Cultural mosaic
Triumph of good over evil-the underlying moral may be the same for Dussehra but the way of celebrations differs from place to place
Mona

The Bengali community celebrates Dussehra by smearing sindoor on the face
The Bengali community celebrates Dussehra by smearing sindoor on the face

Bad never lasts long…be it time or people. Good has to triumph. That's what festival of Vijayadashmi or Dussehra celebrates!

Ramlila across Chandigarh that ends in burning effigies of Ravan, Meghnath and Kumbhkaran is how we celebrate Dussehra in this region. Celebrations vary in different parts of India. Closer home, Kullu Dussehra is one huge affair. The seven day celebrations that begin on Dussehra date back to 17th century and enjoy the status of international fair today that attracts lots of tourists to Kullu!

If you happen to be in Mysore, Karnataka around Dussehra, celebrations are hard to miss. The traditional Jumbo Savari with the idol of the Goddess Chamundeshwari placed on a golden mandap atop a decorated elephant and the colourful procession is hard to miss.

The day is celebrated a little differently in different communities. Here's how they like it:

Coastal flavour

The Nanda family is celebrating the festival with fervour. Originally from Odhissa, puja is the most significant part of their celebrations. Traditionally, they have four days puja starting on Saptami. Sri Jagannath Temple-31 holds this puja here in Chandigarh.

"Along with the puja, lots of traditional khana peena marks the celebration. We also wear new clothes on Dussehra," says Surender Kumar Nanda. He's been living in this city for more than a decade now. Ask him on what he misses of the celebrations at his hometown, Godipada near Chilka Lake, he says, "When I was growing up the thrust of the festival was on puja. I miss the traditional rituals and the simplicity. Today the meaning gets lost in show off."

Touch of UP

Vandya Bagrodia is from Uttar Pradesh and she misses the Dussehra celebrations at her parents' home. "When I was growing up, buas will show up at home and all we sisters would gather to do tikka to brothers. The entire house would carry the festive spirit," she remembers.

Married to a Rajasthani family, here in Chandigarh she celebrates navratras.

Sweet memories

Mahesh Prajapati was brought up in Bhilai, Chhattisgarh. "The festival is celebrated with much fervour in our region. Dressed in new clothes, families go out for Ramlila and Ravan dahan. People prefer to walk and have great fun. Back home they give each other sonpati, heart shaped leaves from a particular tree that's considered auspicious. And have sweets in dinner, especially jalebi." Mahesh, an artiste has kept the tradition alive in Chandigarh too. His friends show up at his house that's nearer parade ground, together they walk to watch Ravan Dahan and enjoy sweets on way back.

mona@tribunemail.com

Traditional tilak

Pakhi Dutta was born and brought up in North India. Her family has always celebrated the festival traditional Bengali way. Durga Puja means a lot to her family, Dussehra is special too. "On the day, just before visarjan, suhagans put sindoor in Goddess' maang, then apply in theirs and apply on each other's face," shares Pakhi. The Bengali community gathers at Kali Bari Temple-47, Banga Bhavan-35 and some other places to mark the day.

"I like celebrating Dussehra here. In Kolkata, celebrations are at much grander scale but it's too crowded out there."

Seconds Mithu Roy, "We are good number of Bengali families here. For all five day celebrations, we dress up, show up at Banga Bhavan and enjoy the puja, eat khichri, labra (mix vegetables), tamatar chatni and pice (kheer).

On Dussehra dressed in shakhapala (white sarees with red border) we apply sindoor. The celebrations also mark our traditions like making alpana, white rangoli with rice paste" 

Fit for a queen
Royalty never ceases to fascinate. So when royal designers Mayankraj Singh and Khyati Singh bring their creations to Chandigarh, it does make news 
Manpriya Singh

Mayankraj Singh and Khyati Singh
Past magic: Mayankraj Singh and Khyati Singh

It's a somewhat close brush with regality and a lesson in the designs and drapes from a historical era. Designers Mayankraj Singh and Khyati Singh, apart from their labels and the collections, carry the royal households of Gujarat and Rajasthan, as part of their suffixes.

Inevitably, there's a recollection of the bygone era clubbed with the display of collections inspired by the royalty. "Shikarbaagh stands for fauna and flora. The embroideries and clothes inspired by the two were greatly favoured by the Indian royalty," Mayankraj Singh, introduces his five-year-old label, Shikarbaagh, while debuting with his collections in Chandigarh.

