Winter wows
Dressing up for the big night gives jitters anyhow; add to that the cold season… some tips on how to carry an exquisite look that saves you from the chill too
Mona

Drape in style: A model supporting Pallavi Jaikishan's design during Aamby Valley India Bridal Fashion
Drape in style: A model supporting Pallavi Jaikishan's design during Aamby Valley India Bridal Fashion. Photo: AFP

Fabric call: A heavy velvet lehanga from Rupam Kaur Grewal
Fabric call: A heavy velvet lehanga from Rupam Kaur Grewal

Wedding season is on the door as is the winter chill. If what to wear on a winter wedding night is on your mind, the ever growing fashion shows and the number of designers have taken up the task to dress you up to nines. No more spoiling the rich, elegant sari with a sweater on top, there are a number of options to look gorgeous and stay warm! Here's how to score high on fashion meter and make most of the season.

Right from the fabrics to styling, there are countless ways to hot up the ensemble. Ritu Kochhar, corporate director, INIFD, makes a case to add bandi to your ensemble. "Traditionally a garment for men in Rajasthan, bandi has found its way in women's ethnic wear. Get one for yourself in the wedding season ala Anita Dongre's Jaipur collection. It keeps you warm and takes your fashionista mark a few notches up!" When it comes to winter fabrics, Ritu is all for brocade and pure silk. She shares another of her smart move, "Coordinate your pashmina shawl with your ethnic wear, get the similar work done and there you are! All set to rock the winter wedding."

For the bride and would-be bride, winter or summer, style comes first. "However, a skilful and stylish draping of a heavy duppata can save one from winter's fury," shares Babi Grewal, who has used velvet and lots and lots of it in the lehengas and suits for her wedding collection. With silk and brocade thrown in, she is doing lots of achkan style suits with a bandgala for women. "They look pretty and keep you snug," says the designer.

Rupam Kaur Grewal's Jaamavar minx salwars are much in demand at Elante for not only do they keep you comfortable at open venues but also make a super style statement.

Rupam has used lots of raw silk and velvet for her winter collection in salwars. And it is not just Rupam's salwars and palazzos that rule this season, she has added a bit of bling on shawls too with zardosi work. "Using the suitable fabrics for the season, we are using loads of solid colours. Orange hues rule, with royal blue a close second and of course, the reds and pinks that are the popular wedding colours," says Rupam.

Keeping the designer wear feasible during harsh winter in North, designers at Diva'ni, have evolved an array of stylish options. Parinita Saluja, head designer, Diva'ni shares some trendy tips, "You can team up beautiful jackets made of fabrics like silk and brocade embroidered with Parsi gara work over the sarees, kalidaars and suits maintaining the sensuous look. Capes made of zari or with ethnic motifs work well over dresses."

Diva'ni, that you can easily access online, also has a range of beautiful stoles made of brocade and zari which go very well with kanjivarams. Their handcrafted shawls with ethnic embellishments work very well with fusion dresses.

So, if you are yet to buy your dress for friend's or friend's friend's wedding, keep in mind three important factors - fabric, colour and styling…have fun with your dress too!

mona@tribunemail.com

Go for…

  • Velvet, silk, brocade
  • Stylish long silk jackets
  • Short, smart, silk bandis
  • A heavy duppatta draped well
  • Capes made of zari or with ethnic motifs

Two’s company
Jasmine Singh

This is one is for the basic love of music or let's say for the basic love of things. BLOT audiovisual performers Gaurav Malaker and Avinash Kumar are pulled to Chandigarh for the same 'love'. Avinash is 34-year-old, designer, digital artist, VJ, installation designer, proposal writer while and Gaurav Malaker, 28, studied law but chose music, music production, DJing and record label management.

The duo dropped by for the Kingfisher Ultra SOUL FLYP 12 city tour. The tour that kick started in Mumbai has now hit Chandigarh.

