the hyperpigmentation is important in selecting the best approach for treatment so getting a proper diagnosis of the pigmentation disorder by a dermatologist before undergoing such skin lightening methods is of paramount importance. The causes of hyperpigmentation may include genetic, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, drugs, photosensitizing agents, ultraviolet light.

Word of caution

All the above mentioned skin lightening agents and procedures can be harmful if not done under a supervision of specialist dermatologist. They can cause:

  • Permanent skin bleaching
  • Thinning of skin
  • Uneven colour loss, leading to a blotchy appearance
  • Redness
  • Intense irritation
  • Contact dermatitis
  • Long term use of skin whiteners can lead to pigmentation increasing to the joints of the fingers, toes, buttocks and ears.

(Dr Sharma is a dermatologist)

Divine call

She proudly blends spirituality with jazz and throws in words like progressive rock, a bit of rap and all the contemporary commercial genres of music. Chandihgarh-based musician Sash, 39, comes out with a self-titled album, as different as the musical influences she reflects. Born in Kolkata, brought up in Delhi and currently based in the city, she shares, "I am a Ph D in Hindustani classical music and being a singer, I wanted to do something different. I couldn't relate to the music and lyrics prevalent in the market." While the cover of the album does not seem to go with the concept, but probably, that was an intended effort.

"Anybody can relate to the genres I have touched upon in my album. It's a way of praying and worshipping God. The idea was to inspire people to recognise their creator while at the same time not come out with a boring spiritual album." She adds, "I'm from today's generation and can relate to this kind of music." Out of the total six tracks in the album, "Three of the songs have been written and composed by me."

Coming up is yet another endeavour on similar lines. "I'll be working on some more albums but that will again be a spiritual music in a contemporary packaging," shares the Sangeet Ratna awardee in Togore's works. "The proceeds of the album will go towards leprosy patients, orphans and widows through the NGOs I run," chips in Dr James Chacko, Ph.D, founder and lead pastor, while accompanying her.

— Manpriya Singh

Jewel in the crown
Gurvinder Singh

Amrita Rao on the ramp
glam quotient: Amrita Rao on the ramp Photo: Himanshu Mahajan

"It feels good to come to Punjab and seeing so many pretty faces," said Amrita Rao, who was showstopper for Rose Creations, as Blenders Pride Punjab International Fashion Week started amid glam, glitter and colour.

She has seen Punjab only in Yashraj movies and other Bollywood films and she loves Punjabi culture, food and the attire here. Apart from Singh Saab the Great promotion, she is reading scripts and hopes that coming to Punjab would augur well for her debut in Punjabi movies. She would like to do Punjabi cinema if good scripts come her way, she says.

For the evening, sporting scintillating jewellery in traditional and contemporary designs, models sashayed down the ramp in style. The men's traditional wear had a touch of tradition from uniquely designed variations of kurta pyjamas, salwar kameez etc. The collections of sarees, to wedding collections, there were many moments of triumph.

star track
Rise of the Superhero

Hrithik Roshan Actor Hrithik Roshan, who will be seen as a superhero in his filmmaker father's movie Krrish 3, says his dad is his superhero.

Hrithik also credited his father with popularising the superhero genre in Bollywood with the Krrish franchise, which started with Koi Mil Gaya.

"I am thankful to my dad. If he didn't exist, there would have been no superhero genre in Indian cinema. He has broken all the barriers and has made it possible. This is because of the power of his conviction. For me, my father is my superhero, "Hrithik told at the launch of Krrish 3 merchandise.

Asked if his own sons look up to him as their superhero, Hrithik said: "I always hope they see me as superhero. Being a father is the biggest chance and opportunity to be a superhero in your life."

Krrish 3, releasing in November, also features Vivek Oberoi, Priyanka Chopra and Kangana Ranaut. — IANS

Big launch: Hrithik Roshan

New role
Deepika Padukone makes her debut as fashion designer

Deepika Padukone Actress Deepika Padukone has made her debut as a fashion designer with Van Heusen Woman's 'Limited Edition' collection, which she has co-created.

The 27-year-old, who is known for her minimal yet classic style, has pitched in ideas for the collection which is pegged around 'Old Hollywood' glamour where classic meets contemporary.

The palate of this co-created line features monochromatic shades for the uber chic, dusty rose pinks and cobalt blue.

