Poise personified
National Award-winning Bengali actress Rituparna Sengupta knows how to create a balance, be it in her professional life or personal. In Chandigarh for the shooting of a Hindi film, she reveals how Bollywood would figure prominently in her scheme of things in 2014...
Nonika Singh

She rules the Bengali cinema with her beauty and talent. One of the top actresses of Tollywood, National-award-winning actress Rituparna Sengupta, in Chandigarh to shoot for a Hindi Film Extraordinaari, however, throws no starry tantrums.

If she carries no airs, the much touted snob value associated with Bengalis too is totally inconspicuous. Even though like a true intellectual Bengali, she too is a voracious reader currently reading her favourite author Khaled Hosseini's latest book And the Mountains Echoed.

However, what makes her stand out among the crowd of 'I me myself" stars is her balance and poise. Sitting at Hotel Turquoise, in an exclusive chat, the Bong beauty talks of the need for harmony in life, to include men in women's march towards emancipation, her tepid romance with Bollywood and of course the pivotal character that she plays in Extraordinaari. Undeniably, she can identify with lead part of Tanya who like her has fire, the steel, is a go-getter and is ambitious. Only she interjects "I am not too ambitious and have other priorities too". So she takes as much pride in being a family person as in her films that have won rave reviews and set the cash registers tingling.

Having acted with the very best of Bengali tinsel town, she recalls her tryst with the late Rituparno Ghosh on whom she has only recently penned a tribute. She says, "Prior to acting in his film Dahan I, a product of commercial cinema, didn't know what this alternative and beautiful world of cinema was all about." Today she doesn't know whether a sharp divide between commercial and parallel films exists.

She, however, does consider entertainment as a given in films and also that a producer must get his money back. The 'middle of road' cinema is what she takes a fancy to. Despite repeated forays in Bollywood in films like Do Not Disturb, Bum Bum Bole and Main Meri Patni Our Woh, she may not have been able to create a similar buzz in Bollywood as in her home state. But she has no regrets. On hindsight, she agrees she could have strategised her career in Hindi cinema better.

In 2014, she would be eying it with greater interest. The wish-list of directors she is dying to work with is rather long. Covetously and with admiration, she is also looking at the careers of Vidya Balan, Priyanka Chopra and of course her ultimate idol Madhuri Dixit. Hindi cinema, she deems, is passing through an interesting phase. But so is Bengali cinema, which according to her has moved many levels up in terms of budget and also international acceptance. One particular Bengali film that she is looking forward to is Sanjoy Nag's Paarapar. While she has had the privilege and the honour of working with top names, she is equally open to new "fresh from the garden directors who have an interesting take too and must be allowed to echo their ideas."

Essentially an instinctive and director's actor, she owes much of her acting skills to her training in dance. A woman of many interests and passions, cinema is not what she aspired to be in. But finding herself here she not only likes the space but also can sense an enormous potential as an actor to make a difference to society. Predictably, the roles that right now figure on her radar are the ones that can impel women to "wake up and smell the coffee." She adds, "Women must claim their space not by banishing men but by co-existing with them." Her space not only includes hubby dearest, but also her many passions like social work and writing. Multi-tasking like her diverse roles onscreen comes naturally to her.

nonika@tribunemail.com

Loving it all

In City Beautiful for the first time, Rituparna Sengupta loves all things Punjabi. Punjab, about which she had read in school days as the land of five rivers, somehow had always beckoned. Be it the Sarson ka saag and Makki di roti, she is all-agog to try out Punjabi delicacies. Also on the agenda is a visit to the Golden Temple. You bet she would love to play a Punjaban in Punjabi films too. Regional cinema is very much her cup of tea and she has only recently packed up a Malayalam film.

Director’s cut

The unusual title Extraordinaari says it all. But if you still don't get it, Sunanda Shyamal Mitra, director and writer, dubs his film as female Chak De of sorts. Only here there are no sports persons, only a female grooming guru who proves her mettle in the world of business and fashion. Though wardrobe malfunction figures here, the film with a strong message, he insists, bears no similarity with Madhur Bhandarkar's Fashion. An ardent admirer of Satyajit Ray, Mitra is also a self-confessed fan of Mahesh Bhatt and like him he believes in giving a break to new talent. No wonder, but for Rituparna Sengupta, most of his cast comprises fresh faces and even the music by Hrija Roy will feature new voices.

