The voice goes viral
The social media has become an active platform to fight crimes against women. Following the Tarun Tejpal incident, campaigns, posts, tweets and blogs have sought justice for women... 
Jasmine Singh

Farhan Akhtar’s social campaign Mard, Men Against Rape and Discrimination.
Farhan Akhtar’s social campaign Mard, Men Against Rape and Discrimination.

The Red Brigade, a group of teenagers in Lucknow, patrol their local streets to protect women from sexual harassment.
ON GUARD: The Red Brigade, a group of teenagers in Lucknow, patrol their local streets to protect women from sexual harassment.

We had always maintained that our country has a fixation for either Bollywood or sports, in fact both. Off late, there is something new that has engulfed us, something that finds a place in all papers, news channels, social networking and micro-blogging sites —harassment against women.

The news of rape, eve-teasing and sexual assault have moved from the back pages to the front ones in the print. Despite this, the inflow of such incidents doesn't cease to decrease. Candlelight marches, slogan chanting; but when enough was just not enough, every single woman in India took on herself to fight this injustice.

The results were Facebook campaigns, posts, tweets and blogs asking for justice. Soon the social media became a platform to fight it out. Most recently, when the news of a young journalist with Tehelka accusing the founder and editor Tarun Tejpal of sexually assaulting her twice during an event came out, the virtual world took that on too. In India alone, there are many campaigns running on FB seeking justice for women and also quite a few organisations doing the same.

Viral affect

Social networking sites allow individuals to voice their opinion, their anger and express sadness. Not everyone can take part in a candlelight march or file a PIL; the best is shouting out on a platform where the world can hear you. Online sites like crowdvoice.org speak up against rape, sexual harassment and abuse against women. The 50 Million missing campaign, a fund-free grassroots global campaign, tries to end genocide in India while http://genderbytes.wordpress.com highlights runs a campaign asking people to talk about sexual harassment against women at work.

Reema Prasher, a designer from Ludhiana, along with her friends makes it a point to express her views on social networking sites that are fighting for women. "How do I express my anger? The only way is to take it out on a social networking site."

No discrimination

While most people have realised dharnas are no good, they grab the available option to voice their opinions — social networking sites. So much so that celebrities like Farhan Akhtar started a social campaign Mard, Men Against Rape and Discrimination. The campaign aims to raise social awareness against rape and discrimination of women.

Just about every women in India changed her Facebook status to 'I am a woman on strike, are you?'

They screamed aloud, dropped posts and tweeted their heart out. Simarjeet Kaur Atwal, a student of Punjabi literature in Chandigarh, supported one of the biggest campaigns run on FB - Scream. "It is an anti-eve-teasing campaign initiated by third-year mass media students of St. Andrew's College. I asked almost 2,300 friends on FB to join the campaign." Simarjeet requested all her male and female friends to click pictures of people whom they saw indulging in eve-teasing, which she would thereafter forward on to the local police website. "We need to teach them a lesson, I cannot go out reprimanding anyone who does that; the best I can do is to put these 'faces' on a social networking site so that everyone can see them and loathe them."

Fight on

Those who thought talking would do little to fight injustice against women collaborated through organisations and are fighting it out on an everyday basis. Sampat Pal's Gulaabi Gang working in the Banda District of Uttar Pradesh in Northern India, accosts male offenders and prevails upon them to see reason. Those who wouldn't listen or the serious offenders are publicly shamed. Sometimes the women resorted to their lathis, if the men used force. In another group in the outskirts of Lucknow, teenage girls called The Red Brigade patrol their local streets protecting women and girls from sexual harassment. They dress up in red-black salwar kameez and target males who dare tease any girl.

On similar lines, Blank Noise, a community project, seeks to confront street harassment in India. The project, initiated by Jasmeen Patheja in August 2003, has spread out to many cities in India. Following the gang-rape incident of Delhi, the project started a Safe City Pledge urging citizens to pledge ways in which they can make cities safer for women. Amardeep Singha, a city-based businessman, talks about the popularity of Pink Chaddi Campaign launched by a group of Pub-Going, Loose and Forward Women in February 2009. "Despite the hullabaloo about the campaign, I read about how the issue was trivialised. In fact, this campaign's Facebook group began to be attacked by trolls so it eventually broke down. Even after it was renamed, the attacks continued despite appeals to Facebook's support department for help. Finally, Facebook had to disable the account of the group's administrator and access to the group."