"We'll I'm hardly a designer. I think I am someone who has ideas but I'm not very good at executing. But I'm very open to seeing new things and sharing my ideas and then of course I need people to help me put it all together," Deepika said in a statement.

"It's a little bit of what I already have and what I would like to see myself wearing. The collection is really about wearing your own personality. That's something I've always believed in. It's important to not forget who you are," she added. The campaign has been shot in Milan.

"We are absolutely delighted to co-create a line with Deepika Padukone exclusively for Van Heusen. These dresses are an ultimate combination of style, class, modernity and substance. Women fashion followers have been quite influenced by Deepika's overall charisma and this creation sparkles with her elegant style," said Vinay Bhopatkar, brand head, Van Heusen. — PTI
Creative line: Deepika Padukone

Change of course

Superstar Salman Khan, who brought mass entertainers back to life with films like Wanted, Ready and Dabangg, feels that this space might die soon as it is now being overdone. A new wave of action-masala entertainers was created by Salman and choreographer-turned-director Prabhu Deva with Wanted in 2009. The film earned over Rs 160 crore and changed things for the 47-year-old in the industry after a low phase.

Salman's Ready, Dabangg, Bodyguard, Ek Tha Tiger and Dabangg 2 made him one of the bankable stars in Bollywood.

"This space will die totally. I think this was a beautiful format where we had films like Wanted, Dabangg etc. Now everybody has overdone it so much that it might die away.

Salman KhanThese kinds of films are popular but the creativity is becoming less... It seems the same stuff is happening (every time in these films). I don't know which genre will click now," Salman told. "The whole thing where one person beating up 50 people flying around will remain as this is part of our cinema. But there is a reason why and how he is beating. Now, the way action is done will change," he added.

Salman has an interesting range of films in his kitty including Jai Ho, Kick, Sooraj Barjatya's next and Prabhu Deva's next.

"Jai Ho will be different kind of film altogether it has all the ingredients - drama, emotion etc. Kick is also a different film. Again, Sooraj asked me to do a film for them, he gave me the idea and I loved it. It was a great script I had not worked with him since long," he said. — PTI
different game: Salman Khan

'24 is an adaptation not a translation'

Filmmaker Abhinay Deo, who has directed films like Delhi Belly and Game, is now helming 24 episodes for the first season of the Indian version of international series 24. The director will take the movies only once the thriller starring Anil Kapoor concludes. We catch up with the director to talk the show and more…

How different is the Indian version from the American version of the show?

Obviously the format is the season and has a same season storyline but the apart from that, everything about the show is different. Those who have been following the American version will get to see totally different settings as political and geological factors are different. All the punch points of the show have been changed and replaced with the new ones. There's a lot of and Indian-ness in the show. It is an adaptation and not a translation. So you will get to see a lot new.

How was it working with a senior actor like Anil Kapoor?

It is just amazing. I think he is one of the most dedicated and hard-working actors in India today. He is an director's actor; you can mould him into anything. He was always there whenever I needed to have him on the sets. The character is pretty intense and sensitive but he has adapted it really well. He is just incredible in the show. It was a pleasure working with him.

Presently, mythological and family drama shows tend to rule the television. Do you think 24 will change that?

Just because something is working doesn't mean that rest wouldn't work. Audience is ready for both. So there is an audience for 24. I think it's just a matter of time that someone decided to make it now.

Do you follow any TV shows and which ones are your favourite?

I do not really follow Indian daily soaps. FRIENDS is my all-time favourite show. I also enjoy Game Of Thrones. My other favourite is Breaking Bad. I think it's a phenomenal show.

Will you be directing the second season as well?

It's absolutely up to the channel to take a call but I will be creatively heading the season as well. It also depends if my schedule is free. After 24, I'm supposed to start a feature film.

Can you tell us about your feature film?

I think it's too early to speak of them since I don't know which one will see the light.Abhinay Deo and Anil Kapoor I have three scripts at the moment and I am in the process of developing them all.

What genre are they?

One of the films which I am doing is a buddy film. Then the other is a children's film in which the protagonist is a kid. The third one is a love story.

right take: Abhinay Deo and Anil Kapoor

Priyanka Chopra Work is antidote for PC

Priyanka Chopra has moved in with her mom and also thrown herself into work post the death of her father a few moths ago. She does not like to talk about her father while her mother likes to talk about her husband. She spends much less time at home now that her father is gone.