High flick
A biopic on hockey player Prithipal Singh promises to be a realistic portrayal of the hero…
Jasmine Singh

In the years gone by, cinema has whipped up some interesting stories — stories that have been pulled out from the lives of common people, stories that have left a lump in your throat and stories that we all have related to somewhere or the other!

On its way is another story plucked from the old pages of the Indian hockey. Chandigarh-based Babita Puri, a sports documentary filmmaker along with her team, which includes Sundeep Misra, from whose unpublished book on Prithipal Singh the screenplay has been written along with others, shoots for the biopic on Olympics hockey player Prithipal Singh titled Prithipal Singh. The unsung hero was shot dead by his own student in PAU. This Hindi film will be dubbed in many languages and showcased at international film festivals before being released in India.

Babita, who has extensively researched on this subject, is against giving any commercial angle to the film. The story has been written by Sundeep Misra and the film is being directed by as many as four directors with an expertise in one sphere or the other. “Prithipal Singh, who was also known as the king of short corner, was an unsung hero. While working on one of my documentary, I discovered a lot and later decided to put it in a story,” she says.

A research that spread to almost a year with her team, Babita, along with others, met people who knew about him or had heard of him. She puts it candidly, “People who knew anything about him or the incident weren’t very open to talking. They would often ask us not to switch on the recorder.”

Despite the challenges, the team decided to go ahead with the subject. “There is nothing like havan karengey (Read Bhaag Milkha Bhaag), this is very realistic portrayal of the unsung hero. We haven’t taken any cinematic liberty in the film. It has two songs, one is motivational and no frills at all,” she clears.

Vikas Kumar plays the protagonist and Babita clarifies that they haven’t asked him to build muscles or anything. “It is as close to the real character, Prithipal Singh, as possible.”

Hockey coaches and the team from Delhi have come down to teach the artist nuances of the game. This almost two-hour-long film is being made on a realistic scale. “The idea is to take the film to various festivals,” she adds.

Babita, who has had her stint as a journalist, completed a filmmaking course from New York before jumping in this sphere. “The film is Hollywood style, with no running around the trees and useless songs. It is divided into two halves; in the first half audiences will see Prithipal Singh and hockey and in the second it is mostly about his university stint and interaction with students.”

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Write note

Sundeep Misra, who is the author of to-be-published book on Prithipal Singh, has written the script of the film. He has already written three books. The screenplay written by Kudrat Pal Singh is based on Sundeep’s book. “The whole idea is to keep the story authentic without any frills. Sundeep, with his expertise, assists in the making of this film. “A book can be translated into a film without diluting the main idea,” he adds.

Flavours of the land
The Punjabi food festival at The Taj, Chandigarh, brings authentic, mouth-watering dishes to delight the foodie in you...
Amarjot Kaur

Had there been a diary listing the specialities of the region, the pages on Punjabi cuisine would have made for a rather spectacular study. While the Punjabi Food Festival at Dera, The Taj, acquaints us with some interesting dishes it also increases our knowledge of the culture of the region, which was served garnished with the much-loved garam masala!

"When we talk of Punjabi cuisine, one does not refer to divided Punjab. So, the delicacies include the ones from Lahore and Peshawar as well," says Surinder Singh, General Manager, The Taj.

As Surinder shares more on Punjabi cuisine, our senses drown in robust flavours of the dishes. The first among them is the Kumbh Banno Kabab, which has mushrooms stuffed to the brim, followed by the rounds of Arbi ke kabab, Paneer tikka, Tandoori lazeez champe and Chapati subz methi seek. "Almost all our chefs travel to various pockets of Punjab and learn recipes of authentic dishes from the locals, which they later bring on to our menu. I feel for any food to be called authentic, the ingredients used must be from the region itself. Also, there has to be a certain deviation from the commercial, for instance we have experimented with arbi, which is otherwise not really the choice of most food lovers. However, in my opinion, Punjabis love their food as well as experiments," says Surinder.

While talking about the trends in Punjabi cuisine, Surinder says, "Mostly, people head to Punjabi food restaurants to eat the kind of food that is convenient and healthy. Tandoori and barbequed food, for instance. Nevertheless, the scope for experimentation and innovation is the key rule that we run on." He swears by the Imli Murg and Tandoori fish, when it comes to listing his choice for healthy and convenient food.

Never mind the dirty fingertips, every dish is worth relishing. The Malai Murg kofta adds another dimension to the word brilliant and the Patiala Sahi Murg makes you want to question your own capacity to eat! Then there is Aloo te amritsari badi da bharta and Sarson da saag, a vegetarian delicacy that every Punjabi can swear by.