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Single thought
Every listener may not prefer an album of songs by one artist. Therefore, the trend of launching singles is well and truly in... 
Amarjot Kaur

In the new era of the ever-evolving music industry, a stark observation is the emergence of 'singles'. Years ago, a hit song was usually accompanied by a gold or platinum album and multiple hits meant multi-platinum albums. Trends change though and there is no linear progression.

Just like fashion, music trends too come around. According to Joel Freimark, the author of The Music Obsessive's Guide to life, around 1948, the long-play record (LP) began to emerge as a standard format within the music industry and in less than twenty years, it had almost completely replaced the singles-based market that had dominated for long. Jerry Lee Lewis to Chuck Berry to John Lee Hooker to Elvis Presley, all made their names as singles' artists; they remain some of the highly reverred figures in the history of music till date. Here's checking out what artists from the region and famous musicians have to say about the issue.

Remo, Ashok Masti, Adamya Sharma and Mitika Kanwar.
voice over: (L-R) Remo, Ashok Masti, Adamya Sharma and Mitika Kanwar.

Slow & steady

Chandigarh-based musicians Adamya Sharma and Mitika Kanwar, who released with their debut single, Duur reh key, this month say, "We opted to release a single because we are new artists; people don't really have much reason to listen to us. Most of them buy albums because they like the artist and we want to win their liking. Also, who has the luxury of time to listen to ten songs in an album?" Jasleen Aulakh, who released a couple of singles, including Tripping on a dream, Chamba cover before launching an album, Polly's Diary, says, "It's better to release singles first and then come up with an album because people do not have the patience to listen to new artists or a huge list of songs that an album contains. Singles provide an artist with a ready audience and even financially, it's a viable option."

Rohit Joshi of the band Swastik, who released the singles, Kuch bhi Karlo and Daaru, on the internet, says, "For any musician, it is important to generate impact. Also, you cannot possibly promote seven-eight songs in an album; it's easier to promote one song, thus the choice."

Star speak

Ashok Masti, popular Punjabi musician, says, "These days we don't have a choice. Making one album and all its videos takes a toll on the artist. Production companies ask the artist to make both, the song and its video, which is financially cumbersome. Moreover, with the download facility that the Internet equips the audience with leaves little scope of return for an artist; copyright is also an issue." Ashok says that he is coming up with a single featuring Badshah. "These days nobody listens to eight tracks that an album has to offer, so a single is the best possible option. It keeps the artist visible too."

Singer Remo Fernandes shares, "I released the first-ever single on the internet in the year 2000 and it was called Cyber Viber. I think singles are a very good way to preserve the timeliness of a song and I especially make songs on topical issues; for instance the one that I made during the Anna Hazare movement. Now if I had waited for an album, it would have taken ages," he quips.

Ishq Bector, Indo-Canadian singer, songwriter, producer and Hip Hop artist, adds, "I've launched three albums so far and they help an artist connect with their audience while singles are completely for commercial consumption; they do not truly reveal an artist's creativity. Albums, on the other hand, provide for a judicious mix of both, commercial and creative songs."

amarjot@tribunemail.com

fashion funda
Sheer for the summer
Ashima Batish

Models showcase Jenjum Gadi’s creations.
Models showcase Jenjum Gadi’s creations.

Mentored by Rohit Bal, Jenjum Gadi is known to have introduced his territorial influences in his designs. His collection for this spring summer makes it even more evident, in which he has used beetle and flower prints. He adds that next year, nature-inspired prints will be popular, add to it magic of sheer and you are good to go for summer. Jenjum shares more on fashion….

What's in

Anything made of sheer fabric will be very popular in the next summer. Peek-a-boo dresses, tops, tunics, even suits that reveal some, hide some will be a trend March onwards. Cropped tops will be carried forward from the last season to be aptly teamed up with skirts or trousers.

What's out

High waist trousers or skirts will be done away with. The season will introduce several experiments, so simper cuts and silhouettes will go out of fashion as well. This season, we had an over dose of neons, so it's time we gave ourselves a break and opt for basic and pastel shades.

