Bold & beautiful
The traditional image of a woman has taken a huge turn. Nowadays, the adventurous and forthcoming are most admired...
Mona

When Aamir Khan appeared on Karan Johar’s show recently, he candidly admitted that he was left impressed by a girl who walked up to him and told him point blank - ‘I want to sleep with you’.

He couldn’t but admire the honest and gutsy take by the girl in question. Now those demure, simple girls who cook, clean and sing are becoming more or less a rarity! We check out what the young men are looking for in their girls in today’s time.

Independent and bold are the qualities that top the list, in that order, as we randomly ask young men on traits that appeal to them in girls around them. However, on how far would they like to carry a relationship with this ‘independent’, ‘bold’ girl, they differ. Garry Bains, 25, would like his girl to be free-spirited just like his current love of life — his Harley. “I admire a girl who is up for anything,” he laughs. If the girl is bold enough to take the first step and ask him out (or to bed), this double bachelors holder, just back from San Francisco, would be up for the awesome challenge. “Meeting would be fun,” says this boy who is not into ‘relationship’ stuff as yet.

Actor Aryeman Bhatia, a 26-year-old single who is upbeat about his guest appearance in Bhojpuri film Dariyadil by veteran director Vimal Kumar, hasn’t thought about the kind of girl he would want in his life but if a gutsy girl knocks his door, he is up for it..

Nishant Kapoor, one amongst the CAT toppers from Chandigarh, too falls in league of men who admire ‘independent & adventurous’ girls. He is all for a relationship with a girl who is bold enough to take the first step. How about taking this relationship to the wedding altar? “Well, marriage is a different ballgame all-together. There are far too many considerations involved in that,” says this boy.

But it’s not like the boys in today’s age are just happy having adventurous girlfriends. This 24-year-old actually had Aamir Khan-like a situation in real when he was studying at Hyderabad. One of his close friends walked up to say that she was keen to sleep with him. “I told her like okay, but I am actually seeing someone. She backed out saying that she wouldn’t like to cheat on a girl,” laughs this young man.

“Let’s not demand the conditions from our girls that we ourselves cannot fulfill. It would be stupid to imagine that the girl you choose to marry is going to be a virgin! It is always better to have an honest and truthful person as your partner,” says this hotelier, who is not comfortable sharing his name on record.

Aashray Mehndiratta, 25-year-old partner in an event management company, couldn’t care less about sharing his thoughts in public though. “I would be floored if a girl asks me to go to bed with her.” As long as they gel well, a relationship is on and marriage on the cards too!

mona@tribunemail.com

Rising like a phoenix
Fashion designer Raakesh Agarvwal held on to what was important in life. Out of a self-imposed sabbatical, he is ready to weave new ideas and designs
Ashima Batish

For those who believe that glamour industry is addictive, it’s time to review the same. In all probability, they will find an interesting contradiction in Raakesh Agarvwal. For a year-and-a-half, the fashion designer hadn’t dressed up any actress for the Red Carpet or enrolled himself for a fashion week. Neither he gave any interviews nor hired any PR firm. Far removed from glamour, all he did was, live his life with those who matter to him and worked on his clothes label, Raakesh Agarvwal.

The sabbatical, he says, was worth it and you can actually make that out, as he bubbles with the energy of a first-year-college student. He is upfront about his past, about the life he lived till two years back and gives you a glimpse of his present, when he is out of the shell once again, this time leaner and fitter and more importantly focused.

“I have lost 40 kg. Besides the extra weight, I also shed superfluous friends,” he says. A pancreatic attack forced the changes in his life, when he realised that celebrity friends weren’t necessarily true friends. The break he took triggered a lot of rumours, some as disturbing as that he was suffering from AIDS, or was admitted in a rehab centre.

“I was resolute not to get distracted from my focus on reshaping my life.” He did open newspapers but never bothered to give clarifications. “That’s what happens when you get clarity of mind,” says the fashion designer, who was in Chandigarh to present his collection at a fashion show.

