Making a statement
Be it Deepika Padukone's neckpiece or Sonam Kapoor's danglers or Neha Dhupia's golden necklace, statement pieces in jewellery are shining through and the latest must-have for every fashionista
Ashima Batish

If you delve into the history of India, jewellery was never bought as an investment. The sole purpose of spending on it was ornamentation. For the same reason, before the British Raj, women of the princely states strictly wore statement pieces. The concept of buying and selling gold wasn't that important, minimalist jewellery was unheard of.

As for the present times, jewellery designers are predicting the comeback of the same practice - when jewellery will not be a substitute for cash but a supplement for art. There are ample sources to take cues from. Beginning from the Giorgio Armani Prive's show at spring summer couture New York Fashion Week to Deepika Padukone's look in Ram Leela to her red carpet appearances, statement pieces are getting their due.

Sensing women's love for jewellery, when Farah Ali Khan started her label almost ten years back, her plan of action singularly included designing and making statement pieces. Farah recalls, "It was a well thought out strategy. I wanted women who wore my jewellery to stand out at any occasion. And only bold, beautiful pieces guarantee attention." She hasn't ever done minimalist jewellery though the price range of her jewellery now begins from the unbelievable one lakh. "It makes my jewellery affordable and gives people the opportunity to try statement pieces. This particular range uses coloured stones."

And when fashion icon Sonam Kapoor expresses her love for statement jewellery, people do take notice. On each of her public appearances, be it for the red carpet or promotions of her films, especially Ranjhana, Sonam flaunted a statement neckpiece. Kangana Ranaut followed suit during her Audrey Hepburn look in 2012 or last year at the launch of her website. Deepika Padukone, on the other hand, has taken to danglers.

Rings by Farah Ali Khan are a rage with celebrities
Rings by Farah Ali Khan are a rage with celebrities

The invention of 2013, when it comes to statement pieces, is the ear-cuff - recently donned by Huma Qureshi on the red carpet at Screen awards. "As it explains, a statement piece should grab all the attention, which means that it shouldn't be ideally paired with other pieces of jewellery," suggests Asha Kamal Modi, jewellery designer of Jodha Akbar and Deepika Padukone's earrings — Keshika fame." For example, a bold neckpiece is enough to make a statement and should be worn with earrings or if it is danglers, they should be the only piece of accessory.

"You have to ensure that you don't end up looking like a jewellery mannequin," comes from Roopa Vohra, who is all for the 'experimental pieces'. She implies the term to pieces that can be unhinged and worn in several ways. "If there are chains of uncut diamonds, then there should be options of wearing them all together or one at a time. Also earrings should be such that their length can be altered."

While Roopa and Farah vouch for precious stones and metals, Asha believes that women should let-off obsession with gold and diamonds. "No woman likes to repeat jewellery on occasions that matter. Since the idea is to encourage women to have quantity in statement pieces, the quality has to be compromised with, not in terms of designing but use of metal as well as stones."

The low return on the gold is also the reason why youngsters don't mind wearing faux metals. No wonder labels like Zara, Aldo and the likes have a section dedicated to statement pieces. "How many statement pieces can one afford to buy? It can be a minimum of two and maximum of ten but you need jewellery for all events," Asha adds.

Bright spot
As for the trend being followed in the West as well, Farah says it has been imported from India and Russia, countries which have a history of bold jewellery and where metal is loved for its lustre and not exchange quality. "Almost every international designer now has a segment for accessories, which include statement pieces.

ashima@tribunemail.com

Beyond boundaries
Pakistani singer Farhan Saeed Butt believes music is a unifying force and should not be mixed with politics...
Mona

Farhan Saeed Butt
tuned in: Farhan Saeed Butt.

He was just another university-goer, busy bunking classes and making music, when fame hit him. Farhan Saeed Butt saw success as a singer and there was no looking back!

In Chandigarh, to perform at F Bar & Lounge, Pakistani musician Farhan is a grateful man at the turn his destiny took. He loves the crowd here, as much as he does taking to the stage.