BLOT is an audiovisual performance, an acronym for the Basic Love of Things, it is a multidisciplinary project helmed by Gaurav and Avinash and supported by a network of artists. The focus of the band is to create atypical club and experiences.

How did concept of Blot come into play?

The name itself came about when we were discussing the sort of people we want to work with is - those who have a "Basic Love Of Things". It all started with a small party we hosted at our old place in 2007.

Technology has its major role to play in music production, does it only adds or hinders in some way the creation process. And what is the software that you use?

Our work is extremely interconnected to technology, whether its digital or hardware based, and this applies to both music and visuals. It's also an almost infinite search for more gear, but the thing not to forget is that these are tools to express yourself with, and don't replace your own mental and emotional faculties. Technology hinders people who forget that fact, while it amplifies the expressions and intent of those who work in a personal synergy with it.

Could you share the most memorable gig of yours?

Our first gigs in Berlin in 2010 were great, especially one massive underground party inside an abandoned beer brewery. These gigs were real eye openers for us and also to be accepted whole heartedly by people in the Mecca of electronic music was a good feeling.

How much of your work is preplanned and how much of it you do live?

There are prepared aspects to the live performance such as producing content, researching audio and visual samples, editing and preparing modules of content. What is not prepared is the manner in which all hundreds of audiovisual modules come together and are composed at the gig. This part of it is completely improvised always, and that lends a fresh and raw experience to well producer content. We prepare installations in advance since that required a lot of tangible materials.

Direct dil se
Music director, composer, lyricist Anand Raj Anand goes into the depth of creating music for action films in Bollywood
Jasmine Singh

Music, it comes straight from the heart. And a romantic track that too comes from the deepest crevices of the gooey organ. But a track for an action film….now, how can this be worked on? A celebrated singer, music director, composer and lyricist, all packed in one finds an answer to this.

After a successful run with Singh Saab The Great, Anand Raj Anand shares, "The great lyricist Anand Bakshi once told me that a romantic song stems from emotions and feelings, and if you have to create music for an action film then it means double work since the music has to match up and lift the movie. This answers the question how difficult it is to make music for action films."

From a family business in jewellery; to finding a man in a train who would introduce him to the right kind of people; to convincing Bollywood that he can make a space for himself amidst the top musicians, Anand Raj Anand has taken a long road. "I pleaded with my father to give me three months to prove myself, and if I couldn't, I would come back," he smiles. Of course, he never went back. The multifaceted man went on to sing, compose and give lyrics for various movies, Double Dhamaal, Agneepath, No problem, Welcome, Shootout at Lokhandwala and more.

"Someone told me long time back when I came looking to release my private album that I should zero in on one thing that I want to do - be a composer, a lyricist or a singer. I just loved music, it is my passion, so I am involved in all aspects of music," adds Anand Raj who likes to take a long walk down the memory lane once a while.

Riyaaz gets an all together different feel with him. "Whenever I sing songs for the producer to listen once or the actor, it is like a riyaaz for me. There is no special routine otherwise," he adds.

Anand Raj will be soon heard in the films Kaante 2, and more. "I would however like to work with Imtiaz Ali and want Priyanka to pick my song."

the ‘in’ side
Snug up your home
Renu Soni

With the cold weather easing its way into our homes this winter, you don't always have to rely on heaters to warm you up. It's all about introducing cosy, soft and comfortable textures and warm hues.

Glow of firelight

Aah… the roaring wood fire crackling at the heart of the house - what bliss! Electric, gas or of course natural, the warmth infused ambience cannot get any better with one of these. If you aren't quite lucky enough to have your own fireplace, then enjoy the flickering flame of candles in unique and eye catching holders and lanterns placed strategically here and there.

Cover the floors

Our summer-friendly floors turn hostile providing zero respite from the winter chill. Switch to area rugs to give your feet a warmer and inviting feel. Though patterned area rugs can be purchased, regular carpeting can also be cut into custom size and the edges bound to make inexpensive area rugs in any size and colour you desire.