Colour count

Black and white will be the most popular colour combination in the summer. If you aren't fond of the classic pairing, try a solid colour with white, for example, a red palazzo with white shirt or a green cropped top with white shorts.

Party trends

It's always important to understand your body and then dress up accordingly. Also, try getting experimental in the season. Why wear plain clothes, use drapes to add layers. Men should wear prints in the next season, be it a printed shirt, trouser or a summer jacket.

Leading in design

It has to be Elie Saab internationally and in India, I find Rohit Bal the best. His ideas, detailing and designs never fail to raise the bar. After all these years also, he comes up with a fresh, unique idea every season.

Dressed to the nines

There is no denying the fact that Sonam Kapoor dresses up well but the clear winner is Kangana Ranaut. She experiments like no other in the industry. She looks edgy in whatever she wears and carries off everything well. She is the fashion icon of India, who doesn't follow trends but pronounce them others to follow.

On the fashion industry

We are enjoying international recognition, where in celebrities abroad want to wear clothes by Indian designers. We are growing with each season, each year and the fashion weeks are helping in the cause.

it’s rocking
Wake-up call

A song by Swedish DJ and music producer Avicii, Wake Me Up features American soul singer Aloe Blacc on vocals and Mike Einziger on acoustic guitar from Incubus' is making a buzz this season. It was released in June as the first single from Avicii's full-length debut studio album, True, which was released in September this year. The song achieved critical and commercial success internationally, peaking at number one in much of Europe. The song has been described as a summer anthem.

Good beat

I really love the song, especially the beats. I totally love the song. Also, when it comes to EDM, the idea is to create the kind of song that makes you groove. This one really works for me.

Lavnika Kashyap, student

Energetic feel

I think it's an amazing song and the reason why it really works for me is because it has a kind of energy to it. I love the song and I have been playing in my cars for a long time.

Nalin Mishra, student

Peppy note

I love the song. It's energetic and it has the kind of beat that one can dance to any minute. I love it.

Rahul Sethi, student

— As told to Amarjot Kaur

Master Chef
Orbs of gold!
Kandla Nijhowne

When we buy a frozen package of almost anything, we mentally label it "convenience-food". These ready-to-eat morsels really are that. But this homemade product will be economical, more tasty and moreover, you will know what went into it was not floury fillers. Voila! I bring you cheese balls. A few hours of work will enable you to prepare these orbs of gold, then foil-wrap and tuck them away in several little parcels. Trust me. Make a double batch, or a triple one, and later, enjoy the benefit of your hard work.

Method

Boil, peel and mash the potatoes. Cut the cheese into sugar-cube sized squares, about 12-14 of them. Thinly slice the spring onion and its green shoots. Use one teaspoon of oil and saute the peas and spring onion. Remove in to a wide bowl and add the mashed potatoes. Add the ketchup and season with salt and pepper. Divide the mixture into 12-14 equal portions. Shape each portion into a sphere and push a piece of mozzarella into its centre, covering it from all sides with the mash. Lay out the spheres on to a tray and slide it into the fridge to chill. Something between five and twenty minutes will firm up the mixture and give it stability. Make a thin batter with the cornflour and a little water. Spread the breadcrumbs on a plate, ready for the next step. Dip every ball in the cornflour slurry, then roll it in the crumbs till well covered. Arrange the orbs on a tray as you make them. At this point, separate out what you may want to fry immediately. The rest of the cheese balls can be frozen on the tray for 30-40 minutes. Once firm, you can transfer them into a ziplock bag and return them to the freezer compartment.

Note: You can make a chicken version of these orbs too. Lightly steam minced chicken, squeeze out excess liquid and substitute for the potatoes. You may need a sprinkling of fresh breadcrumbs in this mix. You may substitute the peas with corn kernels. A dash of dried herbs or a glug of Tabasco is also lends a zingy element!