The collection comprises chiffons, tissue and kota doria saris adorned with silk embroidery. However, we wish the duo had brought in, if not their best, at least more of their collections to the city. Then there are the leheriyas, primarily associated with Rajasthan.

"Leheriyas were earlier meant only for the royal families. It's only in late 1990s that they became popular," shares the designer from Dhaulpur. The trivia on the exclusive few has just begun. "Do you know that all the royal ladies would often sport peacocks on their garments. One peacock means that a girl is single while three peacocks mean that she is married," he shares while pulling out a yellow dupatta with one peacock embroidered on it. Then there's a certain way of draping the garment. "Six folds in a saree means that a girl is single while seven folds meant she is married. Even today, we follow these rules." Just when you begin to wonder why would anybody wear their marital status on the sleeves? He smiles, "A peacock stands for worldly pleasures and a single bird means that the girl is ready to entice you!"

On till Oct 14, at Hotel Aroma-22. Chandigarh

manpriya@tribunemail.com

Mum’s the word

Khyati Singh's label Saffron is inspired by her mother-Princess Gitanjali Kumari of Danta (Gujarat). The collection comprises handicrafts on cotton, jal work, appliqué work et al. Her cotton garments range comprises kurtis, sarees, dresses with elements inspired from Gujarat. Danta has excelled in producing beautiful cottons and in the pre-Independence era. However, things dwindled with the influx of power looms.

"I am currently working on a collection making use of traditional print of Ajrak and Bharat Kaam." Watch out. 

Call letter
Higher education in a foreign university is an irresistible proposition. Here are a lucky few who went, who saw and who are now back to share experiences abroad
Mona

Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.

— Nelson Mandela

Pursuit of education takes one far and wide. We talk to some folks from Chandigarh who have, lived, studied or worked abroad on what they think have been strengths of Indian education system and what they think we could incorporate in it to make it better!

Brighter side

Apurva Chawla went to Fayetteville State University in North Carolina on a Fulbright Fellowship to teach and learn. While she taught Hindi there, she studied advanced English composition and Persian language.

With due respect

When I was there, I realised that we respect our teachers way more than the students out there. This still is the scene. I could figure the teachers do not get as much respect as they think is their due.

Freedom to learn

What I loved the most in the university was that teachers were free to design their syllabus and students to pick up the course. When you are free to teach and learn what you believe in, obviously you give your best shot and excel. It wasn’t pre-fixed, dated or imposed learning but the liberty to learn that I enjoyed most there!

Cook & tell

Gayatri Sood went to learn baking from what’s considered the best in France. A diploma from Le Cordon Bleu, Paris for six months has equipped Gayatri with the tricks of the trade.

Sincere approach

I feel we have more sincere, more dedicated teachers and that’s where we score over the education abroad.

Practical path

At Le Cordon Bleu, there was a lot more emphasis on practice than we have it here. The time ratio for theory and practical 1:3. Practically demonstrating, letting one do each and every step worked very well in the bakery. Plus learning newer recipes gave me a high. With students from as many as 50 countries left one richer not only in terms of professional learning but personal experience too. 

Home turf

Sakul Khanna took admission in Masters in Construction Management, University of Melbourne, Australia. He came back for he found the work experience at his mum’s architectural firm was way richer than the course but he doesn’t deny the exposure he got out there.

Well-equipped

Here we rue on syllabus overload. It benefits—it makes us work hard and puts us on a rigorous path. In universities abroad, the pace of study is more relaxed, no wonder Indians do better there, they are prepared well!

Campus life

Most campuses are 24X7. Your I-card allows you access to any part of campus at your convenience. The campus on its own is well suited for the maximum peer to peer interaction. There are spaces designed and mercifully no cultural, racial barriers. And, the independence you get propels you to only achieve higher. 

Perfect match

Rahul Sehgal, with a passion for software, was keen on doing engineering in mechanical and electronics. He found his perfect course Mechatronics Engineering in the University of Waterloo, Canada. In his second year, Rahul is home (Chandigarh) on a break before he resumes his studies.

Ground reality

We have an edge over others as our studies till class XII prepares us for long innings. Loads of concepts that I have already done in Class XII are part of my engineering course until fourth year.