The same, “clarity of mind” has instilled in him confidence to say no. No to customers who come looking for bridal wear or on a personal front, saying no to friends who want him to party till the wee hours. “I only do clothes for cocktail, reception or engagement parties. As for partying, I have to wake up early for my yoga sessions.” And now that he is back, he is working on his collection meant for the WLIFW’s next season. “It will be the most opulent collection from my studio so far.” The scheme of things also include opening up a first flagship store in Delhi followed by one in Mumbai.

No wonder, for the ups and downs he has seen in his life, his history of running away from home at the age of 16 and taking to drugs at 22, and accomplishments in the world of fashion, he found the first chapter of Shefalee Vasudev’s book, The Powder Room, dedicated to him. “It wasn’t easy for her to convince me but once I committed and narrated my story, I felt lighter and better.” Now that he has re-discovered himself, he only has a lot to achieve and nothing to lose.

Nothing gay about it
Raakesh doesn’t shy away from speaking out his mind and about the Supreme Court’s decision of criminalising gay sex, he says, “It’s undemocratic, depriving of the human being’s basic right to live. A lot of my friends left India for the same reason.”

Laugh for a reason
Jasmine Singh

Binnu Dhillon
Funny act: Binnu Dhillon

Agreed, laughter can be infectious, it spreads like forest fire. But actor comedian Binnu Dhillon is trying to save some part of the forest by being selective in his choice of roles. In case, you haven’t figured out a thing, catch Binnu in Chandigarh talking about his upcoming films in all candidness, without all seriousness! Presenting Binnu Dhillon…

Comedy, comedy everywhere

I understand there is an overkill of comedy; I also understand that it is time for sensible comedy. Right now we need better stories which are littered with comedy. More than the jokes it is the situation that evokes laughter. Punjabis have the knack of getting after one thing, whether it is a business prospect or making films. Now, everybody wants to make films, and they are doing a bad job of it. I assume that by 2014, we will be able to sift the serious movie makers from the ones that are there for the heck of it.

My line-up

Ishq Brandy and Mr and Mrs 420 are the two up-coming projects. Both films are comedy. As I said, I don’t believe in playing the old punches and jokes, in both the films laughter comes from situations. At the same time, I have decided to be selective with the films. I also understand that I cannot be everywhere, I have to careful with comedy. If I am all over I am sure the audiences will get sick of me as well!

No other ambition

I have been asked to direct a couple of projects, but I am glad acting. This is the only thing I know how to do well and this is something I would want to do for the rest of the life as well.

Problem area

Punjabi films still have a return value. It is the distributors who are posing a problem, if only the distribution is taken care of, the industry will still survive. People say technicians, actors charge money, the fact is most producers are naïve and they are taken for a ride, some amount of professionalism can solve everything.

Punjabi Tadka
Crowd puller
Jasmine Singh

Balli Riar
SING ALONG: Balli Riar

There are things that can never make it to his resume, like one sitting on his laurels and second talking about himself nineteen to dozen.

"Precisely why I didn't make a resume," he laughs. From making heads turn with his songs Banda marna, Gaddi, Rang pakka…to playing the intense actor in his debut Punjabi movie Young Malang, Balli Riar believes in creating his own trends. His Mohawk hairstyle is pretty much followed in Punjab, with umpteen youngsters sporting it! Even when you have to push him to the wall to extract information, once he gets started, one can see every word making sense.

Singer actor or actor singer

I am first a singer and then an actor.

Had I not been a singer...

I would be cricketer.

Singer I want to collaborate with…

Pitbull.

The memorable live show

When I performed in Malaysia in 2013. The crowd swayed to the music and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

The best about live singing?

Live interaction with the audience. I like the fresh energy, the immediate response that I get from their actions.

Recoding studio vs live singing

Live singing is any day fun.

Left marooned on an island…

I would carry water, music and a looking glass!

Style check

A pair of denims and a shirt with a nice smile is the best style.

Five minutes before the show…

You will see me jumping backstage. This helps me to warm-up before the show.

Best moment of my life…

When I went to England to play county cricket, I won the man of the match award.

A role to die for…

Leonardo Di Caprio's role in The Wolf of Wall Street Journal and Hrithik Roshan's role in Guzarish.