(Kandla is a Chandigarh-based culinary expert)

Gooey-centered cheese balls

  • 3 large potatoes
  • ½ cup peas
  • 1 spring onion
  • 1½ tbsp tomato ketchup
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp cornflour
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 250-300 gm mozzarella cheese
  • Oil for frying

Par Excellence
Grip it right
Jesse Grewal

The position of the club face at impact has the biggest influence in determining the direction the ball flies. This has been proved by the Trackman and other gadget using advanced technology to chart the path, angle of approach, club face position and speed at impact. The club face at impact must be square which means it must point at the intended target. If the club face is square at address then it can only change if one or all three of the following happen -

  • An incorrect grip
  • An excessively cupped or bowed position of the left wrist at the top of the backswing (for right handed golfers).
  • A lack of release or an early release.

The grip is probably the most important part of golf and as an old saying goes - a common factor in most great golfers is a good grip. For a beginner, most of their initial time should be spent in getting the grip correct as it is very difficult to change the grip once it becomes a habit. Most teaching professionals do not try and change the grip as it becomes very uncomfortable to the pupil. But if the ball flight is being affected by the wrong position of the club face at impact any compensation created by a change of the swing would not be repeatable. Therefore, the grip must be corrected if it is leading to a fault in the ball flight.

There are numerous ways of finding the correct grip. My preference is to have a short thumb and have both the index fingers well extended. To do this pinch the upper part of both thumbs to the side of each hand (picture 1). Extend your fingers and this would result in the last digit of the thumb flaring out a little but having no gap at the base. Now place the left hand on the grip of the club. The thumb would be slightly to the right of the centre of the grip (picture 2). This position of the thumb brings the thumb directly under the club at the top of the backswing and creates the correct position of the left wrist. When the left thumb is placed on the centre of the grip as recommended by some, the position of the thumb is not directly under the club at the top of the backswing and leads to errors. The thumb being right of centre also produces a slightly stronger grip - 2 to 3 knuckles are visible of the left hand at address with the 'v' pointing approximately to the right shoulder. As the speed of the club head at impact has increased with the increase in the length of the club over the years, a stronger grip is required to square up the club at impact.

Now place the right hand on the grip. Ensure that the thumb maintains its pinched position. The fleshy part at the base of the right thumb would sit on the left thumb. The 'v' formed would point to the right ear and the index finger would be below the right thumb on the club (picture 3). This extended position of the index finger is called the trigger and is a source of power and control.

The correct placement of the hands is more important than the type of grip one takes-the overlap, interlock or ten finger.

(Grewal has coached several national champions and professionals apart from being coach of the Indian golf team for the Eisenhower Cup (World Cup) in 2008. He is currently the Director of National Golf Academy of India and CGA Hero Honda Golf Academy. If you have any queries get in touch with him at parexcellence@tribunemail.com)

Ethnic choice

With the launch of Libaas in Chandigarh it is sure to create a wave of fashion in the City Beautiful.

Celebrating the meeting of myriad cultures with stunning Indian designs, the store offers you an array of traditional Indian designs to choose from. Exuding an air of grace, royalty and feminity, it provides a single platform catering to designer wear for both the classes and masses. The designer range is available at affordable prices varying from Rs 1000 to Rs 40,000.

A partnership between two young entrepreneurs, Gaurav Goyal, owner of SGA Real Estates P. Ltd. Chandigarh and Aman Arora, owner of Kalamandir, the newly opened store is an epitome of grandeur.

Housing the designer sarees, suits, cocktail dresses, party lehengas, winter suits, shawls, phulkaris for women, the store also provides cloth material from Raymonds, Reid n Taylor and OCM.

'Let your attire talk--the tagline says it all. When asked about the tagline, Gaurav said "I have chosen something which I feel is a thought of each and every being today, who want his clothes to be exclusive." — TNS

star track
Missing the Jackpot

The censor board has axed Eggjactly from being used in Sunny Leone starrer Jackpot. However the Indo-Canadian adult film star says it is a family film and doesn't "require censorship".

The 32-year-old, who has shot some bold scenes for the movie, admits that it's censor board's job to see what's suitable for young adults to watch.

At the same time, she feels that Jackpot "is not an A-certificate movie. So, they have to be really careful on what the subject matter is."

"But I don't think there is anything in the movie that requires censorship. It's a very nice family movie that everyone can watch," added the actress who entered Bollywood with erotic thriller Jism 2.