Insulate against chills

It's not just the opening and shutting of your entry door allowing that nip in the air to creep into your home. A lot of us have teak window and door frames. No matter how well your wood is seasoned before installation, you'll find with the course of time, expansion and contraction will cause irregularities in the fitting of your doors and windows. In order to overcome this, you can use a self adhesive tape available from your local hardware store. For gaps under the door, draught excluder strips are your best bet. Insulate in every possible manner and add some window drapes and blinds to reduce the loss of heat. Not only will your efforts allow you to enjoy a warmer winter, they will reduce your energy bill big time!

Bringing in nature

This winter make your home more season appropriate by bringing in nature. Logs and pine cones are great inexpensive accessories and with a little creativity, can transform into eye catching accents. For example, pine cones can be used to decorate a dining table, platters, vases and candle stands, while chunks of logs belong in wicker baskets. If these are not quite to your liking, then add a bit of natural freshness with flowers and organic green hues. And please open up the curtains and allow that cheering and uplifting sunlight to stream in.

It makes scents

Fill your home with the warm scents of winter - it goes a long way in creating the perfect atmosphere. Bergamont, sandalwood and cedar for the more woody aroma or the traditional festive scents of apple, cinnamon, pine or bayberry. Candles, diffusers, food and scented sprays are a few of the many alternatives for adding soothing scents to your space.

Fluffy cushions

Cushions are a great way of adding colour, variety and style to a room. Choose a cute, vintage looking owl or go for a cable knit which is big this season. Modern quilted cushions and embroidered, printed, plain and patterned cushions in silk, and velvet fabrics will add instant warmth and class.

Throw me one

Set cosy warm throws near chairs and sofas. These not only offer lovely colour or pattern, but they will be close at hand to snuggle around chilly knees and feet. Throws are also a wonderful addition to bedrooms. Sheepskin, faux fur, chenille, wool or even velvet can add to your textile layering. If you are feeling really indulgent then go for a lovely cashmere throw. Stuff your couch with additional throw pillows and make sure that your home exudes visual warmth as well.

All you need now is a hot cup of chai, gatchak and some fluffy pj's!

(Soni is a Chandigarh-based interior decorator)

pet passion
From Tsar’s land
Manpriya Singh

Sikander Singh A rare breed is truly the neighbour's envy and owner's pride. The fact that Alex is the cynosure of all eyes only makes the master swell with joy. There is a gleam in the eye and each query calls for a conversation. Sikander Singh is used to initial questions on his 3-year-old borzoi, named after none other than Alexander the Great. Shares the 28-year-old, "It's a hunting breed and Alex has been imported from Russia." The mystery element is perhaps heightened when he pegs the price at as much as Rs 20 lakh.

Are there any takers for the breed? "Oh yes, there are people who are ready and willing to spend just any amount," shares the Chandigarh-based professional breeder. "I always loved to have pets around. My first pet as a child was a Rotweiller and I first introduced this breed in '94 in the country."

Love me, love my dog

Speaking of which, there's a Rotweiller named Givo, too that shares space in the house.

The three-year-old is only as playful and as gentle as the people believe him to be. Shares Sikander, "That's just a perception and rather an untrue one. You see guards with gun. They are supposed to be ferocious too but do they go around shooting people all the time? It is the same with this breed." Sometimes names prop up just like that and it was pretty much the case with Givo. As for Alex, the hunting breed, contrary to his huge looks and long locks, is a docile creature. He adds, "They only chase anything running and hunt it down. It could be a polythene bag or a ball, anything. But otherwise they are very docile dogs." Hard to believe as that might be but the claim sounds true once you warm up to their softest fur and gentle and quiet presence. He adds, "I believe in introducing newer breeds to India." For the uninitiated, borzoi as a breed was propagated by Tsars, the erstwhile Russian royalty and is available mainly in Russia. He adds, "Very soon, his girlfriend will be joining us."