Cross-cultural bonding

Competition is too tough in India. You have to work extremely hard to get into engineering college here and must have an excellent track record to land a job. While there, we have a great combination of studies and practice. I knew the concepts, got to practically play around those out there. In my first year of studies, I worked with Blackberry that not only paid me handsomely but got me a seamless initiation into the corporate world. The campus is not as colourful as they show in the movies. We have to study and libraries are we where spend our considerable time; but what I love is interaction with people across cultures. On campus I have friends from Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Middle East. They all love Bollywood! It’s such an enriching experience to know different practices and appreciate them.

mona@tribunemail.com

the ‘in’ side
Bring Morocco home 
Sukhmani

Moroccan decor is all about east and west fusion

Moroccan decor is all about east and west fusion
mix and match: Moroccan decor is all about east and west fusion

Morocco's rich culture is reflected in its alluring interior design style, characterised by vibrant colours and exquisite furnishings. If you're looking to bring an exotic yet elegant feel to your home, you should consider the elegantly mysterious elements found in Moroccan style décor. From vibrant colours to intricately designed wood and mosaic products, this luxurious, dramatic, and exciting style is becoming increasingly popular in modern homes.

Morocco is like a crossroads between the east and west, north and south; Moroccan décor blends styles from France, Portugal and Spain from the northwest, with strong Mediterranean, African, Persian, and Islamic influences from the south and east. This results in a unique and inspirational style specific to Morocco.

n Use of bold colours: Colours found in Moroccan interiors are often bright and warm, reflecting the climate and landscape in which they are found. Vibrant tangerine, sunshine yellow, exotic fuchsia, deep red, rich purple and brilliant turquoise. Alongside a cooler palette of brilliant white, cool metallic and dark wood. Blue is a prevalent colour in Moroccan interiors, evocative of the adjacent Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean. Shades of gold and yellow, found in the surrounding desert, are also frequently used. Rich reds and oranges that conjure images of African sunsets are the main highlighting colours.

n Furniture: Morocco's distinctive furniture is known for its unparalleled artisanship and attention to detail. Sofas and tables are inviting and set low to the ground. You will often find elaborate wrought iron scroll work, mother of pearl inlay, ornately carved wood, richly hued upholstery, and intricate mosaic or terra cotta tile details in Moroccan furniture.

n Lighting: Moroccan decor stresses on dim lighting created by lamps and pendants made from coloured glass cut metal and carved wood. I absolutely adore the Moroccan lanterns! Using candles in traditional lamps will add the romantic element of moving light to your décor.

n Mirrors: Mirrors enhance the ambiance of a Moroccan interior by subtly reflecting light and adding adornment to walls. Look for mirrors with decorative wrought iron work, deeply carved wood, onion dome-shaped frames, and metal or jewel embellishments.

n Fabrics: Fabrics are rich in colours with intricate textures and designs. Moroccan style is full of vivid patterns. A variety of tessellating shapes can be seen, often reflecting the architecture it's contained within. They use throw pillows and cushions in abundance and drape fabrics from furniture, window frames and even the ceilings. Mosquito netting over beds adds a mysterious touch, reminiscent of desert tents.

n Mosaics: Intricate tile work is a hallmark feature of Moroccan design, found everywhere from floors to walls to tabletops. Traditional Moroccan tiling, consists of numerous small tiles grouped together to form vibrant geometric patterns. For an exotic touch, try installing Moroccan-inspired tile as a kitchen backsplash or across an entire floor to make a dramatic statement

n Flooring: Floors of dark hardwood are covered with plush Persian rugs and stacked floor cushions to create the perfect base for a Moroccan style room. Ceramic tile is often used for flooring and gives a coolness much welcomed in the hot weather.

n Plants: Moroccan décor is incomplete without small and large house plants and flowers. Placed in large, colourful pots or baskets, exotic plants such as banana trees or papyrus help to create an oasis-like feel in a Moroccan style home.

While traditional Moroccan interiors are often extravagant and full of intricate detail, modern interpretations of Moroccan classics are a great fit for contemporary homes.

(Sukhmani is a Chandigarh-based interior and landscape designer)

Jazz it up
Mona

Juvalia & You offers a glittering choice in jewellery Customer is the king! It's an old adage, but never before a customer was spoilt as much as today… Juvalia & You goes a step ahead!

This fashion jewellery brand sends its stylists to the comfort of your home, you can choose what you like, it will be delivered at your doorsteps and you can pay cash on jewellery.

