Literati—2013
On day one of the Literati Chandigarh Lit Fest 2013, Gul Panag, Ashok Vajpeyi, Kishwar Desai and Madhu Kishwar share excerpts from their literary journeys...

A date with words
Mona

Gul Panag
Gul Panag

Kishwar Desai
Kishwar Desai

Madhu Kishwar
Madhu Kishwar

Authors mingled with their audience; volunteers took a moment off for getting an autograph signed or a picture clicked, if literary talk pervaded the atmosphere, the most vocal was the discussion on recent sexual assault case. The scene was vibrant, the atmosphere charged; Literati Chandigarh Lit Fest 2013 managed to scale its high moments. Here are few who shared their mind.

Learning curve

Gul Panag believes in following an independent path. Happy making Mumbai her home, acting, producing and writing, she is currently busy finishing her book on health and fitness. Gul makes a big deal of attending Literati. “It’s like attending a master class,” vouches the vibrant girl who was part of sessions Women and the Paradox of Modernity and Exotica is New Erotica (on travel experiences).

Mumbai makes people in the industry totally film- centric, something that Gul doesn’t believe in. “I believe in rounded growth, so I keep busy doing things that interest me.” Being a former beauty queen comes with a baggage of being ‘dumb’ and that’s what Gul is out to refute, “My recent Masters degree with distinction in three subjects is my way of refuting those who still label me as just a ‘former beauty queen’.”

She is happy doing roles that interest her. “I believe in cinema that a common man can associate with. Far from life, fantasy is not my cup of tea.” She can count her filmy friends on her finger tips, but that doesn’t bother her, “I have friends from other walks of life and then I have my husband to hang out with,” she gives a dimpled smile.

Gul’s book on fitness keeps her busy. And she is happy sharing her tip, “Whenever you eat, think whether it falls in the category of nourishment or indulgence. Indulge once a while, but be mindful of that.”

Keen eye

Ashok Vajpeyi has her own fan-following and merrily chats away on varied aspects of his life — being a poet, critic, architect and more. “Literary Festivals offers the opportunity to writers of knowing their readers, which is remarkable,” says Vajpeyi, who is not too happy that Indian languages get little attention at such fests. Currently, he is busy writing on Kabir and Ghalib, not from an academic’s point of view but something different and unusual.

Sensitive thought

Kishwar Desai is glad at the change Chandigarh has seen in the last three decades. While three decades back, she would struggle to get an art piece inserted in the daily she worked for, today Literati has received so much attention. Her journey from print to television to a being a novelist has been a fruitful one. Based in London today, gender issues remain something close to her heart. “Reporting a rape on an inner page of paper doesn’t work, as does the story of a scribe that we are all reading these days or Nirbahaya case.” Her The Sea of Innocence, which centred on rape, was written before Delhi incident. “I believe a novel sensitises you way better,” says Kishwar who is going back to writing once all over again on Bollywood.

Honest take

Madhu Kishwar remains a sought-after speaker at Literati. What she likes most is the venue, the Lake Club, and the relaxed atmosphere at the lit fest. She too like many is shocked out of her wits at the current sexual assault case, “It’s a sign of an arrogance of power,” she says. Currently busy with two books on Gujarat, Madhu shares, “Despite the attempts to malign him, Modi remains one amongst the best politicians in country.”

mona@tribunemail.com

International Film Festival of India, Goa
It’s a woman’s world!
Neelofer Shama, associate director of A Man’s Desire For Fifth Wife, the only official entry from Afghanistan at IFFI this year, says the challenge was shooting in a country where the Taliban reigns supreme…
Nonika Singh

A Man’s Desire For Fifth Wife…it’s not merely the title of the film that catches our attention. Beyond the fact that the film happens to be the only official entry from Afghanistan at IFFI is its strong India connect as most of its technical team has been from India. But even more interesting is the story of its associate director, a woman at that and not just any, but one from India, Kashmir to be precise.