Things I stay away from…

Hypocrite people. I don't stay away from food at all.

Words are all I have…
For Raghu Ram of Roadies fames, reading has always been an important part of his growth. He talks about his journey in his book Rearview: My Roadies Journey
Mona

There is more to stars than meets the eye. Do you know that Raghu Ram carries four or five books everywhere he goes? And, it's not just adventure he reads on, but autobiographies and biographies too. On his way to Chandigarh to launch his book Rearview: My Roadies Journey, he savoured life and struggle of boxing legend Mary Kom. He has already bought Om Puri's biography, which is next on his reading list. Comfortable at Muse Lounge-26, Raghu takes out time to talk about his book and more…

Share with us the writing of Rearview: My Roadies Journey

I read a lot. As I am travelling most of the time, books are my favourite companion. To write a book has always been there on my 'to do list'. Also, for years, lots been written about me, I have been called rude and million other things. I don't blame anyone; I too have guarded my privacy all these years. Through the book, I want to reach out to my fans, for them to know about choices I made in my life. To be out there, the real me. Rupa became supportive partners in this journey.

What is the time period of your life that this book covers?

It starts with my birth, in fact, even before that, and covers my journey till the beginning of Roadies X1. It's on an autobiographical note.

How difficult was it actually penning it all down?

Writing was not that difficult. But when I was told by Rupa to cut down 22,000 words, that was work.

Who are your favourite authors?

It's the great lives that I read about. Muhammad Ali's The Greatest has been the Bible to me. There has been Bruce Lee's, Andre Agassi's, Yuvraj Singh's biographies too in my favourite's list.

What makes Chandigarh one of your favourite destinations in India?

I feel accepted here. Whatever project I have done, be it my shows, film and now the book, I make Chandigarh part of it. I want to reciprocate the heart warming response the city given me.

What's on your itinerary that you are here?

All I want to do is to spend time with my wife Sugandha Garg. She is shooting for film in Chandigarh and it's our anniversary. She was shooting somewhere else last year. I seem to be forever chasing this girl all over India.

What's next for MTV Roadies?

One thing different is that abuses have stopped. Some like it, some do not. Anyway Roadies has always had 'love it or hate it' relationship with viewers. The situation is new and I am very am happy about it.

Acting, singing, writing, producing, now that you have tried it all, what's next for you?

I really have no idea what's next for me. I feel I need a break. Writing this book has been cathartic for me and has forced me to think about who I was, who I am.

Par Excellence
Chipping from a bad lie
Jesse Grewal

During the winter months, it is difficult to get a good lie around the greens. This makes the short game difficult as the shot played from a bad lie or a divot is completely different from a shot played of a good lie. From a bad lie or a divot we require a steeper angle of approach to be able to catch the ball first. This results in a lower initial flight with increased backspin. To cater for this low initial ball flight we must take a more lofted club. When the distance is less we could call this shot a chip and when it is played from far it is a punch shot.

There are a few do's and don't's for this shot. To create a steep angle of approach we need to have a steep backswing. The first thing is to get the centre of the upper body or sternum ahead of the ball (picture 1). This would result in more weight being on the left foot (for right handed golfers) and the left shoulder should not be too high. The left arm could be slightly bent and not over extended in the effort of keeping it straight.

The second important thing is to have the backswing slightly outwards and upwards. The club head must be outside the hands during the takeaway (picture 2). A set up with the shoulders slightly open helps in achieving this. One could take a cardboard box and place it between the ball and the feet to make sure that the club does not go inside on the backswing.

Thirdly, the follow through should be low and the left wrist should remain flat. The left wrist bends upwards when we try to scoop the ball and also when there is no turning of the hips on the downswing. Take another club and hold it along the shaft of the one you are hitting with (picture 3). Make sure that this does not hit you body on the follow through. This will ensure that you are turning with the hips to face the target and the right wrist maintains its angle through the swing keeping the left wrist flat and thereby creating a steep angle of approach.