What they have on offer is jewellery inspired from different regions - Rajasthan, Bengal, Punjab, South India, North-East and many others. Kundan rajwara necklace, Radha Krishna necklace, matinee masala lariat, warrior bib, they have a hug range of necklace which is their top selling product. There are sets, bangles, earrings, anklets, hair bands, clutches and shoe pins (yes, to jazz up your shoes).

Their latest is the range of mangalsutras. Manesh Khanna, director sales, Juvalia & You, says, "The festive season is when women shop to their heart's content. Our Look Book has such tempting offers that they cannot help but order, specially our new festive collection."

Pearls, polki, kundan, semi-precious stones, chains - there are plenty of designs to choose from and variety of jewels - danglers, balis, studs, bajubands. Interestingly, their mangalsutras too have a range to choose from.

What Manesh takes pride in is their strong network, "Our sales team and stylists have established our base. We get new customers from word of mouth publicity and events (we had one two days back in Ludhiana). What's more, our stylists earn handsomely well, salary and perks (including foreign trips) and that have worked in our favour."

So if you were thinking of going out and buying fashion jewellery or accessories, you can try Juvalia & You. The price range starts from Rs 250 and goes up to Rs10,000.

mona@tribunemail.com

TRENDSETTER
Glare-ing details

Karanveer Arora Every person has a sense of style in his own right. Yet, there are only a few who’d attract the second glances, who have the power to make the camera go zoom on them. It could be the tousled hair or it could be torn jeans. Our this week’s face in the crowd Karanveer Arora, 17, believes in flaunting his style.

Describe your sense of style …

Feeling comfortable and trendy in whatever I wear is the primary objective to dressing up. Keeping up with the latest fashion trends also helps in evolving one’s style.

Latest addition in the wardrobe…

There are two actually— a Gucci belt and a Superdry shirt.

Brand freak or street smart?

I’m an absolute brand freak. Branded stuff really helps boost my confidence.

Choose one--sporty, glamorous or chic?

I would any day choose a glamorous look.

Your style icon…

I quite like Honey Singh’s sense of dressing and his style. At times, he is classy and he is glamorous!

Who’s the worst dressed celebrity around?

I can’t think of any at the moment. I guess everyone has their own sense of style.

One fashion trend you don’t understand…

Guys wearing absolutely skin-tight jeans. It doesn’t flatter our shape and doesn’t look masculine. Moreover, neither do they look good nor are they comfortable.

Your take on accessories...

A person can’t be completely dressed without accessories. A nice watch and glares are must.

You would love to be dressed up by….

Giorgio Armani for sure. He's simply the best designer we’ve had.

(As told to Manpriya Singh)

Almonds for weight loss

Good Pick: Designer Raman showcased her creations. A new study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that study participants consuming 43 grams of dry-roasted, lightly salted almonds every day experienced reduced hunger and improved dietary vitamin E and monounsaturated (good) fat intake without increasing body weight.

With continued increases in obesity rates and widespread nutrient shortfalls, it becomes increasingly important to identify foods that pose little risk for weight gain while providing health benefits.

The newly published four-week randomised, controlled clinical study, led by researchers at Purdue University, investigated the effects of almond consumption on weight and appetite.

The study included 137 adult participants at increased risk for type 2 diabetes. Participants were divided into five groups: a control group that avoided all nuts and seeds, a breakfast meal group and lunch meal group that ate 43 grams of almonds each with their daily breakfast or lunch, and a morning snack group and afternoon snack group that each consumed 43 grams of almonds between their customary meals. All almond snacks were eaten within approximately two hours after their last meal.

Participants were not given any other dietary instruction other than to follow their usual eating patterns and physical activity.

Participant compliance to consuming almonds was monitored through self-reported dietary intake assessments and fasting vitamin E plasma levels. Despite consuming approximately 250 additional calories per day from almonds, participants did not increase the total number of calories they ate and drank over the course of the day or gain weight over the course of the four-week study.

"This research suggests that almonds may be a good snack option, especially for those concerned about weight," says Richard Mattes, PhD, MPH, RD. —TNS

A glittering affair
Amarjot Kaur

Wedding bells ring in a new beginning and what better way to begin the celebrations than to shop! High Life, a wedding exhibition at the JW Marriot offered an exclusive range of designer wear and jewellery. The increasingly pouring crowd in the labyrinth of stalls bustled with the din of conversations that were typical of a shopping festival. The exhibition gave an avenue for creative improvisation, considering the wide range of ethnic and contemporary designs in clothes and jewellery.