(On till January 19)

amarjot@tribunemail.com

fashion funda
Sporty spirit
Ashima Batish

Their label Geisha is 12 years old and this time, they have created designs for the modern women, who like to experiment, yet keep the basics very feminine. Paras and Shalini at their last outing during the WLIFW presented a collection that used laces beautifully and blended them with fabric while keeping the look very sporty. They make the forecast on the same lines.

What's in

The winter gives you an option to experiment with drapes and add interesting layers to the dressing up part. Try bolero tops and capes. A fresh take on evening wear would be interesting. Mix sporty cuts with fragile tulle work. The look for spring summer season will be very delicate that will incorporate light embroidery, nets, laces, which will subtly mix with fabrics like chiffons and georgettes. Keep the silhouettes very sporty, yet fluid.

What's out

The safe, classic look is out. Draping looks beautiful but a tone on tone look is not. Mix and match colours, rather than follow one colour theme for clothes and accessories. Play with one colour and highlight it.

Colour count

Nude pastels will make a huge comeback post the deluge of neons from the last two seasons. The most in demand colour will be tea-stain, which will be balanced well with bright shades. Purple and tea-stain and black and tea-stain will be very popular. Pale pinks, soft blues and greens with light embesllishments will be the sought after combinations of the season.

Dressed to the nines

It has to be Kangana Ranaut for her edgy, experimental and perfect style. She knows what to pick for different occasions and she never fails to surprise.

Leading in design

We have always admired Christian Dior for the label's silhouettes and cuts.

On Indian fashion industry

We have come a long way from where we started twenty years ago. Especially in the last decade, the industry has progressed well. Even people have become more fashion conscious.

TROUBLE SHOOTER
Learn to say no
Simmi Waraich

I am pursuing engineering. I am an average student. I am finding it difficult to concentrate as in the hostel, I am often unable to say no to others and we end up wasting a lot of time. I also feel very uncertain about my future as I will have to do MBA or M Tech before I get a job.

Amit, Chandigarh

Worry is a part of life and to some extent useful too, but when it consumes a better part of your day it can be a hindrance. If most of your day is spent worrying, then it ends up being non- productive. Try to have a plan for a month in advance. When you get thoughts of what you will do in two years from now, try to tell yourself 'first things first. One step at a time'.

Also, it is a very important part of ones personality development to say no to friends and family at times. Strengthen your assertive skills by practising them. Say no to people at times. A useful technique is to be like a "broken record". Repeat the same phrase to avoid giving in. Like, "I'm sorry but I'll come out with you tomorrow if I'm free. Thanks."

Often people don't say no because they believe saying "no" is rude and aggressive or saying "no" is unkind and uncaring. However other people have the right to ask and we have the right to refuse. People around you may be average students too but it's how they plan and manage their time that helps.

My daughter was diagnosed with ADHD and put on medication. After the medicine her academic performance has improved remarkably. She is better and writes more clearly, finishes her sentences and is doing well. Her teacher's attitude towards her has changed. Will medicine cause side effects or is okay to give?

Kumar, Chandigarh

You are lucky your child responded to the medicine. Often people have to try out two- three medicines to know which works best. The benefit of the medicine in your child's case seems to outweigh any risks. The acceptance from teachers, the ease with which she does her schoolwork now indicates that now she is living up to her potential. However, along with medicine, stay in touch with your child's teachers. Teachers need to be sensitised to dealing with ADHD kids. Sometimes there may be decreased appetite in the children. One can take larger meals in the evening when the medicine wears off and snacks at frequent intervals can help.

One can also try out drug holidays in vacations. If the child is on stimulants, drug holidays can be tried. If the child is on non stimulants, drug holidays are usually not given.

If you focus on how to work on the child's behaviour, that helps in the long run.

When success isn't noticed and complimented, a child with ADHD feels increased frustration and lower self-esteem.

(Waraich is a Chandigarh-based psychiatrist)

Master Chef
An attractive combo
Manju Dewan

Combinations in food give variety for taste. Here we have used a fruit and a vegetable to make a colourful snack, which is quick to make and attractive to serve.