Meanwhile, director Kaizad Gustad is upset with the censor board for banning Eggjactly, by Javed Jaffrey. “It's unnecessary. I don't understand why the song has been banned — it's funny and there is humour in it. It is not anything personal it is about the whole country. He (Javed) has not attacked any one person," Gustad said.

"The censor board should have some sense of humour. It's just a funny song and he has not offended anybody. He has been very careful to avoid personal attacks," Gustad added.

The film's actor-producer Sachiin Joshi feels he is being targeted. "I seriously think it's somebody's ploy against me and I am being targeted," he said reacting to the ban on the song. Jackpot has been shot in Goa and also stars Naseeruddin Shah. It hits theatres December 13. — IANS

Stork’s visiting Heidi

Heidi Klum is expecting her first child with her bodyguard boyfriend, Martin Kristen, according to reports. A publisher claimed that the 40-year-old model’s personal trainer, David Kirsch was the source of the leak.

Kirsch, after letting the slip, said that Klum is still training, although not as intensively as before.

Klum, who has four children from her previous relationships, has been dating her bodyguard since September 2012. — ANI

I believe in small-budget films: Shoojit Sircar

Shoojit Sircar, known for his different sensibilities and filmmaking techniques, thinks that he cannot handle subjects like Dabangg and Krrish as he believes in making small-budget films that intend to both entertain and inform.

He has so far made just four films and only three of them have been released. If his debut movie Yahaan in 2005 was a love story set in troubled Kashmir and he managed to carve a niche for himself with it, his second film - Amitabh Bachchan starrer Shoebite focussing on a 60-year plus man who sets out on a journey of self-discovery — still languishes in the box.

In 2012, Sircar proved his mettle with Vicky Donor, a light-hearted drama revolving on the subject of sperm donation. It was followed by the highly acclaimed Madras Cafe — a gritty drama starring John Abraham based on the Sri Lankan conflict in the 1980s — which strengthened his position as a filmmaker.

Talking about his kind of films in an interview, Sircar said: "I believe in small budget films. I don't believe in spending on a lot of dancers."

"I believe in good cinema, but that doesn't mean you can't make spectacles — you can make Dabangg and Krrish. But the kind of cinema I believe in is called infotainment. I am not meant for Dabangg or Krrish kind of films," he added.

He said that if his film "engages the audience for two hours and if the audience takes home something", it makes him "happy".

Sircar, currently busy with his production venture Running Shaadi.com. — IANS

Playing the role model

Selena Gomez has confessed that she is obsessed with her 5-month-old sister, Gracie. According to a publication, the 21-year-old singer said that she has previously had the responsibility to be a role model for girls but now that she has a little sister of your own, she kinds of think it is legit.

Gomez also revealed plans to return to acting as a career once she's completed her Stars Dance tour. — ANI

$24,000 gift for Miley from father

Miley Cyrus' father Billy Ray Cyrus spent a whopping $24,000 to get three-wheeler motorcyle for her as her birthday gift.

Cyrus, who celebrated her 21st birthday recently, got a personalised 2013 Can Am Spyder motorcycle from Billy.

The bonnet of the vehicle has Miley's initials 'MC' etched on it. — IANS

No comparisons please!

Kangana Ranaut makes many quirky fashion statements, and her style is sometimes also compared to that of international singer Lady Gaga. However, the Bollywood actress says comparison is not right.

Gaga is known worldwide for her fashion antics.

"Comparisons keep happening. I don't think I should be compared with Lady Gaga because I am an actress and she is a pop star," the 26-year-old said in an interview.

"But every woman today is very powerful when it comes to fashion, be it Miley Cyrus or Lady Gaga — all of them are experimenting with their looks. I think in India also we should do a lot more of these looks and clothes and make women look very strong," Kangana added.

Big buy

Celebrity couple David and Victoria Beckham have splurged 40 million pounds on getting a palatial mansion.

Their newly acquired mansion is four-storey, detached period home in West London. The house will include rooms for hairdressing, manicures and make-up, as well as separate rooms for Victoria's show collection.