(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)

The chase is on…
Monica Bedi, who plays a tough cop in Rambo Ranjha, loves to do Punjabi films as it keeps her connected to her roots
Jasmine Singh


Photo: Pradeep Tewari

Not everything is monotonous, sad or overboard with television…if one gets to wear designer sarees that become talk of the town, gets to go on a six-month break, and dabble with something else, like a film, well then TV is not that bad.

Monica Bedi plays a negative character on the television show Saraswatichandra on Star Plus, something that she is enjoying thoroughly. In Chandigarh, sitting at Pashtun restaurant in Sector-35, this pretty girl makes telly sound the most exciting source of entertainment ever.

She opens the conversation with the statement that she has been plain lucky. Monica goes a little further to explain how and why. "People say TV can get monotonous, one has to do those lengthy roles that keep dragging for ages. In Saraswatichandra, I get to play a negative character, but this isn't something for the heck of being bad, it is different and very important to the story," says Monica who gave herself a six-month break before returning to the serial. She puts all rumours to rest. "I don't know why people said I had left the show, I am still very much a part of it, and now I have a very interesting track on the show."

Monica Bedi is a fitness freak, someone who has to hit the gym 4-5 times a week. "The kind of industry I am in, I have to keep myself fit and look fit," she smiles, mentioning how everyone praises her for the sarees she flaunts on her show. "They are the talk of the town," she adds with a grin.

TV alone doesn't consume her time, currently she is in Chandigarh shooting for Navaniat Singh's Rambo Ranjha, a Punjabi film. The film stars Garry Sandhu and Jazzy B. "I play a cop chasing these two thieves. It is a different role, something I haven't done before. I would love to do Punjabi films, it keeps me connected to my soil."

Monica is open to Bollywood films and also singing if she gets an opportunity.

beauty wise: Monica Bedi

Master Chef
Go nuts
Manju Dewan

Cashew nuts are everywhere. Savour it now as it does not last long and do try this yummy snack made with ingredients off the kitchen shelf. Sit back and enjoy the compliments for your innovative cooking.

Cashew nut bites

Ingredients

  • 100gm cashew nut powder
  • 1 onion (chopped)
  • 2 tbsp cornflour
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 2 tbsp bread crumbs
  • ¼ cup milk
  • ½ tsp red chilli paste
  • 1 tsp butter
  • 1 tsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp tabasco sauce
  • 1 tbsp vinegar
  • ¼ tsp ajinomoto salt
  • ¼ tsp mixed spice
  • 2 tbsp bread crumbs (for coating)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Oil, to deep fry

Method

  • Heat butter in a pan. Add onion and cook until light brown.
  • Add cornflour, milk chilli paste, cashew nut powder, bread crumbs, salt, vinegar, say sauce, mixed spices and mix well.
  • Remove from heat and spread the mixture in a greasy tray.
  • Freeze until set.
  • Now cut it in desired shapes. Roll in the bread crumbs.
  • Shallow fry in hot oil until golden brown.

(Dewan is a Ludhiana-based culinary expert)

— As told to Poonam Bindra

A gift of love

Unravel the mysteries of love this Valentine with the classic Sparkling Love Collection from Popley Eternal. Jewellery is not only an exquisite and beautiful expression of a person's taste, but also an exceptional way to showcase your affection.

The collection by Popley Eternal's a perfect gift, adding up to the joie de vivre with our loved ones. Serenade her with timeless beauty and simple grace of the artistic and charming collection. The unique design of each jewellery makes it an exquisite collection. The Sparkling Love Collection is a characteristic beauty with a shimmering twist and is sure to make sparks fly.

Speaking of the Valentines collection, Suraj Popley, managing director, Popley Eternal said, "This assortment comprises of subtle yet beautiful pieces specially designed for that special person in your life. The elegance and charisma of the Valentines collection guarantees to make your beautiful day more enchanting." — TNS

star track
Behind the camera, once again

Ad filmmaker Vinil Mathew feels his experience in the advertising world and acquaintance with the camera helped him a lot while making his debut feature movie Hasee Toh Phasee. Vinil feels an ad filmmaker has the advantage over assistant directors as they have the experience of having called the shots and leading a team.