Ingredients

8 pieces mushroom

1 cup pomegranate seeds

½ tsp garlic paste

1 onion (chopped)

½ tsp ginger paste

½ tsp green chilli paste

1 tsp vinegar

Oil

Salt to taste

Black pepper powder

Method

  • Cut the stalks of the mushroom and scoop out a little portion from the mushrooms. Chop the stalks and scooped out portion and keep aside. Marinate the mushrooms with salt and black pepper powder.
  • Heat oil in a pan and sauté the mushrooms.
  • In a bowl, mix pomegranate seeds, chopped mushrooms, onions, garlic paste, ginger paste, green chilli paste, vinegar and salt. Keep aside for 10 minutes.
  • Fill the mixture in mushrooms. Bake the mushrooms in pre-heated oven for 5-10 minutes.
  • Serve hot

Colour parade on Golden Globes red carpet
Hollywood divas get gutsy with bright colours & combinations

Established Hollywood stars Amy Adams, Reese Witherspoon and newcomers like Lupita Nyong'o brightened up the red carpet of the 71st Annual Golden Globe awards as they came dressed in their colourful finery.

Adams was clearly inspired by her American Hustle character's wardrobe when selecting the plunging two-toned red Valentino gown teamed with a chic braided up-do.

Sandra Bullock wore a tricoloured number from Nepalese-American fashion designer Prabal Gurung. She presented the first award of the night and was nominated for best actress for her role in Gravity, which she lost out to Cate Blanchett.

The leading ladies appeared to avoid getting their long gowns wet after a sewage pipe at the Beverly Hilton Hotel burst and flooded the red carpet with black sewage and water.

Legally Blonde star Reese Witherspoon cut a simple but sophisticated sight in a sleek Calvin Klein aqua sleeveless gown. Olivia Wilde proudly put her baby bump on display in a surprisingly sexy Gucci gown embroidered with dark green metallic palettes and emerald crystals. The mother-to-be was one of the style stand-outs on the red carpet. Pregnant actress Drew Barrymore arrived with husband Will Kopelman, rubbing her baby bump in the colourful Monique Lhuillier gown.

Julia Roberts sported a black and white, opting for an unusual white shirt under a strapless Dolce & Gabbana strapless gown. Blue Jasmine actress Cate Blanchett looked typically stylish in lacy black Valentino with a plunging back. Downton Abbey star Michelle Dockery looked elegant as ever in an Oscar de la Renta frock. Girls star Lena Dunham wore a vivid yellow strapless Zac Posen number and Modern Family's Sarah Hyland looked chic in a dull pink gown. Parks and Recreation star Aubrey Plaza looked striking in a two-tone purple gown with ruffled back detail. — PTI

Got stumped talking to Salman on my chat show: Karan Johar

Filmmaker Karan Johar says he got stumped speaking to superstar Salman Khan on Koffee With Karan. Karan is currently into the fourth season of the celebrity talk show, whose very first guest this time was his best friend Shah Rukh Khan's one-time enemy Salman.

Also, the Dabangg Khan has never been a guest on the show before. During the chat, Salman made some stunning revelations including he is a virgin.

"I have gone world over and there are people who genuinely came and asked me is he really a virgin. He was being funny when he said I am saving myself for the wedding night. Salman has a straight face sense of humour. I can't believe there are people who believed it. That is what is scary as you can say anything and people might take you seriously," Karan said.

Ask him if he ever was at loss of words while talking to Salman, the host said, "Sometimes you get stumped with Salman. Even I got stumped one or two times like what should I do now, sometimes because of seniority you tend to... with younger generation you can get away saying anything." Salman's presence on the opening episode of Koffee With Karan had people talking. But Karan shrugged off the controversy.

"Last season I started with Abhishek Bachchan and his wife Aishwarya. With very show there is always a different journey. With this particular season it is different journey. Why do people read into everything…it is just a show... who starts and ends it how does it matter," he asked.

The surprising element this time was the appearance of the other two Khans — Salman and Aamir — on the chat show as SRK has been regularly part of the previous seasons.

"Both had not been on the show for various reasons in the past. I am glad they both made it this time. Salman kicked off the season in a superb way and I am happy he came. I was very touched as he was warm and wonderful, which he always is," Karan said. — PTI

Monster call
I, Frankenstein to have an audience choice personality dub for a movie for the first time!

Hollywood movies making big waves in India is no news anymore. And Hollywood making its presence felt here is an even older news. PVR Pictures, the Indian distributors of the much awaited sci-fi action film I, Frakenstein starring Aaron Eckhart have come up with a unique way to engage the audience for the film in India.

For the first time ever an English movie will consider a TV actor alongside popular Bollywood faces to dub for a lead character role. It doesn't stop there, as PVR has also come up with a unique online campaign to allow the audience to choose their preferred voice for the epic role of Frankenstein's Monster. The poll which begins on January 13 will have TV actors including the likes of Gaurav Chopra, Karan Singh Grover, Gurmmet Choudhary and Vikrant Massey or the audience could choose one of Bollywood actors including Randeep Hooda, Emraan Hashmi, Gulshan Devaiah and Vidyut Jamwal. The poll closes on January 15 and the person with highest votes will be the one PVR approaches to dub for I, Frankenstein.