Their children - Brooklyn, 14, Romeo, 11, Cruz, 8 and daughter Harper, 2 — will take over the second floor of the house. There is an underground garage where David can keep his fleet of cars. — IANS

Much in love

Angelina Jolie is reportedly shelling out a whopping 12.2 million pounds to buy beau Brad Pitt a heart-shaped island for his 50th birthday. The 38-year-old actress was particularly excited after discovering the island’s two homes were designed by Pitt’s favourite architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

A source said that as soon as the Girl, Interrupted star heard the island was on the market, she arranged a viewing and was really impressed with it. The insider said that the house is perfect for romantic getaways or as a family retreat, as its very private, asserting that Jolie knows that the island’s heart shape will mean much to the Fight Club star.

The exclusive 11-acre Petra - has a helicopter pad — is off the US coast 50 miles north of New York City and the cottage on it was put up in 1950, nine years before Wright’s death, while the main house was built in 2008 from a Wright plan and is one of his most spectacular designs. — ANI

chatter box
Couple of problems
While all of them look like they are made for each other onscreen, not every couple gets along with each other off screen too. We take a look at some of the small screen pairs who don't get along with each other

Sanaya Irani and Farhan Khan
Farhan Khan felt Sanaya Irani was too starry for him and this lead to altercation in this Chacnchan's lead pair. His attitude didn't sit well with her, so ultimately, he opted out of the show.

Paridhi Sharma and Rajat Tokas
Rajat Tokas claims to stay in the character and does not keep in touch with anyone on the sets once he's done with work. Perhaps this is the reason why he is not friendly with his Jodha-Akbar co-star, Paridhi Sharma. She too is married and does not mind him being aloof.

Seema Mishra and Vivian Dsena
Seema Mishra plays the role of Deepali Madhubala, who flirts with RK (Vivian Dsena). But after being friendly for a while, things went wrong between them and the two stopped talking to each other.

Hina Khan and Karan 
They have been ruling the hearts of the audience as a lovey-dovey pair, Akshara and Naitik, in the show Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai. However, the two do not talk much off screen though they are professional enough to maintain a cordial stance in public.

Ankita Sharma and Navi Bhangu
They played star-crossed lovers in the show, Amrit Manthan, but found it tough to be friends on sets. Apparently, Navi Bhangu's attitude rubbed people the wrong way and that's why Ankita was not friendly with him.

Toral Rasputra and Siddharth Shukla
These actors give convincing takes on their show, Balika Vadhu, while playing the much in love couple, Anandi and Shiv, but once the shot is canned they go their own ways.

Rati Pandey and Sumit Vats
She was an experienced actor while he a newcomer in the show, Hitler Didi. Yet the reserve Rati did not break the ice with Sumit.

From negative to positive

Last seen as Khushi in Sasural Simar Ka, Jyotsna Chandola is in the news again for being one of the lead actors in Sahara One Television's new thriller, Haunted Nights-Kaun Hai Woh. In the show, which is based on black magic, Jyotsna will be seen playing a positive role. To look convincing for the role of Bhakti, Jyotsna Chandola is working hard these days. She talks about the show and much more to Life+Style.

What is the concept of this show?

The concept of Haunted Nights-Kaun Hai Woh, is based on a battle between good and evil. The story revolves around the lives of Kunal and Bhakti, who are brought together by destiny, but have to go through various ordeals till they are united for ever.

What promoted you to be a part of the show?

I had not played the character of Bhakti before, but I enjoy working in the show. I got immense popularity as Khushi in Sasural Simar Ka, but Bhakti is one of my best roles.

How did you land in the show?

I auditioned for the negative role, but when I read about the positive lead role, I requested the production house to consider me for the Bhakti's character. I auditioned for the same and was selected thereafter.

How does it feel like to bag the main lead?

It's a lot of responsibility to do justice to the character of Bhakti. It is a very challenging role and I am looking forward to this.

What is the USP of the show?

The show has much horror and spine chilling moments. The subject of this social thriller will catch the fancy of the viewers.

What response you have received so far?

I have received a very good response from viewers, who loved my role. — Dharam Pal

Right pose

Rati Pandey, Krystle D'Souza and Adaa Khan, recently left for a TV calendar shoot in Malaysia. They have been posing for the calendar for three years now.