Yours faithfully

Only the price tag sounds intimidating, the sustenance is as easy as it gets. He adds, "It's a normal dog. Just like any other. You give him simple dog food."

The love for pets, nevertheless, goes beyond the professional reasons. "Apart from the fact that they make your life enjoyable, they also inculcate healthy habits in your life. You take your dog for an early morning walk and you remain fit naturally. No need for gymming or spending lakhs." Not that we need it but the reasons to have a pet just got multiplied by many.

manpriya@tribunemail.com

stress buster
Holiday without stress
Renee Singh

Welcome to the holiday season. Don't we all look forward to holidaying? Yet we also realise that holidays also trigger a certain level of stress. While this season is meant to bring feelings of love and cheer, it is also the harbinger of stress for many. It means trying to cope up with a lot of family demands, organising kids, dealing with guests, visiting family members or just simply orienting a day to keep everyone happy. In a poll conducted recently, 80 per cent of people find the holiday season to be stressful.

For all you holiday stressers, relief is around the corner if you know how to deal with it. So, what causes holiday stress?

Doing too much

As the saying goes all things are good in moderation. During holidays we are indulgent with ourselves and we often experience too much of a good thing which is really not good for us.

Eating, drinking and partying

An overindulgence in fun activities like parties where you eat too much or drink too much causes people to stress over the consequences. First they indulge and then they worry about their bulge. They constantly think of which diet plan to follow to reduce weight.

Financial worries

This is a problem which needs to be dealt with. Holiday debt has become almost a tradition. People go overspending on frivolous things in the holiday spirit and then create stress for months paying their credit card bills.

Too much of togetherness

Holidays are a time when extended families get together. Sometimes we overdose on togetherness and this leads to stressful arguments, irritability and many other negative behaviours. This inevitably affects relationships adversely.

Seasonal disorder

Many people to some degree are affected by the weather into a state of depression. It may be a subtle condition generated by the weather change but it casts a pall over the whole season. Days get shorter and there is more time spent indoors dealing with each other, leading to stress.

Check holiday stress

The great thing about holiday stress is that it is predictable. We know it is a come and go situation. We can make plans to eliminate it. It can be avoided completely if we can learn to follow the following premises.

Sort your priorities

Do not allow yourself to get overly weighed by activities. Decide on what you enjoy doing the most and do just that.

Smart eating

Food is the constant temptation while holidaying. Please do not give in to emotional eating. Practice mindful eating.

No great expectations

Be aware of your limitations. Look back at previous years and locate the best times of your life and decide which activities gave you the maximum happiness. Try getting into a few of them again.

Host at home

If travel gets to you just party at home. A holiday need not necessarily mean going away somewhere. You could very much indulge your passion for holidaying in your own home. Invite your favourite people over.

Holidays are supposed to be fun times, don't allow them to stress you. Just enjoy the spirit of the season.

(Singh is Chandigarh based psychotherapist)

Craft bazaar

Art & Crafts Festival organised by North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation Limited is on at Lajpat Rai Bhawan—15 with a view to promote the sale of handicrafts and handloom products of entire North-eastern region — Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Tripura, Nagaland, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim.

The rich culture of North-eastern India is interwoven in its fabric, the traditions of many people of different ethnic origin, settled in the fertile Brahmaputra valley and Barak valley and its surrounding areas and influenced by the ecology of the region. They have kept alive their customs and traditions which are reflected in their life and their activities.

By and large many items in handicrafts of contemporary use are also introduced by the craftsmen through their inter-action and the benefits derived from sale of their handicrafts products through this festival help the artisans to earn their living.

In the recent past, the craftsmen have developed many items of cane and bamboo furniture with their improved knowledge to suit modern tastes and preferences of the customers. Basketry and cane works from Assam and Tripura which have perfected to a fine art and has exquisite specimen of cane work particularly of woven items which looks like weaving in golden fiber. Praiseworthy are the sittal patti items made with a kind of reed.