Busy affair

I am the happiest on stage, have developed a penchant for it. I have travelled half the globe, basking in the adulation of my fans. I love the 'travelling part' of being a singer the most initially, but now its killing! I wish there was a magic button that would transport me to the stage. So busy I am with shows that I started for India right after a stage show back home.

Memory lane

Being with Jal was one of the best phases of my life. We have parted, but that doesn't mean I don't cherish the memories we made together or the work we did. But life moves on. It's been an incredible journey; I have no clue where time flies.

Fan following

As I stepped on this side of boundary, I had this huge smile on my face, now I don't know if that's due to the love of my fans here or fun I had while performing here. I fail to understand, when we eat the same food, speak the same language, follow the same sport as a religion — why is there so much tension between our countries? Even if politicians have to have their way, they should leave sportspersons, musicians and performing artistes alone. Artistes get unmatched love and adulation on both sides of the boundary. In fact, I have more friends in Delhi than I have ever made all through my schooling days and college.

Sing along

I am excited about my debut song in Bollywood, which I have done with Mithoon Sharma for Vikram Bhatt's film Creature 3D. He's everyone's favourite after Tum hi ho, but I have admired Mithoon since his Maula mere maula days.

Nice platform

I know how difficult it is for struggling artistes to have a platform. I had a lovely stint with Café Rock on the lines of Hard Rock Cafe at Lahore, which became the meeting ground of upcoming artistes. Due to lack of time, I had to close it down. But I might do something of that sort again.

Brighter side

The music scene in Pakistan is looking up. I have a hunch that the coming year and the next would be best for our industry. Security situation is improving and our industry picking up.

Practice hard

Riyaaz is significant for any artiste. I try to do it every single day. I like to do my riyaaz on a harmonium or keyboard. I miss it due to hectic schedules sometimes, but I guess two hours a day is the minimum riyaaz that every artiste should do.

Coming soon

Up next is my own album. It will have eight to nine songs. Seeing the rousing response to my singles Halka Halka Suroor (cover I did for Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan) and Pee Jaoon, both will be part of it. Four more songs will be on similar lines. Fans have always appreciated my experimental music, so there would be some songs like that. Soon after I return, I will be shooting the music video for the album.

mona@tribunemail.com

Deep focus
Amrik Gill turns director for the upcoming Punjabi movie Kirpaan…
Gurvinder Singh

Punjabi movie Uccha Dar Babe Nanak Da captured the imagination of Punjabis for a long time and Yaaran Naal Baharan was the movie that set off the renaissance as far as Punjabi movies go. The man behind the 'words' for both these movies, Amrik Gill, has donned the director's hat for the first time now for upcoming movie Kirpaan.

Hailing from Mukerian district in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, he studied theatre at Panjab University and National School of Drama. A few years of assisting the likes of Gulzar, Amrik is known for the memorable dialogues of blockbusters like Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Ghayal, Tamas and the like. Although he was busy doing Bollywood movies, it was director Manmohan Singh, a good friend of Amrik, who convinced him to do Punjabi movies. "He said we needed to work towards making good Punjabi cinema as we had the requisite experience. That is the time when I turned towards writing Yaaran Naal Baharan," shares Amrik.

The writer has bagged the IIFA award, apart from many others, for Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, apart from the Filmfare Award for Jeet. "I always admired meaningful cinema. A filmmaker can be an agent of social change, so cinema is a great responsibility. Along with entertainment, there has to be a message. The youth today needs to respect heritage and culture," adds Amrik, who has also worked as a visiting professor at the Punjabi University. "It was during classes that the idea of making Kirpaan came about," he shares.

gurvinder@tribunemail.com

All about oils
Oil is an integral part of any Indian dish. But with so many options available and diet fads to make things further complicated, one is at a loss as which one to pick and which one to drop. Here is what the experts say…
Mona

Good ol' olive

Olive oil has become the hallmark for pseudo-health freaks. They will gladly glutton plates and plates of aloo puri provided it is fried in olive oil. Little knowing that some olive oils aren't meant for deep frying at all. "Extra virgin olive oil works the best for sprinkling on salads. Virgin olive oil you can use for regular cooking but is a complete no no for frying," says nutritionist Shreya. It being expensive works as a deterrent for some too and low cost olive oils can't be trusted as they could be combination and methods of extraction might not be that healthy.