Preeti of Tehzeeb Jewellery, said, "Well, at my stall I have a lot of traditional ands ethnic jewellery in kundan, silver and semi-precious stones and it's starting price is Rs 500 and it goes up to Rs 25,000." Meanwhile, a series of stalls, which exhibited a wide range of designer wear, included Kimz by Karishma Ahuja, which exhibited its designs on the theme of Bollywood and red carpet designs, the price range of which was Rs 1500 to Rs 20,000. Also, Le Magnifique-Raman's designer studio showcased designer suits, sarees, velvet shawls and stoles in pure georgette and digital prints and gota patti work. Riena's designer studio stall, however, features a distinct rather exquisite amalgam of contemporary and swish suits, shararas and lehangas, which were priced between the range of Rs 4,000 to Rs 40,000. Other designer clothes stalls included Libaaz, Adaa (Ludhiana based), Teeyan (Karnal based), Ellcanes Fashion Hub which offered hand embroidery and Rabbani's fashion studio.

Isha Sharma of The Dressing Loft, who exhibited a wide range of jewellery collection, included collar necklace and handcuff bracelets, also exhibited imported western wear comprising jackets and shrugs. "We are also offering bags and clutches, which are available between Rs 1000 to Rs 2500," she said. The exhibition also features pure Pashmina shawls by JA Inc. 

Eggs-cellent choice

(L-R) Dr Dhirendra Kumarand Mohit Raja On the occasion of World Egg Dayon October 11, an awareness session on health benefits of eggs was organised jointly by Raja Farms Pvt. Ltd under which are produced fully mechanised and branded packed eggs (PEGGS), ensuring standard, weight and hygiene of the product, Novus Animal Nutrition Pvt. Ltd and Libra Animal Nutrition Co.

In this session experts from the poultry Industry and veterinary fraternity, shared some very interesting facts about health benefits of egg consumption. According to Mohit Raja, director, Raja Farms Pvt. Ltd., "An egg has 70 calories providing 13 essential nutrients in varying amounts. Eggs contain the highest quality protein you can buy and have just the right mix of essential amino acids needed by humans to build tissues."

Adds Raja, "Egg protein is the standard by which other protein sources are measured. A large egg contains over 6 grams of protein."

Says Dr Dhirendra Kumar, a veterinarian cum poultry consultant, "According to a recent research, eggs may prevent breast cancer. In a study, women who consumed at least six eggs per week lowered their risk of breast cancer by 44 per cent."

Adds Dr Kumar, "Eggs protect and accentuate all organs of the body with its composition - be it of growing children, women, aged people etc. Egg consumption leads to ingestion of useful amounts of folate beneficial for growth and maintenance of healthy cells, Vitamin A essential for growth and cell differentiation, iron for healthy blood cells, zinc for building muscle tissue, internal organs and immune functions, iodine for proper mental development, Omega 3 which helps enhance visual functions. What's more, it also has vitamin D and E."

—TNS

star track
Bolly belle likes it the way it is

Desi girl: Sonakshi Sinha Sonakshi Sinha talks about her desi image, code of conduct, her movies and more…

No image issues

Why would I change my Indian image? I am happy the way I am. And I am happy that my films are doing well at the box-office. Small town is very big in cinema today, so why do you want me to change? Jab tak aisi filmein chal rahi hain, tab tak main aisi hi rahungi.

Code of conduct

From the time I entered the industry, I have always been clear about certain things - no short clothes, no kissing, no bikinis. Nobody comes to me with such roles. And I have no dearth of work.

Tribute to Sridevi

Nobody can recreate the kind of magic that she did in Har kisi ko nahi milta. That doesn't mean we can't try and pay a small tribute to her and Feroz Khan. But one should never make the mistake of comparing us with legends like Sridevi or Madhuri Dixit.

Work over love

I don't have the time for love. Everything has a time and place in your life. Right now, it's work for me. When it has to happen, it will happen. As for the link-up with Ranveer, it was all bakwas.

R...Rajkumar or Bullett Raja

I cannot choose between the two movies. It's like asking a mother to pick her favourite child! Both are my films. I have to plan and divide my time equally for the promotion of each while keeping in mind that the audiences do not get confused between the two. Earlier, both were scheduled to release on the same day, but I requested the producers to space them out.

Work & leisure

Bipasha Basu Bipasha Basu is in London shooting for Humshakal for nearly a month and she is not getting along with Esha Gupta.