Traditional and colourful North-eastern handlooms have become familiar in the all places of India. Assam muga silk saree, mulberry silk saree, endi (eri) chaddar, Naga shawls, gamocha are among many more items of attraction.

The programme is aimed at promotional activities whereby the craftsmen are able to sell their products, exchange innovative ideas through display of their products and active participation in this festival. On till December 8. — TNS

French kiss for Sunny Deol!

Before you let your imagination run wild, let us clarify that French Kiss is the name of singing duo Toshi and Sharib's debut music album that was unveiled by Sunny Deol. The macho star, who is rarely seen at any social events, made an exception and landed well on time to release the album.

Meanwhile, Toshi and Sharib gave a breezy performance by belting out some songs from the album. One song from the album was showcased for the assembled audience. — HRM

Shraddha Kapoor’s skincare tips

Shraddha Kapoor, the pretty actress of Aashiqui 2 fame, is blessed with naturally beautiful skin. The young actress has been receiving compliments on how healthy and glowing her skin is. She shares some skin care tips.

1 I make sure to give special attention to my skin on a daily basis. I have good skin but I maintain it and take good care of it.

2 I wear make-up only during film and photo-shoots. I am totally comfortable without make-up and just kajal and gloss suffice.

3 I use a good a face wash moisturiser and toner and drink plenty of water. I avoid eating fried and heavy food, especially when it is hot. I use natural and home-made remedies on my face as much as I can.

4 I remove my make-up before I go to sleep as leaving make-up on is the worst thing you can do.

5 Overall, I am a happy and a positive person and that helps my face glow. It is important to love yourself to look beautiful.

CHATTER BOX

More on the platter

A still from Relationship Status - It's Complicated
A still from Relationship Status - It's Complicated

After establishing itself as the country's number one youth General Entertainment Channel (GEC), Channel V is all set to get a fresh identity-- a new logo to go with its new tagline- V Correct Hai.

This will also see the launch of four exciting new shows as the channel continues to focus on the youth of the country. One of the shows, Relationship Status - It's Complicated, is about three boys and three girls who land into each other's life when they become next door neighbors. Once their initial euphoria settles, they discover that there is a lot more to their relationship that needs to be understood.

While Maddy, Rocky and Bappa try to unravel the mystery called girls, Jo, Urvashi and Nikki try to understand the men in their lives. And once they become neighbours, their relationship statuses do get complicated! The sitcom will have half-an-hour episodes and will be a bi-weekly offering.

BACK AGAIN!

Celebrity filmmaker Karan Johar is back with the fourth edition of Koffee with Karan. Premiered on December 1 at 9pm, the all new season of the show went on air on Star World. With a star-studded guest-list and a new set, Season 4 kicked-off with an episode starring Salman Khan.

Salman has never been a guest on the show before and season 4 is sure to keep viewers glued to their screens as the elusive Khan let his guard down for Karan. An indicator of the impending season is its new tagline: Behind the scenes, beneath the sheets. The show certainly promisexxs a generous serving of fiery revelations and drama and gossip Bollywood has to offer.

Speaking about the new season Karan said, "The new season is going to be the most exciting yet, with a host of new guests, a fantastic set and some great conversations." Ushering in the latest season, the director-host surprised viewers with a special Broadway style promo which went on air earlier this month.

All in the family

This weekend, the manch of Nach Baliye was graced by the presence of six Star Parivaar members- Sooraj and Sandhya from Diya aur baati Hum, Poonam and Akash from Ek Ghar Banauga and Rashi and Jigar from Saathiya. The Parivaar was seen encouraging their favorite celebrity couples and also shake-a-leg with a few of them on the show. Besides the dancing and cheering, the Parivaar couples were seen thoroughly enjoying some of the performances, while also chit-chatting and playing various games with all contestants.

Besides some exciting conversation, there was a unique exchange of talent as well in this episode. Sandhya who is about to become an IPS officer gets a special training from Gurmeet on marshal arts while, Vinod who did an outrageous performance with fire, was seen teaching other members some thrilling moves. The fun did not end here, Bharti was also seen doing what she does best, make people laugh with her humour.