Priyanka Chopra Dia Mirza

Dia does jasoosi

Dia Mirza and her producer beau Sahil Sangha were set to tie the knot this year but they have postponed their wedding plans because they have gone into the production of Bobby Jasoos starring Vidya Balan which will roll this year and release next year.

tied up: Dia Mirza

Nimrat gets busy

Nimrat Kaur of The Lunchbox fame loves watching shows like The Big Bang Theory and Ion television but she does not get the time anymore.

chatter box
Decent proposal

Mallika Sherawat Mallika Sherawat has got proposals from people from all walks of life, all strata of society and every possible age group. We have heard that the actress who is searching for her Prince Charming has got a proposal from a 63-year-old man Sudarshan from Hyderabad, who was her teacher too.

All set: Mallika Sherawat

No pants for Bobby Darling!

Love her or hate her, you can't ignore her. The one and only Bobby Darling, who has always been in the limelight for her eccentric ways, is now back in her inimitable style. Recently, Bobby Darling was spotted on the sets of Yeh Hai Aashiqui where the actor refused to wear pants for her role and insisted that she would only wear a skirt or leggings. The actor will be essaying the role of a manager to the lead actress, Mihika Varma, on the upcoming episode. Talking about this incident, Bobby Darling says, "That's true! It's about time I am referred to as a woman. In normal life also, I wear leggings, short skirts and short tops as I am more comfortable in them. When I was signed for this role in Yeh Hai Aashiqui, I was asked to be myself. But when the shoot started, I was asked to wear trousers, which I declined because asBobby Darling I am not comfortable in them. I told the production team — this is how I am! I like to dress up and put on make-up every day like any other girl."

Yeh Hai Aashiqui, the show that features real-life love stories that are different from the rest, will tell the tale of a dazzling young starlet and an upcoming actor who in spite of obstacles, never leave each other's side. The episode will feature well-known television actors like Rithvik Dhanjani, Mihika Varma and Pooja Gaur. — HRM
CLOTHING LINE: Bobby Darling

Happier times

Ekta Kapoor At a recent press conference for Jodha Akbar, producer Ekta Kapoor spoke about controversies that surround her. She said, "I have a controversial planet on my head; that's what Ajay sir (Ajay Devgn) too told me once. But in the last six months I have done everything in my power to avoid controversies." Perhaps she was referring to demands by certain sections to end the show Jodha Akbar or change the names of the main lead characters. Now that the show is doing well, things sure are looking up.
Ekta Kapoor

Grabbing a bite

Curiously looking around, smiling ear-to-ear, replying to every glance, judge and chef Vikas Khanna had this reaction when he saw Bharti on the set of Junior Masterchef Swaad Ke Ustaad. It was a laugher riot on the sets with Bharti visiting Junior Masterchef for her love —Vikas. Chef Vikas, on the other hand, was convinced that he would get bombarded with the flirtatious attention from comedienne and be the focal point of her antics.

Bharti, who is known for her comic timing, set the house on fire with her random punches at Vikas Khanna. Looking at this, even the contestants couldn't resist but tease them while they made casual conversations. Vikas was later taken aback when it revealed that she had observed a fast for him and would only break it once Chef Vikas and Bharti the contestants had cooked vrat ka khana for her. The drama didn't end at this; Bharti also insisted that she would only break the fast if her Vikku fed her. An embarrassed Vikas agreed to her request, but ended up getting a small bite on his finger from the naughty actress.

Everyone, including Vikas, was in splits on the set. Vikas affirmed the incident and said, "It was a huge surprise when I saw Bharti on the sets. She is hilarious and I can't even begin to describe the talent that she has. She really enjoyed the food and the contestants had a blast." Catch Bharti on Junior MasterChef Swaad ke Ustaad from Saturday to Sunday at 9.00 pm only on Star Plus!
Fun Times: Chef Vikas and Bharti

Big B’s Titanic pose

It was a dream come true for hot seat contestant Deepa Sharma as she got once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to romance Amitabh Bachchan. Deepa confessed her urge to pose with Big B in the same way as Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif did in the movie Singh is Kinng. When Big B asked her to show the pose, she requested him to join in. Both struck the romantic pose and also did the iconic pose from Titanic.