Astro turf
P. Khurrana

ARIES: Around the end of the day, your intuitive and perceptive skills would be sharp and you will be unusually sensitive to others. This perceptiveness may also heighten your interest in astrology and myths. Tarot message: Let things run their course. Lucky colour: Deep red Lucky number: 25

TAURUS: With the presence of Saturn in your chart, you would need to work on your plans for investing and saving as much as possible. Your love life would be quite interesting and you may come in touch with an old love. Tarot message: Avoid criticising or judging others. Lucky colour: Purple Lucky number: 46

GEMINI: Be patient with people around you. There may be times when you feel unloved and neglected; however, it will only be temporary. Both at home and with friends, exercise affection and serenity. Tarot message: Avoid situations that may turn nasty. Lucky colour: Saffron Lucky number: 57

CANCER: Be attentive and careful at work, as it will affect your overall career. Let all your latent talent and skill shine. Business people may plan to diversify or expand in order to increase commitment and profits. Tarot message: Focus on professional changes. Lucky colour: Pale yellow Lucky number: 26

LEO: There would be an increase in confidence and energy at work. Most of you would also start planning your career. Love and romance would light up your life, bringing much joy. Tarot message: Do not to give money to strangers. Lucky colour: Crimson Lucky number: 41

VIRGO: Finances and spending would be the focus today. There may be some splurging due to the festive season and a sudden windfall may surprise some of you. Health needs attention. Tarot message: Do not leave things up to chance. Lucky colour: Aqua Lucky number: 62

LIBRA: The focus of the day would be on your ability to deal with more than one thing at a time. It is vital that you plan everything and deal with any hurdles that may come your way, either at work or in your personal life. Tarot message: Strive for perfection at work. Lucky colour: Rainbow pastels Lucky number: 60

SCORPIO: This would be quite an uplifting and inspiring day. You would be able to realise your goals for the future and would start working towards them in full earnest. Social and familial bonds would become stronger. Tarot message: Take no chances despite assurances. Lucky colour: Ebony Lucky number: 28

SAGITTARIUS: Take care of your health and exercise caution while driving, since you may be prone to mishaps. Some of you may decide to take some concrete action in order to improve your relationships. Tarot message: Allow a sick situation blow over before starting new. Lucky colour: Forest green Lucky number: 33

CAPRICORN: Some of you may have overshot your budgets in the past few days due to celebrations, so now would be a good time to be prudent. Domestic affairs would be calm; however, you may feel overburdened. Tarot message: Be honest to your desires. Lucky colour: Lotus pink Lucky number: 36

AQUARIUS: Your instincts and your reactions would be relatively fast today and as a result, you would be able to make the most of situations. Deal with any pending tasks at work. Keep an eye on your health. Tarot message: Avoid being hurried and over anxious. Lucky colour: Black Lucky number: 47

PISCES: Although you are driven and focused on your goals, it is also important that you avoid being controlling and critical of team members and partners. This may lead to arguments and undue stress. Tarot message: Learn to accept responsibility. Lucky colour: Grey Lucky number: 58

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is November 26...

Married couples will have more understanding for each other and there might be some good news awaiting them. Your birth on the 26 shows this you are practical and realistic, often seeking material satisfaction. In 2014 you'll be audacious and won't be afraid of anything. Your loved one will show you the intensity of his or her feelings without asking for anything in exchange.

Instructions will be signalled loud and clear. You will know the time for the next move. Finance is fair. Those in job should start thinking about their responsibilities now. Be prepared to face a few small difficulties at work. Help from some unexpected source comes as a great and pleasant surprise. You will be in good health. Love will bloom.

Positive Colours: Dark blue, dark grey, purple, cyan

Select days: Saturday, Wednesday and Friday

Favourable numbers: 4, 5, 6 and 8

Gems recommended: Sapphire, chalcedony and emerald

Charity on birthday: Offer Sindhoor on idol of Hanuman Ji and donate saffron coloured winter clothes to saints.

You share you birthday with Arjun Rampal [November 26, 1972], who has done several Bollywood film and is actively involved in charity, including sponsoring many children in an orphanage. Rampal is goaded by number 8 and 3. The year 2015 will bring laurels to him.





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