Friendly gesture

Wow factor: Vin Raina
Wow factor: Vin Raina

Creator Siddharth Kumar Tewary's epic Mahabharat has gathered a huge response from viewers abroad who are appreciating his show.

Vin Rana (Nakul) has a Russian friend who came with her kid and went to the sets of Mahabharat to experience the show. Vin says, "I met my friend in Thailand few years back. She is a photographer. She hails from Russia, so when she came to know that I am playing Nakul in Mahabharata; she showed her interest to have a look at how it was made. I took her to sets in Umargaun and Vrindaban studio and she was amazed to see the entire set. She also complimented my look and asked if I got the role because I am the most handsome looking man in the cast (smiles)!"

Vin also adds, "She has never seen something like that in her life and she already wants to come back again in December."

Much in love

Soon to be married couple Sargun Mehta and Ravi Dubey, who are currently looking forward to their wedding next week, are also planning a honeymoon. Sargun has finally got a break and the couple plans to go to Spain. Although nothing has been finalised yet.

Ready for the second innings

Remember the popular show Nilaam Ghar? Buzz is that Zee TV might bring it back on the tube soon. The concept was simple, wherein contestants had to guess the price of a product and if they got it right, they won it.

Matters of health

Shakti Arora, who couldn't play the role of Karan in Star Plus' Veera, is upset with rumours that he was thrown out of the show due to his tantrums. He says that he was unwell when the unit planned to start shooting which is why he couldn't shoot and they opted for another actor.

Raise a toast

Having completed 500 episodes of Chidiyaghar and 100 episodes of Laapataganj- Ek Baat Phir, the channel and producers celebrated the success with a huge celebration recently. Both the shows have been delivering decent ratings and the comedy shows have a large fan following too.

On a perennial high

Deepika Padukone attended the Marrakech Film Festival with her Ram Leela director Sanjay Leela Bhansali. The 100-crore-grosser opened the international festival and Deepika has been receiving rave reviews for the same.

The ramp scorcher

Farhan Akhtar has the perfect physique and a pleasing personality. He looks very good in formal as well as Bohemian wear. Several designers are approaching him to walk the ramp and become their showstopper for their formal collections.

Brand new: Sonam KapoorThe commercial break

Sonam Kapoor will now endorse four more brands. That brings her endorsement total to eight brands. She already endorses toothpaste and a cosmetic brand. Given her personality, she is quite a hit in the endorsement circles.

Brand new: Sonam Kapoor

Back in action

Actress Manisha Koirala, who had to delay her comeback due to jaundice, is now doing well. The 43-year-old gorgeous actress was recently spotted at Vishesh Bhatt's wedding reception in a radiant sari. She looked happy as she was seen catching up with her old friends. The Saudagar actress had undergone treatment for ovarian cancer last year and is now free of the disease.

The regional touch

YRF's Gunday will be released in Bengali because the film is set in Bengal and covers the turbulent 1970s. The music has been scored by Bappi Lahiri who is a Bengali himself. This will be a first for Yash Raj Films.
Holiday list: Katrina Kaif and Ranbir Kapoor
Holiday list: Katrina Kaif and Ranbir Kapoor

Some grand plans

Sources tell us that Katrina Kaif and Ranbir Kapoor are planning to go to New York to bring in the New Year together. Katrina will fly to London, post the release of Dhoom 3, to be with her family for Christmas and then to New York to celebrate New Year's Eve with Ranbir Kapoor.

Promotions, the good old way

Dhoom 3 will be promoted using the old way of promoting films, which is through trailers and promos on television. The cast will not go on any show on television or do too many events. Aamir Khan is the most looked forward to in the film.