Right on track

Former Friends star Jennifer Aniston and her fiance Justin Theroux's relationship has reportedly become stronger after their vacation in Mexico. The 44-year-old actress and her fiance had been spending a lot of time apart due to their filming commitments, but their trip to Mexico for the New Years got their romance back on track.

"They are stronger than ever and the connection they had in Cabo is proof. The vacation was just what they needed, friends, relaxation and lots of laughs," a source said.

"Jen and Justin make each other smile and everyone commented on how much they're back on form. They're in a really good place," the source added. — PTI

Back to basics

Actor-producer Dino Morea, who got himself enrolled for acting classes under celebrated theatre director NK Sharma, is now eagerly waiting to face the camera again. "It (acting class) was for me to learn. I wanted to get better at my own (acting) skill. I believe that all the actors at one point of time should unlearn to learn something new again.

I went to Delhi for the same purpose," Dino said. "So now I am just waiting for an opportunity to come my way where I can show my skills," he added. Dino was last seen on the celluloid in the 2010 film Pyaar Impossible, donned the producer's hat with Jism 2 in 2012. He is now is set to produce two more films this year. "I am producing my second and third film this year and hopefully I will act in a good film this year," he said.

Sharing his experience of training under Sharma, Dino said: "He actually taught me what acting is. He really took me to the basics and taught me what I know now." — IANS

Love in the space

High on romance: Kim Kardashian
High on romance: Kim Kardashian

Rapper Kanye West reportedly wants to take his fiance Kim Kardashian to space for the couple's honeymoon. The Bound 2 actor's obsession with outer space has convinced his reality TV star fiance to agree for a honeymoon in zero-gravity.

"Kanye is obsessed with space and anything sci-fi. He has shot many spaceship-themed videos and he even considered training as an astronautical engineer. Now he's fixated on the idea of honeymooning in space," a source said.

"Apparently, Kim wasn't keen at first but Kanye has talked her round and there's even talk it will be chronicled on her reality show," the source added.

The holiday would cost USD 1 million per night to the 36-year-old hip-hopper, who has a six-month-old daughter North with Kardashian.

However the star couple's voyage would not be possible before 2015 and till then West wants to undergo astronaut training with Kardashian at the CSS Skywalker, an inflatable station being created by Bigelow Aerospace which will float 250 miles above Earth.

"They're multi-millionaires so money is no object," the source said. — PTI

CHATTER BOX

In action: Rohit Bharadwaj
In action: Rohit Bharadwaj

Happy to be lucky

Actor Rohit Bharadwaj, who is currently enjoying his part as Yudhistir in Mahabharat shares his on and off-screen relationship with co-stars. He says, "The most common prank we play at each other is locking co-actors in the make-up room, especially when they are needed for a shot.

"He adds, "Shaheer, Saurav, Vin, Lavanya and me stay together on the sets as we have our scenes in one frame. From the Kauravs, Arpit Ranka, who plays Duryodhan keeps asking me about certain things and is a good friend."

He says, "I am happy that with this show audience are seeing a different look of Yudhistir. Every morning when I wake up from sleep I feel proud that I am part of this show. Producer Siddharth Kumar Tewary has proved that hard work is the only investment that never fails," he signs off.

Travel diaries

Actor Ravi Dubey and Sargun Mehta, who got married in December, didn't get time to go for a long honeymoon trip but they managed to go to Goa for a short break on New Year.

Their actor-friend Srman Jain joined them too. Ravi said, "Goa was beautiful and colorful. We had a great time as weather was perfect and festive fervour gets on to you."

The ‘fan’tastic experience

Karan Wahi has been an ardent fan of Salman Khan since childhood and he has even expressed this to him previously. We hear that Karan was so excited for a special episode of Nach Baliye which featured Salman Khan that he brought a gift and requested Salman to sign it. Salman immediately signed it.

Poonam finds a new pet

The charming and graceful Poonam Dhillon (Sharda Modi) has found a new friend on the sets of Sony Entertainment Television's show Ekk Nayi Pehchaan. Poonam Dhillon, who is winning millions of hearts by playing the character of Sharda Modi, an amicable mother-in-law, is very happy to spend time with her new friend that is a pigeon. She makes sure that every morning she feeds it well.