"Being an ad filmmaker gives you an edge while making a film. One has the sensibility to get the audiences' attention as they tell a story in merely 30 seconds," Vinil said.

"Unlike an assistant director or someone else, I know my camera, I know my angles. It made me versatile. I am aware of the new technologies," he said. With his debut in Bollywood as a director, Vinil has joined a long list of people, who have made a successful transition from the world of advertising to tinseltown, which includes Satyajit Ray, Shyam Benegal, Pradeep Sarkar, Dibakar Banerjee, Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, Shoojit Sircar, Rajkumar Hirani and many others.

Vinil says although there are definite advantages, it is not a guarantee that a good ad filmmaker will go on to make nice films. "I don't think it is generic. All ad filmmakers don't end up making good films. It all depends on how you decide to tell your story." Vinil says Hasee Toh Phasee is one of the few scripts that he was toying with a year back and the only one that was liked by Phantom Films, the producers. The film stars Sidharth Malhotra and Parineeti Chopra and will hit theatres on February 7.  — PTI

Take one
Revealed! Shahid Kapoor’s look in Vishal Bhardwaj’s Haider

The wait is finally over. The much awaited look of Shahid Kapoor in Vishal Bhardwaj and Disney UTV's Haider is out. Shahid Kapoor sports a neat buzz-cut in the movie A still from Haider that will see him play the desi Hamlet. After giving the cult hit, Kaminey, the trio of Vishal Bhardwaj, Shahid Kapoor and Disney UTV brings Haider that is set to release on September 12 this year. The movie which also stars Tabu, Shraddha Kapur and Kay Kay Menon is Vishal Bhardwaj's interpretation of Shakespeare's Hamlet.

Being currently shot in Kashmir, Haider is Vishal's last film of his trilogy based on William Shakespeare's tragedies. Shahid Kapoor says, "I believe in the script and have completely surrendered to Vishal sir's vision on my character and my look."

With an ensemble of actors including Tabu, Shraddha Kapur and Kay Kay Menon, this Shakespearean interpretation set against the backdrop of militancy in Kashmir, has some remarkable performances.
A still from Haider

Total recall

While shooting for his upcoming movie The Legend of Michael Mishra", Bollywood actor Arshad Warsi recalled the Lage Raho Munna Bhai days.

The 45-year-old was hugely appreciated for his character as Circuit in Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. and Lage Raho Munna Bhai.

"Good morning...The last time I shot where I am shooting today was for Lage Raho Munna Bhai'. Opposite Metro theatre...Fond memories," Arshad posted on Twitter.

Tough deal, tougher girl

Actress Priyanka Chopra, who had to slip into several outfits like corsets, fishnet stockings and train with French cabaret dancers for the song Asalaam e Ishqum from her forthcoming film Gunday, says it was difficult to do the track.

"It was a really tough song for me to do and I'm glad it's being appreciated," Priyanka said in a statement.The video is inspired by the chic burlesque acts of the famous Moulin Rouge cabaret of Paris. She reportedly had a tough time shooting for the song as her father (Ashok Chopra) passed away a few days before the shoot in the summer of 2013. The costumes too had to be created overnight.

"I really admire Priyanka for the courage and determination that she displayed during the shooting of the song. She put in all her pain and converted it into an intense energy, which has reflected in Asalaam e Ishqum," said director Ali Abbas Zafar. — IANS

Brad’s a good boy

Director-actor Clint Eastwood's son Scott feels superstar Brad Pitt is kind and humble. The newbie actor, who has shared the screen space with Hollywood hunk on new World War II drama film Fury, said he was moved by his kindness and humility, reported Contactmusic.

"(Brad is) a kind and humble person, which is so important in this world. He's a great actor because he's proactive about developing material and getting stuff made," Scott said.

Although Scott, 27, is breaking into the movie business, he does not see himself as a traditional actor.

"I love acting, but I'm not a thespian. I want to be a man's man, not a glitzy pop star." — PTI

Waiting for the right film

Alia Bhatt, daughter of filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, is yet to work with her family production house and the young actress says she will wait till the right film comes her way. The 20-year-old actress, who made her Bollywood debut in 2010 with Karan Johar's Student Of The Year, did work in Mukesh Bhatt's Sangharsh where she played the young Preity Zinta.