Meet Delhi-based Neelofer Shama, director of innumerable tele-serials and documentaries who has helmed this film in the capacity of associate director. Sure we all know it’s the director of the film who is the captain of the ship. Nilofer doesn’t dispute that either but reminds us, “Since the director M Sediq Abedi also is the lead actor here, you can imagine what all was entrusted to me.” And the challenge became doubly onerous for they were not just shooting in any land but in the heart of a country where the writ of Taliban reigns supreme. But there she was for two months at a stretch giving commands to men who were no just actors but real Afghani people. Since the film, essentially a love story deals, with Afghanistan’s much-loved sport Buzakashi, she had to often deal with frames involving thousands of men.

Of course, the shadow of threat loomed large and one night became particularly ominous. But dealing with turbulent times is a lesson that this feisty Kashmir sardarni had learnt early in life. In her long career that has included making films for Doordarshan on several aspects of Kashmir, she had to tackle many an unsavory situation. Luckily for her, in Afghanistan they had full support of the local populace. She says, “Afghanis simply love India especially our cinema and still have fond memories of watching Raj Kapoor’s films.” Their own cinema is all but finished and this film produced by Sabruddin Rahmani, Murad Hamidi, and Farid Yarash, has been first such independent effort after a span of 66 years.

She is happy that the film, whose music has been given by Ravindra Jain and production designed by her other half Sanjay Bhan, has made it to IFFI. The only regret, “Wish it had gone into the competitive section.” But any awards that the film might get… wouldn’t the director get the credit? She replies, “So what, my hard work in the film will not go unnoticed.”

In near future she might make another film. Could be based on Afghanistan…actually during her recent visit she did stumble upon a subject related to Sikhs settled there. Between making films and programmes for television, she finds little technical difference. Doordarshan on which she has shown majority of her work she hails as the vanguard of Indian tradition. She quips, “Its dos and don’ts ensure that our good old value system is not disturbed.”

You bet A Man’s Desire For Fifth Wife doesn’t cross any lines either and is in her words a saaf suthri film. During the shooting she strictly adhered to the dress code of the country as well. While in Afghanistan do as Afghanis do… may not be her mantra. But respecting the sentiments of others comes naturally to this woman who belongs to many cultures and religions.

Up next

Having adapted the literary works of many a giant like Kartar Singh Duggal on television, Neelofer Shama is all set to make yet another tele-serial based on Punjab’s legendary writer Amrita Pritam’s work. Also in the pipeline is a documentary on Gyanpeeth awardee Professor Satya Vrat Shastri the great Sanskrit scholar.

Comic caper
Manpriya Singh

Eijaz Khan and Shraddha Das.
pairing uP: Eijaz Khan and Shraddha Das. Photo: Manoj Mahajan

The title often lends itself to a lot of probabilities. Nevertheless, when we are caught unaware and clueless about Lucky Kabootar, the cast and crew steps in to clear things.

At times, it is better to give away than cover up. The upcoming Hindi movie borders on the current obsession of Punjabi cinema-romance. Lead actor Eijaz Khan, tests waters and tries his luck with the title role. "I play Lucky Singh, so he is the Lucky Kabootar in question," he shares, while in Chandigarh. "It's a very interesting character that I play. How the guy changes when suddenly he is bestowed with a lot of money. The responsibility of the title role is on my shoulders," shares the television and film actor, who has to his credit roles in Zilla Ghaziabad and Tanu Weds Manu.

Joining him is the leading lady Shraddha Das, the Indian film actress who's mainly appeared in films Down South. As for this movie, she is all set to depict a North Indian beauty. "I play a Punjabi girl in the movie. It's a very dumb blonde character that I have in the film. The entire village is crazy for the girl. She also thinks too highly of herself."

Comedy needs a couple of things right, most of all comic timing. Sometimes playing the part comes easy, at other times, it's a challenge. She laughs, "Yes, it was difficult to play this character because I'm not dumb in real life."

Playing a Punjabi girl is a perfect warm-up to more serious roles in the regional industry. "I've already done Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam films; now I've even played a Punjabi girl. I'd love to act in Punjabi films too. It's my second visit to Chandigarh. I've already been here before to shoot for the film."