Rice to the occasion

Rice bran is steadily climbing the popularity chart and most health experts are in favour of it. Made from rice husk, it retains the nutrients, especially vitamins B complex that Indians demand. "Rice bran oil has the right amount of oryzanol--an antioxidant with cholesterol lowering properties. It improves the good cholesterol to bad cholesterol ratio (HDL/LDL) and has more antioxidants as compared to other cooking oils," says nutrition and health educator Shreya. "Whatever is grown in the region is generally suited for the people there. We are biggest producers of rice and rice bran oil works best for us," adds Shreya.

Trusted mustard

Traditionally desi ghee and mustard oil have been the staple in this region. "Keeping in mind high smoking point of mustard oil, it works well with our traditional food. And it is low on cholesterol," says Shreya. Desi ghee is a balanced fat and can be part of regular fare provided it's used in limited quantity.

Adding variety

Coconut oil and sesame oil have won a nod from nutritionists too. Coconut oil is said to be enhancing good cholesterol, fuels metabolism, is an immunity booster and works well for kids, elders and expecting or lactating mothers. "Cooking coconut oil is different from hair oils like Parachute," shares Shreya. Though the flavour works well for South Indian delicacies, it takes bit of practice to be accepted in North Indian cuisine but the effort is worth it. Indian diet lacks in omega 3 fatty acids and sesame (til) oil fits the bill.

Mix-n-match

Madhu Sharma, consultant, diet and wellness, Panchkula, advises the use of number of oils. "No oil is complete in itself. I generally suggest the use of three kinds of fat in regular diet. Desi ghee, mustard and rice bran in combination work well. Dal being a staple in our diet, desi ghee tadka goes well with it. Vegetables like bhindi, baigan and karela in mustard oil and gravy- based vegetables can be done in rice bran. Rice bran or refined oil can be used for paranthas too," suggests Madhu Sharma.

Portion size

Fat is a significant part of our diet, but quality and quantity both have to be regulated. Madhu Sharma puts it at the most 10-12 ml per day per person and it should be a mix of all three that she suggests. Even for growing kids, fat intake should be restricted. "Most diseases take root right in ones childhood. So even with growing kids, it needs to be monitored that the child takes a maximum limit of 25 ml oil a day." And, then there are fats that are not visible like in milk, snacks that one needs to wary of.

How you cook

Paranthas will be paranthas whichever oil you use to fry them. Frying remains to be the least healthy way of cooking. One can opt for steaming and grilling. "Making the oil reach its smoking point as we generally do for most our tadkas is bad. Just heat the oil. Even better if you let the vegetables like cabbage soak in the spices in its own juices on slow flame and for fat add bit of butter at the end. It would taste great and you can drive health benefits too," says Shreya.

mona@tribunemail.com

it’s rocking
Hum along…

The wedding season is still at its peak and there's a song that has been buzzing around for quite some time now. If you guys have not treated your ears to the peppy number by Ishq Bector, titled Bhramachari, from the up and coming Bollywood film, Shaadi Ke Side Effects, featuring Farhan Akhtar and Vidya Balan, then you certainly are missing out on something. While you look for the song and hear it out loud, here's something that the city folks say about the song.

Peppy & quirky

It's a funny song and since this is the shaadi season, we like to pep it up with quirky songs, which lighten up the mood and that too, instantly. I like the rap in the song and the way it is looped around the chorus. Well done!

Aman Dixit, a private bank employee

Infectious tune

I like the song for its vibe and also because it doesn't require much effort to register the lyrics. You can go about humming-Harry's not a Bhramchari, even when you're taking a shower. Its tune is infectious too.

Simar Randhawa, student, Panjab University

Delightfully funny

It's a very nice and quirky song that makes one want to dance. Personally, my kid is very fond of the song, since he is only about a year old and I like dancing to it too. It's a nice and happy song.