Ever since making her debut, Alia has signed three other big banner films but none of them are with Vishesh Films production. "I am not being offered any film. They are launching other people... giving 100 crore to other people. But jokes apart I think they are waiting for the right project and the right time. Till now nothing has come my way. It will happen. And when it does, it will be with a bang," Alia said.

The actress will be next seen in director's Imtiaz Ali's road drama Highway, in which she will be seen in a de-glamourised avatar as city girl Veera, who gets kidnapped and eventually finds freedom in her bondage. When asked how she researched for her character, Alia said, "My only training came from Imtiaz. I don't like to get references from others because the spontaneity goes away. This film required my character to be me. The character really fascinated me, especially her transition," she added.

The actress has also turned singer with this film and has sung two songs Sooha Saha and Patakha Guddi composed by music maestro AR Rahman. But Alia is not considering it as a career option. "We have got some really good playback singers... the industry has some beautiful voices. It is interesting also that actors do their own singing. I don't know about singing in other films but I am intrigued to learn music. Rahman sir insisted that I should learn," Alia said.

Highway also stars Randeep Hooda and the film will hit theatres on February 21. — PTI

here to be: Alia Bhatt

Miley’s adult talk

Pop star Miley Cyrus, who introduced the controversial dance move called twerking last year, says she has no idea what all the fuss is about her shows and claims they help her young fans. Cyrus has defended her raunchy stage shows and insists that her young fans should be aware of sex. "What's crazy to me is that sexuality is still too offensive. Kids need to know about sexuality. Girls need to be comfortable in that," said the 21-year-old. "When people think of twerking, the first thing they think of is me. And I'm just this little girl from Nashville who put up a funny video of me," she added. — IANS

chatter box
Romancing the real on reel
Many TV actors are known for the reality shows. We look at some of them, who have been regular on the reality TV circuit.

Gauahar Khan Balancing it well

He has been the lead in many shows but featuring in reality shows has made him famous as Gurmeet than his popular characters. From Pati Patni Aur Woh to winning Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 5 to Nach Baliye Shriman v/s Shrimati, he is currently seen in Nach Baliye 6 with wife Debina.

Dancing diva

Though she got fame due to her show Kasautii Zindagii Kay, Shweta is known for her dancing skills and of late, she has been seen on dance shows like Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, Nach Baliye, Aajaa Mahi Vay and has participated in among others. She also won Bigg Boss 4.

Sister act

Even before she won Bigg Boss 7, Gauahar had been part of dance reality show Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 3 and even had a show The Khan Sisters, which was about her and her sister, Nigaar.

Its Showtime: Gauahar Khan 

Strong foothold

Winner of Bigg Boss 5 and lead of many popular serials including Kumkum, Juhi has been a regular reality show participant. She has done Say Shava Shava, Kaho Na Yaar Hai, Comedy Circus, Hans Baliye, Pati Patni Aur Who and Maa Exchange among others.

Drama queen

From Bigg Boss 1 to Comedy Circus to Nach Baliye 3 to The Rakhi Sawant Showz and of course Rakhi Ka Swayamwar, Rakhi has done it all. She has even been part of Pati, Patni Aur Who with her then fiancé Elesh Parujanwala.

In sickness and health

Manav Gohil who plays the role of Jetley in Sudhir Sharma's The Buddy Project is a soccer enthusiast and he plays soccer almost every alternate day. However, recently, he tore the right ligament of his leg, because of which, he had to cancel his cricket tournament visit to Ajmer. The doctor has advised him to take complete rest, which is not possible as he works for a daily soap. His show, Aakh Micholi went off air and he is now focusing on The Buddy Project.

He even shot for a fight sequence, despite the pain. A source from the set says that he refused to let a duplicate do the scenes. Meanwhile, Manav said, "My ligament in right leg is torn and it needs healing, but I can't avoid the shoot. I miss playing soccer and I've been advised not to play any sports for two months at least."