Things are better for her now as her beau Hurman Baweja has joined her there, they were missing each other.

New home

Aamir Khan has been staying on rent in a gorgeous sea-facing apartment in Bandra and now he has purchased the huge duplex apartment for a whopping Rs 60 crore! His brother and mother will stay in his old apartment.


Celebrations postponed

Esha Gupta Esha Gupta is in London shooting for Humshakal and she had to miss her father's birthday. She comes from a close knit family and is very close to her father. Her family celebrates every occasion together. So they will have a big celebration when she returns.


Missing home: Esha Gupta

Happy days are here

Salman Khan Salman Khan has bought the rights of Malayalam film called Happy Days which has been remade in the South a couple of times. Salman will produce this film and has roped in Puneet Issar to direct it.

Next Step: Salman Khan

Pulkit’s got busy

Pulkit Samrat is going places. After the success of Fukrey and a solo film for him, his hands are becoming full with endorsements. He has signed on for a cola brand commercial recently.


chatter box
Return of Gurmeet

Gurmeet Singh Gurmeet is all set to make his comeback after a short break with the celebrity dance reality show Nach Baliye-6 on Star Plus. The versatile dancer has been working day in and out for the same. Gurmeet, a tie-hard fan of Aamir Khan has worked on his body. He vows to come back with a six pack on the show with his better half Debina.

His lady love has fully supported him through this journey. The actor has also kept a low profile, cut down on parties so that nothing hinders his comeback. He has even gone ahead and grown his hair for a new look. Gurmeet shares, "I want to give this project my hundred per cent which is the reason I have been missing in action for a while.

Given that this is a huge project and a challenge that Debina and I are extremely passionate about, we both have put in a lot of effort on our looks and physique. While we are coming on the dance floor to win the heart of our fans, we would also like to give them a little surprise." So, girls better get prepared to watch the 'all new' Gurmeet! Catch Gurmeet and Debina on Star Plus' Nach Baliye-6 soon.

Step up: Gurmeet Singh

Different roles

After a powerful performance in Na Aana Iss Des Meri Laado and 26/11, talented actress Shikha Singh can now be seen in Colors' Sasural Simar Ka. She plays a negative role as Shaurya's (Rohit Khurana) sister, Meghna. She will also be seen later as Shikhandi in Star Plus' Mahabharat.

Tell us about your role in Sasural Simar Ka?

I am the antagonist in the show. She has both grey and white shades

You have always done negative roles. Is this your forte?

I did a negative role only in 26/11. My other role Amba and the one I played in Left Right Left were also positive. I am considered for roles that are powerful and strong. I can't do a 'bichari' type of a role. I am also doing a role in Adaalat, so from mythological to crime to daily soap I am having a great time on TV.

You are playing Shikhandi in Star Plus' Mahabharat which will be a challenge.

Yes, it is. I have been shooting with them and the experience is beautiful. It is a long track and currently the challenge is to manage between both my shows. Mahabharat shoot is in Gujarat while SSK is in Mumbai, so I am shuttling between the two places.

Where do you see yourself in the coming five years from now?

I see myself as an established actor who also writes and a producer as well.

Tell us about your personal life?

I wouldn't like to say much except I have a lovely family and a good set of friends.

Who are your friends in the industry?

None of my friends are actors.

Big B spins on garba

Big B with Jetha (L) & Daya (R) on the sets of KBC The garba fever seems to have spread on the sets of Kaun Banega Crorepati courtesy Daya and Jetha's special appearance. Both took the entertainment quotient to another level and even made Big B dance to a garba song. Daya and Jetha entered the stage and kept hiding behind AB's back. AB got puzzled and enquired on what they were up to? They replied, Aapne hi kaha na, hum jahaan khade hote hain line wahi se shuru hoti hain. They also brought along an Aarti plate to do the Aarti of the computer.

Daya and Jetha took turns and sang a made up song in the 'om jai jagdish' tune to impress the computer. Later, Jetha bhai gifted AB a rumal with AB's signature on it. He revealed that one of his friends had given him the designer rumal. Finally, Daya got AB to do garba with her. Bachchan, Daya and Jetha all danced to the song Odhni much to the applause of the audience. Catch Amitabh Bachchan dance to the tunes of garba with Daya-Jetha on KBC this Sunday, October 13, 8:30 pm only on Sony Entertainment Television.

What’s cooking!