There's also a three film deal to look forward to. She shares, "I have a three film deal with Anubhav Sinha's banner. One film, titled Zidd, should be releasing in coming March. In the film I play a girl from Goa. It's a very modern character." What yet remains to be explored are a couple of dream projects. "Something like Julia Roberts in Notting Hill. I'd love to play that character onscreen."

manpriya@tribunemail.com 

gyan zone
Attention  brides!
The two-day exhibition Bridal Affair 2013 is one-stop shop for brides-to-be
Jasmine Singh

Photos: Parvesh Chauhan Breaking stereotypes, if you thought weddings and all that jazz related to it was moving on its usual pace, you definitely need to skim through wedding magazines or maybe just drop by Bridal Affair 2013 starting at Taj on November 24 and 25. Brought together by Rashmi Bindra's Dream Weddings, this two-day exhibition will get you up, close with how the stereotypes are being broken in the wedding trousseau section.

At the exhibition you can shop for the wedding trousseau made available by various designers, bridal and evening wear, jewellery, accessories and a lot more.

Shares Vandana Talwar from Pre.Va.Su Couture who is participating for the first time, "Bridal couture is not just about the bride or the groom, it is an affair that involves the whole family," says she. Along with her mother and sister, Vandana has tried to break the stereotypes in her collection. "We have used subtle colours like red and golden instead of the dark hues. We have kept the taste subtle yet classy. "

Bridal Affair 2013 brings bridal extravaganza and exotic jewellery and much more to Chandigarh. 

Get to the roots

Offering a unique lounge and sit-in experience enhanced by soothing sounds of live music, the first-ever 'roots lounge' opened in Sector 32, Chandigarh. Promoted by Ashish Kamra, who also started the very popular Mr Rooster in Mohali, the roots lounge promises to blend delicious food and music like never before.

Speaking on the launch of roots lounge, Ashish Kamra said, "The 'roots lounge' is a project close to our heart and we plan to share our love of authentic Punjab with a smattering of pan Asian and European flavours with a wide spectrum of Lahori tikkas, prawn shots, lemon butter fish, chips and pasta. The elaborate menu includes steaks, grills, wraps, sandwiches, burgers, seafood and lot more."

The roots lounge has a fresh 3-dimensional, concept. The first and foremost dimension is the food on offer. The 'roots lounge' has an interesting array of completely unique delicacies, like the first of its kind food shots! On offer are exotic prawn shots, delectable dim- sum shots and tangy spring roll shots presented in a serving of six in custom cutlery with accompanying dips and sauces. The menu has incorporated some of the popular items from the menu of Mr Rooster.

The menu at roots lounge includes the popular ham and bacon burger, fillet-a-chicken burger, herbie veg-burger, their own milky soft peta breads, grilled chicken steak, chicken in barbeque sauce, grilled fish in lemon butter sauce and authentic Hyderabadi biryani.

The second dimension is the ambience. The architecture and interior of "roots lounge" designed by Himani gives you a relaxing and vibrant feel at the same time. The 'one-of-its-kind lounge' has a soothing and relaxing ambience, with low-reclining couches and soft lighting in the lounge area. Whereas the sit-in area has a young and vibrant feel to it, with the décor reflecting trendy sitting arrangements.

The third and a very important dimension of roots lounge is the live music. The lounge area has a 'music-junction', a stage where budding artists will showcase their talent by giving live performances. The visitors can also enjoy the feel of the stage by participating in the karaoke-night which would be held once-a-week. Another attraction is the dedicated "photo-wall" where photographs clicked by budding photographers would be displayed. —TNS

A hallmark achievement

short & sweet: The cast and crew of Tryst with Destiny Delhi Short International Film Festival (DSIFF)-2013 was held recently and Hallmark Public School participated in it. There were 30 countries which had entered this festival. All the schools were to make a short film under very challenging terms.

The film Tryst with Destiny was viewed by a distinguished jury, who awarded the first prize to the school.

The jury had in its panel the likes of Dr D C Singh, film producer and chief advisor of mini box office, VS Kannan, producer-director of South India (who has cast Rajnikanth and Kamal Hasan), Loveleen Tandon, co-director of Slumdog Millionaire and Savita Raj, producer of Khosla Ka Ghosla. The short film entered by Hallmark was produced by Jivtesh Garg, director of the school and its direction and lyrics were by Kavita Wadhwa, principal of the school. The writer was Abhishek Sharma, music director Gaurav Anand, and its cast comprised Divyanshu Malhotra and Deepika Bhardwaj.