We wish you speedy recovery! — HRM

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: "Nine of Wards" brings enjoyment and good opportunities. Personal plans are likely to receive a severe setback. This is an exciting day for romance. Your child's performance makes you happy. Tarot message: Do not be bullied into accepting situations. Lucky colour: Royal blue Magic number: 41

TAURUS: Indulge in sensual and physical pleasures. You will have no problem getting along with family members. Do not resist the changes and shifting sands as it all works out for the best. Tarot message: Take limited risks and don't jeopardize your long term capital. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 62

GEMINI: Expect the unexpected. Business matters may not turn out to be as straight forward as they first appear. Discuss important moves that you wish to make with influential people. Tarot message: Stay balanced as it will lead you out of a problematic situation. Lucky colour: Pink Magic number: 57

CANCER: "The King of Swords" suggests that you need to make a real effort on job because laziness will not be tolerated by bosses, clients, and customers. You will meet someone, who sets your heart aflutter. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid any delays. Lucky colour: Black Magic number: 26

LEO: "Ace of Cups" will set your mood for getting nagging chores out of the way. Check the to-do list thoroughly and clear as many items as possible. Turn your attention to home and family. Tarot message: Learn to live with the outcome of your decision. Lucky colour: Brown Magic number: 63

VIRGO: Love affairs will blossom, but do not go on face value. Steer away from rough venues and unpalatable types. Success comes only with hard work. Postpone decisions regarding major deals. Tarot message: Focus on professional changes. Lucky colour: Ebony Magic number: 27

LIBRA: The support, tips, and kicks of an expert will help you master whatever subject you are committed to learning. Health wise; cut down salt and increase liquid intake. Tarot message: Cut away the frills and concentrate on what is truly important. Lucky colour: Sea green Magic number: 28

SCORPIO: Personal plans will have to be put aside. Try your luck and reap the rewards. Learn to be optimistic. This evening is ideal for serious discussion or a heart-to-heart with your partner. Tarot message: Do not refuse to anything without seeking the advice. Lucky colour: Metallic grey Magic number: 30

SAGITTARIUS: Travel arrangements can be difficult to arrange. Time spent alone on reading and studying will not be wasted. Homemakers should seek ways to cut unnecessary expenditure. Tarot message: Try not to be carried away by your initial success. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 43

CAPRICORN: Socially, it will be a hectic evening ahead. Sign new documents after lunch. Health gives no tension at all. Watch out for potential arguments or ill-temper especially if alcohol is part of the scene. Tarot message: Be articulate. Lucky colour: Yellow Magic number: 55

AQUARIUS: After a busy period of seasonal celebration, you will be glad to kick back and take it easy. Frank discussion could clear the air. Go along with the wishes of your spouse. Do not be too demanding. Tarot message: Do not let opposition faze you. Lucky colour: Red Magic number: 57

PISCES: Your overall situation will improve. Superiors will be co-operative, offering you moral and financial backing. Acts of sweet kindness and loving appreciation can endear you to lovers, family, and friends. Tarot message: Take one step at a time. Lucky colour: Ebony Magic number: 37

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is February 4...

Health may be troublesome. Financial gains can be expected, as your past investments will pay off. You may also start a few new business ventures or expand your business as well. Do not trust new people as they may prove untrustworthy. Do not lend a big amount of money. Friendly atmosphere at work front will enable you to achieve progress. Financial matters will give favourable results. You might tend to exhibit aggressive behaviour, but that needs to be avoided. June is a phase of lucky news and this will put you in a better mood. Those planning to have a child will soon be blessed with a healthy baby.

Positive colours: Dark blue, all blue shades and dark colours

Select days: Saturday

Favourable numbers: 2, 4 and 8

Gems recommended: Gomed, cats eye, tiger stone

Charity on birthday: Donate saffron coloured edible items to eligible needy or in a religious place, or at community kitchen today.

You share your birthday with Urmila Matondkar (February 4, 1974, Mumbai), who made a debut as a child artist in the film Kalyug (1980). She is best known for Shekhar Kapur's Masoom in 1983. She made her film debut as an adult actress with the film Bade Ghar ki Beti. Urmila will remain in the industry for a very long time.





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