Deepika Kaur, homemaker

— As told to Amarjot Kaur

green thumb
Synchronize with sun
Satish Narula

The biggest problem for a gardener is the sun. It is essential for the plant life. In some cases, its prolonged availability may be harmful whereas its absence in some parts of the garden may be a problem. Let us understand its use in horticulture.

The foremost observation while planning a garden is to see the position of the sun. All those parts of the garden are marked where there is complete sun, partial sun or no sun availability. The planting has to be planned accordingly. For this it is essential to have first hand knowledge about flora. This is where all the difference lies. You may find many a 'landscapists' in the market, but be sure he or she is qualified. This is because any plantation done once, especially the trees, climbers or even shrubs, cannot be changed later.

Once flowering starts, the pots can be shifted to porticos where they receive sunshine for a short time.
Once flowering starts, the pots can be shifted to porticos where they receive sunshine for a short time.

First thing first, let us talk about the winter annuals. The flowering plants of this season will put forth their best in a month or so. Those planted in beds in earth are bound to get the sun for the period when these are in direct line of the sun. Any obstruction caused by a tree, shrub, hedge, an adjacent building or any structure will cut upon the sun-time exposure. The days in winter are already short and if there is some cut in time, one cannot expect the best of quality in blooms. The plant, during and after its germination, needs good amount of sun. Then what is the solution? First, while planning the selection of site should be according to the sun requirement of different species, there are certain species like salvia, cineraria, nasturtium etc that may do well even when sun is scanty. In case you have planted annuals in pots then you can shift these pots on the roof top till when they start flowering. Once flowering starts, it can be shifted down and even when there is partial sun, the plants sustain good amount of quality blooms for the blooming period. When you follow this practice of putting the pots on the roof top, make sure there is no leakage in the roof or even you can spread black poly-film under the pots and be careful while watering the pots. Waterproofing of the rooftop could also be undertaken. (To be concluded)

(Narula is a senior horticulturist and landscapist)

Scripting success

Dr Atamjit
honour bound: Dr Atamjit

The executive committee of the Punjabi Lekhak Sabha Chandigarh has decided to honour renowned playwright and director Dr Atamjit for his contribution towards providing new guidelines to Indian theatre and writing unique scripts.

Dr Atamji has already been honoured with the prestigious award by the Bhartiya Sahitya Akademi for writing a play on the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev and also by the Sangeet Natak Akademi for providing new techniques to Indian theatre.

He will be honoured at Punjab Kala Bhawan at Chandigarh on February 9. Dr Romesh Kuntal Megh, a noted critic and litterateur of this region will be the chief guest and Dr Harbhajan Singh Bhatia, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, will present a paper about the contributions of Dr Atamjit in the field of script writing and theatre.

Dr Atamjit, who has been actively engaged in enriching this field of drama for the past 40 years, will also interact with the audience in a Face-to-Face programme on the occasion. — TNS

Ready to rock!
The newly opened F Bar promises party hoppers a different experience altogether
Ashima Batish

Party hoppers who have tick marked every club in Chandigarh are in for a treat once again. The latest offering in the city is F Bar, a club that boasts of Pan-Asian presence, the most happening club nights and cuisine that's worth digging into. To begin with, F Bar will have several city artists performing at the venue.

"We also have on the cards a number of fashion events, where in we will invite leading fashion designers and even hold events for the budding fashion designers," says Puneet Nath, one of the directors, F Hospitality, India.

With its plush interiors and aesthetically done up terrace lounge, F Bar promises a variety in its menu as well. Gunkaran Singh, director of the Chandigarh edition of F Bar, says, "People from the city and even Ludhiana travel to Delhi to party at F Bar. They understand the brand and the quality it promises." Even as the party regulars in the city are known for club hopping each week and trying new places, Gunkaran feels F Bar will become a favourite for good. "We are not just promising a great partying experience, also the food that will match the quality that F Bar is known for."

In the fashion forest

Plenty of nice days are in store for you this season as 109°F brings to you its Black Forest collection for a fascinating fashionable look.