ASTRO TURF
P Khurrana

ARIES: Your skills will be noticed by those who matter. Networking will help you build contacts. You gain insight by looking at truths and listing your priorities. Tarot message: Don't give up on your rights without considering a second chance. Lucky colour: Saffron Lucky number: 36

TAURUS: Don't waste your time getting into arguments with colleagues or loved ones. Pay attention to health matters and don't neglect any persistent symptoms. Listen to your wisdom. Tarot message: Think positive and be optimistic. Lucky colour: Forest green. Lucky number: 28

GEMINI: You may be in an irritable frame of mind and need to guard against making impulsive decisions. Differences could lead to tense moments and you have to be careful about losing your friend. Tarot message: Handle others carefully don't annoy anyone. Lucky colour: Brown Lucky number: 48

CANCER: Take a moment to think about what you need to avoid making impulsive statements. Travel plans could run into some delays. There could be favourable news regarding a family member. Tarot message: Leave the past, move ahead. Lucky colour: Yellow Lucky number: 45

LEO: You may have opportunities to make an impression on seniors or new business associates. Visitors and news can be expected. Tarot message: Adapting to new technology will be important to keep pace with the changing times. Lucky colour: White Lucky number: 29

VIRGO: You may start a long term venture that actualizes your potential and brings you fame. Financial gains on the cards. Your sense of humour will put you in the spotlight. Tarot message: Unfinished business will unleash new problems. Lucky colour: Navy blue Lucky number: 32

LIBRA: Disruption in a business venture is temporary. Your greatest friends are those you meet in transit. You will be focused and well prepared for important meetings and presentations. Tarot message: Don't enter a matter of conflict that doesn't concern or affect you. Lucky colour: Maroon. Lucky number: 47

SCORPIO: You are generous and giving in personal relationships and command respect from family and friends. Mastery of your skills or craft brings appreciation and fresh opportunity. Pleasant times are expected. Tarot message: Play your cards close to your chest. Lucky colour: Peach Lucky number: 31

SAGITTARIUS: Finances brighten considerably. Aim for the proper method of organizing things and you might be reday for a stable environment. Be positive and you will overcome problems. Tarot message: Delays are the only obstacle in your way to success. Lucky colour: Ebony Lucky number: 53

CAPRICORN: Tension at home will have an emotional affect. There is a chance to gain from interacting with your soulmate. The big ideas you have been setting out for people are starting to take shape. Tarot message: Do what is right and watch your best interests. Lucky colour: Aqua blue Lucky number: 41

AQUARIUS: A romance that you might have thought was headed your way arrives on its own terms. Have a flexible attitude. Keep up with an exercise routine or a work schedule. Tarot message: Learn to rely on your mind and intellectual abilities. Lucky colour: Pista green Lucky number: 26

PISCES: It’s a good time to build up positive patterns that foster growth. Look around at the successful people you admire. Tarot message: You will need to learn how to cope better with success; its demand and limitations. Lucky colour: Cream Lucky number: 65

THE YEAR AHEAD
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is December 2...

Sagittarius is the ninth sign of the Zodiac, ruled by the planet Jupiter. Being a fiery sign, you are bold, courageous and highly daring, positive, fearless and ambitious. You will not jitter in adverse conditions and have the strength to fight with determination and conviction. Sentimental feelings for an ex-partner or beloved can disturb you. If trying to find a government job, you may get quasi or contractual employment. Health will remain good but health of your spouse or children will become a matter of concern. Servants, colleagues, subordinates will cause some worry and unnecessary tensions. The months of January, April, May and July will be eventful. Excellent year for social as well as religious functions.

Positive colours: Yellow, cream, sea green, purple and red

Select days: Sunday and Monday

Favourable numbers: 1,2,7

Gems recommended: White sapphire, pearl, zircon.

Charity on birthday: You should donate milk or milk products to needy.

Michael Youn (December 2, 1973, Suresnes, France) is a French actor, singer, comedian, TV and radio personality. In 2010, he directed his first movie Fatal, in which he also starred. In 2006, he played the lead role in the film, Incontrolable.





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