The little Mithunda

"I love being grandmaster except that dada doesn't get manhandled!" says Nihar Gite when asked how he felt about stepping into the shoes of Grandmaster Mithunda on Zee TV's Dance Ka Tashan. Since Mithunda couldn't make it for the shoot, so everyone expected the Grandmaster's seat to be vacant. However, all were in for a surprise when Nihar popped out from backstage dressed exactly like Mithunda.

He proceeded to sit through the entire show as Grandmaster for the day while making comments like Mithunda — “Mumtaaza, Mumtaaza!" or "Kya baat, kya baat!" or "Inhone jab sab kuch keh diya hai toh mai kya kahu?" Much to the delight of the contestants and judges, the production team had also created a mini version of the Grandmaster's chair, which accommodated Nihar perfectly.

Nihar was perfectly content in his new role as he got to reprimand his co-host Rithvik Dhanjani during the show.

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: The card 'Nine of Wands' can make this a day of enjoyment and opportunity. Personal plans are likely to receive a severe setback. Your child's performance makes you happy. Tarot message: Don't be bullied into accepting situations you dislike. Lucky colour: Royal-blue. Magic number: 41

TAURUS: You will have no problem getting along with members of the family. Romance is under thoughtful stars. Routine attendance at groups or meetings can be re-scheduled. Tarot message: Take limited risks and don't jeopardize your long-term capital. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 62

GEMINI: Watch out for the unexpected. Business matters will not turn out to be as straight-forward as they first appear. Discuss important moves that you wish to make with influential people. Tarot message: Balance and perspective will lead you out of a problematic situation. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 57

CANCER: The King of Swords suggests that you make a real effort on the job because laziness, incompetence and inadequate performances won't be tolerated by bosses, clients or customers. Tarot message: Plan your life better to avoid delays. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 26

LEO: Ace of Cups will set your mood for getting nagging chores out of the way. Thoroughly check the 'to-do' list and clear as many items as possible. You will be surprised how good you feel once a production day's work is over. Tarot message: Make a choice and then live with the outcome. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 63

VIRGO: Love affairs will blossom, but do not go on face value. Dress in alluring clothes for maximum appeal, but steer away from rough venues. Success comes only with hard work. Tarot message: Focus on professional changes. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 27

LIBRA: The support of an expert will help you master whatever subject you are committed to learning. You are not likely to be taken unawares by surprise happenings. Tarot message: Cut away the frills and concentrate on what is truly important. Lucky colour: Sea-green. Magic number: 28

SCORPIO: Personal plans will have to be put aside again. This evening is ideal for serious discussion or a heart-to-heart with your partner if something important is pending. Tarot message: Do not refuse offers without seeking advice. Lucky colour: Metallic-grey. Magic number: 30

SAGITTARIUS: Travel arrangements can be difficult to make. Time spent alone on reading and studying will not be wasted. Housewives should seek ways to cut unnecessary expenditure. Tarot message: Do not get carried away by your initial success. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 43

CAPRICORN: This is an opportune day for those who are taking some exam. Sign new documents after lunch. Health gives no tension at all. Tarot message: Be articulate to prevent people from coming to their own conclusions. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 55

AQUARIUS: After a busy period of seasonal celebration, you will be glad to kick back and take it easy. Frank discussion can clear the air. Go along with the wishes of your spouse. Do not be too demanding. Tarot message: Do not let opposition faze you. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 57

PISCES: Your overall situation will improve. Superiors will be co-operative, offering you moral as well as financial backing. A romantic impulse can grab you and acts of kindness can make you popular with family as well as friends. Tarot message: Take one step at a time. Lucky colour: Light brown. Magic number: 37

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is October 5...

Mercury gives premonition and a very sharp memory; it makes you realistic, emotional, honest, helpful and diplomatic. Health should be given priority over social life. Investment in antiques and jewellery will bring gains and prosperity. A romantic encounter will be highly exciting, but not last long. A person close to you will make an attractive offer. It's a good year for communication. Friendships formed at this time will have 'far-reaching' potential.

Positive colors: Green, Turquoise; all green shades.

Select days: Wednesday, Friday.

Favourable numbers: 3, 6, 9.

Gems recommended: Emerald, Sapphire and Ruby.

Charity on birthday: Observe a fast or donate tea leaves in any 'langar'.

You share your birthday with Aishwarya Majumdar (October 5, 1993), who is a singing prodigy. She was awarded the title of Chhote Ustaad in 2008, at a musical reality show Amul Star Voice of India. She has sung and danced on Bollywood hits at Madison Square Park in New York.





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