If you are too bored with flower patterns, and be colourful enough with trend of colour-block, it's time to unite with 109°F for black-white style that will bring you youthfulness.

This classical collection with the combination of two colours black and white from 109°F will add to your charm this season. Black Forest collection provides modern silhouettes and mixture of fabric choices that make this black and white fashion season's greatest trend.

From black and white dresses and tunics to exotic blouses and tops to demure printed jumpsuits, Black Forest from 109°F has everything the fashion conscious would want to indulge in.

Speaking about the collection, Radhesh Kagzi, president, 109°F, "Black and white trend is clean and simple; yet modern at the same time. The collection proves that black and white looks across categories will never go out of style. You can wear it in everything from skinny striped jeggings/leggings to a cocktail dress." — TNS

star track
Bhaag Arjun bhaag

Arjun Kapoor
fitness freak: Arjun Kapoor

We all know how Arjun Kapoor lost oodles of weight before he entered the show business some years back. However, when the actor heard the script of Gunday, he was thinking how he would do so much running that was required in the film.

In the earlier days of the shoot, when Ranveer and Arjun used to run together, Arjun realised how running was his shortcoming vis-à-vis Ranveer Singh who has always been an athlete.

Arjun Kapoor would start panting in the first minute of running itself. He surely did lose a lot of weight but physical fitness was something he worked on after taking up Gunday.

So, Arjun started training extensively to first start running for longer duration and once he achieved that, he started working on his performance while running as an actor.

On the last day of shoot, when they were doing a running sequence, Arjun overtook Ranveer Singh and felt very proud about it.

Arjun says, "Running in films is an art that needs to be learnt. On the last day of the shoot when I was able to run neck to neck with Ranveer Singh, I was happy that I had finally achieved something."

When Sallu was speechless!

Salman Khan and Aishwarya Rai's romance has always been an interesting subject for the cine-goers. The duo had a publicised break-up and ever since both avoids each other in events. Recently, when Salman Khan hosted the Star Guild Awards 2013, he was left speechless over Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's name.

At the award event, Salman did something similar like Karan Johar's chat show, Koffee With Karan and on the stage he invited Karan Johar on the hot seat and played the perfect host and grilled Karan Johar with some funny questions.

When Sallu asked Karan if he gets an opportunity to turn up to a woman, which Bolywood actress he would like to be. Karan Johar who has a great sense of humor and presence of mind wasted no time to reply, its Aishwarya. On hearing Karan's answer, Salman Khan asked why? But then again Karan left Sallu speechless when he replied "You are asking why?"

The audience broke into laughter on hearing the conversation between Karan Johar and Salman Khan. The superstar named his chat show, 'Sharbat with Salman' and both the celebrities had an interesting chat over tasty sharbat.

The award show was also highly talked about for Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan's hug. Second time after the Iftaar party, Salman and Shah Rukh hugged in presence of the huge audience.

What’s happening to Vidya?

Vidya Balan has been visiting a popular suburban hospital quite frequently, sometimes with her family members but the purpose of the visits has been kept under wraps.

No budging

Ajay Devgn and Akshay Kumar are refusing to budge from the June 6 date for the release of their movies Action Jackson and Holiday.

Shah Rukh to produce Marathi films

After having made blockbuster film Chennai Express, Bollywood filmmaker Rohit Shetty and actor Shah Rukh Khan are coming together again as they are going to produce Marathi films together.

It is said that Shah Rukh and Rohit will fund a total of six regional films under their joint banner. Rohit confirmed the news and said, "Yes, we are looking at producing Marathi films, but it is too early to talk about it as we are still working on things. A few friends from the Marathi film industry have already narrated their scripts to me. I liked couple of them and I look forward to producing these ventures."

Rohit was flying to South Africa for hosting Khatron Ke Khiladi when he confirmed the news. A source said that when Rohit discussed the project with SRK, he seemed interested. However, Rohit refused to dish out more details as he said that the project is in initial stage.

He further added, "I know a lot of people involved in Marathi films and I would like to participate in some way or the other. It will be good as regional cinema is very important for the state. It has to go side by side with Bollywood. It is important that I do something about it soon."