According to Jivtesh Garg, director, Hallmark Public School, Panchkula, "The International Film Festival 2013 celebrated 100 years of Indian Cinema. The common topic given to all participants was Independence in the '60 hour short film challenge for schools."

Adds Garg, "The 5 minute short film had to be made in 60 hours. The entire scripting, casting, shooting, costume, art direction, music direction, sub-titles (as language was in Hindi), editing, rendering mastering of DVD was done out-and-out in 60 hours. —TNS

star track
Deepika works with young brigade

Lately, Deepika Padukone has been working with the young brigade of B'town directors. All her movies with them have become big hits. She has been seen doing a lot of young and modern roles in their movies.

She worked with Homi Adajania in Cocktail. Her character Veronica was applauded. The actress was widely appreciated for the sassiness she bought on the silver screen.

She gave one of the biggest hit of the year with director Ayan Mukerji's Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani. The girl next door Naina she played, stole everyone's heart.

Both the movies Cocktail and Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani got roaring success and great response from the audience. Ram Leela has got her a fabulous response and is doing very well at the box office.

Deepika says, "It is a combination of destiny and hard-work for me. I feel blessed and grateful for the opportunities that have come my way."

Going ahead she will again join hands with Homi Adajania's upcoming movie Finding Fanny. She will be seen opposite Arjun Kapoor for the first time.

She will also work with Imtiaz Ali for his untitled project with Ranbir Kapoor. Deepika will be seen in a big South Indian period drama, Kochadaiiyaan along with Rajnikanth. The movie has been directed by Soundarya R. Ashwin.

Katrina Barbie doll for Aamir’s son

As a marketing strategy, perfectionist Aamir Khan and Katrina Kaif has launched a new design of Barbie doll inspired from Katrina Kaif's role in Dhoom 3 and during the launch Aamir said that he wants to gift the Barbie doll to his son Azad.

Katrina is playing an acrobat in the film and the Barbie collector doll is based on her character Aaliya from Dhoom 3 while Aamir Khan's collector doll is inspired from his Dhoom 3 character Sahir, who is a performer in circus and later grown up to be a smart thief.

"I love this idea of dolls. I would like to give one to Azad. I am excited as this is my first ever collector doll based on my movie character. I have worked closely on developing my look in Dhoom 3," Aamir said here. Katrina too is happy about the look.

By immortalizing Dhoom 3 doll, American toy manufacturing company Mattel for the first time associated with Bollywood. They have immortalised several Hollywood celebrities and characters from international blockbusters like Twilight and The Hungers Games.

Dhoom 3 is the third installment of Dhoom series. The earlier Dhoom series have remained popular among youths and bike lovers. Abhishek Bachchan will continue to play the role of police officer along with his assistant Uday Chopra.

Aamir will play a smart thief and Katrina his partner in crime. Both the actors had undergone rigorous training. The perfectionist feels that his role in Dhoom 3 has been his toughest role despite the fact that the actor has played varied roles. He says, "I think Dhoom 3 is my toughest role so far. I have never played anything like this before. Every film is challenging, but this was a tough role.."

Sound of music

Contemporary music legend Kailash Kher talks about the new music he has created with his band Kailaasa which is an item song and yet different from the rest.

Set standard

One should set some standards for oneself, there should be a benchmark to how much one should compromise when it comes to good lyrics. Every creative person needs to draw his ethics even if it's at the cost of delivering a song that might not be a chartbuster. Audience is like an empty canvas, they will reflect the colours that's filled in them. It's time to educate them about good music. This cannot be achieved with nonsense content masquerading as creativity.

Lasting note

In the olden days, music and lyrics played an important role in a film. The composers, music directors and singers spent a lot of time on it. I believe that music should be more than just a creative attempt, it should touch the listeners soul. Songs should have an element of sensitivity for people to empathise with. I want to create music that lasts through generations.