Going off air

Buzz is that the makers of Pavitra Ristha may end the show as its ratings have dipped considerably. Apparently, Ekta Kapoor is working on another show, which might replace Pavitra Ristha. If not, then they might shift Pavitra Ristha to the 7pm slot.

ASTRO TURF
P Khurrana

ARIES: The need is to be vigilant as someone at office might try to harm your interest or reputation. Call friends you haven't seen for a long time. Drive carefully, especially two wheelers. Tarot message: You have well-wishers who will give you sound advice. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Lucky number: 60

TAURUS: Finances and investments would take up a major chunk today. This is also a good time to deal with loans, debts and credits. Businessmen may decide to take care of their portfolios, stocks and shares. Tarot message: Don't jeopardize your long term capital. Lucky colour: Aqua. Lucky number: 52

GEMINI: Many of you may receive some sound counsel from unexpected sources, so pay attention to everything that you hear. Those of you facing a cash crunch may be helped out by a friend. Tarot message: Health of elderly member at home will need to be looked after. Lucky colour: Rainbow pastels. Lucky number: 46

CANCER: This may be quite a surprising and rewarding day. Many of you may receive bonuses or pay hikes that were unexpected while others may receive appreciation for their hard work. Tarot message: Leave things open-ended if you want results. Lucky colour: White. Lucky number: 39

LEO: The day would be busy, yet you would be able to achieve a lot. At work, your labor of the past few days would be appreciated and rewarded, motivating and inspiring you. Tarot message: You need to be creative if you want to do well in your business. Lucky colour: Sea green. Lucky number: 28

VIRGO: A hectic social life would keep you on your toes today and lead to some new and interesting associations. A special someone may not have enough time for you and may make you feel a bit neglected. Tarot message: Everything will get sorted out on its own. Lucky colour: Cream Lucky number: 63

LIBRA: Most of you would be craving for something entertaining today. At work, you would be open to challenging assignments, which will give you a chance to tap your immense potential. Tarot message: You will get the help you need if you ask for it. Lucky colour: Deep red Lucky number: 41

SCORPIO: Manage personal relationships with diplomacy and thoughtfulness. This would be a day in which you would need to think with your heart, especially as far as a special relationship is concerned. Tarot message: Do not overspend just to impress others. Lucky colour: Orange Lucky number: 32

SAGITTARIUS: Singles would receive good proposals and should consider them. Stomachache, backache and the like may bother you. Keep a close eye on your diet and listen to your doctor. Tarot message: Over-optimism could lead to mistakes. Lucky colour: Mauve Lucky number: 30

CAPRICORN: If confused about your relationships, don't hesitate to seek help and guidance. Those who are married would bring the spark back into their relationship. Tarot message: You can stabilize your financial situation if you make property investments. Lucky colour: Peach Lucky number: 64

AQUARIUS: Travelling and communication would be a part of the day. Some of you may also be philosophically and spiritually inclined. Tarot message: Avoid gossip sessions at work place or you might face a problem later in the day. Lucky colour: Saffron Lucky number: 50

PISCES: Adventure, fun, entertainment would be on the top of your mind today and you may spend a good deal of time partying. Most of you would also feel a strong desire to become efficient. Tarot message: Be sure of involving yourself in a new project as much as possible. Lucky colour: Purple Lucky number: 25

THE YEAR AHEAD
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is January 14...

The Sun will enter the zodiac of Capricorn today. This is called Makar Sankranti, a day of Sun, which is emitting special rays benefitting the human body. Worship the Sun to have the maximum benefits in this particular year of life. Try not to waste energy in fighting. The Year will turn out to be good for you with some surprises being revealed on the personal front. You will see relationships change for the better. Worries may bother your mind regarding money matters. Be calm and take guidance from learned people to find a way out. In February, you will be prepared to take up challenges. Hard work and dedication will fetch you good gains at work. It will be a good time to travel. April will be active for you. Take care of your health. July suggests that you should use a brief break to assess your priorities.

Positive colours: Green, turquoise, sea green.

Select days: Wednesday & Friday

Favourable numbers: 5,6

Gems recommended: Emerald & Ruby

Charity on birthday: You may donate saffron coloured edible items to needy.

Hyacienth Diva Mantalaba, better known as Diva Montelaba (January 14, 1991 in Cebu City, Philippines), is a Filipina actress. She was one of the Final Five in the fifth season of Star Struck, a reality-based talent search show of GMA Network in the Philippines and finished as first runner-up.





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