Shah Rukh, however, clarified that he won't be a part of the film as language might be a barrier to him. He will only produce the films. He said, "As an actor, I may not be able to participate as I don't know the language.”

Nargis fakhri and Ileana Dcruz Juicy advice

Nargis Fakhri and Ileana Dcruz have a good amount of skin show in Main Tera Hero. So Nargis did a juice cleanse for six days and lost 3 kg. Ileana also did the cleansing on her advice but could sustain only for a day.






bonding for a cause: Nargis fakhri and Ileana Dcruz

Conspicuous by absence

Bobby Deol and Sunny Deol chose to skip Ahana Deol's wedding. They had not attended Esha's wedding either. Bobby was in Dubai for Bollywood's celebrity T20 tournament and stayed back for a couple of days.

Bad record

Abhay Deol-starrer One By Two has bombed at the box office. Jai Ho has not broken any records but has collected more than Rs 100 crore.

Shahid defends Sonakshi

Shahid Kapoor and Sonakshi Sinha appeared together on Koffee with Karan at the latter's request. The duo is said to be dating each other. He even defended Sonakshi by taking a whip to ex-girlfriend Kareena Kapoor and said Sonakshi can be more than just a housewife. Kareena had earlier suggested 'housewife' as an alternative profession for Sonakshi on the show. To which, Sonakshi said Kareena will make a good gossip columnist.

Truly, madly, deeply in love

If eyewitnesses are to be believed, actors Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh are truly and deeply in love. They were reportedly inseparable at Ahana Deol's wedding as Ranveer was also seen following Deepika even to the loo.

chatter box
Comic caper

Model and actor Mayank Kalra, who has debuted in Sudhir Sharma's It's Complicated, is quite excited with the response that his character has received.

When asked what attracted him to take up the show, he says, "As I always wanted to do a youth-oriented show, it was something that appealed to me. Also in television, you hardly get to do a performance-oriented character in comedy. So, it was something that I was looking for."

About his character, he adds, "My character is Rocky. He is someone who is adorable and a stud until he opens his mouth. He is the Indian male version of an American blonde. I have witnessed a lot of people similar to him. It's exactly opposite to the real me. I am reminded of the title song of Sanjay Dutt's film Rocky. The constant joke on the set is Rocky Mera Naam."

Kunwar back on DID

Actor Kunwar Amarjeet Singh, who had started his career with Dance India Dance and made it to the semi-final, is back on the show this week. While from a dancerKunwar Amarjeet Singh Kunwar progressed towards acting with Dil Dosti Dance, he is still known to be an unbelievable package. We hear that the actor has been roped in to perform an underwater act with Swarali and the duo will be dancing on Zara Zara Mehakta Hai.

An elated Kunwar says, "It's a great feeling; it's like a homecoming. I do perform at a lot of places but till date DID stage gives me goose bumps."

Looks like Kunwar will be reliving a lot of his memories!

nice move: Kunwar Amarjeet Singh

Celeb trouble

The first episode of Sunil Grover's comedy show Mad In India has to be special and for that the makers got cricketer Yuvraj Singh on board, but days before shooting he had to opt out due to some other commitment. The makers are now trying to work out another popular non-film celebrity.

B-Town dreams

After showcasing his talent on television, Gurmeet Choudhary seems to be eyeing Bollywood. We have seen his dancing skills in shows like Nach Baliye 6 and Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 5 as well as his acting in many shows. He believes Hindi films are next for him!

Farhan to host KBC?

Buzz is that Farhan Akhtar, who has given the successful film Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, has been approached to host Kaun Banega Crorepati. Amitabh Bachchan has been hosting the same for six years, but perhaps the makers want to target the younger audiences now.

Moving along

In Madhubala—Ek Ishq Ek Junoon, a lot of changes have come about. Post Vivian Dsena's exit, now almost the entire family has been wiped out in a bomb blast.

Sikandar Kharbanda, who played the funny Sikki on the show, apparently didn't want to play dad to a grown up and so opted out of the show.