Belief system

It is my firm belief that wealth will come and go but respect is irreplaceable. Our country is a treasure house of diverse cultures, religions and philosophies but the common thread is spirituality. The current generation is busy trying to be cool, which is so stupid. Have they forgotten that it's only in India that we don't need an appointment to meet our parents? Isn't this reason to celebrate?

Source of inspiration

People doing the routine thing in a creative manner encourage me to work harder. There are days when my four-year-old son Kabir's questions intrigue me. It makes me look at things from his perspective and also seek answers to his questions. Such reflections help me create good music.

Sohum Shah’s new look!

Sohum Shah, who garnered unequivocal praise for his performance in Ship of Theseus, has undergone a striking physical transformation for his next film, Tumbad. "It is a dark period thriller set against colonial India, infused with elements of fantasy. I had to bulk up for my role by following a strict regimen to stay true to the physicality prevalent in 1930s India." said the actor-producer.

The team did several test shoots before zeroing in on Sohum's look for the film. On his part, the actor also thoroughly researched the kind of costumes worn in that era. "My first day on the set, most of the crew found it hard to recognise me!" he says.

Produced by Recyclewala Films, it also marks the directorial debut of Rahi Anil Barve whose short film Manjha was released by Danny Boyle with the Slumdog Millionare Blu-Ray. Some portions of Tumbad, which is scheduled to release next year, were screened at the NFDC Film Bazaar in Goa last year, where it was hailed a visual masterpiece.

I am itching to direct a film: Sunny Deol

Bollywood star Sunny Deol says he is yearning to go behind the camera again, but his dream would take a year or two to take off.

The 57-year-old actor, who would be seen next in Singh Sahab the Great, ventured into direction with 1999 film Dillagi.

"I am itching to direct a film. There is a director in me, who is desperately wanting to do something. But I am holding it for a year or two. The subject of the film can be anything which strikes me," Deol told in an interview.

Singh Sahab the Great, which also stars actress Amrita Rao and newbie Urvashi Rautela, is directed by Anil Sharma. "After a couple of years I am doing a solo film, I am very keen for this film to do well. I am expecting this will let me know what I am going to be doing tomorrow. I have a great belief in the subject as Sharma Ji and I have always given good films," he said.

The actor said he likes collaborating with the director. "Sharmaji has always come up with the story which I love and we have always challenged each other because he has come up with subjects which are widely different," he said.

Some of scenes of the movie were filmed in jail, and the actor said he felt relaxed after coming out if it. — PTI

No arranged marriage for Shahid…

Bollywood actor Shahid Kapoor today dismissed reports about his father actor Pankaj Kapoor looking for a girl for him and said that he will choose the life partner for himself.

Recently, there were reports that Shahid's father had made a few trips to Punjab to find a girl for his son. "I can promise you that my father is not looking for any girl for me. When I read that article I was shooting for Haider in Kashmir and my father was shooting for Finding Fanny in Goa. And according to the article my father was in Punjab... So no truth in it," Shahid said.

"He (father) goes there (Punjab) because some of our family and his spiritual guru is there. People are drawing a different meaning out of it. He will never take the pressure on himself (of looking for a girl), because I am quite finicky. And I like making my own choices," he said.

When asked what he feels about the absence of lady love in his life, he says that it has its pros and cons. Shahid asserts that as far as marriage is concerned, he would choose his own life partner. "I will not marry a girl of father's choice, because he doesn't have to stay with the girl, I have to stay.”— PTI

Urvashi in awe

Model-turned-actress Urvashi Rautela, who makes her Bollywood debut with Anil Sharma's Singh Saab The Great is fond of her co-star Sunny Deol. She is a big fan of Sunny and admires him as a person. She enjoyed working with him and wants him to be hero in her next film as well. Aww… that's sweet!

Jai Ho Genelia

Actress Genelia D'souza, who married actor Riteish Deshmukh last year, is all set to return to silver screen. Buzz is that she is doing a role in Sohail Khan's Jai Ho. Sources say that it was a cameo which was later turned into an extended role.

Arbaaz minus Salman

Actor Salman Khan will not star in his brother Arbaaz Khan's next home production. As Salman is busy with back-to-back shooting schedules, Arbaaz has three months free time. Buzz is that Arbaaz has decided to utilise that free time and invest in a woman-centric film.