Arjun Bijlani Arjun Bijlani who has been missing in action for quite sometime will soon be seen in a rom-com called Jo Biwi Se Kare Pyaar. This show also stars Shweta Gulati as his wife and is produced by Deepti Bhatnagar. Arjun is looking forward to the comedy, which also entails cooking on the show.

Astro Turf
P. Khurrana

ARIES: You can achieve quite a lot once you get going. Never trust a stranger. Socially, you may have some problems with your loved one; however, it would not be too serious. In close relationships, do not let friends and family get in the way. Tarot message: You need to be creative. Lucky colour: Fuchsia Lucky number: 60

TAURUS: Work will progress smoothly. You will be in the mood to socialise and meet new people while widening your social circle. Your hectic schedule may leave you feeling tired; make it a priority to rest and relax. Tarot message: Arrogance and pride will not be rewarded. Lucky colour: Violet Lucky number: 27

GEMINI: Be extra careful if you are signing any paper work as there could be more to the situation than what meets the eye. Socialising will keep you busy. There could be some new career opportunities. Tarot message: Do not try to end all the deadlock at one go. Lucky colour: Metallic grey Lucky number: 39

CANCER: Health and physical energy is good but you need to take frequent breaks and watch out your diet. Monetary gains are indicated. You will have to juggle your schedule in order to meet all your commitments. Tarot message: Delays are the only obstacle in your way to success. Lucky colour: Deep red. Lucky number: 40

LEO: If there are important meetings today, you need to be focused and prepared as seniors and business associates will take note of your ability to handle last minute changes. Your love life will be good. Tarot message: Act righteously and do your duty on time. Lucky colour: Navy blue Lucky number: 61

VIRGO: You may be unable to make up your mind about an important decision. You will be in a cheerful frame of mind. Students need to fine tune their plans for higher education. Tarot message: Avoid confrontation and making personal remarks. Lucky colour: White Lucky number: 37

LIBRA: You feel exhausted and decide to take time off your hectic schedule. Issues about money matters may be on your mind. Going out of your way to help colleagues will earn you good will and appreciation. Tarot message: Focus on professional changes. Lucky colour: Peach Lucky number: 31

SCORPIO: You could be in a tense mood and may feel agitated about certain matters concerning your career or personal life. Don't give in to uncertainties as this is a just a temporary phase. You attract prestigious opportunities. Tarot message: Do not delegate your tasks to anyone. Lucky colour: Saffron Lucky number: 29

SAGITTARIUS: Try to tune into today's influences which will restore you to amiable humour. Focus on health, diet and exercise. Business can be carried out successfully. Tarot message: You need to act for yourself and for no one else. Lucky colour: Lotus Pink Lucky number: 65

CAPRICORN: Avoid Scorpio who will drag you down with a cautious advice. You will learn from practical experience. Music and dip in the arts are uplifting. Certain tedious people seem to be telling you to do what you don't want to do. Tarot message: Act wise. Lucky colour: Yellow Lucky number: 27

AQUARIUS: Do what is true for you. Let today's influences bounce up your optimism. You deserve a break. There is a good deal of success coming your way very soon so, all you have to do is travel hopefully. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid the inbuilt delays that comes your way. Lucky colour: Silver grey. Lucky number: 42

PISCES: Just proceed slowly and cautiously, double-check everything. Yoga and swimming are great fitness routine for you. Too much will power can sometimes make you can push yourself past your limits. Tarot message: Avoid gossip sessions. Lucky colour: Brown Lucky number: 63

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is October 13...

Your birthday falls this year on the Navmi and Vijaya Dashmi / Dussehra day. You are going to make great financial plans. Expenditure rises, at the same time, rise in income takes care of your bills. Keep appropriate distance from over friendly strangers. Join hands with people who are creative and have similar ideas as yours. The year brings some problems with in-laws or parents. Family tussle may affect your married life.

Positive colours: Pastel, gray, smoke blue

Select days: Saturday, Sunday

Favourable numbers: 2,4,8

Gems recommended: Gomed,Garnet

Charity on Birthday: Keep barley at home. Distribute sugarcane amongst the poor.

Kate Walsh (Kathleen Erin Walsh) was born on October 13, 1967 in San Jose, California, USA. She played in films like Normal Life, Peppermills, Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer Part 2, Bewitched, Wake Up, Ron Burgundy: The Lost Movie and Under the Tuscan Sun. She appeared with her memorable quote in the series When you turn your car on, does it return the favor?





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