Real take

Sony TV will bring back their hit reality television show Entertainment Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega soon. It will make a comeback after two-and-a-half years and buzz is that judges Farah Khan as well as Anu Malik will return to the show. Auditions for the fifth season are currently on.

Together after years

Siddharth Kak and Renuka Shahane, who hosted TV show Surabhi in 1993, will now be back together once again to host a show titled Hunnarbaaz. Renuka recently tweeted "Coincidently, Surabhi started its telecast on the same date (February 9) but in 1991."

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: The temptation to help out a friend with a financial loan should be discussed with your partner first. Today you can become conscious of your projected fears and start letting go of negative patterns. Tarot message: Be articulate. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 32.

TAURUS: Your partner supports you. Do not allow yourself to be talked into an erratic move. It is the right time to purchase something that adds to the value of your house. Tarot message: Don't dismiss advice of youngsters. Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 52.

GEMINI: Do not try to hurry jobs that require meticulous handling. Arguments can arise with your mate or partner. Consult the experts when cash questions come up. Tarot message: Use your instinct to get into the top circle of power. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 64.

CANCER: You draw 'The Emperor', so the day promises all comforts. Spare time for family and children. It will be much easier for you to meet challenges today. Stay tuned in to the work at hand. Tarot message: Set events into motion. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 53.

LEO: An irritating co-worker can push you to your limits. Practice deep breathing and you can maintain your composure. A desire to retreat to the comfort of your own home can be overwhelming. Tarot message: Learn to accept responsibility for yourself and others. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 40.

VIRGO: The card 'The Moon' indicates an emotional setback. Stick to what you know and understand. Money problem will still prevail. Children: enjoy with your friends. Tarot message: Your determination to succeed will pay dividends. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 61.

LIBRA: At work, a colleague steers you in a new direction. Financial rewards will get delayed. A small celebration at home is likely. Professionals: you need a break. Tarot message: Work can pose minor difficulties, but don't worry. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 26.

SCORPIO: Get cracking early. What you need now is energy. You must push yourself harder. Be careful with money. This is not the right day for writing official letters. Tarot message: Plan your life better to avoid delays. Lucky colour: Mauve. Magic number: 47.

SAGITTARIUS: Your card "The Nine of Cups" reveals inner strength and enthusiasm. Guys: do not take the risk on road and drive carefully. Tarot message: Don't forsake a new learning opportunity because of pride. Lucky colour: Rainbow pastels. Magic number: 65.

CAPRICORN: Your card 'Page of Pentacles' promises a progressive day. Health problems can be satisfactorily handled. Personal plans are likely to progress without too much opposition. Tarot message: Emphasis on spiritual needs. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 50.

AQUARIUS: Business is likely between you and your associates. Long-term benefits can be gained. Attempts to improve your health will be successful. Your mind can wander on the job. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 62.

PISCES: Entrepreneurs will go through an anxious period. The married or those in love will find the day exciting. Students: success in competitive sports is assured. DO not borrow nor lend. Tarot message: Do not transact in uncertain matters. Lucky colour: Blue. Magic number: 45.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is February 6...

Be attentive and observe every situation seriously before acting on any issue. This year is not going to be too good. Therefore, it is necessary to think before you act. As you are ruled by Venus, you are optimistic, modest, focused, punctual, reliable and dependant. For financial gains, you will invest in real estate and the stock market. Make a concerted effort when dealing with a superior who pretends to be unaware of a certain situation, which is causing grief amongst co-workers. Do not invest in joint ventures and dubious financial schemes. You will be disappointed as recognition and rewards that you were expecting get postponed. Choose your words with care when interacting with important people.

Positive colours: White, Green, Cream.

Select days: Friday, Thursday, Tuesday.

Favourable numbers: 5, 6.

Gems recommended: Diamond, Emerald.

Charity on birthday: Donate yellow edible items to the needy or at any religious place today.

You share your birthday with Angad Singh Bedi (February 6, 1983, New Delhi), a cricketer for Delhi. Unable to replicate the success of his father, cricketer Bishan Singh Bedi, he began a career in modelling. He later participated in the show Khatron Ke Khiladi.





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