Patriotic move

Actor Sunny Deol, whose new film Singh Saab The Great has opened in theatres, unveiled a wax statue of freedom fighter Bhagat Singh on his 106th birth anniversary on November 21 in Mumbai.

At the event, he said: "I did a film on Bhagat Singh. What can I say about Shaheed Bhagat Singh, history is there in front of you all and we salute him always, over and over again."

Sunny played freedom fighter Chandrashekhar Azad in Guddu Dhanoa's 2002 biopic 23rd March 1931: Shaheed, based on Bhagat Singh's life. Bobby Deol had played the main lead.

The statue will be installed in Sunil Kandalloor's wax museum in Lonavla. The museum also houses other waxworks, including that of Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru. 

chatter box
Double dhamaka

In the grand finale episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati, host Amitabh Bachchan will be seen in a double avatar. He will be playing the host and the guest! As a guest, he will be in a common man's avatar, dressed in a dhoti and kurta; called Lallan bhaiya!

Sporty spirit

Jodis of Star Plus' show Nach Baliye 6 earlier gave awards to cricketers during IPL matches; now they will be seen attending the ODI matches between India and West Indies. Raju Shrivastav, Gurmeet Choudhary and Rithwik Dhanjani are a few who will be on the ground.

Keeping fit

Faisal Khan aka Pratap in Sony Entertainment Television's Bharat Ka Veer Putra—Maharana Pratap admires Bollywood superstar Hrithik Roshan. And as Hrithik gives importance to good health and fitness, Faisal too keeps his health and fitness in mind. Instead of workouts, as he's too young, he goes on bicycle rides when he gets a break from shoot.

Show time

This week on Yeh Hai Aashiqui there is a love story of a widow and a journalist. Aditi Gupta of Kis Desh Hai Mera Dil fame, will be seen as the widow and Abhishek Rawat of Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo fame, will be seen in a journalistic avatar.

Love-ly times

Karan Patel, best known as Robbie from Ekta Kapoor's show Kasturi, will be seen in Ekta's new show Ye Hai Mohabbatein. Excited about his new show, Karan talks to us about it.

What is your character like?

I play a businessman Raman Bhalla, who doesn't talk much. He is a divorcee, who has an adorable daughter Ruhi. His neighbour, Ishita, develops a strong attachment with Ruhi, which takes the story forward.

Other young actors shy away from playing dad on TV. What do you think about it?

I don't think so. For any actor, it is all about the character and whether the audiences accept them in the roles.

How does it feel to be back with Ekta?

Great, as she's been my mentor. My first break was with her and I think of Balaji as family. I am looking forward to the show's launch now.

What do you think about the 11 pm slot?

I think the late night slot hasn't been tapped. We have seen many shows, including Star Plus own shows airing then and even Ekta's Kahin Kisi Roz. I am sure the channel and producers have decided something.

Are you looking at films too?

Why not! Many actors manage to do television and films together. People today want to push their boundaries and achieve higher goals.

Usha plays cop

Known for her straightforward attitude and touted as the most popular villain of our television industry, the very adorable and veteran actress Usha Nadkarni will be seen as an inspector in this Sunday's episode of Zee TV's Bh Se Bhade at 8 pm.

Usha, who made a special place in the hearts of the viewers with her stern mother-in-law avatar in Pavitra Rishta, is reportedly extremely kicked about her upcoming cameo in Bh Se Bhade. On her role, the actor commented, "I like to experiment and do different roles. It's fun to play different characters. I want to offer variety to my audience. My character, inspector Usha Shinde, is amusing and hilarious. The exchanges that I have with Sarita Joshi (she plays Nani's character in the show) will leave the audiences in splits. The entire cast is awesome. I had lots of fun shooting with Deven, Sarita, Sucheta and Bhavna."

In this episode, the viewers will see inspector Usha Shinde (played by Usha Nadkarni), enter the show looking for a child kidnapper in the park. Seeing Nani (Sarita Joshi) sitting on her wheelchair giving away chocolates to kids, inspector Usha zeroes down on Nani as the kidnapper. She takes Nani to jail and asks her about her gang leader. Nani, after having given up all attempts to prove her innocence, blurts out Bhade's name as her gang leader. 

Astro turf
p Khurrana

ARIES: The card 'The Devil' suggests that a relationship can be shaken and stirred. Finance for the purchase of a home or for renovation is likely to be approved. Tarot message: Don't forsake a new learning opportunity because of pride. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 56

TAURUS: Follow a good routine of exercise and diet to make sure you're keeping up to the mark with health matters. Focus on the little things that need to be done and stick to routines. Tarot message: Plan your life to better to avoid delays. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 27

GEMINI: You can have accidents simply because you forget to look before you leap. Do be careful with your financial situation. Students: bury your nose in books. Be logical in your thoughts. Tarot message: Work can pose certain minor difficulties. Lucky colour: Rainbow pastles. Magic number: 30

CANCER: Flattery, charm and a willingness to be bold will bring success. You should have little trouble gaining from others. An evening event can test your nerves. Tarot message: Your determination to succeed will pay dividends. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 50

LEO: This is a great day for socialising once you get going. You can get invited to a lavish event that makes you feel self-conscious. Don't worry about your clothes not being flashy enough. Do your best. Tarot message: Learn to accept responsibility for yourself and others. Lucky colour: Silver-grey. Magic number: 44 

VIRGO: The card 'Ten of Pentacles' promises self-confidence, so trust your instincts today. Opportunities to socialise and mix with people will put many choices in your path. Tarot message: Set events into motion. Lucky colour: Sea-green. Magic number: 35

LIBRA: Your earning power can kick into high gear, so be on the lookout for money-making opportunities. A connection with that special someone is worth pursuing no matter how difficult it is. Tarot message: Use your instinct to get into the top circle of power. Lucky colour: Deep-red. Magic number: 46

SCORPIO: A restless and irritable atmosphere can pervade in the morning. Avoid getting sidetracked or letting another's bad mood sully your day. Follow through on unfinished projects. Tarot message: Don't be dismissive of advice from youngsters. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 25

SAGITTARIUS: Stick to your work and avoid new territory because this is not the day for it. You can be easily influenced today. An imminent journey can put you in turmoil. Tarot message: Be articulate to prevent people from making to their own conclusions. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 39

CAPRICORN: An enthusiastic mood is encouraged by your card "The World". Nothing will seem too much and you are sure to help out those around you if you can. Be careful not to over-commit yourself. Tarot message: Do not transact in uncertain matters. Lucky colour: Sky blue. Magic number: 48

AQUARIUS: Thoroughness will be your key to success. Try to avoid getting caught up in conversations that divert you from your course. Otherwise, you can chat away the time you have for work. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Peacock-green. Magic number: 63

PISCES: Conflict between your private and professional life can test your abilities. Strong views on politics or the environment might entice you to get up and speak at a public forum. Don't be shy. Tarot message: Emphasise on spiritual needs. Lucky colour: Metallic grey. Magic number: 28

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is November 24...

Born on the 24th under the Sagittarius sign, 2014 will prove to be good for you. Family will be there by your side in whatever you may try your hand at. Keep a cool head and make use of any opportunity that comes your way. You will meet new friends; travel is also on the cards. Your financial position will be good. One way or the other, you'll gain a better rank in your career. This December you will be blessed you with mixed bag of results in almost all spheres of life. Some of you may suffer from coughs and colds or joint pains. Don't be shy; always speak up.

Positive colours: White, Sea-green, Cream, Light blue.

Select days: Friday, Thursday and Tuesday.

Favourable numbers: 3, 5, 6, 9.

Gems recommended: Diamond and Emerald.

Charity on birthday: Donate a gold ornament at the marriage of poor girl or wheat at a religious place.

You share your birthday with Katherine Heigl (full name Katherine Marie Heigl), who was born on November 24, 1978 in Washington, District of Columbia, USA. In 1992, she received a role in That Night, which was her first role in a movie. Since then she has appeared in films like My Father the Hero, Wish Upon A Star, Roswell, Grey's Anatomy, Side Effects and many others.





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